I've gotten to do a lot of stuff, traveled, worked hard at my career.

My husband and I are both proud public school graduates.

I'm at the age most people are sending their kids off to college.

It's very different to have this kid that I'm truly responsible for.

I think both of my parents are unique in the way they don't live their lives as celebrities. They're both artists, first and foremost. My mom lives a very private life. So does my father. You don't really see them in the tabloids or anything like that. I think that's definitely a decision you can make.

My cousin in Louisiana started a small company with a little savings, renovating houses. A single mom, she saved enough to buy a home and provide child care for her son. When the economy went belly up, so did her company. She was forced to sell her home and move in with her parents.

I can understand why immigrants would want to bring the rest of their extended family here, including older ones who will benefit from our health-care system.

Parents must lead by example. Don't use the cliche; do as I say and not as I do. We are our children's first and most important role models.