Writing a book is like being pregnant.

I’m the first one to say that pregnancy is MUCH more difficult than writing – I say that not because it’s politically correct but because I believe it. I’ve seen two babies being born and it’s a good thing the guys aren’t the ones shouldering THAT responsibility. Still, there are several similarities between pregnancy and my current occupation of rewriting my complete book, the book I thought was finished last November.

I feel like I’m 9 months pregnant. I know there’s something really amazing growing inside me and I just want the thing to come out.

The exact moment of a baby’s conception is fun!  It may have seemed like a great idea at the time, but months later the woman balks at the enormity of the undertaking and wonders if she even likes children. When I conceived my book, I had no idea that all the fun stuff was also right at the beginning. After that it’s just editing and difficulties and frustration. Why did I think I would like writing?

Both types of conception usually get going around the fourth glass of wine.

A guy should never ask a woman if she’s pregnant. Because if she isn’t, watch out. Don’t ask me why it’s taking me so long to finish my book. I can be just as testy.

A woman in pregancy’s later stages is asked every day on the telephone if she’s had the baby yet. “Of COURSE I haven’t had it yet. Don’t you think I’d call my own mother if I had a baby?” Don’t ask me if I’ve finished my book yet. Believe me, if I had, you’d know. I would have twisted your arm to buy one already.

The birth of a child and the birth of a book, while not equal in importance or energy required, are both beautiful events (and a great relief!).