Rozzie Land

Dec 6th- Sketched Out Advent Calendar

http://sketchedout.wordpress.com/category/christmassy/

Go visit Linda Silvestri's fun illustration advent calendar. And don't forget to click the image to see the "rest of the story". Such a fun idea!

Dec 2nd - wall paper

 

 

I am at my computer the majority of the day so I thought it was high time to replace my spring themed wallpaper. Here is a great one from my favorite softie artist, "jenny loves benny". If you visit her blog she has it on her right side bar for download. Her work is gorgeous, isn't it?

http://jennylovesbenny.blogspot.com

Vote! Cheerios spoonful of stories literacy project

 

  Click here to vote

One of my favorite children's book authors, Karma Wilson,  is involved with this project. Go here  to learn more.  And in the mean time, please vote!!

Julie & Julia

 

Took myself to a movie today and finally saw the film above. Oh, I loved it, loved it, loved it.   I was fascinated by the back story of the infamous Julia Childs (Meryl Streep - BRAVO!) while equally enjoying the trials and tribs of the Julie of today(Amy Adams- delightful!).  I connected with both -I think you all will too - finding themselves and pursuing publication.  

Anyway, I'm no critic, just enjoyed the film thoroughly. 

Okay, so if you go see the movie and get excited by the fried bread and tomato scene, here is a link to the recipe. You'll know what I mean when you see the film.

http://hungrynovelist.wordpress.com/2009/08/05/bruschetta-alla-julie-and-julia/

And if you're curious if Julie still blogs and want to visit...

 http://juliepowell.blogspot.com/

Go see the flick. =o) 

Bon Appetit!

SCBWI Conference Blog

http://sbwiconference.blogspot.com/

How wonderful to get a taste of the LA conference. Thanks Team Blog!

Stitchery Love

Photo courtesy of Lucy at Attic 24

Hello my bloggie peeps. Hope you are doing well today. It is pouring down rain here. We've had gallons of it so far this summer. Such a total 180 from the weather in Las Vegas, where we used to live. Speaking of which, we're driving there in a couple of weeks for vacation. Can't wait!

Anyway, I wanted to take a time out from work and share this pretty embroidered piece with you. The lovely Lucy at Attic24 makes these little treasures and is selling them at her blog. The one you see above is mine. =o) Seriously, I just commissioned it. Thanks, Lucy!  Isn't it delightful? 

I have been in love with embroidered applique for many years but haven't made the time to make my own. If you aren't a procrastinator like me, here's a book from my collection I'd recommend. I like how the frayed edges add to the design of the pieces:

Okay, back to work. =o)

Rock Stars of Reading- Jeff Mack

Rock Stars of Reading part 11: Jeff Mack

Posted using ShareThis

Twittering Autors & Illustrators

Tara Lazar has created a list of children's book authors and illustrators that are twittering. 

I hope more start "tweeting", it's a great extension to your existing blogs. 

Grey Gardens

Did any of you catch, "Grey Gardens" this weekend on HBO? Immediately after the film, I went online to see if I could find the real documentary and here it is!

http://tinyurl.com/dho2j2   

It's absolutely fascinating. After seeing the true characters,  I bet Jessica Lange and/or Drew Barrymore will receive awards for their portrayals. Spot on!

Rockstars of reading- Jarret Krosoczka

Rockstars of reading continues over at "Just One More Book". So fun to watch an illustrator work in his studio .http://tinyurl.com/cafsnt

Just One More Book- Diane DeGroat

Here is another fabulous video that Just One More Book posted today. It's Diane DeGroat sharing how she created her book,DOGS DON'T BRUSH THEIR TEETH, using photoshop. So interesting! She also discusses her transition to digital.  

Thanks for providing these great videos, Just One More Book! 

Lane Smith shares his process

Hop on over to "Just One More Book" and check out this great video of Lane Smith sharing his process.

What I particularly loved hearing was even "famous" illustrators have to go through revisions. =0) 

Jill Phillips

Totally loving this illustrator's work. Do you know Jill travels to Japan regularly to gather inspiration? Now, that is my idea of fun! I lived in Okinawa for a few years growing up and I would go back in a heart beat!! 

Bite Sized Jewelry

Bite Sized Jewelry asked if they could use my artwork for the new line of jewelry they are creating and I was happy to say yes. I think I'm going to order some for Emily and my niece.

Make My Day Award

Thank you so much, Deb, Anette and Holly for the "you make my day award." I'm very flattered.

To pass it on, here are the details:

1. Write a post with links to 5 blogs that make me think and/or make my day.
2. Acknowledge the post of the award giver.
3. Display the “You Make my Day Award” logo
4. Tell the award winners that they have won by commenting on their blogs with the news.

How hard to pick only 5. There are so many wonderful blogs out there now.
Many have been "hit" already so I'll try my best to share the wealth....

1. Liz Dubois of Chat Rabbit.
2. Karma Wilson of Good Karma
3. Carol Baicker-Mckee of Doodles and Noodles
4. Shawn of Doodle thoughts
5. Tara Chang Silver Apples of the Moon

Book Launch Party - Kathy Weller

Come join the fun over at the PBJ's and win yourself an autographed copy of Kathy's new book, THE MONTHS!

Gift Card Holder- My Little Mochi

If you are planning on giving gift cards for Christmas, pop on over to MY LITTLE MOCHI.
Myra has created the most darling little reindeer pouches . And better yet, she has posted a pattern.

I am definitely going to give this a try, thanks Myra!

Mother Earth And Her Children

Wow, I think I'm going to have to get this book!
Read this review to learn more about the story behind the quilt. Very touching.

Cyber Launch Party!

Thinking Blogger Award

I've received the "Thinking Blogger Award" from Anette. Thanks, Anette, I'm honored!
And now it's my turn to give out my five. And the awards go to...

Mother Reader- A mother, a reader and a fun read!

Cat and Jammers Studios- A Children's book illustrator who is passionate about what she does. I have really enjoyed reading Barbs journey as an author/illustrator. Inspiring. Her quirky characters are so entertaining.

Doodle Girl- A jack of all trades illustrator. I just love reading what she has to say along with enjoying her artwork and textile designs.

The Longstockings- Eight writers who discuss areas of interest to writers and readers of children's and teen literature. Although I don't write in this genre, I'm fascinated by what goes on behind the scenes.

Pretty Little Things- Lorie Marie is a self taught textile designer who freelances for Pottery Barn Kids. Such a cool gal. Again, I love reading about the behind the scenes.

Link Love

Thought I'd post some blogs that I've really enjoyed this week and thought you might too:

Cat and Jammers Studios- Barb shares her journey in the illustration world. Very inspiring post. Way to go Barb!

Green Bean Baby- Another inspiring post about the journey of following ones dreams.

Longstockings- This is one of my favorite blogs right now. (A group of children's book authors.)

Weller Wishes-  Meet Kathy! Check out the neat "toys" she's been playing with.

Silver Apples of the Moon-- I want to go to Italy! I defy you to look at Tara's travel photos and say you don't too. ;o)

Book Cover Design

A blog post about illustrating book covers...

Mishaps & Adventures

Robert's Snow 2007

http://www.robertssnow.com/

I'm thrilled to say that I received my wooden snowflake in the mail today. I will be contributing in this years Robert's Snow's fundraiser! This cause is very dear to my heart. (My father in law and mother in law both passed away recently from this horrific disease.)

I can't wait to start planning on how to decorate this flake but I have to admit I'm a little nervous now too.
I want to do a good job since it will be auctioned off.

Please keep Grace and Robert in your thoughts and prayers while they are in San Antonio. My heart goes out to them and all that they are having to face.

Cut Paper Quilt

Addendum: If anyone reads this and is interested in participating, please visit the link to her site. She is looking for contributors for Aug thru Dec.

Dawbis is creating a cut paper quilt and I am a part of her May edition. I really enjoyed working on this challenge because you were only allowed to use the scraps of paper that she provided and create something based on the theme, "A day in the life".

Here is the paper I received:

The striped strip of paper was my inspiration. It looked so much like a stack of books to me.

A day in the life of Roz, a "fan" of children's books.

(the red background is the backside of one of the decorative papers)

Teacher Appreciation

This week is "Teacher Appreciation Week" and I want to recommend a gift. It's "Mrs. Spitzer's Garden" by Edith Pattou, illustrated by the talented Tricia Tusa.

Amazon book description:
Mrs. Spitzer is a wise teacher who knows many things. She knows about gardens. She knows about children. She knows how similar they are. And how they will flourish if tended lovingly.

Emily and Kevvy gave this to their teachers this week. I had them tape a school picture of themselves on the front end paper with a personal message to their teacher.
If you can't get this in time for "teacher appreciation" then consider it for the end of the school year.
Your childs teacher will LOVE it.

PB Junkies Blog

 

The crit group I'm in has started a blog.

http://www.pbjunkies.blogspot.com/

Drop by for a visit and feel free to comment.
It's a public blog and we look forward to chatting with other Picture Book Junkies!

Editorial Anonymous

This looks interesting! (Found it on write4kids.com)

http://editorialanonymous.blogspot.com/

"Want to know what's really on the mind of an editor?  Have a peek at Editorial Anonymous, a new blog offering the insights and opinions of a nameless, mysterious children's book editor.  There's some fascinating insight about life behind the slushpile, and some pretty good -- if blunt -- advice for writers."

Woof

http://aplacetobark.blogspot.com/index.html

I want them all.

Blog-aholic

My name is Roz and I am a blogaholic.

I was SO proud of myself in January when I whittled down my blog roll to 100. A few months later and I'm nearing 200 again. I know it's crazy. But having "bloglines" does save me a lot of time and makes reading much more manageable. She said defensively. =o)
Here are some blogs that are new-ish on my list . Misery loves company and all of that.

Eventhough, you won't be miserable reading them and neither am I. =o)

Illustration

Picture-Bookie Illustrator Showcase

Grace Lin

Mo Willems  (also check out his new website)

Writing

Cynthia Lord

Always Lisa

Shrinking Violets (great for Illustrators as well)

Crafting

Kleas

Betz White

Paper Quilt

Tomie DePaola Award

On the last day of the conference, an awards ceremony was held to announce the winners of the illustrators display contest.
A panel of judges picked three illustrators. There were over 150 submissions. What a daunting task, the entries were fabulous!
Results:
3rd place http://www.wilsonswain.com/
2nd place http://www.lisafalkensternart.com/
1st place http://www.roccoart.com/

Then Tomie DePaola came to the podium to announce his winner for the illustrator display.
Before he announced the winner,though, he wanted to acknowledge 3 other illustrators. Guess what? I was one of those three illustrators.  Holy cow, it's a moment I'll never forget!

To make the moment even more thrilling, the other two illustrators acknowledged were both friends of mine.
Patrice Barton, fellow pbj member
and Lula Chang

YAY Patty and Lula!!!!

Many congratulations to the Tomie D award recipient, Brian Gerrity. His acceptance speech was very touching, although I wouldn't really call it a speech because he was too emotional to speak. =o)
Very sweet.

* I must confess that I found out the names of all the winners via Courtneys blog.
It was such a treat to meet her in person. I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot of her work in the near future.
Her 'grandmas' are a hoot!

NYC SCBWI Conference

As I write this I am imagining the tune, "I've had the time of my life" playing in the background because I truly did just that, had the time of my life!

I regret that I am the lamest photographer in the world. I did try but when I uploaded them this morning the majority are just smudgey messes. What a disappointment. Barb has taken some great pics as well as written a great overview of the conference. I would hightail it over there to get a look, if I were you.

*addendum*
More links for the conference:
Liz
Ruth
Courtney
Dee

You really have to go to one of these things to really get the most out of it. As I sit here looking at the few notes I did manage to jot down, they are lifeless. The delivery of the words and the aura of the speakers brought just as much to the experience as what they had to share.

Still, here are a few quotes that I have taken to heart and will cherish as I continue on this journey. I can't wait to go again next year!

Susan Cooper - Author/ The Dark Is Rising
Such a mesmerizing speaker. Could have listened to her all day.

"Don't let the noise of the marketplace drown out the whisper of your subconscious."

Anne Barshares- Sister Hood of the Traveling Pants
Such a lovely lady.

"I don't know what I'm doing. Really, I don't know what I'm doing."

(Of course this is a joke, working hard at her craft is what she is doing.)

Elizabeth Van Dorn- Editorial Director/Harcourt

"Make it meaningful."
"Don't lose heart, if you find your story out there, change it up a little."

Donna Mark - Bloomsbury Art Director

Regarding Dummies 
Focus more on the quality of the work you are sending rather than just the presentation.

"If you're going to wrap an empty box, it's still empty."

Jane Yolen ....JANE YOLEN!  =o)

"Learn to love yourself and your own work. Stand by your work, warts and all."
"Savor revision."

Brian Selznick- Author/illustrator
BTW you have to read his book, "Invention of Hugo Cabret". Such an innovative way of building a story with text and illustration. I read it on the plane ride home and it's marvelous. What a delightful speaker he was. So down to earth and transparent.

"Struggling and fear is part of the process."
"What matters is what happens at the turn of the page."

Katherine Patterson- Author / Bridge to Terabithia
Simply moving speaker.  I was either laughing or crying the whole way through. What a storyteller.

"Dare failure. If I didn't dare failure I may never have become a writer at all."
"Emotional memory, rather than photographic memory."

Betsy Lewin- Illustrator/ Click Clack Moo

"I'll never be them, I have to be me."

Valentines Day

Happy Valentines Day to one and all!

Here is a children's book I simply adore which is appropriate for the day:

by Michaela Morgan

I initially bought it because I love Caroline Jane-Church's use of specialty papers and pressed flowers in her illustrations. But the story is equally delightful. It's about two bunnies that share how they feel about one another through secret gifts because they are too shy to say it in person. They hide their love letters and flowers in the hollow of a log for each to find.  A family of mice come across the secret gifts when they take refuge from a rain storm in the log. It isn't until they have torn the letters into pieces to make a warm nest for themselves that they realize they have ruined a love connection. =o)
In the end the mice recreate the papers into a new love letter and the bunnies find out how the other feels.
It's just such a cute "happily ever after" story , check it out.

And I have to say a Happy Valentines Day to me, because I just found out that my name was drawn over at Sweet Pea's blog. I am the winner of "Sparky"   who will be coming to live with me in Vegas. YAY!!
As well as being a talented illustrator, Susan also enjoys creating "softies" in her not so spare time.
Thank you Sweet Pea!

Cyber hugs & chocolate to all that visit the ol' blog today.

PS I had an awesome time in NYC and will post about it shortly.  =o))

Christmas Giving

Hope everyone had a lovely Christmas!
I wanted to share a couple of finds with you before the New Year catches up with us.

Both are such wonderful ways to absorb yourself in the spirit of giving. Please take time to read both, they are well worth it and will inspire you for next year.

First is the "Little White Envelope".  Although this story has been around since the 1980's it was new to me when I read it on, "readable feast".

And second,

"Christmas Jars", by Jason F. Wright.  It's a quick read that you can enjoy in an evening sitting.  Lovely.

NY Winter Conference

 

I signed up for the Winter SCBWI Conference. I can't believe I braved it! This will be my first national conference. I'm so nervous and excited all rolled up into one.

I'm nervous about:
Flying on my own,
Going to a big city like NY,
Being surrounded by such talented auth/illustrators!

I'm excited about:
Flying on my own,
Going to a big city like NY,
Being surrounded by such talented auth/illustrators!

Really, what makes me the most nervous is the thought of getting myself from the airport to the hotel after I land in NY and then getting myself from the hotel to the airport when I leave.
I am notorious for getting lost.
But like hubby said... just plan to leave really early and give myself plenty of time. This is not my nature but it's going to have to be if I want to stay sane.

Oh I'm so excited when I just think about the fun of it all. And guess what? My PBJ crit group will be going as well so it will be like a reunion! I can't wait to see them and also my other online buddies that will be going. Please let me know if you plan on attending, I'd love to get together.
I think beyond the exceptional speakers that are lined up, it's just so inspiring to be surrounded by friends pursuing the same goals and dreams.

Blue Rose Girls

Check it out, http://bluerosegirls.blogspot.com/. 

Breaking News!

Newspaper fun

Thanks Loobylu for the cool link!

Needle Felting

Here is a portion of an illustration I just finished for a client.

Months ago I ordered a needle felt kit to make a duck . Unfortunately, I still haven't made time to make him but the tools from the kit came in really handy! I am so happy with this little chap and he was so fun to make!

If you are interested in learning more about needle felting, check out Marieke's blog Wol En Zo. She makes the cutest little characters and has a couple of tutorials up as well. Very Inspirational!

A Place to Bark!

Check out this great blog created by a multi media artist who also is working very hard to build her own rescue shelter. It looks like she will be holding an art auction (is looking for artists to participate I think)to help earn some money for her rescue efforts. Very cool. Go take a look and please help spread the word!

A PLACE TO BARK

The carnival is in Town!

Carnival of blogs- childrens literature

Check this out, you may see some "rides" you recognize!

More fun links

Can you tell I'm not very busy with illustration work ? I'm embarrassed to admit that unless I have a deadline, I find it very difficult to motivate myself to create.

So here are a couple of links I'm enjoying and thought you might as well. My apologies, I can't remember where I originally found these.

Here's  a librarian in New York, lot's of fun tidbits ... http://fusenumber8.blogspot.com/

And here's a link to a literary agent. Although this isn't an agent for the kids market , it's still an interesting read. When oh when is a children's lit/art agent going to start a blog? Soon I hope. http://pubrants.blogspot.com/

New Domain name and URL

I'm still having problems with my current website and had to change web hosts, unfortunately.

My new url is http://www.rozfulcher.com

If you have my link on your website or you've bookmarked me, please change it when you have some time. Sorry for the inconvenience!

Patrice Barton

Here's another fun link for you. I'm so tickled that Patrice Barton has started a blog! Her artwork is something else...so much life in her lines!  http://pbarton.blogspot.com/ 

Ruth McNally Barshaw

Surely, you all have seen this already but I wanted to post about it as well because I am such a fan.

Check out Ruth McNally Barshaws illustrated journal account of this years SCBWI National New York conference. I just finished and it is a hoot!

I want to say a public congratulations to Ruth for selling her book idea to Bloomsbury.  She is so deserving and her enthusiasm over it is contagious! It just goes to show again that the "heart" in a persons work really shines through and will grab an editors attention. Yay Ruth!

John Nez

Yay! Just discovered that John Nez has a blog up and running.
Check it out.

Good news!

I have been trying to keep quiet until I'm officially on her website but I give up, I'm too excited.
I have an illustration rep!

We have been chatting back and forth for the past couple of weeks and I'm thrilled to say we are in the process of signing contracts and planning a marketing strategy.

I can't say enough good things about Janet , she is so warm, professional and encouraging...everything that I have been hoping to find in a rep.  I am really looking forward to working with her and hope it is viable for the both of us!

cute overload

Blogging is like exercising... the longer you go without doing it, the harder it is to get started again!

So to get back into the swing of things I thought I'd post my new favorite blog. I discovered it while scanning the bloggie nominees.

If you're into "cute" and need a smile, this is a must see!

CUTE OVERLOAD

Puzzling

Growing up, a winter past time was working on massive puzzles with my parents. We would go to the "pic 'n save" and spend hours choosing the "perfect puzzle" with lots and LOTS of pieces.

So, when my parents came out this Christmas,we decided , hey why not, let's do a puzzle! I had forgotten what a pleasure it is to sit and mull over a complex puzzle. Mum and I would stay up til the wee hours of the morning "puzzling" and gabbing determined to get it finished before they had to go home.

I enjoyed working on this so much that the "puzzling" continues and I highly recommend it if you are looking for something to do to relax.

(Emily and I recently finished this cute puppy one.)

We start ours on a large piece of poster board on our dining table and just have it sitting there for when the mood strikes...which is usually while I'm cooking dinner or right before bedtime.

Okay, so what does this have to do with illustration? Well for me, the more I'm working on these, the more I'm thinking about how fun it would be to have puzzles out in the world with my artwork on them.

I've decided I'm going to work up some designs this year and start submitting to publishers that produce puzzles. Check out your CWIM book and you'll find several listings if you are interested in submitting your work as well. Storybook artwork is perfect for puzzles. And sitting here working on these, gives me a good sense of what works/what doesn't as far as colors and design.

Another idea ...what a fun gift a puzzle would be for family members.  Imagine next year, giving your children , favorite niece and nephews a puzzle to work on that you designed!

I googled "personalized puzzles" and there are several companies out there. I think the one I'm going to try is "Positively Puzzled".  Looks to be a pretty easy process. You send a high resolution jpg in the appropriate dimensions and bing bang boom..a puzzle is made. I'll let you know how it goes.

Happy puzzling!

Agent Obscura

This is an excellent post by "agent Obscura".

Illo Friday- Dream

 Some people dream of success while others wake up and work hard at it.~ Anonymous

I really like this quote.

It's so exciting when we have a dream, isn't it? A vision of something that we want to accomplish that keeps us up at night just thinking about all the possibilities!

Then... the hard part comes, working our dream into a reality. GROAN. It may take weeks, months or even years to reach our goals and often along the way we will encounter discouragement and uncertainty.

One of the most self-sabotaging things we can do is compare ourselves to others.  I have been guilty of this myself and if you want to set yourself off course, well by golly, that's a guaranteed way to do it!

Don't go there. When you see others doing well in an area that you are pursuing, celebrate their accomplishments! One day it will be you. I truly believe that there is a great plan for all of us. More importantly, everyone's journey is unique and often we have to keep our blinders on and stay true to our own path. Timing is everything.

I'm sorry, I'm not trying to "pollyanna" you to death with this post! But I do feel I can talk from experience.

I have been illustrating professionally for nearly 6 years.  If I look at it day by day , I've accomplished my goals at a snails pace. But what is important is that I HAVE accomplished goals and achieved things I never would have dreamed starting out! And the same will be true for you once you start stepping out in faith and putting that extra effort towards your goal.

Yes, you will experience rejection. Yes, you will hit roadblocks and detours. But I can tell you with complete certainty that if you embrace the set backs, they will lead you in directions you may not have even considered otherwise.

Here's a good article by fellow illustrator , Amy Moreno. She sat down and reevaluated her goals and shared them this week on her blog.

What are my dreams?

*To have Emma Felt published and in the hands of toddler girls everywhere.

*To have a series of "Felt" books.

*To be illustrating numerous toddler books in my felt collage style.

Okay...time to get to work on making that a reality!

Unstoppable

http://www.unstoppable.net/

An inspiring website that celebrates women who pursue their goals and are "unstoppable". 

Sign up for the free e-newsletter. It's encouraging!