I feel about my dogs now, and all the dogs I had prior to this, the way I feel about children—they are that important to me. When I have lost a dog I have gone into a mourning period that lasted for months.

I still feel as if I weren't a good enough mother. I didn't break any rules. I didn't cause my son any pain. But I did bring to my life some of my father, who was very controlling and very remote. I was working a lot. I wasn't there enough.

Chronic disease like a troublesome relative is something you can learn to manage but never quite escape.

When the doctor said I had diabetes, I conjured images of languishing on a chaise longue nibbling chocolates. I have no idea why I thought this.

There are certain things about me that I will never tell to anyone because I am a very private person. But basically, what you see is who I am. I'm independent, I do like to be liked, I do look for the good side of life and people. I'm positive, I'm disciplined, I like my life in order, and I'm neat as a pin.

I don't know how to do the other, so I won't even consider television until the audience's taste changes.

I go to an analyst not because I need to but because I choose to and maybe that's the difference. I don't think I have any huge neurosis, but I have questions for which I seek if not answers at least a guidance toward the answers.