by Mary Uhles
I’m incredibly honored to be included in the run-up to PiBoIdMo 2015. You know how it feels to be in an airplane right before take off? The airplane swings out onto the runway. You look out the window and see the fat white lines of the end zone rotate under the plane. The wings bounce slightly in the turn. The flight attendants tuck the air pressure bags into their armpits and walk away down the aisle. And then, just a for a second, right before the pilot hits the throttle, the entire plane gets very, very still. . . poised to leap into the future. That’s Pre-PiBoIdMo Day 1. For the next 35 days you will be leaping into the future. And, while it may seem suddenly still back in the cabin of the airplane, in the cockpit the pilot is actually going down a very specific checklist for the flight ahead. Let’s look at your checklist for PiBoIdMo:
- Commitment? (You’ll need it on Day 1)
- Imagination? (You’ll need it on Day 15 when you think “geez am I only half way there?”)
- Self Forgiveness? (you’ll need it for day 27 when you think “I’ll never have another good idea ever!”)
- Finger on the pulse of your inner child? (You’ll need it every day, that’s what turns great ideas into books)
When I start making art or writing a story I have an external and internal checklist. The external list is the one that helps me procrastinate:
- Do I have all my other work done? (No? Oh well, I have to finish THAT first)
- Do I have good music or a radio program to listen to? (No? Oh well, I can’t possibly work without proper inspiration)
- Do I have time to work right now? (No? Oh well, I shouldn’t even start if I’m going to be interrupted!)
You get the idea. If I let that checklist run things most of my art would never get off the ground. I worked on THE LITTLE KIDS’ TABLE and KOOKY CRUMBS almost simultaneously for a year. Illustrating two books with a huge cast of characters while balancing my other illustrations, writing projects, and life in general was a turbulent journey (I wrote a post about my time management here.) But even with the best time management, I learned that my illustrations would be ho-hum and my effort wasted if I couldn’t get to the beginning of my own runway. Where everything was very, very still. Where it’s just me and the artwork. Me and my characters. Me and the brush and the paper and the color. In that place the funniest, saddest, angriest, happiest, most memorable ideas and images came out onto my drawing table. While working on both books I developed my internal checklist. It’s a little different. It has only one question:
- Can I reach beyond the distractions of now, beyond my brain saying “that’s a stupid idea”, beyond worrying if I’m good enough, beyond worrying if anyone else will like it, all the way to the place where I’m telling the story that only I can tell?
PiBoIdMo-ers, your mission on this flight is to complete that checklist. At your final destination you’ll be greeted by a gaggle of brand new characters.They are your BEST ideas and they are waiting for you. Ready for take-off? Then let’s push that throttle forward.
Mary Reaves Uhles has illustrated THE LITTLE KID’S TABLE by Mary Ann McCabe Riehle (Sleeping Bear 2015); KOOKY CRUMBS by J. Patrick Lewis (Kane Miller 2016); and the adventure series, BEYOND THE GRAVE, by Dottie Enderle (ABDO Magic Wagon Press 2013). Mary has twice been awarded the Grand Prize for Illustration from the SCBWI Midsouth Conference and her piece, EAT was a finalist in the 2014 SCBWI Bologna Book Fair Gallery. Prior to beginning her career as a freelance illustrator, Mary worked as an animator on projects for Warner Brothers and Fisher-Price Interactive. She serves as the Illustrator Coordinator for the Midsouth region of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and lives with her family in Nashville, Tennessee. Since creating characters and stories is her favorite thing in the world (even more than mocha fudge ice cream) she feels mighty lucky to do it every day in her hilltop studio. Find her online at www.maryuhles.com and Twitter @maryuhles and Facebook.com/maryuhles.
Mary Uhles is giving away an illustrator portfolio critique AND a copy of her newest picture book, THE LITTLE KIDS’ TABLE. These are two prizes for two winners!
Leave a comment for a chance to win. One comment per person, please. (In your comment, please note “CRITIQUE” if you would like to be considered for the illustrator prize.)
These prizes will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You will be eligible for these prizes if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge.
Good luck, everyone!
411 comments
Comments feed for this article
October 25, 2015 at 6:30 pm
Tammi Truax
Thanks for the encouragement.
October 26, 2015 at 1:07 pm
Jamie LB Deenihan
Thank you for the insight and inspiration as we kick off PiBoldMo!
October 25, 2015 at 6:31 pm
Rani Iyer
Mary, excellent checklist. May I add one more: Accept you could be insane. Or else you might not be writing for children. Excellent suggestions in your time management article as well. I love the list, I live and breathe lists. And deadlines keep me going. Thanks for the cheer about FB. Love it! Thanks for your generous shares!
October 25, 2015 at 6:31 pm
Shelly Hawley-Yan
That little voice of distraction in my head is the worst! There is ALWAYS some reason not to get started. Thanks for the reminder that I’m not the only one! “Critique” Shelly Hawley-Yan
October 25, 2015 at 6:33 pm
beckylevine
Great checklists–the internal one, especially. Thanks for the post.
October 25, 2015 at 6:33 pm
Red said what?
Thank you for the checklist and inspiration! – Jennifer Reinharz
October 25, 2015 at 6:34 pm
lgalaske
Thank you for the warm-up post! I’m looking forward to another PiBoIdMo, not only for the ideas I’ll generate, but for all the inspirational blogs I’ll read.
October 25, 2015 at 6:35 pm
Jean Harvey
Loved the imagery. It really helps me get beyond that nagging critic in my head.
October 25, 2015 at 6:35 pm
viviankirkfield
I love your checklist, Mary…even more, I love your checklist that we should ignore!!! Because I have one of those that wants me to pay attention to it all the time. But for the next 35 days, I am going to IGNORE that demanding checklist and pay attention to the one that matters most…my writer’s checklist! Thank you so much…this was the perfect kick-off for PiBoIdMo 2015. 🙂
October 25, 2015 at 6:39 pm
Tracey M. Cox
CRITIQUE
Thanks, Mary & Tara. I have my laugage secured (paper & pens at the ready), my seat belt buckled (for those turbulent, yet inspirational winds), table is in an upright position (for drawing and writing), and my electronics off (because um, internet distractions). Ready to go, Captain!
October 28, 2015 at 10:51 am
Mary Uhles
inspiration winds! Love it!
October 25, 2015 at 6:41 pm
slowpony
Critique.
Thank you for your blog post. It was very helpful!
October 25, 2015 at 6:41 pm
Monique
Thank you Mary! Great post to kick start PiBoidMo. You have some great points that will help me stay on track.
October 25, 2015 at 6:42 pm
Jennette Mutolo
Questions! Will we ever stop questioning ourselves? Naaaa, because that’s what makes us creative creatures 😊
October 25, 2015 at 6:43 pm
Laura Bellina
Thanks for your inspiration on how to stay focused.
October 25, 2015 at 6:43 pm
Kathy Johnson
Great advice! Thank you.
October 25, 2015 at 6:44 pm
Nancy Churnin
Mary, thanks so much for the creative boost! It makes such a difference knowing we are all on this creative journey together.
October 25, 2015 at 6:44 pm
Monique
Thank you Mary! What a great post to kick off the next 35 days. Now I’m ready to write!
October 25, 2015 at 6:46 pm
Sue Poduska
Wow. No wonder you have such a grasp of the moment. I’m not an illustrator, but I understand multiple projects. Going to be an interesting month.
October 25, 2015 at 6:50 pm
Chris Regier (@cmregier)
Your internal list should be tattooed on the inside of my eyelids so I see it whenever I close my eyes and start listening to the “Am I good enough” questions. Thank you.
October 25, 2015 at 6:50 pm
K. Marcus
I like an internal checklist with one question. It is much easier to remember and be consistent with the asking. Thanks for a great pre-post!
October 25, 2015 at 6:51 pm
Kathy Doherty
Yes, Mary, I’m committed and ready to start!
October 25, 2015 at 6:53 pm
Cassandra Federman
This was a wonderful start, thanks Mary! “CRITIQUE”
October 25, 2015 at 6:53 pm
Carleen Shreeve
Thanks for the great advise.
October 25, 2015 at 6:54 pm
Ali Earle Pichardo
Happy to see Pre PiBoIdMo start! Thanks for the encouragement!
October 25, 2015 at 6:55 pm
Kim Pfennigwerth
Woohoo Thanks Mary for the wonderful advice and the inspiration to start us into PiBoIdMo!
October 25, 2015 at 6:56 pm
Freda Lewkowicz
Thanks for the motivation. I think I can, I think I can !!!
October 25, 2015 at 6:57 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thanks for the check list, A great way to start the challenge.
CRITIQUE
October 25, 2015 at 6:57 pm
Trine
My seat belt is fastened, Mary. Ready!
October 25, 2015 at 6:57 pm
Sallie Wolf
Love the internal checklist. Thanks for the post and the chance to win a critique. Sallie
October 25, 2015 at 6:58 pm
chrisynthia
The Little Kids Table….great name for a book!
October 25, 2015 at 6:58 pm
kathalsey
Love the idea of a little kids’ table. We’ve all been there, right? No judging, let’s take flight for PiBoIdMo. Lift off.
October 25, 2015 at 7:02 pm
Mel Ford
Thanks for the great post, can’t wait to get started. CRITIQUE
October 25, 2015 at 7:04 pm
Teresa Robeson
Wise words, Mary! A great way to start pre-PiBo!
October 25, 2015 at 7:05 pm
Doris Fisher
I’m ready for lift off!
October 25, 2015 at 7:05 pm
supermario6
Ready to get started!
October 25, 2015 at 7:06 pm
seekerjules
Time to take-off to beyond the distractions! It is exciting! CRITIQUE Thank you.
October 25, 2015 at 7:06 pm
Bethany Roberts
A great post to get us all ready for take-off!
October 25, 2015 at 7:09 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
I love your one-question checklist. It’s what I’ve been focusing on recently!
SO ready for PiBoIdMo!
October 25, 2015 at 7:15 pm
pearlz
Reblogged this on Pearlz Dreaming and commented:
Here is today’s first pre PiBoIdMo from Tara’s blog.
October 25, 2015 at 7:15 pm
Nikki Bergstresser
Love the checklist! Thanks!
October 25, 2015 at 7:21 pm
R A Griffin
Thank you, Mary! I’m going to put the inner checklist in my PiBoldMo journal. I’m ready to take off!
October 25, 2015 at 7:23 pm
ajschildrensbooks
Mary, great check list! Thanks for sharing. I’m pumped up!
October 25, 2015 at 7:25 pm
Jill Richards Proctor
Thank you, Mary. I’m almost ready for take-off. It’s time to focus.
October 25, 2015 at 7:26 pm
Susan Cabael
Show me the way to “the place where I’m telling the story that only I can tell.” I’m planning to live there these next several weeks.
October 28, 2015 at 10:54 am
Mary Uhles
i think we find that place, stumbling along together as writers and artists. Truly I have to give credit to Courtney Stevens (FAKING NORMAL) who gave me that line, she is a good friend and a great source of inspiration.
October 25, 2015 at 7:26 pm
kirsticall
Thanks for a great post, Mary. This is a great way to start PiBoIdMo!
October 25, 2015 at 7:28 pm
pathaap
Great post to get things started!
October 25, 2015 at 7:30 pm
kdveiten
Great starter post! Thanks for the encouragement and the chance to win your book!
October 25, 2015 at 7:30 pm
Sharlin Craig
Wonderful, wise advice Mary. I will be searching for that stillness so the magic and honesty can happen. Thank you!
October 25, 2015 at 7:31 pm
Abi Cushman
This really resonated with me, especially the “Do I have time to work right now? (No? Oh well, I shouldn’t even start if I’m going to be interrupted!)” line. “CRITIQUE”
October 25, 2015 at 7:32 pm
Dorothy Massey
Some great advice here Mary and I’d love to have the chance to win a copy of The Little Kid’s Table.
October 25, 2015 at 7:32 pm
Debbie Smart
Thank you for the inspirational post! Debbie Smart
October 25, 2015 at 7:32 pm
Heather Greene
What a great send off for us! Thank you!!
CRITIQUE
October 25, 2015 at 7:36 pm
sunroksus
I really like your analogy about the quiet space right before take off. I will remember to set aside my excuses and enter that space before I write. Thank you.
October 25, 2015 at 7:38 pm
Ashley Bohmer
I’m ready for take off!–I’m copying and pasting the internal checklist and putting where I can see it, read it, and believe in it all month long.😃
October 25, 2015 at 7:40 pm
Bethanny Parker
Four ideas from one post, and we haven’t even gotten started yet. Do those count?
October 25, 2015 at 7:45 pm
Nina Johnson
You hit the nail on the head with this. Although I don’t need any help procrastinating (got that down), the rest is help me create my own checklist. Thank you.
October 25, 2015 at 7:49 pm
Lynne Marie
Thanks for putting us right on track at the inspiration station, Mary! Much appreciated!
October 25, 2015 at 7:49 pm
gabisnyder
Thanks, Mary, for the inspiration and the checklist! Your airplane analogy is perfect. I am ready to leap into the future!
October 25, 2015 at 7:54 pm
Michelle Mapp
Thanks for the reminder that the perfect moment, space, etc. is just a distraction to the real work.
October 25, 2015 at 7:55 pm
Christine Connolly
True words! Reach beyond distractions and be committed to our imaginations! We need to fuel them and this challenge is the fuel we need to keep going.
October 25, 2015 at 7:56 pm
ManjuBeth
Mary, your post is the perfect start to PiBoIdMo! And I love your cover art on both books.
October 25, 2015 at 7:56 pm
Caroline
Yes! That last question is so good to push away all the other distractions and just get to work. Thanks for an encouraging post to start getting ready for PiBoIdMo this year.
October 25, 2015 at 7:57 pm
Debbie Austin
What an excellent start to PiBo! Thank you, Mary. I admit to being a fearful flier so that second before the plane lurches forward, I’m usually bracing myself for what I’m sure is going to be a fiery crash. Still I can appreciate what you mean about getting quiet and still. And I love the internal checklist. I’ll be printing that out.
October 25, 2015 at 7:58 pm
lizbedia
What a great way to take off on the month-long journey! Now to keep my external checklist in check. Thank you, Mary!
October 25, 2015 at 7:59 pm
Julie
Great start to the special month!
October 25, 2015 at 8:05 pm
LJ Laniewski
I am ready for take off. Thank you, Mary!
October 25, 2015 at 8:15 pm
kentuckygal50
This is my first year as a participant. Looking forward!
October 25, 2015 at 8:29 pm
Jennifer Larson
Way to kick things off! I’ve got some checklists to keep track of. 😃
October 25, 2015 at 8:32 pm
Meghan Daniels
Great way to get us ready to go. Would love to win the book!
October 25, 2015 at 8:33 pm
Rona Shirdan
All set to start!
October 25, 2015 at 8:33 pm
Jeffrey J. Faville
Nice post. Great opening. Seriously, great opening.
October 25, 2015 at 8:35 pm
erikammon
Woohoo! Ready for take-off! I’ve got my Scrivener idea file ready to go!! Journals scattered all over (okay, that’s just normal…)!
October 25, 2015 at 8:38 pm
dbyatt
VROOOOMMMM! Ready for takeoff – thanks for a great first post Mary 🙂 Enter me for the CRITIQUE prize, please!
October 25, 2015 at 8:38 pm
julie rowan zoch
“Reach beyond the distractions of now” – Thanks, Mary
October 25, 2015 at 8:39 pm
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
Thank you, Mary! A great post to kick things off.
October 25, 2015 at 8:39 pm
Nancy Colle
Thank you Mary, for the pep talk. Critique 🙂
October 25, 2015 at 8:40 pm
womanwifemotherchild
I thought the procrastination-by-to-do-list was just me! Thanks for naming it 🙂 I checked out your time management blog, too. Good stuff!
October 25, 2015 at 8:41 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Thank you so much for your uplifting post, Mary, and yes, I am ready for take off! Good luck everyone! Happy PiBoIdMo!
October 25, 2015 at 8:42 pm
sadeeschilling
Critique
This post was a great start! Your internal checklist resonated with me especially. Thanks, Mary and Tara!
October 25, 2015 at 8:42 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Mary – your internal checklist is perfect. I’ll be trying that out starting tomorrow.
October 25, 2015 at 8:45 pm
Louann Brown
CRITIQUE. Thanks for offering this great “prize” for illustrators. I participate in PiBoIdMo every year. It gives me several roads to follow after the holidays when I dig in to see a few reach that final manuscript ready-to-submit stage.
October 25, 2015 at 8:46 pm
rupalimulge
Ha! Day 27 🙂 thank you for such great tips and supportive words for all.
October 25, 2015 at 8:48 pm
Mary Worley
Thanks for the great kick-off. I can always use a reminder to not give in to procrastination. Mopping is never as fulfilling as writing!
October 28, 2015 at 10:55 am
Mary Uhles
LOL mopping. Mine is dusting. Suddenly all the little pieces of dust come into sharp relief against my computer screen when I should be creating
October 25, 2015 at 8:49 pm
Kirsten Bock
Excellent advice. Getting started is often the hardest part.
October 25, 2015 at 8:50 pm
Pat Miller
Love the airplane takeoff analogy. You inspired me to create my own internal checklist. Bon voyage to us all!
October 25, 2015 at 8:53 pm
Cinzia
Great post!
October 25, 2015 at 8:56 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Mary for a great start. Ready for takeoff!
October 25, 2015 at 9:04 pm
Buffy Silverman
Great checklist–thanks for the encouragement. Hitting the throttle!
October 25, 2015 at 9:05 pm
wendymyersart
Thanks for the preflight, Mary! Climb to Level three zero ideas, cleared for takeoff. My previous career was as a pilot. 🙂 Yes on the CRITIQUE!
October 25, 2015 at 9:05 pm
Natasha Garnett
I am very fond of procrastinating and of making lists. I get a lot done that way. Check, check, check I go down the list. I need to move writing up to the TOP. I’d love to win The Little Kids’ Table. Thanks, Mary and Tara.
October 25, 2015 at 9:07 pm
The Logonauts (@thelogonauts)
Thanks for these! I must admit that my house always gets the cleanest when I have the most other things I really need to do!
October 25, 2015 at 9:10 pm
Amy Hansen Harding
I need to hit that throttle!
October 25, 2015 at 9:12 pm
Kaye Baillie
Fantastic description and advice. Thanks, Mary and Tara.
October 25, 2015 at 9:19 pm
Patricia Corcoran
Day 27 usually happens to me on day 10!
October 25, 2015 at 9:19 pm
Shirley Johnson
Shirley Johnson
October 25, 2015 at 9:24 pm
jennfowler
Thank you for the encouragement. I relate completely to your internal checklist. I’m looking forward to challenging myself by participating in my first PiBoIdMo experience.
October 25, 2015 at 9:25 pm
Shirley Johnson
Great post! Great start. (Put my registration on registration post)
October 25, 2015 at 9:26 pm
ingridboydston
As the Queen of Checklists, I gladly accept this (these) new lists! I will proceed with abandon and joy!
October 25, 2015 at 9:27 pm
hmmmmm
Hard to argue with THAT one-point checklist — thanks for sharing it!
October 25, 2015 at 9:31 pm
Johnell DeWitt
The time management post was very helpful. Thank you.
October 25, 2015 at 9:33 pm
Melanie
Such good advice! Taking it to heart as I am at this! “Critique”
October 25, 2015 at 9:44 pm
Anna Totten
I’m so amped to get started this year.
CRITIQUE
October 25, 2015 at 9:46 pm
Deirdre Englehart
I’m ready to get started. Thanks for the great advice. “Critique”
October 25, 2015 at 9:47 pm
donnacangelosi
Great advice. Ready to get started! Thank you, Mary!
October 25, 2015 at 9:50 pm
Brenda Huante
Thank you for the advice!
October 25, 2015 at 9:50 pm
Elizabeth
I’m pumped to get started too! Thanks for the chance to win your book!
October 25, 2015 at 9:54 pm
Lisa
Thanks for the jumpstart!
October 25, 2015 at 9:55 pm
Anna Levin
Thank you Mary for an inspiring post!
October 25, 2015 at 10:00 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Thanks for the tips, Mary! So pleased to meet you and your wonderful work. And especially pleased I can ignore my procrastination list with your permission. Mary says I don’t have to make my bed or wash my dishes today. 😉
October 25, 2015 at 10:00 pm
danielledufayet
Thank you for a great start to the challenge!
October 25, 2015 at 10:03 pm
Jim Chaize
Ready for take-off on the PiBoIdMo TL Jet.
October 25, 2015 at 10:09 pm
jodelle55
I’m excted to begin.
October 25, 2015 at 10:14 pm
Susan L. Roberts
I’m feeling the fear, but I’m trusting my imagination will kick in and I will soar. Thank you everyone on the team for the challenge!
October 25, 2015 at 10:17 pm
Juliana Lee
Yay! I’m NOT procrastinating PiBoIdMo… ready to begin!
October 25, 2015 at 10:24 pm
Donna L Martin
I’m ready, willing, and able to take flight into my PiBoIdMo future…;~)
Great kickoff post!
October 25, 2015 at 10:24 pm
angiekarcher
I’m so excited to begin Pre-PiBoIdMo and thrilled to see your post here Mary! Thx for your checklist! Congrats on THE LITTLE KIDS TABLE and your upcoming book with Pat! Keep on keepin’ on! Way to go!!
October 28, 2015 at 10:57 am
Mary Uhles
Hey Angie! yay so good to see you on here!
October 25, 2015 at 10:24 pm
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
I’ve realized that I’ll be getting introduced to new-to-me kid lit creators and their books during the next month. I’m excited to take part in this!
October 25, 2015 at 10:25 pm
Laurie Swindler
Ready for take-off!
October 25, 2015 at 10:27 pm
Maria Bostian
Mary,
I’m ready to take flight. Thanks for getting us ready for this adventure.
October 25, 2015 at 10:29 pm
Zoraida Rivera Morales
Commitment and imagination,words to keep in mind all the way through.
October 25, 2015 at 10:32 pm
Karen Santhanam
Thank you for helping us get started and reminding us to do the book only we can do! I’d love to have a critique with you!
October 25, 2015 at 10:37 pm
mwebb32
Thank for your encouraging post!
October 25, 2015 at 10:41 pm
Ann Kelley
Thanks for the wonderful pep talk! I’m ready for take off!
October 25, 2015 at 10:43 pm
Pam Miller
Mary,
Thank you for naming all my excuses. Inner child, for 35 days you’re mine.
October 25, 2015 at 10:48 pm
Parvati Patil
I really liked this sentence Mary Uhles:
“Can I reach beyond the distractions of now, beyond my brain saying “that’s a stupid idea”, beyond worrying if I’m good enough, beyond worrying if anyone else will like it, all the way to the place where I’m telling the story that only I can tell?”
Thanks so much for sharing.
CRITIQUE
Lotus Ivak
October 25, 2015 at 10:54 pm
ptnozell
Thank you for the encouragement & for sharing your procrastination checklist. Glad to know that I’m not the only one with such an extensive list. Now to take off & leave those distractions behind!
October 25, 2015 at 10:56 pm
Sbsmithson, Ph.D., MSW
Thank you so much for this energizing “before take-off prep talk”–I like the idea of having that mental checklist in order and getting into the right mindset. Much appreciated!
October 25, 2015 at 10:57 pm
saputnam
Great post, Mary! What a terrific way to begin PiBoIdMo! I’m taxing down the runway, ready for take-off.
I love your one internal checklist question… to “Reach beyond the distractions of now.” I also liked the Do’s and Don’ts in your article on time management, especially when you said, “We have to rest our muse. Your creative life is not balanced if there is not some time allotted for goofing off.”
October 25, 2015 at 11:01 pm
Brandi Payne
Great post! Thank you- Brandi Payne
October 25, 2015 at 11:07 pm
Kristi Bernard
It’s so funny how we all tend to find ways to procrastinate. Thanks for the insight.
October 25, 2015 at 11:07 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
Great advice to kick-off this challenge! Thank you!
October 25, 2015 at 11:14 pm
Kerri Dixon
Great Article 🙂 Procrastinating is something I need to stop doing
CRITIQUE
October 25, 2015 at 11:18 pm
Karen Brueggeman
Thanks for the great advise. 🙂
October 25, 2015 at 11:24 pm
Audelia Agustine
Dear Mary, I’m Audi, from Indonesia. Thank you for the article. I Like your Internal and external checklist. I guess those external checklist somestimes unbearable but IT IS my duty to do those house chores before doing the artsy things. I’m still learn to manage my time better.
I’m sign in for a CRITIQUE on illustration.
October 28, 2015 at 11:00 am
Mary Uhles
Hey Audi, I feel you, its true there are things we can’t NOT do (trust me, there are days when I would LOVE to leave my kids at the bus stop, not that I ever do. really;) I think we just have to remember that our creativity is a MUST DO as much as the dusting and homework and dinner
October 25, 2015 at 11:29 pm
jessicaevans915
Woohoo! Thanks for the inspiration and the kick in the backside to stop making excuses! I’d love to be considered for the CRITIQUE portion of the contest (as I be an illustrator).
October 25, 2015 at 11:31 pm
Cindy Jolley
I love the internal checklist. One question. What a great encouragement to get beyond all the distractions and focus on telling the story that only I can tell! “critique”
October 25, 2015 at 11:34 pm
Keila Dawson
Ready for take off. 🙂
October 25, 2015 at 11:51 pm
Dyann Joyce
Awesome as usual!! I would love a critique as I have been trying to win something with her for months- my idol!!! Dyann Joyce
October 25, 2015 at 11:59 pm
Pamela Courtney
Pamela Courtney
Throttle forward everyone. Up, up, and awaaaaay!
October 26, 2015 at 12:00 am
amievc
Thanks for the great advice. Checklists are so helpful–I especially like your preflight checklist! Put me down for the critique option!
October 26, 2015 at 12:06 am
tinawissner
All aboard we’re off
October 26, 2015 at 12:12 am
amomnextdoor
Thank you for telling me that my best characters are out there waiting for me. Now I’ll just go find them, like meeting someone who was always meant to be my friend.
October 26, 2015 at 12:19 am
Lori Dubbin
Thanks, Mary, for getting us ready inside and out. Full speed ahead!
October 26, 2015 at 12:22 am
Heather Kelso
Thank you for the reminder to ignore my inner negative voice that tries to stop my creative flow. My seat belt is securely fastened and I am ready for takeoff.
October 26, 2015 at 12:22 am
Sandy Powell
What a great kick-off post. Very motivating! Thank you!
Sandy Powell
October 26, 2015 at 12:34 am
apmartin2014
Thank you, Mary! You have inspired me to once again give my best shot to PiBoldMo 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 12:37 am
Leah Perlongo
Looking forward to following these tips. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 12:41 am
Kathleen Higgins
Checklist: check.
It is right under all the other checklists I’ve made and ignored.
Item 1: find my desk top
Item 2: clean the studio,
Item, 3: get organized
(…snort….insert hysterical giggling here)
“CRITIQUE”
Kathleen Higgins
October 26, 2015 at 12:59 am
michellemmead
Thanks for the positive vibes and good advice!
October 26, 2015 at 1:20 am
Sallianne Norelli
Love your work, Mary. You inspired me to join PiBoIdMo
October 26, 2015 at 1:22 am
Shari Schwarz
Yay! I’m so excited for PiBoIdMo! Thanks for the inspiring post!
October 26, 2015 at 1:24 am
Marge Gower
Thanks Mary. I’m glad I stopped by today. I didn’t know we were starting. Thanks for the encouragement.
October 26, 2015 at 1:30 am
Maria Marshall
Thank you for increasing the anticipation. Can’t wait to get started.
October 26, 2015 at 4:10 am
Helen Cooper
Love it! My checklist is entirely the external one – I need to start implementing the internal checklist instead 😀
October 26, 2015 at 4:25 am
Laurie L Young
It always helps to have a checklist. Thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 5:23 am
Jessica Nims
Excellent pep talk.
October 26, 2015 at 5:44 am
Ali Pfautz
Thank you! I am ready for takeoff!
October 26, 2015 at 6:03 am
imartypoet
CRITIQUE Thank you Mary for the inspiration! So great to have you with us for the launch. Marty Lapointe-Malchik
October 26, 2015 at 6:12 am
Beth Gallagher
Thanks for the inspiration! You’re so right about the excitement and anticipation. It’s sort of like waiting for a geyser to blow for me! PiBoIdMo gives me “permission” to open the gates and let the crowd of ideas that mill about in my head constantly form an orderly line and come out into the light. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 6:16 am
pattywaymedic
Wonderful analogy! Gets me excited !
October 26, 2015 at 6:18 am
Deborah Cuneo
I am a huge list maker so this fits right in, thanks!!
October 26, 2015 at 6:22 am
Lori Mozdzierz
Ready to take off, Captain!
October 26, 2015 at 6:36 am
andreesantini
Thanks for the encouragement to put away distractions! CRITIQUE
October 26, 2015 at 6:56 am
Dee Knabb
Love the launch analogy. Ready to fly.
October 26, 2015 at 7:03 am
Janet Smart
Thanks for the inspiration, Mary. Getting ready for the takeoff!
October 26, 2015 at 7:03 am
StephMWard
Wow, I will think of your words often when I question what the heck I’m doing trying to write children’s books!
Thanks so much for the advice…and the giveaway 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 7:16 am
Sheri Dillard
Great post! Thanks, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 7:24 am
lmconnors
Lisa Connors Love the metaphor to taking off in a plane. Thank you. I’m holding my breath and ready!
October 26, 2015 at 7:34 am
Kim Richards
I would love a CRITIQUE from Mary Uhles. What an exciting opportunity! Pick Me! Pick Me! (Lol)
October 26, 2015 at 7:56 am
Diane Kress Hower
Thanks for taking us down the runway Mary! Critique!
October 26, 2015 at 7:59 am
Jane Higgins Norton
What a great post to start PiBoldMo. Very inspirational! I love your work and your “internal checklist.” 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 8:09 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
Love the analogy. It’s the “plane” truth that there are distractions, but we writers fly on wings of hope.
October 26, 2015 at 8:18 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks Mary for the great kick-off checklist!! We’ll need all the encouragement we can get!
October 26, 2015 at 8:19 am
marcimcadam
Mary–I can’t believe you illustrated two books simultaneously in a year (on top of everything else)! That’s so inspiring! I’d love to be considered for the CRITIQUE.
October 26, 2015 at 8:26 am
Darlene
Mary – Thank you for the inspiring post and helpful tips! CRITIQUE”
October 26, 2015 at 8:59 am
Jennifer DuBose
“Oh, I LOVE that!” That’s a direct quote, from me, when I read your revised checklist. So affirming! Many thanks, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 9:05 am
Amy Houts
I liked your airplane metaphor. I’ve used a few of those same excuses. Best wishes with your work!
October 26, 2015 at 9:06 am
Patricia Kreiser
Looking forward to this month, and thank you for your post!
October 26, 2015 at 9:11 am
LauraLH
Great advice!
October 26, 2015 at 9:14 am
winemama
Thanks for the post, would love to win your book!
October 26, 2015 at 9:14 am
Holly Ruppel
Love your analogy, Mary! Time management is one of my weak points, so your Dos and Donts list will definitely come in handy. Thanks for the inspiration!
October 26, 2015 at 9:18 am
Claire Lordon (@ClaireLordon)
So excited for PiBoIdMo. Thanks for your checklist!
I’d be interested in the critique. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 9:19 am
Corey Finkle
Thanks, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 9:26 am
Wendy Martin Art
Congratulations on your wonderful books, Mary. Please add me to the drawing for the CRITQUE. 😀
October 26, 2015 at 9:27 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks for the great start up post and I’d love a “critique”! 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 9:28 am
Andrea Wang
I’m a huge list person so your post was right up my alley! Thank you for the great checklists and encouragement!
October 26, 2015 at 9:31 am
vickireinhardt2014
I loved the airplane metaphor! I’m ready for take-off! =)
October 26, 2015 at 9:31 am
Rebecca E. Guzinski
Thanks for the motivating post Mary! Looking forward to taking flight for
this year’s PiBoIdMo journey!
October 26, 2015 at 9:33 am
Barbara Cairns
Mary, i love lists, so thoroughly enjoyed your post. Your covers are amazing. Thanks for sharing with us.
October 26, 2015 at 9:38 am
okeefemk
I could relate to this so much. Thank you, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 9:40 am
yangmommy
I’m relieved to find out that I’m not the only one battling the “That’s a Stupid Idea” monster! So for the month of November, and hopefully beyond, I hereby become a “stupid idea monster slayer!” 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 9:42 am
Wendy Greenley
I’m a nervous flyer, but I know the plane is going up so I’ll clench my fists and be brave. 🙂 Thanks for the kick-off, kick in the pants.
October 26, 2015 at 9:43 am
Jill Tadros
CRITIQUE – I am copying down the last quote and placing it at my art table to remember to get to the story that only I can tell!
October 26, 2015 at 9:45 am
ciccotello
This is inspiring. Thanks! “CRITIQUE”
October 26, 2015 at 9:47 am
Marilyn Garcia
Wow, that one question checklist is still fairly daunting. It seems like that is THE demon that stalks every creative endeavor. What a great thing to remember!
October 26, 2015 at 9:49 am
Robyn Campbell
Mary, thanks bunches. This post was so encouraging. The list is fantastic. I have to make it mine too. I’m not an illustrator so I’ll choose the picture book. BTW, Love your illustrations. They are so much fun. And thank you, Tara. I’m ready to go.
October 26, 2015 at 9:53 am
ammwrite3
Are you inside my head? You hit the internal questions right–Ready for takeoff!
October 26, 2015 at 9:57 am
mkresk
Thank you for the tips and also for linking back to your time management post. That was very helpful, as well. Cheers!
October 26, 2015 at 9:59 am
Laura K Zimmermann
Thank you, Mary…I’m ready!
October 26, 2015 at 10:04 am
Erin O'Brien
Love the one question checklist! Thank you, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 10:07 am
Jennifer Phillips
Would love to win a copy of Mary’s book. Nice words of advice…thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 10:27 am
LovableLobo
I’m ready, and armed with cookies (maybe bird seed?) to coax out that gaggle of brand new characters. Super uplifting post, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 10:28 am
Danna York
Beautiful books and titles!! I love the reasons we don’t do our work-keep pushing!
October 26, 2015 at 10:29 am
Judy Cox
Great advice!
October 26, 2015 at 10:32 am
katrinamoorebooks
Great checklist to help us takeoff. Thank you, Mary! “Critique”
October 26, 2015 at 10:32 am
lindaschueler
This is my favorite part of your post: “Can I reach beyond the distractions of now, beyond my brain saying “that’s a stupid idea”, beyond worrying if I’m good enough, beyond worrying if anyone else will like it, all the way to the place where I’m telling the story that only I can tell?”
Thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 10:36 am
Mariama Ross
This may not be the best blog I’ve ever read but it is definitely one of the best. And it was what I needed to hear today. Thank you. I would love to win a CRITIQUE by Mary.
October 26, 2015 at 10:44 am
Pia Garneau
We all need that quiet time before take off. Thanks for the reminder.
October 26, 2015 at 10:53 am
rosiepova
Pushing forward and up 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 10:57 am
JEN Garrett
Checking my Checklist now! I can see why Tara asked you to post. It’s wonderful. I think in words, but I’d love a chance to win the picture book.
October 26, 2015 at 10:58 am
writerjodimoore
*pushes throttle forward* Thanks, Mary. Your pictures warm my heart. Your words both inspire and encourage. Perfect. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 11:03 am
Marcie Colleen
Thank you for this encouragement, Mary. Ready for takeoff. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 11:06 am
Jacqueline Adams
I love the take-off analogy. That’s always my favorite part of the flight. Looking at your beautiful covers makes me wish I were an illustrator so I could register for that part of the prize!
October 26, 2015 at 11:10 am
Annelouise
Thank you Mary Uhles for helping us get ready for our flight with compassion and understanding of the creative journey ahead. I stand with my checklist in hand, ready for the mission ahead. You are truly inspiring, thank you!
October 26, 2015 at 11:21 am
rgstones
Great kick-off. I love the airplane analogy.
October 26, 2015 at 11:34 am
skeerswriter
Wonderful way to het started — and I LOVE the idea of a book about the “kid’s table!” Who hasn’t been there?
October 26, 2015 at 11:36 am
Shannon Bartoshewski
The first checklist you mentioned is far too often the one that stops me before I start …probably because I also have that fear of my work not measuring up, so it’s easy to find an excuse not to begin. I would love to win a CRITIQUE; and now that I’ve said it, I’m going to get to work!
October 26, 2015 at 11:37 am
Ana Velez
Critique. Thank you for the inspiring words and suggestions.
October 26, 2015 at 11:45 am
Dorothy Wiese
I can’t even draw good stick figures, and I admire people who illustrate. Your comments are great for writers too. Thanks.
October 26, 2015 at 11:50 am
colleenrkosinski
Congratulations on your books, Mary!!!
October 26, 2015 at 11:50 am
claireannette1
Hi Mary – thanks for helping to get us prepared for a great PiBoIdMo!
October 26, 2015 at 11:51 am
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for the encouragement.
October 26, 2015 at 11:54 am
Rosi Hollinbeck
Procrastination is, unfortunately, my middle name. Notice I am a day late commenting on this post! Thanks for the good advice.
October 26, 2015 at 11:59 am
tusca1
Critique. Unfortunately procrastination and I are very good friends. thank you for helpful advice.
October 26, 2015 at 12:08 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Ready for takeoff, Mary! Thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 12:09 pm
Barb Nypaver Kupetz
A great first day post! Thank you, Mary.
October 26, 2015 at 12:13 pm
Erin Nowak
CRITIQUE! Thank you Mary for offering this prize, for sharing your work with us, and for sharing some time management tips then and now. I need them!
October 26, 2015 at 12:18 pm
Barbara Kupetz
A great start to PiBoIdMo. Thanks, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 12:27 pm
Sandy Perlic
Love that final question: it really is what it all boils down to. And that’s our challenge during PiBoIdMo.
October 26, 2015 at 12:28 pm
gweddle
Thanks Mary. I am an avid list maker! Your check-list fits right in.
October 26, 2015 at 1:01 pm
tanjabauerle
Your procrastination check list made me chuckle. I have to raise my hand and say, that all those sound very familiar to me. Splendid post. Thank you for the kick-start. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 1:05 pm
Christie Allred
I love the airplane visual. It’s very PiBoIdMo-like. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 1:08 pm
Geralyn Hess-Underwood
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts. The gem I picked out for myself was, moving beyond all the roadblocks to telling the story only you can tell. Thanks so much for that boost of encouragement!!!
October 26, 2015 at 1:10 pm
Charlotte Dixon
Mary, thank you for the checklist. This is a good take-off to PiBoIdMo 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 1:11 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for the inspirational checklist, Mary! Looking forward to reading your books!
October 26, 2015 at 1:12 pm
Lynn A. Davidson
This is a good start to encourage us. For me, oh yes, I have so much going on in my brain, and other things to do that are important and time-consuming; however, I love the writing stimulation PiBoIdMo affords me. This is my fifth year of the seven Tara has done this, and I appreciate so much the ‘before and after’ posts as much as the full 30 days of amazing posts. Thank you, Mary for this boost.
October 26, 2015 at 1:13 pm
Shawna JC Tenney
Awesome! Thanks for the boost Mary! We can do this!
October 26, 2015 at 1:19 pm
saundrasstudio
Love the checklist! Thank you for this wonderful post!
October 26, 2015 at 1:20 pm
Colleen Sims
Working on my own checklist now; thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 1:28 pm
Myrna Foster
Thanks! Procrastination really is my worst enemy. Love your covers!
October 26, 2015 at 1:35 pm
Sue Morris @ KidLitReviews
Procrastination is a big time killer. Right now I am in the middle of a review post, but stopped when this email post clicked into my inbox. So procrastination is not always bad. 😆
October 26, 2015 at 1:41 pm
Frankie Laursen
Thank you for kicking us off!
October 26, 2015 at 1:48 pm
mollywog2015
Thank you for the revised checklist. I have totally been there with the procrastination one! CRITIQUE
October 26, 2015 at 1:50 pm
Elizabeth Metz
Mary, I literally read this post while waiting to board a plane this morning and have since take two flights. I paid close attention both times for the stillness pre-takeoff. Needless to say, your metaphors hit home for me. Thanks for the encouragement!!
Oh, and …CRITIQUE. 😊
October 26, 2015 at 2:01 pm
F. G. M. Kalavritinos
I’m going to replace “procrastination” with “push forward”!
October 26, 2015 at 2:02 pm
katmaz2012
I love the analogy of flight. Great way to start-thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 2:11 pm
Sylvia Liu
Awesome advice, Mary!
October 26, 2015 at 2:15 pm
Vicky Wirkkala
What a great inspiration to begin this journey! Looking forward to this experience. Thank you for this!
CRITIQUE
October 26, 2015 at 2:25 pm
Val McCammon
Perfect internal checklist! Thank you, Mary, for a terrific kick-off post.
October 26, 2015 at 2:38 pm
DragonLadyArt
CRITIQUE
Thank you for this post, it was so very needed for me. I have just started on my first illustration journey, and the external list is something I’m struggling with a lot at the moment. 💜
October 26, 2015 at 2:50 pm
Emily Wayne (@emilywayneart)
CRITIQUE
love the analogy! and the internal checklist!
October 26, 2015 at 3:00 pm
csheer18
I especially like #4 on your pre-flight checklist!
Great way to rev the engines for PiBoIdMo, Mary…THANK YOU!
Your cover illustrations make opening the books (shown) seem irresistible….
October 26, 2015 at 3:06 pm
Dawn Young
Thanks for sharing. I love your illustrations 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 3:11 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Ready for take-off, Mary! Thanks for the inspiration an I love your illustrations. PIBOIDMO’15 here we go!
October 26, 2015 at 3:20 pm
Liv'ee Rehfield
YAY! #1…Thank you for including me…
October 26, 2015 at 3:32 pm
Laura Jean Watters
I found myself taking long, slow, deep breaths as I read the piece….wonderful!
critique
October 26, 2015 at 3:46 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
I like starting off with a plane taxiing (Is this a word? Is it spelled correctly? Ugh! This is embarrassing.) down the runway. Thanks, Mary. Come back on the last day and land this bird….
October 26, 2015 at 3:57 pm
Stephen S. Martin
check, check and double check! ready to go!
October 26, 2015 at 4:45 pm
iamteresabeeman
Thanks for the insight and encouragement. This is my first PiBoIdMo, so it’s great to get some guidance from a pro.
October 26, 2015 at 5:13 pm
Amy Bradshaw
I am a newbie and can’t wait to get started! Go PiBoIdMo!
October 26, 2015 at 5:13 pm
Helen Matthews
Gosh, so reassuring to hear that everyone (seems that it’s almost everyone) goes through virtually the same cycle – not now, need to finish my other stuff then I can focus on my next writing project, no one will publish this, cute premise but I don’t know where I’m going with this… My personal favourite is – I want to write in the morning / daytime, but the only time I have for writing (after work, kids, life) is late evenings by which point I have no energy or motivation… The only way forward forward is JDI – JUST DO IT!
October 26, 2015 at 5:21 pm
Shari Della Penna
Love your list. My arms are flapping!
October 26, 2015 at 5:26 pm
Sheri Radovich
Thank you Mary for the insight and your ability to accomplish more than one task at a time. I have my notebook and new pen ready for the ideas to flow.
October 26, 2015 at 5:31 pm
Doris Stone
Thank you, Mary, for an excellent post. I love your post and am so excited for PiBoIdMo! What a wonderful start!
October 26, 2015 at 5:42 pm
City Sights for Kids
Love this: “At your final destination you’ll be greeted by a gaggle of brand new characters.They are your BEST ideas and they are waiting for you.” Thanks for the inspiration! -Amanda
October 26, 2015 at 5:42 pm
Carol Jones
I just went to a writers’ workshop where the keynote speaker spoke for 45 minutes and essentially said (in a boring way) what you’ve boiled down into one wonderful sentence!
October 26, 2015 at 6:21 pm
thduggie
Thanks, that’s a helpful analogy!
October 26, 2015 at 6:22 pm
MercedesOrtiz
CRITIQUE. Amazing advice! I can’t wait to take off!
October 26, 2015 at 6:49 pm
Lynette Oxley
Great book cover for The Little Kids’ Table!
October 26, 2015 at 6:50 pm
Rhymerheimer
CRITIQUE
October 26, 2015 at 6:52 pm
Maria J Cuesta
Critique
THANKS a lot! I love the post as much as I love flying. Thanks for the inspiration!
October 26, 2015 at 6:53 pm
Pamela Haskin
You really hit the nail on the head with that image of the plane. That’s exactly what I feel like right now. Looking forward to every day this month.
October 26, 2015 at 6:54 pm
DaNeil Olson
Fabulous advice! If we wait for “everything” to be done or perfect before we begin we will never begin. 🙂
October 26, 2015 at 6:56 pm
Alberto "NiñoCactus"
Getting prepared for the journey! Thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 8:14 pm
theresastales
I’m so excited for this opportunity as a writer.
October 26, 2015 at 8:22 pm
laurensoloy
Love that internal checklist! I will return to that again and again – thank you. CRITIQUE
October 26, 2015 at 8:34 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
“Reach beyond the distractions.” Now that is good advice. Thank you!
October 26, 2015 at 8:35 pm
Teresa Daffern
Thank for this Mary. I often procrastinate in the same exact way you describe, but I’m getting better.
October 26, 2015 at 8:39 pm
ellenramsey
Thanks, Mary, for a wonderful “take-off” post. It was fun to hear from you–we met at Rutgers a few years ago.
October 26, 2015 at 8:42 pm
Marty McCormick
You’re so right about that external checklist. So easy to procrastinate. Am copying the internal checklist at the head of my idea list to remind myself all November what really matters here.
October 26, 2015 at 8:55 pm
Yvonne Mes
Thanks for the take-off!
October 26, 2015 at 9:29 pm
Kristen C. Strocchia =)
Finger on the pulse of my inner-child… I like that. Especially because I have 6 little-me’s running around keeping my childish pulse pumping. =)
October 26, 2015 at 9:42 pm
June Smalls
I love the lists! I wish I had a thimble worth of illustrator talent! Those covers are amazing!
October 26, 2015 at 9:45 pm
Christie Wright Wild
Great checklist! I need to say NO to the voice of distractions all the time. Don’t we all? Thanks!
October 26, 2015 at 9:51 pm
Joanne Sher
Did I EVER need this reminder! Thank you for nudging me ignore the nasty voices in my head and MAKE the time to write my picture books. Great stuff 🙂
Joanne Sher
October 26, 2015 at 9:57 pm
Marge Gower
Thanks for the pep talk and check lists. Your covers are great.
October 26, 2015 at 11:01 pm
Andrea Poppleton
My external checklist sounds a lot like #1 and #3 of yours! Thank you for the image of the still, quiet airplane, awaiting takeoff. I want to take off! So I must me still and quiet, first.
October 26, 2015 at 11:57 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Thanks for the checklists!
October 27, 2015 at 1:39 am
Carol Gwin Nelson
I love your internal checklist. I need to toss the external one and embrace an internal checklist. Thanks!
October 27, 2015 at 3:30 am
angelcat2014
Love the checklist. Thanks for setting us on course. I can’t wait to get started. 🙂
October 27, 2015 at 8:10 am
jacque
My procrastination list actually helps me get my engines roaring, it is amasing how may things get sorted when I vacuum. ‘critique’
October 27, 2015 at 8:17 am
Sharon Giltrow
Thanks Mary I’m ready for take off I love flying and travelling to faraway places. I am using the external checklist for fuel.
October 27, 2015 at 8:41 am
Ginger Johnson
Thanks for the post! So true! CRITIQUE
October 27, 2015 at 9:37 am
mona861
Must lock out procrastination, and get ready for take off! What a great post to start us on our journey. Thanks, Mary!
October 27, 2015 at 9:55 am
Anita Banks
Thank you Mary!
October 27, 2015 at 9:57 am
Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky
Mary, I have the hardest time getting past ‘other work’….it’s my most pervading procrastination component. Thanks for helping me see the futility of that first point. Loved your post…buckling my seatbelt.
October 27, 2015 at 10:07 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
CRITIQUE
Thank you for being part of PiBoldMo
October 27, 2015 at 10:19 am
Joanne Roberts
Thanks for a peek at how to lay aside my external checklist and get things done. Very helpful. I also appreciated the link to your time management post.
October 27, 2015 at 10:26 am
laura516
Ready for take-off!
October 27, 2015 at 10:55 am
Amy S.
Thank you, Mary, for the checklist – and the one question that really matters.
October 27, 2015 at 11:01 am
mandelcanter
I am aboard.
Suzy Mandel Canter
October 27, 2015 at 11:09 am
Tara J. Hannon
CRITIQUE
I am terrified of flying. So this metaphor was actually spot on for the launch of PiBoIdMo. Because I am also terrified of failure and rejection and pretty much anything that I am not good at (Ew, what a terrible thing to admit out loud). But lets face it – I fly (white knuckled) even though I am scared because it takes me where I want to go. This is my first PiBoIdMo – heres hoping I can get my ideas out on paper and they can take me where I need to go! – So cheesy – but so true. White knuckled fist pumps all around!
October 27, 2015 at 11:40 am
Traci Sorell
Thank you, Mary, for your great checklist. I’ll check out your time management post.
October 27, 2015 at 1:45 pm
Nadine Gamble
I’m ready for the challenge!
October 27, 2015 at 1:46 pm
shiela fuller
Thank you, Mary , for the pre-post! Gearing up and getting ready to fly!
October 27, 2015 at 2:22 pm
myndiem
Critique
October 27, 2015 at 2:23 pm
Janet Halfmann
I”m ready to push the throttle! Thanks!
October 27, 2015 at 2:27 pm
Talia
Internal checklist is now on sticky note on my desk. Thanks for sharing!
October 27, 2015 at 3:07 pm
Debra Shumaker
Love this post. I’m totally behind already, but trying to find that still moment. Thanks for doing this!
October 27, 2015 at 3:08 pm
Carrie Moore Chan
I love the idea of getting away from our external checklist because it may cause us to drag along. Great motivation! Thanks.
October 27, 2015 at 3:12 pm
karadhya
Thanks for the inspiration, Mary. Trying to rev up my engine to be ready for takeoff!
October 27, 2015 at 5:23 pm
Emily (Veela) Walzer
Thanks so much – really like the challenge to get to one’s own runway. Ah yes, and if my lucky post is drawn, then: CRITIQUE! Whee!
October 27, 2015 at 6:00 pm
Freckled Daisy Creations
What a rocking way to start! I can’t wait to spend the month with s new cast of characters. Like imaginary friends coming to life…hmmm what will they wear?
October 27, 2015 at 6:55 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Thanks for the words of inspiration, Mary! Great way to start!
October 27, 2015 at 6:59 pm
Linda Carpenter
Mary – Awesome! Ideas already flying around and around!
But know I will hit the wall mid month – but so excited. Just what was needed to get the juices flowing…
Many thanks!
October 27, 2015 at 7:19 pm
Sarah Harroff
Thanks Mary! You paint a vivid word picture. My seatbelt’s fastened. Let’s go! – Sarah Harroff
October 27, 2015 at 7:20 pm
aliciaminor
You deserved to be a part of this year’s PiBoIdMo because we need that checklist idea too. Let me think…
October 27, 2015 at 11:20 pm
Linda Baie
Wonderful way to get us ready for ‘take-off’! Thank you.
October 28, 2015 at 12:00 am
Kelly Rice Schmitt
What a great start to the week! Thank you for your words of motivation.
October 28, 2015 at 1:13 am
Sherry Alexander
This is my problem “Can I reach beyond the distractions of now.” So thank you for the inspiration.
October 28, 2015 at 6:33 am
Kara
Ohh. This post inspired me. I’m new to this and needed that check list. I’m going to save them to my computer so I can remember during November. Thank you.
October 28, 2015 at 8:21 am
Maria Barbella
CRITIQUE: Mary Uhles, Awesome art/illustrations! Sketchbook and all you provide the viewer. I’ve asked my librarian to order one of your books.
Thank you, Maria Barbella
October 28, 2015 at 9:45 am
Heather Pierce Stigall
Thanks for getting us ready for lift off!
October 28, 2015 at 9:58 am
Reena Balding
Thanks Mary. It’s good to know a bit more what to expect and what to avoid.
October 28, 2015 at 11:39 am
Kelly Vavala
Thank you so much for the inspiration Mary….ready for take off!!
October 28, 2015 at 12:08 pm
stephaniegeckle
What an exciting beginning! I love the airplane metaphor 🙂 Fasten your seatbelts!
October 28, 2015 at 12:31 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
Ready for take-off!
October 28, 2015 at 1:54 pm
melinda beavers
Have you ever noticed, that even when the plane gets very still—it gets really LOUD?
LOL, in a way, it’s the same here—and it’s wonderful to see so many voices calling out to be heard and cheering each other on.
October 28, 2015 at 3:09 pm
Ashley Bankhead
Thank you for this post. I really need to make sure I ask myself that last question.
October 28, 2015 at 3:43 pm
Santiago Casares
Thanks for getting our engines running, Mary… and now, to find the time (and no excuses!) for PIBoIdMo!
October 28, 2015 at 4:22 pm
rythmicrhyme
I love your phrase and image of keeping your, “Finger on the pulse of your inner child”. A good reminder for imagining, acknowledging and remembering the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of childhood. To feel a pulse requires stillness, attention and a light touch.
As blood flows, so too will inspiration. Thank you
October 28, 2015 at 8:12 pm
kristin abbott
Everyone needs a kick in the pants and I seem to need one OFTEN. Thanks for a post that is the kick for the day
🙂
October 28, 2015 at 8:19 pm
Linda Hofke
thanks for the checklist and the encouragement.
October 28, 2015 at 9:29 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Great advice!
October 28, 2015 at 10:28 pm
Cathy Biggerstaff
Great post, Mary! What an exciting send off for PiBoIdMo.
October 29, 2015 at 3:43 am
ritaborg
I am an author and aspiring to be an author/illustator, but the critque is a bit much for now.
October 29, 2015 at 5:33 am
yetteejo
good advice to begin the challenge with. Thanks.
October 29, 2015 at 9:36 am
Lane Arnold (@lanearnold)
“Where everything was very, very still.” Still enough to let the ideas be heard and seen.
October 29, 2015 at 10:00 am
Derick
Great post, Mary! So glad to find out I’m not the only one with a streak of “nagging negativity” trying to keep me from exploring all ideas, silly or not! 🙂
October 29, 2015 at 10:04 am
Joan Waites
Thanks for the great kick-off!
October 29, 2015 at 12:07 pm
Cindy C.
Thank you Mary for your uplifting (pardon the pun) analogy and reminder to put picture books first. I’m going to check into your time management link…I need all the help I can get! CRITIQUE pls.
October 29, 2015 at 12:50 pm
Jen Carroll
A really helpful image. Thanks!
October 29, 2015 at 3:05 pm
Marileta Robinson
“. . . the beginning of my own runway. Where everything was very, very still.” Love that! Thanks for the good advice.
October 29, 2015 at 5:38 pm
Midge Smith
Wonderful advice!
October 29, 2015 at 7:03 pm
mpinkstone
Inspiring words — thank you! (Critique)
October 29, 2015 at 7:42 pm
cat jones
Thanks for the checklist. I’ve a feeling it’s going to be handy over the next few weeks!
October 29, 2015 at 11:17 pm
Christine McCarthy
Love the airplane analogy–my favorite moment in a journey is that second before take-off. Time management is a bear–thanks for the link. I’ll check that out next.
October 30, 2015 at 12:46 am
Dani Duck
Mary is such a fantastic person to choose for the first day of Pre-PiBoIdMo. absolutely adored the wonderful post you did for my blog! You have this uncanny ability to know exactly what people need to hear in order to get the job done. I don’t know how you do it, just know that I am in utter awe. Thank you for this fantastic advice to start us out right for PiBoIdMo!
I would LOVE to win a Portfolio CRITIQUE from Mary!
October 30, 2015 at 9:15 am
bleakx
I will certainly write the word “critique” on a notecard and put it under my desk. I’ll manage my internal criticisms later, take a breath and move forward with your encouraging words.
October 30, 2015 at 2:35 pm
Beth Blee
Mary, thanks for your checklist and the revised internal checklist. Thanks for the encouragement.
October 30, 2015 at 3:46 pm
Kathryn Kass
Lovely Illustrations!
October 30, 2015 at 3:53 pm
Rebecca Colby
I need to get rid of my external checklist and go with your internal one! Great post! Thanks for kicking things off and getting us motivate and inspired.
October 30, 2015 at 4:26 pm
authordeb
As a writer, I’m very interested to hear about picture books from an illustrator’s point of view. Thanks for sharing!
October 30, 2015 at 8:39 pm
Karen Lawler
OHHHH I wish I could illustrate anything!!!!! 🙂
October 31, 2015 at 2:39 am
Claire O'Brien
Good advice, thanks
Critique
October 31, 2015 at 8:45 am
Susan Schade
I especially related to the advice that “not everything else has to be done before you write.” Good reminder. Thank you.
October 31, 2015 at 9:06 am
Jennifer Weingardt
Thank you for helping me look beyond the distractions of now.
October 31, 2015 at 10:17 am
storyfairy
Great post, Mary Uhles. I agree that imagination and nurturing one’s inner child are both very important. Oh, and it’s sooo cool that you used to do animation for Warner Brothers and Fisher Price Interactive! 🙂
October 31, 2015 at 12:26 pm
David McMullin
It can be so hard to get past those distractions. There is always a new one lying in wait. Thanks for the advice, Mary!
October 31, 2015 at 3:02 pm
LaurenKerstein
You captured the external checklist so well! I strive to use the internal checklist from now on. Thank you for starting us off on a great flight path!
October 31, 2015 at 3:15 pm
sschwartz28
Thanks for the advice and the encouragement!
October 31, 2015 at 3:36 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Thanks for the inspiration and great advice, Mary 🙂 I’m ready to push the throttle forward!
October 31, 2015 at 9:27 pm
Deborah Allmand
Distractions are slayers of creativity. Thanks for the external checklist.
October 31, 2015 at 8:19 pm
Indie Book Gal (@Indiebookgal)
My most productive time is having deadlines, no doubt!, That’s why I signed up for PiBoIdMo. Then, each month, I need a PiBoQuWe (Picture Book Query week) i.e. a week to send out query letters! Takers, anyone? 🎃🎃🎃
CRITIQUE
November 1, 2015 at 1:25 am
writersideup
Loved your “time management” article on Dani Duck, Mary 🙂 Thanks!
November 1, 2015 at 5:25 am
Katelyn Aronson
Thank you for the send-off, Mary, and bon voyage everyone!
November 1, 2015 at 8:13 am
Jenna Woloshyn
What a great question. I’m really good at telling myself I shouldn’t start if I’m going to be interrupted. And with 3 kids, guess what’s inevitable? I will work to change that thinking.
November 1, 2015 at 9:43 am
nicolezoltack
Great post!
November 1, 2015 at 11:09 am
Brook Gideon
The internal checklist is the hardest one to accomplish, thank you for the inspiration to do so!
November 1, 2015 at 2:17 pm
Mark A. bentz
Thank you for the great post, very encouraging.
November 1, 2015 at 7:50 pm
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Thank you for your checklist!
November 1, 2015 at 8:50 pm
Emily Goldstein
My seat back is upright and my tray table is stowed!
November 1, 2015 at 10:33 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
With your words of encouragement, Mary, I am ready for take off.
[Critique or book]
~Suzy Leopold
November 2, 2015 at 12:09 am
Viva Tomlin
Viva Tomlin. Thank you for providing practical friendship as we start out!
November 2, 2015 at 1:56 am
jennyrusks
I’m a little bit late – running all the way to the departure gate, panting as I’m last to board the plane, getting dirty looks from the other passengers, but delighted to get into my seat and ready to go. Thank you for the inspiration Mary 🙂
November 2, 2015 at 7:43 am
cookie fairy
Great article!
November 2, 2015 at 10:19 am
svaisnoras
Love the checklist idea. Thank you.
November 2, 2015 at 11:21 am
angeladegroot8
All strapped in and ready for take off – here we go!
November 2, 2015 at 11:25 am
Brianna Zamborsky
Sounds like marathon training! Thanks!
November 2, 2015 at 11:32 am
jeanjames
Wow this was brilliant…I got the same feeling of butterflies in my stomach reading this, that I actually get when I’m about to take off on a real flight!! Thanks for the inspiration!
November 2, 2015 at 3:08 pm
Kathryn Jean Hagen
Love the take-off metaphor and the procrastination check-list. The first inspires me, and the second hits the bulls-eye for my unfortunately effective delaying tactics. Thank you Mary!
November 2, 2015 at 4:44 pm
Deborah Allmand
Lovely ideas and wonderful checklist! Thank you so much!
November 2, 2015 at 9:53 pm
Tracy Molitors
Mary, Lots to think about. Thanks!
November 2, 2015 at 11:09 pm
Marti Johns
I love the airplane take-off metaphor. I’ll actually be flying some during this month. I’m a terribly procrastinator, so hopefully, I’ll be able to silence those distraction voices in my head. Thanks for the inspiration, Mary.
November 2, 2015 at 11:25 pm
Caroline Lee Webster (@uncoverthepearl)
What a great internal checklist. I have your question posted at the start of my PiBoIdMo journal.
November 3, 2015 at 11:10 am
Donna Rossman (@RossmanDonna)
Many thanks, Mary, for the inspiration! Love your checklist!
November 3, 2015 at 2:13 pm
Carrie Finison
I’ve been half-reading the posts on-the-go for the last week, waiting for that moment when I was at the start of the runway with no distractions. It’s finally here! I love that analogy and it’s exactly how I feel. Thank you for putting it into words!
November 3, 2015 at 7:29 pm
kmshelley
Excellent advice! Thanks so much.
November 3, 2015 at 10:49 pm
bonzerb
Great advice, thank you!
November 3, 2015 at 10:50 pm
Kathleen Admirand-Dimmler
Kathleen Admirand-Dimmler
November 4, 2015 at 6:18 am
Fran Price
I’ve made it to the start of the runway, but the plane’s been waiting so long I think it has run out of fuel.
November 4, 2015 at 1:02 pm
artsyandi
I’m great at procrastinating and surrounding myself with distractions. Will be searching for that quiet moment often this month. Thanks!
November 4, 2015 at 4:01 pm
Kelly Parker
Getting past the distractions and interuptions is always so hard. Thank you for sharing!
November 5, 2015 at 10:59 am
Tyler A. Oswald
What a perfect first post–I teach composition and children’s lit at a local university, and I have three little boys at home. My External Checklist is a MONSTER–thanks so much for the reminder to set it aside, roll up my sleeves, and just enjoy some time to myself with my writing!
November 5, 2015 at 1:16 pm
QuinnC
Terrific analogy. I love to fly and heard the message loud and clear. Thanks!
November 6, 2015 at 8:25 am
Anna Smith
This was some of the best advice I have gotten. I sat at my drawing table and tuned everything out and when I was done I had some beautiful watercolor to show for it. Thank you!
November 6, 2015 at 12:10 pm
Rachel Anderson
I’m a checklist kind of gal. Thanks for getting us on the runway.
November 8, 2015 at 2:01 am
Shelley Marshall
The only “stupid idea” is when we don’t record every idea we have.
Now grab your pen or keyboard and get written down.
November 13, 2015 at 10:13 pm
fishpatti
Thank you so much for the internal checklist; I wrote it in the front cover of my PiBoIdMo sketch book/journal for inspiration every day!
November 15, 2015 at 10:40 am
Jon Blauvelt
Thanks for the kick-off!
November 15, 2015 at 2:41 pm
Paula Cohen-Martin
Such a perfectly timed post to reread today!
November 16, 2015 at 9:33 am
angelapenadahle
I love this PiBoIdMo checklist. I need it this year. Normally, I’m great with conjuring ideas up, but this year seems to be a struggle. I know I’ll manage in the end, because I have every year, but this checklist is a great comfort this year. Thanks!
November 22, 2015 at 8:58 am
angelapadron
great advice – thanks!
November 24, 2015 at 3:04 pm
Janice Brown
Wonderful! Just what I needed to read. Thank you!
November 30, 2015 at 9:32 pm
shirley johnson
Great checklist!
December 5, 2015 at 10:29 pm
Nancy Kotkin
Great metaphor!