Thanks to... Brandi

This week on Wordwranglers, we're discussing ONE person we're the most grateful to in our writing world. There are a lot. I've dedicated my books to some of them. My friend Kim, my writing friend Kristi, My editor, Jennifer Lawler, all deserve mention. Margot Early, who got me going down this path. They all qualify.

But this post is supposed to be about ONE person. The one who inspired you more than any other. So, without a doubt, that person is my daughter. I started on this journey toward publication when she was small. Very small.

She was so excited! I was going to have a book! With my name on it. She took me to one of her elementary school classes where I explained what I did, and showed the kids a printed out manuscript. They all oohed and aahed. It was fun.

Publication became a dimmer and dimmer hope as I got rejection after rejection after rejection.

Brandi's faith never once failed. "You'll get the next one, Mama." or "It was too good for them."

The story of my heart is named Mississippi Blues. It's set in the south, and there's a line in there-- "How's your mama?"

My daughter must have quoted me that line in her best (very good) southern accent a million times. She also read and reread that manuscript.

That book comes out next year, in July.

When I got the call, (email), Brandi was in the room. She celebrated with me as first cried, then danced and shrieked! There wasn't anyone else I wanted to tell more.

Since publication, she celebrates with me when I get a review, mourns when I don't. She's so excited for my book covers with my name on them. Disappointed along with me when I get another rejection.

The one person in my writing life I owe more to than anyone is my daughter. She's grown now. But she's been my rock and I couldn't do it without her.

I love you, Brandi.



Comments

  1. kids are such blessings.They love unconditionally. As writers we all need a good support system. You touched my heart with this story.

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    1. Yes, they are, Tabitha. I love my daughter so much.

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  2. There are so many to thank in our lives! Narrowing it down to one isn't easy. I love this post, D'Ann. And the fact you name your daughter, Brandi, touches my heart.

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    1. Thanks, Sheri! Our kids are the best reason to keep trying!

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  3. You should always have someone you can turn to and who is supportive. I'm glad you have Brandi. My go-to-girl is my sister, Cindy. She is the best! She keeps me going when I want to quit.

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  4. That's beautiful D'Ann! Congrats on your well deserved success and the fact you get to share it with your awesome daughter!

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  5. Darn you D'Ann - that brought a tear to my eye. it was beautiful.

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  6. Very sweet. I'm so glad she was there to share the moment with you.

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  7. Awww. You made me tear up. You did a great job raising a great young lady.

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  8. Absolutely beautiful, D'Ann. Kudos to Brandi for being your rock all these years, and how wonderful for all of her support and never ending faith. Happy holidays, and enjoy them even more as your dreams have come true.

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  9. Very cool, though you've made me a little mushy here. It's great for both of you. Thanks for sharing that!

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  10. So sweet! Touched my heart, D~!

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  11. Brandi sounds like an exceptional young lady. Thus is such a sweet tribute!

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  12. Sniff, sniff. Jess want to leave me and go live with Brandi now.
    I'm traumatized.
    Liza

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  15. Such a sweet and moving tribute to your daughter. I know she's more proud of you than you can know. So glad you have her in your life. And super glad about Mississippi Blues! How splendid for both of you. :) Happy Thanksgiving!

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    1. Thanks, Jenna. We're both thrilled to death about MB. Happy t-day!

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  16. You're so lucky to have Brandi (and her to have you!)!!

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  17. Aw what a heart warming post, D'Ann, thanks.Daughters are the best, aren't they.

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  18. What a great tribute, D! I agree with Cait--daughters are the best. Of course, I never had sons, so maybe I'm biased. But I wouldn't trade my girls for nothing.

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  19. How great to have such a close, supportive relationship with your daughter!

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