I delight in the success of others! My friend, Julie C. Donaldson, has a new book “Don’t Throw Rocks at His Window: Real Advice to Mend a Broken Heart” published February 2011. She wrote the book because “it is possible to survive a broken heart. What’s more, it’s possible to love again with a heart that is strong and sure and whole. So drop the rock, toss the tissue, and take the journey from hurt to healing.” I have read many of her children’s stories published in The Friend, and she’s marvelous! In fact, she’s the one that encouraged me to write an experience that we’d had with our son L and submit “Garbage Graffiti“ to be published. Truly, there are so many experiences in our own life that can benefit others to be better people. Julie draws from personal experience and finds the positive lessons learned to help others.
I delight in good inspirations from others! Another BYU alumni, Amy June Bates, has some lovely new posts on her blog. I’m fascinated by her Spy Paper Dolls. And my all time favorite images were for Swan Lake and posted on the interview by Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast (Here in 2008). Her illustrations are realistic and contain an element of fun and enthusiasm for children. I follow her blog called “Drawing a blank“ She’s a positive force for good in the illustrating world–dare I say a ninja.
I delight in loud music by others! Marching to her own drum, Elaine Bradley, is wild and motivating. An interview posted about her HERE made me smile. I have a weak spot for the song “Animal” and it makes me laugh when little boy blue plays air guitar to it, while I do dishes (yes, even an author & illustrator has to do chores). Seriously, I think Neon Trees and ColdPlay are my favorite unruly muses for unloading the stresses of life… Shh! Chub Chub even knows how to raise her hands to music and bounce in her carseat as we drive in the car. No Baby Einstein songs for us! Sorry!
