This is one of my all time favorite blogs for children's book writers.  Classes and critique sessions are available from these two writers and there is lots of free info on their Mentors For Rent site.  One of the goals I have this year is to purchase some of their sessions.

https://mentorsforrent.wordpress.com/blog/

Christmas gifts

A Christmas present to myself.  It is a beautiful book, similar in feel to Nancy Tillman's books.  Sitting by the fire next to the Christmas tree, savoring each spread.

A present that topped that one though, this year, is my three week old grandson.  This evening, I sat by the tree holding him, talking to him as his little eyes looked at me listening.  That is a gift like no other.  It goes deeper in the heart than even a beautiful book, deep within that place where books are born.

Grateful

The day after Thanksgiving and I finished the wedding scene illustration!  I am grateful for so much, especially the birth of my first grandson, Judson.  And I am grateful to be finished with this illustration and moving forward with this project.

I painted this for inspiration in my office/studio.  It is a very precious and powerful word to me.  What a glorious gift that we all have-the ability to dream!

My new website is up and running, a few new pieces added and more pages to come in the future.  I am sooo thankful website builder is easier to use now.  It had a mind of its own when I built my last site!

www.Melissa-Ross.com

 A recent school visit in Killeen, Texas.

Note the student bending down with me.  I love the lively characters I meet!

This student colored her own super hero emblem.

My new librarian friend. 

My husband came along and we made a stop in Waco on the way home to visit family, and of course, Magnolia.

A few samples from the co-op art classes I am teaching this semester.

High school watercolor surreal scene.

Contrasting color trees: Elementary

                                                      Highlighted pumpkins: Elementary