As the title implies, this blog post is not of the one-note sort. Instead, it carries the musical variety and emotional range of a High School Musical showstopper. So, I'll divide this post into 3 parts: The Bitter, The Sweet, and the So Sweet I Think I Might Be Sick.
The Bitter:
If you've been following the publishing market, you know it's as unsteady as Zac Efron's singing voice (yes, all of my analogies are going to be HSM-based). HarperCollins had a round of layoffs on Tuesday, and the ax fell on yours truly. Many others, much more talented in their jobs than I, also lost their jobs that day- and their absence really is a great loss. I have no doubt that everyone who was laid off will bounce back stronger than ever- but it was still a very difficult day around the office. Many, many talented people of course remain to keep producing great books, and I will certainly be watching the Greenwillow list in the years to come when looking for great books for my friends and, someday, family. So to everyone at the Greenwillow and HarperCollins families: it was an honor to work with you, and I will certainly miss everyone.
Pretty bitter, right? What could possibly taste sweet after this bitter pill?
The Sweet:
Believe it or not, I was heading in to work that very day to hand in my notice! My husband and I are packing our wagons and heading out west! We're moving from New York to Portland, Oregon! For a visual reasoning as to why we're moving, please see the following examples of our experiences:
NEW YORK:
OREGON:
Yes, we're pretty excited, and we've been planning this for about the past year and a half. And now it's only two weeks away!!! I will, of course, keep a running commentary on this blog, as we move into Ramona Quimby and Twilight territory.
And last but not least, the sweet pit of sweetness inside the already sweet Everlasting Gobstopper (new analogy):
The wedding was fantastic, and thanks to everyone for your warm wishes! Because really, jobs and location don't really feel all that important, when you have love and happiness in your life.
8 comments:
WOW, see how things just have a way of working themselves out...
A big congratulations, Vicky! I am so happy for you guys. I wish you much happiness and success on the west coast--and i'll be checking in here to keep updated on all your future books!
Keep in touch!
Congrats Vicki on your wedding and your fun move! How perfect that it all worked out.
My Grandma Virgie always said that everything happens for a reason... Wishing you all the best in this great new chapter for you and your new hubby! I have never been to Oregon, but have only ever heard great things about it! Wish I could give you a hand packing! Feel free to crash with us here in MN on your way to Oregon if you need to!
I had wondered whether you'd remain unaffected by the news. Funny how this is really good news, afterall...Congratulations on getting fired!
Nina's got a good idea there, too. If you're going to do a road trip out to Oregon, you'd have a place to stay in MN!
Hey Vicki, I had wondered if the recent news had affected you. What kismet that you were already planning your next move, literally! Congrats on the wedding, and good luck in Portland. Its a great place for artists. Will look forward to seeing more stories on the blog.
This is why I love being a children's book illustrator- it's such a supportive community. Thanks, guys! And thanks for the MN offers- but the idea of driving a truck over the mountains in the winter was a little daunting, so we hired movers & are flying over. Luxury!
Boy have I been out of the loop...So sad to see hear of your publishing departure, but relieved to hear it was in your plans anyway.
So Oregon? Wow. Come to think of it, I think I know a few childrens' book authors/illustrators out yonder...you'll make a nice addition to the creative west coast masses.
Wow. That's a great story. It seems like it all ends super happy, though. Sorry the East Coast lost you, but very happy we all gain you as a full time illustrator. Congrats on all fronts.
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