Tag: Micheline Ryckman

Embracing Uncertainty

Published on by Hannah Greentree4 Comments

At this point I just might be able to write a novel based upon the real events of my own life. If I carefully plotted out my forty-seven year old history, I’d end up with a story full of flawed characters, twisted turns, and insurmountable odds. Seriously, if you knew my tale, in all it’s strange and colourful glory, you’d probably agree that it’s near novel worthy. I am laughing inwardly now because, while I love fiction, I never really wanted my life to mimic it.

I’ve heard them, (you know them), say that the we are the authors of our own destiny. As a middle aged woman, with a fair amount of road now behind me, I know this isn’t 100% true. We do have a say in a large portion via our personal choices, but we have only to look at relationships, health struggles, accidents, and the larger world view to see that life is full of uncertainty. I’m going to quote scripture now, bear with, ’Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.’ (Proverbs 27:1)

Uncertainty is a universal truth, and if I’ve learned anything, rallying against it doesn’t work, but embracing it does.

Yesterday I learned that because of unforeseen circumstances Charting Stars will have to be put on hold for an indefinite period. (It was set to release October 1st.) I am obviously heartbroken by this, but I am trying to embrace the uncertainty (the fact that this is just life), so that I can carry on. Though I may feel like my life story could be novel material, I’m pretty sure it will not have that kind of cataclysmic finish that ends up on the bestseller list, but my prayerful hope is that, despite the uncertainty of every day yet to come, I will be able to live out whatever is left of my own story here moving forward in a positive, cheerful and worthy manner.

If you’ve read all of that, you are appreciated beyond words. Thanks for sticking with me.

The Maiden Ship

Published on by Hannah Greentree1 Comment

In my last post I shared with you about how The Maiden Ship came to be, today I’d like to share my first painting inspired from this new novel, and also give you a peek at the synopsis. I hope you enjoy! Remember to follow along on Instagram or Facebook for more daily posts. 🙂

  Dain Alloway was only nine years old when he began a new life with his father, sailing aboard The Maiden. Eight years later, the aristocratic city-boy turned merchant-sailor feels like he lives with one foot on land, and one foot in the sea. Life floats smoothly by until the night he wakes to find a mysterious woman in his cabin.

   The events that unfold after her appearance transform Dain’s world. Now, hunted by empty-faced demons, he finds himself thrown into a dangerous web of intrigue and magic. As the crisis grows, the young sailor discovers powerful gifts buried deep within, talents that might shift the tide of a centuries-old war. Whether or not he’s ready, Dain will have to risk it all for the salvation and freedom of those he loves.

From Adversity to Creativity

Published on by Hannah Greentree2 Comments

Isn’t it amazing how adversity can redirect our path? Most of you know that my drawing arm was severely injured six months ago, and for nearly five of those months I could not create art. It was an immense blow, not only financially, but emotionally. In addition to other chronic health struggles, this injury pushed me to my limits, and for the first couple of months I struggled through a profound depression. Eventually I sought professional counselling services, and for the sake of my mental health, I worked hard towards finding another creative outlet.  

It was writing that I steered towards. It was something I could do despite my physical state, I could dictate verbally when the pain was too great, and I could use my good arm to type on the better days. It became a way to get the pictures out of my head without being able to draw them, and it gave me a sense of purpose amidst the suffering.

Years ago, when my children were small, I started a novel called, ‘The Maiden Ship’. However, as work and the demands of life accumulated I set writing aside. After nearly a twenty year relapse I returned to this book, and I returned to it because of adversity. Surprisingly, I managed to finish the novel just as my arm slowly began healing at the five month mark. The book is completed and now in the editing phases. The thing is, if these struggles had not happened to me, I very likely would have never written the book. I would have been too busy making art. (Which is still obviously my favourite thing to do in the world. 😉 )

I know this is the first book I’ve ever attempted on my own, so it’s definitely not going to be a New York Times bestseller, but that was never the point. If, in the end, only three people read it, I’m good with that because, honestly, this novel has already proven it’s worth, it saved me. That’s what makes it special. 

All that to say, this is my first drawing related to my new novel, and I promise to share more details about these characters, the synopsis, and the release date soon, but for now, if you’re interested, take a peek at my Maiden Ship story highlight on Instagram to read some quotes and see some character aesthetics. 😘

If you read all the way down to here, then you are my hero, and the truest WHIMSY at heart. You are loved! ❤️

Charting Stars Now Available as an EBOOK!

Published on by Hannah GreentreeLeave a comment

Good morning from Canada my friends! Just wanted to let you know that Charting Stars Book 1 is now available in an ebook version! We are hopeful that this option will finally give those who live really far away from us the opportunity to enjoy this story. Please take a peek in OUR SHOP!