tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14675961193333198412024-03-14T06:11:16.673+11:00Danielle McdonaldDanielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.comBlogger362125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-41195064286554426842019-02-13T12:30:00.000+11:002019-02-13T12:30:11.014+11:00Award Update<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
I am still here! I didn’t mean to drop off the radar again, but I am not going to bore you with the squillions of reasons why I did not get time to blog over the last few months.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
What I DO want to share with you is some exciting achievements that rounded out the year that was 2018!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUzgCrTHEknZpMS-MrbAomkccqFkeXK3nmQf1NtFTLCw6covFK6zstYwEsr0n398phstGpnAp914-2E7_7jxXCLLcKUnQNIirwjENHkpKwlse7VfsJ4j8BlVQ-mfDgrRfhqT8-E8qSIDU/s1600/SCRIBBLES+AWARD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1183" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUzgCrTHEknZpMS-MrbAomkccqFkeXK3nmQf1NtFTLCw6covFK6zstYwEsr0n398phstGpnAp914-2E7_7jxXCLLcKUnQNIirwjENHkpKwlse7VfsJ4j8BlVQ-mfDgrRfhqT8-E8qSIDU/s640/SCRIBBLES+AWARD.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
Firstly, I received <i>‘Highly Commended’</i>Award for a story I entered into <i><a href="https://girlandduck.com/scribbles-creative-writing-awards/" style="color: #954f72;">‘The Inaugural Scribbles Writing Competition’</a></i>, created by the esteemed Author <a href="https://jenstorer.com/" style="color: #954f72;">Jen Storer</a>. (Sponsored by <a href="https://www.harpercollins.com.au/childrens/" style="color: #954f72;">Harper Collins</a>.) <a href="https://girlandduck.com/2018/12/11/the-winning-stories-a-rundown-on-each/" style="color: #954f72;">Click here</a> for the full list of Winners, along with an overview of the winning entries.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
Here’s a snippet from my entry, titled <i>‘Ava’s Aviary’</i>:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #383838; letter-spacing: 0.1pt;">‘Ava is desperate for her own bird but the answer is always the same. No! Will Ava find a way around this?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #383838; letter-spacing: 0.1pt;">From the judges: adventurous and dynamic… images and text work together beautifully.’</span></i><i><span style="color: #383838; letter-spacing: 0.1pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
This was a momentous occasion for me. I have harboured dreams of writing since I was a kid, and when I left school I decided that I needed to work on my drawing skills so that I could one day illustrate my own stories. Over the years I have lost confidence in my writing, but Jen Storer’s on-line <a href="https://girlandduck.com/online-courses/scribbles/" style="color: #954f72;">Scribbles course</a> has been carefully nurturing these aspirations again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
So, despite a constantly heavy workload, my interest in the competition piqued when Jen introduced a new category for these awards. THE STORYBOARD CATEGORY. This category was aimed at illustrators who wanted to support their story telling with images. How could I resist?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
My motivation intensified when Jen announced the judging line up for the awards – <a href="https://gabriellewang.com/" style="color: #954f72;">Gabrielle Wang</a>, <a href="http://lucindagifford.com/" style="color: #954f72;">Lucinda Gifford</a>, <a href="https://judithrossell.com/" style="color: #954f72;">Judith Rossell</a>and <a href="https://jenstorer.com/" style="color: #954f72;">Jen Storer</a>. I knew I needed to get a story in front of these wonderful industry greats, and I needed to prove to myself that I could actually COMPLETE a story.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeNpIoXKwMHpyBDHMDYD_zoqnCOO_JvEZcSJnFImgM69cbYSkFGYmjrefbCM0MCm7AaqVUuamqSVdDyYadETCKCyF-09lGd72Jenr8408HnhFjEiNHo_xZApkRJ4UwTlS2CNTHrFcYEbQ/s1600/AVIARY+STORY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="850" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeNpIoXKwMHpyBDHMDYD_zoqnCOO_JvEZcSJnFImgM69cbYSkFGYmjrefbCM0MCm7AaqVUuamqSVdDyYadETCKCyF-09lGd72Jenr8408HnhFjEiNHo_xZApkRJ4UwTlS2CNTHrFcYEbQ/s640/AVIARY+STORY.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
Four weeks from the competition deadline and I had nothing. But once I got started the momentum increased. I spent many late nights fleshing out the story and working on the pacing of the pages. It was exhilarating. I mapped out the entire book using text AND illustrations. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
I will admit that I desperately wanted to make the shortlist for the awards. It was such a restless night for me before the big announcement and when I saw my name on that list I was…relieved. I know how silly it sounds, but I just desperately wanted to get some sort of ‘sign’ from the universe that I was heading in the right direction. That my dreams of writing could have some merit. I was genuinely shocked a week later to see my story (called ‘Ava’s Aviary’) had received a ‘Highly Commended’ Award. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
So, now I have my own book to work on. Something I have written AND illustrated. I have not had this thrill since my post-university days when my world was full of dreams and visions of a future filled with stories to be told and tales to be illustrated. I have so many ideas that I need to explore. So many stories to be told. Just for the fun of it! I don’t care about the publication trail right now. I need to find the joy in creation. (More about that in another post!)<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHOmfwXEAyQ2N3_Nu3tAhR3fDZv3SeKc-2kTFwEkoafhhFfDkDEkXOxwmSSpbwaLEw_vZhyphenhyphenPV4UQoCCy3JiGxGHTmI4-sX7CLSsdazWGmyYNPnZKOM4gVTM-zYprFJAATb-BX-m4bgu8/s1600/SKETCHES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="729" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHOmfwXEAyQ2N3_Nu3tAhR3fDZv3SeKc-2kTFwEkoafhhFfDkDEkXOxwmSSpbwaLEw_vZhyphenhyphenPV4UQoCCy3JiGxGHTmI4-sX7CLSsdazWGmyYNPnZKOM4gVTM-zYprFJAATb-BX-m4bgu8/s640/SKETCHES.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here’s a little peak into some of my sketches for the story. I wonder where she will take me. She needs more work and I need to explore some techniques and colour to bring her to life, but I am excited to have some direction.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkS1likxbzopDYtRi08R3SAa-tRfnqhrJ4PxGh3WwH3cmk3ei-L0bKdfUGsn4I4bbJ3diAOzskwn8wG4_GiL363CAm7U-fQFl-dCzwoEReLVuz3oHSUiPfaQBI_B4B0lihT5ZJvPyxP6I/s1600/KOALA+AWARDS+LO+RES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="793" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkS1likxbzopDYtRi08R3SAa-tRfnqhrJ4PxGh3WwH3cmk3ei-L0bKdfUGsn4I4bbJ3diAOzskwn8wG4_GiL363CAm7U-fQFl-dCzwoEReLVuz3oHSUiPfaQBI_B4B0lihT5ZJvPyxP6I/s640/KOALA+AWARDS+LO+RES.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
You may also recall that two lovely books I illustrated were nominated for <a href="http://www.koalansw.org.au/" style="color: #954f72;">Koala Awards</a> (held in Sydney) at the end of last year. These awards hold a special place in the hearts of those in the industry, as they are voted for by the readers – the kids!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xlHDkbDGZ5nGo4_BlRbJdF2Sux_RnNVG4lMv5zrbZ5ZGHmlrjGbDqQeZ79CScxtYGTmwnEphaUIAlDVpaVtrzQ4psrcu3yd4IVPyBHL683ukfXyTnr-ElqKHNBDGTySjJwnve1eakXM/s1600/ED+PONY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="434" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xlHDkbDGZ5nGo4_BlRbJdF2Sux_RnNVG4lMv5zrbZ5ZGHmlrjGbDqQeZ79CScxtYGTmwnEphaUIAlDVpaVtrzQ4psrcu3yd4IVPyBHL683ukfXyTnr-ElqKHNBDGTySjJwnve1eakXM/s640/ED+PONY.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<br />
I am delighted to announce that <i>Ella Diaries ‘Pony School Showdown’</i>(written by <a href="https://www.meredithcostain.com/" style="color: #954f72;">Meredith Costain</a>) picked up an ‘Honour Book’ Award in the Younger Readers Category 2018.<br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.koalansw.org.au/" style="color: #954f72;">Click here</a> to check out all of the winners.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkYLi5EdCRazSCnVupJnenLTkDNzTyvyF6iPP6qxpxMAt-RI4Kt5Bp_PDv4k1WupLbWA8j4btU54Bca91FCdo3Lmz_AU52qU-pVZFFTmBsLGl-b5EzVRqJcQ68r7de2d4KXsDDwLHKuZ4/s1600/KOALA+AWARDS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkYLi5EdCRazSCnVupJnenLTkDNzTyvyF6iPP6qxpxMAt-RI4Kt5Bp_PDv4k1WupLbWA8j4btU54Bca91FCdo3Lmz_AU52qU-pVZFFTmBsLGl-b5EzVRqJcQ68r7de2d4KXsDDwLHKuZ4/s640/KOALA+AWARDS.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
That’s me on the right and our lovely Editor Kate on the left.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
Unfortunately, Meredith could not make the award ceremony, as she was attending another ceremony in Melbourne on the same night. This time it was <i>Ella Diaries “Going Green' </i>that was nominated in the Wilderness Society’s <a href="http://www.eacl.org.au/winners2018/" style="color: #954f72;">Environmental Award for Children’s Literature.</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<a href="http://www.eacl.org.au/winners2018/">Click here</a> for the winners.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfEnMVqbGIY5APNj4TlE-FLRx0hJ7DfEk20v8aV5M213wNjwTaksAhRWLkXMoloFlxmeMjaPhojQitDZ9QEpyxSvh5ip-xFbpz8m6C3jts8HZAaJOeYDVazxeyUqW-4lHUpQ1U8PXdLQ/s1600/wilderness+awards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="456" data-original-width="765" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfEnMVqbGIY5APNj4TlE-FLRx0hJ7DfEk20v8aV5M213wNjwTaksAhRWLkXMoloFlxmeMjaPhojQitDZ9QEpyxSvh5ip-xFbpz8m6C3jts8HZAaJOeYDVazxeyUqW-4lHUpQ1U8PXdLQ/s640/wilderness+awards.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And in other Award news, <i>Ella and Olivia’s Special Edition ‘Best Friend Stories’ </i>(written by <a href="https://www.yvetteposh.com/" style="color: #954f72;">Yvette Poshoglian</a>) was shortlisted in the Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards 2018.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><a href="https://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/SPAweb/whats_on/Book_of_the_Year/SPAweb/What_s_On/Book_of_the_Year/Book_of_the_Year.aspx?hkey=6d7d21b1-0cd6-4b86-91e3-11884f031a02" style="color: #954f72;">Click here</a> for the winners.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBF5brJwnmjyALfOMaHdW7Jzw9QTD3owBMO9Ch7MYjkabxd6ovl2YSIc7zj2w4Q9O_fIZm-HJKn-6267J3UJo65YrX7kKfi20yZxfSTPFiBvwH8C-cbeysrtQ8HaPvZAUaXomHjZ5383g/s1600/EO+SPECIAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="436" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBF5brJwnmjyALfOMaHdW7Jzw9QTD3owBMO9Ch7MYjkabxd6ovl2YSIc7zj2w4Q9O_fIZm-HJKn-6267J3UJo65YrX7kKfi20yZxfSTPFiBvwH8C-cbeysrtQ8HaPvZAUaXomHjZ5383g/s640/EO+SPECIAL.jpg" width="506" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
Not a bad way to round out the year.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-90598213912528682252018-10-23T10:52:00.000+11:002018-10-23T11:29:05.964+11:00Award season!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabtwhqwJSlq3XENI5cTkNP8kGPjUf4cUrwWukHzIUuilZfZdQmDUPBEqLhV-4vPoI8BeHEvqETSd4tV5-6r2nZfH9wlh837j8YcIz3pMB4_Ip8u5arOkNj6V2BeAZBf0jv1OpAjAKEHo/s1600/KOALA+AWARDS+LO+RES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="1189" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabtwhqwJSlq3XENI5cTkNP8kGPjUf4cUrwWukHzIUuilZfZdQmDUPBEqLhV-4vPoI8BeHEvqETSd4tV5-6r2nZfH9wlh837j8YcIz3pMB4_Ip8u5arOkNj6V2BeAZBf0jv1OpAjAKEHo/s640/KOALA+AWARDS+LO+RES.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Yay! I have two books that I illustrated up for the Children's Choice Book Awards! </span><b style="text-align: left;"><i>Ella and Olivia's</i></b><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><i style="text-align: left;">Zoo Rescue</i><span style="text-align: left;"> (By Yvette Poshoglian), and </span><b style="text-align: left;"><i>Ella Diaries</i></b><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><i style="text-align: left;">Pony School Showdown </i><span style="text-align: left;">(By Meredith Costain.) I will be attending the Koala Awards ceremony again this year and can't wait to meet all of the students, organisers and fellow Authors and Illustrators. These award ceremonies are always so much fun, and for me it's a wonderful opportunity to connect with the industry and the readers of these books.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2L5rwU0X_QF0P8RnG2bOY_c78NIvU0LjETeRQ8iA1YeMmNxUeK0-TgW-kby4pEhindqxTLiQ9SSmnLdjlNbdVILe-sx3tkY4A2SSPTiqXaIJ0QGTcGw1EguxryesK7KldNx4VbX6NlQ/s1600/wilderness+awards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="953" data-original-width="1600" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2L5rwU0X_QF0P8RnG2bOY_c78NIvU0LjETeRQ8iA1YeMmNxUeK0-TgW-kby4pEhindqxTLiQ9SSmnLdjlNbdVILe-sx3tkY4A2SSPTiqXaIJ0QGTcGw1EguxryesK7KldNx4VbX6NlQ/s640/wilderness+awards.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We also have Ella Diaries Going Green (By Meredith Costain) shortlisted for an Environment Award for Children's Literature with the Wilderness Society.<br />
<br />
All of the award winners will be announced by early November. Good luck to all of the shortlisters! Fingers crossed!Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-75139999872505776162018-10-15T15:34:00.002+11:002018-10-15T15:34:52.368+11:00So much to sew!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkLO3OYuzPmdUmFyqfQZHtoWF0L5boBz69jK0WByuIO8LH_-MG6DkttYP0Ke0b9cwhDI5UYbGR3W3lULFTiLBknquKzD-hY45DmzVCzVj8a0ys-RvVgoZGdAFo4MOWk5Fr1Wasr0pTT3E/s1600/MOD+1.3A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1100" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkLO3OYuzPmdUmFyqfQZHtoWF0L5boBz69jK0WByuIO8LH_-MG6DkttYP0Ke0b9cwhDI5UYbGR3W3lULFTiLBknquKzD-hY45DmzVCzVj8a0ys-RvVgoZGdAFo4MOWk5Fr1Wasr0pTT3E/s640/MOD+1.3A.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's another embroidery sample from <a href="https://womanwithafish.wordpress.com/2017/06/10/texture-pattern-online-workshop/">this fabulous course</a>. I just love the denim and could quite happily use it for all my samples. But I realise I need to try some different fabrics to help get an understanding of how various fabrics impact the stitches.<br />
<br />
So, I used corduroy fabric this time. A few people in the Facebook group found it very unusual. I am enjoying not knowing the 'rules' in this medium as I don't feel any restrictions at all. It's just purely about exploration and experimentation. It's so refreshing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivspnnP1r0z6ZiECBY1B3t_lwMlLt3Bwcho4CTj24IPxgO9eTbysCghXOEJgs5GXi2M6tutuScjWxyA4EtcPrqFmJZ3EVwzvWkbKwNOpUPlN7m8YbUxvrkQYYvpggcvq4oLHL9xj4vE6k/s1600/MOD+1.4B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1183" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivspnnP1r0z6ZiECBY1B3t_lwMlLt3Bwcho4CTj24IPxgO9eTbysCghXOEJgs5GXi2M6tutuScjWxyA4EtcPrqFmJZ3EVwzvWkbKwNOpUPlN7m8YbUxvrkQYYvpggcvq4oLHL9xj4vE6k/s640/MOD+1.4B.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We are also encouraged to keep a notebook as a record of our samples. It's a great place to keep track of various techniques, as well as any thoughts or ideas for future exploration.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rr49K2c2zr7iHKfsf224T5GVjQElGC0GSxV8cRsryc0yIvhPOWkEvJpE5QKXcNgS-h1BkdCZR1HGgFBTihsuErte8SDEtXgGvbnbkk6W2RiAxNXYUvu4pdupzzTMt2MK5uHKvqEiGao/s1600/Sample+book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1183" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rr49K2c2zr7iHKfsf224T5GVjQElGC0GSxV8cRsryc0yIvhPOWkEvJpE5QKXcNgS-h1BkdCZR1HGgFBTihsuErte8SDEtXgGvbnbkk6W2RiAxNXYUvu4pdupzzTMt2MK5uHKvqEiGao/s640/Sample+book.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I have just finished Module 1, which was all about running stitch, and now Module 2 is backstitching.<br />
<i>DRAWING</i> with backstitching! I have been desperate to try some stitching using one of my own illustrations, but I am already having a few technical issues!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI1HLyEck2bMAp_MO2MTHNzB7gRhNLF-ZS_FlqUS4GapJdFzZE-UjKOUqK0WY9wruc-CjSu0W4bTFTpex6tSxkEd_zaId6jBgllBePjsRifZWxa30AHl3S23bj9rZAgu8IJczxRHb08Q/s1600/BACK+STITCH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1183" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI1HLyEck2bMAp_MO2MTHNzB7gRhNLF-ZS_FlqUS4GapJdFzZE-UjKOUqK0WY9wruc-CjSu0W4bTFTpex6tSxkEd_zaId6jBgllBePjsRifZWxa30AHl3S23bj9rZAgu8IJczxRHb08Q/s640/BACK+STITCH.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
For my first sample, I did not have any tissue paper to trace the image onto, so I used baking paper! Once the paper was ripped off, the stitches were too loose! So I bought some tissue paper, and reduced the thread to a single strand. Now I think the stitches are too small! I think this will take a bit of practice to get the look and feel that I am happy with. But it's so much fun!<br />
<br />
Come back soon to see how I go with 'couching'. (I had not heard of it either until this course!) I will reveal all in my next post! I just want to sew, sew, sew!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-10103332412991769052018-09-23T15:44:00.004+10:002018-09-23T15:44:56.589+10:00Textile Art Explorations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUu0iESKtcs4Toe8Jb138PY-h1KfgKpNvb8J2cLNoQBq6EzKendEigggYo7rjw583Fm0Tzzv8riRA1ctDsS3dBh6p-33XFSBjDRq8kTj-S6pSey-WgkZ-5x82kfZHY2rGR3-CysrY3TBM/s1600/1.1+SAMPLE+1A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1183" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUu0iESKtcs4Toe8Jb138PY-h1KfgKpNvb8J2cLNoQBq6EzKendEigggYo7rjw583Fm0Tzzv8riRA1ctDsS3dBh6p-33XFSBjDRq8kTj-S6pSey-WgkZ-5x82kfZHY2rGR3-CysrY3TBM/s640/1.1+SAMPLE+1A.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Well things have taken a surprising new direction with my creative pursuits. I have just signed up for some embroidery classes!! I did not see that one coming! <br />
<br />
I can't even remember when or why I signed up to receive newsletters and emails from the <a href="https://www.textileartist.org/">Textile Artist</a> website, but I have always enjoyed seeing all of the creativity of the textile artists they feature. I have also enjoyed collecting images of contemporary textile artists on Pinterest, <a href="https://www.pinterest.com.au/reddogandjude/craft-stuff/">here</a> and <a href="https://www.pinterest.com.au/reddogandjude/stitching/">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Through this website I discovered the beautiful artwork of <a href="https://www.textileartist.org/about">Sue Stone</a>, and suddenly realised that what she was doing was basically creating illustrations using textile mediums. After watching a series of videos about her technique and approach to her artwork, and I found myself thinking about it day and night. There was a growing curiosity inside me yearning to explore how this medium could influence my own work and creativity.<br />
<br />
So, I jumped in and signed up! I am a complete novice, but am already loving the support and interaction of the others in the group. Stay tuned for more explorations and sample stitching!<br />
<br />Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-6422670216982643252018-08-30T21:25:00.000+10:002018-08-30T21:25:18.317+10:00NEW CREATIVE PURSUITS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6jSDv4JA8K6OTUX-rd1TetxWrKqyofg6ot2kjFzB3VH17LBLzzXE4bvr0iUgg3ALMI1LcyjEJ5Wt3UL9iP940_6TkQIbfxbBBeYTnRRPoJqH_amRpwrspAcOi57kZ6ob69n_OaSCJlhk/s1600/art+materials+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6jSDv4JA8K6OTUX-rd1TetxWrKqyofg6ot2kjFzB3VH17LBLzzXE4bvr0iUgg3ALMI1LcyjEJ5Wt3UL9iP940_6TkQIbfxbBBeYTnRRPoJqH_amRpwrspAcOi57kZ6ob69n_OaSCJlhk/s640/art+materials+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the reasons that I decided to start blogging again is that I am feeling the need to move in new directions. To <i>re-invent</i> myself. To seek new challenges and push myself out of my comfort zone - creatively speaking.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, I love all of my current projects and I am thrilled to be working on so many fabulous books for the foreseeable future.<br />
<br />
But, I am talking about my personal creativity.<br />
<br />
I recently bought myself a stack of new art materials and it has awakened a creative passion in me that I did not realise had been dormant for so long. I love the feel of the materials in my hands. The texture of the paper. The smell of the paint.<br />
<br />
I have not used most of these art materials since my first clumsy attempts to master them at University.<br />
<br />
It has ignited a curiosity in me. What can I do with these materials now that that my skill level has improved? This is part of the journey that I want to share here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPydao2WEJ09IPtsVnGwqTn-nR0eXZAhCIZP8REWAyPsafsz1FxyCj0Cx4N2ffstV_NyMAkf7pb0-UEj0qCBkhY-5HY7HHaTZpO5OtwvAufw7VRDmCJD-bHNKcaHQpI5qNC6RuIi4qu2Q/s1600/art+materials+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="1000" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPydao2WEJ09IPtsVnGwqTn-nR0eXZAhCIZP8REWAyPsafsz1FxyCj0Cx4N2ffstV_NyMAkf7pb0-UEj0qCBkhY-5HY7HHaTZpO5OtwvAufw7VRDmCJD-bHNKcaHQpI5qNC6RuIi4qu2Q/s640/art+materials+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">I have also enjoyed sharing this exploration with one of my daughters who is keen to join in whenever the paints come out!</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
This new awakening goes hand in hand with my life-long ambition to <i>write</i> stories for children.<br />
<br />
Over the last year or so I have been quietly participating in writing courses and workshops, expanding my network and nurturing my love of story telling. But something about reconnecting with my artwork has freed up my story ideas. It seems so obvious now, but for me, the two go hand in hand. Words and images. I think that by trying to isolate the two I took away some of the joy and pleasure of story telling. Well, for <i>me</i> anyway!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZqrqFUq0SAS4nGhngmsSmBaAT8x5I2yo8SG9O5pDRUqQY_FwRfVneeZG83VXMqJ0YQDsco8h1pfroW6qfzSKrNu1194-NDyqeEHgfNfcaAAt2RT9GlmXIJqkd7lHFhttWOngUA5qK78/s1600/desk+top+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="1183" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZqrqFUq0SAS4nGhngmsSmBaAT8x5I2yo8SG9O5pDRUqQY_FwRfVneeZG83VXMqJ0YQDsco8h1pfroW6qfzSKrNu1194-NDyqeEHgfNfcaAAt2RT9GlmXIJqkd7lHFhttWOngUA5qK78/s640/desk+top+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuzNF81mC075FPs82qAENsy2hpIQfr8APG6ZEinpMge-e3xF_GMS9yn-7ZeAB610maST6s9ofcv401YgON7NMthqEGClT3_2DocjYRTE0ZN2svEmcIKDwhSeXVJbM6OPNFyX8oIQTGY7w/s1600/misty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1183" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuzNF81mC075FPs82qAENsy2hpIQfr8APG6ZEinpMge-e3xF_GMS9yn-7ZeAB610maST6s9ofcv401YgON7NMthqEGClT3_2DocjYRTE0ZN2svEmcIKDwhSeXVJbM6OPNFyX8oIQTGY7w/s640/misty.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So, I need to explore all of this in more detail with you, but I guess this is a bit of a teaser at this stage.<br />
<br />
I am currently working on the next <i>Olivia's Secret Scribbles</i>, AND the next <i>Ella Diaries</i> books (at the same time!) so I am back in the thick of things with my current workload. Let's see if I can share some of the madness here as I work through my deadlines and dream of my personal creative pursuits!<br />
<br />
Until next time. x<br />
<br />
<br />Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-87788562100639500042018-08-10T20:43:00.000+10:002018-08-13T09:15:22.768+10:00Hooray for Goulburn!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYWOEj7se6QmDEdNxsQMEVHeS7IqoEXmX10-OCrXNuL3ZsoUxmJeZUX2ckN5FUKAQ1VV65gGNO-Qr8qQDkj-aTPhHFHLEfrsWy1rKcPojoX6tGJ2xBklZTUfhgN_e9tEKFnxQRJAttg8/s1600/country+style.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1417" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYWOEj7se6QmDEdNxsQMEVHeS7IqoEXmX10-OCrXNuL3ZsoUxmJeZUX2ckN5FUKAQ1VV65gGNO-Qr8qQDkj-aTPhHFHLEfrsWy1rKcPojoX6tGJ2xBklZTUfhgN_e9tEKFnxQRJAttg8/s640/country+style.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Part of the journey that I have been on for the past couple of years, has included finding peace with where I live. I have spent many years lamenting all the things that I felt were lacking here. It was quite a culture shock after all those years in Melbourne!<br />
<br />
But then I began to look at things from a different perspective. I began to see opportunities to <i><u>contribute</u></i> to the community and to support all of the wonderful things that are happening here in Goulburn. I feel proud to be part of this growing community and there are so many exciting developments on the horizon.<br />
<br />
So, it was quite an honour to take up the opportunity to publicly declare my passion for this town, through an article in the current edition of COUNTRY STYLE MAGAZINE (August 2018 edition.) This magazine features several double page spreads on Goulburn and I am thrilled to make an appearance in it!<br />
<br />
Over the years I have been able to contribute to several wonderful projects throughout the town including:<br />
<br />
Creating the artwork for THIS awesome van.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhFLCIsX8qHRJckX-wWKRPBJmO5jKau-HBlx-pZnNTmbNjiuLxBBiNwQ5YdcYY6pm09S8l8SIKeFT7fdRodgRdjbky4BZss6pzA8O_9AkodCQCF3kfdp8GMKu2A7465JRZ1WDgg1NaPA/s1600/VAN+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="1136" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhFLCIsX8qHRJckX-wWKRPBJmO5jKau-HBlx-pZnNTmbNjiuLxBBiNwQ5YdcYY6pm09S8l8SIKeFT7fdRodgRdjbky4BZss6pzA8O_9AkodCQCF3kfdp8GMKu2A7465JRZ1WDgg1NaPA/s640/VAN+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It's our mobile Information Centre, and it continues to tour around, promoting Goulburn life.<br />
<br />
And creating THIS wonderful mural in the local library:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRmo25ZJ5ZGarc3hFz97_VVOz76Y_6SuNkDV04XVLhWiCcbRCSElEkm4Z1Y35GNv_RPWiWBs-UJDcvNZ_HLp_M3hb7w42WBpSIIeMIj6ykff0vD79UDcAw-PHAUK4kToMZbR3QCIjM_o/s1600/mural+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRmo25ZJ5ZGarc3hFz97_VVOz76Y_6SuNkDV04XVLhWiCcbRCSElEkm4Z1Y35GNv_RPWiWBs-UJDcvNZ_HLp_M3hb7w42WBpSIIeMIj6ykff0vD79UDcAw-PHAUK4kToMZbR3QCIjM_o/s640/mural+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And presenting at our first ever <i>Goulburn Readers and Writers Festival</i> back in 2016.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJjIxc3orZR2Zo0tcH8kQ1JtlmtK1ndPyJu85wbP1nVvGjeOSNfPdKZ-xlsex0wxEtvQ5IQixdphqOUYyL6W8MmqqiT74zKmt6rq4PxN63wpCizmNKB3MvrD2t1aT-wEhJXh3RSJTWSY/s1600/writers+festival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="914" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJjIxc3orZR2Zo0tcH8kQ1JtlmtK1ndPyJu85wbP1nVvGjeOSNfPdKZ-xlsex0wxEtvQ5IQixdphqOUYyL6W8MmqqiT74zKmt6rq4PxN63wpCizmNKB3MvrD2t1aT-wEhJXh3RSJTWSY/s640/writers+festival.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
More recently, I have discovered <a href="https://collectivegoulburn.com.au/community/harvest-cafe/">The Collective</a>. It's a wonderful shared workspace that offers you the opportunity to hire a work desk/space on a casual basis. I work from home, so spending the odd day working at The Collective is a refreshing change of scene. It makes me feel a bit more professional too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwMkmRXu8UUMmFng79PBA0UpbbmFCJb06bCcCo50vJgd0BFYivXahDjsGcIiR0dWVkig7rzFhI_t0aQO3WT_DSD2LQDyVsU0EDqGxRzWm0kzyVOPDFDXgrf-UVgvQAB0GGkGtP75RQRE/s1600/the+collective.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwMkmRXu8UUMmFng79PBA0UpbbmFCJb06bCcCo50vJgd0BFYivXahDjsGcIiR0dWVkig7rzFhI_t0aQO3WT_DSD2LQDyVsU0EDqGxRzWm0kzyVOPDFDXgrf-UVgvQAB0GGkGtP75RQRE/s640/the+collective.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There are so many wonderful things happening in this town, and I have so many more ideas for projects I would love to get off the ground locally. But for now. It's a case of getting on with what I do best. Illustrating. x<br />
<br />Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-59988047168538182992018-08-06T21:47:00.000+10:002018-08-06T21:47:45.687+10:00GUESS WHO'S BACK!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasa-rv-QBl1AMUeYEXPubDQ1PmSmZD3folpDP1is41hKEQz6tLuF8sDRNDXeuMwL-aAFOG4yWZ5_0Q-r8qd9RGWXYqpEcVwvMUEjdvIpRfYueGljSBZt2d1M1-1NgpiQyt8aIbn4rFWo/s1600/coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1417" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasa-rv-QBl1AMUeYEXPubDQ1PmSmZD3folpDP1is41hKEQz6tLuF8sDRNDXeuMwL-aAFOG4yWZ5_0Q-r8qd9RGWXYqpEcVwvMUEjdvIpRfYueGljSBZt2d1M1-1NgpiQyt8aIbn4rFWo/s640/coffee.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Hello! Goodness me. It's been so long since I posted here that I am not sure I even remember how! Talk about rusty! Well, this is a simple little post to let you know that I AM BACK. The last few years have been so hectic that the only way I could cope was to get rid of all non-essentials - which included this blog.<br />
<br />
But I miss it. I have been wanting to share so much here, but have held off in the hope of creating a brand new and shiny website to impress you all with. Well, another reality check made me realise that I don't have time for that either! So here I am. Back to basics and slightly updated with a fresh new look!<br />
<br />
So, thanks for stopping by and I look forward to sharing more regular updates from now on. YAY! xDanielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-61618311235364252152016-12-06T11:00:00.000+11:002016-12-06T11:01:02.144+11:00SO MUCH NEWS, SO LITTLE TIME TO SHARE IT!!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Another incredible few months have just unfolded. In fact, I would go so far as to say there were some career highlights sprinkled in there. If only I had some sort of Social Media Manager, who could keep up with that side of things for me! So much news and so little time to share it all...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Anyway here's a snap shot to get you up to speed:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let's begin with an I never imagined would appear here....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxHramTwxy9OunfewwjY3Qj2z44PCqwVKHCDbxkcA0cyGzZfKstzxxMChplqY7nskf0Q32ZykQTWBE6dx_wwwxFL5np0ioTTpISRyIwZwCwSzkyxmplN_yXcWJgH_lr0rLvoMZqs5Uf8/s1600/radio+canberra+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxHramTwxy9OunfewwjY3Qj2z44PCqwVKHCDbxkcA0cyGzZfKstzxxMChplqY7nskf0Q32ZykQTWBE6dx_wwwxFL5np0ioTTpISRyIwZwCwSzkyxmplN_yXcWJgH_lr0rLvoMZqs5Uf8/s640/radio+canberra+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I think it would come as no surprise for you to learn that I am a pretty private person, and somewhat introverted, so can you imagine the effort it took for me to put myself out there and attend a radio interview?! Well, it took my participation in the local <b><i><a href="http://www.goulburnpost.com.au/story/4290445/goulburns-first-reader-writer-festival/#slide=4">Goulburn Readers Writers Festival</a> </i></b>last month to inspire me to get out from behind my desk and do a little promoting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, with some wonderful support and encouragement from my gorgeous husband I decided it was time to 'feel the fear, and DO it anyway'!! (My current motto!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, for anyone who missed it, here's the link to my interview:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">http://www.abc.net.au/radio/canberra/programs/sundaybrunch/danielle-mcdonald-illustrator/8002144</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A GREAT BIG THANK YOU to the gorgeous <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/profiles/content/s3305879.htm">Lish Fejer</a> at 666 ABC Radio Canberra for making me feel so relaxed and comfortable behind the microphone.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Following on from this excitement, I took my whole family on holiday to the Blue Mountains so that I could attend the <a href="http://www.koalansw.org.au/">KOALA AWARDS</a>! I was so excited to have this <i><a href="http://www.ellaandolivia.com.au/#/home">Ella and Olivia</a></i> book nominated for an award:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EAb6NBLuHlfEZOJOVEnjQeU33bnQbNrkahgsDBH17BdJOf7YxvpOlVJ6sdZS9EafUBNyXgFS2dMGX3JY5Vc-r8w0rOKYPB67Frk3UL2X5ZHzLgAFFulahu0336Sy0Wv3a7v_MPQ4jnk/s1600/e+and+o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EAb6NBLuHlfEZOJOVEnjQeU33bnQbNrkahgsDBH17BdJOf7YxvpOlVJ6sdZS9EafUBNyXgFS2dMGX3JY5Vc-r8w0rOKYPB67Frk3UL2X5ZHzLgAFFulahu0336Sy0Wv3a7v_MPQ4jnk/s640/e+and+o.jpg" width="412" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While we may have come home empty handed, my heart was full of pride at seeing my name listed among such incredible talent.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Afa67BC33UAVsTAY-Pb0xfEORg8S2Iv2VagHfo6XO3vZsvOQah_cA3Qe9wKeG_lnsfkmxigNfxhdB3DsBM20PJyVSMKw_xG_sB60yQlaVcCJPcr988MpF79ZkHvGhwuNNTOQHG3i75I/s1600/koala+awards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Afa67BC33UAVsTAY-Pb0xfEORg8S2Iv2VagHfo6XO3vZsvOQah_cA3Qe9wKeG_lnsfkmxigNfxhdB3DsBM20PJyVSMKw_xG_sB60yQlaVcCJPcr988MpF79ZkHvGhwuNNTOQHG3i75I/s640/koala+awards.jpg" width="372" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was also finally able to meet the lovely Author of the Ella and Olivia books <a href="http://yvetteposh.com/">Yvette Poshoglian</a>. We have worked together for many years, but have never actually met! Needless to say she was (AND IS) delightful! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I came away from this wonderful event, buzzing with the realisation that I need to connect more with the Book Publishing industry. I feel like I have finally earned my place in this group and it's time to network a bit more. I guess that's one of the great things about social media. I have now come to terms with the power of networking, and am excited to connect with so many talented people.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was also the 30th Anniversary of the Koala Awards, and we were invited to contribute a Koala illustration to mark this special occasion. Here's my entry:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTayRnEusEfbbD0HJ78meIj0azYK996O8WqNhvk3z3P1W8If7bXtAD4lGz1nSv7dNOHuawJJNKIvjL586ouqb7tfxI8XEWoq9sbKXN5AeX5uM25j8eBZUFj-3MJkGwiLut7o-fp6UhtNM/s1600/koala+danielle+mcdonald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTayRnEusEfbbD0HJ78meIj0azYK996O8WqNhvk3z3P1W8If7bXtAD4lGz1nSv7dNOHuawJJNKIvjL586ouqb7tfxI8XEWoq9sbKXN5AeX5uM25j8eBZUFj-3MJkGwiLut7o-fp6UhtNM/s400/koala+danielle+mcdonald.jpg" width="282" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, now that I was well and truly out from behind my desk, and into the spotlight a little bit, I must admit it washed away all of the nerves in the lead up to the <a href="http://www.goulburnpost.com.au/story/4290445/goulburns-first-reader-writer-festival/#slide=4">Goulburn Readers Writers Festival</a>. I felt a little more comfortable that after all of these years, I finally do have some experience and knowledge</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">worth sharing.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I kicked things off with reading Sheep On A Beach in the Courtyard, and moved on to a Panel Discussion with <a href="http://www.taniamccartney.com/">Tania McCartney</a> and <a href="http://georgeivanoff.com.au/">George Ivanof</a>f, hosted by local identity <a href="http://www.australiaday.org.au/ambassadors/view/?id=257">Warren Brown</a>.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7siAPy_RwSmBLYtgNdjT5w6NmqHEa9qoZiSBH3MLwxUDegLL4HSBXdHzxysfCbM_GeZ2i_01dSAXnhC_QoYkH1fT7Wk5AVLcJzSDkrtAxonUYNVqw5CQtmWXg_oCPu-8IPqAkNAdiN0/s1600/grwf+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="481" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7siAPy_RwSmBLYtgNdjT5w6NmqHEa9qoZiSBH3MLwxUDegLL4HSBXdHzxysfCbM_GeZ2i_01dSAXnhC_QoYkH1fT7Wk5AVLcJzSDkrtAxonUYNVqw5CQtmWXg_oCPu-8IPqAkNAdiN0/s640/grwf+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then I was flying solo with my own presentation, which showed a little insight into the processes involved in bringing books through the creative stages and into reality.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I learned soooo much from this incredible experience, and made some more wonderful connections. I just have to say that I was really impressed with how visiting Author <a href="http://georgeivanoff.com.au/">George Ivanoff</a> shared his experience of our town and the festival. Check out his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/givanoff1">facebook</a> pages and <a href="http://georgeivanoff.com.au/2016/11/14/goulburn-reader-writer-festival-2016/">website</a>, for a true insight into this remarkable weekend!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I will leave you with one more little teaser....</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My Top Secret Project has finally been completed and I hope to reveal all in the next week or so...can you guess what it is?!!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyFyZn9VgzsZ7Wo3_-hEWWJvByILe6S37_Sa8LznbP-UOgROz20W1i9vWm6T3IJyzSaulMzIr78VHeK55yhMG-TkLH-9JS4siyskI3mKK4Kw60xBeksyG0RtBnNzxATREOyxxRxr8XPo/s1600/teaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyFyZn9VgzsZ7Wo3_-hEWWJvByILe6S37_Sa8LznbP-UOgROz20W1i9vWm6T3IJyzSaulMzIr78VHeK55yhMG-TkLH-9JS4siyskI3mKK4Kw60xBeksyG0RtBnNzxATREOyxxRxr8XPo/s640/teaser.jpg" width="470" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-59372892617977061622016-10-21T09:31:00.000+11:002016-10-21T09:31:41.278+11:00Awards and Festival abound!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So it looks like I may be rounding the year off by coming out of hiding. I am actually a bit of an introvert and am quite happy hiding behind this blog in the quiet belief that no-one reads it anyway! I am not a fan of Facebook as I don't really need to know how many people saw my posts or chose to comment, or 'like' it. I am far more comfortable over here, just chatting away to myself!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, what could possibly drag me from my comfort zone? Well a few things actually.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Firstly - I am up for THREE (!!) awards at the moment! I am delighted that they are all 'people's choice awards', so they have all been nominated and shortlisted by the readers!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here they are:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.ellaandolivia.com.au/#/the-books">ELLA AND OLIVIA</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>TWO</b>(!) nominations for this book:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitw7gnafYcdWx36trZwvFhy-ja_hZwnAyfXGs_HgU4tt68ohBYrD-KQReisMzsUqH7npj4XRBd1COXOYc5mSZ2nvNhWk3GSJSBV4KaraxxFGf3QuvU_F4G3pBvn1aRiezTOwizcqia4Bg/s1600/sports+carnival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitw7gnafYcdWx36trZwvFhy-ja_hZwnAyfXGs_HgU4tt68ohBYrD-KQReisMzsUqH7npj4XRBd1COXOYc5mSZ2nvNhWk3GSJSBV4KaraxxFGf3QuvU_F4G3pBvn1aRiezTOwizcqia4Bg/s640/sports+carnival.jpg" width="412" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One is the <a href="http://yabba.org.au/2016-shortlist/">YABBA</a> awards. (Check out the details <a href="http://yabba.org.au/2016-shortlist/">here</a>.) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The second one is <a href="http://www.koalansw.org.au/">THE KOALA AWARDS</a>. (Details <a href="http://www.koalansw.org.au/">here</a>.) </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am a bit excited by this one, as I will actually be able to attend the ceremony where I will finally be able to meet the lovely Author of the <i><a href="http://www.ellaandolivia.com.au/#/home">Ella and Olivia</a></i> books <a href="http://yvetteposh.com/">Yvette Poshoglian</a> for the <i>FIRST TIME</i>! Can you believe that after all of these years of working together on these beautiful books, we have never actually met!! I am VERY excited about it! I am also really looking forward to meeting some of the other Authors & Illustrators, along with the lovely people at <a href="http://www.koalansw.org.au/">Koala</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries"><br /></a></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">ELLA DIARIES</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am delighted to say that <a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">ELLA DIARIES</a> is up for an award!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdkOK9c1efJPgzgsYLPRR4IEINq5lm8QEQy8tA9d-ZX_VQh_aWxUWbW5-uKre4TQiRrmIcaoOqzG1_5zfM8HUNu0K4SB_ox05Nl2Pwn_-cl8hDb6CjxfgPPXy4TNXzoNR2HknR6agKfs/s1600/double-dare-you.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdkOK9c1efJPgzgsYLPRR4IEINq5lm8QEQy8tA9d-ZX_VQh_aWxUWbW5-uKre4TQiRrmIcaoOqzG1_5zfM8HUNu0K4SB_ox05Nl2Pwn_-cl8hDb6CjxfgPPXy4TNXzoNR2HknR6agKfs/s640/double-dare-you.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries"><br /></a></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">Ella Diaries #1 Double Dare You</a></i>, has been shortlisted in the <a href="http://www.totalgirl.com.au/gallery/extra-fun-stuff-total-girl-toy-of-the-year-awards-2016">TOTAL GIRL MAGAZINE TOY OF THE YEAR AWARDS</a> (Book Category!) These books are beautifully written by <a href="http://www.meredithcostain.com/index.php/books">Meredith Costain</a>, and I am very excited share this nomination with her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have never been nominated for an award for my work before, so I am really excited just to have been selected! (But I will be crossing my fingers anyway!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhldvUqOMK0pt-7qzekHhoAX4WSBOducB3qVDSe2A-_M8jz78j5Mtn32IhTUvKLUuahquLmHdVH_Bc_nosgUNY6U8xwinQi5DPP1tIbnaHmysuQK-WnLFddyRE3ijmYfzJaj3_P2xZLRI/s1600/Goulburn+Writers+Festival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhldvUqOMK0pt-7qzekHhoAX4WSBOducB3qVDSe2A-_M8jz78j5Mtn32IhTUvKLUuahquLmHdVH_Bc_nosgUNY6U8xwinQi5DPP1tIbnaHmysuQK-WnLFddyRE3ijmYfzJaj3_P2xZLRI/s640/Goulburn+Writers+Festival.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The next exciting event that I will be participating in is <a href="http://www.stlc.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On/Goulburn-Reader-Writer-Festival.aspx">THE GOULBURN WRITERS FESTIVAL</a> coming up in November. This is a local event for me and I am really excited to finally have put my hand up to contribute (in some small way) to the community. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have been laying low a bit here since we moved, but I really feel ready to get out there and start sharing my skill and experience a bit. What better way to kick things off than via our fabulous <a href="http://www.stlc.nsw.gov.au/">Library</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I will share more detail soon (including some possible radio interviews!) but for now, you can check out the program <a href="http://www.stlc.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On/Goulburn-Reader-Writer-Festival.aspx">here</a>. It's jam packed full of fabulous events with lots of Author and Illustrators from various genres, so put it on your Calendar and start planning NOW! There are LOTS of FREE events, but bookings are essential so GO FOR IT!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I still have one more TOP SECRET project up my sleeve that I am waiting to reveal, but production has been slightly delayed, so it's a waiting game at the moment! Stay tuned for updates!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Phew! That was a long one! I hope it makes up for my long absence a bit! x</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-28839680356413610822016-09-07T19:53:00.001+10:002016-09-07T19:53:41.564+10:00Another JAM PACKED month!<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSbq3qZHeRuCm1v9D5keytNPqFv9-KPBM5zRNY7Qy6i7NSUnodIWCmSySspvoTnLm6uryRpWEojnc9YElAPUPz15sbEvupfSXAWYFM4xq3yyoz9cvcczveuudiHfRXIxOhFqc0mMnG0s/s1600/Bookshop+TRACY+LACY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSbq3qZHeRuCm1v9D5keytNPqFv9-KPBM5zRNY7Qy6i7NSUnodIWCmSySspvoTnLm6uryRpWEojnc9YElAPUPz15sbEvupfSXAWYFM4xq3yyoz9cvcczveuudiHfRXIxOhFqc0mMnG0s/s640/Bookshop+TRACY+LACY.jpg" width="358" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I really don't know how people find the time for all this social media stuff! I am flat out just keeping up with my workload at the moment.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But I did want to share this pic of <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtbPuP29O9Y">Tracy Lacy</a></i> officially out in stores! This was the first time I have seen it in a shop and I still get such a buzz out of seeing my work out there in the 'real world'! </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was also lucky enough to meet the wonderful Author of this book </span><a href="http://tanialacy.com/portfolio/tania-lacy-is-completely-coo-coo-bananas/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tania Lacy</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, at a recent luncheon with my Publishers. Tania is a delight and I would have loved to have spent more time with her. It was also exciting meet some other members of the Scholastic team in person (some of them for the first time!!) I came away feeling really </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"loved"</i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> and so excited to be a part of such a great team!!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, as usual, there is a LOT going on behind the scenes. New illustration opportunities, exciting (secret) projects signed off and finished, new contracts officially signed, another full colour picture book done and dusted....and of course my usual collection of fabulous Book Series on the go....there's even a potential Writers (Illustrators!) Festival participation on the horizon for me...oh, and my first nomination for an award!!!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will share more details when I can.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am one lucky girl! x</span></span></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-84533961983778011032016-08-08T19:07:00.001+10:002016-08-08T19:07:37.312+10:00Complete overload!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am a bit lost tonight - not sure what to do with myself. I have just finished a mammoth (secret) project and am completely exhausted. I should be moving onto the next project as I am running a bit behind, but I just can't face it. I have decided to give my poor brain a rest and just relax tonight.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQt2jQHyUo0JE3NIomtj_VqKXBHwOOUDo-7TjK7hoPY9F230l4YyJLixJqNU1XYi6kn5WhzFRXpkpbjDgETve27k2s3WpcUsoMFHhIj-yN4eo-_2b6d8XHk1ZwY1eJCI9teB6nLOW6cg/s1600/food+sew+drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQt2jQHyUo0JE3NIomtj_VqKXBHwOOUDo-7TjK7hoPY9F230l4YyJLixJqNU1XYi6kn5WhzFRXpkpbjDgETve27k2s3WpcUsoMFHhIj-yN4eo-_2b6d8XHk1ZwY1eJCI9teB6nLOW6cg/s640/food+sew+drink.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So it's chocolate pudding (with LOTS of cream!), a glass of red wine, and a bit of hand sewing. Such a simple pleasure. </span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-37650210540725265582016-07-31T10:42:00.001+10:002016-07-31T10:42:39.798+10:00My little artist<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbbdqYktZPvZviIDw5Mv-AjVJvQRq067egI1HujYQUgRj_zfGsNEvFX4hAl2WyOsPNAN7m_h1m3fBhXUfZN9D1BnEUGHoIY06XxWMZi2pG2gEhGt5zL9sb7sJaKkNLn2wvrTd4rOXJbE/s1600/a1+full+art+2p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbbdqYktZPvZviIDw5Mv-AjVJvQRq067egI1HujYQUgRj_zfGsNEvFX4hAl2WyOsPNAN7m_h1m3fBhXUfZN9D1BnEUGHoIY06XxWMZi2pG2gEhGt5zL9sb7sJaKkNLn2wvrTd4rOXJbE/s400/a1+full+art+2p.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How cute is this?! My 5 year old daughter (nearly 6!) created this by tracing one of my sketches in Illustrator!! She often sits beside me watching me work and really wanted to to try it herself!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She created this using layers and various brush sizes and colours! I think it's wonderful!</span></span></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-67048757160515138462016-07-30T08:20:00.000+10:002016-07-30T08:20:20.528+10:00Dropping the ball this week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivPQOQ9AFahSa9NbrgoffznZA8d_5wyusN0FsMaCHvwhuWzYsUgvx6XNaqibcoOFKPxf2af4o8IuIKms4CtECRBeQrBZa4houn7B9uO-hW1m09g8e3pzdmbVZyrKNv9Hqd0bjGeZOy4oI/s1600/cafe+roses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivPQOQ9AFahSa9NbrgoffznZA8d_5wyusN0FsMaCHvwhuWzYsUgvx6XNaqibcoOFKPxf2af4o8IuIKms4CtECRBeQrBZa4houn7B9uO-hW1m09g8e3pzdmbVZyrKNv9Hqd0bjGeZOy4oI/s640/cafe+roses.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span id="goog_1913229893"></span><span id="goog_1913229894"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here we are chilling out while we await a breakfast treat earlier this week. This followed a rather strange and somewhat embarrassing meeting this week!</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have always prided myself on maintaining a professional approach to my illustration work, but since I had kids I have had to cut myself some slack!! This was illustrated beautifully this week, following a meeting for a new project I am working on!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am running a bit behind with my work schedule at the moment and in an attempt to try to make up some ground, I stayed up until 3am the night before my meeting to try to pull together something worth presenting. (Needless to say this was a bit of a waste of time as it was really only a 'rough' concept that I ended up producing.) I woke early to print out my ideas for my meeting, only to find that I could not get my printer to work!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Argh...I spent way too long trying to resolve it and ran out of time to do anything else. I had just returned from a full session of heavy work at my parents the day before, so basically had not showered or brushed my teeth for two days....I found some chewing gum in the car on the way there, and then realised I had forgotten to throw the gum away before the meeting...(another pet hate of mine!!) </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I also had to bring my girls with me to the meeting, who in my mad dash to get out the door, basically ended up wearing there pyjamas under some warm jackets....None of us had brushed our hair, but managed to tie it back in pony tails......fortunately, they are such good girls and quietly amused themselves throughout the meeting.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I had to bring my laptop along, (as I could not print my roughs) so I decided to bring along my sketches as a back up, only to have the dog chew the corners of my presentation folio!!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have never been more embarrassed or flustered in a meeting, and since I had not had much sleep I ended up just rambling my way through the meeting - talking too much and not making much sense!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To their credit, the people in the meeting were very understanding and sympathetic, so if you are reading this ladies, I thank you again for your patience.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I promise to be more organised for next week's catch up....oh, and my darling girls....lets do breakfast BEFORE the meeting this time. You are so patient and understanding. I love you both. Such gorgeous girls.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I ended this crazy week with the discovery of this lovely magazine today. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAc56eSisDRvQIfuZzJb1vcqU7hljEZxO98p-7FcUv7XQdD1OmxbTsSJIMEdoYFSuQBbdad_-Ue0YOlDIRiiNZGUWKWfEFIq6z-lUNAuh9yNohZwEOrAaPj4oU8jMrJAUJOC_uFiCAO2E/s1600/Project+Calm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAc56eSisDRvQIfuZzJb1vcqU7hljEZxO98p-7FcUv7XQdD1OmxbTsSJIMEdoYFSuQBbdad_-Ue0YOlDIRiiNZGUWKWfEFIq6z-lUNAuh9yNohZwEOrAaPj4oU8jMrJAUJOC_uFiCAO2E/s640/Project+Calm.jpg" width="514" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just what I needed. Check it out if you happen to spot it on the shelves somewhere. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Oh, and I nearly forgot....the lovely Author of <b><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">Ella Diaries</a></b> (<a href="http://www.meredithcostain.com/">Meredith Costain</a>) informed me that our new release <a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">Ella Diaries </a>'Worst Camp Ever' made the Top <a href="http://www.readings.com.au/news/our-childrens-and-ya-top-ten-bestsellers-of-the-week-42">10 best sellers </a>at <a href="http://www.readings.com.au/news/our-childrens-and-ya-top-ten-bestsellers-of-the-week-42">Readings Bookstore</a> this week. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjReZZbLi5JNsK_90cmucjGII6UT0oeoz6QUFWdrv3omZ9nVGjXoMgHeegFpMHcoL3rfsFg8LFb-6wNhmL_yVJJLOEAd3ulpNbnZ4nLrS-6ULLwFhxhiDh8TmDlpY6T_xPaf2BclVb5tyA/s1600/ella+diaries+worst+camp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjReZZbLi5JNsK_90cmucjGII6UT0oeoz6QUFWdrv3omZ9nVGjXoMgHeegFpMHcoL3rfsFg8LFb-6wNhmL_yVJJLOEAd3ulpNbnZ4nLrS-6ULLwFhxhiDh8TmDlpY6T_xPaf2BclVb5tyA/s640/ella+diaries+worst+camp.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Very exciting news. Go grab yourself a copy today! x</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-63577200045268931472016-07-24T11:51:00.000+10:002016-07-24T11:51:35.268+10:00Tracy Lacy - the Tadpole?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxf0b46q3EQuxJysw9JSR56wKutBsaZ3hO1tws5U2glHuapTbKcoUdvzhO0KLvtoItxk71BENFiTDFxE7cawmPnEINmfb-8FS9i9njIMXfq-gUIA5mFDrVN9MxgIRdwQwpdiFqv5hKoGI/s1600/tadpole+tracy+lacy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxf0b46q3EQuxJysw9JSR56wKutBsaZ3hO1tws5U2glHuapTbKcoUdvzhO0KLvtoItxk71BENFiTDFxE7cawmPnEINmfb-8FS9i9njIMXfq-gUIA5mFDrVN9MxgIRdwQwpdiFqv5hKoGI/s640/tadpole+tracy+lacy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a bit of <i><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtbPuP29O9Y">Tracy Lacy</a></b></i> silliness for you today! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is my daughters' favourite picture of <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtbPuP29O9Y">Tracy Lacy</a> </i>(the tadpole from the back cover artwork), so with some help from MY Mum, they made this cute little version of her! Makes me smile!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd8q1nuxwbK-dj-9Z-qdLfSsuYOQOHVAEeVbeJHfZFR1m6KgAueIEhyphenhyphen7LfswhDoszoCSPMCwIwjYobPyAoc5oMYyvvJDKo5bIp2QFJ7HVODqQrP0lldKjhJTSOo_d1cbdNm08CoxbcQs/s1600/tadpole+tracy+lacy+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd8q1nuxwbK-dj-9Z-qdLfSsuYOQOHVAEeVbeJHfZFR1m6KgAueIEhyphenhyphen7LfswhDoszoCSPMCwIwjYobPyAoc5oMYyvvJDKo5bIp2QFJ7HVODqQrP0lldKjhJTSOo_d1cbdNm08CoxbcQs/s640/tadpole+tracy+lacy+3.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So not much going on at the moment, except for busy, busy, busy....I have completed the next <b><i><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">Ella Diaries</a></i></b> book, along with another full colour (still secret) book, and am just finalising the artwork for another <b>TOP SECRET</b> project I have on the go!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then there's the new contract I am finalising for another <b>BRAND NEW</b> series due for release next year!! ... Talk about BUSY!! I am loving it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the meantime, both the Netherlands and Russia have already extended their contracts for the <b><i><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">Ella Diaries</a></i></b> books! Phew. Such exciting times. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next on the list is more beautiful books for <b><i><a href="http://littlelearnersloveliteracy.com.au/">Little Learners Love Literacy</a></i></b>....No time for a breather just yet!</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-66699001942401735542016-07-09T17:21:00.000+10:002016-07-09T17:21:14.875+10:00Screen Printing Joy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wonderful afternoon of screen printing at our local <a href="http://www.goulburnregionalartgallery.com.au/site/luke_chiswell_-_screen_printing_1-0-1.php">Goulburn Regional Art Gallery</a>. Great fun. Great company. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I could really see myself getting into it on a more regular basis....if only I had more time!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5rdWnAar1kbZOF3YZSTVO5PEWmJTGfCBdxM6xrwTGINekVhAvuXWIR3e-pTVIiFbUSubbiZvrhZhyL0FcsrirEkT9qcwVXxpS58Zwpv5DDJtxJkrI9THgTnuBZXKoqr29axnCh6NpJs/s1600/screen+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5rdWnAar1kbZOF3YZSTVO5PEWmJTGfCBdxM6xrwTGINekVhAvuXWIR3e-pTVIiFbUSubbiZvrhZhyL0FcsrirEkT9qcwVXxpS58Zwpv5DDJtxJkrI9THgTnuBZXKoqr29axnCh6NpJs/s640/screen+1.jpg" width="434" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7CLehXNKyE_v3mwfRCWjhqm8KeE9s61bP61nabWmTQvqT6cZYUXioZVXDh8_Jwwsdv0oCo-rR2Lo3yJhOhKXLJgINOld-5eO7hgCmtvzcKq7R6UWCpRtLjpLoYGSd9rSd1AMVNqYOcI/s1600/screen+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7CLehXNKyE_v3mwfRCWjhqm8KeE9s61bP61nabWmTQvqT6cZYUXioZVXDh8_Jwwsdv0oCo-rR2Lo3yJhOhKXLJgINOld-5eO7hgCmtvzcKq7R6UWCpRtLjpLoYGSd9rSd1AMVNqYOcI/s640/screen+2.jpg" width="404" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So for now, it's back to reality. Am topped up with caffeine and ready to put in a big night(s) of catch up work....if only we did not ''have to" sleep, I could get so much more out of my days!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A special thank you to my gorgeous husband for his wonderful help and support - otherwise NOTHING would get done! x</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-32888537351251885852016-07-07T17:52:00.001+10:002016-07-07T17:52:57.997+10:00So many NEW BOOKS arriving!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Checking the mail these days has become pretty exciting, with lots of new copies of my books arriving. Check out the first Foreign Language versions of <i><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com.au/Search/?menuId=111&parentId=101&SearchBy=Ella-Diaries">Ella Diaries</a></i> - in Dutch!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8-y3Cs9_ggAFgDNIfaGiQu4pdFonazbradqeIFGeWqn5rNS85LGLoaksH_xzTTjOj96zyYSNfhx1xZFYqeX_3wPchB4WX9tmOJyT6_wofL9HToW8G2qgMOAiLK0lprFGRPxjVOzbLZ8/s1600/Dutch+Ella+Diaries+lo+res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8-y3Cs9_ggAFgDNIfaGiQu4pdFonazbradqeIFGeWqn5rNS85LGLoaksH_xzTTjOj96zyYSNfhx1xZFYqeX_3wPchB4WX9tmOJyT6_wofL9HToW8G2qgMOAiLK0lprFGRPxjVOzbLZ8/s640/Dutch+Ella+Diaries+lo+res.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am so excited about this. I can't stop looking at them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a few more newbies that have arrived in the last few weeks:</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDm9xOb0_hz3f7W_x__qMHWvnkZT997tCVTpwAOVpRBA_lIvyy4ak2lGDr8weYEx3TYcF9R6Eusea1EgI-9cSoTxiPl8OtysGnPAV9ZLRzhM2Rd-Qcxw3z1o-jSfFzlHPrtx8F283v68/s1600/ella+diaries+worst+camp+lo+res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDm9xOb0_hz3f7W_x__qMHWvnkZT997tCVTpwAOVpRBA_lIvyy4ak2lGDr8weYEx3TYcF9R6Eusea1EgI-9cSoTxiPl8OtysGnPAV9ZLRzhM2Rd-Qcxw3z1o-jSfFzlHPrtx8F283v68/s640/ella+diaries+worst+camp+lo+res.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjiz6Fs9z1-kgnYjGharR3HrC6eHwLXNaj2iY9om5c0YzOJK4WiLRiBTNcMYt0xcKg-97WP6ePuSXEg5Zs9K2ir3FZ5RTS7Ux9Wy4lLSrJXFHUZs13mVCjOoPeH5JPGAa09n3F9SxKyQ/s1600/e+and+o+8+books+LO+RES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjiz6Fs9z1-kgnYjGharR3HrC6eHwLXNaj2iY9om5c0YzOJK4WiLRiBTNcMYt0xcKg-97WP6ePuSXEg5Zs9K2ir3FZ5RTS7Ux9Wy4lLSrJXFHUZs13mVCjOoPeH5JPGAa09n3F9SxKyQ/s640/e+and+o+8+books+LO+RES.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunvI0nTWNagfb_jCBerGp0zkL6VKDg1k4aws8rMoe_JWQXybp7AiYcA3l1-FeJQC-fwSjSBzeFp1F5lbgB_H4TSUIApU1EvIZj88l90ZJD1BOj5MZ2sNg-GIzmVU_rIWMY20B5whYoa8/s1600/TRACY+LACY+lo+res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunvI0nTWNagfb_jCBerGp0zkL6VKDg1k4aws8rMoe_JWQXybp7AiYcA3l1-FeJQC-fwSjSBzeFp1F5lbgB_H4TSUIApU1EvIZj88l90ZJD1BOj5MZ2sNg-GIzmVU_rIWMY20B5whYoa8/s640/TRACY+LACY+lo+res.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There was a time in my career when I had a really hard time with the colour yellow...now I LOVE IT!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>NEW COMPUTER:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I guess you are sick of me talking about how busy I am, so I will skip that bit and let you know I have a beautiful, slick new computer! My last one was 10 years old and was getting a bit shaky, so I thought I had better upgrade before anything disastrous happened. I can't believe the difference in the new one. It's such a step up - particularly with the screen quality! No excuses now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>NEW PUPPY:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the home front, the cute little puppy is driving me nuts! It chews everything. It bites. It's harder to house train than a cat. It wakes us in the night, or cries if we lock it in a room to try to get some sleep!! I think we are ready for some puppy training!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>SCREEN PRINTING:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And just because I don't have enough on my plate, I have signed up for <a href="http://www.goulburnregionalartgallery.com.au/site/luke_chiswell_-_screen_printing_1-0-1.php">this</a> local screen printing class! I have been wanting to screen print for sooooo long. My husband even bought me all of the gear for my Birthday last year so that I could try it, but I just have not been able to make the time for it. I don't really have the time this weekend either, but it was just too good an opportunity to miss. Unfortunately I could not attend last weekend's session, but I did do some screen printing in my Uni days, so I have some idea how it works.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, I have some more work due tomorrow, so I had better get on with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Until next time....</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-4547744019680162502016-06-27T13:40:00.002+10:002016-06-27T13:40:46.326+10:00TRACY LACY IS COMPLETELY COO-COO BANANAS!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am a little too busy at the moment to write a proper post, or update Facebook, but I really wanted to at least share this link to my BRAND NEW BOOK! Yes - the "'<i>Secret one''</i> I have been desperate to share with you! I will share more detail when I get the chance but for now - HERE'S MY NEW BOOK!!..Written by the very clever and funny <a href="http://tanialacy.com/">Tania Lacy</a>. Enjoy. x</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/mtbPuP29O9Y/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mtbPuP29O9Y?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-25654096714381879742016-06-06T17:12:00.002+10:002016-06-06T17:12:27.739+10:00NEW PROJECTS, NEW BOOKS and A 'SURPRISE' SOMETHING 'NEW'!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So it seems I have my mojo back! This past week has been all about NEW things on the work front. I have had a couple of great meetings about a new and exciting project that I have underway - something brand new that I have never tried my hand at before, so I am looking forward to revealing a bit more once the project is complete.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the book front, I finally got my first look at a printed copy of one of my NEW and "Top Secret" books. I know this is a HUGE teaser, but I can't share too much just yet. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I CAN tell you that it's bigger (longer!) than my <i>Ella Diaries</i> books. (It was a massive undertaking and HEAPS of work, but I LOVED it!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsHM5ruAy9zgSuufAVOZYPBCtghZl6xj0d3xiiv207F-NFQbN08PMAoP4lAEyy5OCfm_t8OXLAMnlbVkS04ILwuvTxGcWTQPrHpNHyoJfjlzNwRchQcIaO2jsX7RSB724BOL6_OB5zz0/s1600/new+book+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsHM5ruAy9zgSuufAVOZYPBCtghZl6xj0d3xiiv207F-NFQbN08PMAoP4lAEyy5OCfm_t8OXLAMnlbVkS04ILwuvTxGcWTQPrHpNHyoJfjlzNwRchQcIaO2jsX7RSB724BOL6_OB5zz0/s640/new+book+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's <i>Ella Diaries</i> on the top, and my new book underneath! </span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I CAN also tell you that it's a wonderful and VERY funny story that was just a delight to illustrate. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I CAN tell you that I was very excited to work with this particular Author!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I CAN tell you that it's for an older audience, and that we already have an international contract for it, despite it only just hitting the printers!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I CAN also tell you that I am already working on the follow up book to this title! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I sense exciting times ahead for this one! It's currently due for release in September this year, so I will look forward to sharing more about it when I can.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was also excited to get my copies of the latest <i><a href="http://www.ellaandolivia.com.au/#/home">Ella and Olivia</a></i> books in the mail! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyUb_znwi3xrHYrEiBNLQHbru41nukAaJrDfBMHkj9QK69xDwfc0upuoraU9jPoyffX3gG6hlBQxy2hDE6bk3BJv5fZJ3_fxXiU46tNkxdMvRJyTyEKuN8OB97z7ViUrgDvkm9KtMGt8/s1600/e+and+o+zoo+rescue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyUb_znwi3xrHYrEiBNLQHbru41nukAaJrDfBMHkj9QK69xDwfc0upuoraU9jPoyffX3gG6hlBQxy2hDE6bk3BJv5fZJ3_fxXiU46tNkxdMvRJyTyEKuN8OB97z7ViUrgDvkm9KtMGt8/s640/e+and+o+zoo+rescue.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">This series has been a wonderful success and I am working on book number 18 in the series at the moment! I have also signed contracts for lots more </span><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Ella and Olivia</i><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"> books later in the year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Of course, I also have more <i>Ella Diaries</i> books in the wings and have just signed more contracts for new books in this series too!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's all I have time for today, but I have lots more to share - including a Brand New full colour Picture Book that I am currently working on, more books in the <a href="http://littlelearnersloveliteracyonline.com.au/">Little Learners</a> series, and even a few sewing projects that I have started in my 'spare' time!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Oh, and it wouldn't be a complete blog post from me without some farm news, so this time I wanted to introduce the latest addition to the farm.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM34sglss_5P6i1rnXuFxA97xkvxNFe_BxNZIjhQb5w0N8CVWG1KxgKDUy_6-V06F5zkCifSM7SRphl_hpAVlDpRB1pv0AhxQvfIDpGG5jQ6WeiuNTwgA4Tr3FWccaoIyisDKgHTXiulk/s1600/Marley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM34sglss_5P6i1rnXuFxA97xkvxNFe_BxNZIjhQb5w0N8CVWG1KxgKDUy_6-V06F5zkCifSM7SRphl_hpAVlDpRB1pv0AhxQvfIDpGG5jQ6WeiuNTwgA4Tr3FWccaoIyisDKgHTXiulk/s640/Marley.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Meet little Marley! Isn't she the sweetest? We have only had her for a few days so we are still settling into life with a puppy in the house, but we LOVE her! I have to try not to bombard you with too many pictures of her!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Anyway, have a great week and stay tuned for more news soon.</span><br />
Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-10001060096774509352016-05-14T19:52:00.001+10:002016-05-14T19:52:54.621+10:00A little bit of local life<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, we have just returned from a fabulous two weeks away in 'Sunny' Queensland. It was so wonderful just to focus on the family without any distractions - just what we needed after a pretty challenging start to the year for our family.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We were welcomed home with a Wintery cold snap (which was a bit of a shock to the system after such warm weather up North!)....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYztjJRr2hN5yhhQJ64y-YzDduOvY2Wf4Ub5SaBWSN_CjTjZdGEzQYZdmz3kmP73wPRG-d287-TzU9l86dtoFTGCmduPHLpv4Y80rChjbBI2AyKiG_s5kXxi_BhEdSHO13Xqqs4GjyFM/s1600/cold+snap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYztjJRr2hN5yhhQJ64y-YzDduOvY2Wf4Ub5SaBWSN_CjTjZdGEzQYZdmz3kmP73wPRG-d287-TzU9l86dtoFTGCmduPHLpv4Y80rChjbBI2AyKiG_s5kXxi_BhEdSHO13Xqqs4GjyFM/s1600/cold+snap.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">...along with some new additions to the farm!! </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpUSO08Ehm9tOYWw1-ih4BMtuuaCYD1CI7ZvCzyUHMSEOe2jMJcXEyMia2rm6fB4zr83AlhNg084sRwlojKLSEhbaaMXChggsf2viBNiAdDEhK4eUwaMhFXNko8rN1v79nku2ZX0IQBc/s1600/lamb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="511" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpUSO08Ehm9tOYWw1-ih4BMtuuaCYD1CI7ZvCzyUHMSEOe2jMJcXEyMia2rm6fB4zr83AlhNg084sRwlojKLSEhbaaMXChggsf2viBNiAdDEhK4eUwaMhFXNko8rN1v79nku2ZX0IQBc/s640/lamb.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHdLyq0Phc06nhOB2Qju7JE5_wRxEVQcqCe082sAJ9HIOYg2Uq1XHrpCFmr4D706vI3oeZZaf8BWmGHetBM4isPwdilcKzErZfoAkW4UnwYGvH1HAASE9O37fSv8a5FJTkIUafe7HISA/s1600/farm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHdLyq0Phc06nhOB2Qju7JE5_wRxEVQcqCe082sAJ9HIOYg2Uq1XHrpCFmr4D706vI3oeZZaf8BWmGHetBM4isPwdilcKzErZfoAkW4UnwYGvH1HAASE9O37fSv8a5FJTkIUafe7HISA/s1600/farm.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also came home with a renewed appreciation of the beauty of our gorgeous region and our hometown - Goulburn.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is good timing as I am currently vying for the opportunity to create some artwork for the local Council. I have been pondering how I can bring my skills to the local Community and I hope this will be my beginning. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So while we were in town today I took some photos around town to create some reference for my drawings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkm9RCqyK_9AFBBTl0ENrMgOTpoX1nYyRP1nvl7GR6WbCDyBnBdekUcxzMIKpKrN25fjZRfpNahblikakSj01KmBj5G6AQ8UQdpVu4lv0NGOiWMBU_5kU21YE2rGP2sTc8JewbPH6KCKc/s1600/court+house+goulburn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkm9RCqyK_9AFBBTl0ENrMgOTpoX1nYyRP1nvl7GR6WbCDyBnBdekUcxzMIKpKrN25fjZRfpNahblikakSj01KmBj5G6AQ8UQdpVu4lv0NGOiWMBU_5kU21YE2rGP2sTc8JewbPH6KCKc/s1600/court+house+goulburn.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEL95e9fHqPvTfkF8tuiqmjA3ABejoMugEkwM3Yni-6EAv_oWNQDUBt9ll7DU79_kCV-0W3z1Krv5Ls-Y4erHAMLIZHLMGfL_nuwDSYssOLdLcdMar8GBJqwgUbnqhDXS7ph9Y_26Hbw/s1600/post+office+goulburn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEL95e9fHqPvTfkF8tuiqmjA3ABejoMugEkwM3Yni-6EAv_oWNQDUBt9ll7DU79_kCV-0W3z1Krv5Ls-Y4erHAMLIZHLMGfL_nuwDSYssOLdLcdMar8GBJqwgUbnqhDXS7ph9Y_26Hbw/s1600/post+office+goulburn.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cqGwAA2oCC2MUckwN_UpPjHi_9_GlHH5KO3Wn1-aphFMLrt45SDXHAanJSBiHrp9JvPHkSqoS4NcUR5NRD_F3_40yZue80pCT7qEgonsrXwFKG6z7fHevc5lLhcNtVOxoA30VnKbmrk/s1600/town+hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cqGwAA2oCC2MUckwN_UpPjHi_9_GlHH5KO3Wn1-aphFMLrt45SDXHAanJSBiHrp9JvPHkSqoS4NcUR5NRD_F3_40yZue80pCT7qEgonsrXwFKG6z7fHevc5lLhcNtVOxoA30VnKbmrk/s1600/town+hall.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Of course I have many more images, but I just loved the lighting and the sky in these. Would you believe I just used the camera on my mobile phone? I was just trying to document, rather than create a beautiful image so I was really happy with these. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am doing lots of sketching this weekend for my deadline (which is next week) so it's really fun to think about all of the great things I love about living here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week we have been laying low a bit as we re-adjust to 'normal life' again, and I have even ignored my rather enormous work list for another week. All of this down time has re-ignited a long lost yearning to be more Crafty. I am just desperate to start making things and have a really long list of projects that I am determined to find time for. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPxVQ5GwEtCLOjZgHoSwLhbmKbKtZc1wv23HQzDqVa8kg3-zjSB3VLU2UFmisEtMUMCElSE0PVBOVUvtWhyphenhyphenPNNRlz0_jnhRtYE6aGEKaGTiTLbbjboNRHwhWqm96anFMSaxMue5b6Uhy4/s1600/chicken+crafts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPxVQ5GwEtCLOjZgHoSwLhbmKbKtZc1wv23HQzDqVa8kg3-zjSB3VLU2UFmisEtMUMCElSE0PVBOVUvtWhyphenhyphenPNNRlz0_jnhRtYE6aGEKaGTiTLbbjboNRHwhWqm96anFMSaxMue5b6Uhy4/s1600/chicken+crafts.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I used to do A LOT of knitting and sewing in my life before having children and I would love to share these skill with my girls, now that they are getting a bit older. They are fascinated by my knitting (as are the chickens) and have already requested all types of hats, scarves and jumpers!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have also borrowed a fabulous collection of books from our local library. (I just LOOOOOOVE our local library! They have a constant stream of NEW and modern books....and they even have some of MY books in there, so that's pretty exciting for me...and my girls!!)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf5zQlcZeOpD3rXdX7eYIL-cjA4hHGApJ7S-yefOfEICwEN7u6EquP3W9xV2TtaXzfCbqdJaZKxiLb5QXM5cWy3D2qXf384F6cH6vQyHIStwyQKudwGn_eNu8VdYn0GsQYqrZi92P5nw/s1600/library+books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf5zQlcZeOpD3rXdX7eYIL-cjA4hHGApJ7S-yefOfEICwEN7u6EquP3W9xV2TtaXzfCbqdJaZKxiLb5QXM5cWy3D2qXf384F6cH6vQyHIStwyQKudwGn_eNu8VdYn0GsQYqrZi92P5nw/s1600/library+books.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have also started a <a href="https://au.pinterest.com/reddogandjude/projects-for-me/">PINTEREST</a> board of projects that I hope inspires me into action, so check it out <a href="https://au.pinterest.com/reddogandjude/projects-for-me/">here</a> if you are interested. I have recently had my sewing machines serviced and am ready to go...well almost! I NEED to build my fabric collection up again, so it looks like a wonderful excuse to stock up!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are some wonderful things happening on the work front at the moment, but I will save that for another post.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Until next time......x</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-42879713576790787602016-04-19T16:09:00.000+10:002016-04-19T16:09:31.955+10:00New Releases for May 2016!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yes, I am still here! I am working through a pretty extensive 'to do' list, but thought I'd better stop by and let you know that I am still around! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Ella Diaries news:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is the latest release for the Ella Diaries series. It's a wonderful tale full of all the usual craziness and antics you have come to expect from Ella and her friends, all centered around the School Play.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqfmGRdfhZj4ECF1izRpXh-Y3qT-ItqiyQXbqdxRF8_OJdMlCTdoMD6nM2cMErBc1DjkqiFeTOyn5nE0Q1LL41yD1BtQO03GUk7TkmWSStp9G1ankkfQP3qZk-KCU18ABgRUr5oQVnkY/s1600/ED+Friends+not+forever.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqfmGRdfhZj4ECF1izRpXh-Y3qT-ItqiyQXbqdxRF8_OJdMlCTdoMD6nM2cMErBc1DjkqiFeTOyn5nE0Q1LL41yD1BtQO03GUk7TkmWSStp9G1ankkfQP3qZk-KCU18ABgRUr5oQVnkY/s400/ED+Friends+not+forever.jpg" width="338" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a bit of an exclusive look at some of the internal artwork:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWF4-HQzXyFrHh_TZRFeW8keJbp-pvR5CR_IO_esOB-DLF1M77F0r5JZ3z7GaACSlNHfM1R0sIGQhEisnrGTWHMnFlliHZOD_pX2_VcuSTXTqLgSxKEtOWTwfwb3AanhpSrRLsg9BFdMU/s1600/ED+FNF+INT+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWF4-HQzXyFrHh_TZRFeW8keJbp-pvR5CR_IO_esOB-DLF1M77F0r5JZ3z7GaACSlNHfM1R0sIGQhEisnrGTWHMnFlliHZOD_pX2_VcuSTXTqLgSxKEtOWTwfwb3AanhpSrRLsg9BFdMU/s1600/ED+FNF+INT+1.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iCaiRn4bkfb31Lfzv_hXV7yJQeWCs4eC6hA3Zms1XYnUR2KE_K9idjxrqM1ubQgA9onNEY_GDQvKfNOZuS8XUIvUd_DeYsO5A14uh9UJHwj2XeWrczlinrDXYPUx_DRZIzdhIDI8TFY/s1600/ED+FNF+INT+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iCaiRn4bkfb31Lfzv_hXV7yJQeWCs4eC6hA3Zms1XYnUR2KE_K9idjxrqM1ubQgA9onNEY_GDQvKfNOZuS8XUIvUd_DeYsO5A14uh9UJHwj2XeWrczlinrDXYPUx_DRZIzdhIDI8TFY/s320/ED+FNF+INT+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggt8yc1YI7BmuHJw1ERgE2Z5mmCsFowYE7FNdvU8YGKzrHlFcPfOIOjMUSfH3ZHWrtA-y3U0RngJ3yPeDKQlyZ0SzqJxk9RnsFkwPPZHeOmEiF46K650mBchBaBsQhfKNcHoIdsbqybUQ/s1600/ED+FNF+INT+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggt8yc1YI7BmuHJw1ERgE2Z5mmCsFowYE7FNdvU8YGKzrHlFcPfOIOjMUSfH3ZHWrtA-y3U0RngJ3yPeDKQlyZ0SzqJxk9RnsFkwPPZHeOmEiF46K650mBchBaBsQhfKNcHoIdsbqybUQ/s1600/ED+FNF+INT+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrT7ISHy4r_NPOwpmgK5RPKrALdjLXqrs6QKx2L06RwJ5mqFIf00m5gEtdJi8eMEFdjC_18fBU9qVTI3KV83T0HSCNOWvDUacdgd4n4K_P227x4vA6LE_5DfWYUguOk761AYDr7nqC6A/s1600/ED+FNF+INT+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrT7ISHy4r_NPOwpmgK5RPKrALdjLXqrs6QKx2L06RwJ5mqFIf00m5gEtdJi8eMEFdjC_18fBU9qVTI3KV83T0HSCNOWvDUacdgd4n4K_P227x4vA6LE_5DfWYUguOk761AYDr7nqC6A/s320/ED+FNF+INT+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The latest edition (May 2016) of Total Girl Magazine features your chance to win a copy of this new Ella Diaries book through their COMPS CLUB. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFUBkloziJ5d-3W-ioVhoXUzq-DfGnttYqi-4eoRCorYPdeByeP-dVDu4Kxyf8HbJvCZJZviz7C-mJhPJl2TW0W13_oHq-hqOclDV3uAip51pplFSXkjfXRpxC-jebgojVl17WFe50lI/s1600/ED+Friends+not+forever+comp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFUBkloziJ5d-3W-ioVhoXUzq-DfGnttYqi-4eoRCorYPdeByeP-dVDu4Kxyf8HbJvCZJZviz7C-mJhPJl2TW0W13_oHq-hqOclDV3uAip51pplFSXkjfXRpxC-jebgojVl17WFe50lI/s400/ED+Friends+not+forever+comp.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Otherwise, it hits the shops on the 1st of May, so be sure to grab a copy, or order one online <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Ella-Diaries---7-Friends-Not-Forever/9781760157173">here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have also completed the next book in this series (!) and have started the cover art for the following book, so there's LOTS more to come in this gorgeous series.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Other news:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have been meaning to share this one with you for AGES! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGwl6Su88sSevCTAaLyYtk5ty7mfEclTgqJYbng0cCwusY6NY3d6H9umklGhgUtJszmhjU6tsXGJZUUsRCg6G6gv-_-xaFn7fV4NMl-znlN1UTb3alobhMztABumOpib3o5Cck0ZhOW4/s1600/WYFOJ+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGwl6Su88sSevCTAaLyYtk5ty7mfEclTgqJYbng0cCwusY6NY3d6H9umklGhgUtJszmhjU6tsXGJZUUsRCg6G6gv-_-xaFn7fV4NMl-znlN1UTb3alobhMztABumOpib3o5Cck0ZhOW4/s400/WYFOJ+3.jpg" width="391" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was the very first book I created on my wonderful journey with the team at Scholastic. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHkBJ5tl18_PzY3tetN7VnPPHe_Alb6rYPpiU1yCeK8Jl1BMnmxTB384buQOkAq2qZVK4vou4X3W5b7TOPXb9BHoJB9ba69WkHJ7lOZWWRhL3CzrdTpIB_hzs2CRRXOIQaln59vJNTZs/s1600/WYFOJ+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHkBJ5tl18_PzY3tetN7VnPPHe_Alb6rYPpiU1yCeK8Jl1BMnmxTB384buQOkAq2qZVK4vou4X3W5b7TOPXb9BHoJB9ba69WkHJ7lOZWWRhL3CzrdTpIB_hzs2CRRXOIQaln59vJNTZs/s400/WYFOJ+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4PcgEJpcyWcD-S-0DUCjRqn_WR-T0ttm40uR7Ek9ocVdjZV0iuyzdsCDc_8tUcDyBgELYMjLl6_64aTKeuMB4DOPnR7iffTU1RBozIuulBcdlMwq1t4KWpCu5ybzmcu53HD2mZUV-qY/s1600/WYFOJ+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4PcgEJpcyWcD-S-0DUCjRqn_WR-T0ttm40uR7Ek9ocVdjZV0iuyzdsCDc_8tUcDyBgELYMjLl6_64aTKeuMB4DOPnR7iffTU1RBozIuulBcdlMwq1t4KWpCu5ybzmcu53HD2mZUV-qY/s400/WYFOJ+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will always have a soft spot for this book and it's just been released as a BOARD BOOK! This format really suits this book, and it still includes the music CD of Peter Combe's hilarious songs! This one is also due for release on the 1st of May. <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/book/9781760274115?redirected=true&selectCurrency=AUD&w=AF45AU96KQRF1XA8Z3H7&gclid=CjwKEAjwi9K4BRCQzq7d1c6A_XASJABueAO2EkU1t4qKb1hYgViUjqUmqkuIS5Wl37BSOOxVd5cF6RoCQJnw_wcB">Here's</a> one place you can order it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>On my desk:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A brand new picture book! Yay! I have missed working in FULL COLOUR and I am delighted to be working on my first sketches for a fun new book. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Of course we also have a several new <a href="http://www.ellaandolivia.com.au/#/home">Ella and Olivia</a> books on the go, and I am desperately waiting to see the first proofs for another brand new (still Top Secret!) book due for release in September.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Phew! That's it for now. We are off on a very long overdue family vacation shortly, so we are counting down the sleeps until the big day!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Check back soon for more news....there's still a couple of things brewing behind the scenes that I hope to be able to share soon. x</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-63358689808029448552016-03-01T20:40:00.000+11:002016-03-01T20:40:23.330+11:00Coming up for air!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCwUO5Ns8FmZH4lEcMs_CLOw_HxFqIlkb6maF73KKkQhdEQEM2Wrmb3myEtcFv-fKSvxK1zB2alj8zOPr_913NQzsfyP4QYaSDPOL6KBjifzMXtyp6FWXjvAiRjeDoE1D3gmUyKgRfUw/s1600/on+my+desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCwUO5Ns8FmZH4lEcMs_CLOw_HxFqIlkb6maF73KKkQhdEQEM2Wrmb3myEtcFv-fKSvxK1zB2alj8zOPr_913NQzsfyP4QYaSDPOL6KBjifzMXtyp6FWXjvAiRjeDoE1D3gmUyKgRfUw/s640/on+my+desk.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This once month posting thing is clearly becoming a habit! There is so much going on but I just can't seem to make time to share things here. When there are so many things demanding your time and attention, then something has to give. I just can't physically do everything so I feel a bit like I am in survival mode! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">None the less, here I am! Last month I managed to finish an exciting BRAND NEW book project (double the length of anything I have worked on before!) This obviously means double the work! It took an entire week of scanning and 'live tracing' to sort out all of the illustrations (even with the help of my niece!) I am really pleased with how it all came together and I can't wait to see the final product - (due for release in SEPTEMBER this year.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">No rest for the wicked though - I have already completed another <i>Ella and Olivia </i>book since then and am starting on the next <i>Ella Diaries</i> too!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I do have a few new things to share, but I still need to photograph them. In the meantime, here's some (bad) photos of a lovely surprise I recently received in the mail. It's a Spanish version of a book I worked on a few years ago with Five Mile Press. It's a "Press and Play" concept where you 'pop' out a 2D character to interact with the pages. It's the first time I have seen a foreign language version of one of my books, so it's pretty exciting!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8AubybZCvobdHgWMl9K2wEhOzHUs7D59ZxoEBdLOj6MItL9s7vuA_g76ZCwjLRNyrYg7mRuIH5Dq4GQ6HfZf-qn96T1yyld5MtwNlVMsv5156XJVYLTczcj1Lz2madjbOEEzypHtrvo/s1600/Spanish+books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8AubybZCvobdHgWMl9K2wEhOzHUs7D59ZxoEBdLOj6MItL9s7vuA_g76ZCwjLRNyrYg7mRuIH5Dq4GQ6HfZf-qn96T1yyld5MtwNlVMsv5156XJVYLTczcj1Lz2madjbOEEzypHtrvo/s400/Spanish+books.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihndZDKaOsJZsB_qtT7ab9Woteoweywc__ppafcjYDwrGXFXStSCMlpVEIELie9B5mimkG0LpYMy45Wq-pR2t1NcUtoT7eD7V9pCTr_nzHYxfdgL4wYXZSg_Xlqr8yf4tXCRxqtxSjHkU/s1600/Spanish+books+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihndZDKaOsJZsB_qtT7ab9Woteoweywc__ppafcjYDwrGXFXStSCMlpVEIELie9B5mimkG0LpYMy45Wq-pR2t1NcUtoT7eD7V9pCTr_nzHYxfdgL4wYXZSg_Xlqr8yf4tXCRxqtxSjHkU/s400/Spanish+books+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And just because I don't share enough farm pics here, I just wanted to share our lovely chickens getting in on some out door painting fun! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXFrzBekGcBmXnsuU0c-qLC3beta34GPhz2tqeE4NkvyjSkZJwBru-gVGnrm7Qw6VBJ57S81_5SG4QGb1e9tdhrN4QLfqFDOO7rqtRf8pmaACNqj9fjFpAxYdEPi-N8rUJoOff5Pet1M/s1600/chicken+artwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXFrzBekGcBmXnsuU0c-qLC3beta34GPhz2tqeE4NkvyjSkZJwBru-gVGnrm7Qw6VBJ57S81_5SG4QGb1e9tdhrN4QLfqFDOO7rqtRf8pmaACNqj9fjFpAxYdEPi-N8rUJoOff5Pet1M/s640/chicken+artwork.jpg" width="435" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I swear these chickens think they are human! They always try to come inside the house with us and even jump into the car with us whenever they can! I love them!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-23026083127263290672016-02-02T08:34:00.000+11:002016-02-02T08:34:00.537+11:00Mascot fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmMaD9V9nGcXkIJAptjL7KGiW0vtMx-ldqyK7jpPEnwdtnntBs-s_uYGGPxNMWM4cJpPyz4a3dK9p-cgNzvaWnAXJUZppdH7ITgf-lPbCw6GFUC8ZI6kaLo3mpxhhLnQbDw4ipZvsnhkw/s1600/PABLO+COLOUR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmMaD9V9nGcXkIJAptjL7KGiW0vtMx-ldqyK7jpPEnwdtnntBs-s_uYGGPxNMWM4cJpPyz4a3dK9p-cgNzvaWnAXJUZppdH7ITgf-lPbCw6GFUC8ZI6kaLo3mpxhhLnQbDw4ipZvsnhkw/s640/PABLO+COLOUR.jpg" width="502" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A little side project for a friend....</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-39713218238823789912016-01-25T17:21:00.003+11:002016-01-25T17:21:47.801+11:00(NOT SO) HAPPY NEW YEAR!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, a VERY belated HAPPY NEW YEAR to you all. I would have to say that we have had a very ordinary start to the New Year. In fact, I would go so far as to say it has included some of the worst days of my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't intend to bother you with the details, but it has included writing off our car. (We hit a <i>wombat</i> on route to our holiday destination on Christmas Eve and have been without a car for the past month while we sort things out with insurance! This is a tough ask when you live on a farm and can't rely on public transport, or walking anywhere!) But the worst part was one of our daughters becoming seriously ill and requiring some time in hospital. She has made a wonderful recovery, but we are still dealing with some side effects. This one will haunt me for some time to come, I think!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, that's my excuse for going quiet here again of late. I have so much to share with you, but will try to do it in stages. I plan to overhaul this blog and set up a website this year, but for now I have some serious work to catch up on.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpZl4KHFqnjZ5fUhRaZ_ZIUFWPGK3FcHvQSRcjIdtUDB6lDS3qwEWJvl05BnS9c2xw5BK3fr1UXsIPCPfIYDLF-lbOEYtUFiMme8FwdxumNGV2Hto3fKH26UPleYIrtIDlfxAxJ_dBNg/s1600/planning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpZl4KHFqnjZ5fUhRaZ_ZIUFWPGK3FcHvQSRcjIdtUDB6lDS3qwEWJvl05BnS9c2xw5BK3fr1UXsIPCPfIYDLF-lbOEYtUFiMme8FwdxumNGV2Hto3fKH26UPleYIrtIDlfxAxJ_dBNg/s640/planning.jpg" width="606" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have had to do some re-shuffling of deadlines, but it feels good to get some normality and routine back into our lives. I have managed to complete the new cover artwork for the latest <b><i>Ella Diaries</i></b>, and have also completed all of the internal artwork for another new <b><i>Ella Diaries</i></b> due for release in a few months. These stories just get better and better and I LOVE working on this series.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0zKl1M4q9Dg0TyZ8rrLBVICEoEx1Eh6pBHz1kENl7Z47HLugo-y8yDDJRqxcoN-MTfFrZIidD2VeKtIzwbQKv0pFE7K8QhHs1oLba6nWK9e2KgmHKkjyD8Tu21kBHM8QLGT15C29_RA/s1600/desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0zKl1M4q9Dg0TyZ8rrLBVICEoEx1Eh6pBHz1kENl7Z47HLugo-y8yDDJRqxcoN-MTfFrZIidD2VeKtIzwbQKv0pFE7K8QhHs1oLba6nWK9e2KgmHKkjyD8Tu21kBHM8QLGT15C29_RA/s640/desk.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also meant to mention that you can now get a BOXED SET of<i><b> Ella Diaries</b></i> book. You know I love a boxed set!! (Sorry about the bad photo - something else I have to work on this year!)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYLM_FrNT05ABisxmoWvcqOSGoFaGrasX9-ztRRAGJcNXCMQqpWo-xlQTnHCNrzNJ2KMWi_-JfKJKO1HICD3aLW4UnQbMN1s9NFs9xFkTKGZSOugMg4t-G5yQPcDZYcnM5Bz-IOv662w/s1600/ella+diaries+boxed+set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYLM_FrNT05ABisxmoWvcqOSGoFaGrasX9-ztRRAGJcNXCMQqpWo-xlQTnHCNrzNJ2KMWi_-JfKJKO1HICD3aLW4UnQbMN1s9NFs9xFkTKGZSOugMg4t-G5yQPcDZYcnM5Bz-IOv662w/s640/ella+diaries+boxed+set.jpg" width="380" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh, and while we are talking boxed sets, here's an <b><i>Ella and Olivia</i></b> BOXED SET I spotted in one of our favourite book stores!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkpbrOxul9FtQAjdsnIodSJdW_c8CoQ0jLgDjK55nuqjF0RBuMXs3qyEPmELuKhshgLMgLP6XA9bUqGhOMjHlW3cznojixWtjFKQonrZTiWvCpbeLhKDiSQjiCm5C9x8GLqgNxSLje8o/s1600/ella+boxed+set+in+store.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkpbrOxul9FtQAjdsnIodSJdW_c8CoQ0jLgDjK55nuqjF0RBuMXs3qyEPmELuKhshgLMgLP6XA9bUqGhOMjHlW3cznojixWtjFKQonrZTiWvCpbeLhKDiSQjiCm5C9x8GLqgNxSLje8o/s640/ella+boxed+set+in+store.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now that I have caught up a bit, I am also back working on my BRAND NEW, TOP SECRET book. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgirmJOUQJeBzpwsGQUDNiyWy6_aKsJr0HBmFXPaKQUGpkckVZ89NkmP6XOu-U8FzHRqHKebBxeVJKTaet2jqomAl_p8sBhAGQi6doPiaYjCP0y1vWx3S1_bz8yJDKtJdxx1u5woYXk6KY/s1600/top+secret.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgirmJOUQJeBzpwsGQUDNiyWy6_aKsJr0HBmFXPaKQUGpkckVZ89NkmP6XOu-U8FzHRqHKebBxeVJKTaet2jqomAl_p8sBhAGQi6doPiaYjCP0y1vWx3S1_bz8yJDKtJdxx1u5woYXk6KY/s400/top+secret.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am having so much fun with this one. There's lots of new characters and so many hilarious moments that I may have gone a bit over board with the illustrations! I don't know how we are going to fit it all into the number of pages we have been allocated!! This one is not due for release until September this year, so I can't give too much away just yet. But for now it's FUN, FUN, FUN!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This year is stacking up to be one of my busiest yet! Stay tuned for more updates and some new releases I still need to share with you. Back soon.</span>Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-80621892209656676652015-12-16T12:57:00.001+11:002015-12-16T12:57:37.568+11:00NEW ELLA DIARIES: PONY SCHOOL SHOWDOWN<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Phew...another month of craziness done and dusted! I would like to think that next year I can make some more time for this blog, but right now it's just a case of keeping up with the heavy work flow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My motivation was boosted by the arrival of my advance copies of the new ELLA DIARIES book - PONY SCHOOL SHOWDOWN. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxbV89wj9nnbOA9Mem8nqFLlOtdz-FF28An_le6MoSukiJeTeTIJe9gyzr-JVKLHlzSuKq31cfDJ0kk39_QZ4h24i6fqeT_cNTqPGqw51Bh8HrLdqcApU1Yl36Ax4HyUmRGtjK_KdAU5Y/s1600/Ella+Diaries+PONY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxbV89wj9nnbOA9Mem8nqFLlOtdz-FF28An_le6MoSukiJeTeTIJe9gyzr-JVKLHlzSuKq31cfDJ0kk39_QZ4h24i6fqeT_cNTqPGqw51Bh8HrLdqcApU1Yl36Ax4HyUmRGtjK_KdAU5Y/s640/Ella+Diaries+PONY.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I always thought horses were my weakness when it came to drawing, but this week I had to draw an Orang-Utan and that REALLY tested my skills!! I spent WAY too long on it, but was happy with it in the end.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, despite the 'horse' theme, I think this one may be my new favourite in the ELLA DIARIES series (but I think I say that about every new release, don't I?!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupIFigZ-rs9aulzegjX6W4ZSSaSDATWYFQaOqH0-Bc7KOJLt73tmll1OuEZYAZDjQMaJ9Al0RFJXoIlyIMv8uv4LRa102evAzCWGvW1mftoDMpT9-CsKMaSPqobOj0HSCDNKPGns_3jM/s1600/Ella+Diaries+PONY+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupIFigZ-rs9aulzegjX6W4ZSSaSDATWYFQaOqH0-Bc7KOJLt73tmll1OuEZYAZDjQMaJ9Al0RFJXoIlyIMv8uv4LRa102evAzCWGvW1mftoDMpT9-CsKMaSPqobOj0HSCDNKPGns_3jM/s640/Ella+Diaries+PONY+2.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We also head into the Christmas season with the wonderful news that ELLA DIARIES has been sold into 10 more countries in Asia! It's such an exciting time for all of us involved in this beautiful series and I am so proud to be a part of it all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next year brings a few changes, and some exciting NEW books for me to work on, with the contracts and deadlines all signed off and ready for the NEW YEAR.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Best wishes for a fabulous Holiday season and here's to an exciting 2016.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Danielle x</span><br />
<br />Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1467596119333319841.post-19971457315660093502015-11-11T14:53:00.000+11:002015-11-11T14:53:00.247+11:00NEW ELLA AND OLIVIA COLLECTION<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have always wanted to have a boxed set of my books, and here they are!! 12 <a href="http://www.ellaandolivia.com.au/#/home">Ella and Olivia</a> books!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is such a gorgeous gift idea - just in time for Christmas. I am also working on a BRAND NEW <a href="http://www.ellaandolivia.com.au/#/home">Ella and Olivia</a> concept due for release next year! Stay tuned for more details!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5L982UBGesw_WM8yrVLFCP0PV1X_fmnTLgGAlFf8dK8aGYgK-rIWnIe1xSU6YRUY7CoXx3tyDGFPdAIwYF8A6FzEvpgAkWvBQygGTpALWkJSBLsgS6U2A_QwFbfbBIxJ2yHPxkRlcX4/s1600/Ella+and+Olivia+BOX+12+SET+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5L982UBGesw_WM8yrVLFCP0PV1X_fmnTLgGAlFf8dK8aGYgK-rIWnIe1xSU6YRUY7CoXx3tyDGFPdAIwYF8A6FzEvpgAkWvBQygGTpALWkJSBLsgS6U2A_QwFbfbBIxJ2yHPxkRlcX4/s640/Ella+and+Olivia+BOX+12+SET+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkPCZogXHQfRCLZiBjaNSdnjUN-m_hIUQCt5pyclO6pkBzKoUkx_zduiJy-7TLUpR35WRMdNw_TYJMlRnnrVbid4fveb8J_NTWee2cDAp2RY04Usrlc_m0QtGty1KiKy3DDlcPNY5BMI/s1600/Ella+and+Olivia+BOX+12+SET+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkPCZogXHQfRCLZiBjaNSdnjUN-m_hIUQCt5pyclO6pkBzKoUkx_zduiJy-7TLUpR35WRMdNw_TYJMlRnnrVbid4fveb8J_NTWee2cDAp2RY04Usrlc_m0QtGty1KiKy3DDlcPNY5BMI/s640/Ella+and+Olivia+BOX+12+SET+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZ90B9Iggppppfg1umap0X68Mln_crtDHXp6wMyOHPQ7FpYth6fQNkyeYaU5Ml3Y17JD5OTSN-1MWY7mG4NXNH-SRPFPyQj4mugspmFf-rxzPone3CVHGBXoTesA1zwJVe1NJd3uK6c4/s1600/Ella+and+Olivia+BOX+12+SET+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZ90B9Iggppppfg1umap0X68Mln_crtDHXp6wMyOHPQ7FpYth6fQNkyeYaU5Ml3Y17JD5OTSN-1MWY7mG4NXNH-SRPFPyQj4mugspmFf-rxzPone3CVHGBXoTesA1zwJVe1NJd3uK6c4/s640/Ella+and+Olivia+BOX+12+SET+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Danielle McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06600600717942887276noreply@blogger.com0