I had written and edited the story for my first book, and finished the illustrations. The next step was printing book prototypes so that I could get input from beta readers including both children and adults. I needed professional color printing, so off to the printer I went.
It must be an age-old conundrum for practiced martial artists. Even adults brag on their karate skills, but lack the ability to show it. Traditional martial artists consistently build character and that should be apparent in their behavior of striving for respect, self-control and confidence even if they never show you their fighting or defense moves.
For my first two classroom readings of my character building book I went to two separate kindergarten classrooms where I knew none of the kids and only one of the teachers. That’s where I introduced character concepts through my fictional karate story.
These art history stories and other info led to me hosting retreats where I am sharing with and encouraging other creatives. I don't hold people to the standard of the art and literary masters. They don’t even have to share what they create. They are invited to join the space and create alongside other creatives in a positive, supportive environment.
I imagined that the butterfly had gracefully flitted about as butterflies do, then got hit by a car. When I decided to share it, I wondered if I should put a disclaimer first, about it not having a happy ending.
I thought it would be fun to share a little more of my creative writing. This is in the point-of-view of the dog, Loki, who once had the habit of running.
Michi’s room stays very tidy. But I hope she doesn’t constantly return all of her items out of worry over what people think of her. I hope she can relax and be herself in her own room.
A poem about a toddler's reaction to a dog wearing a doggy sweater which brought me back to my childhood. Celebrating cute pups & the free joy of a child's laughter.
Here’s a peek at the colors I considered for the lead characters in "The Can-Do Karate Kid." The boy, Makoto, is the protagonist. The slug monster is named Laziness. And the snail monster is Procrastination in the book.
Makoto, the main character in my children’s picture book, likes to keep it fun. Here we get to know this nine-year-old boy by the things in Makoto's room.