And when I started college, I think I was good at two things: arguing and asking questions.

In fact, my mom always told me because I was the daughter of an Army officer born overseas in Paris, France, that under the Constitution she believed that I could never run for president.

I also go on long walks with my dog, a golden retriever named Breeze-and I work out with weights at a health club a couple of times a week.

The fundamental difference between us and the terror network we fight is that we value every life.

We are all strong-willed, forceful personalities and the President encourages vigorous debate.

For the year after I left government service, I worked as a consultant to the Republican National Committee because the lawyers advised that was the proper way for me to comply with ethics regulations and continue to advise the President.

As a young girl I think I wanted to be a horse woman. I loved horses.