Small Whale

I initially rejected this sketch when it was just a few faint lines. I thought it was ridiculous because either the reeds are too big or the whale is too small. Then upon reflection, I decided that was okay. I chose the idea of a small whale but you can see it whichever way you'd like.

Otter

This little fella showed up when I was jotting down some ideas the other day.

Cottontail Cousin

This is Freddy Cottontail, second cousin to Peter.
Freddy likes jelly beans, carrot chips, and doing things on his own.
He prefers hiding dyed leaves for Easter instead of eggs.
He is allowing us only a quick peek at this time.

Thanks, Freddy.  Good work!

Prep Bunnies

The bright spring flowers are making me think of Easter baskets. While we're strolling along admiring the colors, somebunny has to get ready for the big day!

Beeeee

I'm working on a new dummy book. This is one of the characters in the book. I love drawing bees and other bugs!

Have a great weekend!
-Joy

SpringTime Humming

Humming a favorite song and Hot, Strong Coffee. Must be SpringTime.

….or, any day in the year, actually. 

Happy Spring!

Catching up on our reading

Sunday is a great day to catch up on our reading. So do like Bear and grab a book everybody!

kids from the sketchbook

Sorry for the late post! I was figuring out how I wanted to sketch kids the other day. Here are just a few from the ol' sketchbook.

Have a great weekend!
-Joy

Spring Chicken

The Spring Chicken who crossed the road to sit and sing amongst the wildflowers who live there.

A Spread From My Sketchbook

Life is so busy right now.
It's Reading Month in Michigan, and I find myself at a bunch of different schools every week. I carry a sketchbook with me, not just to show to the students but also to keep myself occupied in down time and to keep track of interesting things that pop up.

Here's a spread from my sketchbook.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? I highly recommend it!

Marianne North Character Study

Knitty Kitty

Sunday is a good day for a little hobby time!

Bathtime

I have had bunnies on the brain lately. They are very good at having baths!

#KidLit4Climate

Recently, I created an illustration for a cause called #kidlit4climate. It's a movement showing support for the young people we create books for. Standing with them in their (and our) fight to take action against climate change. Originally, I drew a polar bear. On further consideration, I decided to refresh a character I created years ago. Her name is Olive Greenly. I'm hoping to write some stories and adventures for her, and Eco her dog, someday soon!

Happy Friday!
-Joy

March Rainy Days

Marianne North

Victorian botanist, artist and explorer. She traveled to every continent except Antartica to paint plants from around the world. She painted over 1000 paintings during her travels. 

The Desert Hare

For my very first ever post to this wonderful blog, a deep philosophical moment.
The desert hare (ahem): "I just have to start using conditioner."

I hope you're having a great Sunday!

"Baby's House" homage

Happy Friday, everyone! It's good to be back on the blog again with all these talented folks!

I was looking at a Mary Blair magnet I made years ago from a picture in her book "Baby's House" and felt like doing a quick sketch in my own style. I could definitely tweak and correct some things but just wanted to leave it as is.

Thanks for the visit!
-Joy