The Hot Man went to Samoa last night – for the Half Ironman which is next week. Along with his bike and all his special race foods, he also took with him TWO copies of my book. One for my big brother and one for my parents. (the other boxes of books are chugging their slow steady way across the Pacific Ocean on a boat somewhere.)
This is a pic of my dad Dr Tuaopepe Felix Wendt with HIS copy.
A long time ago, an English teacher accused 14yr old me of plagiarism because she said, ‘theres no way you could have written a story like this! You must have copied it from a book somewhere.’ That story was called THE SILVER DOLPHIN and it was about a girl who falls in love with a boy from the ocean…who turns into a silver dolphin and takes her to his undersea kingdom. (See? I was starting to create Daniel Tahi waaaay back then, LOL)
My Dad was not happy. He came to school to defend me and my writing, to set that teacher straight. Among other things, he told her I was a ‘brilliant writer with a great imagination” and “my daughter’s going to write books one day.” He had to wait a long time for me to get my act together and write those books – but my father has always believed in my writing, long before I did. I don’t think young Adult romance with lots of angst-ridden teenagers, rippling tattooed muscles and women who summon lightning and set the world on the fire, is really HIS kind of reading material, but it doesn’t stop him from being rather buzzed every time I release a new book.
Parents who believe in us and see things in us – that we can’t, parents who fight for us – are a blessing and a gift beyond measure.
Thank you Dad.
Lani Wendt Young 
I must say, from the few posts that I have read, I think your Dad is right, you are an exceptional writer … and I’m terribly jealous of your husband for his iron man pursuits!
Thank you! I am very jealous of Darrens Ironman self too…not of the pain and suffering and hard work, just of the endorphin highs and fit fabulous physique!
I love this. Support from family is key…I found my motivation to write and publish only after my father passed away.
Family support is hugely helpful, so true. Without Darren’s encouragement as well, these books would never have happened!
your right there Lani,parents are our greatest supporters good and bad in our lives,we enjoyed our little visit with mom and dad when we went back for our reunion.
Yes my mum was telling me about the Craig family reunion and catching up with you. Sounds like you had a wonderful time in Samoa.
Beautiful, heartfelt words and oh so true! A parent is keenly positioned to call forth gifts hidden in the hidden hearts of their children, to nourish and encourage their growth, but sadly, some do not… I am among your many fans that are very glad your parents did!
Ha! Thats cool Lani!
OUr parents are our backbones. You are very lucky to have them as parents and greatest supporters in our life… Missed my parents a lot.