by Betsy Devany
When Tara approached me to do a guest post, I was thrilled. And then I sat down and thought: Oh, dear. How best can I contribute as a pre-published author, who shares her writing room with a life-sized gorilla named Norman and a slew of beloved stuffies?
So I went back through my own PiBoldMo notes/ideas. While I’d followed prior years’ posts, I didn’t officially commit until 2011. I’d spent months revising a number of novels, and I missed working on picture books. Coming up with a new idea(s) every day was like treating myself to a mango/banana smoothie from Cold Stone. I told myself, at the time, that if I actually did that, maybe while enjoying a Love It smoothie, a picture book idea would come to me. I’d have a sparking new voice before I got back home, acting like I had not just gone to Cold Stone and indulged myself, once again.
So with a self-promise to more vigorously support Cold Stone, I took a leap of faith, and added my name to the 2011 PiBoldMo roster.
Every day, I read the guest post. I studied the advice, soaked in the inspiration, and highlighted what spoke to me. I kept a pen and paper nearby at all times. As ideas came, I stretched some further, adding bits of dialogue or notes about conflict. With other ideas, I described the image or images that led to the “light bulb,” all of which seemed to come when I was driving, walking, or paying with my grandkids, i.e. just being silly. Silly like having tea parties with Norman, my granddaughter and seventeen unicorns. Silly like wearing funny glasses and too-small gowns, riding on stick horses while speaking in a British accent. Silly like doing puppet shows in which you act out picture books gone wild. With all of this, I embraced the child within—with my grandkids along for the fun, of course. I do not hold private tea parties for the gorilla, the unicorns, and myself. (Well, okay, I may have done this once.)
Two words of advice: Have fun.
Open your heart and forget what your neighbors might think when they see you dashing through your yard riding a stick pony and shouting, “Yee-haw! Grandma’s gonna wrestle you wild thing!” Ignore their looks when you’re tossing balls to a giant stuffed gorilla. And if your dress-up outfit suggests you’ve forgotten that you’re now a responsible adult, smile and wave. They might even join you! Enjoying-your-life moments take us to the magical place where ideas shift like cotton-candy clouds, all for the taking. Reach out and grab one!
Or . . . you can dice potatoes, because the act of dicing potatoes can also land you in the Magical and Marketable World of Ideas.
On day twenty-four of PiBoldMo 2011, I was doing exactly that, trying to look like I knew the official ins-and-outs of all things potato. It was Thanksgiving, and my daughters, whose adept cooking skills strongly suggest I did not give birth to them, stood there watching me.
“No, Mom. Smaller chunks,” said my youngest.
“Use the other knife, and hold it this way,” said the eldest. “Are you sure you’re our mother?”
“Yes,” I said. Chop, chop, chop.
“I’m shocked that we didn’t starve as children,” said one sister to the other.
“At least I can write,” I said when the “light bulb” went off. “Lucy!” I shouted.
“Who’s Lucy?” asked the youngest. “It’ll be midnight before we’re sitting at the table eating turkey.”
“Lucy . . . she has dolls, all these dolls, and . . .” I swapped the knife for a pen. “One is really smelly and . . .”
My youngest gave her sister an uneasy look. “You’re the paramedic. I think Mom needs medical attention.”
“I think those potatoes need attention,” my eldest said, right after she forever-fired me from cooking the annual Thanksgiving dinner. In truth, we took a family vote. And when my eldest said, “Raise your hand if you think we should fire Mom from cooking Thanksgiving dinner from here on out.” My arm slapped the ceiling first.
The vote was unanimous.
“Thank you, PiBoldMo!” I said, fleeing the kitchen in pursuit of this new smelly idea.
While SMELLY BABY seemed to rise from a pot of unevenly diced potatoes, it wasn’t that simple. Ideas latch on to us, long before the switch goes on. And the more you write, the more the ideas come. Which is why my father, who was a published author, always said, “Write every day, but also live and enjoy your life. The ideas will come, when you’re not so busy chasing them.”
SMELLY BABY grew in my subconscious, its seed planted from working in an old-fashioned toy store, where electronic toys don’t exist. Lucy quietly evolved after talking to hundreds of children I’ve met at the store, children who’ve shared stories of their dollies and smelly stuffies. I love these stories—every single one of them. So listen. Listen to what kids say. Sincere interest (and delight) in what children have to say has left me with a tub full of notes and bits of dialogue, all scribbled on tiny slips of paper. It’s my Idea Treasure Chest. “You have to think of your writing as an IRA, and make daily deposits,” my father also loved to tell me. If all those slips of paper had monetary value, I would be a millionaire, though what makes my life rich is writing for children.
By November’s end my 2011 calendar was filled with stars—one for every idea I came up with. It was so much fun, I gave no thought to which ideas might blossom into a marketable story.
And then one did.
Smelly Baby’s story bubbled and boiled. It was a joy to work on. Playing with the words. Roaring at the images the words evoked. Living with these characters that became (and remain) real to me. This little spark of a PiBoldMo idea grew and grew until it gathered enough strength and heart to capture the attention of not only Christy Ottaviano at Christy Ottaviano Books/Henry Holt, but also the renowned illustrator, Christopher Denise, who calls it “laugh out loud funny.” Publication is set for Spring 2016.
In 2011, I also won an original painting by James Burks (the illustrator of Tara’s book THE MONSTORE). Little (PiBoldMo) Monkey hangs on my wall, and reminds me to play every day. Reminds me to mount a red tricycle, even if my legs are too long. It reminds me to trust in myself, and that if I lift my bare feet off the pedals, I won’t fall off.
Can you see the steep hill? See all of us on our tricycles, waiting for Tara to lower the flag? Little Monkey can. He’s waiting to shout, “1-2-3, Go! Go write daily. Reach for those ideas on your way down.” Having bare feet works the best, as does shouting ‘Whee!’ as you catch a new idea.
It’s almost November 1st, so get out your tricycle, your stars, your pen and your paper.
You’re in for a fun ride.
I’ll be waving at you as we coast down the PiBoldMo hill together.
Betsy Devany wrote her first picture book, The Cat Who Ate Green Peas, at the age of nine. While she wishes the self-illustrated manuscript were still in her possession, she is certain that elements of it have found their way into her writing today. Today, she writes picture books, chapter books, middle grade and young adult novels. Her picture book featuring Norman the gorilla won the 2011 Barbara Karlin Grant Runner-up. Betsy has been honored nine times since 2007 in the prestigious writing competition, New Voices in Children’s Literature: Tassy Walden Award. She is honored to work with the lovely Emily van Beek at Folio Literary.
Almost eight years to the month of joining SCBWI, Betsy received her first book contract. Smelly Baby, illustrated by Christopher Denise, is forthcoming from Christy Ottaviano Books/Henry Holt with publication set for Spring 2016.
To learn more about Betsy (or Norman), visit her at BetsyDevany.com, follow her on Twitter, or read about Norman’s retirement and how his replacement was found.
Betsy is giving away TWO picture book critiques!
Both prizes will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for these prizes if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on this post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
206 comments
Comments feed for this article
October 28, 2013 at 6:10 am
Sue Poduska
Gotta type this fast ’cause I’m so excited to be the first. Thanks so much for your story, Betsy! Proof that inspiration can hit you at any moment. Yay!
October 28, 2013 at 6:13 am
Victoria Warneck
Thank you, Betsy! You are full of energy, ideas, and inspiration. So thrilled about your success!
October 28, 2013 at 6:20 am
Rosanne
Hope to find my own smelly baby soon. Thanks for sharing.
October 28, 2013 at 6:24 am
nicole snitselaar
before I read the article… How can any one look so beautiful ? 😉
October 28, 2013 at 6:31 am
Lisa Buscemi-Reiss
😀 Great article. Inspiring!
October 28, 2013 at 6:40 am
saputnam
Thank you for sharing your story, Betsy! It gives the rest of us hope that we will also have a PiBoIdMo success story somewhere down the line.
Congratulations on Smelly Baby!!
October 28, 2013 at 6:44 am
Michelle O'Hara Levin
Such a great post! Thank you, Betsy (and thank you Tara for lining it up). Cannot wait to read Smelly Baby!
October 28, 2013 at 6:47 am
Sandy Perlic
So happy to hear your story, with your joy for writing shining through in each word. Smelly Baby sounds like a fun read!
October 28, 2013 at 6:51 am
Jacqueline Adams
Thanks for sharing your advice and your dad’s (very inspiring!) and for doing it in a way that started my day with a laugh.
October 28, 2013 at 7:02 am
kpbock
What a great story! Thanks for the inspiration!
October 28, 2013 at 7:03 am
amymariesmith
What an inspiration. Congratulations on Smelly Baby! And I’m going out to by stars today – great idea. Thanks Betsy.
October 28, 2013 at 7:05 am
Andria
Thank goodness for grandchildren. They are God’s policemen and women 😉
October 28, 2013 at 7:06 am
Beth Gallagher
What a great post! Thanks for such great advice and inspiration, Betsy. I absolutley love the title ‘Smelly Baby’, and will look forward to reading it!
October 28, 2013 at 7:12 am
Bev Baird
Loved reading about your inspirations. Great advice from you and your father!
October 28, 2013 at 7:15 am
Emily Lim-Leh
Thanks for sharing your dad’s Great advice- make daily deposits!
October 28, 2013 at 7:27 am
rgstones
I’m excited to see your book come out!
October 28, 2013 at 7:30 am
Manju Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Betsy, I like your sense of humor. Thanks for sharing your road to publishing.
October 28, 2013 at 7:30 am
Kellie DuBay Gillis
Congrats and thanks for sharing your story! (Sounds like listening to your dad’s advice coupled with your hard work paid off!) Can’t wait to read SMELLY BABY!
October 28, 2013 at 7:43 am
Michele Norman
Thank you Betsy! Perfect way to begin the week.
October 28, 2013 at 7:48 am
tinamcho
Congratulations, Betsy! Great story! And I love your father’s analogy of depositing ideas and the IRA!
October 28, 2013 at 7:51 am
tlaulusa
Thanks for the reminder to have fun. Congrats on your book.
October 28, 2013 at 7:53 am
Priya Gopal
Great inspiration. It makes you believe that it can happen.
October 28, 2013 at 7:57 am
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
Thanks for this enthusiastic call to action. I’m ready!
October 28, 2013 at 8:03 am
heatherj
Thanks, Betsy! This was fun to read.
October 28, 2013 at 8:05 am
Joanne Sher
You brought a HUGE smile to my face, Betsy! And your enthusiasm is completely contagious. Congrats on the book – and for the wonderful advice. So excited for PiBoIdMo!!
October 28, 2013 at 8:18 am
PAPA
I love the sheer JOY in this post. I would dice potatoes anytime for Betsy just to be around her fun, enthusiastic self.
October 28, 2013 at 8:23 am
Alexa Kaufhold
Congrats, Betsy! I will definitely be looking for your book in 2016!
October 28, 2013 at 8:24 am
Jennifer Judd
I drank this up! Fabulous, Besty, you are a true kindred spirit. I am hoping I get fired from Thanksgiving dinner myself! Loved every word of this post. You’ve inspired me!
October 28, 2013 at 8:27 am
Luanne Marten
Congrats Betsy, what an inspirational post! Looking forward to Smelly Baby!
October 28, 2013 at 8:35 am
Joanne Roberts
Thanks for the inspiring words both here and on your blog. Here’s to a calendar full of stars!
October 28, 2013 at 8:39 am
Susan Cabael
What a journey! Thanks for sharing all the everyday details of it, reminding us how both play and chores lead to inspiration. Congrats on SMELLY BABY!!
October 28, 2013 at 8:41 am
Jackie Wellington
Congratulations, Betsy. Good for you. That is amazing.
October 28, 2013 at 8:42 am
jodelle55
Thanks for the great story of your first published book. I’m sure there will be many more!
October 28, 2013 at 8:46 am
Debbie Mickelson
Not only was this inspirational, it was fun. I loved how excited you became describing making Thanksgiving dinner and getting your idea. That was a laugh-out-loud moment for me. Thanks for reminding me that ideas come when we don’t try so hard AND to have fun. That is what it’s all about.
October 28, 2013 at 8:49 am
Meline
Thank you for this wonderful fun post! I believe I need to buy some stars.
October 28, 2013 at 8:58 am
Donna J. Shepherd
Fun, fun, FUN post! Thanks so much for sharing and congratulations on Smelly Baby. Sounds wonderful.
October 28, 2013 at 9:04 am
kathalsey
Great post! Congrats on the soon to be released Smelly Baby. I like the way you explain ideas percolating. As a 1st time nana of a darling 2.5 yr. old, I can relate to the stories/ideas that come from imaginative play.
October 28, 2013 at 9:07 am
Rick Starkey
I’m waiving back at you, waiting for the flag. It’s great to hear about other writers getting their ideas. Sometimes it’s the simple things that spark them.
October 28, 2013 at 9:08 am
tanyakonerman
Can’t wait to read Smelly Baby…I find that humor is the key to my writing and this one sounds so fun!
October 28, 2013 at 9:12 am
Laura Lowman Murray
The title Smelly Baby is a riot! Thanks Betsy for sharing your story – I loved the part about truly – sincerely – listening to and delighting in what children have to say. It made me think of all the times I am only “half-listening” because they have shared their thoughts in the middle of something else I am doing. A wonderful, gentle reminder to be “in the moment,” not only for writing, but life :).
October 28, 2013 at 9:13 am
erin
I love PiBoIdMo success stories! Thanks, Betsy, and congratulations on Smelly Baby!
October 28, 2013 at 9:14 am
Heather Greene
Thanks for the inspiration! Will chop potatoes immediately!
October 28, 2013 at 9:25 am
Penny Parker Klostermann
The monkey is great. And I love this— “Having bare feet works the best, as does shouting ‘Whee!’ as you catch a new idea.” I will have to keep that in mind as we take off on our tricycles!
Congratulations on Smelly Baby! It sounds so funny and funny books are my fave!
October 28, 2013 at 9:29 am
Joan
Thanks for sharing your inspiring story!
October 28, 2013 at 9:30 am
Nancy Churnin
Betsy, thank you so much for your great post and sharing advice from your wise father! Sometimes we can get so anxious to get to that magical place called published, we forget to enjoy the journey of creation, the part that takes time to simmer and boil and turn into something delicious (like your Thanksgiving dinner after your girls took over). Keep your heart open, look, listen and trust in the wonder of kids and the universe, work at it every day without knowing which day will be THE day the idea that must be written arrives, that is what I hear you saying. Congratulations on Smelly Baby (looking forward to reading it) and for reminding us of all the joy there is to find in the moment if we are willing to get on our little red tricycles and ride.
October 28, 2013 at 9:31 am
teresamis
A second vote for no cooking. this is “way better” than I could have ever imagined. Teresa MI Schaefer
October 28, 2013 at 9:37 am
Bonnie Adamson
Hahaha! As the mother of two foodie daughters who have now pretty much taken over Thanksgiving, to the delight of our entire family, I CAN RELATE. Thank you, Betsy–congratulations on Smelly Baby! And thank you Tara, for giving us something better to do than dicing potatoes this month!
October 28, 2013 at 9:43 am
lindaschueler
That was a laugh out loud funny post!
I really like what your father said, “Write every day, but also live and enjoy your life. The ideas will come, when you’re not so busy chasing them.” So true.
October 28, 2013 at 9:56 am
Debbie Austin
Thanks, Betsy! I loved your conversation with your daughters, and how you got your idea for Smelly Baby while dicing potatoes. I’ve got my red tricycle ready! Thanks for encouraging us to get ready for the ride.
October 28, 2013 at 9:57 am
colleen rowan kosinski
I loved reading your story, Betsy! Congratulations!
October 28, 2013 at 10:17 am
Mary Kate O'Keefe
This post is chock full of amazing inspiration! Betsy is the kind of person who’s words you read and then realize you’re dying to meet her in person!
October 28, 2013 at 10:17 am
Hannah
Love the Thanksgiving story Betsy!
October 28, 2013 at 10:21 am
Ann Treacy
Very good advice and congrats on your book!
October 28, 2013 at 10:27 am
Ashley Bankhead
This was a great motivating post. I am ready for November! Thanks.
October 28, 2013 at 10:35 am
yettee girard
It’s wild how our brains work. I loved your inspiration. Ideas come from everywhere. Yettee Girard
October 28, 2013 at 10:47 am
Sandie Sing
Great words of wisdom. Thank you for sharing your mind with us.
October 28, 2013 at 10:49 am
Sherry Hudson
I loved this! Thank you for the fun and motivating thoughts. I’m ready to go.
October 28, 2013 at 10:50 am
julie rowan zoch
Congrats on your book – and the illustrator!!!
October 28, 2013 at 11:22 am
Debra shumaker
Sounds like a fun book. I always love hearing where these books come from. Thanks so much!
October 28, 2013 at 11:23 am
Pia Garneau
Thanks for your inspiring and entertaining post Betsy! Funny how ideas enter our heads sometimes and then there’s the immediate urgency to write it down before it leaves our brains.
October 28, 2013 at 11:27 am
Kathryn Ault Noble
“You’re the paramedic. I think Mom needs medical attention.” So it’s ok that our children think we are nuts? Whew! Thanks, Betsy, and congratulations on your book.
October 28, 2013 at 11:48 am
patientdreamer
What a lovely success story! Congrats on the book contract and thanks for the inspiration.
(Diane Tulloch)
October 28, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Julie Falatko
Some of my best ideas have definitely come to me while I was cooking. I think we should make some kind of “thank potatoes!” exclamation for these ideas. And hurray for SMELLY BABY!
October 28, 2013 at 12:17 pm
Kate Barsotti
Good for you!
October 28, 2013 at 12:18 pm
Janet
Betsy Devany–this blog made me get excited about PiBoIdMo even moreso than I was already! This is my first time signing up, and reading your post gave me goosebumps about getting involved. Thank you for sharing your experiences & congratulations on your book!
October 28, 2013 at 12:24 pm
melaniebellsworth3
Congratulations on SMELLY BABY, Betsy. (What a great title! That alone will make my daughter beg to read it.) I will most definitely be shouting “Whee!” with each new idea this month.
October 28, 2013 at 12:25 pm
wendymyersart
What a great post! I felt like I was along for the ride on my own bright red trike. Thank you for the inspiration and a good laugh.
October 28, 2013 at 12:35 pm
Sherry Alexander
I wish you still had the manuscript The Cat Who Ate Green Peas. My granddaughters would get a kick out of it. Congrats on Smelly Baby, and thank you for sharing a bit of you with us. Psst . . . I’m already laughing!
October 28, 2013 at 12:41 pm
Deb Beauchamp
Congratulations Betsy on Smelly Baby and thanks for the inspiration. I love your thanksgiving story.
October 28, 2013 at 12:44 pm
kirsticall
Yay for your debut picture book! I love your thoughts on how to come up with ideas. This is my first time participating in the PiBo challenge, so I’m excited to have fun and hopefully let the ideas flow!
October 28, 2013 at 12:51 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks so much for your fun inspiring post.
October 28, 2013 at 12:58 pm
mona861
Great post and reminder…ya never know where and when ideas pop up!!!!
Congratulations Congratulations to you and to the daughter’s who let you run to that Smelly Baby!!!
October 28, 2013 at 1:18 pm
Dawn Young
Ready and rarin’ to ride! Thanks for sharing.
October 28, 2013 at 1:21 pm
Rene Aube
I’m so glad to be hanging on the tree with other nuts! Thanks for permission to be silly and enjoy life despite the busyness. Congrats on Smelly Baby, too! Happy to be a part of PiBoIdMo *love the sound of it, too* 🙂
October 28, 2013 at 1:21 pm
Robyn Campbell
Wonderful post! Congrads on all your success. Love your thoughts on finding ideas which are everywhere and I won’t forget this post for a long, long, time. Thanks so much! Smelly Baby sounds like so much fun! I can’t wait to buy it.
October 28, 2013 at 1:38 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Congratulations on Smelly Baby Betsy! Here’s to fanning all of our PiBoIdMo sparks into fully formed flaming ideas – or stars!
October 28, 2013 at 1:54 pm
kjbateman
Tea parties with gorillas? Of course! Lovely post, thank you.
October 28, 2013 at 1:58 pm
Carrie Finison
“The more you write, the more the ideas come.” — that is so true, and great advice. Congratulations on your book contract and for helping to launch us into PiBoIdMo2013.
October 28, 2013 at 2:02 pm
Cindy
LOVED the post, Betsy. Your process of snatching ideas out of nowhere, in the midst of chaos sounds very familiar. 🙂 Forcing myself to write never seemed to work. It is, and always needs to be, a fun process. Thanks!
October 28, 2013 at 2:10 pm
Beth Stilborn
Fantastic post, Betsy! Congratulations on SMELLY BABY — and thank you for all your wonderful, funny advice. Thanks also for bringing to mind my own red tricycle (which was part of my life nearly 55 years ago!) I’m lining up on the start line, ready to yell WHEEEEEEEEE!
October 28, 2013 at 2:11 pm
Noel Csermak
I’m waving too! Oh I just love the starting gate, so much promise.
October 28, 2013 at 2:11 pm
Sue Heavenrich
The best ideas always seem to come when you are busy doing something else: peeling potatoes, turning compost, planting rutabagas… thanks for your wonderful & inspiring post.
October 28, 2013 at 2:18 pm
Kathy Mazurowski
Thanks for sharing and giving us hope.
October 28, 2013 at 2:26 pm
Tracy Molitors
Congratulations, Betsy, and thanks for the advice! Don’t have a tricycle anymore, but I plan to break out the kids old scooters and hit the road!
October 28, 2013 at 2:27 pm
Janie Reinart
Hanging on for the ride! Maybe I can get voted off making Thanksgiving dinner too! 🙂 Betsy enjoyed reading your post! You rock! Congrats on Smelly Baby!
October 28, 2013 at 2:31 pm
robinghoward
Thank you for the reminder to play no matter who is watching 🙂
October 28, 2013 at 2:47 pm
orthodoxmom3
What a wonderful inspirational story! This is the kind of thing I need to hear. Thank you for sharing.
October 28, 2013 at 3:04 pm
Angie Jones
ll my ideas always come when i’m in the midst of doing something else, especially if that thing is enjoyable. I’ll take this post as confirmation and will continue to play. Thanks for sharing and Congrats on the book.
October 28, 2013 at 3:09 pm
WendyWendy Greenley
PiBoIdmo is like my own Cold Stone treat. Thanks for sharing, Betsy!
October 28, 2013 at 3:20 pm
Erin Bylund
Inspiring! Thanks for sharing!
October 28, 2013 at 3:21 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Yay for Smelly Baby! Congratulations! I’m not so sure about your claim to have had only one gorilla/unicorn tea party. Just one, Betsy…? Really…?
October 28, 2013 at 3:29 pm
Darshana
Wonderful post. congratulations!
October 28, 2013 at 3:30 pm
One Happy Writer
That was absolutely amazing, Betsy. Thank you for your encouraging story and wonderful ideas. Just like you, I don’t have my first story I wrote as a kid anymore, I lost everything I cherished and created – drawings, stories, favorite books – when we moved between Aruba and The Netherlands. But there are valuable possessions that stayed with me until this day: my love of writing, illustrating and children’s books. As a first-timer I am excited to find out if PiBoIdMo will bring back some of my childhood creations. Who knows!
October 28, 2013 at 3:36 pm
Romelle Broas
Thanks for sharing your amazing journey towards your first picture book. Congratulations, Betsy. You are right about listening to our children. I should keep a recorder with me at all timed to keep record of the fun things my boys come up with.
October 28, 2013 at 3:43 pm
Suze Albers
Great post. Thanks so much!
October 28, 2013 at 3:47 pm
cat jones
Thanks for sharing your inspiration story. It was an excellent potato crop this year – so maybe all that future peeling will inspire me too!
October 28, 2013 at 4:03 pm
LeslieG
Congratulations, Betsy! And thank you for sharing such a joy-filled — and filling! — post.
October 28, 2013 at 4:15 pm
Jarm Del Boccio
Congrats on “Smelly Baby”, Betsy, and thanks for the boost. I’m looking forward to PiBoIdMo!
October 28, 2013 at 4:26 pm
klmcmorranmaus
I enjoyed reading your article. Thank you.
October 28, 2013 at 4:33 pm
Patricia Tilton
I loved the post.! Very inspiring. Love the red trycycle.
October 28, 2013 at 4:34 pm
Mandy
Fantastic story! And so inspiring. 🙂
October 28, 2013 at 4:39 pm
Anne Duguid
What a fun post–shall be dicing potatoes daily…
October 28, 2013 at 4:54 pm
Ashley Bohmer
Thank you so much.–It’s time to embrace my inner child. 🙂
October 28, 2013 at 5:23 pm
Lori Alexander
Congrats on SMELLY BABY! Love the title and the story behind the story. Thanks, Betsy!
October 28, 2013 at 5:33 pm
mbeaversillustration
Truly inspirational, I love hearing PiBoIdMo success stories!
October 28, 2013 at 5:53 pm
ldk
Congratulations! SMELLY BABY is a wonderful title that kids (and adults) will love! Thanks for sharing your story.
October 28, 2013 at 5:58 pm
writersideup
Oh, Betsy, what a joy to see your beautiful face here on Tara’s blog 😀 I loved the B&W photo, but seeing it in color, you look so vibrant! I hope it’s the one for your jacket flap 😀
I will always remember the first time I read your writing, Betsy; it was on Kathy Temean’s blog here: http://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2010/10/06/betsy-devany-wins-writers-retreat-contest/ .
I was blown away, then again here: http://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2010/10/18/the-winner-is-betsy-devany/
Your talent was SO evident, there was never a doubt that you would be published! I can’t wait to get my hands on SMELLY BABY, but I REALLY want to read one (all!) of your novels! I hope they’re on there way to our greedy reader hands, too! 🙂
Meanwhile, you actually made me consider doing PiBoIdMo, but I have so much on my plate, I can’t bring myself to commit! *sigh* If I didn’t illustrate, I’d be much more inclined lol
Anyway, thanks for the literal laugh-out-loud-to-tears over this: My youngest gave her sister an uneasy look. “You’re the paramedic. I think Mom needs medical attention.”
I love your photos (you’re SUCH a good photographer), I love your writing (including blog posts http://betsydevany.wordpress.com/ ) and I always love your inspirational, touching words, including this post which, btw, actually made me consider doing PiBoIdMo, but I have so much on my plate, I can’t bring myself to commit! *sigh* If I didn’t illustrate, I’d be much more inclined lol
I couldn’t be happier for you 🙂
October 28, 2013 at 6:00 pm
writersideup
*sigh* Oh, I hate typos! I meant “their” instead of “there”! Grrrrr…
October 28, 2013 at 6:06 pm
Shell ledrew
Your words help me understand my ideas are worthwhile protecting and nourishing to completion!
October 28, 2013 at 6:34 pm
Suzanne Kaufman
Great post. Love the banter of your daughters. Gives me inspiration to just play and the stories will come. Thanks.
October 28, 2013 at 6:35 pm
laurazarrin
This was really inspiring to me! Thank you.
October 28, 2013 at 6:39 pm
Kaye Baillie
Thanks, Betsy. Love the real life example of having an idea while in the kitchen. I always find these anecdotes so helpful. And congratulations on Smelly Baby. Will be reading that one day.
October 28, 2013 at 7:00 pm
Pam Brunskill (@PamBrunskill)
Thank you for sharing your story. Time to let the inner child out!
October 28, 2013 at 7:02 pm
Anne Bromley
Very inspiring, Betsy! You capture that youthful banter very skillfully. Thank you for sharing your journey.
October 28, 2013 at 7:04 pm
Pat Holloway
What a great story! Thank you for sharing it.
October 28, 2013 at 7:13 pm
Juliana Lee
I love how you got out of cooking Thanksgiving dinner in order to write. You are my hero!
October 28, 2013 at 7:23 pm
Debra
Great reminder that inspiration can come anytime, any place.
October 28, 2013 at 7:26 pm
jacquesartandbooks
Hi Betsy,
Great post, full of inspiration and wonderful very follow-able advice.
My neighbours already think I’m nuts so no problems with the antics in the backyard.
Yours in Picture Books
Jacque
October 28, 2013 at 8:29 pm
Cindy Schumerth
Ideas do seem to pop up at the strangest times don’t they!
October 28, 2013 at 8:31 pm
Stilllearning
Smelly Baby — so simple and yet so universal!
October 28, 2013 at 8:35 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Congrats on your book, Betsy!
Super post, Betsy 😀 Thanks for the reminder to be playful.
October 28, 2013 at 8:51 pm
Laura L. Madsen
Being silly is the best! Thank you Betsy. 🙂
October 28, 2013 at 8:53 pm
megmillerwrites
Wonderful PiBoIdMo success story Betsy! Can’t wait to see Smelly Baby!! 😀
October 28, 2013 at 8:55 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
Hi, Betsy! Thanks for the inspiration & encouragement. Congrats on Smelly Baby!
October 28, 2013 at 8:56 pm
laurimeyers
So much great news Betsy! Congrats on the upcoming book.
October 28, 2013 at 9:43 pm
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
Betsy, Thank you for sharing, I love your pictures and enthusiasm for writing!
October 28, 2013 at 10:12 pm
Lisa
Thank you so much or sharing, Betsy! This is an excellent post with tons of good advice. =)
October 28, 2013 at 10:58 pm
Donna L Martin
Hi Betsy! I never had a tricycle at a youngster but I sure can see me riding one these days…;~)
Great post!
Donna L Martin
October 28, 2013 at 10:59 pm
viviankirkfield
Congratulations, Betsy! Job well done…both with your first picture book contract AND with this awesome post to get us primed for PiBoIdMo! Each of your ‘tips’ is golden…and I guess, now that we have moved in with our daughter and 5 year old grandson, I have absolutely NO excuse. Jeremy is definitely the best inspiration.:)
October 28, 2013 at 11:06 pm
cheryllovestoread
Great post! Congrats on publishing Smelly Baby. I can’t wait to read it and know it’s a PiBoIdMo baby.
October 28, 2013 at 11:10 pm
Kim Pfennigwerth
Betsy – what a great story and such a generous gift. It proves that you really are one of the nicest people I’ve met through NJ SCBWI 🙂
October 28, 2013 at 11:17 pm
writersideup
…and so are you, Kim, but you already know that 😀 😉
October 28, 2013 at 11:11 pm
Stacy S. Jensen
Congratulations on the new book. Yes. Have fun!
October 28, 2013 at 11:52 pm
Amy Cohas
“Smelly Baby” is a great title! I’m grinning already. Christopher Denise was a classmate of mine at RISD and I remember him as one of the nicest, and most talented students in our graduating class.
October 29, 2013 at 12:17 am
Ping Wan
Thank you so much for this insightful and encouraging post Betsy. I love the statement “… the more you write, the more the ideas come … Write every day, but also live and enjoy your life. The ideas will come, when you’re not so busy chasing them.”
October 29, 2013 at 2:16 am
Laurie Young
Congratulations and thanks for the clever and inspiring story!
October 30, 2013 at 5:08 pm
Laurie L. Young
Name changed to Laurie L. Young.
October 29, 2013 at 3:05 am
Yvonne Mes
Any excuse to act silly! I am looking forward to reading Smelly Baby!
October 29, 2013 at 5:30 am
Elaine Kearns
Thanks so mud for your inspiring post! 🙂
October 29, 2013 at 7:22 am
Pat Haapaniemi
Very Inspiring! Thanks Betsy!
October 29, 2013 at 7:58 am
Gail Kamer
I love those light bulbs moments. Mine usually come at 2 AM.
October 29, 2013 at 8:08 am
writeforapples
Great post. Thanks for sharing!
October 29, 2013 at 8:31 am
Linda Whalen
YAY, another grandma who wants to play. Meet you for a play date at PiBoIdMo:)
October 29, 2013 at 9:15 am
Wafa
I was so pleased to read Bety’s blog. I have met her in person and corresponded with her on email. She is every bit as delightful as she comes off in her posting!!!! I loved the story about the chopped potatoes and thanksgiving dinner!!!!
October 29, 2013 at 9:19 am
Carol Nelson
Thanks for the inspiration! I love the Gorilla. I think I’ll ask Santa for one. 🙂
October 29, 2013 at 9:20 am
Eileen
Sounds fun!
October 29, 2013 at 9:54 am
Kathy Moncrief
Betsy, thanks more than you could ever know for your post! I’ve just finished writing and illustrating my FIRST book and am wading into the pool gingerly. Sadly my decades of experience as an art director in the ad biz did nothing to prepare me for this second (what I hope will become my new) career! I love your energy and sense of humor, and am so glad I read your post first! I’m diving in!!!
October 29, 2013 at 9:57 am
Jennifer Kaap
Great success story! Betsy sounds like a barrel of fun!
October 29, 2013 at 10:31 am
Teresa Daffern
I love that you embrace your silly side. I do too! Perhaps not enough, but what a great way to tap into ideas and to see things from a child’s perspective.
-Teresa Daffern
October 29, 2013 at 11:00 am
Jewel Sample
I love your analogy of our ideas as being bank deposits…nothing is wasted. I like to sit at a fast food place for kids and watch them interact. It is amazing the story ideas that pop into my head. Thank you for sharing your writing experience.
October 29, 2013 at 11:36 am
Jennifer DuBose
Haha! I adore this post! You and your kids remind me of me and mine, about which I write in my weekly column. I felt like I was in the kitchen with you. Wonderful! Many thanks for reminding me that I’m not alone in my zaniness, and for this fabulous critique opportunity!
October 29, 2013 at 11:38 am
Jacki Morris
very relatable and inspiring – congratulations on your well-earned success!
October 29, 2013 at 2:20 pm
Stacy Couch
Congrats on SMELLY BABY! Oh my goodness, playtime with you sounds like heaven. MUST be all British when riding a stick pony. And MUST sing rock opera when building Play-Doh rock bots.
October 29, 2013 at 4:03 pm
Mary Jo
I secretly wish my kids would vote me out of the kitchen. Would love to hear a part 2 about the path to finding Christy Ottaviano!
October 29, 2013 at 4:33 pm
Julie Grasso
I really enjoyed your post Betsy. I have moments when the inspiration strikes and my husband can get no sense out of me too.
October 29, 2013 at 7:19 pm
thiskidreviewsbooks
You sound like someone I would like. I like adults who act like myself (I am a kid 🙂 ) and that they have lots of fun. I bet you would like my math teacher too. 🙂 Great post!
October 29, 2013 at 7:20 pm
Amanda Smith
Thank you for reminding us to have fun and connect with our inner silly!
October 29, 2013 at 8:11 pm
Kayleen West - Children's Author/Illustrator
Congratulations, Betsy. You can tell by your post that you have a voice for children’s stories. I am sure there will be many more to come 🙂
October 29, 2013 at 9:14 pm
Lynn A. Davidson
I thoroughly enjoyed this post. I agree with Erik (thiskidreviewsbooks), you sound like someone I would like. 🙂
You offered such great (fun) advice. Thanks.
October 29, 2013 at 9:29 pm
ammwrite
Loved your post, Betsy. I am new to this journey, and your success story is inspiring! Thanks for sharing. Ann Magee
October 29, 2013 at 9:41 pm
katemeixner
Very inspiring! You just made me hungry for Thanksgiving dinner. And ideas!
October 29, 2013 at 10:48 pm
dee win
betsy- your two words of advice sum it all up. i think many adults (and unfortunately a lot of children) are too busy/stressed out to just have fun. thank you!
October 30, 2013 at 7:03 am
FLOWER T
Funny, fun and inspiring post. Thanks!
October 30, 2013 at 9:48 am
lindamartinandersen
Two critiques. By all means, enter my name in this one! Betsy, you definitely show a love of life and the right idea about having fun.
October 30, 2013 at 10:55 am
kathydoherty1
Betsy, you are an inspiration! SMELLY BABY will be here before you know it!
October 30, 2013 at 11:51 am
Abigail
Great inspiration– thank you!
October 30, 2013 at 12:07 pm
schriscoe
Thanks for sharing Betsy!
October 30, 2013 at 12:13 pm
Jenifer Heidorn
What a joy to embrace advice that says, “Have fun and be silly!”
October 30, 2013 at 1:01 pm
Beverly Snedecor
Congratulations on your smelly baby, and I’m so glad I’m not the only one who has stuffies! Thank you for the inspiration!
October 30, 2013 at 1:33 pm
Catherine Johnson
I love all that acting like a kid stuff. My husband is going to be rolling his eyes all month lol. Lovely inspiring post and congrats on Smelly Baby.
October 30, 2013 at 3:00 pm
MummyTheFunny (@EmiHowe)
Have been uming and ahhing over this year’s PiBoIdMo. Your blog changed the “ahh ums” into: “let’s get this done”. thank you xx
October 30, 2013 at 4:36 pm
marciecolleen
Maybe someday Norman and my mischevious sock monkey, Bloois, can have a playdate! Thanks for the post, Betsy. Keep in dicing!
October 30, 2013 at 7:32 pm
Carrie Brown
I can use more silly in my life right now! Thanks for the fun approach!
October 30, 2013 at 9:40 pm
Lynn Ann Carol
You are my kinda girl. Now I have to go to the back hall and get my stick pony out. Perhaps she needs a bowl of oats tomorrow before the BIG day begins. I hope you won’t mind if I call her Betsy?
I loved every second of reading your inspiration. (Especially the Thanksgiving scene, lol)
Thanks,
Lynn
October 30, 2013 at 10:54 pm
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Love the gorilla. Thank you for sharing your story!
October 31, 2013 at 1:31 am
Dorina Lazo Gilmore
I love the reminder to be silly & have fun with our work! As writers who get rejection letters and agonize over sentences and swim in a sea of deadlines, it’s easy to lose the silly side. I’m excited to get mine back this month!
October 31, 2013 at 5:59 am
Ellen Wrin
Congrats, Betsy! Thanks for the inspiration and the reminder to have fun. 🙂
October 31, 2013 at 6:32 am
Andrea
Thanks for reminding me about how ideas appear at ANY time and how it’s important to feed the muse by having fun! I love your idea of putting stars on the calendar for your ideas, too.
October 31, 2013 at 1:50 pm
Lori Dubbin
Thank you, Betsy, for reminding us how important process is, for sharing your story, and to have fun.
October 31, 2013 at 8:10 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
Feed the muse–don’t worry about feeding the family. That’s what I’m taking away from this:>)
October 31, 2013 at 11:07 pm
City Sights for Kids
What a fun post – I love your stories about inspiration striking and your source of fuel!
– Amanda Sincavage
October 31, 2013 at 11:50 pm
SevenAcreSky
Betsy. Best two word advice ever. Have. Fun.
Thanks for such an encouraging post, and a great kickoff down the the hill for PiBoIdMo. I won’t chop potatoes again without remembering this. Thanks, Damon Dean
November 1, 2013 at 8:00 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Fun post Betsy. Thanks for sharing your tips. Congratulations on Smelly Baby!!!
November 1, 2013 at 9:24 am
Kari Allen (@Kari_D_Allen)
Thanks Betsy!
November 1, 2013 at 9:49 am
Heather Hatch
I hopped over to read your blog. What a lucky toy store- and grandaughter- to have you! Now hunting down a tiny calendar to fill with stars…
November 1, 2013 at 11:52 am
danacarey1
Fun post with some great advice. Congrats on your SMELLY BABY!
November 1, 2013 at 5:46 pm
Melanie Vickers
I love that you are a Grandmother. I love how your daughters move you aside to do the cooking. I love the fun you have every day.
November 1, 2013 at 6:38 pm
girlvsweather
I’m totally intrigued by “Smelly Baby”! Good one!
November 1, 2013 at 7:13 pm
Sarah Maynard
Have Fun is my favorite advice! Thanks!!
November 2, 2013 at 4:50 am
bucherwurm65
I look forward to reading Smelly Baby! Congrats! Carol Breedlove
November 2, 2013 at 1:24 pm
throughtheprairiegardengate
Playing with the grands = Creative writing ideas and thoughts. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
November 2, 2013 at 3:16 pm
Marcy P.
This was a lot of fun. Thanks for sharing your journey- and your conversation with your daughters 🙂 hee hee
November 4, 2013 at 12:33 am
Jen Carroll
Thanks for the encouragement to play! I needed that!
November 4, 2013 at 10:00 am
Jennifer Ali
I love those moments when the idea strikes, congrats!
November 4, 2013 at 5:58 pm
Dani Duck
You got a book out of the deal and you were fired from making Thanksgiving dinner? Talk about a double whammy of awesome!
November 4, 2013 at 9:09 pm
Cathy C. Hall
BIG congrats on your Smelly Baby! 🙂
November 5, 2013 at 10:51 pm
Julie Campbell
Great post! Love your sense of humor and LOVE the title, Smelly Baby! Best wishes for continued success.
November 8, 2013 at 7:47 am
Juliet Clare Bell
Congratulations! And sound advice.
November 9, 2013 at 1:26 am
artsyandi
Such a great reminder to embrace being silly. Love your humor.
November 18, 2013 at 1:46 pm
underthemapleleaves
Congratulations and thank you for encouraging and inspiring us.
PS Love your sheltie and the little girl with Norman is a cutie too!
November 24, 2013 at 6:18 pm
carolmunrojww
Congrats on Smelly Baby. I hope you give us all a heads up when it comes out in ’16. I think we are kindred spirits. I don’t cook, and the little pendulum clock in my office wears Shrek ears. 😉 Thanks for the pep talk.
November 30, 2013 at 9:33 am
Jeanette
I can’t wait to read Smelly Baby!
November 30, 2013 at 2:21 pm
Heather
Thanks for the advice. I’m on my red tricycle, shouting “Whee!”
December 3, 2013 at 6:38 pm
Sue Rankin
Thank you for your energy, inspiration, and a great way to get out of cooking a big family meal ever again! 😀
(I loved Caps For Sale, too! Oddly, I’d forgotten about it till it resurfaced this year. It’s on my list of books to purchase as I rebuild my childhood library.)
December 4, 2013 at 2:09 pm
Sherry Walz
This was a fun post to read, Betsy! I especially like the advice that you passed on from your father. Thanks for sharing.
November 11, 2015 at 12:48 pm
Jeanine Potter Lovell
Thank you for sharing this great post- and your dad’s advice.