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It playfully follows the sun as dawn breaks in different locations around the globe, introducing readers to all sorts of children and their families and showing a moment in time that we all love to experience whatever our backgrounds and wherever we are in the world: the delight that the first rays of sunshine can bring – the warmth, the hope, the sense of adventure and optimism. Eventually the sunshine makes it to Coco’s home, presaging a day of joyous outdoor play with friends, leaving readers with a gentle and lovely glow of joy and delight in something so simple and universal.
Graham’s storytelling is full of tiny but magical moments – capturing the sun shining on a kid’s bicycle bell or making shadows in the snowy footprints of a young child. Lyrical and understated, you’ll appreciate the first rays of sun you see after reading this in a brand new light (if you’ll pardon the pun).
Whilst capturing the drama of beams of light when all around is dark has been brilliantly achieved by others (for example Klassen’s illustrations for Lemony Snicket’s The Dark), Graham dazzles with his sunbeams even when they are surrounded by brightness. Equally successful in bringing focus and intensity to vast landscapes as capturing the epitome of personal warmth felt in homes, between loved ones, Graham’s soft, pastel-hued illustrations really bring the world alive, helping us find wonder again in the everyday.
Having delighted in How the Sun Got to Coco’s House I gave my kids a slip of paper with the word ORRERY on it. Words are such fun, and this one is a real delight. The challenge was to find out what an orrery is, why it’s relevant to this book and then to build (a simple) one. This treasure hunt introduced us to:
“Graham portrait” by Unknown – http://cosmone.com/timepiece/agenda/look-graham-london-legacy. Licensed under Public Domain via Commons – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Graham_portrait.jpg#/media/File:Graham_portrait.jpg
and then eventually led us to this:
and finally to this:
Watch our play in action!
This small orrery shows the relative movement of the moon around the earth, and the earth around the sun, enabling me to explain to my girls how it is not that the sun actually moves around the earth (the descriptions of the sun’s movements in How the Sun Got to Coco’s House might lead listeners to think that this is the case). Rather, what’s happening is that the surface of the earth facing the sun changes as the earth rotates, giving the illusion of the sun moving around the earth.
Now I can’t claim any of the honours for this fabulous orrery. During our treasure hunt for information about orreries we discovered the inspirational videos created by the amazing Mr Newham who works at Ivydale Primary School in South London. In this video he shows how to make a simple orrery with very basic materials:
What’s even more brilliant is that Mr Newham sells kits to make these orreries (and many other brilliant D&T projects) and so we thought we’d give one a go. At £6 I don’t think I could have bought the materials cheaper myself and the service provided by Ivydale Science & Technology Service (Mr Newham’s shop front) was super swift and efficient.
I don’t normally recommend specific products of companies but I can’t resist doing so in this case because the kit and service was so good, and what’s more, the kits are available for entire classes, or individually for families at home. I’ve ordered a whole selection of kits now and so far every one of them has been a huge hit with my girls. So a big hurrah for Mr Newham and the way he’s facilitated my kids (and me!) getting excited about all sorts of aspects of science, design and technology!
Whilst making our orrery and space background (by running our fingers over toothbrushes covered in white paint) we listened to:
What a great idea for a picture book! My daughter has two clocks in her room – on on British time and one on Chinese time (she is adopted from China). So we often think about what children on the other side of the world are doing at a particular time which keeps the big, wide, world in our minds. This book tunes right into that.
I love the ‘treasure hunt’ you gave the girls with the word ‘orrery’. It’s got me thinking – what words could I do it with….
Thank you.
Zoe said, on 1/21/2016 2:17:00 AM
Love the idea of two clocks Claire!
Bob Graham said, on 1/21/2016 7:53:00 PM
Thank you Zoe for your insightful and generous review of “How the Sun got to Coco’s House.” My publisher, Walker Books emailed it to me last night, and I loved the creative ideas and activities coming off the story. “Sunny Day,” by Elizabeth Mitchell provides a great soundtrack to the book. I so liked the banjo and the little girl’s voice together, and the animation too.
Normally I try not to go too far to find my stories. They are elusive and hard to recognise even when I’ve found them; often they just reveal themselves over time. So I try to keep them in reach of my drawing board.But somehow “Coco’s House” unfolded in a wintry northern hemisphere, a long way from my desk down here in Australia.
I just wrote it down quickly,( the sun already knew where it was going,) drew the pictures and finally received your comments. That’s a pretty good cycle of events in itself.
Cheers,
As we head into winter I thought it would be good to have a reminder of sunny days and summery good times to keep us warm when the cold finally hits. As I write this the weather is extraordinarily mild (for the UK!), the sun is shining away brightly, I'm not as yet huddled in front of the fire, and am enjoying every moment of light and clarity ... while it lasts. Here's a little print I've made to lift the spirits during the greyer months ahead, or just to provide an extra glow if you're lucky enough to live where it's warm all year long.
I re-coloured my Painted Flowers pattern for this, and cleaned it up further. Seemed perfect for this month, wouldn't you agree?
As always, it's available as a free printable (along with the past 10 monthly designs for 2014) for all subscribers of the Floating Lemons monthly newsletter. If you'd like to sign up, just click here.
Wishing you good humour for the week ahead. Cheers.
Winter is on the way OUT! I say this as a huge storm is coming into Colorado right NOW!! No, I did not go to the grocery store in freak out mode stocking my cupboards. Instead, I spent a bit of time today digging in my garden resisting the urge to acknowledge the storm at all! ha!
Alas, tonight I will hunker down with my pens and paper and continue to work towards deadlines for up and coming trade shows. That is the good thing about storms! They keep me focused. I wonder how many artists are like me?
I have one problem. I can’t seem to go out to my studio to work. It’s covered with papers, receipts, file folders etc. It is my new book-keeping system in progress. Eeeeek! My friend is helping me set up my Quick Books program. She entered all my checks, deposits etc, and sent me the disk. I bought the program, installed it, imported my files… … then I went to reconcile the two bank statements that my friend did not add and suddenly I am thirty dollars off! What on earth? What could I have done?
So, I did what I do best, I locked the studio door and went in the house. ha! My right brain is not in the mood for numbers! Happy Spring everyone!
6 Comments on Spring! Cometh!, last added: 4/9/2013
I never pay my bills in my studio! It’s too conflicting, only art things allowed…
Leslie Ann Clark said, on 4/8/2013 7:16:00 PM
Aaah…. good point!!
Patti Moore said, on 4/9/2013 7:20:00 AM
Adorable animation, Leslie Ann!! …Keep hoping for Spring! It is right around the corner!
Leslie Ann Clark said, on 4/9/2013 7:22:00 AM
Thank you Patti! Where do you live?
Patti Moore said, on 4/9/2013 7:28:00 AM
I live in North Carolina… We really love it here! Spring is in full-swing right now… The cherry trees in front of our house are at their peak & they are especially lovely this year!
Leslie Ann Clark said, on 4/9/2013 7:34:00 AM
Patti, Oh how wonderful! My friend moved to Charlotte a few years ago. She loves it there too. I would love to visit that area. I am planning a trip of a lifetime. I hope I get to do it. It will be from N.Caroline up the coast to Maine and then Nova Scotia! Your description is wonderful. I am in Colorado and the wind and snow are blowing. I think it is winters last ditch effort. Spring is here. The snow will melt quicky and allow all my flowers to emerge at last! Enjoy! … and hey!, tag me a photo of your trees on FB.I would LOVE to see them!
A rare day-off for Lincoln's Birthday, the big kids all gone to friends' houses, and a little sunshine on the front patio means that my littlest can have fun playing out front while mom updates things on the laptop.
Spring flowers have already arrived.
Anyway, didn't I say I might just tweak the painting a little? Well, that wasn't exactly true. When it came down to it, I think I tweaked it a lot. Of course, it may not look different but, with a little close observation, one might notice differences. Frankly, I became frustrated with the 2 flowers on the right - they became rather muddled by overworking with to many colors - I even completely painted out the bottom one and started over.
I think it's done - but I'm still not happy with the leaf - I'll just tweak it a little...
Light was an interesting challenge as I had a changing light source (a south-facing window) to my left which caused moving shadows and a secondary interior light overhead/right which created shadows of its own. I realized that I was giving conflicting information with cast shadows of the flower petals on both sides of the vase/creamer, but I liked the shapes and decided to keep them. And that's what was truly liberating about this project compared with the first one which was much more dependent on observation. For this one, I gave myself permission to use more artistic license and mostly responded to what was happening on the paper. Besides liking the shapes of some of the shadows, I also liked the orange from the flowers reflected on the porcelain surface - it wasn't nearly as pronounced in real life, but I liked it in the painting.
I still have dreams of one do doing a "quick" little still life that captures its essence with a minimum of strokes... (sigh)
0 Comments on So Much For Being "Done"... as of 2/11/2013 8:24:00 PM
Rascal and I went on our usual walk this morning. Believe me, it was cold when we started out. The ground was frozen, with snow and ice still clinging to bits of the grass. I knew we needed the exercise, but the effort felt more like a chore than anything else. Something to get over with, so I could get back into my nice, warm house.
Then the sun came out!
The temperature remained the same, but everything looked brighter. Not only that, I could feel the warmth of the sun shining on my face and even on my legs under my slacks. It's effect was amazing, transforming a frigid day to a pleasant one. Whereas before, I could hardly wait to get home, the sun's warmth made me want to walk further and enjoy it more.
In a way, it reminded me of authors. We work hard in isolation to get our books finished, all the while wondering what readers will think of them. When our books are done, they're thrust out to walk on their own in the cold, cruel world. Will they have enough stamina to continue on, or be forced to retreat in defense from an onslaught of criticism?
Then, magically, a reader says a kind word, or posts a nice review, and everything changes!
Such kind words are like sunshine to an author. They not only make the struggle worthwhile, but encourage us to carry on. They also give our books strength and longevity in the marketplace, making it possible for more readers to enjoy them.
Thanks to everyone who has spent the time to write a review for any of my books, or told me in person or writing that you liked it. Your thoughtfulness is much appreciated!
Boy can I relate, Morgan! It's been unusually cold but sunny on the Southern Oregon coast for the past two or three days. It was 40 degree when we left to walk our dogs in a local park at 9:00. There's a beautiful pond in the middle of the trees, with a path for walking. It was SO COLD, the ducks, coots and geese didn't go in the pond! Still I'd rather have this than rain! Happy New Year
I tell people all the time that the best gift to give a writer is a review...it's better than seeing a sale, or anything else, to get a review. Because you know someone read you--and they cared enough to SAY something about it. Love reviews! Great post!
Morgan, I wouldn't have walked in the cold. Am not a winter person and get my exercise at the gym and playing tennis indoors! I know the sun felt good.
Morgan, I am in awe of you. You went out to walk on such a cold day! I've been walking every morning and have discovered that I really like walking. I didn't go this morning, though. I did get some exercise, though, since my aunt is coming tomorrow so I've been cleaning house (including the toilets!).
It was unusually cold here in East Texas when I went for my walk this morning, too, Morgan. Still cold, and I have not received a new review to warm me up. (smile) So glad to see you got a good one.
Kudos to you Morgan for both the post and that you got out and walked. It is so hard to get myself going but once I do, I enjoy it a lot like what you mentioned. Reviewers also have a special place in my heart for sharing their thoughts. I really learned a lot from a negative comment on a review. It was really helpful and constructive. Wendy W.S. Gager on Writing
I really got how you compared the warmth of sunshine to a kind word from a reader or peer. The difference is absolutely night and day.
You'd think we were all fully-formed and wholly confident, but this is a strange business. No matter how much you enjoy writing and how good you think your stories are, a few negative words can have you doubting everything.
I keep a file of "kind words." They really help when the mean girls come along, or some other micro-disaster.
Happy New Year, Morgan! We went hiking on New Year's Day to Starved Rock Park. The sun made it absolutely wonderful. And I agree the reviews/notes/comments from folks are what keeps me going as a writer. I need to know someone understood and/or enjoyed my hard work. DL Larson
Morgan, you could send a little of that cold over. Here, we have 40 degrees Celsius (over 100 F) with strong gusty winds. Worst bushfire day since the bad one in 2009. I did my walking after 10 pm when the temperature lowered to 24 C (75 F). :) Bob
Morgan, It's so true, and I absolutely agree. We write in solitude and then are thrust into the marketing whirlwind. A kind word from a reader goes a long way. Margot www.mjustes.com
This is a painting of my old cat Biff who graced my life for nearly seventeen years.
He had malnutrition and pneumonia and weighed 5 pounds when I adopted (stole) him from his neglectful owners.
He showed his gratitude for life every single day.
Meanwhile, I started my new job at the veterinary hospital on Tuesday. I have put in nearly 30 hours in 3 days which is why I've been so scarce, yet again.
It will take some time to get acclimated to these hours, but so far it's going well.
Everyone is nice and helpful, but best of all I get to hold puppies again and greet so many new fur friends!
Oh, and getting a paycheck again? Priceless!
I hope to visit you all soon. It looks like I've missed a million posts!
xo
Lo♥
26 Comments on Illustration Friday: Stripes, last added: 11/8/2011
Oh how I love this painting - the colors and patterns are amazing! It also reminds me of my big orange cat, Harvey, who was "adopted" in much the same manner as your dear Biff.
Sending good wishes as you adapt to the new job and hours. xoxo
Oh yay on the new job and its where you want to be too. I have missed you...just so you know. Annie is doing great now. She limps sometimes but walks normal a more often then limping. Love the drawing.
love the stripes, and the sunny drawing. it's such a cozy thing to look at on this rainy grey day. i hope your not working too hard, and the days shorten a little for you. that's a lot of hours. xoxo
So happy for you LO, and you were a GOOD SOUL to steal the poor cat from the neglectful owners! Hope things continue good at work; I am sure that all the animals love you!
look at those shadow stripes! that is my favorite: how the shadow stripes and biff's stripes create a whole.
haha, i can just see you rescuing that kitten, and holding those puppies. love appears in so many ways. virginia satir's research says we humans need eight hugs a day to be grounded and happy. and animals count.
So glad you have a new job to enjoy! Henry spent a lot of time in my lap today while I knit or tried to while he tried to sit on my arms! But I love him and the sweater will get done eventually!
Those are some long days Lolo. So glad you are doing what you want to be doing. If not it would be intolerable. Best of luck. Love seeing some of your art again.
Well, you are not the only one, with work and painting and a new fur baby to train blogging gets pushed to the back. This is a wonderful cat :-). Congrats on the new job, doing what you love, but I must have missed something I thought you were working at the store? Have a most wonderful weekend! xoxo
I can't seem to keep up with your life anymore, so many changes. But at last you are back where you belong- with these animals who adore you. Best of luck and am so happy for you!!!
Oh my! I love the colors, perspective and shadowing! :) Congrats on your new job and just think, you can add all your furry new friends to your creative work! :)
Working in a vet hospital is awesome - one of my past favorite jobs (as long as you don't have to collect money from the parents of the pets). What is your job? Tell us all about it!!!
Love this! And so true. My husband and I always joke that when kids come to our house to play they hate it - we make them go outside and play and get fresh air instead of playing Wii or watching TV...
I'm having one of those Life-Gets-In-The-Way sort of week... Wanting to work in the studio every day, but stuff, besides doing things like flying across the country for the weekend, continues to come up -
Spent one evening taking my Sondheim-loving daughter downtown to see "Sunday In the Park With George" (which I related to much more now than the first time I saw it. All that crazy-obsessive-artist stuff! Hmmmmm....... :-)
I volunteered to put together a card for the owner of the house we stayed in for our spring retreat - with a Thank You piece of art from all of us. I enjoy making these things, but they always take longer than I had planned. So, another evening Not Drawing.
Spent some time researching mini-laptops (Michelle is shown here with her new baby AsusEee). I'm traveling more now, and as much as I love my chartreuse green 17" Dell Inspiron, it is *heavy* and cumbersome to lug around in airports. 'Would like a small, light-weight one for travel. (Anyone out there have a 10" laptop you recommend?)
Attended critique meeting with my fellow POBL-ites. This is one amazing, hard-working, well-published group of women! (And our meetings take an entire evening...)
But probably the most time consuming thing of all -
as a result of that UFO up in the sky (some people call it "the sun" - a thing we don't see so much of in this part of the world at this time of year) -
-I've *had* to spend a number of sun-drenched hours out in the yard, working on the gardens and various beds that have been so neglected over the past couple of deadline-heavy summers. (See all my parsley babies coming up here? So much new plant life. So gratifying to be out amongst....)
I'm sure I'll get more studio hours in as soon as it starts raining again. Could be any minute now.
6 Comments on Things I've Been Doing Instead of Drawing...., last added: 4/27/2009
Tara, i know that feeling so well - torn - garden/artwork, artwork/garden, for us here too those sunny days are few & far between, so gardening has been a must whilst the april showers are held at bay. your daughter is such a sweetie! love the card that you made. you have been sooo busy!
It doesn't get any better than Katrina and the Waves. Who doesn't feel perky when they hear that song. I know I do, and it has been stuck in my head for days now. But I don't mind, it is one of the 80's ultimate feel good songs. They had huge success in the 80s.
Think about it. Here is a group from England who hits the big time in the US and Canada. In fact I think I might just make this my new theme song. Come on people, SING WITH ME!
And to add to my sunshine, I have received another "meme" award. I think it is totally cool that people think my Blog is worth recognition, no matter the form. I really appreciate the sentiment. I also appreciate that each of you who follow and read my Blog do so by choice.
So today's recognition comes from Joan De La Haye. She has bestowed on me the Butterfly Award, and I graciously accept. The rules are as follows.
This is a ‘meme’ award (what ever that means), but who cares. It’s fun and it’s sweet. So, the rules for passing it along are
1. Put the logo on your blog. 2. Add a link to the person who awarded you. 3. Award up to ten other blogs. 4. Add links to those blogs on yours. 5. Leave a message for your awardees on their blogs.
So the ten sites I would like to honor with this cool award are as follows, in no particular order.
Congrats on your award. About that sunshine - If wishing were only so - Instead, Snow, Snow and more Snow! Below zero tonight and tomorrow. Shoveled another path for Rascal to do her duty in the backyard and hope it won't blow away later when the wind is supposed to pick up. I do feel sorry for her, but unfortunately dogs don't use indoor toilets.
Today, I'm lucky, since I'm off work on Wednesdays,but tomorrow will be a nightmare. I hate the thought of walking over the slippery bridge by the Chicago River when I step out of Ogilvie Transportation Centre.
I'll have to stop off at a few buildings to get warmed up before I can make it to the office. Such is life in Illinois. I should be used to it by now.
Morgan Mandel http://morganmandel.blogspot.com http://www.morganmandel.com http://twitter.com/morganmandel
Butterflies are such a favorite of "meme," that must be where the name comes from. So, Karen, there you have it. And congrats. I also enjoy your blog...bloggoneit!
Hello everyone!! Thanks for visiting. Today Sunshine and I are celebrating my 200th blog post! There is lots to share with you, so please read on...
Here I am posting my latest illustration in my Flower Girls series: I am creating this series to sell as note cards/invitations when I launch my new online shop in July. They will all be printed in color (as the first girl is in the post below), and sold as a set of 6 (or 8..I have not decided yet). I will also be selling full-color prints of many of my other illustrations, including Halloween and Sea Princess.
Now, on to the fun stuff. A couple of months ago, Joan tagged me to list 10 facts about myself. For the sake of saving space (and because I cannot think of that many interesting things), I am adding my own twist to the list! So here are My Five Favorites for June 2008:
1. I love unusual scents, such as wool, silk, rain and lime peel. 2. Robert Reed, the actor who played Mike Brady on the Brady Bunch...well, he was my cousin. He was born John Robert Rietz. I never met him and he died in '92, but he is buried back here in Skokie, IL. I guess that makes me a Brady. Sort of. : ) 3. I laugh when I am in pain. No, really. Ask my sister. She thinks it is the funniest thing in the world when I stub a toe or smack my head on a shelf because pain makes me laugh. 4. I love listening to this when I am painting or drawing. You can go to Pandora.com and create a sound track for your drawing session. So cool! 5. I love looking at photos of beautiful food and reading the recipes. In fact, unleash me in Borders and I head straight for the food magazines, grab 2 or 3, and sit for hours reading them from cover to cover. Occasionally, I will even BUY one. But my latest tasty morsel is this website! This photo below makes my mouth water. And chef Russell James even holds classes. So if I am ever in the UK, I will have to look him up. (photo courtesy of The Raw Chef Blog and chef Russell James) The most amazing part of this Cacao Pistachio Florentine & Mint Ice Cream Sandwich is that is is raw and it is vegan.
I still have news I want to tell you all, but I can't yet. The suspense is killing me! But you never count your chickens before they are hatched, and so I'll wait. I'll wait until it is official and all my ducks are in a row. Hee hee....enough about chickens and ducks, this post is turning fowl. : ) (sorry, couldn't resist)
Thanks to all my peeps (another fowl pun) who have visited my blog on a regular basis and have been kind enough to leave me comments or email me. I am looking forward to the next 200 posts with all of you! Fo' shizzle. : )
Here's a story, of a lovely lady, who just did her 200th post. (Sing that to the Brady Bunch theme song.) Now, try to get it out of your head. lol. Your flower girl is so cute and so is your dog. Vickie
So nice to see you and Sunshine enjoying Lake Michigan....looked like a beautiful Windy City day.
Your flower girl series is so charming and will be fabulous as cards.
Thanks for sharing the interesting facts, Miss Brady :) I think I must be an honorary Brady for the sheer amount of time spent watching when I was a kid.
Hi! I mostly lurk but I thought I would come out of hiding to greet you and your blog a happy 200th post! Haha :D (I feel like it's your birthday, of some sort)
Pandora doesn't work for me as I'm outside the US, sigh. Licensing constraints, they call it.. :)
You might want to check out http://www.foodgawker.com -- they have the best food photos ever! Drool :)
Anyway, hi and congrats, and goodluck on the upcoming online store. I love your work :)
This post is like a little present ... beautiful drawing, lovely pics, fun facts, music, suspense, and yummy treats! What a great gift to us when we should be celebrating YOUR 200th!!! Thanks for the treat Kate! Happy 200th post! :)
Thanks everyone! I feel like I am having a little virtual "block party" here on my blog! Thanks for popping by. As Joan pointed out, there is plenty to do and see here. : )
Second, LOVE Pandora - thanks for the link! Now if only I had internet in the studio (yes, I'm artisticly "old school" so no computer nearby - but we do have indoor plumbing).
Third - hi Sunshine. She (assuming) looks like there's Corgi involved. We have a Corgi mix - with what? Jury's out on that one - maybe German Shepherd. Best dog in the world, though!
Congrats on 200 posts, I've always thought you were very talented Kathleen and I've enjoyed seeing your work over the past couple of years! Good luck with the online store. I keep thinking about doing some stuff for Etsy but still haven't gotten around to it:)
OMG you are awesome, I want to be you when I grow up! Yes I'm still ironing out my schedule! But Jim Flora, here we come! I have an asst now just for the summer, to play with the boys while I work, so that means I'll get more done during the week, and THAT means more free time on weekends...Seems we need to make our appearance at Panera at some point?...
Kate!! This post is great!! First of all you look so pretty and lovely in all the pictures along with sunshine who also looks very cute :o)
Second, congrats on the card! Wonderful idea by the way! can totally see them fling off the racks!
Third, congrats on 200 post!! Wow oh woo.
Fourth, Mike Brady is your cousin???!!! Ha, ha.. you gotta be kidding me... I grew up with the Brady Bunch. I saw all the episodes.. all of them. I just can't believe "Everyone's favorite and most perfect dad" is family.. Very cool.
And last but not least, the most important super duper secret of all.. I know you have to keep secret.. I know.. but I wish you the best of luck my friend!!!!!!
Wow 200th post!! Congrats! Just found you and love your drawings. I grew up a Brady wannabe! :o) Love your illustrations and I will come and visit often. Going to throw you in my favs blog roll now! :o) Amy
Happy 200th post, Kathleen! It's always a pleasure to see what you're up to on your blog. I love your flower girls. This one is my fave though. She's adorable!
Sunshine is certainly adorable too. I'll have to show her picture to my dog, Buddy. He'll think she's a real cutie!
I'll check back to read the reveal of the super-secret good news. Can't wait to hear about it!! I'm sure it's something awesome, because you deserve greatness. Enjoy every minute of it.
Happy 200th post!! Woohoo!! Congratulations on that!
I loved reading all of those interesting facts about you. Well the next time I hear you laugh I will certainly wonder if you are enjoying a joke or if you are in pain. I guess it's better to laugh when your in pain. It probably makes it go away faster.
So,did you know that you were related to Mr. Brady when you were a kid watching the show? If I were you I'm sure that I would have told all the kids on my block about it. Wow, Mr. Brady is your cousin. Cool!
You know what else is cool and so tasty looking? That Minty Florentin Ice Cream Sandwich!! Yum, Yum!!
Hi Kate!!! congrats on your 200th post...what fun!!!
Your photos are beautiful...you and Sunshine are so sweet together....
Your flower girl series is the cutest ever...I love each and every one of these cute little gals...
You will do amazing with your on-line shop...your work is so pleasing and warm...everyone will love it.....
Love your list...I love the smell of rain and lime peel too...
Pain makes you laugh...well I hope some of the things I say aren't that painful...lol
Thanks for the tip on Pandora.com...I will have to check it out....
oh my goodness...I am such a foodie too...I can look through all kinds of food magazines over a latte and enjoy each and every mouthwatering recipe....you have to go to my blog and check out one of the guys I visit ....his blog is called "Closet Cooking" and he makes the most amazing food and takes the most amazing photos of the food...then shares his recipes...yummmmmmmmm
and I love your sense of humour...lol....fowl...too funny ,you really "crack me up"! LOL....
Have a wonderful day and I will be back daily...now that we are back home...
What a great post! Lots of fun and interesting things to find out about you.
First of all, congrats on your 200th post. It's been a joy to follow you all this time. Oh and your and Sunshine look gorgeous in your photos... and really enjoyed learning these little tidbits about you.
Finally, I am, like everyone else, in total suspense. Can't wait to hear your news!!
Happy 200th post day! you look different from the profile pictures! you are a very pretty lady, all the flowers girls illustration very sweet and beautiful illustrated!
Signs of spring! Blossoms of flowering cherry, dogwood and many other varieties I cannot name but I can capture them in my lens. Beautiful aren't they? Oh, and how marvelous they smell!
Tomorrow I am off to shop for flowers for the garden. It is suppose to be cool and rain but I won't let that stop me, no, not with this type of encouragement egging me on.
The sunshine and rays streaming through the clouds; lovely aren't they? My husband said, "capture them please." "Oh yes" I say. God has touched the petals and the rays with his brush of magnificence.
3 Comments on Petals and Rays, last added: 5/13/2008
I’ve been doing some paintings, just to creatively ‘loosen up’ a little.
Here is one of the pieces. This also has a companion piece which I will post at a later date! Hope you enjoy the work!
I did a number of black and white spot illustrations a few months ago for a book entitle "YUM: Your Ultimate Manual for Good Nutrition" for Lobster Press. Some of the illustrations are of personified vitamins and minerals as superheroes. The boy above is Vitamin D. What is one of the best sources for vitamin D? Sunshine, of course!
0 Comments on Paula's Take on "Sunhine" as of 1/1/1900
Never grow old! That's what I say. I love your art so much Kate. Great illustration!!
Teresa
NANCY LEFKO said, on 3/28/2008 4:12:00 PM
aren't they having so much fun !!! this is wonderful....
murphy girl said, on 3/28/2008 4:15:00 PM
pardon me, i must go jump on my bed now!
Flying Colors said, on 3/28/2008 4:40:00 PM
Honoring your childhood keeps the child awake in you. It shows! Wonderful depictions of the young tender spirits. Sweet...
carga said, on 3/28/2008 5:25:00 PM
very funny, nice idea and draw.
ValGalArt said, on 3/28/2008 6:16:00 PM
aahh yes to be Peter Pan! i love the dogs legs and the little girl is wonderful!!!
Joan Y said, on 3/28/2008 6:30:00 PM
LOL! I was just jumping on my bed the other day with Kanoe! I can just see you doing this too. I hope we never lose our childhood and enjoy seeing the world through the eyes of kids. It will keep us young. I love the motion in this drawing! So fun!
rbaird said, on 3/28/2008 8:09:00 PM
I love the flying socks and messy drawers! Just like kids of that age! Really cute!
Mick said, on 3/28/2008 9:23:00 PM
My favorite part is the flying socks too! :D
Sherry Rogers said, on 3/29/2008 12:22:00 AM
Kate your sketches are always so perfect! How on earth do you do that?
Love the pattern on her pj's. This is such a happy illustration. Purrrfect Woofer!
JO said, on 3/29/2008 2:00:00 AM
I don't know who is having more fun, the little girl, the dog or me enjoying your illos.
Kevin Levell said, on 3/29/2008 5:52:00 AM
great composition and a lot of fun.
Fannie said, on 3/29/2008 8:35:00 AM
Fun, Kate! Your illustrations are mini stories with powerful meaning. From the heart--art. Love it!
indigene said, on 3/29/2008 10:29:00 AM
This is so much fun! I remember when my kids were little, I loved watching them jumping on the bed, even though I know many of my friends thought it was not a good thing to do! Thanks for bringing back that wonderful memory! Your line work has wonderful energy and you've captured the feeling of that joy of jumping.
www.indigeneartforms.blogspot.com
Ces said, on 3/29/2008 11:16:00 AM
You are truly a wonderful illustrator. Such joy!
Cheryl said, on 3/29/2008 2:33:00 PM
Awesome, meticulous drawing. Can't wait to see the color version.
Teri C said, on 3/29/2008 4:01:00 PM
So sweet. May I join you in jumping?
Eric said, on 3/29/2008 8:59:00 PM
You have a wonderful illustration style. Oh the fun of jumping on your bed until your socks fly off! Great work.
Monica said, on 3/29/2008 9:46:00 PM
Beautifully drawn, really wonderful illustration. I'll love to see it in color, but even as a sketch it is full of life and movement. I see you too had a great friend to play with as a child. :-)
Kathy Weller said, on 3/29/2008 9:51:00 PM
Cute, fun and free... excellent work Kate!!
Honor Bowden said, on 3/30/2008 12:08:00 AM
Hi Kate, this is truly beautiful. Your work always makes me smile which is a wonderful thing to do! Thanks.
SENTA said, on 3/30/2008 1:07:00 AM
This is such a sweet post, it makes me miss my childhood...love your homage!
Kate said, on 3/30/2008 1:58:00 AM
Thanks everyone!!
Bee said, on 3/30/2008 11:59:00 AM
Great scene. Always a fan of your wonderful drawings and characters :)
Debbie Egizio said, on 3/30/2008 12:08:00 PM
What fun!! Makes me want to go jump on the bed right now. I'm just a big kid too!
Bobo Cat said, on 3/30/2008 1:51:00 PM
What a joyful illustration. BTW, your copyright statement is real cute, but I think you can't threaten those sneaker with Sunshine's big smile.
Vhrsti said, on 3/30/2008 2:05:00 PM
Wow! So vibrant scene! Great as always, Kate!
Nicola said, on 3/30/2008 10:56:00 PM
I love seeing your work in progress! And how wonderful to honor the spirit of a young child. Thank you!
Kristin said, on 3/31/2008 6:47:00 AM
very sweet and funny! wonderful characters!
Anonymous said, on 3/31/2008 8:48:00 AM
cant wait to see the color version. remembers a time like that to.
Diana Evans said, on 3/31/2008 2:15:00 PM
this is a wonderful homage...oh how wonderful childhood was and still is...I never act my age...heheh
Cheers, Diana
sketched out said, on 3/31/2008 3:06:00 PM
Such great movement, I can feel the sensation of jumping as I look at this adorable drawing. It's slamming me back to those good ole days. Sort of like when you hear a certain song or smell.
tusen said, on 3/31/2008 5:12:00 PM
great illustration, so full of energy! It brings my childhood memories, too. We used to jump on bed with my sister :)
Michelle Smith said, on 3/31/2008 7:58:00 PM
What a fun and lively illustration.
ms. froggie said, on 4/1/2008 9:41:00 AM
this is TOTALLY a portfolio piece! i lovvve this, kathy! :))
janie said, on 4/1/2008 10:33:00 AM
lovely homage, full of the joys of spring;)
timafli said, on 4/1/2008 2:21:00 PM
Hey Kate, very nice drawing. You should put it into your MAGIC colors. Great line drawing that provokes the emotion in the piece
Alicia Padrón said, on 4/2/2008 9:11:00 AM
Awww Kate, you've captured the moment so beautifully! I feel like that's me jumping up and down with a dog by my side. I think everybody has this little girl or boy inside no matter the age. Wonderful!
princesstomato said, on 4/2/2008 11:45:00 PM
talented dog! :) fun scene! great job.
:)
teri
Anonymous said, on 4/3/2008 8:33:00 AM
Keep them coming-I almost like your sketch's better then the finished product!
Gigi Moore said, on 4/3/2008 6:25:00 PM
This is a beautiful sketch. I can't wait to see the finished painting.
Anyhoo - if any of you are interested, here is how you get rid of skunk funk:
On your pet, shampoo the pet with a mixture of: 1 pint hydrogen peroxide 1/4 cup baking soda 1 tsp Dawn liquid dish soap Leave on pet for 10 minutes, rinse.
In your house: In a large pot, boil water, Clorox bleach and salt on your stove on high heat for several hours. I was so pleasantly surprised to find how well this one works! We boiled the pot all day and the smell is actually gone!
I hope you all had a much more relaxing and enjoyable Easter weekend than I did. I am looking forward to hitting a post-Easter candy sale to soothe my psyche with a chocolate marshmallow bunny if I can still find one!
42 Comments on Illustration Friday - "Pet Peeves" & an Easter I will never forget!, last added: 4/1/2008
Great illo. Kathleen, gossip can be very disspiriting! I hnow what you mean about the skunk funk, it too is disspirting. My dog has been sprayed also. Thats good to know with your recipe...has it been working well? I remember that it had at one time smelt good to me at a distance but experiencing it close up is another matter entirely.
johanna said, on 3/24/2008 1:20:00 AM
gossip certainly does a lot of damage.
nice illustration! happy easter!
Bobo's slave said, on 3/24/2008 1:39:00 AM
Wahahaha....! I can't stop laughing while reading this, just imagine a beautiful woman like you smell like the skunk in the drug store! Wakaka, I start laughing again.
Both illustrations are great, the girl make me feel pity for her, and the skunk is just incredible. Anyhow, I would like to see one roaming freely in front of me.
Joan Y said, on 3/24/2008 2:10:00 AM
Ok, this has got to be the funniest post yet! I still think your skunk encounter is a strange occurrence and I can't quite imagine the smell but your description of it makes me wish I never have that opportunity. Skunk funk ... blech! I have to admit, I did find it amusing that no one would stand next to you at the drug store. LOL. Sorry for laughing ... but it's pretty funny. Your gossip illustration is great! This is a fabulous Easter post!
Nicole said, on 3/24/2008 5:20:00 AM
Nice illustration! I don't like gossip...
Gina Perry said, on 3/24/2008 7:08:00 AM
Really nice piece - the expressions and body language says it all!
My sister once fed a skunk popcorn while vacationing on Cape Cod, I'm not sure what she thought it was, it was pitch black out... It sprayed our family dog and back then tomato juice was the standard de-stinking method. Sounds like you found a much neater remedy!
princesstomato said, on 3/24/2008 9:42:00 AM
So far our dog has managed to steer clear, but it is only a matter of time, I suppose..so I am goint to have to remember that you have the solution here! LOVE the bunny-skunk with the basket full of clothespins....how thoughtful!!! :)
your gossip illustration is great too. you could also paint a scene of the ladies at the country club when they smell a skunk at the brunch! :) in your spare time, of course.
have a super week! teri
teri
Teresa Sheeley said, on 3/24/2008 10:02:00 AM
Oh no, poor you, and your baby! I haven't had the pleasure of that happening to my dogs, yikes!
Love both of your illustrations, the gossip one is great, and oh so true.
Hope things are more "rosey" now! :)
Teresa
Teri C said, on 3/24/2008 10:23:00 AM
Oh my goodness! What an Easter bunny you had! Living in Wisconsin, I always heard you had to wash your pet with tomato juice to get rid of the smee.
Love the look on your pet peeve girl.
Amelia said, on 3/24/2008 11:16:00 AM
I love all of your drawings! They are so cute!
sketched out said, on 3/24/2008 12:27:00 PM
OMG! The smell of skunk from afar is nauseating enough, I can't even imagine having the funk on you! Bleh! Glad you were able to remedy it and sure hope you found a chocolate marshmallow bunny to soothe your soul, you poor thing.
Your Easter skunk is hilarious! I just love him, hee hee.
The Gossip illo is also great. The secretive expressions on the gossipers and the hurt look on the gossipee is dead on.
Bee said, on 3/24/2008 12:38:00 PM
A great pet peeve to use and really lovely illustration to support it. Hope you and your dog have recovered from the skunk ordeal!
Debbie Egizio said, on 3/24/2008 1:36:00 PM
Oh no!!! Poor you and poor pup!! So sorry to hear about that bad skunk messing up your holiday.
I do love your IF and skunk illustrations and I have to agree that gossip is so incredibly damaging not only to the offended but also the offenders. I always keep away from people who do that sort of thing. Hope you have recovered from the skunky mess.
rbaird said, on 3/24/2008 4:02:00 PM
Cute illustration and a big pet peeve!
My dogs got sprayed once, then they pushed through the door and rubbed against the kid's back backs. They were sent home from school the next day! Stinky! Wish I'd known your recipe back then!
Paola said, on 3/24/2008 6:23:00 PM
Oh, yes! I'm sure this Easter will be unforgettable! But you managed to deal with it quite well. Who will illustrate such a beautiful skunk after your experience?
The Pet Peeves illo is so nice, the girls expressions are perfect! And I agree with you about gossip, it can make people feel very miserable. Gossips should know that life is a boomerang...
I've read your comment in my blog about the ATC's, I just want to thank you for going to so much trouble. These are the risks we take with mail, but nevertheless, as you mentioned the spirit of giving arrived safely :) Thanks for understanding my delay too!
Have a nice week, Paola
SENTA said, on 3/24/2008 7:41:00 PM
I TOTALLY agree with your pet peeve, I didn't even think of that but it was so perfect for this. Love both the illos!
Your poor dog, it's sad and funny at the same time...sorry your Easter was stressful! I had dog trauma too, my dog found a great big chocolate heart leftover from Valentine's and ate the whole thing while I was out. I was in a panic over it, but luckily he ended up being fine. Gotta love them!
Diana Evans said, on 3/24/2008 8:00:00 PM
oh nooooooooo....sorry to hear about Sunshine's run in with Mr. Stinky....I will never forget when Minnie had the same visit...yikeeeeees....
Hope you enjoy all the post Easter CHocolate...I wish I could hand you some tonight...Cole got way too much stuff this year...SPOILED...
We decorated eggs and he was so sweet...I will have to post some pics...
Cheers, Diana
andi butler said, on 3/24/2008 10:11:00 PM
Oh Kate, your illustration is so sad!! I've been on both side, both unfortunately, and I am extremely conscientious now, and careful not to fall into that trap! Anyone who's never dealt with skunk...so lucky!! the aroma is so thick you can feel it in your gums...what a nightmare, glad you're pretty much back to normal, lemme know 'bout Saturday!
a : )
pupu said, on 3/24/2008 10:11:00 PM
Ohh nice illo you have there! ;) Gossip.. uhum.. never ending gossip. Its worst when people keeps on staring at you espcially when your won bestfriends don't believe you. *sigh* I'm so pity with her.
thefridayfrog said, on 3/24/2008 10:56:00 PM
i ADORE her. what a wonderfully sad and beautiful little victim and 3 such awful villians. great illio, kathleen!
so sorry about your um, skunk incident! but now you gotta draw you, in that drug store. that would be the most excellent llio, dontcha think? :))
Dot said, on 3/24/2008 11:54:00 PM
kids can be so mean. great job on her expression of pain...
Honor Bowden said, on 3/25/2008 2:16:00 AM
I'm sorry about your skunkin' easter! I've never had the displeasure of a skunk encounter... I'm sure the marshmallow bunny will help though!
carla said, on 3/25/2008 5:59:00 AM
Yikes! Yes, the odor is like poison gas. I guess it does its intended job, though! Your gossip illustration makes an important point. So many kids are bullied these days, and it makes their lives miserable.
Anonymous said, on 3/25/2008 11:57:00 AM
This is really great. I feel so sorry for your pup! My golden, Nate, got sprayed when he was a little pup! I know what you mean about gossip though-once gossip got around (when I was about 13) that I had cheated on one of our tests!
thedoodlegirl said, on 3/25/2008 12:01:00 PM
I cannot sleep at night if there is a skunk anywhere near our neighborhood because the smell is so strong! I'm so sorry bout your run-in. I love your illo!
Sparky Firepants said, on 3/25/2008 12:45:00 PM
I thought your blog smelled a little funky today. I thought it was me.
Nice illo Friday piece!
Tracey Miller said, on 3/25/2008 1:24:00 PM
Great illustrations, both! Love your work.
Diana Evans said, on 3/25/2008 2:38:00 PM
Hi Kathleen...just popping by to check up on you and Sunshine...
Cheers, Diana
cata said, on 3/25/2008 2:58:00 PM
You make me smile ,Kathe. This post is so funny. Your illo about gossip is fantastic, poor little girl. Cata
studio lolo said, on 3/25/2008 3:25:00 PM
Gossip is so damaging and USELESS! Great concept and illo. She looks so stung.
Poor Sunshine! I've been sprayed and let me tell you it hurts the eyes and throat with such burning! Back when I was a dog groomer, one of the best remedies for a dog was to mix a gallon of douche (yep, you heard me!) and use it as a final rinse and DO NOT rinse it off. It worked pretty well. Ugh, when Sunshine gets wet again it will stir up the smell. She's still loveable though ;)
Sorry you missed the Easter gatherings. I know your faith is a big part of your life.
Bobo Cat said, on 3/25/2008 3:54:00 PM
After reading others' comments, I realize that instead of laughing, I should feel sorry for you, my apology.
Gigi Moore said, on 3/25/2008 3:58:00 PM
I love your post. I remember those schoolhood days of gossip and rumors flying around. Sorry, too say that it can still happen in adult life.
Sorry, about your encounter on Sunday. I've only seen skunk attacks in the movies or cartoons. After your description of your experience, the only place I want to see them is on tv :O)
Great illos!
Serena said, on 3/25/2008 9:26:00 PM
Gossip can cause so much pain...I want to cry for that little girl. Great illustration, Kate ~
I'm sorry to hear you missed out on Easter Mass though I'm sure the congregation would have appreciated your absence and sympathised with your dilemma. Luckily, when I lived in Wyoming, I didn't ever cross paths with a skunk but I heard plenty about the unforgettable stink. How did Sunshine react to the smell? I'm glad the remedy worked despite the awkward moments at the drug store. No doubt you will have a good laugh about it down the track because it does make for a funny story ~ :)
Serena said, on 3/25/2008 9:29:00 PM
I meant to add that I love your sense of humour putting clothes pegs in the basket...or should that be nose pegs? lol
Kate said, on 3/26/2008 3:39:00 AM
Thanks everyone! I am glad you can all sympathise with me, and also laugh with me about this skunk situation! I love reading all of your stories and remedies.
Thanks also for your comments on my IF piece. It is hard for me to create "sad" art because it makes me feel sad while I am creating it. Maybe that is why so many of my pieces are celebratory and happy.
janie said, on 3/26/2008 6:59:00 PM
We don't have skunks in Ireland, thank goodness, sounds like a pretty awful ordeal, I'm sure your pooch wasn't too pleased either, first a skunk attack and then a bath attack:) great gossiping gang illustration, poor little girl.
Phyllis Harris said, on 3/26/2008 7:17:00 PM
Oh you poor thing!! I had this exact same thing happen a few years ago to my golden retriever, Brandy and it was around 10 or 11 at night, too! The only store open 24 hours was Wal-Mart and thank goodness for the internet because I used your recipe and it worked like a charm!
I'm always paranoid every Spring now when I let my dog out at night.
Tracy said, on 3/26/2008 9:28:00 PM
Shoooo wheeee! I can smell your dog all the way over here! :) That has got to be the worst Easter you've ever had! UGH! I love that Easter Skunk though...so sneaky with that wicked grin!
Deb Johnson said, on 3/27/2008 8:06:00 AM
Love your illustrations on these! I don't like gossip either :)
Tony LaRocca said, on 3/27/2008 3:53:00 PM
They know that she's part of the great Easter Bunny conspiracy... Cute pic, as always!
Random York said, on 3/28/2008 9:49:00 AM
Great, Great stuff Kate- the Gossip piece strikes true- John
Digital Scott's Illustrationblog said, on 4/1/2008 8:59:00 PM
What a story!!!
Keeley Nolan said, on 4/2/2008 1:49:00 PM
Hope you found your chocolate marshmellow bunny! Gossip definitely hurts and you've illustrated it perfectly. Thanks for your nice comment. =)
David Domke is Professor of Communication and Head of Journalism at the University of Washington. Kevin Coe is a doctoral candidate in Speech Communication at the University of Illinois. They are authors of the The God Strategy: How Religion Became a Political Weapon in America. To learn more about the book check out their handy website here, to read more posts by them click here. In the post below they bid farewell to Mike Huckabee.
Marhsall Goldman is a Professor of Economics Emeritus at Wellesley College and Senior Scholar at the Davis Center for Russian Studies at Harvard University. In his forthcoming book, Petrostate: Putin, Power, and the New Russia , Goldman chronicles Russia’s dramatic reemergence on the world stage, illuminating the key reason for its rebirth: the use of its ever-expanding energy wealth to reassert its traditional great power ambitions. In the article below Goldman reflects on Medvedev’s recent victory in the Russian elections and on what it means for Russia.
Dmitri Medvedev’s election (or more accurately, selection) as president of Russia was not much of a cliffhanger. By eliminating any viable contender, his patron, Vladimir Putin did all he could to ensure his protégé’s election. For many Russians, there was little point in even bothering to show up at the polling station–everything had been decided in advance. Except for Medvedev, no other candidate (or even a potential candidate) was allowed meaningful access to TV, much less campaign funding. Large public rallies were restricted, if not banned outright. (more…)
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Gentle cadences full of poetry and quiet snapshots of the waking world fill How the Sun Got to Coco’s House by Bob Graham, one of my very favourite of all books published last year.
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What a great idea for a picture book! My daughter has two clocks in her room – on on British time and one on Chinese time (she is adopted from China). So we often think about what children on the other side of the world are doing at a particular time which keeps the big, wide, world in our minds. This book tunes right into that.
I love the ‘treasure hunt’ you gave the girls with the word ‘orrery’. It’s got me thinking – what words could I do it with….
Thank you.
Love the idea of two clocks Claire!
Thank you Zoe for your insightful and generous review of “How the Sun got to Coco’s House.” My publisher, Walker Books emailed it to me last night, and I loved the creative ideas and activities coming off the story. “Sunny Day,” by Elizabeth Mitchell provides a great soundtrack to the book. I so liked the banjo and the little girl’s voice together, and the animation too.
Normally I try not to go too far to find my stories. They are elusive and hard to recognise even when I’ve found them; often they just reveal themselves over time. So I try to keep them in reach of my drawing board.But somehow “Coco’s House” unfolded in a wintry northern hemisphere, a long way from my desk down here in Australia.
I just wrote it down quickly,( the sun already knew where it was going,) drew the pictures and finally received your comments. That’s a pretty good cycle of events in itself.
Cheers,
Bob Graham