Tuesday night is Studio Night. But first off, some great news… in the form of reviews!
If you work in children’s publishing, you know the power of a good review from notoriously tough Kirkus. I hope this helps get our book about climate change into the hands of more kids, families, and educators. And that it can be one small part of making a difference.
In The Before-times, Tuesday nights were free of distractions and I created at will. These days, everyone’s home ALL the time, but I’ve asked to continue this Tuesday night tradition. (It’s Ok to ask for what you need, and it’s Ok to feel positive about getting it. It’s especially Ok to be grateful to thank those around you who are doing their best to comply and to be patient otherwise. Cuz none of us chose these circumstances, and we’re not toddlers, are we?)
(Well, some of us are. I was enraged and disgusted today that a local beloved icon, an employer of our teenagers, and a business that brings customers to other businesses in town had to close for the season because a couple of entitled, coddled, toddler customers didn’t get their way when they went for ice cream. And because others have refused to wear masks for the greater good and have abused our local teenage workers. SHAME on them all. Anyway, I digress….)
This week, I finished my illustration contributions for The Writer’s Loft ocean poetry anthology. I’m thrilled to be invited to contribute and to have my work alongside so many great writers and illustrators! I can’t share my pieces online, yet I will share this tiny snippet:
So, it’s Tuesday night, and the evening is mine to bounce around in. Let’s see where that leads. I have new book ideas I’m excited to work on! And new science graphics to do! And collaborations to muse upon.!
…And now, because it’s hard to get anything done on time these days, it’s Wednesday. I may just spend the night creating again. Because I’m not going anywhere…
Last night, I started making a map of the Arctic, just for fun. Just to experiment with techniques. And because I like imagining being in the icy places.
Let’s see what tonight brings. I hope this inspires you to give yourself permission to ask for space and time to create.
I need music to get me going. This is what’s on repeat tonight. Create on, friends!