I read that when cats are cuddling and kneading you, and you think it's cute, they're really just checking your vitals for weak spots.

I could never have dreamed the life I lead. Given where I started, it's remarkable to me the constant adventure that my life has become.

Playing the ukulele and singing is a fantastic stress reliever. So is cleaning! Scrubbing away at the dirt helps clear my mind as well.

I have to say, as a young woman of color, and this may sound controversial, in sci-fi, anything is possible. In sci-fi I can belong to the military. In sci-fi I can have an interracial love affair; I can be a revolutionary.

No matter what is going on around or within you, everything at some point must change. It's harder to accept when things are great - and a source of strength when change is what you need. Either way, it reminds me to try my best to be fully present in every moment.

My mom is my best friend and always offers me great perspective and reminds me to be compassionate to myself in moments when I feel low.

Of course I'm totally biased, but I think my mom is an amazing educator. She continues to work tirelessly for the kids in her classes, year after year - despite the innumerable obstacles she faces. She is a huge inspiration to me.