Monday, November 22, 2010

NAEA National Convention

I was selected to be a presenter at the 2011 NAEA (National Art Educators Association) National Convention in March. I am doing a hands on demonstration on Acrylic Dot Painting – A Unique Technique Used to Illustrate Children’s Books. 

This is a really big deal for me since they accepted a little more than half of thousands of applicants. I love speaking in front of people especially when it's a topic I know well. I get to talk about how I paint and how I teach the technique to kids - how cool is that? And, I get to go to Seattle to do this and see my good friend and brother. And, I get to meet my publisher at the convention. And...do I sound like a kid sitting on Santa's lap? And, I want a pony, and a Barbie...

Tee Hee.


Tuesday, November 9, 2010

In Loving Memory of a Dear Friend

This is my beautiful Kiwi, she has been sick for several months.

Today, I gave her a gift and let her go. She has been a wonderful friend for almost 16 years. I wish I could explain how much she meant to me, but it's hard to put it into words.

Kiwi was always there to warm my feet. She knew when I was sad and she'd hover around me to let me know she was there if I needed love. She greeted me every morning with a chirp, and asked me everyday to slow down for just a little bit, so she could curl up in my lap. She gave me comfort and joy. I hope I gave her half as much as she gave me. I gave a piece of my heart to her and hope she is waiting for me in a greater place when it's my turn. 

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

The Lion Within one-liner

Once again, I'm working on my pitch for my YA novel. I have entered a couple of contests, not following the rules lately, needless to say nothing will probably come of any of it. After my last conference critique I'm changing my plot --again. The pitch seems to be easier to write after I mapped out my revisions. It is still rough because heaven forbid I get it right on the eighty-th try.

Worse than being attacked by a super-natural lion and becoming part-feline, 15 year old Renna must attend high school in Wisonconsin, still unable control her inner beast, she must lie and kill to finally tame her lion within.


On a different note, I'm starting to work hard on my illustrations for my next picture book. I received great feedback from my publisher and his designer and I'm excited to move forward with more purpose.