Yes, it happens, Janet. I think the truth is a wee bit of jealousy creeps in and those that haven't gone on to 'greener' pastures, hate the notion that you have.

Sock it to them.

To e honest, none of my friends read what I write. That applies to my daughter too, even though she thinks I'm probably okay. She's pretty busy, so I take no offence.

For what it's worth, you are one of my favourite writers.

As for me, I still find it difficult to say the words...I am a writer.

Yet for years I assured my students they were writers. :)