My schools were quite diverse - those who serve their country come from every race and religion - and so the military schools I attended were a wonderful melting pot.

In 2005, I had the great honor of playing Shailene Woodley's mother in 'Felicity: An American Girl Adventure.' I was immediately impressed by her work ethic, both on and off set.

Shakespeare set a lot of his dramas in a historical perspective or war perspective, or he would study what was going on at that time.

Sometimes I ride my bike to see the kids after a matinee and then ride back to do the show. That's the hard part, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

I call The National my family, and I'll be doing that as long as I want to.

My family was never cultural in that we never went to see plays, my mum wasn't very into films.

So I delegate a lot and I make my family come first, my husband and our kids.

Becoming a mom makes politics real. Whether it's education policies, health care policies, family leave - it informs your decision-making.