Out of my artistic comfort zone!

"I should take a writing and marketing course," I thought. It sounded like a good idea at the time. So, being an overachiever, I jumped off the deep end into a crash-course in all things marketing. In 3 weeks I transformed from a stay-at-home mom into "Momtrepreneur." These babies were born: my NC blog, Kidz Bookz website, Facebook & Twitter Accounts, ideas for 20 new children's books, and plans to teach a 4-week course on being an artist. In the midst of this maelstrom-of-my-own-making, I attended a Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators conference (highly recommend). "How did you do all that in 3 weeks?" several people have asked me. The answer is: a challenging mentor, willingness to try something new, being inspired by other writers, imagination, rediscovering my passion for writing and art, and getting 6 hours of sleep a night. "But, how do working moms find time to write?" someone else wanted to know. Here are some post-it-note-worthy ideas that may help: Prioritize the hell out of your schedule. Eliminate the unneccesary. Get help (mental or a maid)! Make sure your family are well cared for, so you don't feel guilty. Let the housework go. Give yourself permission to embrace your artistic passion and take yourself seriously. Get 6 hours of sleep a night.
May you be blessed in your artistic journey. May you find inspiration and joy. May it lead you to new and intriguing places within. And, may you enjoy many a late night writing session at Starbucks!

Inspired by a children's book writers conference!

I was very inspired by my first Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCWBI) conference. It was so nice to connect with people who are doing the same thing I am doing. Writing can be such an isolated activity. What a great support group--I had no idea! And FUN. They were no buttoned-up serious, scowly folks brandishing pens and fighting over comma placement. The best was the opportunity to meet & connect with real-life editors. Hope of being published is born anew!
I have been writing like a crazy woman! Now, instead of 20 unfinished manuscripts on my desk, there are 40! Is that progress? (LOL) All are in various states of completion--some just a title or idea, some 50%, and 4 are done and sent via email to the copyright office. Progress!
May you be inspired this week!