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Tomorrow is Departure Day, thus far the hottest day of the year. But more importantly it is my daughter's birthday. For those of you who have not given birth it's at once painful and euphoric. One could say completing a book is much like labor and delivery; however, my book's gestation has been significantly longer than nine months.

Conversely, one could say a daughter (or son) is a work-in-progress like an author's book. Both require a mother to nurture, protect, and love her unconditionally. For example, whenever my protagonist doesn't behave do I punish her? Of course not. Rather, I succumb to her wants and adjust accordingly. I give her unconditional love, protect her from literary rejection, and bask in the sunshine of her accomplishments.

Coincidence? Not exactly. July 2nd is a special day for me, and when given the option to start my Dorland Residency that day I said yes. 7/2 portends well, and based on tomorrow's predicted temperature may again prove at once painful and euphoric.

Onward!