Betsy Snyder

welcome 2012

2012-01-02T14:25:00.000-05:00

Hugs for a happy 2012!

party animals finger puppets!

2011-12-13T14:17:00.000-05:00

Just in time for the holidays, the party animals finger puppets I illustrated for Mudpuppy are now available here. I think they would would make great party favors. I had so much fun working on this project...I love the idea that the child's fingers become the animals' legs. Oscar, my real-life dog-friend, even made the cut! WOOF-WOOF! Can't you tell he's a big party animal?

fallin' in love....again

2011-11-04T17:56:00.000-04:00

Every year it's the same. Summer winds down, and I get mopey about saying good-bye to warm weather. I hold on desperately to those last glorious, hot, sunny days. Bare feet. Freckled cheeks. Flowy skirts. Fresh-cut grass. Open windows. Cricket chirps. Firefly nights.

Then, whether I like it or not, fall settles in. And "Oh yeah!", I remember how much I actually love fall and everything that comes with it. Cool, crisp skies. Low, golden sun. Earthy air. Crunchy hikes. Backyard bonfires. Distant drums of the high school band at half-time. Harvest time. Hay rides. Ohio apple-pickin'. Pumpkin patches. Halloweeeeen! Front-yard-maple red against patches of bright blue.

So today, as I do this time every year, I declare Fall as "my favorite and my best" (as Charlie and Lola would say). Always. Forever. That is, until I see the first snowflake...I'm fickle like that about my seasons.

Wishing all of you a leaf-crunchin', apple-munchin', fall-lovin' weekend.

best fan mail EVER

2011-10-07T13:57:00.001-04:00

Earlier this week I was working on finishing up a manuscript to send off to my editor, which is always a bit scary for me since I'm less confident about my writing than I am with my art. Isn't it funny (and wonderful) how affirmations seem to come your way just when you need them to? Perfect, unexpected little surprises that you need in a BIG way are the definition (at least in the unofficial Betsy dictionary) of my favorite word: serendipity.

So, I thought I'd share three-year-old Adler's heartwarming "fan mail" to me. I got this letter via her mom and dad's email. Dictation begins:

I love you, Betsy Snyder.
I love Sweet Dreams Lullaby. I like all the pages.
I have the same quilt from my Bubbe like the rabbit's.

How do you feel?
What books do you like?

I live in Pepper Pike.
I live in northeast Ohio, too.

From Adler

So, how could I resist? I immediately wrote back:

Please tell Adler:

Thank you, Adler Indiana.
I LOVE that you love my book!
I also have a quilt, one that my mother made for me. The bunny in the book looks like my pet bunny Lu-Lu.

I feel happy that you wrote me a letter. And I feel hungry because it's time for dinner.
I like books about animals and nature and friends the best.

I live in an old house.
I live in northeast Ohio, too!

From your book buddy Betsy

Thank you, Adler. This was just the motivation and reminder I needed.

kindle surprise!

2011-10-02T12:51:00.000-04:00

So, I got a fun surprise call from my friend Megan yesterday morning. She was all excited to tell me she saw my book Sweet Dreams Lullaby in the new Kindle Fire promo video on Amazon.com. WHAT?!?!!!! WOO-HOO!!! I had no idea! Now that was fun news to get on a cold, rainy Saturday morning.

You can view the video here, or as an attachment below. Look for the book cover at 1:03 min. and 2 interior spreads at 1:15 min.

peaceable kingdom featured artist

2011-09-26T16:46:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Peaceable Kingdom Press for choosing me as their current "featured artist". What a great group of creative peeps to work with!

tons of trucks! sneak peak

2011-09-12T19:25:00.000-04:00

Just a little announcement to let you know my next illustrated book, Tons of Trucks, by Sue Fliess, comes out July 2012. It seems so far away, but I know it will be here before I know it. Book description reads:

Preschoolers meet many different, useful vehicles and the adorable animals who drive them in this playfully rhythmic tour of trucks. Presented in the same successful format of Matthew Van Fleet's Tails, bright colors, touchable textures, shiny metallic paper, and moving parts are a feast for little ones' eyes and fingers. Like the sweet animal characters who drive them, kids are sure to shout "We love all trucks!"

It's not available for pre-order just yet, but should be soon, via Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Amazon, or your favorite bookstore. I had so much fun illustrating this interactive book and have definitely developed a new life-long appreciation for trucks!

SCBWI Discover Your Voice conference

2011-09-06T10:18:00.000-04:00

I get a lot of inquiries about writing and illustrating for children and how to get into publishing. I always want to help talented artists and writers and put them in touch with the right resources—every big career opportunity that has come my way has been the result of someone taking the time to give me advice and connect me with the right people. While I always wish I could thoroughly answer all the questions I get, and I do my best to help, the truth is that sometimes I don't feel qualified to answer every publishing question because all I really know is my own experience (and I don't think it's typical). So many paths can lead to publishing—I found mine through my illustration career and a connection I made while working at American Greetings, which is a different approach than what a writer would need to take. Most of the time I still feel really new to publishing...I definitely don't have it figured out yet, but I am guessing that is probably how I will always feel.

This year I've been invited to be a faculty presenter at the annual northern Ohio SCBWI conference, called "Discover Your Voice". I'll be giving 2 presentations, one more focused on inspiration and building visual narrative skills, the other focused on designing the whole book package and creating an engaging book experience. I'm looking forward to being in the mix of so much talent, at a conference where there is a range of perspectives and something for everyone. I feel like I can help in my own way and that I don't have to be an expert on all-things-publishing.

I admit I have a love/hate relationship with public speaking. I love the way I can connect with people and give back and the boost it brings me after the fact, but I hate the anxiety that precedes it. The funny thing that comes along with getting a children's book published (which nobody prepared me for), is the requests for public appearances and the sudden need to also fill the role as child entertainer and public orator. I think a lot of artists and writers by nature seek isolation, or at least solitude, more than they seek the spotlight, so this was not (and still is not) a natural transition for me. But, I am really grateful for the opportunity to attend the conference, meet some new colleagues and share a little piece of me. And I am finding that as my presentations take shape, I am learning new things and inspiring myself—I hope I can do the same for others (though I still secretly feel like I should be the one in the audience, and I will be when I am not presenting).

If you're in the Cleveland area on September 23 and 24 and are interested in attending the conference, click here for all the info. And here are my two presentations:

1. Creating engaging and interactive book experiences for the youngest of audiences
TARGET LEVEL - Beginner to intermediate illustrators and writers. (Writers may find this helpful.)
CONTENT/TOPIC - Learn how to format your book idea, make the most of your book components, and think beyond paper and ink. A book is more than just pictures and words—it's the whole package!
Illustrator/Author Betsy Snyder will share her beginning-to-end process of creating novelty and picture
books with special features. Find out how to choose devices from your visual toolbox that best deliver the message of your book, including format, size, materials, mechanics, art style, layout, perspective, color palette, cover design, end papers, and more!

2. Nurturing the Visual Storyteller in YOU: an artist's perspective on staying inspired, turning ideas into opportunities and making the most of your creative journey
TARGET LEVEL - Beginner to intermediate illustrators and writers. (Writers may find this helpful.)
CONTENT/TOPIC - Illustrator/Author Betsy Snyder will take you behind the scenes of children's book art, sharing the inspiration and challenges behind her books HAIKU BABY and SWEET DREAMS LULLABY and offering additional examples of techniques artists can employ to create another level of narrative through pictures. Illustrators can gain insights on choosing the storytelling style that fits, growing a kid-friendly portfolio and sustaining a career in children's publishing. Betsy will also touch on how inventive self-promotion and social media ideas can woo clients, win the work you want, and even create new and unexpected book opportunities.

earth day award!

2011-04-22T12:52:00.002-04:00

I have an exciting Earth Day announcement...Hoot Owl Hoot!, a cooperative board game I worked on for Peaceable Kingdom Press, has won a Dr. Toy Best Green Product award for 2011! The review shares, "Hoot Owl Hoot! is 100% Green. All materials - box and inside contents - are made with FSC papers and printed with soy-based inks. FSC means Forest Stewardship Council and that means ecologically responsible management of our world's forests. It's a game that is good for the planet and good for kids!" The cool thing is that the quality is so good that when I got my product samples, I didn't even realize the game was 100% green until I read about it on the box.

I was also impressed to read about how green the Peaceable Kingdom company is as a whole (but it doesn't surprise me because they are just nice people to work and I'm sure the earth thinks so too!). You can read more about the game and company's earth-friendly efforts here, and see some of the other products that share this year's award here.

Also, for every Amazon.com review of one of Peaceable Kingdom Press's cooperative board games, they will donate that game to a school/teacher. Email info@peaceablekingdom.com and tell them you wrote a review and provide the shipping details for the school. You can read about it on Peaceable Kingdom's facebook page.

Happy Earth Day!

storybook festival this saturday!

2011-04-12T11:18:00.000-04:00

Looking for something fun to do with the kiddos this weekend? How about a roadtrip on Saturday to the annual Storybook Festival in Fremont, Ohio?

The Storybook Festival is a community project for all families with children ages 0-8. The day is full of hands-on activities, celebrity readings, a TV mascot, an author or illustrator, storytellers, and more. It is a free event sponsored by many agencies and businesses in the community. I will be the visiting author this year and will be doing a series of short presentations and book signings.

I'd love to see you there!

hoot owl hoot! and more

2011-02-08T11:19:00.004-05:00

I am so excited to announce that "Hoot Owl Hoot!", a board game I worked on for Peaceable Kingdom Press, is now available! (Ages 4+). Click on product photo to find out how to purchase.

Here are some additional Peaceable Kingdom products with my artwork, also available now:

And these sticker kits (click here) are still available also.

hedgehogs in love

2011-01-23T09:36:00.000-05:00

Here's a Valentine's Day card I did for Papyrus, in stores now. The hedgehogs have glittery spines! And I love how Papyrus paired it with the decorative heart envelope. You can order it here.

on a happy note...

2011-01-06T09:35:00.001-05:00

Such a sweet piece and message to be reminded of at the beginning of my day. Thank you Matteo Negrin for your inspiration. Just wanted to pass it on...

for corey...

2011-01-05T01:32:00.000-05:00

South 47, monotype, 2009

Just wanted to pause and share the work of Corey Parker, an incredibly gifted and prolific artist who lost his battle with cancer last week. Corey was a colleague of mine when I worked at American Greetings — his artwork, spirit and smile were, and will continue to be, an inspiration to so many. Please take a moment to appreciate Corey's talent and beautiful work. He will be missed.

Corey's blog
monoprint series at ilikey

(Thanks to Jamey for the links).

the little things

2010-12-28T12:43:00.001-05:00

This has been a weird Christmas. My husband and I are in the midst of a major house renovation on our old fixer-upper, so we have been displaced from home for about 6 weeks now. I am not a major holiday decorater, but I do love our Christmas tree, which we had to forgo this year. Because I am kitchen-less, I could not do any baking, which is difficult since I like making and sharing yummy things, especially this time of year. No chai, no meringue cookies, no rum cakes, no pumpkin chocolate chip bread. We also limited the gift-giving this year, and for the first time, didn't do gifts for each other. I never understood how couples could just "not do gifts"...I mean, really, nothing, not even one little thing? It always seemed so sad and unromantic. So, when my husband suggested it, I thought, "Really, are we already THERE after only 3 years of marriage? Have we already become the no gift-giving couple?" I admit I was a little disappointed—I love picking goodies out for my husband, and he is such a good gift-giver to me—but I also knew it was the right thing for us this year. With all of the demands of this renovation, we needed to simplify, not just financially but also logistically.

But please don't feel sorry for me, like I used to for couples that didn't do gifts. Not being home for the holidays and a necessity to simplify Christmas turned out to be the biggest gift for both of us. The WHOLE story is that when we were in Savannah for Thanksgiving, and made the pact to not buy gifts, instead we purchased a print that we both loved and could look forward to hanging up in our new old house. Instead we were not up all night wrapping a pile of gifts. Instead we got a hotel room on Christmas Eve so we could have a little quiet bit of time together before the family flurry of the holidays. Instead we were able to focus on what our house needs to become a better home for us. Instead I was better able to appreciate the little things that are not presents wrapped under the tree, like moonlight on the snow, a brisk walk to the bakery, and a woolly pair of boots. Instead of focusing on what I didn't have this year, I was forced to be thankful for what I did have.

Next year, we will finally be home for the holidays, and while I have already announced to my husband that we are going to "do it up" next year, what I really mean, gifts or no gifts, is that we are going to doubly celebrate all the little things of the season that make home so special, like the waft of pumpkin chocolate chip bread baking in the oven and chai simmering on the stove, the soft glow and sparkle of ornaments on a tree, a dog-to-come curled up in a corner, a warm fire, a roomful of laughter (or quiet), and a chilly night to make me thankful for a cozy home. Those are going to be my gifts, and it's worth waiting for.

Happy new year to all. May you find peace in the season and comfort in the little things.

p.s. I found a loophole in the no-gift policy. Santa can still deliver gifts. Like a mercury-glass polar bear ornament you just have to have because it reminds you of "Bear", the stuffed animal your very special grandma gave to you one Christmas long ago. That's allowed, of course (*wink*).

mermaid birthday girl

2010-12-04T13:44:00.001-05:00

I just got my samples in the mail for this card I did for Papyrus a while back. All the gray areas are actually silver glitter foil, so it is really sparkly in person! And it comes with these puffy stickers as well (below...imagine a glittery background!). The art director and I both LOVE anything underwater-related, so this was a really fun project to work on. This is definitely my idea of a "dream" birthday party!

buckeye book fair this saturday!

2010-11-05T12:08:00.003-04:00

Come see me at the Buckeye Book Fair in Wooster, Ohio this Saturday from 9:30-4:00! I'll have 5 different books to sign. It's a great chance to pick up autographed books for holiday gifts, support Ohio authors and contribute to literacy efforts. Click here for all the info.

And don't you love the poster this year? Artwork by Will Hillenbrand from the book Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep.

wicked cool new england trip

2010-10-29T13:34:00.012-04:00

Jeff and I took a trip to Maine and New Hampshire in mid-October. Geographically, the New England area is everything we love...mountains, ocean, lakes, rocky coastline. I am definitely dreaming of living there someday, but that's been a dream since I first visited as a kid. Maybe it's meant to be?

While we were there, we attended a family get-together and 90th birthday celebration for my Great Uncle Howard and Great Aunt Trudie (his wife)...this is the 3 of us together. I haven't seen them, or much of this side of the family, for 10 years, so it was a reunion I will definitely treasure, especially since Uncle Howard is the only one still living from my Grandma's generation. Also, my Uncle Don and Aunt Karen live in Maine, so we spent a lot of time with them.

Here are some photo highlights of the trip:

We stayed in the White Mountains for a few days...

some views of Mt. Washington...

coastal Maine beachcombing...

so many snails!

eric carle is the cutest!

2010-10-06T13:08:00.004-04:00

Just a little post to say I think Eric Carle is the cutest (I have the biggest crush). Have you seen his blog? What I think is so sweet is that when I read his posts, I totally see "him" in his books. I mean, he writes a little account about his day and it sounds like a book...I love it. He has such a beautiful way of relating to the world that is so simple and wholesome and universal. What an inspiration to so many. What a difference just one person can make.

peaceable kingdom sticker kits

2010-09-28T14:17:00.004-04:00

I noticed these sticker kits I did for Peaceable Kingdom Press up on their website, so I guess it's okay to share now! I got to meet some of the great people I work with there back in May when I was visiting my brother in Berkeley—it was so nice to meet everyone in person.

I have some more fun products coming out with them in the future, but for now they're secret—I'll share them when I can.

new mexico art and writing retreat

2010-09-27T16:58:00.009-04:00

A week ago I got back from an intimate art and writing retreat near Taos, New Mexico. Jenny Kostecki-Shaw, an artist-author friend, began planning and organizing back in February, and on Sept. 16-20, we had the first retreat of which I hope will be many more. The location was perfect—right in Jenny's backyard, abundant with flowers, veggies, chickens and sunshine.

Being a freelancer is so rewarding in many ways, but it can be quite solitary and time-demanding. To avoid burn-out, it's important to me to feel connected to others and stay inspired and passionate about what I do. Sometimes I forget I really need to get out of my comfort zone and mix things up. I expected to come back from the retreat somewhat creatively recharged, and of course, I did—but it was much more than that for me. I almost feel re-set as a person. For me, this workshop retreat wasn't so much about producing great creative stuff—it was more about needing to physically step out of my creative life for a few days and have a new experience. And it certainly helped to be surrounded by beautiful scenery, and most especially, 4 wonderfully talented women. It was an honor to be included and share ideas in this circle. I feel an awakened connection and a sense of belonging to other artists facing the same challenges that I struggle with, and knowing that I don't bear that alone gives me a new kind of strength that I will carry with me.

See lots of retreat and Santa Fe Folk Art Museum photos on my facebook page "Betsy Snyder Illustration".

And please check out the work of these very talented artists and authors (I know the inside scoop on what's in the pipeline for all of them and it is VERY exciting!):

gram's lemon frost pie in chocolate shell

2010-07-07T12:08:00.021-04:00

I made a special treat this 4th of July...lemon frost pie in chocolate shell. I think it will be a new summer holiday tradition. I hadn't made it in years, but it is hands-down my most favorite dessert EVER. I mean it. I've never had anything like it—it's heaven on a fork. The recipe belonged to my dear Grandma Lyon (not sure where it came from originally, though I'd love to give credit). It was the dessert I requested most often for my birthday "cake", and I remember Gram always teasing me, "Are you SURE you want that?" because it took some effort to make with four different uses of the mixing bowl. But I know she secretly enjoyed it as much as I did, at least the eating part. And the watching-me-eat-it part.

So when I made the pie this time, vivid memories of my Gram (who I lost last November) came flooding back. The memories were welcomed but unexpected and certainly unintended—I simply set out to make some yummy pie for a picnic. But I suddenly found myself in one of those powerful, all-encompassing sensory recollections I mourn for and thought I'd never experience again, like a hello kiss on her cheek, the character of her hand, the lingering of her Lily of the Valley perfume, or in this instance, the intimacy of a shared and sacred treat. Sure, I have plenty of material reminders of Gram around me every day—sentimental keepsakes such as old photographs, the necklace of hers that I wore at my wedding, a playbill from a Robert Goulet performance of South Pacific we saw together, a cow-shaped milk pitcher that served me breakfast-in-bed during our many sleep-overs. But what I thought I'd lost forever were the nuances of my grandma's presence—the way the room just felt like her. For a brief moment in the kitchen, time stopped, even reversed, and the bright wafts and taste-tests of the lemon pie gave me back my Gram, fully and completely, reminding me that no one we love is ever truly lost or taken from us, that even the permanence and physical separation of death is temporary and only perceived. I found myself instantly in tears, not because I was sad for my loss, but because I was thankfully surprised that the feelings and memories recalled were as tangibly strong as the day they were first lived. What I learned: you can't necessarily summon those organic memories of loved ones gone, or even intentionally reconstruct them, but they do return at their own will, just as tangible and real as the physical life that once created them. What I already knew: I am lucky to associate my Gram with lemon frost pie.

So, yeah, I only meant to share my favorite recipe, but I guess I had more to share today. Didn't even know I had it in me. Please enjoy and share with a very special someone!

GRAM'S LEMON FROST PIE IN CHOCOLATE SHELL
(Yes, you will really use the mixing bowl 4 separate times. And in case you're wondering, it does take a while to whip the cream and egg parts.)

2 T. unsweetened cocoa
2 T. granulated sugar
2 c. heavy cream
1 T. lemon zest
1/2 c. fresh lemon juice
3 eggs, separated
2/3 c. granulated sugar
1 tsp. lemon zest
1/2 c. shaved German sweet chocolate

Combine cocoa and 2 T. sugar. Whip 1 c. heavy cream, fold into cocoa mixture. Add 1 T. lemon zest. Spread evenly in 9" or 10" pie pan (you might end up with some extra filling at the end with the smaller pan). Chill in freezer until firm. Beat egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add 2/3 c. sugar and beat until glossy. Beat yolks until thick and lemon-colored and fold into whites. Whip remaining 1 c. heavy cream. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Fold cream into egg mixture and turn into frozen chocolate shell. Garnish with shaved chocolate (or garnish individual slices before serving if there is no room left in the pan). Freeze until firm. Set out at room temperature for a few minutes for easier slicing and serving.

happy 4th of july!

2010-07-01T11:08:00.003-04:00

Mister Mouse is riding by to wish you a happy Fourth of July! Happy stars-stripes-sparklers-fireworks-picnics-parades-celebrate-our-independence day!

pajama story-time at the library!

2010-06-18T11:10:00.003-04:00

Hey, Clevelanders (especially east-siders)! I am doing a special pajama story-time at the Orange branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library on Weds., June 30 at 7:00pm. Geared towards ages 2-5, little ones can wear their jammies, bring a blanket and pillow and snuggle in while I read some of my books, including Sweet Dreams Lullaby. We'll end with this bunny puppet craft. Books will be available for purchase and autograph at the end of the program (cash or check only, please). This is a free event, but registration is required, so click here to sign up or get more info. Please pass along to anyone that might be interested. Thanks!

wvxu radio interview link

2010-05-21T15:10:00.002-04:00

Click here for the wvxu radio interview about Sweet Dreams Lullaby from last week's Around Cincinnati.

around cincinnati radio interview

2010-05-13T11:23:00.003-04:00

A few months ago when I was in southern Ohio for a few book signings, I did a taped interview about my book Sweet Dreams Lullaby with Barbara Gray for Cincinnati radio station WVXU, the local NPR affiliate. I had never done radio before, so I was a little nervous, but I actually loved it and hope I get the opportunity to do it again sometime...being in the studio was a lot more comfortable than I expected. The interview is airing this Sunday evening at 7:00 pm as part of their "Around Cincinnati" arts program. Click here for this week's program line-up, where there is also a special link to order the book from Amazon and have a portion of the proceeds benefit WVXU. If you're not local to Cincinnati, you can get a live stream here, get the podcast here, or I will also post a link to the audio file next week.

long time no blog

2010-05-11T14:40:00.003-04:00

I've been busy working away on some new projects. I just finished up the art for a game by Peaceable Kingdom Press—I've been doing a lot of work for PK Press over the past couple of years and I really love collaborating with them. They are so good to their freelance artists and have recently added an "artist gallery" on their website...check it out! Anyways, it just so happens I am headed out to San Francisco, Berkeley and Sonoma/Napa in a few days, and since PK Press is located in Berkeley, I am going to have the opportunity to meet some of the designers and art directors that I've been working with over there. It will be nice to finally put faces with names and chat with everyone in person.

Here are a few past projects I've done for PK Press...it's not the best product photo, but it's the best I can do with my iphone for now.

I also wanted to share a few new reviews of Sweet Dreams Lullaby that I stumbled across online today. Both reviews are by We Heart Books, who have done some nice features of my books in the past. If you're not familiar with their blog, and you "heart" books too, you should really check it out! The first review is here, right on the We Heart Books blog. The second review is here, on Mini Gaga, a blog for "beautiful things for baby."

thanks pbj's

2010-03-17T12:12:00.005-04:00

For anyone that loves children's books, you'll have to add the "Picture Book Junkies Blog" to your reference list. Basically, it's five different perspectives all in one blog—five talented illustrators, who call themselves the "PBJ's", take turns posting entries about kids' books, art, and other related topics. They each pick a book of the month to highlight on their sidebar, and I am happy to say that Roz's pick was Sweet Dreams Lullaby. Click here to read the interview. Hey PBJ's, thanks so much for the shout-out!

indie next list

2010-03-02T15:52:00.005-05:00

I just got some exciting news from my editor at Random House! I am happy to announce that Sweet Dreams Lullaby has been selected for inclusion on the Spring 2010 Children's Indie Next List (Note: if you click on this link, you have to then click on the category "Ages 4 to 8", and then use the right arrow to scroll and find my book).

From my editor: The Indie Next List is drawn from bookseller recommendations of favorite “handsells.” Independent booksellers choose what they believe is “the next big thing, the next great read, the next bestseller, or the next undiscovered gem.”

Nothing like getting some good news to give ya a little boost when you're in the middle of writing the next book. Thanks Indie Next List!

storytime fun

2010-03-01T13:46:00.009-05:00

I just wrapped up a round of storytimes and book signings for Sweet Dreams Lullaby. It's so fun to finally be able to share a new book, after waiting about a year for it to be published. And kids always surprise me by what they notice or point out or respond to. I learn just as much as kids do from the experience–interacting with kids, parents and children's book lovers is really one of the the most rewarding parts of what I do.

Here are some highlights of some past events...

Cleveland event at Joseph-Beth on Feb. 20, 2010:

poster in the window

signin'

we made bunny puppets for the craft

my niece with her bunny puppet

Cincinnati event at Joseph-Beth on Feb. 26, 2010:

can you tell I ADORE the book store staff!

me and my buddy Gavin

Dayton event at Books & Co. on Feb. 27, 2010:

snugglin' at storytime!

touchin' Have You Ever Tickled a Tiger?

my professor and mentor from UD came with her son

one of my best gal pals, her 2 kids, and a friend's 2 kids

Buckeye Book Fair in Wooster on Nov. 7, 2009:

my booth

ha-ha...gotta love a photo opp with Flat Stanley himself!

kids could make tiger masks at my booth

mystery tiger #1

mystery tiger #2

mystery tiger #3

my long-lost friend from elementary school came with her family! (we hadn't seen each other in 15 years)

they draw and cook

2010-02-15T19:07:00.003-05:00

A few months ago my artist pal Salli had an idea for a fun project where a group of artist-types would illustrate a recipe of their choice and then we'd publish the collection in some way. Salli and her brother Nate, whose design studio is called Studio SSS, decided to start a new blog and post our recipes there. It's called theydrawandcook.com. My recipe is above. I just made it again last night and have kind of been perfecting it a bit...I prefer using unsalted butter and salting it myself. And if you are local to the Cleveland area, I like Ohio City Pasta ravioli (available at the West Side Market) the best...I actually use a mix of their butternut squash ravioli and their pumpkin mascarpone ravioli. It is super yummy!

Check out the other artists' recipes too! And there will be more popping up so check back often. If you are so inclined, you can even knock out your own illustrated recipe and ask them to post it. Info is on the site. Bon appetit!

Powell's Books Q & A

2010-01-29T00:25:00.004-05:00

Early in December, Powell's Books asked me to do an author Q & A for their website. I was super excited because I LOVE Powell's. Just in case you might not know (which I didn't until a few years ago), Powell's City of Books, in Portland Oregon, is the largest new and used bookstore in the world, and it's independently owned too. Let's just say this: in my one short visit to explore Portland, I went to the big, downtown Powell's bookstore (which takes up an entire city block) 3 times. Yep, it is THAT cool.

It was a fun Q & A because I actually got to pick from a big list of questions. Anyway, click here for the Q & A.

today's the day!

2010-01-26T13:34:00.006-05:00

My newest book, Sweet Dreams Lullaby, is here, officially out today! For anyone in the Ohio area, I would love it if you came to one of my book signings in Cleveland, Cincinnati, or Dayton (see the info attached or at the left). It's always nice to see some familiar faces and meet some newcomers as well!

What a dream come true for me (please excuse the pun). This is the first picture book (32 pages) that I've written–I can't believe this time last year I was still working away on it, and now it's a REAL book. This one is dedicated to my little (and only) brother Mike, who is in his first year of grad school at Berkeley right now...I'm so proud of him for following his dreams since I know it has been hard for him to be so far away from home. Thank you to everyone that has helped me along the way–Random House (my publisher), Heidi (my editor), Tracy (my art director), Emily (my publicity guru), Lori (my agent), Mom (my coach), ALL of my family and friends (my cheerleaders), and especially Jeff (my heart).

Well, now that it sounds like I have given my acceptance speech at the Academy Awards, I thought it might be fun to share some of my process:

First comes the manuscript. I write, and re-write, and work with my editor until we are all happy and the story and the mood is "just right." Sometimes, I have a clear vision for the image before I have the words in my head. In that case, I draw some quick sketches first, and then write to that image. I work back and forth with words and images until I'm happy with the balance. It's a messy, jumbled process but eventually things start to come together, like pieces of a puzzle.

Once the manuscript is approved, I officially move on to the sketches (here's me working at the dining room table before we had our new office). I always start with thumbnail sketches, which are really small, quick doodles that help me play around with composition, poses, perspective, settings, text placement, etc. I keep doing thumbnails until I come up with one or two options for each spread that I really like. This is also where the character starts to come to life.

This is a thumbnail sketch for a spread about fireflies like nature's night-lights.

During the sketch phase, it's not just thinking about how each sketch works on its own, but also the sequence of how they all work together to tell a story. Hanging sketches on a wall helps me see the flow of the book better.

This is the final sketch for the firefly scene. You can see that I made some changes from the original thumbnail above, but the basic idea is still there. When all the sketches are approved by the editor and art director, it's time to move on to the final art. I scan in all my sketches and compose my final art on the computer. Using my sketch as a guide, and working with lots of textures I paint by hand and later scan, I slowly layer up all the colors, shapes and textures into a "digital collage" (at least that's what I call it). This way, I am able to move things around, adjust colors and make changes. And after a lot of noodling, the art comes to life. Color mood was especially important with this lullaby book, since it starts in early evening and ends later at night. I needed to think about how the sky colors would slowly transition as the sun set and the moon rose.

So, here's the final piece for the firefly scene, which reads:
dream of tiptoes through the grass
and fireflies that blink and flash,
catching night-lights floating by–
then sending them into the sky.

And one more finished piece:
dream of eggs wrapped in a nest
where mama bird has come to rest.
imagine blossoms, soft as snow,
that blanket flower beds below.

To see more, you'll have to buy the book:) Happy reading!

sweet book reviews

2009-12-15T10:47:00.004-05:00

Two happy reviews for my upcoming picture book, Sweet Dreams Lullaby, have officially come out today. You have to have a subscription to access the reviews online, but here they are below. Hope you don't mind me sharing...it's kind of a big moment for me. I'm starting to get really excited about the book coming out at the end of January. It feels REAL now.

December 15, 2009 issue of Booklist (circ: 20,000):

SWEET DREAMS LULLABY
Snyder, Betsy (Author) , Snyder, Betsy (Illustrator)
Jan 2010. 32 p. Random, hardcover, $15.99. (9780375858529).

The author-illustrator of Haiku Baby (2008) offers a soothing bedtime story with just the right amount of sweetness. As a little bunny gets tucked into his bed, he dreams of his pastoral world outside as it slows down and readies for night. Dandelions, robin eggs, flower blossoms, frogs, caterpillars, and more all prepare for the night. “Dream of comforts all around, / in soothing colors, shapes, and sounds. / Set your cares and wishes free / to ride the dandelion breeze.” With their gentle cadence, Snyder’s short rhyming phrases add to the cuddly effect. The charming collage artwork, with images of snuggling squirrels and daddy frogs singing little ones to sleep, will bring a smile. Particularly effective are the backgrounds as the colors of the sky—and the pages—go from sunny yellow to pinks and oranges, then deep purples and blues, as the sun finally sets and the moon rises. A worthy and welcome addition to the canon of cozy bedtime stories.

— Rebecca Wojahn

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

December 15th issue of Kirkus Reviews (circ: 1,718):

Snyder, Betsy
SWEET DREAMS LULLABY
Illus. by the author

In The Runaway Bunny, Margaret Wise Brown’s mother bunny famously tells her little one to “have a carrot” when he finally settles in for the night. The bunny in Snyder’s bedtime book already has a carrot securely tucked in his pajama pocket in the cover and title-page illustrations. Sustenance secured, he doesn’t tell his mother he will run away; instead, he acquiesces to having her tuck him into bed on the first page and then imagines himself in the dreamscapes she describes to lull him to sleep. The rhyming text describes the little bunny in different outdoor scenes where fireflies are cast as nightlights, a daddy frog “sings low and deep, / lulling all the pond to sleep” and stars whisper “good night.” Throughout the pictures, the pocketed carrot is often replaced by other objects from the text, though sometimes the bunny’s pocket is disappointingly empty. Digitally produced art with collage elements employs a rich, soothing palette befitting the gentle cadence of the text. A lovely addition to bedtime-book collections. (Picture book. 2-5)

gobble, gobble!

2009-11-24T17:34:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post to say happy Thanksgiving!

Here's some art I did this year for Clubhouse Jr. magazine...

And here are the "hand turkeys" that my niece Ava and I did together last year!

charter for compassion

2009-11-13T13:42:00.004-05:00

This site just launched today...and I love the mission and the message of compassion. Compassion is such a simple principle, and probably the most important value you can teach to a child (or adult for that matter). Sometimes it's the littlest acts of compassion that make the biggest difference, don't you think? It's easy to forget the power we have to influence and helps others.

If anything, Charter for Compassion is a good opportunity for all of us to heighten our awareness, reaffirm what's important to us and how we want to live our lives, and choose the legacy we'd like to leave behind. I lost my dear grandmother on Sunday, so this week I've been giving a lot of thought to what I'd like to do to honor her. I feel my grandmother left behind a wonderful, rich legacy, and I can only hope to live a life that would make her proud. I don't think she realized how many lives she touched and were made better by her. I was lucky enough to be blessed by her love and compassion, and now I hope to pass it on. Love ya, Gram.

me, Gram, and Mom celebrating Gram's 86th birthday last June

happy boo day!!!

2009-10-30T10:46:00.004-04:00

It's almost the witching hour...here are some Halloween pieces I did when I worked at American Greetings:

Halloween is truly one of my favorite holidays. I guess I've always loved the creativity of making costumes and decorating. My mom made my costumes every year and it was always lots of fun to have something unique and handmade, that couldn't be bought in the store. Here's me as a witch...I think I was about 4 or 5 years old:

And here's a drawing I did that same year:

I won't get to celebrate too much this year–no big parties to go to–but I'm hoping to host a Halloween party one of these years so I'll just have to make up for it then! Hope y'all have a happy, happy Halloween!

fall catch up

2009-10-14T17:23:00.006-04:00

It's been a while. I have a few new fun things to share...

First...

I am happy to announce that my new book Don't Throw That Away! (written by Lara Bergen) just officially came out yesterday. This is part of Simon & Schuster's Little Green Books imprint, so it is 100% recycled material and is all about recycling and reusing in creative ways. It's a simple message, but the books has some fun interactive flaps that keep little ones entertained.

Second...

I just got samples today of the Haiku Baby boxed note card set I did with Papyrus. It contains 20 cards and envelopes, and features 4 different images from the book (sun, rain, moon, flower). You can buy it online here (click on "additional views" to see all the images). Or hopefully the note card set is in stores too, but I'm not sure about that (so let me know if you see it out there). So you know what to look for: the box is just the turtle image on the front, and all the text info is along the sides of the box.

Third...

If you are in the Ohio area, come visit me at the Buckeye Book Fair in Wooster on November 7. I will be signing 4 books (Haiku Baby, Have You Ever Tickled a Tiger?, Don't Throw That Away!, and Peanut Butter and Jellyfishes: A Very Silly Alphabet Book). I will also have a tiger mask craft for kids to make and wear. You can get the full scoop here. I participated last year and it was a lot of fun. It's a great place to find Christmas gifts for book-lovin' family and friends...and you can get all the books autographed too. But come early, because books do sell-out (I was sold out of books by 1:30-2:00 last year).

Fourth...

Stay tuned for some super-cool jellyfish pics from my trip to the Baltimore aquarium with one of my BFFs (and this is just a dinky one from my i-phone). Till my next post, I hope to be relaxin' and floatin' like a jellyfish on my soon-to-come beach vacation...do sharks like jellyfish or aspiring jellyfish? Hope not;)

happy anniversary, happy fall

2009-09-21T15:42:00.013-04:00

Today it has been two years since Jeff and I said "I do!" Last Sunday night we celebrated our anniversary with a plated landscape dinner with wine pairings at Muddy Fork Farm in Wooster. The event was organized and catered by chef Ben Bebenroth and his company Spice of Life Catering Co., who also catered our wedding. Not only do we love Ben's talent for food, but we also love his creativity, vision and whole philosophy of "regional, seasonal and sustainable ingredients." Plus, all of his staff is so darn nice! Much of what we ate came fresh from this certified organic farm...I literally looked out into the field while we were eating one course and saw Ben foraging for more ingredients for an upcoming dish. How cool is that?! And, we got to talk to the farmers and hear their story, and they even ate with us. So, this was the perfect way to remember our wedding day, celebrate the summer bounty, and welcome in fall all at the same time.

Jeff and his dream chickens (he's always wanted a few chickens)

Our new chicken-friend.

Sipping on some sparking wine and sampling ripe raspberries off the bush...does it get any better?

Asparagus field that has gone to seed.

Tiny eggplant. Love that purple!

Diggin' for sweet potatoes.

Greenhouse...we ended up eating in one of these greenhouses since it did start to rain. But the pitter-patter of the raindrops on the plastic roof was so comforting and cozy.

This is originally where the tables were situated.

The tablescape was gorgeous! I have to say I really love the midwest in late summer and fall.

Wooden votive holders made from old barrels, gourds, squash, pumpkins, home-grown flowers, and drinking water from mason jars.

And wine pairings for each course. Cheers...may we have many, many more anniversaries and reasons to celebrate!

good time story time!

2009-07-27T11:05:00.004-04:00

My story time and signing for Have You Ever Tickled a Tiger? at Joseph-Beth in Cleveland went great on Saturday! When we were walking in, my husband pointed out the giant poster in the front window (which just seems funny to me, because it's ME). Anyway, the kids really participated and responded well, and I feel like it was the best turn-out yet. We had lots of fun learning about what it's like to touch interesting and unusual animals, reading books, and making tiger masks. Having family and good friends there for me, meeting new people, and sharing my books–it was just one of those days that fills you up inside. The mystery girl below is my niece...isn't she scary?!

I am finally getting more comfortable letting go and going with the flow of these "appearances." I am honestly not the most comfortable speaking in public, though I do really enjoy it once I am in the moment doing it. In the past, I tried to be really prepared and have an "agenda", but I've realized that each signing goes really different, just depending on the age of the kids, their personalities and the general vibe that day. It is much different and less predictable than speaking to adults, but this is also what makes it so fun.

So this time, other than getting together all the necessary materials and putting together a rough outline, I decided to not overly prepare or think about it too much. I got a little panicky the night before, when I thought, "What am I doing? I am NOT prepared!" But I shook it off pretty well. I am slowly learning to accept these feelings of anxiety and anticipation. Instead of trying to push those feeling down and ignore them, I now just let myself feel those things fully. And the panicky nervousness seems to pass much more quickly than when I try to fight it. I recognize that the nerves are just part of the process for me–feeling nervous is really not THAT bad of a thing, is it?

I am looking forward to another story time/signing at the Cincinnati Joseph-Beth this Friday morning. More close friends, kids and good times, I'm sure!

you're invited...

2009-07-10T19:19:00.004-04:00

If you're in the Cleveland or Cincinnati areas, I'd love it if you'd come to one of my storytimes and book signings at Joseph-Beth. Click here for the scoop. And bring the cubs if you got 'em.

garden gifts

2009-07-06T12:47:00.004-04:00

This year, Jeff and I decided to ease into gardening and planted some veggies and herbs in half of our neighbors' garden. This photo was from a few weeks ago, so things have already grown quite a bit more since then. We got a late start planting, and the deer already ate the tops off all our tomato plants before we could even get them planted, so we'll see how things go. I think most of the tomatoes are bouncing back. It already makes me want to plant lots more goodies next year. Once you get going, you just want to grow EVERYTHING yourself, right? Maybe some day.

And going along with the garden theme, I thought I'd post this gift card I did for Target last year. I just discovered it up on the Target website, so I thought I'd share. I had fun with this one.

check out my new diggs

2009-07-03T16:18:00.003-04:00

Just a few pics of the new studio. These pics are of my room...Jeff has his own room now, and we have 3 other rooms for storage and clutter control. I love it...kind of like a mini apartment. And it's so nice to have lots of windows and feel connected to the world when I'm working. I do not miss our bat cave office one bit.

I painted my room (very) blue...I thought it was going to feel a little more like an antique blue, but at least it's not dull (even if I do feel like I am underwater in a swimming pool). I've decided to like the color. This is the first whole room I've ever painted...Jeff says I am a master taper, which I guess really means, "You will be doing the taping from now on, Bets." That's okay, I don't mind, because he has to paint everything up high for me. So it seems like a fair trade.

I think it is so funny that right outside my big front window, centered perfectly, it says, "Y-O-G-A." (there is a yoga studio directly across the street). Do I need any more signs to get my butt over to yoga class??? Geez.

I still have a lot I want to do to "betsify" the space, like add curtains, get a funky rug, stuff like that. But it's a good start. And now it's time to forget about decorating for a while and get back to work. Happy "Independence" Day!

my new favorite bag

2009-06-26T10:18:00.005-04:00

I have a "thing" for bags and jackets, and I am loving my new bag from Etsy! What a surprise, I've picked out another thing with a bird on it. It just came in the mail yesterday...from Istanbul, Turkey, made by Sinem Inugur. It's nicely made and I really like the splash of orange inside, perfect for a summer day. Do you "need" a new bag too? I bet you do. Here is the link to Sinem's Etsy shop. Lots of fun bags to choose from.

Isn't Etsy such a cool thing? An international online consignment shop...gotta love it.

parent's choice book review

2009-06-23T14:26:00.003-04:00

Hey all. Click here to read a nice review and article about board books by Parents' Choice. I kind of can't believe Have You Ever Tickled a Tiger? puts me in the company of Margaret Wise Brown and Eric Carle in this piece, but I'm certainly happy to be there!

haiku by two interview

2009-06-18T16:54:00.004-04:00

Alison at haikubytwo.com recently reviewed Haiku Baby, and also contacted me for an interview. How fun, my first interview! And don't you love the bird art on their web banner...by Alison herself! Alison and her friend Kelly co-write and manage this haiku-centered website together. I love hearing about "friend projects" like this.

So, if you're procrastinating on whatever it is you really SHOULD be doing (like I am), click here to check out the interview (below is just a quick screen-grab for eye candy).

don't look back!

2009-06-11T22:33:00.006-04:00

Happy, happy birthday to my dearest "Gram." She's 86 today, and we just celebrated at her place with dinner and this cake. In a nutshell, here is why I think my Gram is the best...

I've always looked up to her, for so many reasons. I'm in awe of her crossword puzzle, Scrabble and card-playing skills...she has the most extensive vocabulary of anyone I've known, yet she's not snooty about it. She loves learning, and has been a long-time volunteer for PEO, an organization that promotes education for women (they gave me a scholarship and a loan too, thank you very much!) Though Gram's very modest about her artistic skills, she's got a creative spirit for sure, and has a lot to do with why I do what I do today. When I was a kid, we made paperdolls, watched birds, played dress-up, went to museums and the theater (saw Robert Goulet in South Pacific!), and had many, many sleepovers. So, I still think my Gram is one of the super-coolest ladies in the whole wide world. I got so lucky to get her in the grandma lottery...I really hit the jackpot.

When I was little and it was time for good-bye, my Gram would always turn her back to me, look over her shoulder and say, "Don't look back!" I think that's a good philosophy in life, and it's good to be reminded of that today.

So, just wanted to give a cyber shout-out to my Gram on her birthday. She's not really into fancy, newfangled technology, so she won't see this. But that's okay cuz she already knows how much I adore her. xoxo Gram!

This is Gram, my grandfather (who I never got to meet), my mom (left), and my uncle (right). My mom was born in Hawaii when my grandfather was stationed there...he was a military doctor.

Here's me playing dress-up at Gram's house...this was my mom's wedding dress.

And here's me as a bride again, officially. Gram's in the middle and my mom's on the right. Have I ever mentioned how awesome my wedding photographer/friend Donna Von Bruening is ??? She gave Jeff and me the gift of her photography for our wedding (as if her gift of friendship is not enough). She shot Jeff's sister's wedding, and she's shooting Jeff's brother's wedding in October (can't wait!).

And my Gram gave me this necklace to wear on my wedding day. It was more perfect than anything I could have picked out, and meant so much more.

And here we are today, 3 generations.

have you ever tickled a tiger?

2009-05-26T10:51:00.009-04:00

Yippee! Today's the official publish date for my new book with Random House, Have You Ever Tickled a Tiger? It's a baby/toddler touch-and-feel book where you can poke a penguin's soft tummy, kiss a walrus's tickly whiskers and scratch an armadillo's scaley back.

Also, I found out a few weeks ago that the book will also be in WalMart stores, which my editor explained is a good thing because that means 900 stores with a much smaller selection of books than your big national book store chains. So, the book will have a chance to be in a more prominent spot for a larger audience. And good book sales mean more new books coming from me, so fingers crossed everyone!

Also, this book is dedicated to my adorable, very ticklish 2-year-old niece Ava and to my favorite furry pet-friends. This is Ava's drawing using Photoshop and a drawing tablet, which she is surprisingly good at...when I asked her what she was drawing, she said, "A dinosaur!"

lots of "firsts"

2009-04-03T10:50:00.015-04:00

Well, here it is! My new picture book for Random House that I have been working on since last summer, and the big reason I have been MIA. It has been so long since my last post that I don't even know where to start. How about a recap?

Since my last post, I have:
•finished the picture book (due out January 2010)
•received my first-ever royalty check (yippee!)
•done a storytime at Lorain County Public Library where we made a jellyfish craft (my first paid event)
•created and given 3 45-minute slide presentations at the College of Wooster about "my story" (my first time using KeyNote and first author-related presentations to college students and adults...I LOVED it!)
•had my first official "fan" come to a book signing (she seemed like someone I had known all my life and actually brought a picture of her little girl holding Haiku Baby...so cute and a moment I will always hold dear)
•working hard to pull some work together for Surtex and the Licensing Shows (for my first appearance there at my agent's booth)

With all of these "firsts", I guess it's no wonder I have been overwhelmed with just living life lately! But, finishing a long project like a picture book always feels so good. I've been reflecting on my processes and the path I've taken to get to where I am, especially since I've started giving presentations about my work. It's been interesting to look back, but in a way it's been cleansing and has helped me find my way again. And I've been locked up in my bat-cave studio for so long finishing this book that it's felt so good to wake up in time for spring and get that balance of human interaction back again. And it's been especially rewarding to interact with not only the kids that my books are meant for, but also to start speaking to college students, educators and
the adult public–that is such a mutually beneficial experience that I LOVED more that I could have imagined.

Now, a little about my picture book I just finished. Thirty-two pages is SO much longer than twelve, and it's really been the project I've been focusing on since August. It's truly been a labor of love for me, and it has taught me that it doesn't always feel easy and graceful to grow. There are days when ideas and words and drawings flow, and the "making" moment feels peaceful and right. But there are also days when it is a struggle to be creative, when art feels hard and doesn't "click" and the process feels clunky and scary and I don't know "how." I think this is the reality of making books (or making anything creative) that artists and authors sometimes don't feel okay to talk about, because we know we are so lucky for the opportunity and don't want to sound ungrateful (because we're not!). But as I get older and know myself better and connect with a larger network of artists that also do what I do, I have learned that these feelings, good and bad, are all part of it–the growing pains we need to go through to truly accomplish something and share a part of ourselves. And when I have the self-doubting moments when I wonder how I will make it through the 32 pages and create something unique that I can be proud of, that my publisher is happy with, and that childen and parents will enjoy, I find my strength in the people around me that believe in me. I think some projects are ones that feel more effortless, where I have a clear vision and am able to stay pretty true to that through the course of the project. But other projects are ones that evolve, where one idea leads to the next, and I arrive at a very different place that where I began. This new book is the latter. The book has altered course a lot from the original concept, which some might think would be a disappointment, but I think letting go is important so that an idea can grow into what it is supposed to be. If we hold on too tightly and treat ever itty-bitty idea so preciously, we run the risk of suffocating it. Some ideas need room to breathe and grow. I feel really fortunate to be working with a great editor and art director team at Random House–they have had so much confidence in me from the beginning and have really helped pull things out of me that I didn't even know were there. Heidi my editor, sorry this paragraph is so long...you are probably cringing and dying to edit it!

Anyways, thanks to all of you–my husband, family, friends, and work buddies–who have stood by me, encouraged me, listened to me, inspired me, taught me, believed in me, waited for me. I truly could not do this without you and please know that you are all part of my story.

Sorry this one is so sappy but I needed to get that out! Hopefully I will have some more time to blog and post goodies again soon...I'd like to be better about that. Happy Friday!

lucky me

2009-03-18T11:01:00.005-04:00

Good news! The luck 'o the Irish must have been with me, because yesterday I found out from my editor at Random House that our book Haiku Baby has been named one of the CCBC Choices 2009, the Cooperative Children's Book Center's annual best-of-the-year list. If you want to find out more about the CCBC, click here. I'm so happy my little baby book is getting a BIG shout-out...thanks CCBC!

bein' green

2009-03-17T10:28:00.003-04:00

I married a McCormack, so you can understand why my St. Patrick's Days have become much more festive and fun. I just thought I'd share a few pieces of St. Patrick's Day art that I did when I worked at American Greetings. Hope you all enjoy being extra green today!

V.G.B.

2009-03-07T09:14:00.009-05:00

Jeff and I lost our dear Hank-dog yesterday. He was such a part of our family, and will be missed, but he had 15 long years to sniff the air, stick his nose in the snow and chase squirrels so I think it was a good life for him.

We always called Hank our V.G.B. (very good boy). And he was. Hank went on our first date with us in the park, and even kissed me first. He approved. And so did I, despite his bad breath. We always joke that I would have never been dumb enough to go on a first date hike in the woods without the lure of a friendly dog coming along...who knows, Jeff could have been a psycho-killer but it was obvious from the beginning that Hank was not. What can I say? I am a sucker for dogs, and men with dogs, I guess.

Here's a little photo tribute to our good ole Hank-dog...

show-and-tell

2009-02-04T13:37:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was a fun day because 2 boxes of samples arrived (which is rare, so it's crazy to get 2 boxes in one day!). It's always nice to get those surprise packages in the mail and see your work in print. Sometimes you don't even know the product is on the market until your samples arrive.

I have a new pop-up book available now called Dinosaur Days (by Matt Mitter, Reader's Digest Children's Publishing). For some reason, it often doesn't come up if you just type in my name, but you can find the book online here or here. This book is unique in that the pop-up and dimensional elements are made from printed foam pieces.

In addition to my Have You Ever Tickled a Tiger? book coming out at the end of May (Random House), I also have a book called Don't Throw That Away! (by Lara Bergen) coming out in September. It's part of a new imprint called Little Green Books, which is Simon & Schuster's eco-friendly approach to books that I am so excited to be a part of (more info here and here and here). Not only are the materials eco-friendly but the themes are too. I hope to do more projects like this because I think they send a good message to kids and consumers and I like the challenge of creating using recycled paper stocks and other materials. I think it's really fun to just embrace the materials' intrinsic qualities and make the best of them.

AND...here are a few cards that I did for Peaceable Kingdom Press. It's been a good company to start working with and there may be a few more projects to come with them.

So, those are the newest things I can share at the moment. Hope you've enjoyed the show-and-tell!

pleasantly puzzled

2009-01-20T18:34:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to share a new block puzzle I did for Galison/Mudpuppy Press, available this spring. I just found it on their store online, so it must be okay to share now. I love their line of children's products, and I'm so happy to be part of it! Plus, I'd never done art for a puzzle before, and this is like 6 puzzles in one, so I had a lot of fun on the art for this project.

west coast show-and-tell: oregon

2008-12-11T13:56:00.033-05:00

Yes, I am very behind on posting...sorry. At last, here are my photos from the second part of our west coast trip this past fall. First time to Oregon, and I have to say it was inspiring, rejuvanating, and breathtaking.

PORTLAND

We stayed at the new Ace Hotel downtown and loved it!

Here's the tiny little corner bar called Ringlers Annex where we watched the presidential debates, impromptu (thank goodness those are over, huh?) But it was so refreshing to see so many young people gathered in neighborhood spots, so openly interested in politics. And so respectful of each other.

I just loved this sidewalk sign outside a restaurant. I didn't eat here, but the food in general was sooooooo good in Portland.

Lots of public art all over the city. These animal sculptures were really fun.

More animal sculptures.

The founding fathers of the city wanted lots of public drinking fountains. And Portlanders are pretty proud of their water quality. Jeff thought he should check it out for himself.

I loved these church windows.

Colored glass in stripes!

Believe it or not, this is the the world's smallest park.

Powell's bookstore (the largest independent owned used and new bookstore in the world!) just happened to be just a block or two from our hotel. I think we went there at least 3 times.

And I found Haiku Baby on the shelf there (it's fun to find your book in new cities).

The little neighborhoods in Portland had so much character. Look how cute these potted plants are, all lined up for people-watching!

PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN

So many layers of green, on green, on green.

I loved the crane sculptures–they felt so at home. Hey, I'd like to live here too, and I'm not even a crane.

I think water features are some of my favorite things about a Japanese garden. I am definitely a "water person."

This was a little window in a maze-like boardwalk through Japanese irises and a koi pond. Definitely one of my favorite spots in this garden.

Awh, a zen garden. Or shall I say "Om?"

The clincher was turning a corner and getting our first full view of Mt. Hood at the end of the gardens. Seeing the city in front of the mountain really encapsulates the symbiotic relationship that Portland has with its natural surroundings.

INTERNATIONAL ROSE TEST GARDEN

Though Jeff has bought me beautiful flowers more than once, he is not a "flowery" kind of guy. In fact, he claims he can't smell roses. But he could smell these roses! We stumbled across this rose garden after the Japanese garden, while we were waiting to catch the bus home.

We had no idea! It's levels upon more levels FULL of roses. In every color and size you can imagine. I was in heaven.

PACIFIC COAST TRAIL

While we were staying in Portland, we took a half-day hike on the PCT.

And finally saw our lush, mossy rainforest!

And our goal? This (almost) secluded waterfall. Well worth the hike, don't you think?

GOODBYE PORTLAND, HELLO OCEAN

Jeff and I were on our way to the coast, and on the highway we passed a pumpkin farm sign that said "Roloff Family Farm". Suddenly it clicked for me. I don't have a great memory, but for some reason I remembered that this is the family farm from the reality show Little People Big World. We turned around and went to the farm, but unfortunately, as you can see by this sign, it's not open on Monday. So close!

Here's a little beach we stopped off at on one of our coastal drives. What great tree trunk shapes!

We were so lucky to have mostly sunny says in Oregon. But the last few days of our trip were more typical for this area–cloudy, gray, misty. It didn't get us down though–this kind of weather creates such wonderful atmosphere and colors.

I found myself fascinated by these little washed-up vignettes. I'm so inspired by the color palettes that Mother Nature creates, and these were like her tiny masterpieces.

A mini water-filled volcano, at least that's what Jeff and I like to call them. We found one in Kauai too.

Gotta leave a beach totem.

CANNON BEACH (where we stayed)

So, I had to save the best for last. This is the famous Haystack Rock, and I'm pretty sure it's the same rock the ship sails out from behind at the end of Goonies.

When the tide is in, you can't get to the rock at all because it's surrounded by water. But when the tide is out, you can get up really close and see some pretty cool things stuck to the rocks...

...like starfish in lots of colors!

And donut-shaped sea anenome (or something like that, I am not an expert).

I loooooooove sea life, so this was an incredible spot to explore.

So, purple starfish...

...mossy green rocks...

...birds playing in cloud reflections...

...mountains peeking through the mist...

...a beach recreation of Stonehenge...

...and spectacular sunrises and sunsets–

What more could you ask for in one spot on the globe?

small

2008-11-24T11:17:00.005-05:00

Hi all. I am very busy sketching for my next picture book (the first one written by yours truly!) and still trying to salvage a few relaxing days off for the holiday. But I just wanted to do a quick post about this great online magazine called Small, that as they describe it, "is a magazine of creative work on a small scale and for the small sized."

I actually stumbled across the magazine in this weheartbooks blog entry. Apparently, there is a 2-spread article about the we heart books blog and online store in the new issue winter issue of Small...and after taking a closer look at the article, I realized Haiku Baby is one of the 5 books reviewed (see the second spread). The article also touches on how authors and illustrators are embracing the world of the blog as a way of sharing their art.

So, that was pretty fun to discover an inspiring and new-to-me children's trend magazine and well as find my book in it! And I am so thankful for these small successes and discoveries that remind me why I do what I do. Now I gotta go do what I do and sketch away!

have you ever...?

2008-11-20T10:18:00.003-05:00

Saw this on another artist's blog: http://redfishcircle.blogspot.com/
Just cut and paste and bold the things you have done...

Have you ever...?
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community.
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelos David
41. Sung karoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a lawsuit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

I might also add:
•Taught yourself how to play an instrument
•Had a penpal you never met in person
•Seen a sea turtle
•Jumped off of a cliff into the sea
•Seen a tornado
•Been in an earthquake
•Seen a coyote in your backyard
•worked as a waitress/waiter
•taken your own bag(s) to the grocery store
•been ice skating on a pond
•studied abroad

we heart books

2008-11-12T09:26:00.006-05:00

Have you heard of weheartbooks.com? It's a lovely little blog written by two moms in Australia that are super-passionate about kids' books. They set the site up to help people choose books for kids.

Anyway, I discovered their blog about a month ago–well, really, they discovered me. Lou (one of the moms) contacted me about featuring Haiku Baby in a new boutique bookstore that she and her blog partner were launching online. So, I just checked their blog yesterday, and their new store is now up and running–and lookie what's on their first homepage! So sweet of them to put my book front and center:)

And how's this for serendipity (one of my favorite words, by the way)? I was about to blog about this great children's book called Le Tour du Monde de Mouk by Marc Boutavant, who's been one of my most favorite illustrators for a few years now. His work kind of reminds me of a modern-day Richard Scarry. Well, I'd desperately wanted this book for a while, but couldn't track it down in the States. So, Jeff secretly found it online in Canada and gave it to me for my birthday in September. It's the coolest book, absolutely jam-packed with cute animal eye candy and even has a big page of vinyl cling stickers in the back. I LOVE it! Well, turns out that on the current homepage for the weheartbooks.com store, Haiku Baby is right next to the English version of this book, Around the World with Mouk. It's so funny that my little book has traveled around the world to Australia, and has found a spot right next to another book I'd been searching for. And such an honor to be right next to Marc Boutavant. I heart serendipity.

fall fun

2008-11-06T14:10:00.008-05:00

I'm loving fall today. I walked to work, first stopping to enjoy the crimson-painted leaves on our Japanese maple out front. On my walk, I listened to children laugh as I passed the school, crunched on leaves covering sidewalks, looked up at berries, bright against the clear blue sky. It's one of those days you cherish, knowing that it could be the last one. So, after this post, I am headed home to rake some leaves and soak up the last of fall.

Another reason I love fall...Halloween! My mom always made my Halloween costumes. Sometimes she had to get really creative when there wasn't a pattern to be found for what I was asking for. Like one year when I wanted to be "a lady riding an ostrich" (we saw it at the circus that year). I will never believe that Halloween fun is only meant for kids and has to stop when you grow up. I think my husband now really gets what Halloween means to me. Last week, he said, "Betsy, I've realized that Halloween is to you what St. Patrick's Day is to me."(he's Irish) And I said, "Exactly!"

Here is my niece Ava the Bumblebee at a Halloween party, where she is already demonstrating her creative talent. Just look at how she holds the paintbrush, without instruction!

And lastly, a recap of the Buckeye Book Fair last weekend. It went great! I had lots of fun meeting parents, grandparents, kids, teachers, librarians, authors and illustrators. It's nice to get out of my bubble and get some firsthand feedback from the people that are really buying the books. I was so busy signing and talking that the day flew by, and before I knew it, I was all sold out of both books, two hours early! So, look for me there next year!

at my table

The buttons were "prickly", so I decide to let people "fish" for them with a homemade rod made from a chopstick, string and magnet.

Buckeye Book Fair

2008-10-30T11:33:00.004-04:00

Just a quick post to let you know I was invited to participate in the Buckeye Book Fair in Wooster this Saturday, November 1. It's the biggest book fair in Ohio, and it's going to be a fun event with around 100 writers and illustrators participating.

I made button pins from Haiku Baby artwork. One is with the cover art, and the others represent each of the four seasons. The buttons will be give-aways for people that come to my table and buy a book. I am also signing copies of my other book, Peanut Butter and Jellyfishes: A Very Silly Alphabet Book.

So, if you're looking for something to do on Saturday when you're coming down from your post-Halloween sugar-high, come visit me and all of the other authors and illustrators too! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

tickled!

2008-10-21T18:00:00.004-04:00

Hello all. I know I still owe you some photos of the Oregon part of my trip, but for now, I thought I'd share a preview of my new book called Have You Ever Tickled a Tiger? And last Friday, I was "tickled" myself when I came home to a surprise advance copy of the book on my doorstep. What fun it is to finally see a new book in print! Doesn't feel so new to me since I have already moved on to the next book projects, but this reminds me that the book is still new to everyone else out there. It is full of quirky animals with 6 touchy-feely textures, including the tiger belly fur on the cover. It will be available in May 2009...I can't wait to share more of the book with you then!

west coast show-and-tell: cali

2008-10-06T16:18:00.009-04:00

I'm back from a lovely 10 day trip to the west coast. It's taking me quite a while to sort through my photos, and I'm getting antsy to share, so I've decide to break this up into a few posts. So, first are some highlights from our trip to Sonoma/Napa and San Francisco:

We LOVE the cottage where we stay every year...feels like a home away from home. This year, the peach tree was full of fruit and the owners said we could pick anything from the garden that we wanted.

This trellice full of grapes was just outside the door.

And check out this giant garden dahlia!

This is a sunrise view from our cottage deck.

And this is one of the resident horses at the cottage, who came over to say hello.

We took a great tour at the Benziger Family Winery, where they practice biodynamic farming.

Here, they are extracting all the "good stuff" from grape skins that have already been removed.

This is their wine cave, which stays at just the right temperature and eliminates the need for refrigeration.

And this is the view from Rombauer Vineyards, one of my very favorite wineries.

This was a neat little spot where we stopped to have lunch at an Indian restaurant. I have a thing for red doors, and this was a good one.

I also have a thing for colored glass panes.

I also loved these colorful prayer flags.

On our way to San Francisco, we took a trip to Muir Woods. Our trusty GPS decided to play a trick on us and tried to take us the back way into the park. It didn't work in the end, and we had to turn around and find the "real entrance" but I didn't mind getting lost in the redwoods. I felt like we had happened upon a whole secret village of houses co-existing with the redwoods–it was really amazing to see people living in such a magical forest.

At last, we did find Muir Woods, and here are just a few of our very tall tree-friends.

I love all of the shadows and highlights that the dappled sun creates in forests like this.

I noticed that each of these numbered signs on the path were carved with a different pattern.

Driving over (and under) the Golden Gate Bridge in a convertible is the best!

Mmmmm...here's what was left of our "Happy Anniversary" dessert at our favorite San Francisco restaurant, the Slanted Door.

And then we were off to Portland the next day. So, check back in a few days for Oregon highlights.

one year ago...

2008-09-21T22:22:00.006-04:00

One year ago I walked down this aisle and cheerfully said "I Do!" (my friends still tease me about practically shouting it...I think everyone expects me to be mousie at times, but I can belt it when I mean it!). Happy anniversary to my dear Jeffrey!

I feel as though we have come so far in a year, yet we are right back where we started in a way too. We are celebrating our anniversary with a trip back to Sonoma/Napa and San Francisco, right where we started off our honeymoon last year. I think this may become an annual trip for us. We love it out there for so many reasons.

Here's one reason...this is one of our horse-friends at the cottage where we stay in Sonoma. Aren't velvety horse noses one of the BEST things ever?!

And here's another reason why we love Sonoma...grapes and the earth. Everything FEELS so healthy out there, the air, the sky, the food, and yes, even the wine.

So, on September 22 of this year, Jeff and I will be walking down THIS aisle. And we can't wait to share it with our sister-in-law and brother-in-law, who are joining us on our trip this year. A first year anniversary AND 30th birthday celebration all in one trip, actually all in one DAY. Cheers!

color palette snapshots

2008-08-28T13:04:00.005-04:00

I am no great photographer, and don't think I ever will be...I just don't have a gift for it. But lately, I've been trying to be better at snapping shots of good reference I see everyday. It's my way of "cataloging" my inspiration and remembering it. Which is why I like blogging too...I feel like knowing I have an outlet to share things makes me be more observant and appreciative of my everyday surroundings. So, here are a few little snapshots with flowers in vases that caught my eye:

I brought these simple flowers home from the grocery store the other day, stuck them in a vase in the corner, and realized this made such a nice color palette: a soft neutral aqua, vibrant yellow-green, honey mustard yellow and expresso brown.

This is a cute, little storefront of Wild Flour Bakery in Rocky River. It just feels European (maybe French?) to me, though I've never been to Europe. I've never been into this bakery either (everything was closed on Sunday), but it just looks so inviting, doesn't it? Plus, I am a sucker for anything painted cobalt blue...don't know why, I just am. Ooh, this makes me want to post some pics from my trip to Jamaica a few years ago (LOTS of cobalt blue there!). I'll save that for next time!

august highlights

2008-08-25T14:16:00.010-04:00

August has been a busy but fun month of summer celebrating–celebrating family, friends, nature, locally-grown foods (mmm, they are sooooo good right now), baseball and birthdays! My husband just had a birthday and it seems the past week has been full of surprises for both of us.

Last weekend, we went to the Shaker Lakes Nature Center on Cleveland's eastside:

Here's Jeff, perhaps contemplating life's big mysteries? Or wondering where I hid his birthday gifts? Or studying cattails close-up? Or did he just lose his flip-flop?

I liked this saying that was carved into the rail.

I think I might chose this house if I were a bird...

...a leaning tower bird condo!

I loved the painted wooden sign with a map of the trail.

Here's a detail of the map.

It was magical, the way the leaves became transparent in the sunlight. I love how forests have mini-forests within them, how each tree is a canopy in a forest, but also how each individual leaf becomes a canopy as well.

It was a flower wonderland.

I mean, who wouldn't want to go down this path?! There's bound to be good things on the other side!

Baseball is one of my husband's favorite summer pasttimes...and going to games has become one of mine too. Jeff surprised me with an afternoon baseball outing last Thursday...I have to say we were really enjoying the benefits of self-employment that day!

Our seats at the game...in Jeff's favorite section. Go Tribe!

Then on to sit outside at one of our favorite city hotspots...Great Lakes Brewery Company. Holy Moses with an orange (on the right) is my beverage of choice on a hot summer day, Jeff's is Imperial Dortmunder (on the left).

Patio at GLBC.

And here's some more of the celebrating with family and friends this month:

My niece Ava, snapping her first beans. As you can see, she was a very determined little snapper.

The Winery at Wolf Creek has some new additions this summer...goats!

Here's Miss Ava and her goat-friend having a little staredown.

This is what we all secretly want to do when we bite into a cupcake.

Mmmm...can I have another?

Some of my bestest friends in our party dresses! What a fun baby party!

Back on the homefront:

Sometimes I only have to look as far as my backyard for reference...see this animated spread from my book Haiku Baby and you'll know see exactly how my world finds its way into my art. We've been enjoying watching our resident fawns grow up. They still have their spots but have gotten so big...and have almost learned to not bother running from our old, harmless dog.

This is Hank, doing what he does best in the dog days of summer...dreaming of deer-chasing.

summer debut

2008-08-01T17:20:00.008-04:00

Just thought I'd post these two gift cards I did for Target that made their debut this summer. If you get the chance, look for the actual cards in Target because they did a great job with the printing techniques to give them that extra something special. It was a really fun project to work on. It's funny, I remember getting the call from my agent while I was getting a manicure the day before my wedding. So we set up a conference call that same day, right before the rehearsal dinner, and I got the project. Some things you just can't pass up, even if it IS the day before your wedding.

My book signing at Joseph-Beth in Cincinnati went great! Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures of this event. I just have this picture a friend of mine took on their cell phone earlier in July. It was a really good turnout for the signing, and I could tell the bookstore did a lot to promote the event. The staff was so accommodating and nice, and I couldn't have felt more welcome. It's so fun to talk to parents and kids afterwards too. I always learn so much. I also got to spend some time with a few good friends, which always fills me up inside and gives me an extra boost of happy vibes.

signing "signs"

2008-07-21T15:19:00.010-04:00

My Haiku Baby book signing last Saturday at Joseph-Beth was oh-so fun! The store even sold out of books! I think it's so funny to see signs and posters promoting my book around the stores. Ones with my head shot are especially silly to me because I am so NOT the celebrity.

I loved sitting in front of the fireplace to read my book...it felt like home. I feel like I turned a corner and that I'm starting to really figure out how to relate to a younger audience and make the storytimes and readings a little more interactive. And Jeff helped me mock up an oversized book that really helped keep the kids attention...the little book is tough for reading to big groups.

I also passed out little birdie finger puppets (with feathery wings!) this time, and had the kids hold them up whenever they saw the bird show up in the book. It certainly helped to have the support of so many family and friends there too. It's so important to have cheerleaders in your life, and I think I have the best.

Maybe I had a little help from nature too. I saw this giant halo moon the night before, and I had to pull over and take some pictures of it because it was so amazing and it was such a haiku moment. In my head I was singing Jolie Holland's "Amen, there's a ring around the moon..." song. I felt like seeing the moon was the world's sign to me that all is well and the next day would go well (I get very nervous before these things). My friend Jenny's blog says it was "the full moon of the guru," which I guess means you're supposed to celebrate all the teachers in your life. I thought that was so fitting. In a way, Saturday was partly about paying homage to all those people that helped me on my path. I feel like sharing Haiku Baby with the world is my way of giving back everything people have given to me along the way. I think it was a "haiku moment" for all of us, not just for me, because I think there is a little bit of everyone special to me in this book.

the best job ever

2008-07-17T16:04:00.003-04:00

Sometimes I can't believe I ever let myself get stressed out or negative about how I make a living. Today is one of those days when I realize how lucky I am to do what I do everyday. What is my job like today? I am dumping out bags of feathers from the craft store, trying to find "just right" colors and sizes for little birdie finger puppets. And I catch myself being all serious and wishing I could art direct the feathers..."Why can't you be more BLUE?" and "If you were only a tad SMALLER..." And then my husband says "Come on Betsy, they're FEATHERS! They're fine. The kids will love them." He's right, and then I relax and have fun again. I mean, really, who can complain about playing with feathers?

Now you might wonder why I am making finger puppets for my job (and not actually getting paid for this one). Well, I am handing them out at the Haiku Baby storytime and book signing I am doing at the Cleveland Joseph-Beth (Legacy Village) this Saturday at 11am. You can read more info about my book and signing (and me!) in the article featured in this week's Cleveland Scene. Should be a fun time...please join us if you are in the area. Then YOU can play with feathers too!

ICON5 scrapbook

2008-07-08T10:51:00.016-04:00

I was in NYC last Wednesday through Sunday for the illustration conference. The trip was so inspiring for so many reasons that I don't even know where to start! It came at a perfect time for me because I'm just finishing up 2 big book projects and now I feel so rejuvenated and ready to move on to new things.

If you're an illustrator and you've never been to the conference, or if you missed this one, you should check out the official ICON site so you can get an idea of what it's all about. Plus, they plan on posting follow-ups and content from some of the presenters, so stop back later too.

The conference took place in the historic Roosevelt Hotel on Madison at 45th. I love the details of old hotels and have to say it was one of the best hotels I've stayed in NYC.

On Thursday I did a studio tour of Curious Pictures in the morning. That was interesting to me because they do a lot of animation for children's series, which is something I'd like to get into someday.

Thursday afternoon I went to Jessie Hartland's studio. I've admired her artwork for several years. I love the naive quality of her painting and that her art really speaks to people of all different age groups. It's so approachable. I especially liked to hear her talk about her experience designing Christmas window displays for Bloomingdale's. What an amazing opportunity! She had this reindeer you can see in the background hanging up at the entrance to her studio.

our tour group on the roof of Jessie's building

From the rooftop, we could see the Brooklyn Bridge with the waterfall installation by Danish artist Olafur Eliasson.

The day before, I got to meet Maria Eugenia, who came all the way from Brazil. She's also represented by my agent, so it was fun to meet a fellow Painted Words artist!

After the day of studio tours, the rest of the conference events were mostly at the hotel, other than some gallery openings in the evenings.

I loved how this table evolved into a place where everyone would leave their promo cards. It was fun to dig through the pile of postcards and find little treasures of art.

In addition to the inspiration I gained from all of the presenters, one of the big highlights for me was meeting new people, developing friendships and spending time with old friends. My dear college friend Megan O'Brien was with me at the conference and made it that much MORE fun and meaningful, and I also got to reconnect with Jeanine Henderson and meet some of her NY buds. We all had a blast together and tore up the dance floor at the closing party. I'm sure there will be some interesting (and probably embarrassing) dance photos of us that end up on the ICON site, but for now, here are my favorite friend-time pictures:

rooftop patio bar at our hotel

Megan and Jeanine, my silly mojito girls!

who knew it could still be so fun in the rain?

lovely megan with her parasol

4th of July...see the fireworks waaaaaay in the background?

Megan at dinner in a French cafe in SoHo

Princess Megan and Mardi Gras Jeanine at the closing party

no, it is not New Year's Eve...this is just what happens when you get a bunch of crazy artists together for a party

So, those are the ICON highlights. Good times. Hope to see all my ICON peeps back again at the next one!

mosaic game.

2008-06-04T21:46:00.005-04:00

I found this little fun game circulating on a few blogs I visit from time to time. So I thought I'd pass it on.

Here's what you do:
a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
b. Using only the first page, pick an image.
c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd's mosaic maker.

And here are the questions:
1. What is your first name? Betsy
2. What is your favorite food? avocado (at least, right now)
3. What high school did you go to? Nordonia
4. What is your favorite color? aquamarine
5. Who is your celebrity crush? Dr. McDreamy (Patrick Dempsey)
6. Favorite drink? mojito
7. Dream vacation? tropical island
8. Favorite dessert? my own tiramisu
9. What you want to be when you grow up? marine biologist
10. What do you love most in life? serendipity
11. One Word to describe you. dreamer
12. Your flickr name. don't have one

Now it's your turn!

*This is just for fun, but if any of the copyright owners of these photos object to being represented in this mosaic, please send me a comment and I will remove your image pronto.

happy birthday haiku baby!

2008-05-27T16:56:00.016-04:00

It's finally here! Today is the official release date for my first authored book, Haiku Baby, published by Random House Children's Books. Special thanks to my agent, coach and friend Lori at Painted-Words, who discovered this opportunity for me, to my amazingly talented editor Heidi and art director Tracy, who believed in my vision from the beginning and have helped me feel at home with Random House, and to my enthusiastic publicist Emily, who is the ultimate cheerleader and is always one step ahead of me.

It's been such a special experience to create a book from concept to production...a dream come true really. It was November 2006 when I first submitted concepts to Random House (also the first time I'd EVER sent concepts to a publisher). I was prepared for rejection, but was soooooo excited to find out they liked THREE of my books ideas and trusted me enough to not only illustrate but also write them too! I still remember my agent Lori's e-mail, titled "Get out the champagne!!!" That was a good moment, when I knew this little thumbnail and haiku I sent off to Random House was about to grow into something much bigger.

So this little idea, that I had finally gotten out of my head and onto paper, became this sketch...

...and then this sketch became this "haiku moment."

And right now is a good moment too, to have my book officially out there in the world. My Haiku Baby has been born.

For another sneak peek, check out the newly launched www.haikubaby.com!

7 things.

2008-05-19T10:57:00.006-04:00

At last, I am blogging again! It's been a busy month, with an office flood and a quick temporary set-up of operations in our living room (it has truly become our "living room"). But we are getting by alright, despite the tight quarters and lack of storage. And I have a girls' beach trip planned for this weekend, so that will be a nice change of scenery.

So, a while back I was tagged by my friend Jenny to post my "7 things," which apparently can be ANYthings. I've decided to do my seven in the moment moments, though it's so hard to limit it just to seven. It's funny, with things like this, it seems like no matter how many I'm "allowed," it's never enough. Why is that? Here goes:

1. I can't say I remember this exact moment, but it is Jeff's favorite kid pic of me, and look at me, I have to be in the moment here. I'm sitting on the porch of my family's rustic mountain cabin, feet dangling, perfectly content to eat my cracker and ponder life's big questions like, "I wonder how many salamanders I'll catch today." I'm pretty sure I'd do the same thing today.

2. Riding my bike has to be way up there on my list. I like to feel the wind in my hair and hear the sound of the gears clicking. Today, my bike is yellow, but when I was little, I had the best pink banana bike with streamers, a goose horn, and a white plastic basket in the front.

3. Though I hardly get to do this anymore, I LOVE ice skating, especially outside. There's nothing like it.

4. Well, I'm cheating on this one a little....sort of a 3 for 1 deal. But isn't art about pushing boundaries? Artistically, this image is about both printmaking and watercolor. This is a white line woodcut I did in a workshop at American Greetings, where I actually used watercolor paints instead of oil-based inks. Printmaking and watercolor on their own are such different processes, but both are activities where I can really get lost in the act of making. With printmaking, it's the mark-making, the layering of colors, and the sounds and smells of mixing and rolling out the sticky ink for that "orange peel" texture that means it's just right. With watercolor, it's the happy accidents, the bleeding of one color into the next, the letting go that I embrace. And then, artistic processes aside, Jeff and I really enjoy the experience of wine...learning about it, visiting wineries (especially Napa and Sonoma), and yes, tasting it.

5. Sand and water between my toes, and a flowing Hawaiian skirt dancing in the breeze...ahhhhh.

6. Whale watching is one of those incredibly religious experiences for me and I do it whenever I can (which is not too often since we do not have whales in Lake Erie).

7. Walking down the aisle at my wedding...I thought it might be this surreal "spotlight" out-of-body experience that would just go too fast, but I remember being very conscious of taking it all in, that moment with my dad, the faces of loved ones smiling back at me, the stone floor, the rose petals, the spots of sunlight and shade, and looking up to see that man at the end of the aisle, waiting for me. It was so much more comfortable that I had imagined. Photo courtesy of our good friend and talented wedding photographer, Donna Von Bruening (who happens to have a very inspiring blog too).

a "very silly" philly

2008-04-13T15:22:00.015-04:00

I just got back from a very exciting few days in Philadelphia, thanks to my book, Peanut Butter and Jellyfishes: A Very Silly Alphabet Book. I was there to accept the Please Touch Museum's 23rd Annual Book Award for the ages 3 and under category at the Delaware Valley Association for the Education of Young Children's (DVAEYC) annual conference (that's a mouthful!). The conference took place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and I was asked to give a short acceptance speech for an audience of 3000+. It was a little intimidating to think of being in front of that many people, and I have to admit I was SUPER nervous, but the experience became a wonderful moment of growth and confidence for me. I even received a few compliments on my speech from conference attendees, which meant the world to me. My speech was basically a shout-out to all those that helped me with the award and PBJ along the way: Please Touch Museum and the Albert M. Greenfield Foundation, the author Brian Cleary, Lerner Publishing, my support system of family and friends (I'm sure my husband loved it when I thanked him for being "my cheerleader," but he was a good sport and even waved), and the audience of educators, who have made it their mission to enrich the lives of young children.

And then it was smooth-sailing after that...a few signings at the conference on Friday, and then a reading and signing at Please Touch Museum on Saturday. Thanks again to PTM and staff for the award and my visit to Philly, and thanks to all those educators and kids I met that bought my book. I hope you have fun with it just as much as I had fun meeting you!

Check out the other winning book for ages 4-7 too: Do Unto Otters by Laurie Keller. And here's a little more info about the book award from an article in the Bulletin, Philadelphia's daily family newspaper.

And lastly, here's a little album of trip highlights...it had to be the most magical time to be in Philadelphia with all of the cherry blossoms and magnolias in bloom.

signing at the DVAEYC conference

post-award acceptance with Pennsylvania Convention Center in background

just outside Please Touch Museum

elephant at PTM made out of recycled stuff

PTM exhibit honoring Maurice Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are

I am no longer afraid of wearing yellow:) I think there must be something about yellow sweaters.

a fun Phillies game with my dad and Jeff

my first cappuccino...see the secret bird on the inside of the cup?

we loved Alma de Cuba...very yummy mojitos and truffled guacamole

the perfect spot to sit outside and grab a chai tea latte, a sandwich, and a piece of chocolate chip pound cake

just outside the Rodin museum

The rest of these photos are all from the Horticulture Center and Japanese House at Philadelphia's Fairmount Park...

I was intrigued by the elongated proportions of this statue.

a bug in daffodil heaven!

what a view!

weeping cherry blossoms...I'm loving this color palette of soft pinks, dark brown and blue-grey

cherry blossom snow

who knew moss and mold (whatever it is) could be so beautiful?

this feels like a Japanese woodblock that's come to life

Jeff sketching (and patiently waiting for me to be ready to leave...it was hard)

so, this is my zen moment this spring...

...and Jeff's zen moment with a magnolia tree...

...and a dog's zen moment in the fountain. Carpe diem, little weiner dog!

The end.

fall friends

2008-03-30T14:34:00.005-04:00

There's a new show up at the Society of Illustrators...the 50th Annual Exhibition for Advertising, Institutional and Uncommissioned Work. I have one piece in the show, a greeting card I did for American Greetings, which I like to call "Fall Friends."

© AGC, Inc.

funny bunny

2008-03-30T14:17:00.007-04:00

Just wanted to share this sweet, little bunny cookie my mother-in-law made. It was so cute I almost didn't want to eat it, but I managed to nibble it down somehow.

happy spring...aloha!

2008-03-19T17:37:00.016-04:00

So, since today's officially the first day of spring, we still have snow on the ground in Ohio, and I know we're all craving sunshine, warmth, and green, I thought I'd post some images that give me hope that it's all right around the corner. Plus, my artist-friend Jenny Kostecki-Shaw just returned from her trip to Kauai and it made me want to go back and look at my honeymoon photos. So, enjoy this little mini-album from Kauai. Hope you can look out your window and see real flowers soon!

double rainbow at our beach cottage

plumeria, which became my most favorite flower...
they smell heavenly

taro fields

bamboo creaking in the wind

sunrise

rainy sunrise

roadside fruit stand

silly chicken

jungle vines...this is the trailhead for the famous Kalalau Trail

Ke'e Beach...as far as you can go the north shore...this is where the Na Pali coast starts.

Ke'e Beach

awhhhhh...toes in the water

palm tree dancing in the breeze

Ke'e Beach at sunset

a little hidden spot we found to watch the surfers

secret beach...our favorite spot

lava rocks

tide pools...see Jeff way down there?

more tide pools

a happy little cloud

we loved these wispy trees

the end!

i do...deja vu

2008-03-10T21:19:00.008-04:00

This is my very favorite bridge. No, it's not the bridge I flew over in junior girl scouts (though that was cool too...for some reason that was such a BIG deal at the time). This is the Bow Bridge in Central Park, where I got engaged less than a year ago (much to my surprise). I thought Jeff and I were doing a photo shoot in Central Park for my head shot, so I was trying to act all model-like and was following Jeff's photographer instructions very closely, "Look left. Look right. Look up. Keep looking up until I tell you to look down...okay, look down." And there he was, on bended knee, holding the tiny ring in his hand and asking me to marry him. When I finally remembered to say "Yes!" we were applauded by a bridge-full of onlookers. It was like a dream, like what you see in the movies. Every morning for a week I'd have to check my finger when I woke up to make sure there was still something sparkly there. And the funniest thing is that Jeff was completely improvising at the time he proposed...his original plan to propose at the Guggenheim was foiled when all the center galleries and lobby were closed. But I think it all happened just the way it was supposed to.

We went back to the bridge last Sunday morning, and Jeff, my (now) husband surprised me with a stop at Crumbs bake shop on our way to the park. We got our order to go, and had a lovely cupcake breakfast in our little magic hut by the bridge. It's amazing how your life can change in a year. And how a place can transport you back there in an instant.

I spy our magic hut. There should be more flower windows in the world...such a nice shape to peer through, don't you think?

I love the detail of the bridge. Our dear friends Nicole and Genna of Invite Design incorporated the pattern into our custom wedding invitations.

Us married folks. Lately, I've been thinking about the symbolism of the bridge...something that joins 2 sides, a crossing point. I like thinking about marriage as a bridge.

more from MOMA

2008-03-04T18:10:00.011-05:00

Don't you love these crazy striped steps? I couldn't resist plopping myself down on something so colorful and happy (plus my feet needed a rest!). I love color AND stripes, as you can tell from my rainbow scarf I wear ALL the time...it's like my winter "woobie". I do wish we could have caught the Color Chart: Reinventing Color, 1950 to Today exhibit, but it was a member's only preview that day.

And I just had to rescue this orphan pup from the MOMA store, made from recycled yarn. He was begging for me to take him home...really he was. Woof-woof!

little bets in the big apple

2008-03-03T20:15:00.002-05:00

Jeff and I just got back from a long weekend in NYC. We were supposed to be headed there for the Society of Illustrators 50th Annual awards presentation and gala for the Book and Editorial categories, which I have a piece in. BUT, I accidentally booked our flights for a weekend later. And when I realized it, Continental took no pity on me. So, we ended up going just because, which is sometimes the very best reason...no reason at all!

We did still get to see the exhibition. It's a great show, and definitely worth seeing if you're into illustration or books. Here's my piece in the show–it's from my book Peanut Butter and Jellyfishes: A Very Silly Alphabet Book by Brian P. Cleary:

© 2007 Betsy E. Snyder

We also saw a great show at the MOMA...Lucian Freud: The Painter's Etchings. I love Lucian Freud's work AND I love printmaking, so seeing his etchings was enough of a reason for a trip to NYC. To me, his work looks like sculpture–it's so malleable and visceral and textural. I was super inspiring to get up close to his etchings and REALLY look at his mark-making and areas of light and dark. I also love his color palettes in his paintings...I'm always amazed at the subtlety and layering of color he achieves in his skin tones.

More NYC highlights to come...I have to find the cord for my camera so I can upload some photos!