Starstruck, or Quarantine Chic?

I guess you could say we're a little bit star struck over here. 

It might be because my author-illustrator debut THE STARKEEPER 

is almost out into the world, 

and everything is upside down, 

and everybody's stuck at home. 

Or maybe it's just because I love creating and celebrating. 

So, we made star pillows! 

Up-cycled out of what we already had, a velvety shirt, a funky velour,  60s chenille.  

They might look a little bit like starfish, but shh! We won't tell them that. 

They are very proud to be here and keep the books and kitties company. 

We also painted shoes...

with stars, of course!

Viva quarantine creativity! 

Illustrating June, and an interview!

Quack.
Hello from the ducks.
We live below a wetland and we have ducks that waddle through every Spring, perch on the roof, and nap in our spongy backyard.
When I found out I was to be the featured illustrator for Puddle Jump Collective's June calendar, it had to be ducks.
At first, I thought I'd go back to my early 90's days and draw a punk girl.

But then I drew this braid girl,

and she seemed to want to be in this picture as much or more than the other girl.
So I put it to a vote on instagram, and braid girl won the polls
and ended up in the final illustration.
Puddle Jump also hosted me for an interview  and a mini studio tour. I hope you like it.

On perfection

Advice from my incredibly insightful agent Molly O'Neill. 

So, this is how we dance with perfectionism and fear - 

jump in and do the best we can do - 

today. 

Because we can only ever be as good 

as we can be in this moment. 

And that is enough.

I'm off for a few weeks to finish my deadline, 

blinders on, hopefully, 

nose to the grindstone, 

remembering not to stick my paintbrush in my coffee cup.

If I can, I'll check in briefly 

about this thrilling picture book process. 

Fingers crossed, etc! : )

Here’s to the best you make today, lovies! 

Wish

Writers, illustrators, creatives, this is for you: 

Here's to a new year, 
a new page,
a new chapter. 

May you be blessed with bright and deep,
thoughtful and melodic,
magical and compelling.

Here's to all the stories you hold within you,
to all the books you're just about to write, 
the music you're just about to make,
the beauty you are meant to create.

May you have a year of years. 

A cornucopia of creating.

Also, no pressure. 

Bea and Jules, Day 25!

Happy Advent!

Happy Christmas!

-

from Jules and Charlie

and Bea -

and me.