Sheila Jarkins

Substitute Teaching

2011-12-04T06:23:00.001-08:00

When I stopped teaching art full time, I devoted my time writing
and illustrating children's books. I got a lot of ideas from
my own childhood, my children's childhood and being around
my grandchildren. Since my grandchildren live in Atlanta, I wanted
a venue where I would be around kids more often and be be a part
of the contemporary issues that interest kids and influence kids.
I tried working part time in a day care and loved being with the babies
and toddlers, but I realized that substitute teaching would better
fulfill my creative and intellectual needs.

I have been substitute teaching for three years exclusively at the
Pal-Mac School District. It feels like full time, because I get a job
almost every day. I teach children in all grade levels and subjects.
I have learned a lot and the kids inspire and challenge me!

One of my favorite grade levels is 6th grade. The kids are energetic
and zany. They are still like first graders in many ways, affectionate and
full of wonder. Yet, their intellectual growth is on the cusp of complex
abstract thinking. Emotionally, they are darting in many directions.

Since substituting, I have read a myriad of mid-grade novels. I have been
working on a few mid-grades and my writing is better for my teaching.

Me reading to the class

Nothing distracts one student avidly reading

One way to absorb Newton's three laws of motion

Would you trust these two with scissors?

Scene stealer

Hands on science project

Typical 6th grade behavior

Night of Lights at Preferred Plants 2011

2011-12-04T05:38:00.001-08:00

My daughter, Michele, works at Preferred Plants,
an interior design retail business, specializing in
individually created silk flower arrangements and wreaths.
Additionally, the store features unique furniture, statuary,
ceramic novelties, vases and pots. Michele is a master at
making beautiful wreaths of all sizes and flower arrangements.

On Friday, Nov.18, Preferred Plants held their annual
Night of Lights to hail in the holiday season. The store was
glowing with gift giving ideas and a buffet of wonderful
cheeses and wine. Gary and I really enjoyed the event!

Michele, with her wreath designs, and owner, Inara

Gary's bird carvings on display

Me in front of one of the displays

July 4th, 2011

2011-12-04T04:37:00.001-08:00

Erik and his family drove sixteen hours straight, stops
for meals and potty time included, to visit us in NY,
That's an amazing feat with three small children!

They spent the week here. We were on the go every
minute, swimming, water tubing on Keuka Lake,
playing bocce ball, visiting the Children's Museum,
reading, drawing, painting, and eating, eating, eating
to keep the energy flowing.

I had a few toys for Ty and CD's to play, but Ty loved
just being creative with towels and seed packets. He
would hide them, stack them, put them in the box
and take them out of the box over and over.
Who needs toys!

Ty and Taylor

Anna, good shot!

Look at the camera

Seed pack play

Towel play

Grandpa and Ty

Ship at the children's museum

Children's museum - story/music presentation

Children's museum train ride

Children's museum merry-go-round

Children's museum - super heroes, Anna and Taylor

Easter 2011

2011-12-03T18:15:00.001-08:00

On our visit to Atlanta for Easter we spontaneously
took some photos on my son's front steps. It was such
a beautiful day, my daughter, Michele, flew down for the
holiday, and the kids were freshly scrubbed and dressed
(it didn't last), so we simply took advantage of the moment!

My son and family

Me, daughter, Michele, Ty and Tay

Michele and her nieces and nephew

The three grandkids

The Easter Gang including Emily's Mom and Dad and
of course, Beni (Woof, woof)

Ty later in the day! Did you ever see a happier face?
Love this baby!!

New Marco Book

2011-12-03T17:17:00.001-08:00

Marco Flamingo in the Jungle

My new book in the Marco series was released in
the Spring of 2011.

As stated on my web page, www.sheilajarkins.com

"Once again Marco has an exciting adventure.

It is Marco’s birthday and he receives an invitation

from his friend, E. E. Elephant, to visit him in the

jungle.

Marco has quite a harrowing boat trip across the

ocean, but arrives in the jungle safely. His friend,

Elephant takes him to the watering hole to cool off

after his trip. Then Marco has a great time laughing

with Hyena, finding buried treasure with Ostrich

and even roaring with Lion.

At the end of the story there is a big surprise.

Another birthday wish comes true for Marco.

The illustrations fill the pages with colorful jungle

scenes and action.Marco’s facial expressions capture

his excitement and moods."

The book is available from the publisher,

Raven Tree Press, Amazon, and bookstores.

Decatur Book Fest

2011-12-03T12:42:00.001-08:00

Labor Day Weekend, 9/2-9/4 2011

My husband and I and our son's family went to the Decatur
Book Fest on one of the hottest days in Atlanta. It was over
100 degrees! It was amazing that we lasted three hours,
but there was so much for the kids to do and wonderful
presentations on stage in the tent that the kids just didn't
want to leave. We tried to beat the crowds to the seats by
the fans. Don't you think a festival in Atlanta should be
indoors with air conditioning?

Never the less we made it work. Taylor was soooo excited
to meet Judy Schachner, author of the Skippyjon Jones
series of picture books. And even more excited to get a picture
taken of her with the author.

Laura Murray gave a "sweet" presentation based on her book,
The Gingerbread Man Escapes from the Bakery. And my little
grandson, Ty, who is one year old, loved hearing the music
in singer/songwriter, Caroline Herring's presentation.

Anna and Taylor hoola hooped, Ty ate crackers, and the adults
stayed under the tree! Our rosy cheeks are due to the heat,
not a healthy complexion!

Taylor and author Judy Schachner

Author, Laura Murray

Caroline Henney's presentation

Anna and Taylor

Me, Ty, and husband, Gary

2011-01-27T17:55:00.000-08:00

Visit to Atlanta

We drove (yuck)-- I hate the long drive, but it's hard

to fly when we have loads of Christmas gifts and luggage

for a month. We planned a short hop to Florida or

Charleston also. We actually did make it to Charleston

for four days.

It was great seeing our son, Erik, Emily and the three

grand kids. We hadn't seen them since September and Ty,

(7 mo) was crawling and pulling himself up, cruising along

the furniture and climbing stairs. He is a charmer. Adorable.

And cuddly. He amuses his sisters, Anna and Taylor, with

his antics.

Anna loved the painting set we gave her---also Taylor

Erik finished the basement, so now we have our own bedroom,

bath and family room to get some peace and quiet. Yeah, right!!

With three kids in the house!!! And the drum set in the basement.

It was an eventful visit. First, Gary and I got the stomach virus

(sick for four days). Erik got it too. Then the Atlanta ice storm hit.

Schools were closed for the week and Emily got to stay home

(her office shut down also). She was happy about that. But, the

last few weeks rolled along happily. We also saw the animated

children's film, Despicable Me four times! I'm still not tired of it.

Loved every minute of baby sitting Ty.

2011-01-27T17:25:00.000-08:00

Holiday Signing

Lift Bridge Book Shop

December 11, 2010

Main Street, Brockport, New York

I joined fellow authors and illustrators from RACWI

at this book signing event. I chugged down glasses of

cider and ate fistfuls of cookies (well, more than a few).

Joe Sottile greeted customers in his quirky,

humorous way.

Robert Snead had his display next to mine, so we did

a lot of catching up. I hadn't seen him in a while.

Of course I browsed through books and bought a few gifts.

Vivian Vande Velde took a lot of photos, so here is the link

if you are interested in seeing more of the authors/illustrators

present. Thank you, Vivian.

2010-11-21T06:58:00.000-08:00

Weekend in Pittsburgh

(Nov 12, 13, 14)

Gary, my husband, and I drove to Pittsburgh on

Friday morning to enjoy a weekend in this three

river city. The weather was an unexpected treat

for this time of year. Dry roads and clear, sunny

skies.

I attended the Western Pennsylvania SCBWI

conference on Saturday, Nov. 13. Click the link

to view the schedule, presenters and workshops.

One of my manuscripts, Asha's Journey, was

critiqued by Deborah Vetter. She offered many

suggestions that guided me in a fresh edit which

I did when I got home. I did feel overwhelmed

when I got home from all the input and, yes,

discouraging news about the economy's affect on

the publishing business, but energized none the less.

As Pat Easton, regional advisor, stated in her opening

address, she writes in the basement so that she doesn't

jump out the window! It was great meeting her and

connecting to all the organizers, new writers, illustrators,

editors and agent, Quinlan Lee of Adams Literacy,

that I met.

I had the added pleasure of sitting next to Ms. Vetter

at lunch. I learned a lot about her life and her

experiences as executive editor for Cicada. We had

a humorous conversation about "green burial." How

and why I brought up that topic is gratefully forgotten.

But, actually, everyone at the table had fun with the

topic. No one had ever heard of green burial as an

option to casket or cremation. And Ms. Vetter was

delighted that it existed! Here is a link for those

interested in reading an interview with Deborah Vetter

(Sept. 2006).

I have also been researching agents, and have submitted

to one, but after going to Quinlan Lee's talk, I am very

interested in submitting to her. I felt a connection and

loved her energy. She also made a clever analogy that

an agent is sometimes a stager. Before selling a house

one must present the house in the best light. Maybe

some repairs are needed. Or updates. Or coats of fresh

paint. Maybe a few new items. Well, manuscripts need

to be staged for the editors she feels are right for the

manuscript and often manuscripts need a little work

before she sells it. I like that and I like that she is on top

of all the editor moves in the industry, negotiates contracts

and manages one's career. All worth 15% in my opinion.

Quinlan Lee stated that she is a middle grade junkie, so

I'm eager to work on my MG novels.

Saturday night, Gary and I went to Heinz Hall to hear

Rags to Ritzes: The Music of Irving Berlin. Conductor,

Jack Everly, led the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in a

rich selection of music with vocalists Ashley Brown, Ted

Keegan, Natasha Yvette Williams, Tony Desare and Eric

LaJuan Summers. There truly is "No Business like Show

Business." What would this world be like without music!

That's what I dislike most about winter. No birds signing

in the dawn. Well, where I live, anyway!

RCBF

2010-11-07T13:24:00.000-08:00

RCBF

(Rochester Children's Book Festival)

11/6/2010 Monroe Community College

I had a fantastic time! There were many authors new

to the event. How lucky can I get being in one place

with so many authors and illustrators. The energy was

electric. I meet friends I haven't seen in awhile

and former students.

Below are some of the authors and illustrators at the

festival and some friends and children I met.

My third year at the book festival.

A little 3 year asked me for my autograph, then I

asked her for hers. Carly not only gave me her

autograph, but her drawing of a flamingo!

Paul Zelinsky, illustrator

Author Linda Sue Park

Author/illustrator Will Hubbell

aka Morgan Howell

Author, Vivian Vande Velde

Author Rafe Martin

Barb and her Daughter Val ( Barb and I worked together

at the Gananda School district. I taught her daughter.

Now she's married!!!)

Katie Davis, author/illustrator

Marsha Hayles, author

Kathy and her Grandson Alex (taught Alex art).

Elizabeth Bluemle, author

Robin Pulver, author

Rose Kent, author

Suzanne Bloom, author/illustrator

Faith is one of my 5th grade students at PalMac

where I sub.

Author Jane Yolen and author/illustrator Mark Teague

London Ladd, illustrator

Author, James Howe

Riley, 3rd grader, loves Marco!

Author, Bruce Coville

Event

2010-11-07T12:45:00.000-08:00

Holiday Event 11/4/2010

at the Fairport Pharmacy

122 Fairport Village Landing

Fran Wells directs the art gallery at the store.

She has done a fantastic job of promoting area

artists and artisans. Come and browse and perhaps

find that perfect gift!

My Marco book and prints are available all year long.

It was great to see Christine again. We had taken

painting classes together in the past. She does wonderful

watercolors. I bought one. I love having art in my home

created by friends. Here is her website.

Gary and his exquisite shorebirds and other bird carvings.

Met Lorraine that evening. She is a wild

and crazy woman. Her art work is very expressive too!

Check out her website.

2010-11-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

My Fourth Marco Book

I finished the cover illustration for the 4th Marco book,

The adventures of Marco Flamingo in a Cave.

It has been approved with no changes. Yes!!

November Events

Fairport Pharmacy Holiday Sale, Nov. 4, 6-8PM

Located above the Fairport Library, the Pharmacy features

a gallery of original art by local artists. I will be selling my

first two Marco books and prints from the original illustrations.

Stop by and get some wonderful gifts for the Holidays.

Rochester Children's Book Festival, Nov. 6, 10-4 PM

Come and meet area authors and illustrators. Activities for

the kids and author readings. I will be selling and signing

my books. My prints available also.

Shopper's Showcase, Nov. 20, Canandaigua Academy Cafeteria

Venders will be there with their merchandise--jewelry, crafts,

books, art and much more. I will be selling and signing my books

and prints. This is a big event with a unique variety of products.

2010-11-01T11:30:00.000-07:00

Two New Critique Members

Rosalie Gabbert and Deb Cote are the newest members

of our writing critique group. Now we are five. I think

it's a perfect number--great for getting various viewpoints

and insights. We meet once a month which gives us time

to send new work electronically, review the work and

then discuss at the meeting.

Rosalie brings her years of educational experience and

and down to earth good sense and Deb brings her business

experience and ability to craft the tightest of manuscripts.

Welcome aboard, Rosalie (left) and Deb (right)!

2010-11-01T08:41:00.000-07:00

Author Sharon Creech

website

I am in the process of writing two YA novels. It is a

daunting task to complete when my characters run in

every direction and I lose the momentum of my story.

When that happens I turn to successful children's writer's

who have somehow learned to reign in their characters

and complete a novel with clarity, direction, lively pacing

and a plot without 100 sub plots.

I chose to read Sharon Creech's novels. After reading

Walk Two Moons (1994), The Wanderer (2000)

and Granny Torrelli Makes Soup (2003) many years ago,

I felt very connected to this writer's style, dialog and humor.

So, I just recently read:

Bloomability (1998)

Chasing Redbird (1997)

Absolutely Normal Chaos (1990)

Love that Dog (2001)

Hate That Cat (2008)

Ruby Holler (2002)

Replay (2005)

The Castle Corona (2007)

The Unfinished Angel (2009)

Heartbeat (2004)

Pleasing the Ghost (1996)

I am amazed at her creativity! If you want your kids or

students to love poetry, introduce them to Love That Dog

and Hate That Cat (sequel). The little boy, Jack, starts out

hating and feeling intimidated by the teacher exhibiting his

poems. He grows to become enamored by poetry and

poets. Eventually, his own poems give him an avenue to

express his feeling, process his grief and gain confidence

in his endeavors.

Reading Sharon Creech gave me the confidence and

inspiration to forge ahead in my own writing.

I'm on to reading Karen Cushman's books. I loved

The Midwife's Apprentice. She is a master at character

development and historical setting. She has six more novels

that I need to read. Winter in New York State is a great time

to sit by a fire and read! (I will throw in a few adult books

as well).

2010-11-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

Love Corning, NY

In September we took a day trip to Corning during their

Fall Festival. Cousins Karen and John joined us. We walked

the retail area, had lunch at "Donna's and went to antique shops.

Cousin Karen and I outside "Donna's" Restaurant. Below:

Karen and John, Gary and I, and Donna, the owner (purple blouse).

2010-08-18T17:31:00.000-07:00

Newbery author Linda Sue Park

The year I joined RACWI (Rochester Area Children's

Writer's and Illustrators) Linda Sue, a member of the

group, won the Newbery (2002) for A Single Shard.

Since then Linda Sue has inspired me (and I'll bet,

everyone in the group, published and unpublished)

with her talent, warmth, intelligence, and unbounded

energy. She continuously helps others hone their

writing skills and shares what she has learned. I found

this section of her website about writing helpful.

There was a article in the Democrat and Chronicle

recently about Linda Sue that illustrates her world now

after winning the Newbery. Whew! She sure is busy!

2010-08-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

NEWSFLASH

My friend and member of our critique group,

Jennifer Burrows, just signed a contract for her first

chapter book, Most Beautiful, with Royal Fireworks

Press in Unionville, NY. Congratulations, Jennifer,

on this outstanding accomplishment. You have worked

hard and you deserve it. No details yet on the release date.

It will be exciting for me to follow the process of this book.

Family Time

Gary and I enjoy having friends and relatives visit at our cabin.

Last week cousin Alice from Cleveland, came for a few days.

She loves fishing. Even though the catch was released (too small)

just being on the serene lake was a much needed vacation for her

before starting back teaching in a few weeks.

Michele, our daughter, enjoyed time with Alice and spending a

relaxing day. She is a very creative artist and designs flower

arrangements and wreaths for Preferred Plants in Rochester.

Palmyra Pirate Days

Again this year, I signed books, along with other authors, at

this yearly event in Palmyra.

Some little pirates.

Me and some of the other authors signing books at the event.

2010-08-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

New Contract

I just signed the contract with Raven Tree Press for a

fourth Marco adventure. This time Marco and his friends

will have a cave adventure. Marco has become so "real"

to me that I breezed through the manuscript and sketches

in one weekend. This is not the norm. But, I was at our

cabin on the lake where I have few distractions and the

soothing sound of the water kept me in a rhythm.

Marco's adventures in the Jungle will be out in March 2011

and Marco's adventures in a Cave is planned for Fall 2011.

Life is good!

After getting back from Hilton Head, Savannah, Atlanta and

a cousins reunion in Cleveland, I spent the last two days

sending out manuscripts to various publishing houses. I get

intensely committed to staying "on track" with my writing

after a respite. But, enjoying life and family and friends

gives me a rest from thinking about stories and actually

living a story.

Hilton Head: Me and my granddaughter, Anna

Hilton Head: Ty is only 10 weeks old and already enjoys

looking at books. I read this book to him three times before

he lost interest!

Hilton Head: Granddaughter, Taylor

Savannah

Savannah Riverfront

Savannah

Cousins reunion in Cleveland: Alice, Me and Karen

New experiences also feed my soul. And taking time to really

look helps me appreciate the beauty and design in nature.

I have never seen lichen in bloom. This design reminds me of

a Christmas wreath.

I really want to paint more this month. Thank goodness I have

a husband who loves to weed or I would be living in a jungle!

We have both been eating out of jar of mixed nuts for dinner

rather than take time to cook anything.

Gary finished another carving. He's amazing!

USA Book News Best Book Award

Jeannie Patchin, Vice President of Delta Publishing / Raven

Tree Press, submitted my book, Marco Flamingo Under the Sea

for this award. Meanwhile, my book is now one of the books

featured at their website. As Jeanne states:

"This listing will be live for 5 months. The National “Best Books

2010” Awards are specifically designed to garner media coverage

and book sales for the winners & finalists throughout the 2010

holiday retail season and 2011! Winners & finalists will be

announced October 2010 and I will let you know the outcome.

USABookNews.com is currently listed on thousands of book related

-websites and welcomes thousands of visitors per month!

Great publicity!"

Thank you, Jeanne, for submitting my book!

2010-07-01T05:19:00.000-07:00

Busy May and June

We traveled back to Atlanta for a few weeks for the birth

of our third grandchild, Ty Daniel. It was such a joyful time!

Unfortunately, I somehow erased all the photos on my

digital camera, so I'm posting some from my son and

daughter-in-laws blog. I have learned that there is a way

to retrieve the files on the memory card, but that is beyond

my know-how.

Baby Ty on Birth Day May 13

Anna and Taylor with their new brother

June photo

Fairport Canal Days - June 5th and 6th

I sold my books and prints from my book illustrations,

Stephanie sold her puppets and Lori sold a variety of her

art creations. Her Mother, Carol also sold her art work.

The weather was touch and go, but we had a blast!

Our booth: Art Mash (Stephanie, Lori and Me)

Steph's puppet and my Marco had a lot to talk about!

Sunday was a wash out-wind and rain kept the crowds away

until the afternoon -- Carol and I had to amuse ourselves somehow.

We had stopped over to the Fairport Library Book Sale and got

bags of books for two dollars. One was a biography of

Susan B. Anthony which Ms. Puppet read to us.

I was tried and fell asleep in the chair, right after telling Carol

I could never sleep sitting up. I must have been exhausted.

The gang took full advantage of my unconsciousness and

parked puppets on my shoulders. Too funny! Thank you

ladies for being so playful that day. It made for a great

time together!

Ode to my Editor

I was heartbroken to learn that my editor, Dawn Jeffers of

Raven Tree Press resigned. We had established a wonderful

professional and personal relationship. How can I thank her

enough for launching my career in Children's Books.

I am grateful for the time we spent in the publication of the

first two Marco adventures. She had a role in the third book

also, but now I am working with Linda Bruell on the

completion. Here is one of the spreads from the adventures

of Marco Flamingo in the Jungle which will be released in

Spring 2011. I am now going to be working with Linda

on the 4th book in the series. Thank you, Linda.

Marco playing ring toss

2010-04-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

Book Fair at the

Alling Coverlet Museum

John Cielinski, owner of Books, ETC in Macedon and

Marcia Marseille, owner of the Village Book Market in

Palmyra teamed with the Alling Coverlet Museum in

Palmyra to present "Books, Authors and Friends," on

Apr. 17 and 18.

Hopefully this will become and annual event. I met many

new authors and reunited with authors from past events.

I enjoyed the energy, commaderie and lively discussions.

Let me tell you a little bit about some of the authors:

Eileen Loveman

Author of "Rhythms and Rhymes of the Heart." "A Surrender

to the Moon" and "George and Bob Stories." I had met Eileen

before and we finally got together for dinner after the event!

Check out her site.

Eileen Loveman, John Cielinski, Sally Valentine

Sally Valentine

Author of "The Ghost of the Charlotte Lighthouse,"

"Theft at George Eastman House," and "What Stinks."

Her books are mysteries for middle grade readers.

Read more about Sally at www.rochesterauthor.com.

Den Linnchan

Author/photographer of nature books NYS:

"Adirondack Dawn"

"New York State Splendor"

"The Finger Lakes: Nature's Beauty"

If you visit the Adirondacks check out Hoss's Country Corner

on Long Lake to see Len's books.

Mary Beth Egeling

A licensed massage therapist, Mary Beth compiled personal

testimonies that inspired her to write about the wisdom and

innate talents in all of us. Her book, "Messages from My Hands,"

is about self discovery and personal growth. I must read this!

A second book, "Love-Abouts," explores daily rituals that may

enrich your life and deepen relationships. This book makes a

wonder gift.

Susan Baruch

Susan's debut novel, "Paternity," brings together a multicultural

group into one complicated extended family. Susan has many

writing credits, including essays and poetry. Learn more on her

blog.

Gary L. Fitzpatrick

Gary has many serious history and reference books to

his credit and other genres. He worked for over thirty

years in the Geography and map division of the

Library of Congress, lived in Hawaii and taught at the

University of Hawaii.

Some of his books include:

Islands, Codes and Vampires

( a satire inspired by his family's connections

to Transylvania and his eight trips there.)

The Early Mapping of Hawai’i

Surveying the Mahele (with Riley M. Moffat)

Mapping the Lands and Waters of Hawai’i

(with Riley M. Moffat)

International Time Tables

Direct-Line Distances (with Marilyn Modlin)

Ruth Rosenberg-Naparsteck

Ruth Rosenberg-Naparsteck and Rose O'Keefe

Ruth has over twenty books on regional history and teaches American

History at R.I.T. She also founded Heron's Bend Productions. There

is a link to her book "The Erie Canal" on this site.

Rose O'Keefe

After buying an 1865 cottage in the South Wedge in 1976, Rose began

research of the area. She wrote for The Wedge a newspaper dedicated

to that area and wrote her first Arcadia book "Rochester's South Wedge."

Brooks Tenney

Brooks and I traded books at the fair. Of course

"Marco Flamingo" is an easier read than "New Silk Road!"

Brooks also wrote "The Ten Thousand Things."

Both novels center around the intrigue of the drug

and weapons trade.

There were other vendors at the fair who kept all of us

deliciously fed! And more who displayed their business

products and crafts:

Carol & Curt Schreiner

Hand crafted, wire wrapped and silverware jewelry

Amber Shultz

Amber is a distributor of essential oils through

Young Living. She is a vibrant personality that

is dedicated to whole body wellness. Just a whiff

of the peppermint oil snapped me out off my morning

grogginess better than the coffee I was drinking.

Veronique Cheniaux

Vero is a crochet artist who creates colorful hats, scarves, purses

and jewelry. I am keeping her in mind for holiday gifts!

2010-04-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

Lima Primary School Presentation

Tammy Pulver and me.

On Monday, April 12th, I did an author/illustrator program for

the K-1 students at Lima Primary. I was invited by the librarian,

Tammy Pulver.

The focus of my interactive program was on the different ways

to communicate a story, building a story and drawing animals

characters for a story.

I had a fantastic time! The students were enthusiatic and

engaged. We sang, danced, mimed, and drew. I signed books

at the end of each presentation and had some of my original art

to view.

The school is enchanting. I visited many classrooms and met

the teachers. The student's writing and art is commendable.

Kids are learning Spanish; Marco has a bilingual edition.

I want to thank the staff for a smooth show, for their

hospitality and for their help every step of the way:

Jeanine Lupisella (Principal)

Tammy Pulver (Librarian) She knows the books kids love.

Cathy Hoose ( Library Paraprofessional) who took fantastic

photos of the event.

Scott VanHouter (Custodian) Thanks for the technical help!

Sarah Kamm (PTA Coordinator) The buffet was amazing.

Here are some photos of the event. Link to more photos taken

by Cathy. The pictures say it all.

2010-04-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

February, March and April News

The last week in February we travelled to Atlanta

to see my son, Erik, Emily and Grandkids. We then

Went to Brandeton/Sarasota for a month and back to

Atlanta to watch the kids on their school break.

We were on the go from morning till evening!

Here are are few pics (rest will be posted on facebook).

Making Easter cookies.

Taylor with bunny makeup.

Anna poring on the sprinkles.

Reading time, Taylor loves to make up stories.

Anna is an avid reader.

Art time.

Water play.

Gary on the slip n' slide.

Go Grandma! Oops, I hurt my knee.

Cuddle time.

Celebrating our 43rd Anniversary, April 8th at Maggioni's in

Atlanta with Erik, Emily (9th Anniversary April 21st).

New grandchild due May 13.

Some nature shots from our Florida

Snow Bird Get Away

The fishermen.

Terns on Lido Beach.

Dunes on Siesta Key Beach.

Aligator at Myakka River State Park.

American bald eagle nest on Honeymoon Island.

A colony of egrets.

Spent some time with friends Josie and Michael.

Visited Jeff and his boys, Colin and Ryan in Ft. Myers.

Visited Punta Gorda area.

Also visited friends in Punta Gorda-- Gary with Howard.

Venice, Florida.

The Ringley Art Museum, Sarasota: Saw exhibit on

Norman Rockwell and saw a play, Managing Maxine, at the

Asolo Theater, part of the Ringley Estate.

On the way back to Atlanta we stayed in a quaint little cottage

in Cedar Key.

And took in some of the shops and sites.

2010-04-23T06:54:00.000-07:00

Oaxaca, Mexico

Fellow retired art teacher Nancy Lyon and I enjoy

an annual gift exchange over the holidays at a favorite

restaurant. This year it didn't happen till February!

Nancy was away over Christmas on a Craft World

Tour in Oaxaca, Mexico. For me, December and

January were jam packed with working and activities.

Nancy has travelled at least once a year for over 30 years

to places around the world with Craft World Tours.

She has been to Myanmar, India, Guatemala, Uzbekistan

and Ecuador to name a few. Her home is adorned with

the native crafts of the countries she has visited.

Here we are at the India House in Victor. I look forward

to seeing the incredible photos she takes of her journeys.

She has created many portrait paintings from the photos

of the artizans.

2010-04-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

Art Opening at ROCO

Gary and I attended an art opening on Feb 6th at

ROCO (Rochester Contemporary Art Center).

Julianna Furlong Williams (my best friend in high school)

and her husband Judd Lawrence Williams (one of my art

instructors at R.I.T) were two of four artists exhibiting their

art in the annual "Mentors & Makers" show.

It was a huge success. I love Julie's works--they are

expressive, immediate and personal. Judd's sculptures

were a play of spacial relationships and color--fun to look

at and explore. Rather than ramble on about the event,

I've linked to an art review in the City Newspaper.

I also included some photos. First pic: Julie, me and Karen.

Second pic: Leslie (a friend from college), Julie and Julie's

sister Joyce.

2010-01-30T17:02:00.000-08:00

What a Difference a Week Makes!

Last Saturday, Gary and I went to Artizann's in Naples to

bring more of Gar's bird carvings, then drove over the hills

to our cabin. It was a beautiful day---rare here in January.

Almost 40 degrees and sunny! I feed the ducks corn, then

sat in the sun. Gar took in the rays too.

It was a day to enjoy....a day to look....a day to connect...

and a day to notice and appreciate. I looked at nature

for awhile through the frame of the camera. I selected and

snapped designs and compositions that seemed in perfect

harmony and balance. Maybe my sneakered foot even

had a place there---a humble artist capturing the exquisite

artistry of nature and natural materials that make my life

solid and peaceful.

This saturday it is frigid, but beautiful in it's own way.

But, not a day to sit in the sun.

2010-01-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

New Years Resolution Conference

January 9, 2010 / Syracuse New York

I am so glad I went to this conference! It wasn't overwhelming

as some large conferences can be. The presentations were also

timely. Even though the weather was freezing and snowy, the

five of us---Karen McDonald, Jennifer Burrows,

Stephanie Stussman, Roxane Chadwick and I---got there safely

(thank you Karen for driving).

Karen, me, Jennifer

Stephanie and Roxane with our illustrator's mailing

There were three presentations before the four breakout

sessions. First, Carla McClafferty, the author of many

non-fiction books, including Something Out of Nothing:

Marie Curie and Radium and In Defiance of Hitler:

The Secret Mission of Varian Fry, shared her process

and research methods. Even though I don't write

non-fiction, the process is similar to fiction pieces with

factual information. I am constantly researching facts

about animals and settings that I need in my fiction work.

I also search for photos for references. Carla was very

personable and thorough in her step by step approaches.

Carla signing during lunch.

Bob Dacey and Debra Bandelin, a husband and wife illustration

team, presented next. They have received numerous awards for

their children book illustrations. They passed around original

work to handle and see up close. I love layered texture and

color, so this was a treat. In the printing process much is lost

from the original painting. This couple was open and honest

about the "agony" of being driven to create. They wondered

why they were illustrators. Meeting deadlines was bad for their

health: junk food diets, no sleep, no socializing, edgy moods.

The comedy dynamics was fun to watch.

Illustrators, Bob and Debra can finally relax!

I was thrilled that Randi Rivers, editor from Charlesbridge,

was speaking at this conference and the primary reason

I attended. I had been researching Charlesbridge and

had heard positive things about them. Charlesbridge Publishing

published Yum! Yuck! written by Linda Sue Park, whom I

know through RACWI. I had already sent one manuscript,

A Brunch of Grumps, which I had addressed to the

"submissions editor." But, I prefer to address submissions to an

editor I have met. Conferences are a great way to meet editors

and match your work to a particular editor. When I know an

editor's personality, editorial skills, genre work, preferences,

and quirks, I can send more confidently.

Ms. Rivers spoke about how to get the most out of one's

submissions. I was familiar with a lot of the suggestions,

but learned a lot about submitting a synopsis for longer works,

which I have not needed to do yet.

After the three presentations, I chose the breakout session

"First Pages" to attend. It was lead by Ms. Rivers who actually

read the first pages rather than the authors. I thought that she

was amazing! After each reading she analyzed and assessed

strengths, gave reasons why she might continue reading

beyond the first page and offered suggestions. I felt connected

to her after that! I valued what she said and admired her skill.

I would love to work with her because of her intuitiveness and

insightfulness. Within a few days after the conference, I was so

pumped that I did a final edit of Lizzie and Isadora

(three chapter early reader), had a final critique, and made a few

more intuitive changes. And off it went! Addressed to

Randi Rivers, editor. I felt this manuscript was right for her and

Charlesbridge. It was a good match. That felt good. A submission

to a real person! And a submission to the right house. Doesn't

mean it'll get published. But, I did my research.

The night of the day I sent my manuscript, a butterfly was flying

around my studio. A butterfly! In my house! In the dead of winter!

In New York State! I'm not one to believe in "signs," but it was

unusual. Being the bug lover that I am, I made a syrup mixture

and put it on a leaf of a flowering plant. Then I gently placed the

butterfly on the leaf. The next day it was nowhere to be found.

How long does a butterfly live anyway?

2010-01-15T07:31:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Gary and I toasted in the new year with friends.

We all went to a movie and dinner, then gathered

at Sandra and Richard's home for drinks and desserts.

Top row L-R, John, Mari, Gary, Richard, Caroline

Bottom row L-R, Sandra, Me

Dave and Richard

Gary and I

We both welcomed the break from the long hours we had

dedicated to painting (me) and carving (Gary) during the month

of December. I used the two week school break from substitute

teaching to move ahead on illustrations. We were both on a

roll, getting a lot of work done. Some days I stayed in my

pajama's all day! Because I tend to multi-task too much, I had

made it a goal last year to focus on one project at a time for at

least two weeks. In December I painted 10 spreads (20 pages)

for Marco III and Gary carved six birds. Whew!!!

Gary in his workshop

Me in my corner

Gary's carvings

American Woodcock

Common Snipe

Loon

Illustrations for my new Marco book In the Jungle

release date Spring '11

...roaring with lion

...taking a mud baths with the hippos

...looking for buried treasure with ostrich

2009-12-29T09:47:00.000-08:00

Introducing...

Life Before.com

and Seven Women, Seven Lives

At a Christmas Eve Party, hosted by my friends

Diane and Jim Bold, I met Mary Lou Greisen,

a lively octogenarian who took a memoir writing class

taught by Cecilia Dejoy at Nazareth College. Along

with her classmates, their essays were compiled into

two books which are now published. They have had

book signings around town and the books are available

on Amazon and the Red Bird Cafe. Here are links to

info about the books: Life Before.com and

Seven Women, Seven Lives.

Mary Lou Greisen

Mary Lou raised seven children! Two of her sons that

I talked to should be on Comedy Central. Below is a

pic of Mark giving tummy kisses to the family dog,

Leilani. The dog"s deadpan expression is priceless.

Mark's wife, Kathleen made the most beautiful, artistic

Christmas cookies I have ever seen. They should be

framed and put on walls!

Mark and Kathleen

That evening was the first time I saw Diane and Jim's

first grandchild,Colton. What a cherub! Mama Kristen is in

heaven! Below are some photos of the evening.

Husband, Gary, and I

Diane, Kristen and Colton and below Jim with

his Christmas chef hat.

2009-12-24T13:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays

to all my Friends and Family!

May next year bring joy and creative energy.

Do the work you love to do! Believe and

wonder as a child.

Me at 3 years old. I do believe in Santa Claus

and always will. The world can be a magical place.

2009-12-21T04:49:00.000-08:00

September-November Activities

Very busy months for me. Time to catch up on posting.

I started substitute teaching in the Palmyra Macedon

School District--every subject K-12. The students

have inspired many ideas for my writing. I have

discovered and read many picture books and mid-

grade novels that have escaped my attention. Love

Scarecrow by Cynthia Rylant. Read it on this site.

Also read her mid-grade Missing May. Hatchet by

Gary Paulsen was a good read--it's also a Newbery

Honor Book. At the Poughkeepsie conference in June,

I met editor, Lisa Graff, and finally this Fall I read her

three novels: Umbrella Summer, The Thing About

Georgie, and The Life and Crimes of Bernetta Wallflower.

My brother, Bob, and sister-in-law, Jessie, flew in from

Nebraska for a visit. How great to see them! It's been

too long. We have many interests in common,

particularly enjoying the beauty of nature. So we went

to the Adirondacks to see the fall foliage. I had a miserable

cold, but plucked along in the rain on one of our walks.

Somehow the sky dripping from the clouds and my dripping

from my nose make the experience more memorable and

humorous. Doesn't my brother look like Walt Whitman?

I once again did a illustrator presentation for the Penn Yan

high school art students. My friend, Sherry Blanco Lutzen,

is the art teacher there. Here I am sharing an illustration for

my upcoming book, the Adventures of Marco Flamingo

in the Jungle to be released in Spring 2011, Raven Tree Press.

The cover art is below.

The RCBF on Nov. 7 was a huge success. It was

good to see some author/illustrators not there last year.

I sat next to Elizabeth Bluemle and bought her book,

How Do you Wokka-Wokka. I also sat next to

Linda Sue Park and bought her book Tap Dancing on

the Roof. I need a new bookcase!

Family Time

Gary and I spent Nov. 8-30 in Atlanta and Las Vegas visiting

family. It was great to see the grandkids again and Erik and

Emily. It won't be long till the new baby arrives---May!

It's a boy. So, we had fun throwing out names at the dinner

table. For a literary character how about Icabod Jarkins or

Rochester Jarkins? I'm sure we'll be surprised as we were with

"Anna" and "Taylor."

Along with Emily's mom, Susan, we went to see the Rockettes

Christmas Spectacular. Below see the girls all dressed up for

the event.

It was wonderful being in Atlanta for Thanksgiving and

Erik's b'day. I also visited the girl's schools. That was a treat.

Saw Taylor's Thanksgiving program and did a author

presentation for Taylor's preschool. Here is a pic of me

with Taylor and her teachers.

I'm so glad that the girls love books and reading. Grandpa is a

favorite reader. Even though Anna can read very well now,

she still loves to be read to.

We took five days out of that month from Atlanta to fly to

Las Vegas to visit my brothers. Hadn't seen them for years.

Greg took us to the Hoover Dam with it's impressive Art Deco

design and scenery.

We met my brother, Norm, at his condo. He then took us to the

Piute Indian Reservation's resort. The mountains are beautiful in

Vegas. What a peaceful setting!

We drove back home in the most stressful and congested

drivingwe have ever experienced. Warning to everyone.

Don't drive on the Sunday after Thanksgiving from Atlanta to

NYS ever!

Once home, I was thrown back into substitute teaching,

working on my writing and illustrating, reading, and exercising

(Gary and I decided to take advantage of our Go-Getters free

gym membership--sorry no pics here, especially of our

waistlines.)

I also did an author visit for the Holiday Open House at

Village Book Market in Palmyra. Authors, Eileen Loveman,

Sharon SanAngelo, and I were invited by the owner, Marsha,

to do a short video introducing our books. Without preparation

we did "our spot" on the spot....wheeeew.........

we all did pretty well. Except what's with my mouth?

I'm usually more animated than this. Looks like I'm trying

to push the words out of clenched lips. Well, it was the first time.

I should get better and more comfortable with more practice.

This business is all about risk taking! Here is my spot--

Sheila at Village Book Market.

2009-09-13T11:37:00.000-07:00

Marco's Back!

My new book in the Marco Flamingo series has just

been released. It is available in bookstores, on-line,

and at www.raventreepress.com. Send me an email

with any questions or for signed copies. I am available

for school visits. I'll be at the Rochester Children's

Book Festival on Nov. 7, 2009. More info on the

Festival to come.

My cat, Hunter, likes me to read to him. Or does

he just like the movement of the pages turning?

Here, he is just too interested in the stick to care!

2009-09-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

Palmyra Pirate Weekend

I spent a few hours on Sat. and Sun. Aug 8, 9 at the

booth shared by Books, ETC.(Macedon) and Village

Book Market (Palmyra) promoting Marco Flamingo

and talking with all the little pirates. What a hoot

watching the Pirate Puppy Parade!

I met two authors---always a treat.

Michael Pealo wrote August Storm, a journey of

an abused woman. Michael is a licensed practical

nurse in Marion, NY.

JoAnn Meaker is a retired teacher in the gifted program

in Fairport. Her book, Ontario, published by Arcadia,

is an historical review of Ontario County.

Michael and Me

2009-08-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

My Illustrator's Group

We started the illustrator's group a few years ago

with a mission to support and encourage each

other in our goals. Donna Farrell created the

FLiES (art "for little eyes") web site.

Each of us created an illustration for the site.

From this site there are links to individual

websites/blogs. Postcards will be created to

send to publishing houses, editors and art directors.

We made great progress this summer!

We meet once a month. Below is a photo taken at

our last meeting at Lori's house. One of our members,

McNevin, moved out of state last month and will be

missed. He will still stay in contact and be part of

the group.

Donna, Karen, Roxane, Stephanie, Lori, and Me

McNevin

It is so important to network and be around other

illustrators. I love seeing their work, risk taking,

and growth--great motivation for me. Being with a

group keeps one on task--eager to show and share

something new at the next meeting. Our members

both write and illustrate, but the focus is promotion

of our art for children's books.

2009-08-08T20:02:00.000-07:00

The Best Place to Work and Relax!

I love to write and sketch at our cabin on Keuka Lake.

We have friends who love to veg out there with us.

The sound of the waves, wildflowers, swallows,

mallards, and pines all contribute to renewal,

reflection and peace.

Cricket and Max

The owl caught the most fish!

Look at Max with his toy-adorable-he's patiently

waiting for me to play with him.

As I worked on the edit for Marco III, Cricket read

and played with her dog, Max. My husband and

Rick fished (catch and release). No one wants to

clean fish. There's little planning and no shopping for

these get-aways. The night before, Cricket and I decide

what we have on hand to bring and don't even care if it

will rain. Any day is great at the lake!

2009-08-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

Book, ETC. of Macedon, NY

I just discovered a book store in my neighborhood.

It's been there two years! Wonderful place--sells used

and out-of-print books and new books from local authors.

My book is on sale there; I'll also do a reading/presentation

on Oct.18.

John and "Books" the bookstore cat

John Cielinski, the owner, is a retired English teacher.

The book store has a cozy back room for small group

meetings and events. Coffee and snacks are available.

Some of the events: Meditation Thursday with Claire

Eirmann, Readers Theater, Sudoku, Chess and other

games, Wayne Writers Guild sessions, Spanish night.