Writing a book feels a lot like pregnancy. I’m completely serious.
You have to admit the conception part is the most fun, aside from the beautiful blessing of holding that baby in your arms. Everything in between is a lot of dreaming and a whole ton of planning, prepping, and reining in the crazy.
But then, suddenly, you’re holding that beautiful work of yours in your arms and it’s perfect. You only pray people look at that precious bundle and think it’s as wonderful as you do. Surely yours won’t be one of those avoid-eye-contact ugly ones, right?
And while I’m working the analogy, let’s just acknowledge that publication is a lot like raising that baby.
In those early days, you’re showing off pictures and telling everyone who will listen until your family rolls their eyes and your friends start to avoid you. You’ve got those quiet moments where you’re frantically checking in to make sure there’s still signs of life. For a little while, there’s peace and just enjoying the wonder of it all.
Down the road, you may have corrections to make, little tweaks to ensure it grows up well. Eventually, you’re helping fix that outward appearance that’s become a little awkward but still wanting to fit in with peers. Siblings come along, and you’re doing the same for them, too.
And all the while, you’re working, loving, crying, reflecting, getting everyone where they need to be, still dreaming of a bright future, but exhausted. Rejoicing in triumphs and correcting the screw ups. Knowing more everyday and still nothing, all at the same time.
Yes, being an author is a whole lot like parenthood.
I could go on with the comparison, but I’ll stop here. Instead, I’m going to take my own proud momma moment and introduce you to my newest book baby, Whatever Comes Our Way. It’s now fully available on Amazon in eBook and paperback. And just so it’s big sister doesn’t get jealous, I’ll remind you that you can still get What Could Be free in eBook today, and only $2.99 after that. And don’t ask a mother to choose favorites. She usually can’t (even though, secretly, she’ll tell you that she’s a little enamored with the baby right now because it’s just so new and wonderful).
