My Strongest Supporter
Posted by Tawny Weber in Tawny Weber, tags: Brenda Chin, first sale
Since this is my first post on the new blog and the theme this month seems to be firsts, I thought I’d share one of my favorite first stories. And we also have a mini-theme going about Brenda, it fits in perfectly!! You see, my husband is crazy about my editor. Seriously.
Now, keep in mind that my husband is notoriously easy. All it takes is a good meal and he’s your best friend. Make his wife happy on top of that meal? There you go – absolute devotion.
Here’s the story: A few years back my husband got to meet Brenda Chin and a few Blaze authors at a dinner we’d attended at a small regional conference. He was so impressed. Even though he was 100% behind my writing dream, he’d never realized how cool it would be. There he was, at dinner with writer’s whose books stacked the bookcases at home. He had a great time. With the people, definitely –but also with the fabulous food 
All he could talk about afterward was what a great deal it would be if were eventually able to write for Brenda and for Blaze.
About six weeks later, I sold my first book! After we’d finished celebrating, I figured he’d go back to his happy but quiet (quite being the key word here) support of my writing career. But noooo, he’s apparently on Brenda’s payroll now. Right after my sale, I broke my foot. So there I am with my very first broken bone and my very first revision deadline. My husband was a doll, setting up a comfy writing place on the couch, my broken foot elevated, my glass of iced tea kept full. Sweet, right? Except the man wouldn’t let me off the couch or give me my pain pills until I’d finished my pages each day… telling me that he promised Brenda I’d have the revisions in on time and hey, hadn’t that been a great dinner?!
Every once in awhile we get to reminiscing. I’ll say something like, “Remember my first sale? Wasn’t that so freaking amazing?” And he’ll respond with a huge, beatific smile and say “Yeah, I remember the barbeque. By the way, shouldn’t you be writing?” :-S
So this brings me to my question – As you chase your dreams in life, who is your biggest supporter… and are they in it for you? Or just the good food?
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LOL! What a sweet and fun story. Love it!
I’d have to say my friends are my biggest supporters right there along with my husband. They’re definitely in it for me (although my good food does help *G*). Its a wonderful thing in life to feel as if you have your own cheerleading section. We all need that. Someone to cry to when we’re in a rough spot and to celebrate with when we have victories, even if they’re small ones.
Hey Kim
GREAT term – your own cheerleading section. Thats the perfect description, too, isn’t it?! I think its often that team, that sense of support, that keeps us going during those rough spots.
Hi Tawny
Aren’t husbands just the best I gotta say mine always supports me in anything I want to do like when I said I wanted to go the Aust Romance Readers Convention in Melbourne in Feb not a problem he said we can drive down and you can go to all of the events and I will keep myself busy but I also gotta say he loves his food as well cook him a great meal and he will be your friend for life LOL
Have Fun
Helen
LOL – That whole ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’ with a twist, huh, Helen? Its the way to his supporting anything you want to do!
What a sweetie your hubby is
Great story, Tawny! I’d have to say my two biggest supporters are my husband (and he hasn’t experienced any great food as a result of my writing yet!!!) and my critique partner. This would be a very difficult, lonely journey without them!
Devon
Devon *waving* hey
You’re right- writing is such a lonely thing in a lot of ways, but having the support team its so much easier. And a great CP? Worth her weight in gold!!
I’m ROFL Tawny – partly because I was there during that momentous occasion and partly because I know your hubby so well. I can picture his grin with that barbecue comment.
I’m lucky enough to have a bunch of supporters – with my lovely hubby at the top of the list. I don’t know that he’s got great meals out of his support, but since he comes with me to conference (he does his own thing, but is there to support me), he has been offered a lap-dance and smothered with hugs and kisses by my friends. LOL.
I also have my little gang of what I call ‘bully girls’ who have supported me from the beginning and who keep my nose to the grindstone (*cough* Tawny *cough*). I wouldn’t have achieved what I have without them. I don’t think they’re in it for the food either. Though some of them do like English chocolate. Or the drink. But, oh my, we do we have a good time
so I guess they’re in it for the giggles.
Anna, then you can picture his nagging… I mean, absolute support of all deadlines afterward, huh?
Your hubby is such a doll and the perfect supporter! And, now that you mention it, a lot of fun to kiss
I don’t think I’m really a ‘bully’ tho… more like a nag *g* I get it from James. And my guess? They’re in it for the love (and then the chocolate!!)
That is absolutely funny! (Well, not the broken foot–ouch!!!)–but I can just see him dangling the pain meds in front of you. “Come on, honey, four more pages!”
I hear wonderful things about Brenda all over the internet. Hey, as long as you keep writing, I’m happy!
Maybe Harlequin should start offering BBQ incentives…
LOL Gillian – Brenda is amazing. Every wonderful thing you’ve heard? Its probably true. And that little scenario- closer than you think
He was all about “Well, Brenda said…”
That is an awesome first sale story! Your husband sounds like a real sweetheart. I say, if they ever clone humans, they should start with him so every girl can have one! For me, my biggest supporter is my older daughter. She is like my own personal cheering section, always encouraging, always willing to listen as I bounce new ideas off of her. My younger daughter reluctantly goes along with it, but just until it’s time for her anime to start, then I lose her! My mother is also there for me. I remember doing a craft fair with her after my first book was published and she spent more time bragging about the book to her friends who stopped by than selling the stuff she made for the fair. I have a pretty wonderful family.
Margay
Margay, there are days I’d happily give him away
Of course, not many, and I’d always want him back LOL. But he is a sweetie. Its so awesome that your family is there for you like that (LOL that your mom was talking you up so nicely at the fair). Its a lot easier to shoot for the dreams if the people in your day to day believe you’ll reach them, isn’t it?!
LOL Tawny ! Seeing that I’m absolutely crazeee about your books, I have to be on their side :-D, whatever it takes to keep you writing those awesome books ! LOL My biggest supporters are definitely husband, and my kids, in whatever I do(or try)
!
Hi Petro
Thank you!! You know, I honestly don’t think I’d get quite as enthusiastic of support if my husband didn’t think my editor was so great LOL.
I’m glad your husband and kids are so strongly there in your corner. You deserve all that support!!
I so love this story! Your guy is a total sweetheart – even if he did withhold your pain meds until your pages were done
My biggest supporter is definitely my husband. Everywhere we go, he hands out my bookmarks and tells people I have a book out *g*
And I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have you, Tawny! I know you’re not in it for the good food since I’ve never fed you. But I could be talked into bringing some chocolate pudding cake to DC (H)
Chocolate pudding cake? Really? YES!! Thank you, Beth
And you know I feel exactly the same about you. You are the most amazing CP and whip cracker! Although I know YOU would have let me have my pain meds LOL.
Your hubby is such a sweetheart – and so proud of you. A definite winner!
Hi Tawny,
Love your books and great hubby story. My hubby is my staunch supporter and actually sees that I eat. When I’m locked away writing, a chicken caesar salad (my very favorite) or a chicken finger plate will suddenly appear. Gotta love a man who leaves me to write and feeds me too.
Thank you, Rebecca
Oh man, your hubby just won Hubby of the Year, hands down! He feeds YOU?!?! WOW!!! Now that’s a real sweetheart!!! (*)
My biggest supporter has always been my husband too, but not for the food. I rarely cook since being published! :-O
YAY Kiki
Glad your hubby is so supportive (and he’s not in it for the food?! Niiiiice!)
What a sweet story, Tawny! Sounds like you’ve got a great man!
My biggest supporter is hands down my best ‘net friend and CP. While my hubby can have his moments, he just doesn’t “get” the whole writing gig like my CP does. I *think* that he’ll come around eventually, but right now I’d be lost without Moira. :P
Sally, CPs rock, huh? I don’t know where I’d be without mine –she keeps me motivated and writing in ways that all the husbandly nagging in the world couldn’t do.
I’ll admit, up until being fed barbeque, my husband’s support was more of a ‘sure sweetie, anything you want” thing. He wasn’t actively focused on it until then. So they do come around
Great story! I have to admit that Brenda is one of my dream editors. *sigh*
Husband is a huge supporter of mine. As hard as I find writing, I cannot imagine how much harder it’d be if he were not in my corner. I totally (U) him
Hey Cyndi! Brenda was always my dream editor, too. She’s the first editor I’d queried and is incredible to work with. Fingers crossed that you get to work with her!
I’m so glad your hubby is there in your corner!!!!
Great story! I remember once being stressed and fearing I’d taken on too much. I was in a rant, and at one point said, “I’m seriously thinking about quitting.” My son replies, “Mom! You can’t quit writing! I totally brag to all my friends about it!”
Definitely, hubby and son. It’s why they’re dedicated in every book I write.
Awwww, Lori. Thats so sweet!!!! (L) Your son sounds like a total doll. LOL that you’re his bragging card, too.
I’m glad he talked you down – you definitely need to keep writing!!
Hi Tawny! For those of you who don’t know, Tawny is my hero (heroine?). I just LOVE her books. Smart, sexy, fun, great strong leading ladies, hot guys…Tawny does it all.
And I love to hear that her husband is behind it all the way. Makes my heart warm and fuzzy.
I must agree, my husband is the same way. He’s an absolute treasure. From day one, he’s been behind my writing, even when it means he’s stuck with our two little ones, or he’s got to sacrifice something he wanted to do on the weekends so I could have some time to write. He also reads all my stuff, and gives great feedback. I love having the male perspective, and he definitely lets me know when I’ve got it all wrong.
He’s also available for a little blocking, if you know what I mean. LOL. Back when I wrote Regency, he was even available for a little sword fighting, just to see if what I was writing made sense!
(No, Tawny, I meant actual swords. Rapiers. Sheesh!)
A little thrust and parry, Kirsten? (sorry, I couldn’t resist *g*) I hear romance husbands are always up for the… what’d you call it? Blocking? Yeah, that *beg*
(H)
You’re such a sweetie
Thank you for the kind words!! and I adore your husband already… I mean a guy whose that into supporting his awesome wife is definitely a treasure.
Love your hubby story, Tawny, and I’m right there with you. I wouldn’t be doing this at all if it weren’t for the constant support from my husband, who provides everything from simple moral support to brainstorming with me, reading chapters when I’m truly stuck (he’s an insanely tough reader, being a technical editor himself), and just. . .everything. Knowing when to make me take a break, knowing when to help me focus — oh, and there’s that little bit of him working a full-time job, and usually doing adjunct teaching in addition to that to pay the bills while I build this career. I’m fortunate to have my family behind me as well… they read all of my books, always love discussing writing… it really helps. Definitely the bedrock of everything I do as a writer.
On top of that, I have to also credit my agent, Natasha, who has been a huge source of support and encouragement in pushing me past my comfort zone and helping me push myself to do things I wasn’t sure I could do. She can also be incredibly tough (what is this theme in my life of having people who can dole out the tough love? LOL). But I wouldn’t be doing a lot of the work I’ve been doing without her.
Last, but never least, are my editors. Birgit, for the first 4 years, who was a tremendous well of support, friendship, and motivation, and now Kathryn Lye — we’re just getting to know each other, but she definitely hits the right motivational keys for me. I’m loving the work we’re doing together. Brenda, of course, is always there, cheering us all on. Or busting our butts, as needed (see, there it is again, the tough love).
And my pals at Cigars, all of the writer friends who keep me going (like you!). Dee Tenorio, Sarah Mayberry, Jeannie Watt in particular. Sorry this was so long, but I find the longer we’re in this, the more people we have to thank!
Sam
LOL Sam, thank away!!! I’m finding the tough love aspect of this interesting
I remember when I wrote my first dedication, it was sooo long. I told Brenda, Three Golden Heart finals, no win… I had a lot of built up thanks to get out!
Like you, I am so grateful to the editorial team – heck, to everyone at Harlequin. Its such a great place to write for. And the friends along the way? Priceless
Hi Tawny!
That was a great story – sounds like it should be in one of your great books!
I’d have to say my husband and my kids are my greatest supporters. They sometimes believe in me more than I do. My youngest daughter is quite the critic, and both my girls read romance, so it’s very helpful. My husband loves it when I read the sex scenes! At first I wasn’t so sure about it – I was nervous like a young bride, but it was really fun.
I also have to say that writers like you and so many others I have met at meetings and conferences are also so supportive. You guys are really generous with your time and good wishes. It really helps to boost the confidence.
Romance writers that I’ve met, in general, are just about the best people on the planet.
Keep writing, Tawny. We love it!
Thanks, Sharon
You’re right, the romance community is amazing. I’ve been so lucky to have met and had advice, support or just welcoming smiles from so many authors –especially here at Blaze. Its so cool, especially when you’re a mondo huge fan like I was.
I think its so cool that you’re reading your scenes (especially the hot ones) to your husband. Now that’s support *g* and that your girls are already romance readers gives you an awesome source for beta and CP reading, huh?
lol this is the cutest post, Tawny. Haha – at least he helps make sure you meet your deadline?
Helps, nags, pushes… they’re so close to the same, Lime
Ahh, Tawny! What a sweetie! That’s a great story.
My dh is my biggest supporter too. He’s so wonderful. My kids were still little when I started writing and I had a hard time *making* the time to write, because the sight of Mommy sitting still at the computer was an open invitation! Suddenly they were starving or needed to play a board game or had an invisible boo boo!
My dh bought me an outdoor shed, spent months drywalling, painting, etc and now it’s my office! And the kids aren’t allowed in! And he waves my bookmarks all around his office, encouraging folks to buy my books.
He so rocks!
Oh Deb, he built you your own writing retreat?!?! I think I love him! Thats so cool. Which means when you were tucked away writing, he was on daddy duty, too. What a doll! And the results are your awesome books, so I’d say he’s done well LOL.
My greatest supporters, Tawny, I met through RWA – my critique partners, Desirae King and Kathy Farrell. They keep pushing me for higher and hgher quality in my manuscripts.
My greatest supporters, Tawny, I met through RWA – my critique partners, Desirae King and Kathy Farrell. They keep pushing me for higher and higher quality in my manuscripts.
JoAnn
YES, RWA and the local chapters are awesome, aren’t they?!
Wow, what a hot blog!! Great post, Tawny!!! James is such a total sweetheart. (L) Give that man a hug for me
He’s a real conference hero, always there to zip up a dress, hold a purse, snap a picture *g*
My biggest supporter has to be my mom—she’s a huge romance reader and when I announced I was trying to write a romance novel she eagerly took my partial, then showed up at my front door in tears, saying, “I didn’t know you were Danielle Steele!” Every sell and new cover, she’s at my door with campaign and chocolate cake (*) She’s my champion of promo, beading THOUSANDS of bookmarks for me. Last year I brought her to National and she had an amazing time
Thanks for sharing those fun (hugs on bone break though
) memories, Tawny!!
STACEY!!!! Hey you climbed out of the cave to visit- you rock!!!
Your mom is the sweetest lady in the world! I adore her
I remember your first sale and how she brought you a party – what incredible support!!
And you know, its because of friends like you that James loves conferences so much (well, that and hopes of more food). Just seeing what fabulous people I get to hang out with makes him that much more encouraging.
I will hug him in your name
The other day I was catching up with TV stuff on the DVR. I needed a serious brain break. My husband came downstairs and looked at the clock, then at me and said, “shouldn’t you still be writing? It’s only 4.” LOL. Part of me wanted to scream, “I”ve been writing for six hours straight.” But I didn’t. He equates me at the computer with success. And sometimes I need someone to say, “Should you be writing?”
LOL Candace! I hear you. Whenever I’m watching TV (which was blessedly rare until *someone* got me hooked on Castle) my husband would ask what kind of problem I was having with the story.
Its cool that they get our process and are there to push (gently, sometimes *g*) isn’t it?!
The other day I was catching up with TV stuff on the DVR. I needed a serious brain break. My husband came downstairs and looked at the clock, then at me and said, “shouldn’t you still be writing? It’s only 4.” LOL. Part of me wanted to scream, “I”ve been writing for six hours straight.” But I didn’t. He equates me at the computer with success. And there really are days when I need someone to say, “Shouldn’t you be writing?”
Aww, now that’s romance for you. I found out years after my divorce that my ex thought writing was ‘stupid’. I never wrote when he was around. Now, years and years later, I’m working towards my dream. I don’t have anyone around me to support me – no one ‘gets’ it. They wish me luck, but I can’t talk to them about writing. But I do post on eHarl on the Supers thread and have gotten some boosts of confidence from writers there and from writers I met a local conference when I see them at a signing.
Grrrr on your ex, Marcie. It’s hard to write around someone with that kind of attitude, isn’t it?!
Do you belong to RWA or have a local chapter? Those are usually fabulous sources of support, as is eHarlequin. eHQ was one of my favorite haunts when I started writing, they are so great there.
Thanks for the great blog Tawny. My husband’s been a huge supporter, but sometimes I think it’s hard for him to understand how important it is to me since he doesn’t write. I’ve always gotten tons of support from my critique group and RWA chapter. We take the love where we can get it (L)
Jennifer… get him food. Really *g* I don’t think most non-writers really ‘get it’ but if you give them some really delicious incentive, they’re a lot more able to pretend they get it LOL
Great post, Tawny. Withholding pain meds–now that’s a company man. Seriously, he sounds like a total sweetheart. And I concur: Brenda is a total dream editor, one of the best in the biz, quite possibly “the” best. She’s totally ruined me for others.
Company man… LOL Hope, he’ll like that!
I totally agree about Brenda being the best. I can’t imagine writing for anyone else.
Your hubby sounds like a sweetie; even if he did hold out on the pain meds until you completed your page count for the day.
My hubby is the only support I get on the home front. He surprised me a few weeks ago when he told me to stop doing so much for others and do more for myself. I almost fainted. Now he’s talking about remodeling one of the bedrooms into a home office. Or maybe he’s just tired of hearing me complain about how I never have time or my own space to write!
Oooh, your own space, Sherry? NIIIIICE. Your husband sounds great!! What wonderful support (especially the home office part.)
I have the support of my friends. It is great to have some one encourage you when you are down.
flip, friends are definitely the best
Hey Tawny! Looking forward to Going Down Hard and Sierra’s story. Even after reading Coming on Strong, when you were on my blog, I remember and like Sierra. A strong woman and I’m rather fond of strong women who know what they want and go after it.
My husband was so-so about supporting my writing in the beginning–so long as he wasn’t greatly inconvenienced, typical man, but lets say he is much more supportive now. “Leave mom alone, she’s writing.”
My biggest supporters are three girl-friends, all writers, 2 published and lord, they ride me, sheesh. You need to do this, how many chapters have your done? How’s the revisions and editing going. I just had surgery on my knee, my friend Judi, “you know, you can prop up that leg and still write…” God bless girlfriends!
Wish you the best with Going down Hard, Tawny.
Hey Sia
Thanks so much!! I had a great time visiting your blog – you’re an awesome hostess. i hope you enjoy Going Down Hard, and Sierra – she is strong and was a lot of fun to write.
LOL on the manly support. It’s all about the hook, isn’t it?! But girlfriends… they are just there, without hooks. I have to laugh, though. Your friend Judi’s comments sound like my husbands when I broke my foot. “Hey, a few more pillows and you can write just fine. Get to it.”
Tawny, my sweet! Good thing I didn’t have coffee in my mouth or I’d have snorted it all over my laptop and had two compters on the fritz. WONderful story about your hubby and first revision deadline!
My hubby and friends and family in general are supportive, and I know I’m lucky!
Light,
Nancy Haddock
Oops, Nancy! Sorry about the potential screen damage
And hugs on the computer woes. There’s nothing that sends a chill down a writer’s spine than that, is there? At least it does mine.
Yay on the support! Your books rock, and I’m so glad you have a solid group there to help you celebrate that *g*
First on the list would have to be my husband. I’m blessed with a man who actually reads my work — which, I’ve come to find, is somewhat rare with romance writers. And he makes useful, intelligent suggestions that have made my work better!
My kids, I suspect, might be in it for the food. But I still remember the hug my son (then 8 years old) gave me the first time I had a book rejected.
My cp comes right after my family. She “gets” me, and the whole writing experience, in a way that they can’t, since we’re in the trenches together. And I don’t even have to feed her!
That is rare, Sierra
You have a great man there. LOL on the kids and the food. Mine are all about the presents. I told them for years, “when mommy sells a book, you’ll get a really cool present.” But there’s nothing like those sweet hugs, huh?
You know, now that you mention it, I’ve only fed my CP once. I’m glad with CP’s its all about the writing LOL.
Hi Tawny,
I’d say my family and friends for sure. Even if they don’t always “understand,” they support, and that makes me keep going even when I’m feeling down. Great blog!
Hi Virna!! You know, sometimes I think the support *without* understanding is even more important.
Whoohoo, Tawny! You are rockin’ the shelves. Just got your latest…love these back to back releases. Ahhhh, more Weber. (H)
As to support, I gotta say the hubby is tops. Mine, that is. (Y) My boys too, but they’re a bit young (8&4) to do “real” promo. My sister’s right there at the top as well. What would we do w/o them? Oh, and the Romance Bandits. Sheesh! They are the BEST! (F) Roses, all of them.
Now, on to serious matters…Anna, you’re bringin chocolate? I’m there. Beth! My hero! Pudding cake? Seriously? Where do I sign up. (C)
Deb, I’d love to have an office like yours. My DH says he’s better at numbers than hammers, so no office, but know that I’m jealous of your space! Candace, my DH does that too. “Isn’t this your writing time? You can do email later….” Grins.
Hugs to James, Tawny!
Hey there, Jeanne!!!
It sounds like you have a fab support group – especially those Bandits *g* Gotta love ‘em!
I laughed at the part where your boys are a bit young for major promo. My daughter had just turned 8 when my first book hit the shelves. We were in the bookstore and she saw it before anyone else and yelled, there at the top of her lungs, “Mom, look, thats you. Your book!!” Loud counts as promo, right?
btw, does this mean I have to share Beth’s pudding cake?
Wow, Tawny, your hubby sounds wonderful.
My guy is supportive in that he doesn’t sneer and tell me to go get a real job, although I think he wishes I had a more conventional career that had a steady–and bigger–income. But he does brag about me to his coworkers and I actually credit him for my refusal to quit before I published. He tends to be the realist in the family, and I’m the dreamer. One day I was talking to him about something I had learned at a recent RWA meeting–the craft of writing, or something–and he got this condescending look on his face like he was trying to break it to me gently and said, “You DO realize the chances of you ever really getting published are not very good, right?”
Well, that lit a fire under my butt. I was determined to prove him wrong.
Man, I never realized what a rebel heart I had until then. (H)
Viva La Rebellion!!!! Sometimes that balance of a dreamer and a realist is a good thing. Sometimes *g* GO you, Jillian, for proving that your dream was going to come true–and so well, too
Q? Barbecue? Did someone say Q? I HUNTED THE ENTIRE SOUTH FOR GOOD Q THIS WEEKEND. And I did not find it.
All of them were closed. I was hopelessly depressed. ;-(
You see… there is a formula which tells you the quality of the Q. The distance south of the Mason-Dixon line, and the cuteness of the pig on the sign are the best indicators of quality Q. This formula has never steered me wrong.
But, now I’m learning that there may be other sources of quality Q? Really? :-P
I’m developing a diabolical plan here. I must convince my wife to start writing Blaze. And, if she does that, we’ll get an editor that makes quality Q, right? Is this how it works?
Because… I … I can find a way to get her to write. I am not above whining like a lost puppy. Not when it comes to Q. I could even do the yard work. Or maybe finish out the basement like she’s been asking me to do for the past few years. I will go to extraordinary lengths for quality Q. And now I know how simple it can be! I just have to convince my wife to devote hundreds or thousands of hours to writing Blaze!
Awesome.
I think this is a good plan. Thank you so much!
ROFLMAO!! P226, you always make me laugh. I can’t personally attest to the wonderfulness of the Q, given that I’m actually a vegetarian, but hubby swore it was the best he’d ever had. But… he probably hasn’t been south of the Mason-Dixon line since he was in the Army, so take that for what it’s worth.
Now, the idea of encouraging your wife to write for Blaze… Yes!!!! Q aside, the basement definitely should be finished so she can explore that idea, huh? (H)
Hi, Tawny! That’s a great story about your husband. What a champion! What a supporter! However, I think withholding pain meds is grounds for spousal abuse LOL.
My very best supporters are my daughters, particularly my #1. She’s my first reader and is unfailingly honest and supportive!
LOL Jo, he brought enough chocolate to mitigate any abuse claims
You have such wonderful relationships with your kids- that support is wonderful. I love that your daughter is your first reader.
Great story…Great husband! For me, it’s my hubby and children. The sibs don’t even ask how it’s going…don’t buy my books, either.
But my husband reminds me to stay fit, eat right and stay healthy b/c that’s the only way I’ll be able to keep doing what I love.
I got a rejection when my girls were little and one of them patted my cheek at bedtime and told me not to worry, that I was a good writer. “You just have to try harder, Mommy.”
The older told me that I was her hero b/c I never give up. (this was a school assignment)
I had no choice but to keep writing. With impressionable girls to raise, what message would I send if I quit just b/c it was difficult?
(Mind you, these same girls would lay bets on whether I was dressed or not on their way home from school…ask if I’m in my pjs now)(O)
What a great launch month this has been for our blog!
Bonnie
Oh Bonnie!!! That you are your daughters’ hero! Man, that’s so sweet!! Your girls sound precious and what a wonderful lesson you’ve shared with them about perseverance and chasing your dream.
and hey – pj’s are a necessary job perk.
Great first story, Tawny.
I don’t call my husband my greatest supporter, but my greatest nagger. Invariably, he’ll peek into the office and catch me on email. He’ll say, You’ll never finish that book doing email. Or he’ll say, Shouldn’t you be writing? lol
He really is my greatest supporter. Smile. He’s the one who started me on the path of writing.
Sandy
*sigh* What? Email won’t get the book written?! I hate that little truism. But… he’s right, huh? Your husband sounds like a great supporter and a wonderful nag
I’ll chime in with another husband vote! Mine makes it possible for me to work full-time on my dream of writing. Even better, he’s never said, “Where’s dinner?” Or “Don’t write that sexy stuff.” Or “You know, you made money when you were a consultant…go back to that so I can buy a boat/car/motorcycle.” He knows what GMC is and why it matters. He just wants to know why I can’t deduct shoes as a business expense when I buy them to celebrate sales.
I also throw in a big Oh yeah! to my local RWA chapter, the Prairieland Romance Writers. We’re a small chapter but someone’s always available for advice, encouragement, brainstorming or just listening. That’s been such a wonderful gift!
GREAT supportive husband, and ROFL about the shoes, Anne. I do the exact same thing – a pair for every sale. Its fun, huh?
Your chapter sounds fabulous, too. There’s nothing like that kind of support and encouragement.
My man. Chris is basically your dream guy – gorgeous, built, and a talented writer in his own right. When I have story problems, he helps me fix them. When I’m stressed, he gives me ice cream. When I’m sad, he holds me. When I’m bored, he takes me shopping. Every hero I have ever written has been inspired by him in some way, be it a line of dialogue, and attitude, or the way they walk. There is NO WAY I would be doing what I do for a living without him. Now I have to go find him and say all this to his face… And I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention my editor, Wanda. She has been a voice of reason, knowledge and encouragement from day one, and I totally feel she has my back. Right. This has turned into an Academy Award acceptance speech…
Oh man, Sarah. What a hero!!!! Your man sounds amazing and definitely worth an Academy Award speech (L)
And yay for having Wanda in your corner! She’s so nice and an awesome editor.
Tawny, I just read out what I wrote to him, and you know what he said? “Don’t you think that shopping bit makes me sound a bit gay?” And I wonder why my heroes are all such smart asses….
OMG ROFLMAO What a guy!!!
And from this woman’s pov? Nope, totally not gay
Just wanted to wave *hi* Sarah! I’ve got to remember to pick up your most recent releases!! And aww… Chris is totally incredible–SO glad you have him because I LOVE your books!
(How selfish is that?!)
Hey Fedora. Great to see you over here. I will send Chris your best wishes!
All the best.
Great story Tawny!
My biggest supporter is my mother. No matter what I’m trying to achieve my mom is always there rooting and encouraging me.
Aww, Nicole. Mom’s rock. (*)
Hey, Miss Tawny, way to rock the joint! What a fun blog – and I must say I giggled when I read it. “Have you done your pages today?” My biggest supporter is my wonderful critique partner Annie West who writes fantastic Harlequin Presents. She’s in the tough but fair brigade which I respect but I know she’s in my corner and out to help me make my work the best it can be. Yay, Annie! And let me tell you girls, both COMING ON STRONG and GOING DOWN HARD are fantastic! I picked both of them up and basically inhaled them. I love how Tawny includes such fantastic deep emotion along with all the fun sauciness.
Anna, my friend
Thank you – you always make me smile! You and the rest of the Romance Bandits are the best!!
And talk about awesome support – Annie West rocks
And from what I hear, it goes both ways.
What a great story, Tawny and an equally great hubby !! Now that is definitely the kind of guy you want in your corner.
I am lucky to have a number of cheerleaders in my corner too. The Banditas, the Risky Regencies, the Broad Strokes (my hometown writing group), the Pixie Chicks (2008 Golden Heart Finalists) the Divine Diane Gaston and La Incomparable Anna C !
But I have to say my most supportive and dictatorial cheerleader is my critique partner, Erin. I barely have time to get home from work before she is on the phone or online saying “Are you ready to write yet? Why aren’t you writing?” There are Marine Corp drill sergeants who could take lessons from her! She is on a fabulous trip to Ireland right now with her hubby, but her last words from the airport were “When I get back you’d better have those revisions done because we are querying as soon as I get back and we are GOING to sell this book!” Sheesh. That reminds me, I need to get back to work.
Tawny, I love your books and I am SO glad your hubby is such a big fan of you and Ms. Brenda!
Louisa, I have to say with La Incomparable Anna C in your corner, you’ve got incredible support!! And what a backing- the Bandits are always there for you
and the rest… awesome!
Erin sounds FABULOUS! Talk about support, she’s definitely got that going on. Since she’s off in Ireland, may I just say for her… “Are you writing? Have you got your pages for the day?” :-P
and thanks
LOL!! Tawny, that’s a great story, and I’m so happy that your husband’s a big supporter, too! It makes all the difference in the world, doesn’t it, to know your nearest and dearest want what you want, too!
I think in general, my husband’s supportive of my dreams, although he’s having a hard time when some of them (say, having the largest TBR known to personkind) tromp on his dreams (say, of having a clean, uncluttered house). Ah well! Married life is full of compromises, right?
LOL on the TBR pile compromise, Fedora. For the sake of writers everywhere, I’m glad you’re winning that one!!! (L)
My sister and my husband are my biggest supporters. From my earliest memories, my sister has always given me books. She’s seven years older than me, and I’ve grown up with the benefit of her guiding hand. She gave me “The Prince and the Pauper” by Mark Twain when I was about 8. My friends were reading Judy Blume and Sweet Valley High (and so was I). She didn’t care what I read as long as I was reading.
Now we’re grown and married and with kids and chaos everywhere. In the middle of soccer practice or a birthday party, she’ll look at me and say, “Shouldn’t you be writing?” Just like that. She believes in me and my potential. She’s my biggest supporter and probably doesn’t know it.
My husband is also amazing, but he knew what he was getting into when he married me! I don’t think I could have fallen in love or married someone who didn’t believe in my writing career.
Tawny, thanks for the great post. Its nice to remember who believes in us when we forget to believe in ourselves!
Aw Nicki, your sister sounds so awesome. That’s so cool that she takes your dream as a given, and as natural a part of your lives as kids and soccer.
I’m glad you enjoyed the post *g* Its been so cool seeing how supported and empowered everyone is!
Hey there–cool new blog!!
I miss seeing you, and plan to do something about that really soon.
Take care–
C
I miss you, too, Chandra!!! (L)
Tawny, cool blog. My biggest supporter is my husband. When I said I wanted to be a writer he went out and bought our first home computer. When I got a request for a full he didn’t let me out of my office until I had written for eight hours each day. He is my biggest fan.
Jill, that is such fab support. I’m all for a guy who recognizes the need for –and provides– the right equipment
But I think its especially wonderful that your hubby is your biggest fan!
Great Story Tawny! The pain meds are a great twist on the carrot and the stick thing. My biggest supporter is my husband followed closely by the critique groups. After reading your story I think I’ll keep my husband and editor far, far apart.
LOL Linda. Its actually pretty cool. He never blinks when I tell him I’m going to conference or a workshop or anything. Hubby’s can be a blessing, huh? And rock on that you have such a great crit group!
Tawny — what a great blog! And I think I’ve seen that expression on your hubby’s face a time or two. How funny is he? I’d have to say my biggest supporter is my hubby, too. Lately, he’s let me use his travel points to escape to a local suite hotel overnight to write while he tends to the 3-yr-old. I’m not saying I don’t get called home more than not, but it’s the thought that counts. Right? And, of course, I must say my buddies at Writers At Play keep me going, even when I so want to retire. Kidding, I’m kidding. But back to you — keep up the incredible work! You rock. ;o)
Hey there, Kath
That’s so sweet that he lets you escape like that, although I’m snickering at how many phone calls I imagine you get 
And you really need to retire that word retire. Really. :-S
LOL Brenda!
enjoyed your story a lot. My husband is my big supporter too. He is a struggling writer himself yet so we both support one another in our dreams. But he’s tending to believe more in me than in himself because on my tenacity. He’s more of a procrastinator (even though now that I’ve discovered twitter and fairyland in facebook I’m procrastinating a lot too).
he’s so convinced I will be the one publishing that he’s asking me to finish something and send it, so he can retire. Meanwhile I have to go to day job, and don’t have much time.
Hi Tawny! First I love your books and I love your story about your hubby too! I would have to say I have 3 awesome supporters. First is my wonderful husband who totally believes that I can do anything I put my mind too, weather its baking cakes or writing books. He is also a great sounding block and really helps me through writers block. Second is my mom who intruduced me to romance books years ago and is always asking me if I have finished my writing yet, lol! And last but not least is my best friend Kim who listens to me rattle about my writing and is always willing to help me work through stuff to get it right.