Why Blog?

Why blog?  I have been asking myself this question ever since I wrote my first blog yesterday.  Why am I blogging?  Why should you read it?


I have two answers to both questions, but my responses elicit more questions.  The idea of creating a blog truly came from the Writer's Digest website.  An article said that it is easier for new authors to get published if she had a "platform" prior to publication.  The second answer is that I thought blogging would help me have more discipline with my writing.


The new question is did I write a book and why?


Yes, I wrote a book called (for now) FIVE STRANDS OF HOPE.  It is about my fertility journey and my scary triplet pregnancy.  I was told to abort the triplet pregnancy at 21 weeks, when my cervix was 75% effaced.  However, over the next week, my cervix shortened to five millimeters or the width of five strands of hair (hence, my new book title) and the only thing I had was hope.


I wrote the book for two primary reasons.  First, I want my kids to know their journey.  How much their father and I wanted them, all that my family did to make it possible and the miraculous doctors that didn't give up on them.  Second, and this is where you come in, I want other women who are struggling with infertility or a difficult pregnancy, not to lose hope.  I scoured the Internet in search of hope.  I read countless message board and forums.  The Incompetent Cervix Forum was invaluable.


Ultimately, I'd like help to create more dialog among women.  I believe that there are many women walking around carrying the pain of infertility, miscarriages, stillbirths and other related events.  As a society, rape used to be hush hush, but now women and even men have to courage to share their stories.  Let's share our stories and create hope and support for each other.  


Furthermore, I would like you to read my blog, because I have decided to try to monetize it (it's as easy as clicking a button) and I am going to give 25% of any proceeds I earn to the March of Dimes.  I memorized its website while I was on bed rest for the last 14 weeks of my pregnancy.  I will donate 25% in honor of the quadruplet that I lost at 11 weeks. 


On May 30th, the triplets' 3rd birthday, I will be publishing my book in the e-book format on Kindle.  I am hoping to generate enough sales that a traditional publishing house (or agent) will pick up my book.   I have my work cut out for me, but I'm up for the challenge.  I did manage to carry my triplets long enough for them to be born healthy!


I would love to hear your stories,
Laura


P.S.  I couldn't find the picture that I wanted to upload, so I chose this one.  My husband, Brian, took it the day before I had the triplets.