Letter No. 6 [quarantine]
Dear Friend,
I don’t need to inform you of what’s happening. The latest update though: The governor of Massachusetts just ordered a stay at home until April 4th. It goes into effect today at noon.
What have we been doing? An odd assortment of art, music, and writing things. The girls have started school again, online, and we all try to find our own little corners of the house to be alone in. Also, I’ll just mention that baking is a hazardous habit to take up during this time.
I was looking through some old illustrating notebooks this weekend and came across a few pictures I wanted to share. They made me smile. I’ve been watching some funny guys on Instagram too…authors and illustrators who are reading picture books aloud on their pages. I’ll share two of my favorites here for you to enjoy as well.
I feel like people are expecting to be especially productive during this time, but I’m finding it difficult. Time seems to stretch out endlessly, and pressure has always been a motivator. Now to learn self-discipline! I don’t know when this will calm down, but I will say, I am thankful for our powerful God who protects His people, preserves His global church, and is still sovereign and in control. I am thankful for my family because they’re fun to be with, and I am thankful for this time, whatever hard things it’s brought.
Be well and safe,
Tara
P.S. Here are those two guys I was talking about.
Guy one: Mac Barnett
Monday night, I watched a video by him that gave me a much needed laugh. It’s here and only about seven minutes, so go watch it if you need a laugh too. Also, a few months ago my sister introduced me to the funniest TEDTalk I have ever listened to, and it’s this same guy. Watch it here.
Guy two: Oliver Jeffers
After I watched Oliver Jeffers live for the first time (he read one of his picture books out loud and then explained some of his inspiration and process behind the story), I was more inspired and encouraged than almost anything else I had read or seen. He embraces his career with an honesty and humor that lifted me. He goes live on his feed every day to read his picture books.