Ten writers for children. All with something to say.

11/21/12

Thankful

I have many, many things to be grateful for this Thanksgiving, one of them being that I have finished the interior artwork for Arlo's ARTrageous Adventure, the first picture book where I will be both the author and illustrator. After an intense summer and fall of painting, I packaged all the interior artwork and mailed them to my publisher in New York City on October 26, my 52nd birthday. Relieved, I waited to hear that they had arrived.

That's when Hurricane Sandy struck.

The artwork was scheduled to arrive on Monday, but Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday came and went, and the UPS tracking system could only tell me that my package's last destination was Long Island City, and that emergency conditions were preventing them from delivering it. I didn't allow myself to think about  four months' worth of work being washed out to sea, and trusted that UPS would keep my paintings safe and dry until they could land on my art director's desk. Then, on November 6, over a week past the projected arrival time, I received word that my package had been received in perfect condition. Whew. And for that I am very thankful.

9 comments:

Stephanie said...

Oh thank goodness they made it okay:) The art looks so cool and I can't wait to see the finished book.

Lauren said...

Oh good heavens David!!! I had a heart attack just reading your post! I am SO glad your art made it safely!

john said...

David, I love the look of the new book. Congratulations. The drama of the journey to New York adds an additional dimension. I can't wait to see all the art.

Christy said...

I had no idea what a close call you had! If your post didn't start with being thankful, I would have guessed that all was lost.

The art looks so fun! Congratulations. Maybe this is the first of many.

Library Jewel said...

Thanks for sharing one spread from this creative book! I am so anxious to see it all put together - and finally with a title.

Laurie Skiba said...

I was nervous reading your post even though I knew of the happy ending, David! And it's really fun seeing the opening spread. You have done a phenomenal job, David. Much to be thankful for indeed!

Edie Hemingway said...

David,
I was thankful to read to the happy ending of your story! And how wonderful to be both author and illustrator.

Diane Adams said...

Wow David, that's a story in itself! And yes, what a happy ending.

Diane Adams said...

Wow David, that's a story in itself! And yes, what a happy ending.