One thing to say about doing maintenance in space - it is difficult because the parts and pieces float away. You end up using a lot of tape and Velcro to make sure things stay put.

I grew up as a swimmer, speaking of sports; I spent a lot of time before school and after school swimming.

I will absolutely admit that the feel and smell of sea spray and wind on my face will be very welcome. I will be happy to come back to Earth, our beautiful planet, when it is time.

Once you get into the spacecraft, you're on your way, you've got a mission, you're focused, and it's really exciting.

All of us who are flying on international space stations speak some Russian and speak some English. Both the languages are needed to fly in a Russian spacecraft and communicate with your colleagues.