Have you noticed that, aside from babbling about writing projects, my web site has been relatively content-free lately? Are you wondering why I'm getting into this weird kick about "commitments?"

There are many reasons for that, but I guess it's time to 'fess up to the biggest reason of them all. I've been mum here on the website on pretty much the most important thing going on in my life, because I wasn't ready just yet to introduce this "new" factor into public discussion whilst I was in the middle of dealing with it. But it's hard to hide now:

Paulette and I are expecting our first baby this summer. In fact, the due date (I'm told that only four percent of births happen on the "due date") is July 4th.

Eight months into the pregnancy, and everything seems to be going smoothly (says the male portion of the team)... at least, as far as the baby's and mother's health are concerned.

Now, the fact that we're broke, and that one of our cars just died (permanently), and that my vertigo problems haven't gone away, and that working from home is about to get *much* more complicated, well... maybe "smooth" isn't the most appropriate term to describe the situation at Casa Rousselle.

Nonetheless, balancing baby, finances, "job" career, writing career, personal commitments, spiritual and intellectual health, and physical health -- not to mention the all-important Relationship between Paulette and me -- should make for interesting times.

I'm looking forward to being a Dad.