The best part of the whole picture book making process, for me, is that moment when the idea comes—that SPARK happens—and there’s ignition!
It’s mystical, it’s mysterious, it’s magical, it’s COSMIC!
But how do we get to that point where this happens—where “channel D” opens and the idea pops?
For me, it’s just one of those things that can’t be forced. I’m guaranteed not to think up any ideas when I tell myself I have to come up with an idea.
So how do I get primed for the muses to start singing? If I knew a sure-fire secret formula, I would certainly share it with you. But I do know two powerful “tools” that seem to work for me: procrastination and doodling. . . and the beauty of it is, you don’t have to be an artist or illustrator to do either one!
Each one works in it’s own way. There’s research showing that procrastination can lead to creativity, and that doodling can help us think. Combine the two and you set yourself up for some creative thinking!
Certainly, there are merits to doing both independently, but I’ve found when I combine the two, my ideas—always in the form of characters—begin to appear. I call it procrastidoodling, and it’s what I was doing when I came up with the star of my picture book, HENNY.
A few years ago, I was assiduously avoiding an assignment for a class I was taking by drawing all sorts of birds. As I doodled along, I found myself thinking about how silly it is that some birds have wings that are relatively useless—birds like dodos and ostritches and chickens. . .
. . .when out popped a doodle of a chicken with arms! Much more useful, I thought. So I started thinking about all the things a chicken with arms could do…and Henny was born!
Since then, all sorts of characters have popped into my life—and all of them started out as procrastidoodles.
So try this: First, do something you think is frivilous. Waste some time watching a funny video, go for a walk, get relaxed. Then start doodling. Maybe listen to some favorite music while you do it. The trick is not to have any expectations about what you doodle. Trust me, it will free you up to get those ideas flowing. See how many Piboidmo ideas you get.
Who knows, maybe one of them will lead you, like the White Rabbit did Alice, down the rabbit hole to a whole new world—where your picture book will come alive!
Oh—and here’s a great TED talk on doodling. Why not procrastinate for a bit and watch it?
Thank you ! And thank you, Tara, for this opportunity to participate in PiBoIdMo. Have fun everyone!
Elizabeth grew up in Western New York State, studied art history in college, and went on to graduate school to earn a professional degree in architecture. While raising her kids, she kept herself sane by drawing portraits—mostly of other people’s kids—and did some fine art and scientific illustration. Upon completion of her maternal duties, she discovered that all of her architect- brain-cells had died, so she turned to drawing and painting full-time—FOR other people’s kids—and hasn’t looked back since.
Her debut picture book, HENNY (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books), will be released in early January. She recently signed a contract for a new picture book, due out in 2015, about a little pig named Peddles, also with Simon & Schuster.
Elizabeth is represented by Joanna Volpe of New Leaf Literary & Media in New York, and is a member of SCBWI International, and SCBWI Western Washington.
Visit her at PensPaperStudio.com, her blog, or follow her on Twitter @penspaperstudio.
Elizabeth is giving away a signed copy of HENNY once it’s released!
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
322 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 12, 2013 at 6:38 am
Elaine Kiely Kearns
You already know that I am a huge fan, Elizabeth! Thanks for the insight into your creative process. Procrastidoodles- ha! Love it!
November 19, 2013 at 5:38 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Elaine 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 6:40 am
Nancy Armo
Well done Beth!
November 12, 2013 at 6:43 am
kirsticall
Great idea Elizabeth! I’ll try it today…
November 12, 2013 at 6:47 am
Erin Bylund
I love chickens! And henny is so cute! I give my husband a chicken picture book each year for Christmas (it’s a long story). I’ll be excited to read henny when it comes out!
November 19, 2013 at 5:36 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Henny’s liking the sound of this, Erin… thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 6:49 am
cat jones
Procrastidoodles – what a lovely word. There are so many procrastination options in my life (stroking the cat, fussing in the greenhouse, digging my veg, patch etc) I love the idea of adding another. I’ll see where it takes me…
🙂
November 12, 2013 at 6:55 am
erin
Thank you for the inspiration!
November 12, 2013 at 6:56 am
Tania Cole
just tried it and procrastidoddles did give me an idea, just hoping it continues to grow into a picture book. thanks
November 12, 2013 at 7:07 am
Susan Cabael
“There’s research showing that procrastination can lead to creativity.” Hmm…if this is true, I’ll be golden! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 7:07 am
B Lee Draper
“Procrastidoodles’ – love it! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 7:11 am
Jen DuBose
Ha ha! Love Henny and can relate to your process. Congrats!
November 12, 2013 at 7:11 am
Patrick Waldron
Hoor-AH! Thank you for starting on a positive note.
November 12, 2013 at 7:14 am
Helen Ross
Procrastidoodles is such a wonderful word – doesn’t sound like time wasting at all but rather a creative energy. Love it! An inspiring post Elizabeth.
November 12, 2013 at 7:21 am
Sue Poduska
Procrastidoodles sounds like another great idea to me. You have my permission to watch more videos.
November 12, 2013 at 7:22 am
DianeKHower
Enjoyed the post and thanks for sharing the Ted Talk.
Doddle On!
November 12, 2013 at 7:30 am
Eileen
Thanks for sharing what works for you. Love “procrastidoodling”
November 12, 2013 at 7:36 am
Heather Greene
Thanks Elizabeth! Getting out my sketchbook and pencils…..going now.
November 12, 2013 at 7:46 am
nicole snitselaar
Thanks !
Makes me feel like doing doodles but I am a bit scared of the result ! 😉
November 12, 2013 at 8:01 am
gpatmiller
Your web site doodles are as inspirational as your post. Thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 8:08 am
One Happy Writer
Thank you for your wonderful post Elizabeth. I enjoy doodling (doodles everywhere) and now I even have a valid reason to do them. I’m procrastidoodling 😉
November 12, 2013 at 8:11 am
saputnam
Great post, Elizabeth! Procrastidoodles… so that’s what I’m doing when I should be writing and am covering my paper with all sorts of doodles? Glad to have a name for it : )
“There’s research showing that procrastination can lead to creativity, and that doodling can help us think.” Now I can tell people that I an not wasting time but am actually helping my muse by being creative.
November 12, 2013 at 8:13 am
Kim Pfennigwerth (@kpfenni)
Love the doodling and can’t wait for Henny!
November 12, 2013 at 8:21 am
Juliana Lee
I’m not a doodler, but I love the video and it makes me think I should pick it up as an alternative thinking mode. PS… a wingless chicken is the bane of Buffalo Wings and Things (and my husband)!
November 12, 2013 at 8:24 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
You have inspired me more than you will ever know. Thank you
November 12, 2013 at 8:28 am
Joanne Sher
So very clever! Love this idea. Thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 8:28 am
katmaz2012
I can’t wait to start procratidoodling. Thank you!
November 12, 2013 at 8:31 am
Donna L. Sadd
Yours was a kismet post for me today, Elizabeth. I wasn’t doodling, but I woke up this morning with a picture in my head. I ran into my office and drew it and it changed the whole perspective of a story I had been contemplating on how to approach. Thank you. P.S. Your art makes me giggle. :0)
November 19, 2013 at 5:40 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Kismet! That’s what I like to hear. Keep on giggling 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 8:32 am
Russ Hogle
I have been a Master of Procrastidoodles for a long time and never knew it! Thanks for bringing it to my attention. Now I should probably get back to work.
November 12, 2013 at 8:36 am
Pat Haapaniemi
Never was a doodler but after your post and the video, I’m definitely ready to give it try! Thanks for sharing!
November 12, 2013 at 8:47 am
Susan Nicholas
What a great (and fun) way of coming up with ideas. I plan to spend some time today procrastidoodling.
November 12, 2013 at 8:48 am
Rene Aube
If I were an illustrator, I would DEFINITELY be a procrastidoodler! I successfully avoid many things…maybe I should procrastiwrite? Happy #PiBoItMo day 12!
November 12, 2013 at 8:49 am
Tina Cho
Wow, I didn’t know doodling was so important. Great TED talk. I’ll try to doodle today!
November 12, 2013 at 8:50 am
marciecolleen
I usually procrasti-tinkle ( head to bathroom whenever I’m stuck). The walk and time away from my desk do me good. But perhaps I should try doodling. :). Thanks for the great post!
November 12, 2013 at 8:53 am
jheitman22
You’ve coined a great word and it works for you well! I am not a draw-er, but I am a doodler of geometric designs. I’ll have to take a closer look and see what I see. Thanks for the TED talk, too–good food for thought. Congratulations on HENNY and future success!
November 12, 2013 at 8:55 am
Margie Moore
Absolutely love this post. Really good at the procrastination part, the doodling part-not so much! Will give it a try! Thank you!
November 12, 2013 at 8:58 am
Lisa Nissen
I’m no artist, but I’m really good at doodling when I’m supposed to be listening. I guess I know what I’m going to be doing during my meeting today. 😉
November 12, 2013 at 8:59 am
rgstones
What a cute chicken! I’m going to try some doodling today. I’ve already got the procrastinating part down. 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 9:01 am
Deb Dudley
LOVE idea of procrastidoodling! Henny is an uber-cute chic! Can’t wait to see her on the shelves! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 9:04 am
writeknit
Noodling while doodling! I love it. Permission to doodle all the day coming my way! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 9:05 am
Anne Bielby
Off to doodle!
November 12, 2013 at 9:05 am
jdrury002
I have never thought of procrastination in positive terms, let alone the starting point for ideas. I may have to reconsider how I view procrastination!
November 12, 2013 at 9:05 am
writeknit
Reblogged this on In My Words and commented:
Permission to doodle! Great post today for PiBoIdMo 🙂
November 19, 2013 at 5:42 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks for spreading the word!
November 12, 2013 at 9:12 am
Cindy Cornwall
Love the idea and your characters.Wish I could stop procrasti-drinking-tea and procrasti-surfing-the-web long enough to procrasti-doodle! Thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 9:17 am
Joanne Roberts
Thank-you for unique ideas to inspire, Procrastidoodles and Sunni Brown’s TED talk.
November 12, 2013 at 9:19 am
Vikk Simmons
Totally enjoyed this post this morning. What a great illustration of process.
November 12, 2013 at 9:20 am
Wendy Greenley
Holy smoke, I hope there’s a story to go with the first rabbit/rocket image! I can’t draw a whit but I doodle images in my head.
November 12, 2013 at 9:25 am
Lynn A. Davidson
This is another post that is freeing (the TED talk, too) if we allow ourselves to just go with it. Thanks. I hadn’t thought of doodling to help me think of pb ideas; it’s certainly worth a try.
November 12, 2013 at 9:28 am
Denise Bowman
Procrastidoodling! How I love this idea!! Thank you fora fun post!
November 12, 2013 at 9:29 am
Tatiana Escallon
Thanks for the process tip, I’ll try it, and yes, that hen with arms makes me smile!
November 12, 2013 at 9:30 am
Melanie Ellsworth
I almost cheered (okay, I did cheer) when you recommended procrastinating because it’s what I’m best at. I’m off to watch the TED talk on doodling instead of revising my picture book!
November 12, 2013 at 9:32 am
Lori Dubbin
I didn’t think I was an artist so I can’t remember the last time I doodled. You and the TED talk you shared convince me it’s something I NEED to do and probably something I stopped doing after kindergarten. Today is the start of my procrastidoodling! Thank you!
November 12, 2013 at 9:33 am
creationsbymit
SOOOOOOOOOOOO happy to see ERS being featured in this blog! I’ve been following Henny & her other wacky creatures for almost 2 yrs after discovering them through Illustration Friday. So excited for Henny’s debut & learn of ERS’ *next* book project!!!!! And as an avid doodler myself, I agree 100% with this post! 🙂
Michele Katz/Creations By Mit
November 19, 2013 at 5:44 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Hey, Michele! So good to see you here… now, get back to work! 😉
November 12, 2013 at 9:33 am
Kathy
Thanks for giving a name to what I’d always thought of as a creative affliction! Procrastidoodle! Now I don’t have to hide it!!
November 12, 2013 at 9:37 am
Alisa Harris-Norico
What a great term for that sort of doodling! I’ve been finding myself doing the same when I’m having trouble thinking up ideas this month. I find using colored pencils or crayons help me let go of making a ‘nice’ drawing and just lets me play. Best of luck with Henny, the book looks so fun!
November 12, 2013 at 9:39 am
Catherine Johnson
I am going to write Procrastidoodles everything, that is awesome! I can’t wait for Penny she looks very funky. Thanks and best wishes.
November 12, 2013 at 9:41 am
fashionistaphilly.tumblr.org
I love the illustration on top was so cute and adorable! There is insipration in procrastination after all hooray!!!
November 12, 2013 at 9:41 am
shirley ng-benitez
YAY Elizabeth!! I’m SO incredibly happy to see this post and can’t wait to see Henny! And congratulations on Peddles. Thank you Tara and thanks Elizabeth for a great idea..combining the two sounds like a great way to come up with concepts and characters that aren’t “forced”. Can’t wait to start trying this out!
November 19, 2013 at 5:46 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Shirley– I think you’re already pretty good at the doodling/drawing part– for sure!
November 12, 2013 at 9:46 am
danacarey1
Procrastidoodles! Yes. Thanks,Elizabeth, for a fun blog post that will remind me to ddodle more while procrastinating so I won’t feel bad about procrastinating at all!
November 19, 2013 at 5:48 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
DO doodle more, Dana. 😉 Thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 9:49 am
Nancy Churnin
Thanks for the great post, I am happy to welcome the word procrastidoodling into my vocabulary and my life.
November 12, 2013 at 9:50 am
barbaradilorenzo
I love Elizabeth Rose Stanton’s work! And now I can feel justified in procrastinating! Thank you for the new vocab word: procrastidoodling!
November 19, 2013 at 5:54 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Likewise, Barbara. 🙂 Thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 9:50 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks – I think I can do that!
November 12, 2013 at 9:52 am
Sandy Perlic
What a great idea! Anytime we can free our minds up enough to withhold judgment is a great opportunity for our creativity to emerge. Thanks for the encouragement to “think” in different ways.
November 12, 2013 at 9:52 am
Debbie Austin
Thanks, Elizabeth. I never considered doodling as part of my creative process. Procrastination? Now that one I’ve got. Thanks for the idea of putting them together. Henny is adorable, by the way.
November 12, 2013 at 9:53 am
Lori Alexander
I love the word “procrastidoodle” and I love the idea of a chicken with arms! Congrats on your recent sales & thanks for the post!
November 12, 2013 at 9:56 am
Jewel Sample
The rabbit and dirty bird illustration is so funny. I would love to read about what lead you to visualize, draw and share it. Doodling and procrastinating sounds like something to try. i love to listen to the Pink Panther theme song..maybe I will try doodling instead of writing. thank you for sharing.
November 12, 2013 at 9:56 am
Maria Gianferrari
I’m definitely the queen of frittering 🙂 but it’s good to know some alternative ways to channel those procrastination tendencies. The mind works in mysterious ways.
I just love chickens, and Henny and your other sketches are absolutely adorable.
Thanks for the great advice, Elizabeth! Off to try some procrastidoodling!
November 12, 2013 at 10:01 am
cherylsec
This sounds fun! I’m not an artist, but I definitely want to give this a try. Thanks so much for sharing!
November 12, 2013 at 10:02 am
Heather Gale
your Henny is so sweet and so worthy of being in a story! Thanks for sharing the Ted Talk on doodling – I now have actual proof I’m okay!! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 10:04 am
cantsing1
Love it! I fought for outlets for years in public high schools! Had a loom in my Eng/Social Studies class for students to move to when needed. So glad there is intellectual support behind these “less than norm” activities!
November 19, 2013 at 5:55 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Me, too! Thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 10:05 am
Robyn Campbell
BWAAK! Hahaha. Procrastidoodling is such a cool new word. And just think. You coined it! It’s written down by my computer. And heck. It inspires me just to say it. Thanks so much. (Though my doodles look a little like a 2 year-old doodles. 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 10:07 am
Pam Jones
You lit my spark and I’m ready to dOOdle! 😀
November 12, 2013 at 10:10 am
Jill Lyttle Tadros
Doodling. My favorite pastime!
November 12, 2013 at 10:12 am
kathalsey
I love that procrastination is endorsed! I have noticed that I doddle w/some sort of pic on every PiBoId Mo I have. Henny sounds realy cute!
November 12, 2013 at 10:14 am
Iris Diamond
Awesome idea. I love animals with hands and procrastidoodle – would make a great picture book title as well :). Giving it a scientific name makes it definitely more official and ok.
November 19, 2013 at 5:59 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
I love that you call it a scientific name, Iris– and I think we can make it even more official — how about, “diagramus procrastidoodleus?” 😉
November 12, 2013 at 10:15 am
svaisnoras
Love this idea…will definitely do. Love Henny too.
November 12, 2013 at 10:18 am
Jessie Miller (@pigknit)
Henny was brought up during a SCBWI conference in my region last year and I thought it sounded hilarious and right up my alley. I also never knew Elizabeth Rose Stanton grew up in WNY, I grew up and currently live there too! I hope I someday escape like she did 😮 Great post. Love procrastinating. Love doodling.
November 19, 2013 at 6:01 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Awww– Jessie! Small world! You’re making me homesick 😉 PS I’m glad HENNY’s getting around!
November 12, 2013 at 10:18 am
MichelleLynn
Thank you, Elizabeth. I would love to see the research about procrastination. I, being a pro at it, have always seen procrastination more of a plague than a tool to encourage creativity. Thank you for that shift of paradigm. Happy writing!
November 12, 2013 at 10:18 am
Pam Brunskill (@PamBrunskill)
Looking forward to reading HENNY when it comes out! Congratulations.
November 12, 2013 at 10:28 am
Dana Atnip
Looks like I need to create some Procrastidoodles! I look forward to reading Henny! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 10:29 am
belindambrock
Thanks for sharing—and congrats on the books!
November 12, 2013 at 10:31 am
Marty McCormick
Sounds too good to be true! But I’m willing to give it a try. Thanks for the twist on procrastinating. I certainly manage to do enough of it.
November 12, 2013 at 10:31 am
lindaschueler
Oh good, now I don’t feel so bad about my tendency to procrastinate.
November 12, 2013 at 10:31 am
Jessie Oliveros
Doodling had become an important part of the creative process for me when I write my middle grade novels as well!
November 12, 2013 at 10:32 am
Stephanie Shaw
Another great post! Thank you, Elizabeth. And, Tara, thank you for inviting such inspiring people to share their creativity and talent.
November 12, 2013 at 10:33 am
storyfairy
Procrastidoodling, huh? That sounds great!
November 12, 2013 at 10:34 am
preachteach
I procrastinate and doodle all the time… i must be very creative- haha 🙂 Thanks!!
November 12, 2013 at 10:38 am
Sharon Wildey Calle
I agree- time spent doodling is time well spent!
November 12, 2013 at 10:56 am
julie rowan zoch
You go, girl! Miss Froggie in the polka-dot dress is my absolute favorite character not yet seen in a book – get her there, Elizabeth! Thanks for the video too!
November 19, 2013 at 6:03 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Hey, Julie! One of these days, Ms. PolkaDot Froggie will push her way to the fore. She appreciates the vote of confidence! Thanks!
November 12, 2013 at 10:57 am
Angela De Groot
Procrastidoodling. Bwaaak! I’m on it. Good luck, Henny.
November 19, 2013 at 6:04 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Angela! Bwaaak right back atcha!!
November 12, 2013 at 10:59 am
lindamsorenson
Henny rocks, Elizabeth! Great way to start my day! Grabbing markers and paper – now.
November 12, 2013 at 11:00 am
Dana Schlingman
Awesome – someone telling me to waste time. For once I won’t feel bad about it :^ )
November 12, 2013 at 11:03 am
Sue Heavenrich
I love the idea of procrastidoodling… anything that begins with procrast- suits me just fine right now. Maybe the doodling jiggles the tendons connecting the hocks to the brain? no matter… looking for colored pencils to take to work so I can doodle in style during my break.
November 19, 2013 at 7:34 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Hmmm…jiggledoodling. I like it!
November 12, 2013 at 11:09 am
teresamis
Wait, I’ve got to procrastidoodle before I write this post. 😉 Thanks, Elizabeth
November 12, 2013 at 11:13 am
danielledufayet
How fun! Love your characters – full of personality like you! Thanks for sharing.
November 12, 2013 at 11:16 am
The Backdoor Artist
So, the longer I put of laundry, the more creative I will be! Now there’s a plan I can live with!
November 12, 2013 at 11:17 am
Jennifer Kaap
Procrastidoodles… what a great word! I’m looking forward to reading Henny. Congrats!
November 12, 2013 at 11:19 am
Linda
These are great! I have procrastination down pretty good, so maybe a little no-art-ability-doodling will get my writing muse fired up. Thanks you!
November 12, 2013 at 11:19 am
Ashley Bankhead
Thank you for the post and the fun ideas. Time to do some procrastidoodles.
November 12, 2013 at 11:21 am
Amanda Smith
My favorite manuscript came out of a doodle on a tiny scrap of paper. I religiously save that little doodle – who knows, perhaps one day it will appear on the end-pages of my book.
November 12, 2013 at 11:22 am
LovableLobo
Inspiring! While I’m not a procrastinator, I do LOVE to doodle and silly made up words!
November 12, 2013 at 11:27 am
Angela Turner
This suggestion is wonderful because I am very good at procrastinating and I love to doodle. Now I have a good excuse to do it more!
November 12, 2013 at 11:30 am
angelapenadahle
I was doing just this w/ my kiddos over the weekend! Except I was doodling my kids doodles. I was converting their doodles into a reproduction-my version, my way. They seemed to enjoy my take on their drawings. It did indeed give me a PiBo idea! Thanks for the grand post!
November 19, 2013 at 6:06 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
What a good idea. I’ll bet they loved it!
November 12, 2013 at 11:33 am
Ellen Mott
Procrastidoodling – Put that wonderful word in the dictionary! Could there be procrastiwriting as well? Sometimes I just write to be writing, and it might involve making circles to keep the hand and brain busy. Never know when an idea will hit. However, I may bring out the rabbits and bears I used to draw with simple circles and ovals.
Great presentation! I love your illustrating style, and the funny profile picture on your website. Happy doodling!
November 12, 2013 at 11:34 am
Mary Jane
I love love LOVE this post. Thanks Elizabeth. Your inspiring doodle ideas are exactly what I needed today to keep going with PiBo. I look forward to reading your new book when it is released. Today is going to be a doodle day in my sketchbook. Wohoo. I love to doodle but I thought it was procrastinating in order to avoid chores and responsibilities. So I’ve been trying not to doodle. But now I have permission. Woohoo.
November 12, 2013 at 11:43 am
mlucero30
LOVE!!! Thanks for the permission to doodle! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 11:50 am
Theanna
Procrastidoodles- Love that word! I tend to doodle quite a bit, especially when trying to come up with new ideas or characters. It’s great to give it a name. Thank you for the great post and now I know my doodles actually serve a purpose when I feel like I’m not accomplishing much. Also, I love Henny- very cute! Best of luck to you!
November 12, 2013 at 11:52 am
LeeAnn Jensen
Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing your procrastination ideas. I do a lot of similar things. And to add doodling is a great idea. I will be procrastidoodling a lot now!
November 12, 2013 at 11:59 am
Sandie Sing
Procastidoodling…what a fabulous word for doodling ideas. Love it. You have redeveloped doodling into a whole new level. Thanks for sharing this wonderful idea!
November 12, 2013 at 12:06 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Permission to procrastinate AND doodle??? Yippee! I’m off to procrastidoodle and see what fun ideas happen! Henny sounds wonderful! Thanks for a fun post.
November 12, 2013 at 12:11 pm
Julene Kinser
Thank you, Elizabeth, for the post and the TED talk. Best of success with Henny. We used to have 3 pet hens: Henny, Minerva, and Louise, named after favorite picture book characters. 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 12:14 pm
Malena Fuentes
I can´t, really, can’t translate procrastidoodle…
November 19, 2013 at 6:07 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Procrastidoodle = Stop what you’re doing and draw 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 12:15 pm
Alison Hertz
I have been following you on facebook for years and enjoying all of your illustrations. Congratulations on Henny and Peddles. I am a dedicated doodler (as one can see in my daily posts). I love learning about where Henny came from. If anyone is interested in a supportive community of doodlers, check out the Doodle Day group on facebook!
November 19, 2013 at 7:36 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Yes– you certainly are a dedicated doodler, Alison 🙂 Thanks for the good wishes!
November 12, 2013 at 12:24 pm
abrianc
That’s a great idea you got from doodling! I don’t always doodle well (surprising for an illustrator right?), mostly because I end up tuning out what I’m supposed to be listening to (which is why I stopped doodling way back in high school and now have to get back in the habit)! Great post, thank you!
November 12, 2013 at 12:25 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Procrastidoodles . . . love it!
And thanks for the TED video share!!
November 12, 2013 at 12:26 pm
Ann Birnie
Elizabeth – Thanks for reminding me to go back and look at my doodles. I knew there was reason I have been saving them for all these many years!
November 12, 2013 at 12:31 pm
Lisasa Anchin
Yay Elizabeth! So excited for the release of Henny! Procrastinating and doodling are two of my favorite things. Going to do both today. =)
November 12, 2013 at 12:32 pm
Lisa
Yay Elizabeth! So excited for the release of Henny! Thanks for the excellent post. I love procrastinating and doodling… in fact, I’m going to do both of them today!
November 12, 2013 at 12:32 pm
tpierce
This was great! I love hearing how your characters evolved and the video convinced me that I have to incorporate doodling into my daily life. Thank you, Elizabeth!
November 12, 2013 at 12:41 pm
Dorothy Wiese
I love Henny, and I’m glad that doodling gave her birth. Your story is interesting too. I love people’s personal stories!
November 12, 2013 at 12:44 pm
LeslieG
LOVE this idea! This is definitely one I want to try. Thank you!
November 12, 2013 at 12:44 pm
Linda Thompson
Great idea – procrastidoodle! Henny is adorable! Can’t wait to read all about her!
November 12, 2013 at 12:45 pm
Mary Jo
Procrastination is my gold-medal event! Thanks for encouraging me to continue my well-honed craft. 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 12:55 pm
Teresa Daffern
Elizabeth – I love the way you think. I also love the part in your bio about the “completion of maternal duties” and that by then, all your architect brain cells had “died”. (I sympathize!) I love your illustrations and think that what you do is gift to the world of picture books.
November 12, 2013 at 12:58 pm
Britta jones
Wonderful! I actually came up with a character idea the other day and I love the process of imagining everything that character can do with its assets or disabilities. Thanks for the extra push to get a story started!
November 12, 2013 at 1:03 pm
Jacki Morris
Henny is a hoot – love those arms! Good luck with your books! They sound like winners to me!
November 12, 2013 at 1:06 pm
kpbock
Henny is so adorable! I can’t wait to read it! Thanks for the advice and thanks also for making me feel a little bit better about all of the procrastinating I’ve been doing!
November 12, 2013 at 1:11 pm
Wendy Wahman
Love both *my* girls, Beth and Henny, and Tara, love seeing them showcased so beautifully.
*They’re in my crit group, so I can claim some relation 🙂
November 19, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Henny’s blowing you oodles of kisses, WW! xxoo
November 12, 2013 at 1:11 pm
supermario6
Love this idea. How clever and simple!
November 12, 2013 at 1:14 pm
Betsy Newman
I love your swimming pig! Good luck with your books.
November 12, 2013 at 1:14 pm
Joanne Miller
Love you work! Beauty in simplicity and heart with each doodle.
November 12, 2013 at 1:29 pm
Lisa Healy
I just found Channel D!
November 12, 2013 at 1:48 pm
Dawnyelle
These posts get me moving each day! Yeah procasdoodling! I need a new own and notebook for that right?
November 12, 2013 at 1:55 pm
Noel Csermak
I love continuity of FUN! I will be filling my doodle jar with new pencils, crayons and markers.
November 12, 2013 at 1:58 pm
Tracy Molitors
Elizabeth, I can’t thank you enough for a professional excuse to doodle! I will get right on that in just a little while 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 1:58 pm
Janie Reinart
Elizabeth, what fun! I keep a sketch book journal (for writing)j and do a lot of cut and paste to make the pages pretty. I will try doodling! Thank you for the suggestions!
November 12, 2013 at 2:03 pm
kevanjatt
This is awesome, Beth! And yay, for Henny!!
November 19, 2013 at 7:39 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
So glad you like it, Bunnyman. Henny and I say, THANKS!! xxoo
November 12, 2013 at 2:04 pm
renajtraxel
Doodling is a ton of fun even for a non-illustrator like me.
November 12, 2013 at 2:15 pm
Laurie L. Young
I’ve certainly mastered the procrastinating part . . . and I love to doodle. Mostly, I just want to thank you for validating these activities as a means to creativity, and relieving my guilt. I knew procrastination would be good for something, someday . . . 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 2:21 pm
yetteejo
I think I’ll give it a try.
November 12, 2013 at 2:23 pm
Pia Garneau
I love the concept of procrastidoodling! I am not an illustrator but I can sure doodle. Thank you for sharing your process.
November 12, 2013 at 2:28 pm
heather sisson
cute doodles!
November 12, 2013 at 2:30 pm
Mary Flynn
I love doodling even belong to online doodling group, Thanks
November 12, 2013 at 2:38 pm
Stacy Couch
Thanks, Elizabeth! So happy procrastination finally gets its due! I do something similar to doodling, but babble into a recorder instead. (Procrasti…babbling?)
November 12, 2013 at 2:50 pm
Michelle Proper
Chicken+Arms=Whole World of Possibilities. Can’t wait to read it!
November 12, 2013 at 2:51 pm
viviankirkfield
I used to doodle ALL the time when I was younger…in class, my notebooks were filled with squiggles and wiggles. At some point, that all stopped. I thank you so much, Elizabeth…you have given me the ‘permission’ I needed to resume this important activity.
I watched the TED talk…YES!
And congratulations on your new book and book-to-come! I love Henny…if a chicken can have arms…can I have wings? 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 2:51 pm
Carol Nelson
Loved the TED talk. I’m looking forward to procrastinating with a purpose! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 2:52 pm
Sherry Walz
Thank you, Elizabeth. I’m already great at procrastination! Now all I have to do is partner it with doodling. Procrastidoodling just might work for me.
November 12, 2013 at 2:53 pm
schriscoe
What a great idea! Thanks, Elizabeth!
November 12, 2013 at 3:03 pm
katemeixner
Love the idea. I always knew there was power in doodling.
November 12, 2013 at 3:07 pm
Erin Kerr
Oh man, I’m such a pro at this. Half the time when I need to think of something…I end up doodling instead. I’ve had a few characters pop up on me like this and I love it when the appear that way and have to work out the story that follows them. Loved the TED talk very much and congrats on your very cute debut book, Elizabeth! ❤
November 12, 2013 at 3:23 pm
Suzy Leopold
Ah yes, procrastinating and doodling = productivity. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
November 12, 2013 at 3:26 pm
Jill Siegel
Delightful post!! Looking forward to reading your debut picture book! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 3:30 pm
Stella Jane Stauffer
Thank you, Elizabeth, on sharing this great, I-Didn’t-know-That!, post.
Absolute great words on how to be better at what we love doing…and that is picture book writing and illustrating.
I can hardly wait to see your book.
You now have a new fan.
November 12, 2013 at 3:31 pm
Dawn
Off to procrastidoodle!
November 12, 2013 at 3:40 pm
beckylevine
Needed this today! Thanks. 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 3:53 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
I love the word Procrastidoodles! I’m very unartistic, but I’ve been having fun with some basic Zentangling lately:>)
November 12, 2013 at 3:56 pm
Daniela Weil (@Daniela_Weil)
I love it! Thank you for the new word, thank you for the new meaning, thank you for the guilt free time-wasted-wasted-not wink!
November 12, 2013 at 4:00 pm
Laurie Young
Thank you so much for for your inspirational blog…. 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 4:07 pm
Jennifer Ali
When I’m writing I actually resist the doodle urge because I know it’s an avoidance behavior for me. However, I do not think doodling is evil!
November 12, 2013 at 4:09 pm
Kirsten Carlson (@kirstencarlson)
Procrastidoodle is a fantabulous portmanteau! I’m totally inspired. : )
November 12, 2013 at 4:12 pm
Cecilia Clark
watching that TED talk was akin to a punch in my solar plexus. I have been sobbing for five minutes as though her words have released me from some deep seated constraint on my creativity, a burden of shame I didn’t consciously acknowledge. I have a lifetime worth of folders from every course I ever studied and the margins are chock full of doodles. So many times I have said to people if I let my hands draw I remember all this but if you still my hands I will forget. Thank you Elizabeth and Tara.
November 12, 2013 at 4:14 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
A chicken with arms would be …um… How can I say this…less delicious. Also, I hope my dog, Cupcake never grows arms. She’d be a force to be reckoned with if she did. I love the frog in the polka-dotted dress. When is her story going to be told?
November 12, 2013 at 4:18 pm
Jarm Del Boccio
How fun. Love your procrasidoodles, Elizabeth! Thanks for sharing your inspirations with us.
November 12, 2013 at 4:29 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
So exciting to see you and Henny here, Elizabeth!
November 19, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Likewise, KAN!
November 12, 2013 at 4:32 pm
Darshana
wonderful post. love the Ted video! Best of luck with Henny.
November 12, 2013 at 4:36 pm
elisehyldenillustration
I meant to comment earlier, but you talked me into putting it off.
November 12, 2013 at 4:54 pm
sspratt2010
I’m no artist, but I am a great doodler. Already used this great procratsitdoodle idea while sitting in a boring meeting.
November 12, 2013 at 4:54 pm
Margaret Master
I like idea that drawing inspires even if you aren’t doodler
November 12, 2013 at 4:54 pm
Perfecting Motherhood
Thanks for the doodle idea as a spark generator! I need to take the time to doodle every day for sure.
November 12, 2013 at 5:24 pm
Yvonne Mes
Yea for doodling! Though I agree with Susan in the video, we should come up with a better name 🙂 Thanks Elizabeth for legitimizing many years of doodling during meetings, and now as an important part of my work as a writer/ illustrator.
November 12, 2013 at 5:27 pm
Lucy
Love it! I need to bust out my Prismacolors
November 12, 2013 at 5:36 pm
Joanna
Yay, Beth, thank you!
November 19, 2013 at 7:42 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
You are quite welcome, Joanna! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 5:45 pm
Rick Starkey
I love to doodle, and Henny looks like a cool character and book.
November 12, 2013 at 5:46 pm
Kari Allen (@Kari_D_Allen)
I wish my doodles looked like something! That would help! So jealous of those who can draw and write!
November 12, 2013 at 5:53 pm
Alicia van Thiel
Loved reading this post! Doodle, a great word to teach every child! Thanks Beth!
November 12, 2013 at 5:56 pm
Vera Lisa Smetzer
I just love your Procrastidoodles when you post them on FB! Great TED talk too – TY for recommending it! 🙂
November 19, 2013 at 7:43 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Glad you like them, Vera! YW 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 6:09 pm
Leslee Anne Hewson
Thanks, Elizabeth. I am a born procrastinator (I drive my husband nuts sometimes – patience not being one of his traits) and I’ve always seen this as one of my flaws. But not so it appears! Thanks for affirming there is a positive side to procrastination. I’m off now to procrastidoodle! Love it.
November 12, 2013 at 6:19 pm
Stacy S. Jensen
Love Procratidoodles! Must try this! Oh, wait, I sorta do that already.
November 12, 2013 at 6:26 pm
dee win
i loved this post! i just ordered henny and will sit down with a notepad and a pencil to do some procrastidoodling soon
November 12, 2013 at 6:31 pm
laurahawking
Thank you for the inspiration, Elizabeth! I loved your procrastidoodles! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 6:38 pm
Barbara Messinger
Thanks! Something new to try!
November 12, 2013 at 6:50 pm
deborah freedman
Can’t wait to get my hands on Henny!
November 19, 2013 at 7:45 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Henny’s hands are clapping at the thought of your hands on her 😉 Thank you, Deborah!
November 12, 2013 at 7:16 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Procrastidoodles. What a great idea!!
November 12, 2013 at 7:29 pm
Melissa
Elizabeth comes by procrastination and doodling honestly. Her older sister is such a procrastinator that she will sometimes carry a package to be mailed, in her car, for weeks before mailing it. Also, her father was a supreme doodler. Although his were mainly stars, planets and stick men. I love Henny and all your silly doodles (silloodles). Keep them coming!!!
November 19, 2013 at 7:46 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Roger that, MRB. xo
November 12, 2013 at 7:29 pm
Evie Hjartarson
What a great post. Love your doodling idea. Off to sharpen my pencil.
November 12, 2013 at 7:31 pm
Gaye Kick
I don’t usually doodle, but I will put it to the test and see what happens. Thanks
November 12, 2013 at 7:33 pm
Melanie Vickers
Doodling will be in my list of creative activities each day. Thanks, I loved the video.
November 12, 2013 at 8:01 pm
MSackman
Love having an excuse to procrastinate! I have never been much of a doodler, but sounds like something I should try. What a fun way to get inspired.
November 12, 2013 at 8:04 pm
Andrea
Now I feel like doodling! Thanks for the interesting post!
November 12, 2013 at 8:13 pm
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
I love the doodling video! Thank you!
November 12, 2013 at 8:26 pm
emazza1217
Looking forward to reading Henny. Best Regards. Wish I could draw but I think of lots of cute ideas when I’m procrastinating too.
November 12, 2013 at 8:46 pm
Shannon Anderson
You are very talented!
November 12, 2013 at 8:49 pm
Cindy Schumerth
I will no longer feel like I’m wasting time when I doodle.
Thanks for that.
November 12, 2013 at 8:57 pm
laurazarrin
Fantastic advice! I won’t feel so guilty next time I’m procrastidoodling 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 9:01 pm
Therese Nagi
Beth thanks for sharing the tip about doodling. It seems like some of most creative ideas come from doodling. It seems like doodles take on a a life of their own.
November 12, 2013 at 9:10 pm
Debra
I’m great a procrastinating, but not so great at doodling, but may give it a try. You never know…
November 12, 2013 at 9:13 pm
wendymyersart
I knew I had a real plan all through school and college! Truly, I don’t think I’d have made it through it all without constantly doodling. Thank you for encouraging such behavior! I love your characters and your art. So much personality. Thank you for the post.
November 12, 2013 at 9:45 pm
amievc
Thank you for sharing your thought process and your fabulous illustrations!
November 12, 2013 at 10:14 pm
Cathy C. Hall
Love this idea–of course, all my doodles would like sticks…:-)
November 12, 2013 at 10:38 pm
Kristin Gray
Elizabeth, I adore funny chicken books, and yours was already on my radar…but how exciting to hear you have a pig book forthcoming as well. Congrats on all your success.
November 12, 2013 at 11:28 pm
Patricia Holloway
Thank you for such a cute word. I’m very good at procrastinating, now I can add doodling. Sounds fun.
November 12, 2013 at 11:36 pm
klmcmorranmaus
I will definitely try doodling. I am already good at procrastinating. Thank you for sharing.
November 13, 2013 at 12:14 am
Laurie Ann Thompson
Great post, Beth! I’m not sure I’d know what my doodles were intended to be when I looked back on them, but I’m VERY good at procrastinating. 😉
November 19, 2013 at 7:48 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Laurie! I’ll bet your doodles are fascinating 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 12:30 am
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
Thanks, Beth! A great post. I love to doodle and I love the word “procrastidoodle”! I love that TED talk.
November 13, 2013 at 12:53 am
Marilyn Hilton
I like the idea of doodling for fun with a purpose. And I adore Eizabeth’s little critters.
November 13, 2013 at 1:06 am
Vicky (@doodlesoop)
Haha, those are terrific! I love Henny–careful, don’t give those genetic engineers any ideas…
November 13, 2013 at 1:38 am
mbeaversillustration
I absolutely love the idea of procrastidoodling! I love doodles, but have somehow managed to put pressure on myself about doing even that, so I usually end up procrastinating doodling. I must try putting all together like this, perhaps that’s just the thing! 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 2:37 am
Lacey Gunter
Brilliant idea. I will have to try it.
November 13, 2013 at 4:58 am
Quinn Cole
I predict Henny will be a hit with children and adults. So cute.
I am going to incorporate doodling into this year’s PiBoIdMo. Thanks!
November 13, 2013 at 5:38 am
garyfabbri
Hej! Procrastidoodling – perfect. Thanks 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 5:38 am
Marcy P.
Ok, this was FANTASTIC!!!!! I loved everything about it. The video was so great! I was a doodler in school as a kid… once I began doodling, I could FOCUS. Of course teachers didn’t agree… but when I went into the counseling field and learned that children with ADHD who doodle are able to reign in thought and focus easier… I was floored! I don’t have ADHD but I experienced that all the same. That being said… I LOVED the video as well. I have to pick up my daughter in a bit from Kindergarten and we will be DOODLING our afternoon away! Thank you!!!
November 19, 2013 at 7:51 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Yes– I think we all benefit from a little focus. Whatever it takes, right? I hope you and your daughter had a wonderful doodleafternoon 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 6:06 am
Juliet Clare Bell
Yay! What a lovely post. And I’ve just listened to the Ted Talk whilst doodling away. I feel a PiBoIdMo idea coming on. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 7:15 am
Lori Nichols
Procrastidoodle!!! I love it. And I love Henny. So exciting. Great article. Thanks.
November 19, 2013 at 7:52 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Lori– and Henny loves Maple! 🙂 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 7:23 am
helen dening
procrastidoodling- how fun and encouraging! thank you.Guess what I’m off to do!
November 13, 2013 at 7:33 am
RaChelle Lisiecki
What do you call a lab/poodle mix who puts things off? A procrastidoodling labradoodle. Love the term, Elizabeth, and your beautiful art. Thank you.
November 13, 2013 at 9:05 am
Gail Kamer
I love the spider!!!! It’s sooo cute but I’m also working on a spider story.
November 13, 2013 at 9:19 am
Kelli Thrasher-Brooks
Love this Elizabeth, can’t wait to see the book when it’s released! So happy for you 🙂
November 19, 2013 at 7:53 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Kelli! Bwaaak!
November 13, 2013 at 10:47 am
kathefain
I have always been a doodler! Thanks for the validation 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 10:58 am
Jessica
I wish I knew of this in school. Then, I could say “I’m not goofing around, I’m just working on something else and creating something amazing.”
November 13, 2013 at 11:01 am
Nancy Armo
A fun post just like Henny! Well done, Beth!
November 13, 2013 at 11:35 am
Lynn Ann Carol
Hi Elizabeth,
HENRY looks adorable. I can’t wait to read it.
Thanks for the post and thanks for TED. What a fantastic site.
Lynn
November 13, 2013 at 12:24 pm
City Sights for Kids
I am not an illustrator but have been trying my hand at drawing as a form of inspiration. Your post encourages me to keep at it! Thank you! – Amanda Sincavage
November 13, 2013 at 12:54 pm
Jenifer Heidorn
Matisse exhibit + doodling = idea #12. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 4:02 pm
Gayle Madden
Nice doodling.
November 13, 2013 at 4:47 pm
writersideup
How can you NOT like a word like Procrastidoodles? 😀 Nice to know more about Henny! 😀 Thanks, Elizabeth!
November 13, 2013 at 4:53 pm
mochamusing
I literally laughed out loud. What a cute character born out of a great question. I love it!
November 13, 2013 at 9:41 pm
Betsy Devany
Thank you so much, Elizabeth! Can’t wait to meet HENRY! Wonderful post!
November 19, 2013 at 7:54 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Henny wants to know who Henry is. 😉 🙂
November 19, 2013 at 8:33 pm
Betsy Devany
I realized (too late) that I had typed “Henry” rather than “Henny.” But . . . Henry might be a character who longs to meet Henny. One never knows.
Can’t wait to own HENNY for my collection.
Congratulations again.
November 13, 2013 at 9:59 pm
SevenAcreSky
Timely post for me, Elizabeth. On a writing retreat this last week, I put down the laptop, took up a pencil and tablet, and a character was born – Peck. With three small adventures to his name, to date. Thanks for confirming my experience by naming the process. I will procrastidoodle much more often now..
November 13, 2013 at 10:00 pm
SevenAcreSky
(name) – Damon Dean
November 13, 2013 at 10:32 pm
Karen Mae Zoccoli
Procrastidoodles is such a visual and delicious sounding word all in one! I enjoyed all the whimsical illustrations you shared as well! Thanks Elizabeth and congrats on “Henry”!
November 19, 2013 at 7:55 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Karen! PS Who’s Henry? 😉
November 13, 2013 at 10:34 pm
lindakcampos
Great post! Very inspiring. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 11:38 pm
Susie Sawyer
I LOVE Henny!!! What a perfect little fowl. 🙂 And what a great post. Thank you!
November 14, 2013 at 1:47 am
Suzanne kaufman
Beth great tip now time to procrastinate.
November 19, 2013 at 7:56 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Get back to work, Kaufman! 😉
November 14, 2013 at 2:34 am
angiekarcher
I LOVE your art Elizabeth! I am an author and a new illustrator. I will procrastidoodle tomorrow…Ha! Just kidding! Off to doodle a PiBoIdMo now!
November 14, 2013 at 9:13 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Procrastidoodles sounds fun! Thanks for sharing your ideas Elizabeth!
November 14, 2013 at 9:36 am
thiskidreviewsbooks
Great post! 😀
November 14, 2013 at 1:55 pm
Jennifer Voigt Kaplan
I feel well equipped to battle boredom the next time I’m on the train, in a long meeting, waiting in line….
Henny is adorable!
November 14, 2013 at 2:36 pm
Alicia Schwab
Great post, Elizabeth. I didn’t get to read it until today because I was doodling!
November 14, 2013 at 3:56 pm
laura516
You have just given me permission to procrastinate? Thank you!
November 14, 2013 at 8:39 pm
thewritingblues
Reblogged this on the writing blues and commented:
With too many balls in the air, one had to drop and I’m sorry to say that for the past few months, it’s been my writing ball. (Including writing here – I’m sorry for that.)
I’ve worried I won’t be able to get my writing back since it sometimes is so hard for me to get the images in my head into words in the first place and after this long a break, with only a few scribbles here and there…
So this was a timely reminder for me from Elizabeth Rose Stanton, a fun author/illustrator, on using doodling to break through blocks and come up with ideas. Seems like it’s another way to character map – start doodling and see what comes out about your character. Like how Elizabeth’s chicken ended up with arms…
Enjoy!
November 19, 2013 at 7:57 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Hope it works for you! Thanks for the re-blog 🙂
November 15, 2013 at 11:54 am
Janet Halfmann
I definitely have to try doodling! Thanks for sharing.
November 15, 2013 at 12:22 pm
Robb Michael G
I have fought the idea of writing on paper for quite awhile now (ever since I got my first computer an Apple Macintosh), but It’s becoming obvious that I need to pull out those old yellow pads so I can scribble some pictures when the words fail me. Thanks for this inspiring post.
November 15, 2013 at 12:49 pm
Donna L Martin
Hi Elizabeth!
I can’t wait to see what cute Henny is going to do. Maybe she will visit me at my Children’s Festival of Reading booth next May…;~)
Congrats on your new book and thanks for the great tips on doodling!
Donna L Martin
November 19, 2013 at 7:58 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Donna! Hopefully, Henny will make the rounds 🙂
November 15, 2013 at 1:46 pm
S.H. Sherlock
Oh how I wish I could procrastidoodle with the skill of your artistic examples! Looking forward to reading Henny.
November 15, 2013 at 11:02 pm
vinvogel
Great video! Thanks, Elizabeth!
November 15, 2013 at 11:23 pm
RadSheri
I have been procrastinating and not procrastidoodling until today. Thanks for the good ideas Elizabeth.
November 16, 2013 at 4:50 pm
The Ink Pond
Thank you for the wise words and the doodle TED talk. Awesome!
I’m off to procrastidoodle!
~Tia
November 16, 2013 at 5:07 pm
Cindy Johnson
Who knew that doodling could be so productive! -You’ve won me over!
November 16, 2013 at 7:52 pm
kitumscheidKit Umscheid
Love the idea of doodling without any expectations in mind to free you up and let inspiration flow. Must try procrastidoodling!
November 17, 2013 at 12:21 pm
KidLitReviews
Love the video on doodling. Think it is a great idea and am going to give it a try. Thanks.
November 17, 2013 at 1:02 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
This is a great idea. Sometimes time-wasters aren’t wasting time at all! Who knew?
November 17, 2013 at 3:31 pm
bucherwurm65
I procrastidoodle! But I didn’t know that’s what it was called – or that it was “okay” to do it. I felt like I was wasting time when I should have been writing. (I am not an illustrator.) Thank you so much for giving me a new perspective on an old habit. 😀
November 17, 2013 at 6:28 pm
Claire Annette Noland
This is brilliant. I’m going to encourage my students to doodle.
I think I’ll go procrastidoodle right now.
November 19, 2013 at 6:16 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Thanks, Claire. Glad to hear you’re going to get them doodling!
November 17, 2013 at 8:30 pm
Amy Cohas
I tried your suggestion a couple of days after your post, and got a whole new story idea (and a title too). Thank you!
November 17, 2013 at 11:15 pm
vijikc
Thank very for this idea — I love it!
November 19, 2013 at 2:14 am
Dani Duck
Any advice that tells me to both procrastinate and doodle gives me warm fuzzies. I need to do both more often. Lately it’s been work work work and ideas aren’t coming as quickly.
November 19, 2013 at 12:24 pm
Shannon Abercrombie
Ignition is a great word to describe that moment when a story takes off in your imagination. I’ve never been a doodle but I’m going to give it a try!
November 19, 2013 at 2:34 pm
writeforapples
I love this post. And procrastidoodles is a GREAT word. 🙂
November 20, 2013 at 9:10 pm
Priya Gopal
Great post, love the idea
November 20, 2013 at 10:10 pm
Lauri Meyers
Doodlydoos just wake up a different part of your brain where little creative amoebas live and your editing mind can’t enter. Hooray for doodling!
November 22, 2013 at 9:21 am
littledbl
I love to do what I’m not supposed to be doing! Thanks for giving me permission. 🙂
November 22, 2013 at 6:16 pm
aliciaminor
Procrastidoodles sounds interesting. I will have my daughter doodle with me and let you know what happens. This is exciting. thanks for sharing.
November 23, 2013 at 12:51 pm
redheadedstepchild64
Thanks for this post and the TED talk. As a creative once stuck in Corporate America, I had to doodle during boring meetings just so I could stay awake! The doodling helped me listen and focus. And the TED talk is validation for me to my previous boss (a creative director, or really, in her case, a stop-being-creative director!). In my reviews, she always said it looked like I wasn’t paying attention during meetings since I was doodling. Funny, because she would always ask me for my notes later because they were always better than hers!
November 23, 2013 at 6:58 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
The proof is in the pudding, as they say 😉 🙂 PS SO glad you’re not stuck in Corporate America anymore!
November 23, 2013 at 2:05 pm
The World Is My Cuttlefish
That spark of recognition, of ignition, is such a relief sometimes. I’m interested to try doodling as a way in.
November 24, 2013 at 3:26 pm
colleenrkosinski
Love the term procrastidoodling!
November 24, 2013 at 6:04 pm
Debbie Faith Mickelson
Thanks for sharing your process and a new term, “procrastidoodling.”
November 26, 2013 at 3:08 pm
Meg Miller
Marvelous advice… I was all locked up and idealess for a while, then I got crazy busy (company, cleaning, cooking) and there came the ideas. But next time I’m going to procrastidoodle. 😀
November 26, 2013 at 7:48 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
Good plan, Meg. Henny approves 🙂
November 26, 2013 at 8:53 pm
Vera Lisa Smetzer
I love your “procrastidoodling” and your sharing them on FB! 🙂 I’ve always doodled on every surface available. My journals are full of them as well. Happy holidays! I am so looking forward to reading Henny! 🙂
November 26, 2013 at 10:08 pm
Sarah Romano Diehl
I love Elizabeth Rose Stanton! Can’t wait to get my hands on Henny :)!!!!
November 26, 2013 at 11:04 pm
Willie Fisher
I love chickens!!! Your little Henny is adorable! Can’t wait to read it!!!!
l
November 29, 2013 at 4:14 pm
Tracey Jackson
I’ve always been a bit scared to doodle as I’m not artistic at all – but now I’m going to try. Thanks for a great post. I LOVE your opening pic – the rabbit about to be rocketed into oblivion!
November 30, 2013 at 10:32 am
Kelly Vavala
Wonderful idea…Procratadoodle! fun word as well! A character that I have been drawing since I was eight years old came from a doodle! thank you for sharing your thoughts!!
November 30, 2013 at 11:17 am
Jacqueline
I would never have thought to try this, since I’m not an illustrator, but it’s going to be fun. Thanks!
November 30, 2013 at 12:11 pm
carolmunrojww
I was one of those kids in grammar school who, at the end of art class, turned in a empty paper. But I kept trying. By high school, I took every art class I could fit into my schedule. Still had trouble finishing projects, but at least I could get them started. (My art teacher winced when she saw me coming. Really!) But persistence works. I’m not a great artist (my doodles and drawings are fairly revolting), but I do have some artistic skills, and love how creating art plays into my ideas for writing.
November 30, 2013 at 6:02 pm
Kate Wilson
Please, please write a book about that rabbit. Thank you. (I can be patient. Sort of.)
November 30, 2013 at 9:21 pm
Mishka Jaeger
Procratadoodling. I used to be much better at that. hehe thanks for reminding me!
November 30, 2013 at 9:23 pm
Matthew C. Winner
I love you procrastidoodling and all that I get to see on FB. Thanks for sharing, Elizabeth, and for reminding us all that doodling is such a good thing!
November 30, 2013 at 10:35 pm
Kristine Gunnell
Tammy, I had to run back the last day of PiBoldMo to tell you I am procrastidoodling and I have 30 ideas. Yeah!
December 1, 2013 at 2:05 am
Sue Schnitzer
Can’t wait to see the book!
December 1, 2013 at 1:11 pm
blanchebaxter
I love doodling, and seeing what your Procrastidoodles evolved into. Thanks for sharing!
December 2, 2013 at 11:42 pm
Laurie J. Edwards
Love the word procrastidoodles.
December 6, 2013 at 4:54 am
John Simlett
Elizabeth for Doodle President of Doodlevania!!
December 10, 2013 at 12:19 pm
Amanda Dilworth
You are so talented Elizabeth, the Queen of Procrastidoodles!!! I absolutely LOVE the spark illustration at the top of this post.
December 21, 2013 at 4:28 pm
Final PiBoIdMo 2013 Prize Winners! | Writing for Kids (While Raising Them)
[…] Elizabeth Rose Stanton’s Prize […]
April 11, 2014 at 5:02 am
Henny | Children's Books Heal
[…] legs…a frog with arms…a bear with a beak and so on. Doodling can be fun. Check out Tara Lazar’s interview with Stanton last November. Stanton gives some insight into her artistic process. You […]
October 22, 2014 at 11:44 pm
Prepping for PiBoIdMo! | Noble Illustrations Process and Musings
[…] year I learned about “Procrastidoodles” from Elizabeth Rose […]