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To be a writer, you have to have some pretty thick skin. Writing is an emotional business. These words, an article, a newsletter, a Web site all include my interpretation of facts, events or even observation. It's inherent in any written piece that the author leaves a trace of herself.

Editing is also an emotional business. Some people read my work and think I'm too showy. They request that "I write the way I talk." I use plenty of big words when I talk, and when I write. What exactly does that comment mean? I like use the f-word a lot when I talk. I can't include that ... can I?

Others think my writing is pretty good, but question my methodology. "Couldn't you get a quote from a pet psychologist who specializes in pigs in menopause?" Ummm... and where the hell would I find that person?

I have pretty thick skin. They are editing the work, not me. I'm part of my work, but it is not the sum total of who I am. I can handle this -- most of the time.

And then sometimes I get tired of being edited. This week at the part-time writing gig, someone voiced a concern a section of my cover story. In essence, the question was asked if I had properly attributed my work. Yes. I had paraphrased and re-written portions, but proper credit was given.

That answer did not satisfy, so you know what, kill the whole damn section, see if I care! Actually, I do care. I understand the concern, but I have been a working professional since 1996. That might make me somewhat experienced, no?

Before that I worked on my college paper, my high school paper and my junior high paper. Admittedly, not true industry experience, but still experience. I guess I had one of those moments where I just didn't want to be edited any more for a few days.

Needless to say, I was a little tense, so I did the only thing I know will calm my nerves -- surfed the Internet for porn. Luckily we have very little blocking and the world is full of perverts!