January 26, 2018 10:32 am
Where do ideas come from? Why, from caffeine of course! And books. Books and caffeine are the best combination. Join me for a virtual cup of tea while I read to you from some picture books that have deep insights into the creative process.
“Toad put his head very close to the ground and shouted. ‘NOW SEEDS, START GROWING!’
Frog came running up the path.
‘What’s all this noise?’ he asked.
‘My seeds will not grow,’ said Toad.
‘You are shouting too much,’ said Frog. ‘These poor seeds are afraid to grow.'”
~ Arnold Lobel, FROG AND TOAD TOGETHER
Story ideas are seeds. They are scared of loud noises. They don’t like being told they aren’t good enough to write down, or they are too much like another idea. They tend to flee when criticized, and they take their friends with them.
Don’t scare off your ideas by holding out unrealistic standards. (“You must be polished and ready to publish!” or “You must be absolutely unique!”) Let your ideas grow at their own pace. Treat them all as worthy of being jotted into your notebook, or on the back of receipt, or typed into your phone. Remember they are just seeds, and they might arrive as a single word, or an incomplete image. They will grow.
In Henkes’ Caldecott-winning title, Kitten tries, and tries, and tries to drink the big bowl of milk in the sky, and fails miserably.
“So, she went back home—and there was a great big bowl of milk on the porch, just waiting for her.”
~ Kevin Henkes, KITTEN’S FIRST FULL MOON
Inspiration can be elusive. If we chase after it, we often fail to catch it. But then, when we’ve exhausted every effort, an idea will be sitting on the porch, just waiting for us. Sometimes the best ideas come when you are sitting in traffic, or shoveling the driveway, or generally not looking for them.
Still stuck? Have a cup of tea with a friend. (Or whatever it is that you like to drink—beer, moonlight, tears of your enemies are all acceptable.)
“Susan liked Fredrick’s ideas, and he liked hers.”
~ Dean Robbins, TWO FRIENDS
Sometimes it’s a simple as that, my friends. Share your ideas. You will both come away with more than you started with, just like Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass do when they share tea and thoughts, in this beautiful book.
“Every tiny atom in your body came from a star that exploded long before you were born.”
~ Elin Kelsey. YOU ARE STARDUST
Finally, a reminder: It is amazing and magical to be alive and reading blog posts and brainstorming story ideas. Tap into your stardust magic. Pause as you are taking out the trash to look at the sky. Go for a walk in the woods. Take a minute right now and hold your hand up to a sun and watch photons streaming through your fingers from space.
This is also a reminder to not take yourself or your ideas too seriously. You are but a bit of leftover star swirling in a minor galaxy in an expanding universe. No one cares if that idea you just had is stupid, and you shouldn’t either. Write it down.
No one cares if you don’t have an idea right now, and you shouldn’t either. Take a nap or go for a walk. Your ideas will grow while you aren’t paying attention.
When you come back, they may be sitting on the porch.
Jeanette Bradley has been an urban planner, an apprentice pastry chef, and the artist-in-residence for a traveling art museum on a train. Her debut picture book LOVE, MAMA was published by Roaring Brook Press in January 2018. It contains no cities, pastries, or trains, but was made with lots of love. She currently lives in Rhode Island with her wife and kids. Find her online at: JeanetteBradley.com, on Twitter @jeanettebradley, and on Instagram @jea_bradley.
Jeanette is giving away a copy of LOVE, MAMA.
Leave ONE COMMENT on this blog post to enter. You are eligible to win if you are a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below. Prizes will be given away at the conclusion of the event.
Good luck!
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: STORYSTORM 2018
Tags: Jeanette Bradley, LOVE MAMA
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Thanks for the reminder and the inspiration!
By Krista Maxwell on January 26, 2018 at 10:38 am
Love your analogies in this post! And LOVE, MAMA looks adorable. Can’t wait to read it!
By Debra Shumaker on January 26, 2018 at 10:39 am
Thanks Jeanette for sharing your wisdom. Can’t wait to read LOVE, MAMA!
By Polly Renner on January 26, 2018 at 10:39 am
Wow! What a beautiful, encouraging and humbling post. Thank you Jeanette!
By lmconnors on January 26, 2018 at 10:39 am
Oh, Jeanette. How wonderful that you went to picture books themselves for inspiration! Thanks for the truly lovely post.
By Avery Elizabeth Hurt on January 26, 2018 at 10:41 am
Beautiful inspiration! Thank you
By Laurel Abell on January 26, 2018 at 10:42 am
Thank you for the inspiration, Jeanette!
By tiemdow on January 26, 2018 at 10:42 am
Thanks for a great post, Jeannette. I can’t wait to read your book!
By kirsticall on January 26, 2018 at 10:42 am
Just read Love, Mama. It was the perfect snuggle book with my boys! Your way of tapping into picture books for writing advice is just what I needed to hear today. Thank you!
By laura516 on January 26, 2018 at 10:45 am
Thank you for sharing LOVE, MAMA with your little ones! It warms my heart to hear you read it while snuggling. ❤️
By jembradl on January 26, 2018 at 3:34 pm
Jeanette, your post is entertaining and inspiring in the ways you drew from children’s literature to make your points. I am going to stop shouting at my ideas. 🙂
By Pat Miller on January 26, 2018 at 10:45 am
Jeanette, yes, those ideas germinate and grow. We must give them time. Great post and I love your debut book. Got it out of the Columbus library last week. Congrats.
By kathalsey on January 26, 2018 at 10:47 am
All of Storystorm has inspired me, but for mr yours is the loveliest post on Storystorm I have read to date. Thank you for sharing your love of kidlit with us. Now I HAVE to go out and get your book.
By Carmela McCain Simmons on January 26, 2018 at 10:49 am
Pouring my tea right now…Thanks!
By Marianne Kuzujanakis on January 26, 2018 at 10:50 am
I love this post – the writing/creativity lessons pulled from picture books, the style and the frankness and humor. Thanks for writing it, Jeanette!
By Kara Newhouse on January 26, 2018 at 10:50 am
I loved this one!
By Kristen Donohue on January 26, 2018 at 10:52 am
Thank you, Jeanette, for the inspiration of those books that we read and motivated us. They are special and often lead to special ideas to formulate other books.
By judyrubin13 on January 26, 2018 at 10:52 am
Jeanette, I love this entire post, but the ending…love, love, love! A great reminder to be kind to ourselves just as we would be kind to others. I think I’ll go pour myself another cup of coffee! Thanks for posting!
By Kim Chaffee on January 26, 2018 at 10:53 am
YES! Kindness matters, especially to ourselves. :). Thank you for that
By jembradl on January 26, 2018 at 3:35 pm
Thank you, Jeanette, for this thoughtful and inspiring post. It was just what I needed to read! I look forward to seeing your new book!
By Anne Bromley on January 26, 2018 at 10:54 am
Thanks for the pep talk, Jeanette. I’ll keep checking the front porch. LOVE, MAMA looks adorable!
By C.L. Murphy on January 26, 2018 at 10:54 am
I was recently reading about a study that concluded that drinking tea made people more creative. Thank you for sharing a cuppa this morning.
By lindaschueler on January 26, 2018 at 10:56 am
Haha – “tears of your enemies!” 🙂 Thanks for a great post!
By Jen Bagan on January 26, 2018 at 10:56 am
Absolutely lovely! The insights truly resonate!
By Margo Sorenson (@ipapaverison) on January 26, 2018 at 10:57 am
Hi Jeanette, Your post is beautiful! Every image speaks to me. Partly this is because you handle words like an instrument that sings. I have a book so don’t put me in the drawing. I just wanted you to know how much your words meant to me – seeds, friends, and star dust. Thank you!
By Dede Carlsten on January 26, 2018 at 10:57 am
❤️🐧❤️Love to you Dede!
By jembradl on January 26, 2018 at 3:36 pm
What a lovely way to inspire us! Thank you for reminding us of the quiet special way ideas grow. Your debut looks adorable!
By ammwrite3 on January 26, 2018 at 10:58 am
Jeanette congrats on your new book baby. Those ideas always pop up when you least expect them.😊
By Janie Reinart on January 26, 2018 at 10:58 am
Loved this post. Thanks.
By Stacey Corrigan on January 26, 2018 at 10:59 am
“Inspiration can be elusive. If we chase after it, we often fail to catch it.” So, so true! Thanks for a great post!
By tanyakonerman on January 26, 2018 at 10:59 am
Thanks for a beautiful post, Jeannette. Great examples and a wonderful reminder for us to get out and take a walk.
By CindyC on January 26, 2018 at 11:00 am
Jeanette, thank you for the kind, gentle and yet profound post this morning. I need to be reminded of patience as I am an impatient kinda gal. 🙂
By writeknit on January 26, 2018 at 11:02 am
Great advice! And the illustrations to your book look adorable. I can’t wait to read it! Congrats on the debut!
By karen j gruber on January 26, 2018 at 11:03 am
What an inspirational post! Thank you! I really like how you related ideas to picture books. So unique. (And positive!)
By Lee Brockman on January 26, 2018 at 11:03 am
Jeanette, thank you for such an inspiring post! I love how you connect excerpts from such wonderful PB’s to the points you want to make. It helps me to remember them.
By Mary R Kiang on January 26, 2018 at 11:04 am
Thanks for sharing to be tender and gentle with our first kernels of ideas and inspiration. Love the art of Love, Mama. Squeee.
By sherilyncook on January 26, 2018 at 11:05 am
Thank you for the ideas about ideas. 🙂
By Sharon Nix Jones on January 26, 2018 at 11:05 am
Thank you for the inspiration, Jeanette!
By Megan Taraszkiewicz on January 26, 2018 at 11:05 am
Jeanette thank Your for your words of encouragement
By Li’vee Rehfield on January 26, 2018 at 11:06 am
Oh, this makes me want to sit and read Frog and Toad all morning. Fabulous advice, and the best part? Drinking tears of your enemy. That has me thinking…
By Mary Worley on January 26, 2018 at 11:06 am
Thank you, Jeanette, for reminding me to have patience for those little seeds of inspiration!
By Krista Harrington on January 26, 2018 at 11:06 am
Well put! Thanks for the reminder.
By Janice Woods on January 26, 2018 at 11:07 am
Beautiful post!
By Sara A on January 26, 2018 at 11:07 am
Jeanette,
Lovely tidbits to consider for even a germ of an idea. Thanks for the post.
By Deborah Allmand on January 26, 2018 at 11:08 am
My ideas are like fireflies, they flash then disappear. I try to catch ’em all, but I often end up with only a couple in my jar.
By Louann Mattes Brown on January 26, 2018 at 11:08 am
I like your kind approach to waiting and trusting for ideas. Thank you for the post.
By loriannlevyholm on January 26, 2018 at 11:09 am
Love your ideas for ideas. As someone who “judges” my ideas before I’ve even written them down, I’ve been practicing putting????? next to the words. It seems to help me. Thanks!
By Kathy Mazurowski on January 26, 2018 at 11:11 am
Great idea. Give those words permission to not be GREAT or PROFOUND. Let them be a question that might lead to more thoughts. Brilliant.
By jembradl on January 26, 2018 at 3:38 pm
Terrific post, thank you! Great reminder for all.
By Karin Larson on January 26, 2018 at 11:11 am
The quoted lines from Frog and Toad made me smile. That was one of our favorites. “NOW SEEDS, START GROWING!” So silly. I love how you took that line and made our story ideas into little seeds that sprout and change until fully grown. Very nice.
By Linda Hofke on January 26, 2018 at 11:11 am
Marvelous post. Ideas do grow and we need to write down words and watch they develop in time.
By June Sengpiehl on January 26, 2018 at 11:12 am
Fun post, Jeanette!
By Lisa Robinson on January 26, 2018 at 11:14 am
I love the analogy of ideas being seeds- so true! Thanks Jeanette! Congratulations on your book!
By Ashley Pierson on January 26, 2018 at 11:15 am
How true! Thank you for the post and the reminder to give our ideas some space to grow.
By Deborah Beauchamp on January 26, 2018 at 11:15 am
Jeanette, thank you for all your fun book analogies when it comes to ideas. It reminds us that inspiration comes in many different forms and many different places.
By Sharon on January 26, 2018 at 11:15 am
Awe, what a cute book :0)
By authoraileenstewart on January 26, 2018 at 11:18 am
Sometimes the smallest speck of a thought, grows into the biggest and best of ideas. LP
By poppywrote on January 26, 2018 at 11:20 am
Thank you Jeanette for stardust 🙂
By willowwrites on January 26, 2018 at 11:21 am
I raise a cup of fresh-brewed coffee! Cheers to many more years of stardust magic! Thanks for sharing!
By Meli Glickman on January 26, 2018 at 11:21 am
“Tears of your enemies” hahahahahaha
Thank you for a charming post. Much appreciated!!
By Kimberly on January 26, 2018 at 11:21 am
I love this post! Thank you for the inspiration.
By Jessica on January 26, 2018 at 11:22 am
Just what I needed today. THANK YOU….
By Karen Eastlund on January 26, 2018 at 11:23 am
Thanks for the inspiring post, love the cover of “Love, Mama”! 🙂
By Doreen E. Lepore on January 26, 2018 at 11:23 am
I love how you mined actual picture books for idea inspiration! What a beautiful and calming post.
By Lori Dubbin on January 26, 2018 at 11:26 am
This post is so encouraging, and really helps take the pressure off. Thank you!
By christinerodenbour on January 26, 2018 at 11:26 am
Really enjoyed this post, Jeanette. Thanks for inspiring me.
By Jim Chaize on January 26, 2018 at 11:26 am
Such a great visual of scaring your ideas away. And congrats on LOVE, MAMA!
By Mary Jo Wagner on January 26, 2018 at 11:28 am
Great inspiration! Thanks for a lovely post and for reminding me to not take it all so seriously!
By swimwarrior60 on January 26, 2018 at 11:28 am
Thanks for the great post! Can’t wait to read “Love, Mama!”
By Vasilia Graboski on January 26, 2018 at 11:29 am
Thank you for the wonderful post.
By Anita on January 26, 2018 at 11:29 am
What a beautiful post! Thank you, Jeannette!
By Jane Heitman Healy on January 26, 2018 at 11:32 am
Fantastic post, Jeanette. Such a beautiful way to deliver these much needed reminders!!
By hmmmmm on January 26, 2018 at 11:32 am
I love the advice tied in with the books. Brilliant!
By jenabenton on January 26, 2018 at 11:32 am
Love the links to the picture books! And I’d love to come home and find my idea on the deck. But it’s usually just a dead mouse head or bird feathers.
By Angie on January 26, 2018 at 11:33 am
LOL!
By jembradl on January 26, 2018 at 3:40 pm
Thanks so much for your insights. 🙂
By gayleckrause on January 26, 2018 at 11:34 am
What great book examples! It makes me want to read/reread all those books. Thanks for the great post!
By Cotton Wright on January 26, 2018 at 11:36 am
I can attest to the fact that ideas come to you while shoveling the driveway. I’m currently working on a ms that started as an idea I had shoveling snow. 🙂 Also, thanks for showing us picture books can teach picture book writers valuable lessons. May we never lose sight of that!
By fspoesy on January 26, 2018 at 11:37 am
Thank you.
By sarita f on January 26, 2018 at 11:38 am
So many of these points resonate with me. THANK you! Great stuff.
By Joanne Sher on January 26, 2018 at 11:40 am
What a wonderful essay on elusive ideas. Thank you for this post and the notion that ideas are just on the porch waiting for us!
By .CAROLE CALLADINE on January 26, 2018 at 11:41 am
Thank you for your wonderful post!
By Sylvia Mary Grech on January 26, 2018 at 11:43 am
Right down all of my ideas, even the stupid ones…aha! Thank you.
By Patricia Alcaro on January 26, 2018 at 11:43 am
It is true. Ideas breed other ideas. You have to have the “bad” ideas to understand the good ideas. I like to think of them as fruit. You can pick them early and let them ripen, but they aren’t ready to eat yet. Others can seem good, but with time they turn to mush. You simply watch them and wait. Is this idea ripe yet or has this one gone bad?
By matthewlasley on January 26, 2018 at 11:45 am
Love the nuggets to drink tea with friends or tears of your enemy and that an idea may be waiting on your porch. Thanks for the inspiration.
By Kim Pfennigwerth on January 26, 2018 at 11:46 am
Love this post! I love Frog and Toad, too. 🙂
By Sara Matson on January 26, 2018 at 11:47 am
Jeannette says, “Story ideas are like seeds,” among other things. How appropriate that today, I discover my Storystorm idea in a seed catalogue !
Thanks for this post and indeed, ideas can be hiding everywhere.
By Paula Puckett on January 26, 2018 at 11:47 am
I got today’s idea while reading your post. It’s the result of very thought-provoking conversation a week of two ago, but now the story is filled with whimsey and rhyme. Who knew?
By Darlene Ivy on January 26, 2018 at 11:48 am
What a great way to find ideas in the books we read. Thanks for the post.
By Carol Nelson on January 26, 2018 at 11:49 am
Nice way to use those books to extrapolate gems of encouragement! Thanks, Jeanette!
By paulajbecker on January 26, 2018 at 11:49 am
Great post – thanks Jeanette.
By rimna on January 26, 2018 at 11:49 am
Sage advice, Jeannette!
By Kirsten W. Larson on January 26, 2018 at 11:50 am
Great post! I ‘m going to “check my porch” for some Ideas that may have been eluding me !!! And you mentioned two of my favorite authors ..Lobel and Henkes, my first graders loved Frog and Toad!!! Thank you, Thank you!!! 🙂
By seschipper on January 26, 2018 at 11:51 am
Thanks for the reminder not to scare off my ideas and the cup of tea!
By ManjuBeth on January 26, 2018 at 11:51 am
I love how you use published picture books to illustrate your analogies. So apt! Thank you for sharing!
By Pat Tanumihardja on January 26, 2018 at 11:56 am
Funny concept: ideas with a personality. I scare my ideas away all the time. I think I will take a gentler approach. Thanks, Jeanette
By Lorraine Bonzelet on January 26, 2018 at 11:57 am
This is a beautiful reminder, so encouraging. Not every idea is a ‘good’ idea, but they are all worth acknowledgment. Also… I do drink tea, beer, moonlight, and tears of my enemies. I’m glad to hear that’s cool with you, ha!
By Lindsay Maeve on January 26, 2018 at 11:58 am
Thanks for the teatime Jeanette, and I’ll keep checking the porch! “Love Mama” looks adorable. I’m a huge valentines fan and am intrigued just by the art conveying the emotion of holding onto a special heart–whether literally or symbolically. Can’t wait to read it!
By Michelle Mullen on January 26, 2018 at 11:58 am
Loved how use used lines from children’s books as your jumping off point for inspiration. Thank you for sharing.
By Stephanie G. on January 26, 2018 at 11:59 am
I’m always writing on the back of receipts. Thanks for the inspiration, Jeanette!
By Rebecca Colby on January 26, 2018 at 12:00 pm
Thank you for posting on Storystorm. Can’t wait to read Love Mama…great advice Jeanette.
By illustratorm on January 26, 2018 at 12:02 pm
Good points. Thank you!
By Maritza M. Mejia on January 26, 2018 at 12:02 pm
Thank you for the inspiration today. Great advice! Drinking coffee at this moment. Taking my little notebook with me today.
By Mary Jane Muir on January 26, 2018 at 12:03 pm
What lyrical inspiration! Thank you.
By Nancy Ferguson on January 26, 2018 at 12:06 pm
Great tips, Jeanette. Congrats on your new release–looks adorable!
By Lori Alexander on January 26, 2018 at 12:08 pm
Thank you for your encouraging words today. I have many seeds that I hope to plant this year.
By Danielle Hammelef on January 26, 2018 at 12:09 pm
While reading your post, I was reminded of the story of a man who went out into the world searching for a treasure, only to find out years later it was in his own backyard. Although story ideas can be found anywhere, the first place to look should be within ourselves and our surroundings. Thanks for sharing.
By Debra Daugherty on January 26, 2018 at 12:09 pm
Congratulations on your debut! I love to sit quietly with a cup of hot tea and just let my mind wander for ideas. Thanks for the inspiration!
By julielacombeauthor on January 26, 2018 at 12:11 pm
All such encouraging ideas! Giving my ideas time and space to grow…not shouting at them! Talking with a friend ( or my grandchildren:). It’s encouraging to be reminded that living life with intention can generate great ideas.
By Marie Sanderson on January 26, 2018 at 12:12 pm
I enjoyed your post hugely, Jeanette. Your wisdom, humor, and quotes from wonderful books were a great way to start my day. Now if my ideas are out on the porch waiting for me…
They are freezing and I’d better bring them in!
By Garnett Natasha on January 26, 2018 at 12:16 pm
Thank you for sharing
By Kassy Keppol on January 26, 2018 at 12:19 pm
Seeds, stardust and inspiration appreciation. Lovely! Thank you, Jeanette! Also, congratulations on Love, Mama!
By Suzanne LaLiberte Lewis on January 26, 2018 at 12:19 pm
Such a great post! Love how you connected so many things – because, isn’t that what we’re doing? Stephen King talks about keeping notes of ideas taped to his printer. Sometimes they stay there for awhile. Thanks, Jeanette!
By karammitchell on January 26, 2018 at 12:20 pm
What an encouraging post! I love the simple line, “They will grow.” Thanks, Jeanette!
By Leslie Santamaria on January 26, 2018 at 12:23 pm
LOVE THIS —> “Story ideas are seeds. They are scared of loud noises. They don’t like being told they aren’t good enough to write down, or they are too much like another idea. They tend to flee when criticized, and they take their friends with them.
Don’t scare off your ideas by holding out unrealistic standards. (“You must be polished and ready to publish!” or “You must be absolutely unique!”) Let your ideas grow at their own pace.”
Side note: Thank you for introducing me to Soyeon Kim’s illustration work! (You Are Stardust).
By Carrie Fannin on January 26, 2018 at 12:23 pm
Jeanette – what a delightful and thoughtful post to help nudge us forward on our quest for ideas – thank you!!
By Susan Macartney on January 26, 2018 at 12:24 pm
I am guilty of criticizing my ideas and failing to write them down. No more! Thanks Jeanette!
By Katie Frawley on January 26, 2018 at 12:26 pm
Here’s to ideas waiting on the porch!
By supermario6 on January 26, 2018 at 12:26 pm
Self doubt is the idea killer. I got an idea while reading your post and I will NOT squash it! Perhaps this one wants to grow. 🙂
By Wendy on January 26, 2018 at 12:28 pm
Loved this post! Thank you for the inspiration and encouragement!
By Joan Swanson on January 26, 2018 at 12:28 pm
Great post! I love the encouragement and the beautiful words.
By Kirsten Bock on January 26, 2018 at 12:29 pm
Excellent ideas Jeanette on how to let our stories take shape. A walk in the woods and a cup of earl grey suits me just fine. Thank you.
By Ann on January 26, 2018 at 12:29 pm
Perfection! Thank you Jeanette. Can’t wait to read LOVE, MAMA!
By stiefelchana on January 26, 2018 at 12:31 pm
Maybe there’s hope for my talking nail polishes idea! I wrote it down and then later thought, “What was I smoking?” But thanks for the encouragement to give even our “worst” ideas a chance to develop.
By deborahholtwilliams on January 26, 2018 at 12:33 pm
Way to end a blog post: Your ideas will grow while you aren’t paying attention. Love it! And your book looks adorable!
By Sherry Howard on January 26, 2018 at 12:33 pm
Jeanette, thanks for giving us the okay to not have an idea today. And Love, Mama looks delightful. What a great book cover.
By Sherri Jones Rivers on January 26, 2018 at 12:34 pm
I guess waiting for ideas is like waiting to be published, you have to wait until one day it happens.
By Rita Antoinette Borg on January 26, 2018 at 12:36 pm
Thank you for this beautiful post! And tears of your enemies–hehe 🙂
By Laura Purdie Salas on January 26, 2018 at 12:36 pm
Brewing my next cup of coffee right now! Thanks for the ideas!
By bamauthor on January 26, 2018 at 12:44 pm
Thank you for this lovely post! I loved your comment that story ideas are seeds.
By theresenagi on January 26, 2018 at 12:48 pm
Yum, tears! Very inspiring, and a bit intoxicating. 😉
By JEN Garrett on January 26, 2018 at 1:03 pm
Love this, so true! Thank you Jeanette 🙂
By Artelle Lenthall on January 26, 2018 at 1:06 pm
What an encouraging post! Thanks for sharing!
By Gayle Veitenheimer on January 26, 2018 at 1:06 pm
Thanks for sharing with us how to steep and stir up ideas. Helpful advice!
By angiecal76 on January 26, 2018 at 1:08 pm
LOVE MAMA looks beautiful, Jeanette! Thank you for your words.
By Andria Rosenbaum on January 26, 2018 at 1:20 pm
What an incredibly eloquent post with the most simple yet poignant points. Thank you, Jeanette!
By writersideup on January 26, 2018 at 1:20 pm
Love this post. Thanks for the tea and inspiration 🙂
By Kimberly Hutmacher on January 26, 2018 at 1:21 pm
Thanks for your take. I believe the seed for Henkes’ Kitten was a sentence that haunted him, which he extracted from a manuscript he dropped.
By Poupette Smith on January 26, 2018 at 1:23 pm
Love your gentle way of helping us to coax our ideas into stories. Thank you so much Jeanette!
By Darlene Koppel on January 26, 2018 at 1:25 pm
Congratulations on your new book “Love, Mama!” And, thanks for the idea nuggets you’ve sent our way!
By Amy on January 26, 2018 at 1:28 pm
Wow! What an excellent post. Thank you for encouragement.
By mamabalzam on January 26, 2018 at 1:29 pm
Thank you for the inspiration! And congrats on your new book!! 🙂
By Michelle Howell on January 26, 2018 at 1:30 pm
I’ll try to be kinder to those seeds. Thanks for all the thought you put into the lessons from those PBs.
By Jacqueline Adams on January 26, 2018 at 1:34 pm
Love this encouraging post! And congratulations on LOVE, MAMA!!
By Ann Cronin Romano on January 26, 2018 at 1:34 pm
Thanks Jeanette! I will stop trying to pay so much attention to my ideas, stop trying to will them to happen. I needed that permission.
By Colleen O Murphy on January 26, 2018 at 1:39 pm
Love the thought of finding ideas sitting on the porch after we return from the chase, exhausted. And how luscious and lovely it is to be alive and writing. Thank you!
By Jilanne Hoffmann on January 26, 2018 at 1:40 pm
Take it easy, ideas come to you in your leisure. Sip a cup of tea and soak in that thought.
Thanks for reminding to relax!
By Meena on January 26, 2018 at 1:47 pm
Simple wisdom from simple stories… I love it
Thank you, Jeanette!
By Jeanine Fondacaro Brown on January 26, 2018 at 1:51 pm
Every idea is so helpful! Thank you.
By Cindy Mims on January 26, 2018 at 1:57 pm
Oh! This is a lovely post. Just what I needed today.
By Stephanie on January 26, 2018 at 2:02 pm
I love Frog and Toad, and your inspiring post! Thanks, Jeanette!
By Robin Brett Wechsler on January 26, 2018 at 2:10 pm
You book looks lovely. Congrats on its release.
By nrompella on January 26, 2018 at 2:13 pm
Frog and Toad is lovable and timeless as is your advice. Thank you.
By Jane Hawkins on January 26, 2018 at 2:15 pm
I was never one to get inspired by a cup of coffee, but then again, a mug of hot green tea is another matter…;~)
Nice post!
Donna L Martin
By Donna L Martin on January 26, 2018 at 2:15 pm
“Your ideas will grow while you aren’t paying attention. When you come back, they may be sitting on the porch.” A loving reminder for self-kindness. Thank you for this post, Jeanette. Congratulations on LOVE, MAMA
By Tracey Brown on January 26, 2018 at 2:18 pm
To stardust magic, to inspired friends to encouraging that seed with friendly, kind words one at a time and to always having an abundance of cream with that cup of coffee. Today I will gaze beyond…and let my pen flow…
By lorisherritt on January 26, 2018 at 2:18 pm
Sometimes talking things out with someone helps get the creative juices flowing for me!
By Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer on January 26, 2018 at 2:21 pm
I appreciate you words Jeanette! I often shut an idea down before it has a chance to grow. Going to do a better job of nurturing those seeds, no matter how small. Thank you for the inspiration!
By Debbie Day (@debbiedayauthor) on January 26, 2018 at 2:28 pm
Thanks for this lovely post, Jeanette. I find picture books, titles, and illustrations endlessly inspiring. Whenever time allows, I try to spend a full morning browsing library and bookstore shelves for inspiration.
By Gabriele on January 26, 2018 at 2:30 pm
Brilliant and beautifully put. Thank you, Jeanette.
By Lindsay Hanson Metcalf on January 26, 2018 at 2:32 pm
Wow, Jeanette! When lines from children’s books can capture how to be kind and patient towards your ideas AND your process you know it’s time to trust. I really appreciate the golden nuggets you shared here. Can’t wait to read Love, Mama. What a tender cover your book has! Thank you. I wish you all the best in your future writing projects.
By M Lapointe Malchik (@imartytweet) on January 26, 2018 at 2:33 pm
Great advice to think of our ideas as seeds and let them grow at their own pace as they take root. I’ll have to remind myself not to rush the growth process. Thanks Jeanette!
By Jean Richardson on January 26, 2018 at 2:33 pm
Thank you for your inspiration. I really enjoyed your post. My biggest take-away was “Let your ideas grow at their own pace. Treat them all as worthy of being jotted…”
I’m still a newb at this, but I definitely find myself ignoring the incomplete thoughts and chasing the more fully formed ones. Your post helps encourage us to give all ideas opportunity. Thanks again!
By beccalingley on January 26, 2018 at 2:36 pm
Beautiful post, Jeanette. Congratulations on Love, Mama!
By Judy Bryan on January 26, 2018 at 2:39 pm
Thanks for the advice and inspiration, Jeanette!
By Paulette Sharkey on January 26, 2018 at 2:43 pm
Thanks Jeanette. Letting ideas flow is a great take-away. I used to live in RI and miss the beauty there. But there’s beauty in Washington too.
By barbarakeevilparker on January 26, 2018 at 2:49 pm
I LOVE this post. It’s such a good reminder to “yes and…” ideas so we can be more creative and have fun (something I learned long ago in an improv class but never applied to writing).
By Margaret Greanias on January 26, 2018 at 2:50 pm
Thanks for the inspiring post, Jeanette! It was the pep talk I needed!
By pathaap on January 26, 2018 at 2:51 pm
Thank you, Jeanette! It is so true – I often scare away my ideas.
By triciacandy on January 26, 2018 at 2:53 pm
Maybe I’ll make some tea and sit on the porch. 😉
By Candy on January 26, 2018 at 2:53 pm
Jeanette, thank you for this. The seed analogy is helpful. And “Frog and Toad” always make things clearer. Your book looks wonderful.
By tiffanydickinson on January 26, 2018 at 2:58 pm
Thank you Jeanette – great advice! Thank you for sharing.
By mlflannigan on January 26, 2018 at 3:15 pm
Great advice Jeanette – thank you!
By Lynn Alpert on January 26, 2018 at 3:15 pm
Great post, Jeanette. I’ll have to take more walks in the woods or just in my own neighborhood. I’ll have to keep my eyes and ears open for more ideas, or maybe one will be waiting on my front porch when I get back.
By betlw on January 26, 2018 at 3:21 pm
Caffeine and pay attention to the subtleties of life – good advice! Thanks, Jeanette!
By Mary York on January 26, 2018 at 3:22 pm
I’m a tea drinker too and YES books are always filled with inspiration. Thanks for your post!
By Alice Carty Fulgione on January 26, 2018 at 3:23 pm
When the sun rises I will hold my hand up to it. Thanks for the inspiration, Jeanette. And I just love the Frog and Toad example.
By Kaye Baillie on January 26, 2018 at 3:24 pm
Thank you for your post today! I must read “You are Stardust.” I’m currently working on a biography of an astronomer, so you have helped me find my voice in mentioning this title. Thank you again!
By Lu Fiskin-Ross on January 26, 2018 at 3:26 pm
Thank you for sharing your wisdom from picture books. Perfect!
By rosecappelli on January 26, 2018 at 3:32 pm
Thank you for your inspirational post. Only a few more days to go.
By Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator on January 26, 2018 at 3:33 pm
Great post, thanks!
By maryshorgan on January 26, 2018 at 3:34 pm
Thanks for the post Jeanette!
By Janet AlJunaidi on January 26, 2018 at 3:41 pm
Thanks for your “stardust magic!” I’m inspired.
By Linda Chavez on January 26, 2018 at 3:43 pm
Thank you to you and the others for your insight. I often turn away ideas, without even trying for the reasons you stated. Since this adventure began, I have been making notes, copying videos that spark an idea, finding ways to revamp my manuscripts. I have almost filled my calendar with ideas. It’s been exciting. The most I’ve ever done. Thank you.
By Marge Gower on January 26, 2018 at 3:43 pm
Thank you everyone for your encouraging words, nuggets of writing wisdom & funny comments. I wish I could respond to every one of you individually! I’m at a conference right now & stealing a couple of minutes to check in. I’m glad my post resonated with so many of you! (Dead mice on the porch aside 😂)
By jembradl on January 26, 2018 at 3:44 pm
I love your post! Your word images are beautiful and inspiring. I also LOVE Frog and Toad!
By Pamela Harrison on January 26, 2018 at 3:45 pm
Thanks for your poignant thoughts and validation! As a writer, we can feel small and vulnerable, just like your analogy. But today, I choose to be a mustard seed, growing and nourishing and producing great craft!
Congrats on Love, Mama!
By Kate Carroll on January 26, 2018 at 3:58 pm
This was such a beautifully written post and so very inspiring. Thank you for this. Can’t wait to read Love Momma!
By Katie Carberry on January 26, 2018 at 4:00 pm
I’ll take my ideas with a cup of tea :). Looking forward to reading your book. The cover is very sweet! Congrats, Jeanette!
By mariagianferrari on January 26, 2018 at 4:04 pm
Those are some of my favorite books right there! I grew up on Frog & Toad and other Lobel books. I need to re-read them. My girls want me to take them ice skating this evening. Maybe a book idea will come from that!
By Rebekah Lowell on January 26, 2018 at 4:11 pm
Thank you for sharing! This is the first dissertation I’ve ever read using only picture books as primary sources. 🙂
By Stephan Stuecklin on January 26, 2018 at 4:12 pm
Congrats on LOVE, MAMA! Can’t wait to read it.
By Susan Johnston on January 26, 2018 at 4:15 pm
Loved your unique take on finding inspirations, Jeanette! Thanks for a thought-provoking post.
By Sandy Perlic on January 26, 2018 at 4:15 pm
pure gold! thank you
By Shaye Wardrop on January 26, 2018 at 4:16 pm
Practically perfect in every way–thanks!
By Cathy C. Hall on January 26, 2018 at 4:22 pm
BRAVO! Thank you for sharing your stardust!
By Katherine on January 26, 2018 at 4:24 pm
Yes to caffeine and great books! Thank you for this great advice on how not to scare away our idea seeds. And a giant congrats on LOVE, MAMA. What a gorgeous cover!
By Gabi Snyder on January 26, 2018 at 4:25 pm
I always look for my amazon packages on the front porch, why didn’t I think to look for my ideas there?
By Michele Helsel on January 26, 2018 at 4:27 pm
I love thinking of my stories as little seeds that need to sprout. Thanks for the pep talk.
By Julie Rand on January 26, 2018 at 4:36 pm
I love how you pulled such inspirational concepts from such wonderful picture books. I’ll have to be a lot more observant as I read! I also tend to judge my ideas as you say toward the end of the post. Each idea has a life of its own and as such is valuable. Thanks! Susan Swan
By writingcygnet on January 26, 2018 at 4:37 pm
Lovely and freeing. Thanks for your thoughts!
By Bethany Roberts on January 26, 2018 at 4:37 pm
Cheers to writing with a cup of tea. Thank you for the words of encouragement, Jeanette.
Suzy Leopold
By Prairie Garden Girl on January 26, 2018 at 4:50 pm
It’s amazing the ideas that come to us. Thanks for sharing, Jeanette.
By Lynn on January 26, 2018 at 4:50 pm
Love that Frog and Toad showed up for this! And excited to read some of the newer titles, mentioned too. Congrats on LOVE, MAMA!
By Angela Kunkel 📚 (@rahrahread) on January 26, 2018 at 5:07 pm
Very sweet. Thank you for the post. 😊
By Cortney Benvenuto on January 26, 2018 at 5:12 pm
I love your stardust analogy. Lovely.
By Angie Isaacs on January 26, 2018 at 5:17 pm
Like Toad, I need to stop yelling at my ideas, it definitely scares them off. Love this post so much, thank you!!
By Carolyn Kraft on January 26, 2018 at 5:19 pm
Are you saying I have to have patience? I am not so good at that but I will try to stop scaring my ideas away.
By Celeste on January 26, 2018 at 5:23 pm
You are stardust… so simple and so profound!
By Carrie Glicksteen on January 26, 2018 at 5:25 pm
I love the analogy and your book selections. Thanks so much for your contribution!
By Tracy potash on January 26, 2018 at 5:28 pm
Waiting here, iPad in hand, with a glass of Chardonnay, waiting for Idea’s knock on the door.
By Stephen S. Martin on January 26, 2018 at 5:32 pm
Good tips. Plus I like thinking that I am leftover stardust. Maybe it’s stardust scattered all over the floor. Mom calls it “dog hair.”
Love and licks,
Cupcake
By Genevieve Petrillo on January 26, 2018 at 5:33 pm
Thank you for sharing!
By Shelley on January 26, 2018 at 5:33 pm
Yes, ideas usually come to me when I’m not expecting them. Thank you for your post!
By Tina Cho on January 26, 2018 at 5:37 pm
“Your ideas will grow while you aren’t paying attention.” Thank you, Jeanette, for reminding us to give ourselves a break. Time away doing other things are often the times of discovery. Congrats on your new book! I look forward to reading it.
By chardixon47 on January 26, 2018 at 5:45 pm
Thanks Jeanette for a fabulous post! I grew up in RI so I saw a great article about your new book when my mom sent it to me here in Rochester! Small world!
Congratulations and all the best with LOVE MAMA.
By Mary Warth on January 26, 2018 at 5:51 pm
“Tap into that stardust magic.” Lovely image! Thank you!
By Sue on January 26, 2018 at 5:53 pm
Well done Jeanette. I feel sparkly and twinkly and ready to politely ask the moon for a little sip.
By Lauri Meyers on January 26, 2018 at 5:59 pm
Thanks Jeanette,
Your posting made me feel better.
Thanks for the insite and the comfort.
Time for a glass of wine. 🙂
By Peg e. Monley on January 26, 2018 at 6:00 pm
Thank you for the inspirational post Jeanette! 🙂
By heidikyates on January 26, 2018 at 6:04 pm
Very nice post Jeanette! As a big tea drinker, I’m feeling hopeful. Thanks!
By Lindsey McDivitt on January 26, 2018 at 6:06 pm
Great advice Jeanette! And I, too, love TWO FRIENDS. What a gorgeous book.
By Elizabeth Tracy on January 26, 2018 at 6:14 pm
Thank you for the reminder to not take ourselves too seriously! Seems simple but sometimes hard to remember!
By Charlotte Offsay on January 26, 2018 at 6:14 pm
Amazing post! Such an inspiration!
By Karen Turner on January 26, 2018 at 6:19 pm
Thank you, Jeanette! All of the StoryStorm posts have been wonderful, but this may be my favorite. I love the reminder not to overthink things because we’re just stardust and that wherever we are in our process, that’s okay!
By annabrookswriter on January 26, 2018 at 6:25 pm
Trying to grow a story right now – so off to do the laundry. Thanks for a lovely post reminding us where the magic is.
By @luvthatword on January 26, 2018 at 6:35 pm
Thanks for the lovely post, and the cup of tea, Jeannette! I love thinking of ideas as little seeds that just need a little space and love to grow.
By Sarah Momo Romero on January 26, 2018 at 6:39 pm
Lovely post! I very much appreciate the reminder to not scare the ideas seeds away. Thank you Jeannette!
By Cynthia Harmony (@cynthia_harmony) on January 26, 2018 at 6:44 pm
Great post! Thank you for helping us nurture our seeds.
By suzannepoulterharris on January 26, 2018 at 6:50 pm
Stardust. Thanks for reminding us the stars are part of us.
By Rosalind Malin on January 26, 2018 at 7:09 pm
What an info-packed, motivating, and encouraging post. Thanks!
By Dawn Prochovnic on January 26, 2018 at 7:17 pm
Great post, Jeanette!! I loved when you said, “Inspiration can be elusive. If we chase after it, we often fail to catch it.” And just when you least expect it… BANG…there it is in all its splendor waiting for you to unwrap it
By saputnam on January 26, 2018 at 7:19 pm
Encouraging!
By Colleen Dabney on January 26, 2018 at 7:25 pm
Great examples – I especially like the one about sharing ideas with friends. Writing buddies are the best.
By claireannette1 on January 26, 2018 at 7:29 pm
Thanks for the encouragement Jeannette to write things down and keep trying to make that idea into a manuscript or to suggest something new from that idea.
By Sheri Radovich on January 26, 2018 at 7:32 pm
Great advice, Jeanette! Happy writing!
By Carol Gordon Ekster on January 26, 2018 at 7:32 pm
Nice post, Jeanette! I need to stop chasing and stop judging! Thanks for that reminder!
By Tracy Hora on January 26, 2018 at 7:34 pm
Can’t wait to meet an idea on my porch 👌
By Shanah salter on January 26, 2018 at 7:35 pm
Ideas are seeds-Love it! I’m going to be patient and let them grow. Thank you!
By Jennifer Hunt on January 26, 2018 at 7:35 pm
I loved your tie-in to the PB’s! Thanks for the inspiration and encouragement.
By Paula Young on January 26, 2018 at 7:40 pm
What a delightful post. It made me smile and relax. And made it all sound like a fun process. It’s easy to get too serious about this idea finding – about creating in general. Brilliant post
By Lea Lyon on January 26, 2018 at 7:40 pm
That was fun to read. The book references were already inspirational in themselves.
By Mirka Hokkanen on January 26, 2018 at 7:45 pm
I’m off to check the front porch.
By LeeAnn Rizzuti on January 26, 2018 at 7:48 pm
Your words of encouragement are much appreciated!
LOVE, MAMA cover is adorable. Look forward to hearing it!
By Lori Mozdzierz on January 26, 2018 at 7:49 pm
Great post. I have learned to write down any old idea. You just never know.
By Mary Ann Cortez on January 26, 2018 at 8:01 pm
Thank you for sharing!
By Brenda Huante on January 26, 2018 at 8:05 pm
Love your post! So true – and such good advice. Just sitting down now with my tea and a few books for inspiration!
By bevbaird on January 26, 2018 at 8:06 pm
Oh, wow, this post made me (happy) cry! Very important reminders.
By storyfairy on January 26, 2018 at 8:09 pm
Thanks for the reminders! I love the Frog and Toad quote and your post brought me back to why I’m doing this. Now sitting down for coffee and a few good books- I look forward to reading yours!
By Lisa Billa on January 26, 2018 at 8:14 pm
Thank you for all of the lovely quotes! And for sharing your ideas and thoughts!
Jenna Feldman
By moviemommie on January 26, 2018 at 8:14 pm
I TRULY ADORED having tea with you, Jeanette, Frog and Toad, and all the others! I LOVE how you crafted this post–so warm and so inviting! And I LOVE the inspiration from the kind of books we children’s authors are trying to write! TRUE WISDOM!!!! The tea was LOVERLY, but I think I will go with “tears of [my] enemies” next time, per your suggestion. 🙂
By Natalie Lynn Tanner on January 26, 2018 at 8:17 pm
You had me at Frog and Toad…❤️
By Laura rackham on January 26, 2018 at 8:18 pm
Excellent post Jeanette, thanks for the inspiration.
By jeanjames926 on January 26, 2018 at 8:21 pm
Books, coffee and a touch of chocolate? Then, I’m ready for the ideas to pour in…or not. They’ll come when they’re ready. Thanks for the reminder!
By Danielle Dufayet on January 26, 2018 at 8:37 pm
Ahh, yes, let’s not scare away our ideas but patiently let them grow — thanks, Jeanette!
By Val McCammon on January 26, 2018 at 8:37 pm
Thanks for this wonderful post, Jeanette! Great analogies to some great books! 🙂
By Martin Segal on January 26, 2018 at 8:38 pm
I knew there had to be a connection between ideas and caffeine! 🙂 Thanks for an inspiring post.
By Tina Barbour on January 26, 2018 at 8:51 pm
Thank you so much for these thoughts, Jeanette. Great things to remember. I may need to re-read this post several times.
By Beth Stilborn on January 26, 2018 at 8:53 pm
This was a good one to read late in the month, when it feels like my burst of ideas is starting to peter out. Thank you for reminding me that sometimes ideas come when you don’t expect them!
By Teresa Traver on January 26, 2018 at 8:56 pm
Thanks so much. Nice to take a deep breath and try not to frighten the ideas bubbling just out of reach. Maybe if I offer them a cup of Barry’s Irish Breakfast tea . . . Congratulations on Love Mama!
By Nancy Riley on January 26, 2018 at 8:59 pm
Plant the seeds and they will grow. Thank you for reminding me just to write and write.
By Latasha Vernon on January 26, 2018 at 9:00 pm
Your post had a lyrical quality making me want to read your book. Good advice, too!
Sent from my iPhone
By Rita K. on January 26, 2018 at 9:08 pm
Thank you for writing this inspirational post, Jeanette.
By Arin Wensley on January 26, 2018 at 9:09 pm
Reading great books is a great way to inspire ideas. Love this post.
By F. G. M. Kalavritinos on January 26, 2018 at 9:12 pm
Thanks Jeanette for so much inspiration! I always find ideas in the simpliest places as well…I am curious however about a part of your bio that states that you were an artist in residence for a traveling art museum on a train….I’d love to hear this story!!!
By anitajjones on January 26, 2018 at 9:26 pm
Thank you for reminding us that ideas are ideas and to not judge them. Let them grow.
By Cassie Bentley on January 26, 2018 at 9:29 pm
Love the references to some great stories!
By Amy Harding on January 26, 2018 at 9:32 pm
There’s no place like a good book!
By rindabeach on January 26, 2018 at 9:35 pm
Thanks for you encouragement to relax and let the idea seeds come at their own pace and then to treat them with lots of TLC so they blossom into lovely stories. Happy storming! 🙂
By Rene` Diane Aube on January 26, 2018 at 9:42 pm
Thank you for all your inspiration!!
By RebeccaTheWriter on January 26, 2018 at 9:44 pm
Love the sentiment……my best ideas come in the wee hours of the morning when I don’t want to get up. Hey, now i know why I don’t want to get up!
By Lizzie Maxwell on January 26, 2018 at 9:54 pm
Thanks Jeanette for the inspiring post!
By Marlene Rohr on January 26, 2018 at 10:01 pm
Ideas as seeds, love this!
By laurelwoodkeeper on January 26, 2018 at 10:02 pm
This is excellent, thank you. I really do need to stop worrying about whether my ideas are “good enough” and just get to the work (and fun!) of writing them into stories 🙂
By Kathy Manchip on January 26, 2018 at 10:03 pm
Thanks for this hopeful post.
By shirley301 on January 26, 2018 at 10:07 pm
Enjoyed your post. Yes books come from books!
By Jenifer McNamara on January 26, 2018 at 10:18 pm
This book looks so sweet. My son calls me “Mama,” so I’ll be sure to check out this book.
By Dina Hodara-Bono on January 26, 2018 at 10:18 pm
This beautiful post made me smile and made me think. And I loved the quotations from those lovely pictures books. Thank you. I will try to be open to ideas rather than force them.
By Carleen M. Tjader on January 26, 2018 at 10:27 pm
What a lovely post – entertaining, fresh and full of truth!
By Ann Martin on January 26, 2018 at 10:32 pm
Thanks for permission to let the ideas flow. Happy to share your sweet story and the Publishers Weekly review. Congratulations!
By Pam Miller on January 26, 2018 at 10:56 pm
Thanks Jeanette! What a great post with great book quotes! Your experience as an artist-in-residence at a museum on a train sounds fascinating! There’s got to be a story in that!
By Amanda Sincavage on January 26, 2018 at 10:57 pm
Thanks for a great post, Jeanette!! Many congratulations on Love, Mama!
By Melissa Stoller on January 26, 2018 at 11:09 pm
Your book looks so very sweet 🙂
By Megan Whitaker on January 26, 2018 at 11:14 pm
What a fabulous post Jeanette! I love the way you tied in all of the literary examples!! 🙂 Everything you said resonated with me and my experience as a writer!
By Lindsay Bonilla (@LindsayBonilla) on January 26, 2018 at 11:18 pm
Beautiful post, thank you!
By wpdrey on January 26, 2018 at 11:25 pm
Thanks for a great post.
By Kathy j brown on January 26, 2018 at 11:25 pm
Thanks for sharing!
By Peter on January 26, 2018 at 11:29 pm
Congratulations on your debut picture book, Jeanette! I’m in awe that you are both the illustrator and the author. Now that’s talent!
By Kathy Doherty on January 26, 2018 at 11:50 pm
Love the books used to relay such an inspirational message about writing. Ideas have to flow and can’t be forced.
By Keila Dawson on January 26, 2018 at 11:53 pm
Lots of ideas popped into my head as I flew cross-country today. Maybe the plane was bombarded by stardust! Thanks for a great post, Jeanette, and congrats on your debut book!
By Claire Wrenn Bobrow on January 26, 2018 at 11:55 pm
“Tears of your enemies…” I need to remember that one. I love it. Thanks for the great post.
By Cheryl Malandrinos on January 26, 2018 at 11:58 pm
Thanks for the great advice! I especially like the reminder not to shout at my seeds like Toad–although it may have hit too close to home. LOVE, MAMA looks adorable–can’t wait to read it. I also need to check out TWO FRIENDS.
By Kristen Browning on January 27, 2018 at 12:01 am
Coffee + books= Happiness
By Brittanny Handiboe on January 27, 2018 at 12:07 am
What a gorgeous and inspiring article. Just beautiful. And how adorable is that kitten PB. Thank you.
By Evelyn Bookless on January 27, 2018 at 12:08 am
I agree, ideas seem to attack when you least expect them!
Thank you for this post!
By megcason1 on January 27, 2018 at 12:16 am
Books and tea; books and chocolate…. books and coffee or anything (as long as the first ingredient is books!) I really love how toad tries to wake up his seeds, too.
By sue heavenrich on January 27, 2018 at 12:26 am
Thank you for sharing your insights with us!
By denitajohnson on January 27, 2018 at 12:38 am
Excellent picture book examples for an inspiring post. Thank you
By Aimee on January 27, 2018 at 12:40 am
What a lovely post! I love the seed analogy. 🙂
By Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor) on January 27, 2018 at 12:46 am
Thanks for some great reminders about finding inspiration, Jeanette. Congratulations on Love, Mama–it looks like a wonderful PB. I’m looking forward to reading it!
By Lucretia Schafroth on January 27, 2018 at 12:49 am
Excuse me while I fix myself a cup of tea!
By Christine M Irvin on January 27, 2018 at 1:14 am
thanks for the inspiration: Your ideas will grow while you aren’t paying attention. Thanks for reminding me that they will be there.
By Christine Pinto on January 27, 2018 at 1:22 am
I started the practice of writing down any ideas that came to me a few years ago. It was hard, at first, to quiet the inner critic who told me to not bother writing down some ideas that might not be very good. But now I have learned that even the lamest of ideas might have even a tiny kernel that could be used in a story. Thanks for the reminder! And LOVE, MAMA is a sweet book! I just read it last week.
By Heather Pierce Stigall on January 27, 2018 at 1:32 am
Here’s to a garden of ideas!
By Sandy on January 27, 2018 at 1:54 am
This was lovely, Jeanette. A nice reminder to not stress out and just let the ideas be what they are.
By David McMullin on January 27, 2018 at 2:05 am
What an inspired post! Thanks, Jeanette.
By Joana Pastro on January 27, 2018 at 2:38 am
“Books and caffeine are the best combination.” I like how you think!
By Laurie L Young on January 27, 2018 at 2:55 am
Good idea to keep from being critical of the seedling ideas that arise–one may flower someday when you least expect it
By 8catpaws on January 27, 2018 at 4:20 am
Your analogies are spot on in this post. I’m excited to read LOVE, MAMA!
By Sarah Noble on January 27, 2018 at 4:49 am
An author AND an apprentice pastry chef! Writing and baking – my two passions! Great advice, great post! Thanks!
By Krissy Papadakis on January 27, 2018 at 5:31 am
What a lovely post – thank you for sharing Jeanette!
By Nat Keller on January 27, 2018 at 7:45 am
Thanks for reminding me that sometimes the ideas have to grow on their own time. Yelling will not help.
By Rick Starkey on January 27, 2018 at 7:47 am
This post was just what I needed today. Thanks for sharing your insights.
By mathbookmagic on January 27, 2018 at 8:14 am
I love the analogy that ideas are like seeds and we need to plant them and let them grow.
By sharongiltrow on January 27, 2018 at 8:43 am
Thank you for the inspiration! They are just seeds we must nurture and let grow at their pace!
By Kelly Vavala on January 27, 2018 at 9:05 am
This is quite a creative post! I love how you found these statements and quotes in various books and tied them together to create your post about generating ideas. So clever and inspiring.
By Cathy Breisacher on January 27, 2018 at 9:51 am
Thank you for you post and insight!
By Susan Schade on January 27, 2018 at 9:59 am
I love the thought of a bowl of milk (ideas) sitting on the porch waiting for us.
By Carolyn Rohrbaugh on January 27, 2018 at 10:02 am
Thank you, Jeanette, for this inspirational post straight from those who have gone before us generating ideas and bringing them to life. So encouraging!
By Debbie Austin on January 27, 2018 at 10:12 am
Thanks for your suggestions about letting our ideas grow. Yes sometimes they might take years to grow. Looking forward to reading your book.
By Kathy Cornell Berman on January 27, 2018 at 10:12 am
Thanks for the reminder to go and do something else and often ideas come. That’s so true!
By Ink Bottle Studio on January 27, 2018 at 10:30 am
Like your references to a variety of books. Gave me a few new ones to check out.
By marty on January 27, 2018 at 10:42 am
Great post! Can’t wait to read Love Mama. Looks perfect for a Valentine’s Day story time.
By Loralee Petersen on January 27, 2018 at 10:56 am
Your post is a great reminder to ignore our inner critic and let ideas grow like seeds. Thanks, Jeanette.
By MD Knabb on January 27, 2018 at 11:02 am
Ahhhhh….caffeine and writing..two of my favorite things! Great (and creative) examples to help us find those elusive ideas! Thanks!
By michelle gajda on January 27, 2018 at 11:06 am
This is such a heartfelt, relaxing, post. Thank you, Jeanette. Tea time!
By mona861 on January 27, 2018 at 11:08 am
Oh my gosh. I LOVE this post and love your final reminder. Also- I just happened to finally read Love, Mama at the library earlier this week. So sweet!
By Ryan Roberts on January 27, 2018 at 11:16 am
Lovely post with the theme of stardust woven through–thanks for the magic & inspiration this morning!
By yangmommy on January 27, 2018 at 11:23 am
I enjoyed your post. I’m a fan of Kevin Henkes, and his Kitten’s First Full Moon too. Congrats to you for Love, Mama publication!
By kmajor2013 on January 27, 2018 at 11:45 am
So many ideas, so little time! Can’t wait to read Love, Mama!
By Juliana Lee on January 27, 2018 at 11:46 am
This post was wonderful – it really inspired me today! I’m going to start leaving my porch light on… 🙂
By wyszguy on January 27, 2018 at 12:00 pm
WOW. Thanks for the wonderful reminder.
By Sally Spratt 🎉🍾🎇 (@SallySpratt) on January 27, 2018 at 12:04 pm
What a lovely and well researched post! Can’t wait to read Love, Mama
By Connie Colon on January 27, 2018 at 12:26 pm
Beautifully written, thank you!
By Nadine Gamble on January 27, 2018 at 12:34 pm
Love this advice. Wonderful perspective. Thank you!
By Jennifer Phillips on January 27, 2018 at 12:36 pm
Jeanette, what a beautifully written and validating piece! I’m happy to say I read it by my fire, with an Earl Grey in hand, and an empty seat beside me where I imagined we finally got got to have a chat in person!
By aidantalkin on January 27, 2018 at 12:54 pm
Thank you for sharing. You’re a star! No literally…
By Carolyn Currier on January 27, 2018 at 12:54 pm
Thanks for the inspiration, Jeanette! And I love Love, Mama.
By Brenda Maier on January 27, 2018 at 12:58 pm
One of the best posts of the month. Thank you for taking the time to put it all together.
I have a few seeds that I need to let grow.
Thanks again!
By Maria Bostian on January 27, 2018 at 1:01 pm
Great post! I’ve written so many ideas that at the moment are a “So what?” But “So What?” is also a “Who knows?” That idea could become a PB, MG, poem or a magazine story/article.
By Barbara Senenman on January 27, 2018 at 1:11 pm
Love the we are all stardust take on this!
By 58chilihed13 on January 27, 2018 at 1:36 pm
I like the stardust magic thought. Thanks for the advice!
By KASteed on January 27, 2018 at 2:06 pm
Thanks for those great mentor texts and for your energizing ideas!
By mginsberg10 on January 27, 2018 at 2:15 pm
Need to remember not to censor ideas before they have a chance to be nurtured. Thanks for the reminder.
By Janet Halfmann on January 27, 2018 at 2:28 pm
This is one of my favorite posts ever! I plan to reread it for reminders to stop censoring ideas and to let seeds grow. Thanks so much, Jeanette! I’m looking forward to reading Love, Mama.
By donnacangelosi on January 27, 2018 at 2:44 pm
I love the gardening analogy. That will stick with me.
By susanzonca on January 27, 2018 at 3:02 pm
I want to have tea with you and thanks for the beautiful words. I look forward to reading Love, Mama. God bless…
By aliciaminor on January 27, 2018 at 3:26 pm
Loved your kid-lit focused post…now must carry around empty jar to catch tears of my enemies and buy much larger purse. Thanks!
No really, I loved that the proof is in the puddin’…how and what to write can be found and lost and found again in literature and life.
By Aubri Mosness on January 27, 2018 at 3:34 pm
Great advice for keeping it real – and if you really love an idea, you should definitely see where you can take it
By Nicole M Strangman on January 27, 2018 at 3:37 pm
I always need a reminder to hush my internal editor up. Thanks for your words of advice and best of luck with Love, Mama.
By Angela De Groot on January 27, 2018 at 3:45 pm
Thank you for the post and introducing me to your book Love Mama and to two of your favorite reads -I hadn’t seen those before. 🙂
By Brenda Harris on January 27, 2018 at 3:48 pm
I so related to this post! I have often described my new PB drafts as infants — they need to be nurtured and feed and snuggled before you send them out into the world. Thanks for sharing!
By Kelly on January 27, 2018 at 4:04 pm
Thanks for all the wisdom in this post, Jeanette!
By Melanie Ellsworth on January 27, 2018 at 4:08 pm
Story ideas are seeds, save, savor, plant and watch them grow. The analogy is so wise. Thank you!
By mcdonaldrae on January 27, 2018 at 4:26 pm
Thanks for reminding me to treat my ideas tenderly. I know how important it is, bit I so often try to hurry them along. This was a beautiful and inspiring post!
By Jennifer G Prevost on January 27, 2018 at 5:02 pm
Thank you for the advice. Much appreciated.
By DaNeil Olson on January 27, 2018 at 5:15 pm
Great post. This was really helpful. Thank you.
By Anna Smith on January 27, 2018 at 5:47 pm
Caffeine and books, what a great combination, especially if the caffeine is from chocolate! Thanks for the encouraging post.
By Darcee Freier on January 27, 2018 at 8:17 pm
My daughter just read Kitten’s First Full Moon to me this week. It’s such a sweet idea.
By Leah on January 27, 2018 at 8:23 pm
Oh my goodness, I love all the cosmic imagery. Feeling inspired! Thank you!
By Karen LaSalvia on January 27, 2018 at 8:43 pm
Loved your post, Jeanette. It’s so true…we need to share our ideas – I have several in person critique groups and love to get together over a cup of hot chocolate…brainstorming with friends is the best! And may I say that I LOVE our head-shot photo…you are glowing!
By viviankirkfield on January 27, 2018 at 8:46 pm
Thank you for the reminder to live, enjoy, not take myself too seriously, and ideas will come when i’m least looking for them…
By Author Yvona Fast on January 27, 2018 at 9:03 pm
Ideas as seeds resonates so strongly with me! Thank you for the inspiration.
By Andrea Mack on January 27, 2018 at 9:08 pm
Thanks for the reminder that ideas are delicate things that don’t like criticism!
By denarose on January 27, 2018 at 9:08 pm
Thank you for your inspiration. Sometimes I get in the mindset where I don’t think I have any good ideas. Thanks for reminding me not to judge ideas…write them down.
By slowsly on January 27, 2018 at 9:19 pm
I enjoyed reading your post. Thank you!
By Sandi Lawson on January 27, 2018 at 9:20 pm
Thank you for your insight.
By Brenda Bokenyi on January 27, 2018 at 9:56 pm
Jeanette Bradley thanks for photons streaming through your fingers. Butterfly your lashes and dance with rainbows. Thank you
By kiwijenny on January 27, 2018 at 10:01 pm
I thought stardust came in every cup of tea–especially licorice (one of my favorite brainstorming teas. Thank you for sharing protons!
By Sherry Alexander on January 27, 2018 at 10:09 pm
Thank you for this post! A good reminder not to judge our ideas.
By Anne Appert on January 27, 2018 at 10:20 pm
Jeanette, I’m planting my seeds in a big milk bowl, sprinkling them with magic stardust, and then sitting on my front with a huge cup of coffee while soaking up inspiration from Momma Nature!❤️
Fabulous, inspiring post💫🌟
Thank you!
By Licy Staugler on January 27, 2018 at 10:25 pm
Jeanette, I am planting my seeds in a big milk bowl, sprinkling them with stardust, sitting them on the front porch, while drinking a huge cup of coffee soaking up Momma Nature!
Thank you for the inspiring post!💫🌟
By Lucy Staugler on January 27, 2018 at 10:31 pm
Great post – love the references to such wonderful books, and the inspiration to let go of judgement.
By Cinzia V. on January 27, 2018 at 10:35 pm
How very true that we are s lucky to be alive and able to brainstorm story ideas!
By Tasha Hilderman on January 27, 2018 at 10:46 pm
What a lovely post. Thank you! Stardust is such a wonderful image–and planting seeds–all kinds of magic all around.
By susanbruck on January 27, 2018 at 10:53 pm
Truly sweet post. Thank you.
By wendymyersart on January 27, 2018 at 11:33 pm
Jeanette, your comment about ideas being like seeds and the fact is we do have to cultivate them, nurture them so they grow into wonderful stories to share with others. Nice books.
By Cheryl T. on January 28, 2018 at 12:36 am
Great post Jeanette!
By Emily Wayne (@emilywayneart) on January 28, 2018 at 12:48 am
Jeanette,
“Don’t scare off your ideas by holding out unrealistic standards. (“You must be polished and ready to publish!” or “You must be absolutely unique!”) Let your ideas grow at their own pace.”
These words are EXACTLY what I needed to hear. Thank you X a million. ❤️
By Monica Stoltzfus on January 28, 2018 at 12:52 am
Thanks Jeanette. Lovely post – will keeping checking the porch 😉
By Teresa Daffern on January 28, 2018 at 2:28 am
Thank you, Jeanette! I’ve heard great things about Love, Mama. Can’t wait to read it.
By Carrie Tillotson on January 28, 2018 at 2:28 am
Brilliant! Everything we need to know, we can learn from a picture book.
By Heather Kinser on January 28, 2018 at 3:20 am
Thank you for sharing!
By ingridboydston on January 28, 2018 at 3:38 am
Drinking the tears of your enemies, so funny. Seriously though what I loved and connected with is the concept that an idea doesn’t need to be big, fully formed or even feel worthy to write down. No matter how small it is it could still be the start of something. Thank you for the reminder.
By Zoe Alicia Gaetjens on January 28, 2018 at 5:01 am
Fantastic post, and I can’t wait to read your book – it sounds (and looks) delightful.
By kelliejanebyrnes on January 28, 2018 at 7:24 am
What smart advice you’ve harvested from these lovely stories for us. Thank you.
By Alexandra Hinrichs on January 28, 2018 at 8:10 am
Yes, ideas take time. We must be patient and let them grow. Thanks.
By Zoraida on January 28, 2018 at 8:29 am
Caffeine is a great stimulator
By Rebecca Sheraton on January 28, 2018 at 8:51 am
I like the suggestion to think of any tiny bit of inspiration as a worthy beginning of an idea. Thanks for the inspiration today!
By Kaitlin Hedberg on January 28, 2018 at 9:06 am
Thanks for sharing the literary insights into ideas and how they grow.
By ptnozell on January 28, 2018 at 10:21 am
Love this post, Jeanette! Thank you!
By Elizabeth Brown on January 28, 2018 at 10:37 am
Oh, this was fun! Thanks for the tips and the Storytime! 🙂
By Becky Scharnhorst on January 28, 2018 at 11:06 am
Lovely post with some favorites featured. Can’t wait to read Love, Mama. Congratulations!
By curryelizabeth on January 28, 2018 at 11:33 am
Thank you for this inspiring piece! I’ve been trying to finish a YA manuscript, and the picture book ideas haven’t come as quickly as I’d hoped. Maybe another cup of coffee.
By Lyn Miller-Lachmann on January 28, 2018 at 11:57 am
Hooray Jeanette! I’m so excited to read Love, Mama (my library copy is waiting for me now!) and your inspiration tips are excellent. Now as soon as I catch up on Storystorm posts, I’m going to go for a good long walk and see what happens.
By Elizabeth Metz on January 28, 2018 at 11:57 am
I love this pressure-free way of looking at ideas. Thank you!
By Bruna De Luca on January 28, 2018 at 1:01 pm
Thanks for this much-needed reminder!
By singebinge on January 28, 2018 at 1:42 pm
GREAT post, Jeanette! I had to stop reading it twice to write down some ideas. May take a walk this afternoon (it’s warmer outside than inside today, sez my hubby!), and will look for more on the porch when I return. 😉 See you in March at the Carle!
By carolmunrojww on January 28, 2018 at 1:50 pm
Thanks for the invite to tea, and what a wonderful tea it was! So much to learn and digest!
By Lynne Marie on January 28, 2018 at 2:17 pm
Jeanette Bradley, thank you for your lovely post. I appreciate the reminder to tread lightly on the ideas that come. That’s good. Thank you! -Robin
By Robin Bailey on January 28, 2018 at 3:52 pm
Loved the insights from a great collection of books. Thanks!
By Patricia Toht on January 28, 2018 at 4:01 pm
Love your use of classics as examples 🙂 Thank you!
By Marcy P. on January 28, 2018 at 4:22 pm
Beautiful! Thank you.
By Johnell DeWitt on January 28, 2018 at 6:22 pm
Great, inspirational post!
By Sharon Mayhew on January 28, 2018 at 6:56 pm
Such a beautiful post. Thank you, Jeanette! I’ve had my caffeine. Now I’m going out to look on the porch!
By sharonkdal on January 28, 2018 at 7:21 pm
I like your comparison of inspirations to Kitten’s First Full Moon.
By Trine Grillo on January 28, 2018 at 7:22 pm
Love the quotes from the picture books. And, congratulations on yours! It looks adorable.
By Janet Smart on January 28, 2018 at 8:00 pm
A cup of tea. Simply delicious ideas!
By deniseaengle on January 28, 2018 at 10:49 pm
Caffeine is definitely my “go to” forhelp with inspiration! And I love the idea of something waiting quietly on the porch. Thanks for a sweet post!
By Vicki Wilke on January 28, 2018 at 11:28 pm
I love the quotes from the books, and your book looks wonderful!
By sjctenney on January 29, 2018 at 12:37 am
I love your post. This is so true! “Your ideas will grow while you aren’t paying attention.”
By rgstones on January 29, 2018 at 12:37 am
Love this, Jeanette: “Tap into your stardust magic.” Yes!
By Barb Ostapina on January 29, 2018 at 1:35 am
Great analogies, Jeanette! Thanks for the inspiration!
By Abi Cushman on January 29, 2018 at 2:09 am
Thank you, Jeanette! The minor galaxy visualization always does it for me, but I haven’t applied it to writing. It got me through childbirth, it can get me through a picture book!
By Michelle Sumovich on January 29, 2018 at 2:34 am
It is so true that ideas and ways to resolve problems in my writing come when I don’t expect them to. I had an idea as I was chopping tomatoes last week. I don’t know if it will end up as a book but I hope so, I’m just waiting for the seed to grow :o)
By Catherine F on January 29, 2018 at 3:07 am
Thank you, Jeanette. I’m always taking books out of the library. I love perusing through. I also study the art. Thanks.
By debobrienbookscom on January 29, 2018 at 6:17 am
What a lovely inspirational post. Thanks Jeanette! I don’t need to win because I already have a copy of your wonderful book but I AM waiting impatiently to read more books to come!
By Paula Cohen Martin on January 29, 2018 at 9:22 am
Before daughters, I never thought of writing picture books, but now I am constantly studying and deconstructing them as I read to my girls.
By Cheryl Kula on January 29, 2018 at 9:34 am
How lovely was that blog post? Thanks, Jeanette.
By Brianna Zamborsky on January 29, 2018 at 10:47 am
“You are but a bit of leftover star swirling in a minor galaxy in an expanding universe. No one cares if that idea you just had is stupid, and you shouldn’t either.” – Jeanette Bradley My favorite thing today.
By Michelle O'Hara Levin on January 29, 2018 at 11:41 am
This was such a lovely, sweet post. Thank you!
By Kelly on January 29, 2018 at 12:14 pm
I love the visual I got when reading the part about handling story ideas with care, not loudly, not rushed. Then a story idea popped into my head where the story ideas were little beings……………….ooooooooo yeah….
Thanks!!!!!!!
By julia dworschack on January 29, 2018 at 1:12 pm
Thanks Jeanette. Im getting a head start on February’s National Haiku Writing Month.
A new year begins.
Ideas sprout from seeds that
have long lain dormant.
By Laurie Swindler on January 29, 2018 at 2:41 pm
Very inspirational. Thank you.
By Guyla Greenly on January 29, 2018 at 4:17 pm
Thank you Jeanette for sharing this with us. 🙂 Looking forward to reading your new book!
By Traci Bold on January 29, 2018 at 4:44 pm
Thank you for this post! After reading it, I felt a weight lift from my shoulders that I didn’t even realize was sitting there. I took a deep breath, exhaled, and felt better. Having the opportunity to think about writing, to read about writing, and to play with story ideas is a gift in and of itself. Thanks for the reminder and the helpful tips!
By Faith on January 29, 2018 at 5:22 pm
Thank you for that spritz of stardust magic.
By topangamaria on January 29, 2018 at 5:45 pm
Thanks for the lovely examples and great encouragement. Time for tea!
By claireannette1 on January 29, 2018 at 7:06 pm
What else could we need but books and coffee? Thanks for the stardust and story seeds.
By Buffy Silverman on January 29, 2018 at 7:09 pm
I enjoyed your post and appreciate your sound advice.
By Steve Schwartz on January 29, 2018 at 9:58 pm
Thanks for the fun post.
By Sara Gentry on January 29, 2018 at 11:00 pm
Thanks!
By annettepimentel on January 29, 2018 at 11:52 pm
“Why, caffeine, of course!” Best opener ever! Thank you for the comforting and wise advice, Jeanette!
By Elizabeth McBride on January 30, 2018 at 12:16 am
Thanks for the inspiration.
By Andrew Lefebvre on January 30, 2018 at 1:11 am
I have the cup of tea beside me, strong and hot. It’s time to tackle that stack of PBs from the library. Here’s hoping I find that bowl of milk before my cats do:)
By Daryl Gottier on January 30, 2018 at 10:30 am
Can’t go wrong with books, caffeine, friends . . . and stardust magic! Thanks so much for the laughs and encouragement, Jeanette. Such a fun post!
By Delfina Salimbene on January 30, 2018 at 10:37 am
Congratulations, Jeanette on your book!!. I love to write with a cup of tea beside me. In this case ideas from tea and books. Thank you for the advice of not taking oneself seriously and that inspiration can be illusive when chased, but comes with taking the moment. I like the seed analogies.
(Naana)
By nabinava on January 30, 2018 at 11:54 am
Frog and Toad is one of my absolute favorites – and so is this post. No one cares! And neither should I! 😉 Love it. Thanks, Jeanette!
By Carrie Finison on January 30, 2018 at 1:38 pm
I love the ideas as seeds analogy (especially with the writer as Toad!)
By Carolyn on January 30, 2018 at 2:52 pm
This was a lovely post, Jeanette Thank you!
By Cathy Ogren on January 30, 2018 at 3:45 pm
I am a big fan of scribbling ideas on back of receipts, etc. I have a small bulletin board on my wall where I tack the ideas until I can write them in a log. Thank you!
By Debbie Zapata on January 30, 2018 at 3:59 pm
I love your book and I agree that ideas, are wispy creatures. They can’t be forced or commanded. They love coming at the darndest times; usually when they are least expected. Thanks for the great post.
By Maria Marshall on January 30, 2018 at 4:27 pm
Your book looks adorable!!! I can’t wait to read it! So sweet, just like your fun post. I love all the lines from classic stories.
By Virginia Law Manning on January 30, 2018 at 5:44 pm
Kitten’s First Full Moon was a favorite in our house when the kids were really little. They used to lick the pages!
By Heather Thurmeier on January 30, 2018 at 5:59 pm
Great post. I loved how you shared parts from picture books to teach us about ideas. Fun!
By Ashley Bankhead on January 30, 2018 at 6:35 pm
Aww the passage from Frog and Toad was always one of my favorites. I want to check out each of these books for inspo as well. Thank you for this post!
By Amanda Herron on January 30, 2018 at 8:55 pm
I liked your suggestion to “let your ideas grow at their own pace.” Thank you, Jeanette.
By DB Cote on January 30, 2018 at 11:04 pm
Great post. An artist-in-residence on a traveling art museum on a train!!?? That alone had me pondering for quite a while! Thank you for your suggestions. 🙂
By Bronte Colbert on January 31, 2018 at 1:22 am
Wonderful to read your post, Jeanette!
By Beth Elliott on January 31, 2018 at 7:00 am
I love this post! Thank you! The connection to books is fabulous. What connected with me most was the Frog and Toad quote. I’m so excited I got 30 ideas this Story Storm. And you hit on the head why I haven’t in the past. I put too much pressure on the ideas. Now to turn them into books. Thanks for the inspiration!
By Christine Fleming McIsaac on January 31, 2018 at 10:14 am
What a lovely post. Time for a cup of tea.
By Lauren Soloy on January 31, 2018 at 12:08 pm
Thank you for a great post. T
By tanjabauerle on January 31, 2018 at 12:20 pm
Tea time! Thanks for a great post!!
By Sarah Maynard (@SarahDMaynard) on January 31, 2018 at 2:04 pm
Thank you!
By Midge Ballou Smith on January 31, 2018 at 3:32 pm
Congrats on your debut book! What a fun post, Jeanette. Pulling inspiration and tips from books was brilliant. May all our ideas grow from frightened seeds to stardust magic.
By Joannie Duris on January 31, 2018 at 5:17 pm
Thanks for the reminder that ideas shouldn’t be expected to be award winners the minute they leave your pencil.
By Hannah Tuohy (@hannahlollman) on January 31, 2018 at 5:24 pm
LOVE, MAMA looks adorable! Happy Book Birthday Month! 🙂
By Sheri Dillard on January 31, 2018 at 5:50 pm
Have you written about the art museum on the train? I’m tempted by that idea. Thanks for a good post.
By sallie wolf on January 31, 2018 at 7:25 pm
Thanks for the inspiration!
By Maria J Cuesta on January 31, 2018 at 8:09 pm
This happens to me all the time, I hesitate in writing an idea down that I assume is ‘not good enough’. Thanks for the encouragement.
By Helen Lysicatos on January 31, 2018 at 8:34 pm
Your post caused me to write down 3 ideas that have been swimming in my thoughts for a while now. I kept thinking of them but I didn’t have storylines. Tonight I’m just letting them sit in my notebook. They may never become stories but at least they are written down. Thank you, Jeanette!
By Doris k Stone on January 31, 2018 at 9:00 pm
I believe I am too late but just in case I wanted to say:
I HAVE to write that down at my desk. “They tend to flee when criticized.” Also, I am going to be more open to writing down even just the single word idea and see how it grows from there. Thank you for this!
By Mary Cox on February 1, 2018 at 12:37 am
I know the perfect person to have tea with. Thanks for the reminder and the tips!
By Terri Sabol on February 1, 2018 at 1:57 am
It’s a frigid night in Colorado and a cup of tea is next for me. Perhaps an idea will be floating in it. LOVELY post!
By sunwalker2013 on February 1, 2018 at 2:43 am
This is a lovely post, Jeanette. We need to work hard, yet not take ourselves too seriously either. Thank you.
By CindyC on February 1, 2018 at 10:46 am
Congrats on your debut picture book! Now I’m off to go check my porch…
By Louise Aamodt on February 1, 2018 at 2:21 pm
Great post. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
By Cathy Biggerstaff on February 1, 2018 at 2:50 pm
Love the insights. Thank you!!!
By Anna Levin on February 1, 2018 at 3:10 pm
Thank you for the virtual cup of tea and storytime. That’s one of my favorite things to do. And congratulations on your new book. How adorable!!! I’m super excited for you. 🙂
By Debbie Meyer on February 1, 2018 at 4:08 pm
I really enjoyed reading this post–thank you!!
By Melanie Lucero on February 1, 2018 at 5:29 pm
I love Arnold Lobel. Thank you for all your inspiration.
By Alberto Martín "NiñoCactus" on February 1, 2018 at 7:03 pm
This is beautiful. Now off to cultivate my seeds…
By Allison Alley on February 2, 2018 at 2:03 am
I love any post that quotes Frog and Toad. 🙂 Thanks for the reminder to not take myself too seriously.
By Susanne Whitehouse on February 4, 2018 at 3:06 pm
What a beautiful post. Especially love the nod to Frog and Toad!
By Janet Frenck Sheets on February 5, 2018 at 3:56 pm
A truly inspirational post. Thank you, Jeanette!
By Lori Mozdzierz on January 26, 2020 at 7:26 am