A Blog Pivot

Since my day job is at an academic medical center, I thought I might change the flavor of this blog from children's writing to children's health and activities. This main focus pivot will align better with my daily thoughts and perhaps lend itself to posting more often. 

So... have you heard about the various healthy activities available for kids during the summer months? I spotted this extensive list and wanted to pass it along. The fun includes artistic, indoor/outdoor, exploration, local trips and more!

Let me know your favorites. I love biking/hiking, drawing/painting, and dreaming up new juice pops and smoothie flavors! - Q

Book club for Kids

I'm a member of a book club and we read a variety of books and genres suggested by the members. It's fun and exposes me to books I never would have picked up otherwise. Now, I must admit, I don't finish all of them. Time is a valuable commodity and why read something that is REALLY not your thing for a week. But, I finish probably 75% of the books. 

Recently, I got to thinking about a children's book club. Wouldn't it be fun to read picture books and discuss them once a month? Then it hit me, I do that all the time with online critique partners, forums, editor/agent blogs, etc. I read some books I am surprised by and others that leave me giggling. 

As a picture book writer, I go to the library every Saturday and check out 7-12 picture books from the new book shelf or on display in other areas. I pour over the formats and make note of what fits with my style. Definitely learning made fun. I read and finish 100% of the books I check out. 

What ways do you further your skills as a children's writer? -Q

April Fool's Day

Are you a trickster? A joker? Is today your day of all days? Enjoy! I celebrate your creativity and look forward to hearing about your pranks. Imagination is queen!
-Q

How Do You Wait?

Waiting has never been easy for me. My birthday is in January and as a child I waited FOREVER for the holidays and my birthday to roll around each year. Then, almost without taking a breath they were over and again the never ending WAITING!
My iphone changed all that. Now waiting is a chance to catch up, to check the weather, and play games. It's a happy break from work, life, laundry and the occasional kitty hair balls.
How do you wait? 
-Q