tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84802622847809595732024-02-25T01:45:08.103-05:00POWERED BY 'MAGINATION......fueled by Sonshine and coffeeUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger191125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-44434053242505846682016-08-04T18:19:00.000-04:002016-08-05T11:13:40.110-04:002016 LA SCBWI Conference...the Faculty "ONE WORD" ListThe 2016 LA SCBWI Conference was held at the historic (and haunted) Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. It was a fast-paced week of stellar keynotes, inspiring breakouts, great people and new friends.<br />
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At the opening Keynote each of the faculty members were asked to give their "one word" take away. They were inspiring and funny...thought-provoking and encouraging. The impact was undeniable. I scribbled down each word as fast as I could...being a word nerd I didn't want to lose a single letter!<br />
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The One Word List is too good not to share. Whether or not you attended the conference, the impassioned "one word" list is meant for each creative reading this post.<br />
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CHALLENGE: Throughout the following months, I encourage you to look to this list for inspiration and fill a blank page. If you create an illustration from a word, or words, on this list, please share on the social media of your choice and hashtag it #2016LASCBWIoneword.<br />
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2016 LA SCBWI CONFERENCE - FACULTY "ONE WORD"<br />
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VOICE<br />
GRATEFUL<br />
VOTE<br />
DANGEROUS<br />
COMMUNITY<br />
HILLARY<br />
SUPER HERO<br />
BELIEVE<br />
HOPE<br />
REVISE<br />
REDUNCULOUS<br />
PERSON<br />
BENT<br />
EPIPHANY<br />
EMPATHY<br />
CONNECT<br />
INCLUSIVITY<br />
PERSEVERANCE<br />
BREXIT<br />
PATIENCE<br />
SCAVENGER<br />
GHOST<br />
CURIOUS<br />
MALARKEY<br />
KIDS<br />
ANTAGONIST<br />
RELAX<br />
POTATO<br />
HORSE FEATHERS<br />
WONDER WOMAN<br />
BREATHE<br />
VOTE<br />
BIRD<br />
AUTHENTIC<br />
RUMPUS<br />
HOOK<br />
ESPERANZA<br />
AWKWARD<br />
NOBLE<br />
KINDNESS<br />
STUBBORNNESS<br />
RESONATE<br />
CLAIM<br />
METAMORPHOSIS<br />
FAMILY<br />
TITILLATE <br />
EXALT<br />
WONDER<br />
HARMONYUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-65471376773669321952016-03-31T17:37:00.000-04:002016-05-26T13:43:57.104-04:00Experimenting with digital watercolorWatercolor paintings and illustrations are beautiful. And though I've tried, I never quite mastered traditional watercolor. In fact, I never even came close to the images I saw in my head. My color mixes were muddy and my brush hand felt clunky. I took another route and started using colored inks, mixing them with colored pencils, markers and hand-drawn ink lines.<br />
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Fast forward to the present. Digital painting makes experimenting with watercolors fun again. There are many, many watercolor brushes in Photoshop that give realistic results. This is good news for someone like me because it allows me to play...and delete...or add...without the stress.<br />
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There is fun in the practice!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZw7zEf0nDb8iL4TOSKk-WWswjeMaloYrhAtZOJWVKK6tcnfHD-9zGU1wI9_s_hfvDyT4uAcqtgytxgCE4uPmb9SZatlco1gCbpgQZZQutCmABtFrWcn2fHVYZ8JPW5iY97ZvHtt-ZljI/s1600/Psalm-27-4-notecard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZw7zEf0nDb8iL4TOSKk-WWswjeMaloYrhAtZOJWVKK6tcnfHD-9zGU1wI9_s_hfvDyT4uAcqtgytxgCE4uPmb9SZatlco1gCbpgQZZQutCmABtFrWcn2fHVYZ8JPW5iY97ZvHtt-ZljI/s320/Psalm-27-4-notecard.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-52629700609530853312016-03-30T15:36:00.000-04:002016-03-30T15:46:13.163-04:00Sometimes you have to go with your gut...This illustration is part of an assignment for our upcoming SCBWI Carolina's Spring Conference. The assignment was to choose a stanza from Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star (or other selections) and create a double page spread. We were given feedback on the sketch and we are to bring a final version to the conference.<br />
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My original sketch does not look anything like the final version. The original was "sweet" but it didn't create the emotional connection that I wanted it to have. I was given clear and very good art direction on the first illustration, but it still was not working for me. Rather than keep working on a piece I didn't like, I chose to go with my gut instinct and redo the drawing. And I'm glad I did because I like this one so much better!<br />
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I was happy with the first illustration below, but was given a suggestion to add color to the mom and baby. This is where I give a thumbs up to digital painting! Color comps are so easy in Photoshop and make comparisons simple.<br />
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To be honest, I liked the color, at first. But the more I viewed them both side by side, I found that the original, without the color, gave me that "heart" connection I wanted. <br />
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The idea for this illustration comes from a place I love...and miss...rocking fussy babies at 3 AM. Eventually one, or both of us would fall asleep. But time does not stand still and these precious babies of mine have grown, married and will one day have their own 3 AM experiences. I am thankful to be able to share my memories through my illustrations.<br />
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So, when something connects with your heart - or gut - don't be afraid to go with it. Even if it goes against everyone else's opinion. After all, if you are not in love with your work, how can you expect others to be in love with your work?!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zhYe6imFYytS9dlnTUttH2I5kg2gRsfYL8x3PoqN0v7QYQEJXe-XwNP5JtTL_1fV6ErQWAisksK-N8wqbAXpM2RlaoiWytlkgmjTRvMnfSUiFdmvBJjse2aKjmzsT3Vvke2MvwGjNYNp/s1600/Deb-Johnson-Intensive-Sketch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zhYe6imFYytS9dlnTUttH2I5kg2gRsfYL8x3PoqN0v7QYQEJXe-XwNP5JtTL_1fV6ErQWAisksK-N8wqbAXpM2RlaoiWytlkgmjTRvMnfSUiFdmvBJjse2aKjmzsT3Vvke2MvwGjNYNp/s320/Deb-Johnson-Intensive-Sketch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Sketch</td></tr>
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Until next time....if you have any comments or questions, feel free to contact me:</div>
email: debjohnsonstudio@gmail.com<br />
Facebook: debjohnson.1<br />
Twitter: @debjohnsonart<br />
Instagram: debjohnsonart<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-65180499793961188892016-03-29T22:19:00.001-04:002016-03-29T22:19:14.561-04:00Let your sketches do the talking...<br />
I had a little down time this afternoon, so I started a sketch of a toddling kiddo in the yard. She reminds me so much of my daughter at that age, in particular the hair "fountain". As I painted, she seemed to smile back at me. She waved and begged me to go outside to see the beautiful flowers in our yard. She even stopped to pick a few. <br />
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Hmmm...goosebumps...<br />
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So, I let her take my hand and we stepped outside to oooh and ahhhh over the explosion of vibrant colors blooming all over the yard. Wow...and to think I might have missed it! It made me pause and reflect...I am thankful for a husband who's thumb is way greener than mine. And I am truly thankful for the gift that God gave me that allows me to create. I am even more in awe that HE connected with me through a sketch! <br />
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HELLO SPRING!<br />
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The following images represent the steps I took to complete the illustration "Kellie".<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtFCOTKse4ETlaRXVQZ9f4mNPUBrZNGtVsgfwsofB1DCir40-I83M393_8X7r4IYHSNrC7o5e814wWy1wfJESHXO1h6SSm40xoEJcihYd0RILgm7hwgfD4kU2vC3sXm8g55DsE5gMDSNC/s1600/Hello-Sketch+screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtFCOTKse4ETlaRXVQZ9f4mNPUBrZNGtVsgfwsofB1DCir40-I83M393_8X7r4IYHSNrC7o5e814wWy1wfJESHXO1h6SSm40xoEJcihYd0RILgm7hwgfD4kU2vC3sXm8g55DsE5gMDSNC/s320/Hello-Sketch+screen.jpg" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Digital Pencil Sketch</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygnGkrQEW9XLzc5RagHfXtbgilG9eAkgQuLv6IDbxVMwj_NijTAM9-YuL876H3G8zkuxKlrUU2PTtZijmszogJf0JrBlpODze4m5gPuqH2wfWzkOYwR3HzC-elqR4jNWdBer4IxV2VwdP/s1600/Hello+Sketch+Background+Screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygnGkrQEW9XLzc5RagHfXtbgilG9eAkgQuLv6IDbxVMwj_NijTAM9-YuL876H3G8zkuxKlrUU2PTtZijmszogJf0JrBlpODze4m5gPuqH2wfWzkOYwR3HzC-elqR4jNWdBer4IxV2VwdP/s320/Hello+Sketch+Background+Screen.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Background gets painted in several layers.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSHY0PjXnXvq3urix5L00_2LAauRLs7vtYMLM-tUEitRpTDHTEUoj4vIbLAVudKV9YRYKKplj1h6H5AJnwE2BxD95M_PW2pxpye6OW1edMA3_NpDxzZmqWDijJ50JsRhv1UOCB6fIgAyM/s1600/Hello+Finished+Screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSHY0PjXnXvq3urix5L00_2LAauRLs7vtYMLM-tUEitRpTDHTEUoj4vIbLAVudKV9YRYKKplj1h6H5AJnwE2BxD95M_PW2pxpye6OW1edMA3_NpDxzZmqWDijJ50JsRhv1UOCB6fIgAyM/s320/Hello+Finished+Screen.jpg" width="279" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The baby girl is painted in several layers, too.</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-17100251119793492612016-03-28T18:53:00.002-04:002016-03-28T18:54:09.360-04:00The Fun of Digital Painting...When I started my illustration career, about 427 years ago, I worked traditionally. I could tell the difference between hot and cold press bristol board and papers. Canson Mi-Teintes was my favorite paper and, when paired with my Prismacolor Pencils, it was a marriage made in heaven for me! I did lots and lots of pen and ink...3 complete sets of Rapidiograph pens bit the dust not to mention countless single pens. Running out of india ink in the middle of an assignment was horrifying (many late night runs to Pearl's art supply!).<br />
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Usher in the 2000's and a switch to digital media 16 years ago...how on earth did I survive all those years on pencil and paper alone?!<br />
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There was no CMD Z to undo my boo-boos.<br />
Texture actually came from real paper, not an overlay layer set to multiply.<br />
Color studies were done separately and I could only hope the final art looked the same. There was no eye dropper tool to keep the colors consistent.<br />
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My list could go on and on about the benefits of creating in a digital studio but I still make a point to connect with my traditional art. I love the feel of a sketchbook and pencil. My schedule is still a hand-written daily list and entries into a (egad!) dollar store calendar. I guess I still cling to some of the tried and true habits from the stone age...<br />
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Enough of that! Here is a video clip of painting a work in progress (WIP) in Photoshop and the final right side of a double page spread. I use Creative Cloud and keep everything up to date. One day...you know, ONE DAY...I plan to learn some of the other software that my membership includes.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzH_n9aeJuu7rgBn-K1SUBvbY8T1izQEDEe2GlF9aeviuvIiLqWNFw-EMbYWDnyvdbChf_8B4PtHNjny3V5mg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpNn9DK_oup6GsVR8gYCyYFsCwuaqnOchI3pFEZ9ny33GMUkkI_B7cqVtDYUSnfUwF7PJ1CB1uDRzDGXaOpQTLHihGokAXFrY8b4VjOxgrXkUiH7vSgQ_kJwPjLgTCfU-p7KM_FZa3IoW/s1600/Twinkle+snip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpNn9DK_oup6GsVR8gYCyYFsCwuaqnOchI3pFEZ9ny33GMUkkI_B7cqVtDYUSnfUwF7PJ1CB1uDRzDGXaOpQTLHihGokAXFrY8b4VjOxgrXkUiH7vSgQ_kJwPjLgTCfU-p7KM_FZa3IoW/s320/Twinkle+snip.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Most of my paint brushes are purchased from Kyle T. Webster. They are fabulous! (www.kyletwebster.com)<br />
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Until next time....if you have any comments or questions, feel free to contact me:<br />
email: debjohnsonstudio@gmail.com<br />
Facebook: debjohnson.1<br />
Twitter: @debjohnsonart<br />
Instagram: debjohnsonartUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-57706086904050060052016-01-04T11:25:00.002-05:002016-01-04T16:32:42.231-05:00Happy New Year...2016!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am fully embracing the start of 2016! It feels good to shed my 2015 experience and step into a year of intentional and inspirational challenges and grow from there; both professionally and personally.<br />
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2015 had it's share of awful stuff...things I didn't plan to encounter. After working for months to get ready for the SCBWI LA conference, I had to cancel at the last minute because I contracted C-DIFF. It's not something you can travel with and it's highly contagious...and yeah, people die from this stuff. The (usually quiet) rheumatoid arthritis that I've had most of my life woke up in the middle of the C-DIFF nightmare. Life halted. Everything changed in the matter of a few weeks.<br />
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That unwanted call at the end of July meant I had a choice to make. Do I give in to the temptation of feeling sorry for myself? Get angry at God because I didn't deserve this mess? I can tell you that I didn't choose either one of those options. Instead, I chose to lean in to God and seek comfort rather than anger; to have peace over the situation; and get to know Him much better. I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I was never left alone once during the last 7 months. It's pretty amazing what He can do, even in a broken-to-pieces person like me :D<br />
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2015 is the year that "hope was born" in every sense of the word. <br />
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Here we are, finally at 2016...YAY!!! I don't make resolutions, but instead have "words" to guide my goals for the year. My 2016 "words" are Intentional and Inspiration. I want to be intentional of the choices I make, the things I say and do...intentional about how and where I spend my time and finances (and that's just for starters!). To do my best to be an inspiration to others through my God-given talents.<br />
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Oh...and I want to self-publish at least one more coloring book this year and TWO of my own books through my imprint, Flannel Moose!<br />
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I am thankful to have a job that I love - illustrating and writing for children - and ready to take a new adventure in 2016!<br />
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How about you? What goals have you set for yourself in 2016?<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-58153093656046206312015-06-24T10:06:00.001-04:002015-06-24T10:07:43.177-04:00Embracing the interruptions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvbH4n3c7Vynpf_tMDvqOQStN3b3UrWiVKbrzfAKwG3NqqK_HQzVI-BBamPS14jcmfZzqXE36HkvRIJ1oCHDhkyQ4AZ5YAUfvBim-5K2XkeGkJl74gNG2PhuFcPwwAG39PwR0qb6mhUdv/s1600/Deb_Johnson_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvbH4n3c7Vynpf_tMDvqOQStN3b3UrWiVKbrzfAKwG3NqqK_HQzVI-BBamPS14jcmfZzqXE36HkvRIJ1oCHDhkyQ4AZ5YAUfvBim-5K2XkeGkJl74gNG2PhuFcPwwAG39PwR0qb6mhUdv/s400/Deb_Johnson_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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All writers and artists need space...a quiet place to create...right? I
don't know about you, but that rarely happens at my house. And that's
okay. <br />
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Through the years, I have shared my studio space with the
most important people, and pets, in my life. Each conversation, every
interruption, the floating pet hair and dust bunnies...they are moments
that inspire and make this illustrator's heart happy and full. Some of my favorite memories are when my daughter was a teenager...she would come in to my studio, flop down on the floor, and start telling me about her day. One day, I hope to live close enough and let my future grand-kiddos (or her) do the same.<br />
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I always find the quiet spaces when I need them, but for now, I'll embrace the snoring dog and count my life blessed. My art is, after all, a reflection of my heart. Let's keep it happy.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-9165608730239098672015-04-10T13:55:00.000-04:002015-04-10T13:55:06.735-04:00Finding your voice in the chatter...We all have it. We all listen to it. It doesn’t matter where we are in our career - beginner or famous - we have heard the negative chatter inside our own head.<br /><br />I call my negative chatter, “Moe”. <br /><br />I don’t want hear no Moe. But as we all know, Moe is a persistent somebody.<br /><br />Moe tells me things that aren’t true. They are lies. And if I’m not careful, I will engage the downward spiraling conversation.<br /><i><br />If my work was really that good, I would have an agent by now. A self-taught illustrator has no voice against an art school degree. I have never illustrated a real picture book, so who am I to do this job?....</i><br /><br />When I can’t stand to hear more of Moe...<br /><br />I STOMP ON THE PAUSE BUTTON AND STUFF A SOCK IN MOE.<br /><br />I surround myself with others in this industry because you can’t do this journey without community. It can be brutal. As creatives we are not meant to be alone. We need the support and encouragement from our colleagues and friends. They understand because they are on a similar trek and have heard their own Moe.<br /><br />We all need to hear, and be reminded, that we have a voice and something to offer. Always.<br /><br />In community, we learn positive defense systems against Moe’s negative remarks.<br /><br />We learn to cultivate patience in this life long process.<br /><br />And yes, it’s hard, but you can do it.<br /><br />Just don’t do it alone.<br /><br /><br />If you get nothing else, please remember this...<br /><br />You have a voice. Find your community of people. Join the <a href="http://www.scbwi.org/" target="_blank">SCBWI</a>. <br /><br />Have patience. Persevere. <br /><br />And stuff a sock in your Moe.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-1321034237457132312015-01-09T10:33:00.001-05:002015-01-09T10:33:38.557-05:00A year in review...and this message sticks...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0Z1Tz3bdq6hoZq72NzRzUFs70HtuLTlxzPPj0fL-Mwovy5Kw_J44uJLn0rbTjEDrQ8D5vQJCUvCK65AGXzdn8rXWnJpi_j3YAQDXqnxPsgOJUyK-0iXHpGOv_Evu4gtlepoVwTBRwwEw/s1600/artist-girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0Z1Tz3bdq6hoZq72NzRzUFs70HtuLTlxzPPj0fL-Mwovy5Kw_J44uJLn0rbTjEDrQ8D5vQJCUvCK65AGXzdn8rXWnJpi_j3YAQDXqnxPsgOJUyK-0iXHpGOv_Evu4gtlepoVwTBRwwEw/s1600/artist-girl.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
I've tried - and then deleted all of my blog attempts that try to explain the experience of total freelancing the last year. I had been stuck in every way possible for too long so I made a decision that would force me to move. I didn't know where, or how, but I would move some place. <br /><br />It was a fabulous year of NOT accomplishing everything I had in my mind to do. Looking back, it was a year of foundation building for the years ahead and what those years may bring. Good and bad. Big and small. Sweet and the not so sweet. I had to yank on the bootstraps I didn't know I owned to get to the other side. It was hard. I wanted to quit more than I dare to admit. But, I learned to lean in and rely on God so much more that I ever had. I learned to trust in areas that I normally wouldn't have. The last year left something deeper and more meaningful in my soul that only stepping out and away could bring.<br /><br />Thank you to my hubby...the love of my life and patient soul that he is... for taking that financial hell journey with me, and the amazing support of my family and friends. I would not be here - doing what I love more than anything - without you. Happy New Year and I pray God's amazing grace and blessings on each and every one of you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-5989502273795752652015-01-07T21:55:00.003-05:002015-01-07T21:55:57.127-05:00If you don't do anything else in 2015...at least do this ONE thing...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTU61GB_cg_EQB2oO4HeaVH-9qFwALzg6CHMrf-j7l8vdWcuaiGcNYY7j6_C9L128rvOQY22vlTZJFTztyHsXCvnqJOlTu5t7m5nmb1l-4kl3YPVGpsrhzrVnn4NO5wbCuy0Et0uNcg6CB/s1600/DebJohnson-SantasSleigh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTU61GB_cg_EQB2oO4HeaVH-9qFwALzg6CHMrf-j7l8vdWcuaiGcNYY7j6_C9L128rvOQY22vlTZJFTztyHsXCvnqJOlTu5t7m5nmb1l-4kl3YPVGpsrhzrVnn4NO5wbCuy0Et0uNcg6CB/s1600/DebJohnson-SantasSleigh.jpg" height="232" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That ONE thing is to <b>CONNECT</b> with others who share your passion for your craft. If you are an illustrator or author - or both - make a point to connect with other illustrators and authors this year through critique groups, Facebook groups, the SCBWI...by whatever means possible.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you aren't connected with your regions SCBWI, then go to www.scbwi.org and check it out. Belonging to a professional organization, such as the SCBWI, tells potential clients that you take your career seriously. Yesterday, I mentioned <a href="http://www.kidlit411.com/" target="_blank">KIDLIT411</a> in my post, and want to remind you about it again today. They have an entire page devoted to <a href="http://www.kidlit411.com/2014/01/critique-groups.html" target="_blank">critique groups</a> links. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">On the other hand, maybe you aren't' ready to connect with others yet because you're still trying to figure out your direction. I've got it! Start with a BLUEPRINT! Check out the site <a href="http://www.drawnbysuccess.com/" target="_blank">Drawn By Success</a> and download the <a href="http://drawnbysuccess.com/success-blueprint/" target="_blank">FREE Artist's Success Blueprint</a>. It's a series of 4 audio lessons (2 hours total) and 3 sets of powerful, carefully crafted worksheets designed to specifically address the biggest stumbling blocks you encounter as an artist (20 pages).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Connecting with other illustrators, many of whom are now dear friends, has changed my life and career for the better. The brainstorming that takes place when creatives get together is mind blowing. It's amazing what can be accomplished with a little time and alot of imagination!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>Romans 8:28 </i></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<strong><em>What this Blueprint will help you with:</em></strong>
<ul>
<li>Zero in on your ONE big idea that will propel you to your best year ever</li>
<li>Get crystal clear about what’s REALLY holding you back creating the work and earning the money you want.</li>
<li>Focus and prioritize your top ten ’must get done’ projects for the next 12 months</li>
<li>Taking the right daily actions to start getting results fast</li>
</ul>
<br />
Here’s what you get in the <strong>‘DrawnBySuccess Artist’s Success Blueprint</strong>’<br />
<ul>
<li>A series of 4 audio lessons (2 hrs in total)</li>
<li>Three sets of powerful, carefully crafted worksheets created
specifically to address the BIGGEST roadblocks keeping artists just like
you from attracting more clients and earning the income you want. (over
20 pages)</li>
</ul>
- See more at: http://drawnbysuccess.com/success-blueprint/#sthash.6JOpWMaH.dpuf</div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<strong><em>What this Blueprint will help you with:</em></strong>
<ul>
<li>Zero in on your ONE big idea that will propel you to your best year ever</li>
<li>Get crystal clear about what’s REALLY holding you back creating the work and earning the money you want.</li>
<li>Focus and prioritize your top ten ’must get done’ projects for the next 12 months</li>
<li>Taking the right daily actions to start getting results fast</li>
</ul>
<br />
Here’s what you get in the <strong>‘DrawnBySuccess Artist’s Success Blueprint</strong>’<br />
<ul>
<li>A series of 4 audio lessons (2 hrs in total)</li>
<li>Three sets of powerful, carefully crafted worksheets created
specifically to address the BIGGEST roadblocks keeping artists just like
you from attracting more clients and earning the income you want. (over
20 pages)</li>
</ul>
- See more at: http://drawnbysuccess.com/success-blueprint/#sthash.6JOpWMaH.dpuf</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-67916732437555729172015-01-06T08:52:00.000-05:002015-01-06T09:33:51.540-05:00Doodling the digital way<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTkFJOPjHGlnliEG7XBYohTbqEgqTnaY1iX5N8sqg7FLhbnFQmF9BONYFsX1lPZALIdw1Gm3gP4Wt0aMf4B_PayDRyt7m_KL3lllNR86LzbIyetJ2LYxDnNpiquDlbdQ9aPrxSA9DLm4y/s1600/snip2.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTkFJOPjHGlnliEG7XBYohTbqEgqTnaY1iX5N8sqg7FLhbnFQmF9BONYFsX1lPZALIdw1Gm3gP4Wt0aMf4B_PayDRyt7m_KL3lllNR86LzbIyetJ2LYxDnNpiquDlbdQ9aPrxSA9DLm4y/s1600/snip2.tiff" height="231" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These smiling faces are waiting on me...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I get images and ideas in my head all the time...at crazy times...but that doesn't mean everything that skips through my imagination is meant for an illustration. Most ideas I want to get onto paper as quick as possible. And since I carry a sketchbook, that part is easy. The frustrating issue is when I can't put the image I see in my head on paper - the first time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When this happens I take my doodles to my digital paper. I love doodling digitally because I can quickly add layers and move things around. I like what happens in this process because this is where the original idea takes shape. Lately I have been trying to create "cleaner" doodles because I like to use the loose sketch in my final art. Ah...the magic of Photoshop! I love it.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For my digital pencil sketches, my favorite pencil is the Twitterific Pencil created by <a href="http://www.kyletwebster.com/" target="_blank">Kyle T. Webster</a>. This is the brush used on the sketch here. You can find this brush and an amazing selection of others at his <a href="http://www.kyletwebster.com/" target="_blank">website.</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are on Facebook, check out the group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/DoodleDay/" target="_blank">DOODLE DAY</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For even more reading and resources, hop on over to <a href="http://www.kidlit411.com/" target="_blank">KIDLIT411</a>. It's a fantastic one-stop site for all things illustrator and author related.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am illustrating my own short poem for the February issue of Snickerdoodlez. Illustrating my own writing is still a stumbling block, but I've got my 2015 guidelines to get me through it...Pray First. Dream Big.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I PRAY FIRST and trust this project with inspire at least one person. I DREAM BIG because our God is an awesome Father who wants to bless us in great ways!</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-59538762568224939792015-01-04T16:17:00.001-05:002015-01-04T16:17:13.951-05:00What is the appetite of your life?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHRro8y5jq0CIB3dzj6QBRhV5mXYcjU4ySOixqMXuj2ZxCEPUJISaie1rz_FxjgfyTyKB16MRvxcXxCQ902-m9BpoLKSOEOyF6lYEIEP9qS2B1acqfOvqriNqdcVbekaQkopu6B3BunSC/s1600/bear+snip+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHRro8y5jq0CIB3dzj6QBRhV5mXYcjU4ySOixqMXuj2ZxCEPUJISaie1rz_FxjgfyTyKB16MRvxcXxCQ902-m9BpoLKSOEOyF6lYEIEP9qS2B1acqfOvqriNqdcVbekaQkopu6B3BunSC/s1600/bear+snip+2.jpg" height="222" width="320" /><span style="color: blue;"><b></b></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Snip from Moogie, Bop and Me!</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Appetite. </b></span> </span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When I see that word I immediately think of food...and that a handful of jellybeans would solve my insatiable appetite for something sweet. But that's not what I'm talking about (even though jellybeans are a weakness). This "appetite" refers to your life. What do you CRAVE that leaves you EAGER to have more of? What do you have a HANKERING for that keeps you filled and indescribably happy?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's certainly not what I've been loading up on lately, that's for darn sure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today I started following, along with my Pastor and the rest of our church, 21 days of prayer and fasting. It's not 3 weeks of food starvation, although healthy fasting can certainly be part of it, if you choose. This time is for us to give up something...whatever that something is... and spend more time getting to know God on a more personal level. I don't know about you, but I'm more than ready to realign my scattered heart - and attention span - to a life that is more God centered. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So how do I do this? I'm sure it goes way beyond giving up sweets, so I had to hit my knees on this one. KAPOW! When you give it up to God, he's going to do something about your "something", and you better be ready. Most of the time His solution is to make you step waaaaay outside of your comfort zone. And He did.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">oyvey...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Okay...I need to make take a side road, but I promise it will connect later...</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.acuff.me/" target="_blank">Jon Acuff </a>is a fantastic writer. I've read his books <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Quitter-Jon-Acuff-ebook/dp/B004ZL9TW0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420405137&sr=8-1&keywords=quitter" target="_blank">Quitter</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Start-Punch-Escape-Average-Matters-ebook/dp/B00CHVIVMY/ref=pd_sim_kstore_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=1CC2R55AYJKCT548Q0C9" target="_blank">Start</a> and it made a lasting impact. In fact, I plan to read them again. In December I signed up for his challenge called the <b>10 Day Do Over Challenge</b> (<a href="http://acuff.me/10ddoc/" target="_blank">Get it HERE</a>). You pick one thing you want to "do over" and spend the next 10 days doing it. It's a jump start to better habits, etc. My Do Over is to reconnect with blogging and spend less time on social media. I can't totally give up on Facebook and Twitter because it's attached to my illustration career, but I can be intentional about blogging and the topics I choose for the next 21 days. </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Back on the appetite road again...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Blogging every day about this 21 Day Field Trip Without Jellybeans...are you still with me?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I sure hope so because it might be nice to have a reader or two over the next few weeks. In a way, this is like writing a kids book, but instead of writing for someone else, I will be stepping into my own story...the one that God has already written for me. And he has one for you, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So what is the appetite of my life - on this day? I miss jellybeans already, but I have felt the unmistakeable shift of my insides tugging in another direction. A better direction.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In the next few weeks I want to learn...no, I want to CRAVE this time I am learning to set aside - to reconnect with a passion and enthusiasm that only comes from keeping my heart and mind on a God who loves me more than life. I want to have my insides filled up with only good things...and so much so that it's the only thing that will pour out of me and into the illustrations I create, the stories I write, and the world around me.</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Thanks for reading...your comments and thoughts are always welcome!</span><br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-74544842543186971312015-01-02T19:01:00.001-05:002015-01-02T19:01:27.254-05:00Happy New Year...A resolution to not make resolutions<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMp_M0niqT8feJ6REKykEYl3Sg2ODMULxU0n8UbStcxrQgSqtuIxkEI7BUFtuiPfH1sYdOZIr8merICgcZuAtCAWc_gCg5vi-ZOxzS6NeXD_3v78ZLLXj_whzNw4j04GaCfAD-ZjnXil8v/s1600/FB-girl-book-banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMp_M0niqT8feJ6REKykEYl3Sg2ODMULxU0n8UbStcxrQgSqtuIxkEI7BUFtuiPfH1sYdOZIr8merICgcZuAtCAWc_gCg5vi-ZOxzS6NeXD_3v78ZLLXj_whzNw4j04GaCfAD-ZjnXil8v/s1600/FB-girl-book-banner.jpg" height="147" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #868686; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none;">First, you must understand that I don't make resolutions. I <span style="color: #5040ae;"><strong>RESOLVE</strong></span>
to _______ what? Eat better. Lose weight. Stop smoking. Be nice to
people. Spend more time with my kids. Go to church every Sunday. Get a
job, or a better job...the list goes on. The truth is that most or all
of these resolutions are fantastic. It is also true that most of them
will be discarded by the end of January. Whether it's just too hard to
loose weight, or getting up early on Sunday morning is not your thing,
it was just a silly resolution anyway. And we all know that resolutions
are made to be broken. Right? </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>This is why I don't make resolutions. When I say <strong>resolution</strong> I feel defeated before I even start.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br />Many years ago I decided to change the way I approached the whole New Year's Resolution thing. And that's when I got excited!<br /><br />My thesaurus explains <strong>RESOLUTION</strong> like this:<br /></span><span>noun<br />1 her <strong>resolution</strong> not to smoke: intention, resolve, decision, intent, aim, plan; commitment, pledge, promise.<br />2 the committee passed the <strong>resolution</strong>: motion, proposal, proposition, resolve.<br />3 she handled the work with<strong> resolution</strong>:
determination, purpose, purposefulness, resolve, resoluteness,
single-mindedness, firmness, firmness of purpose; steadfastness,
staunchness, perseverance, persistence, indefatigably, tenacity,
tenaciousness, staying power, dedication, commitment; stubbornness,
doggedness, obstinacy, obduracy; boldness, spiritedness, braveness,
bravery, courage, pluck, grit, courageousness; informal guts, spunk;
formal pertinacity.<br />4 a satisfactory <strong>resolution</strong> of the problem: solution to, answer to, end to, ending to, settlement of, conclusion to.<br />________________<br /><br /><strong>Don't look at the word resolution...pay attention to the words that DESCRIBE it. </strong> <br /><br />Each year I choose a word or phrase to help set my frame of mind and then I make a <strong>DREAM BIG</strong>
list of all of the things I want to accomplish in that year. (My
favorite Illustrator and Author peeps from the SCBWI Carolinas also know
this list as the HOLY SH*T list!) I know that I won't get to do
everything, but I will accomplish some things. And in doing so, I am
making the <strong>commitment</strong> to start, the <strong>determination</strong> to follow through, have the <strong>spiritedness and spunk</strong> (I love those words) to handle the project and the <strong>courage</strong> to try again should I fail. And yes, I will fail but not at everything. I choose to have the<strong> pluck</strong> (another word I love) to get back in there and try again.<br /><br />And
you know what? That DREAM BIG - HOLY SH*T list is yours and yours
alone. YOU own it. There is one hitch...you can always add things, but
you may not take anything away. Sometimes those are the items that
will go onto our 2016 list.<br /><br />With 2014 coming to a close and 2015 jumping around anxiously waiting for midnight, I know this for certain...<br /><br />In 2015 I will PRAY FIRST and DREAM BIG. I will share my list a bit later.<br /><br />What is on your 2015 DREAM BIG LIST?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-46168167727542564092014-01-11T14:53:00.001-05:002014-01-11T14:55:17.706-05:00Review: Mr. Tiger Goes Wild by Peter Brown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxU9kAp18nBH5QuiR7lpj7S2d1EmgZ-CkUJUAXpTv1IaIMpGUy59MHAfdeT1q-Oczp0AvnNmtltG9mQaqzY1aJqJ19ip_YdVCbYBlVNUD1UlmmkMAPPs_tpDcjF9RCsQnqRFL_xfdgJLv/s1600/mr_tiger_goes_wild_brown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxU9kAp18nBH5QuiR7lpj7S2d1EmgZ-CkUJUAXpTv1IaIMpGUy59MHAfdeT1q-Oczp0AvnNmtltG9mQaqzY1aJqJ19ip_YdVCbYBlVNUD1UlmmkMAPPs_tpDcjF9RCsQnqRFL_xfdgJLv/s1600/mr_tiger_goes_wild_brown.jpg" height="200" width="198" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who hasn't had the urge to go WILD sometimes? I knew this book was destined for my book shelf when I saw the beautifully illustrated cover. Mr. Tiger's fun expression begs the reader to find out how this properly dressed tiger is going to go wild.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mr. Tiger lives in a very proper town, where they dress in very proper clothes, walk on two proper legs and lead very proper and boring lives. So Mr. Tiger, who was "bored with always being so proper" got a "very wild idea." Starting with getting on "all fours", Mr. Tiger starts casting off his proper constraints and gets WILD! And he ROARS!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The town folk are not too happy with Mr. Tiger and tell him to kindly act wild in the wilderness. Mr. Tiger says "What a magnificent idea!" </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although he has lots of fun being wild and free, Mr. Tiger soon misses his friends, and the city.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He returns to find a surprise!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And this is where I will leave you hanging in suspense until you read this lovely book for yourself! (FYI...it is a happy ending!)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mr. Tiger is a wonderful story that encourages all of us to be ourselves. Then, and only then, are we truly happy.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Written and illustrated by Peter Brown, I love note placed on the end paper, About This Book. It gives details about how the gorgeous illustrations were created, editing done by Alvinia Ling and the beautiful design by Patti Ann Harris and Peter Brown.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">#mrtigergoeswildreview #storytime @itspeterbrown #kidlit #kidlitart @debjohnsonart</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<br />
------------------<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">From Amazon:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Age Range:</b> 3 - 6 years</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Grade Level:</b> Preschool - 1</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Hardcover:</b> 48 pages</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Publisher:</b> Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (September 3, 2013)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Language:</b> English</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>ISBN-10:</b> 0316200638</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>ISBN-13:</b> 978-0316200639</span></span></li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-87621793717264845852013-11-16T17:56:00.002-05:002013-11-16T17:56:29.634-05:00SkADaMo #13<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LZw3i_h-vXzmLZTDMGudiUQXmIl_4N6k9dt_7d4zFg_YAMzwvRvUFRbWcfNuTE9cZsjqXBaEooZqtDUzdkbmZvGDkInk8SD3ckTM2bh_qkyi2hc5jTyscGNeDR0ap7ziHHgc1aViPL6b/s1600/Skadamo-13+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LZw3i_h-vXzmLZTDMGudiUQXmIl_4N6k9dt_7d4zFg_YAMzwvRvUFRbWcfNuTE9cZsjqXBaEooZqtDUzdkbmZvGDkInk8SD3ckTM2bh_qkyi2hc5jTyscGNeDR0ap7ziHHgc1aViPL6b/s320/Skadamo-13+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-47286804466583927512013-11-16T17:55:00.002-05:002013-11-16T17:55:30.263-05:00SkADaMo #12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHF9JgmS2REMU3cEd3lviKOVgHDN9InqNekGLe7J3xmAiM9r9YVu6dptjaZ3a-1r2y-5SDnfRATDarxfAxQutzBTHGr7Pzmc-lb_PHmgPWvvh6XAoKKDB-XxtKJLJ60uaNNocsSLgTVZD/s1600/skadamo+12+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHF9JgmS2REMU3cEd3lviKOVgHDN9InqNekGLe7J3xmAiM9r9YVu6dptjaZ3a-1r2y-5SDnfRATDarxfAxQutzBTHGr7Pzmc-lb_PHmgPWvvh6XAoKKDB-XxtKJLJ60uaNNocsSLgTVZD/s320/skadamo+12+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-77116005820810845962013-11-16T17:45:00.000-05:002013-11-16T17:45:01.191-05:00iPad Air with the Wacom Creative Stylus...a marriage of compromise and convenience!<div class="_1x1">
<div class="userContentWrapper">
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I don't like tethered things...and thank goodness being attached to a corded device is becoming a thing of the past. Not fast enough for me, though! And, on my limited budget, I have to be creative!</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I have owned a Cintiq for over 3 years and, along with my 27" iMac, it is one of the best investments for my illustrating business that I have ever made. But, I'm tethered...leashed to a bunch of cumbersom cords...sigh. I have been waiting for a Wacom product that is portable...one with all of the bells and whistles my 21UX has. And Wacom finally delivered the Companion this year. It's a fantastic piece of work with a price tag to go with it.</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">So...I set my budget and got creative.</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I needed a laptop, a tablet, and a portable Cintiq-like experience.</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I told my 2 year old Nook Tablet that our relationship was over. After much research, listing pros and cons...more research, I decided to buy an iPad Air (64GB), a wireless Apple Keyboard and a Wacom Creative Stylus.</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">If you already own an iPad, then your cost will be less (and that makes me wish I had bought one years ago!)</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">So far I really like it! I have been experimenting with different painting and sketching apps. The Wacom Creative Stylus web page lists several apps that it works with. The Bamboo
Paper App is my favorite
sketch app combination so far. I purchased the additional brushes with
the app ($3.99). I like the "sketchbooks" and notebooks that it has.
Nice and simple application. There is a learning curve with apps like
ProCreate. I will be working with them next. Since all of this is relatively new, more and more apps will become available to work with the pressure sensitive Wacom stylus.</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Note...the sponge rubber tip takes a little getting used to.</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> </span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">The original plan of getting a laptop/portable sketch pad/tablet for a fraction of the Cintiq
Companion has been obtained. Although I know it is not exactly the same as the Cintiq Companion, I am happy with the versatility of the iPad Air and Stylus combination...</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> </span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">...and most important...I am not tethered to anything! </span><span class="UFIBlingBoxTimeline"><span data-reactid=".r[4iisa]"><a class=" UFIBlingBoxTimelineItem" data-ft="{"tn":"O"}" data-hover="tooltip" data-reactid=".r[4iisa].[0]" data-tooltip-alignh="right" href="https://www.facebook.com/shares/view?id=10153494777750597" rel="async"><span data-reactid=".r[4iisa].[0].[0]"><span class="UFIBlingBoxText" data-reactid=".r[4iisa].[0].[0].[1]"></span></span></a></span></span><span class="UIActionLinks UIActionLinks_bottom" data-ft="{"tn":"=","type":20}"><span></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-5998939812562488682013-11-01T22:46:00.003-04:002013-11-01T22:46:55.854-04:00SkaDaMo November 1st 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPB_dBL9GFKVLb_F-BVGMratcM5c0Ckvs-JciI8Y0EFKqdwGbCm59dfJYouxKiixHjk1SMY-Ej8wpJBrY1qLrJQz4quSDm7zbr7iXeEQB1nhPk9xY4K5yXL-j1stWIihaouZylUp1AJU1/s1600/Skadamo-11.1.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPB_dBL9GFKVLb_F-BVGMratcM5c0Ckvs-JciI8Y0EFKqdwGbCm59dfJYouxKiixHjk1SMY-Ej8wpJBrY1qLrJQz4quSDm7zbr7iXeEQB1nhPk9xY4K5yXL-j1stWIihaouZylUp1AJU1/s1600/Skadamo-11.1.13.jpg" height="400" width="358" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-58092036269867160422012-11-27T21:50:00.003-05:002012-11-27T21:50:50.863-05:00The Naughty List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu2_7GzI7PnJslF8siJ0dlG4F9SwyTo0Y3AtKPFPbqMR076bY8VgHgp-aBGSx6lGJj0hf6nni6l_nqqdL2S94Uhs_ZGHhCrwFSPNrlhKBw2yl1dQzaBEj6RVVaASkZZgq1jrYEPoh956s/s1600/elves+&+List.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu2_7GzI7PnJslF8siJ0dlG4F9SwyTo0Y3AtKPFPbqMR076bY8VgHgp-aBGSx6lGJj0hf6nni6l_nqqdL2S94Uhs_ZGHhCrwFSPNrlhKBw2yl1dQzaBEj6RVVaASkZZgq1jrYEPoh956s/s1600/elves+&+List.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-50120429642785526802012-11-25T23:19:00.001-05:002012-11-25T23:19:17.969-05:00Fat Dog...Too much punkin' pie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvIE4YDq_LmUreVBxpEu4Ud4VMT5bsakM1ZJh2Vt9fIRBQMqCMbmTNH38glseo6TmOH-vnWj470uxUDWlPQbiXmM7bU5Pp3D6OAoJNp8scXqoUmrUbWjP_iPHc_mOEI-IDbtNyIsgwKcT/s1600/fatdog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvIE4YDq_LmUreVBxpEu4Ud4VMT5bsakM1ZJh2Vt9fIRBQMqCMbmTNH38glseo6TmOH-vnWj470uxUDWlPQbiXmM7bU5Pp3D6OAoJNp8scXqoUmrUbWjP_iPHc_mOEI-IDbtNyIsgwKcT/s400/fatdog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-31375984009052959822012-11-20T23:46:00.003-05:002012-11-20T23:46:55.594-05:00SkaDaMo Day 18<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyB7b9okra0CZWFwCz1H3qtD7KVXi4EEkkwso4j6N6VcH8JHaFvBlR3i7wnOufv5j6iOUCec2BdzzoHAuxx50SEgBrtyIx_VDSvxYivLmRvCFl6TQgy-BTcQn7hUYW1osBpkezgdwMapI8/s1600/tubing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyB7b9okra0CZWFwCz1H3qtD7KVXi4EEkkwso4j6N6VcH8JHaFvBlR3i7wnOufv5j6iOUCec2BdzzoHAuxx50SEgBrtyIx_VDSvxYivLmRvCFl6TQgy-BTcQn7hUYW1osBpkezgdwMapI8/s1600/tubing.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-80164210141193511982012-11-20T23:04:00.000-05:002012-11-20T23:04:17.908-05:00SkaDaMo Day 17<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MIKNHUpQGIqmY-fF19J_PuyKs10OrngZRkGlg1baLgOjTlnjeFVRHxyjmcIOBhyxps7irDLnj4WaE-DlNTXy9AwO_RuMdQd2FWpL1hv6_zw_CZ8qi2xJhnxAv98aD9XMBXlbJvGZb0z6/s1600/Thankful-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MIKNHUpQGIqmY-fF19J_PuyKs10OrngZRkGlg1baLgOjTlnjeFVRHxyjmcIOBhyxps7irDLnj4WaE-DlNTXy9AwO_RuMdQd2FWpL1hv6_zw_CZ8qi2xJhnxAv98aD9XMBXlbJvGZb0z6/s1600/Thankful-17.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-43126550847437342512012-11-16T21:10:00.000-05:002012-11-16T21:10:10.721-05:00SkaDaMO Day 16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge369023B6It_QVbJm9jme_8sE1kXqKnjGAnOetInS4qb70Ks5S2jXxiAZwHAQ-AQZI16pF2J_ORMpk7opWUpySEPXVKtMvloHxi8_sOEK9Dw6X4YJ8eG5VpOMKFpJf2kq67RAuo0EWJCu/s1600/vanity+skunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge369023B6It_QVbJm9jme_8sE1kXqKnjGAnOetInS4qb70Ks5S2jXxiAZwHAQ-AQZI16pF2J_ORMpk7opWUpySEPXVKtMvloHxi8_sOEK9Dw6X4YJ8eG5VpOMKFpJf2kq67RAuo0EWJCu/s1600/vanity+skunk.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-28865800077329094772012-11-15T21:55:00.004-05:002012-11-15T21:55:58.483-05:00SkaDaMo Day 14<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Pxx2cOoRB56dcnyfn9tf2r15qesvkMBhl0DGu-itFJXe_TKHfS-WehVpZzvnzKhpDLzOZ8IM-lB_F88PM1u1TCWsdDQ7sYsuL97pYCpOfrejGKTXu5LlIHiJshEj6I7e8cASa9ic-6sQ/s1600/dancing+skunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Pxx2cOoRB56dcnyfn9tf2r15qesvkMBhl0DGu-itFJXe_TKHfS-WehVpZzvnzKhpDLzOZ8IM-lB_F88PM1u1TCWsdDQ7sYsuL97pYCpOfrejGKTXu5LlIHiJshEj6I7e8cASa9ic-6sQ/s1600/dancing+skunk.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8480262284780959573.post-13969548374959329122012-11-15T21:21:00.002-05:002012-11-15T21:21:31.646-05:00SkaDaMo Day 15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5o1bWyD7M43-27de-l3kaON5TXJTy8hYOmNf6OghWGtSQsD0iAnu3wanHEjDTY9MgW72wkI6SUo46cuLXvQDu0_x_q68JlPDSYvbFYA3g3fZJ3__TQa36bTyXgeQ5OUgwe13EqojQZR-y/s1600/recycled+mouse+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5o1bWyD7M43-27de-l3kaON5TXJTy8hYOmNf6OghWGtSQsD0iAnu3wanHEjDTY9MgW72wkI6SUo46cuLXvQDu0_x_q68JlPDSYvbFYA3g3fZJ3__TQa36bTyXgeQ5OUgwe13EqojQZR-y/s1600/recycled+mouse+house.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
November 15th is America Recycles Day...And you wondered what happened to your old shoe boxes!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3