ABOUT

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Do you know someone who is always on an adventure or has a story to tell? That's me. Some folks are just born to be storytellers, and after many years, I have accepted the calling.

I find stories in the most unusual places, and most often start to form from a real-life situation. Stories are everywhere, and I especially love stories and illustrations featuring critters and creatures.

Making children and grownups smile is the preeminent goal of my illustrations and writing.

I look forward to tapping into your inner child, and helping you to find that light.

THE BEGINNINGS

I grew up in the tiny town of Otego, New York, where we spent most of our days in the woods or playing in the nearby creek. We climbed large rocks, explored forests, and swam in the "bubble bath".

On snowy days, when school was closed, we played a card game with my mother called "Authors". We loved it and learned the names and stories behind many great works of literature.

Mom worked as a librarian's assistant in the local school, and her love of books, especially children's books with beautiful illustrations, inspired me to write and illustrate. When I write, I hear her voice.

When I married my husband Peter, a musician, his quick wit and outrageous humor only added to my love of fun and laughter. You'll find his little additions of wordplay and humor in everything I write and illustrate.

Today, we spend our summers living on a boat in the Finger Lakes and our winters between the beach and snow. We currently have eleven-plus grandchildren and love watching them explore and blossom creatively.

The lovely Rosemont Inn, Montrose, Pennsylvania, where I was blessed to live and serve as innkeeper. (Photo Credits - Penny Eldred)

THE CHANCE

My stories and illustrations sat idle for long periods. Work and life got in the way. The stories were calling me from a box on the shelf while more and more were forming in my head.

After retiring from innkeeping and losing a financially valuable corporate job, I suddenly found the time to finish illustrations, find new inspiration, take courses, and read books.

I am a self-taught artist, and many resources are available online where you can learn how to publish your work. I will share a few of them with you in this space.

I encourage you to finish that book, create new works of art, and look for a story under every rock and leaf!

Bend the rules and break out of the box!

I recently discovered there are no rules for my artwork. I do not have to listen to the voices of teachers from my past, naysayers, or anyone else (ok, maybe my husband who is my biggest critic and fan and encourages me to do better, and it works).

My bent towards staying in the lines, obeying the rules, and following directions was, in many ways, a detriment to my art.

I encourage you to break out of the box, mix mediums and materials, and experiment. Most of all, have fun and enjoy the process. Do not worry about the end product. There are no limits. Enjoy!

Google Sites

Report abuse