Thesis writing is like giving birth

Dramatic post title. Yes, I admit it is but writing my dissertation has felt comparable to one metaphor: childbirth. I have nurtured and agonised over this document for 9 months or more and now the final stages of labour are upon me. It is like being in a black space where the only light and focus is that distant moment when the thing is finished and handed in. It has consumed me. I have been dreaming about different phrases and terminology. My children think I am a grumpy, desk bound misery. This last push is the most painful but then it will be finished and what will I have? Just a certificate. But also another thing ticked off on my list of life challenges. I am going to celebrate loudly on Thursday!