I love getting big boxes

of my new books. CHEERS FOR A DOZEN EARS, A Summer Crop of Counting, by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky, and published by Albert Whitman & Company arrived just as I finished the next in the series, SUGAR WHITE SNOW & EVERGREENS.

 

I think I need a rest!

the wonderful Felicia Sanzari Chernesky

I recently finished illustrations for SUGAR WHITE SNOW & EVERGREENS, written by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky. A couple of days ago I was honored and thoroughly surprised to find a gift basket on my front porch from her in thanks for my work. It was an amazingly thoughtful thing to do. She is such a wonderful writer and I am so grateful that my editor at Albert Whitman, Wendy McClure, chose me to work with Felicia.
The book won't be out until next year so I probably shouldn't show anything yet, but here are a couple of images that ended up not being used:

I have the most wonderful customers!

I received the most wonderful email from a new customer for whom I made a bracelet and earrings. She said in part - 'and I am blown away by its beauty, seriously!! wow, It feels very special that it was hand made. I just love it, ... Also, .... the earrings, I love em!! Can't wait to wear them'. 

I love my customers!

I added a patina to the ornate tulip cone/bead and from it I strung strands of turquoise and a mix of Czech picasso travertine in rusty oranges and turquoise with copper beads and rings, and made a lot of pretty dangles (including my new polymer 'helping hand' charm). My swirly copper clasp hooks to a length of chain so that the size is adjustable.