The day your child says she hates you, and every child will go through the phase, it kicks like a foot in the stomach.

You is kind. You is smart. You is important.

It can be really powerful to write something when youre sad.

The point is, I can’t tell you how to succeed. But I can tell you how not to: Give in to the shame of being rejected and put your manuscript—or painting, song, voice, dance moves, [insert passion here]—in the coffin that is your bedside drawer and close it for good. I guarantee you that it won’t take you anywhere. Or you could do what this writer did: Give in to your obsession instead.

Why don't we just build you an house outside Hilly?

Who knew heartbreak would be so goddamn hot.

At one O'Clock, Miss Celia comes in the kitchen and says she's ready for her first cooking lesson. She settles on a stool. She's wearing a tight red sweater and a red skirt and enough makeup to scare a hooker.