Hello Spring!

IT’S SPRING!

It’s been over three months since my last newsletter and a lot has happened since then. I created new pieces for my portfolio, went to my first SCBWI conference, met lots of inspiring illustrators, worked hard (but failed) at trying to create a new Skillshare class and started working on a picture book idea. Some plans worked and some didn’t. The ones that didn’t left me feeling dull and low on energy. But now that it’s spring, I feel like it’s a new beginning once again. A time to recalibrate and start refresh. Starting again is like spring cleaning. A time to look at those new year’s goals, keep what still feels good and discard that which feels old.

A TIME TO LET GO OF WHAT FEELS OLD…

I was hoping to have published a new class on Skillshare by this time. I had published one in 2020 and I knew that I could do it easily. I tried hard to get into the flow of it but this time around it just didn’t have the same energy. In 2020 it had felt exciting and fun and inspired. This time it felt dull and old and forced. I ended up spending long days full of procrastination and distraction - lots of Netflix and guilt. The longer it took, the harder it became. Finally, a couple of weeks ago, after several more failed attempts, I finally decided to let go of my Skillshare goal. And with it, to also let go of the guilt of giving up on something. This goal was not born from inspiration. It was born from what others were doing and from what I thought ‘I should be doing’.

… AND START AFRESH

Instead, I moved towards my inspiration. A children’s book idea that has been growing in my head for a few years. This was not in any of my original plans for 2023. But I was nudged to start working on it during the conference. I started putting it on paper (iPad) and finished an initial draft. I don’t know how long it will take for this book to see the light of day but I recognize this energy well. I know that this book will become a real thing one day.

A TIME TO LET INSPIRATION IN…

I can get lost working by myself at home. It’s my happy place. I don’t feel a strong urge to go out or interact with anyone outside my family. Especially in the winters. But this winter I pushed myself to go for a walk everyday. Most of the time, I walked by myself, listening to a podcast or an audiobook. This walk is not for exercise - at least that’s not it’s main goal. That’s just a happy side effect. I walk for my soul. It’s a time when new ideas creep into my subconscious mind. When new pathways and solutions find their way to me.

Last week Central Park came alive. Now there are cherry blossoms everywhere and the Park is filled with the most gorgeous shades of green, pink, purple and white. Now I don’t have to force myself to head out anymore. Now I can’t wait to go out, to feel the crisp air, see the abundance of nature, hear the birds chirp loudly. Watching nature’s creativity in action inspires our own. There is an unmistakable energy in the air. We are made of the same energy. Spend some time outside whatever your weather and let nature inspire you.

AND A TIME TO CELEBRATE!

In more exciting news, both the books I illustrated and designed last year are now available for sale on Amazon and on each authors’ website. Making a book is magical - you start with just a dream and then slowly you see it materialize right before your eyes. After lots of slow and steady steps, lots of ups and downs, you finally get to hold it in your hand, carry it in your bag and flip through its pages whenever you like. And the best part is that you get to watch children get lost in its pages.

Both Priyanka and Shetal are first time authors and it’s been such a joy sharing this journey with them. A book carries a piece of the creator’s spirit in it. I am so grateful that they decided to trust me with their theirs.

Here’s a little bit about each book and where you can get your copy:

F is for Faith, G is for Guru

‘F is for Faith, G is for Guru’ offers a simple and fun way to introduce your child to the world of spirituality. Written as a A-Z book with simple short sentences and child friendly illustrations, the book works as a great starting point to discuss faith with young children and foster a child friendly discussion about Hindu principles and spiritual traditions in your home.

Get your copy from the author’s website or from Amazon.

Shakti Girls

Shakti Girls is a collection of children’s rhyming stories of 13 Indian women that reflect the diversity of India and its diaspora, including representations of over 10 different industries such as women in science, math, politics, activism and sports. A collection of poetic stories that allow children to imagine limitless possibilities, Shakti Girls engages with rhyme and lyrical prose that is both accessible and enjoyable to young readers.

Get your copy from the author’s website or from Amazon.

AND OF COURSE, A TIME TO FEEL GRATEFUL

Once again, thank you for being here, for reading my words and when you feel the urge, writing back. I appreciate you.