Gemma Sokol

Were you born in the US?

Yes, I was born in Los Angeles, but moved to Frankfurt, Germany at the age of 2.

Why did your family move abroad?

My Dad got a job in Frankfurt while working for CitiGroup, and the opportunity was too good to pass up.

Did you attend English-speaking schools in Germany?

I was little, so I went to a bi-lingual Montessori school, where I became fluent in German. My parents took German classes too, so we could all learn together and speak it at home.

You were very young when you lived there, but do you have any special memories of Frankfurt?

Yes. There is a big shopping mall called NordWestZentrum with a spectacular glass ceiling, and in that mall was a cool post office. As a little girl, it was a really special treat to go shopping and then mail packages back to the states at that post office. The indoor swimming pools in Frankfurt are some of the best I’ve ever visited!

How old were you when you left Germany?

We moved to London when I was five and a half and stayed there for six and a half years.

What were the British schools like?

My parents had me switch schools a few times to find the best one for me. One private school I went to had required church services, and we sang hymns. It was a good learning experience, because my family is Jewish, and I had never been exposed to church before. In order to go to secondary school, there is a very long application process. You have to sit for exams, write essays and fill out long and involved applications. It is very competitive and somewhat stressful. But I made it through the process, and it was all worth it!

Gemma and her brother, Coleman, in London

Are the academics different in Britain than they are in the US?

In British schools, students learn foreign languages early. I took French from third through sixth grade. Then in sixth grade, I took German and Latin. Throughout my British education, religious studies were part of the curriculum giving me the opportunity to learn about a lot of religions different from my own. The schools took us on field trips to a wide variety of houses of of worship almost every 2 weeks for educational purposes. It was fascinating to learn about so many fascinating religions this way. I wish American schools did this as well.

So would you say the academics are better in Britain or just different?

Both. For example, in fifth grade, we took a trip to the Isle of White, and in sixth grade we went via ferry and bus to France, where we stayed and explored for 8 days. It was an amazing trip! I’d have to say the academic opportunities are better there. The education is very career driven. You must know what you want to study before you graduate from secondary school; college placement is geared toward specific career paths from day one. Students take exit exams in so many subjects and have to pass all of them in order to graduate and go to college.

Are there any other differences?

The overall environment is different in British schools. They do not have school spirit like we do in the US. I’d describe it by saying it is not as interactive as American schools.

Was it hard to make friends in your schools?

Luckily I’m outgoing and make friends fairly easily, no matter where I am. But every school I’ve been to has one thing in common; there are plenty of cliques. Kids everywhere just want to fit in.

How did you like British cuisine?

Because England has a large Indian population, there are countless Indian restaurants in, and around, London. Our favorite restaurant was family owned, serving Indian cuisine, located just around the corner from our house. There really wasn’t any food I did not like in London.

There are over 200 museums in London. Did you have a favorite?

My favorite is the British Museum. The Ancient Egypt exhibit is the best!

How did you feel about coming back to USA?

I was excited to go back to L.A,, with the thrill of Hollywood and the movie stars. I was only 12-years-old when I came back to this country so I had quite a strong a British accent. But it drew so much attention, and I constantly got so many comments that I made an effort to change it. It took me under a year to lose that accent, though it’s still here inside me. We had to rent an apartment for a while when we came back to the U.S., and I missed the spacious, multi-level house we had in England. But more than anything, I really missed the small town feeling of Europe, with local shops and cafes right around the corner and great public transportation.

Where have you traveled other than Germany, Britain and France?

I’ve been to over 31 countries. I have to say my favorite city in the world is Venice. Even though there are so many tourists there, it is a magical place. I love that there are no cars, there’s so much art, the architecture is phenomenal, and the food is incredible. I also love watching how Venetian glass is made. When I see films shot in Venice I think, “I’ve stood right there!”

What is the most exotic place you’ve been?

Cyprus is a most unusual place. It is extremely dry and also rather barren in parts, but there are many resorts, ancient ruins and groves of olives trees. It’s also not easy to cross the border into Turkey, and we were advised against it because we were staying on the Greek side and the two countries are in territorial conflict.

Gemma on a recent trip to Paris

How did living abroad change your life?

I have had so much exposure to so many different cultures. I couldn’t possibly have that experience if I had not lived overseas. I have great respect for different ways of life, cultural traditions, religions, laws and history.

You are getting ready to graduate from high school and go to college. Do you know what you would like to study there?

I’m looking into studying communications, art or cultural studies.

So do you feel that your multi cultural education gives you an advantage over other students who have not had opportunities to travel?

Yes. I believe the best way to learn is to experience things firsthand. I have learned to appreciate different ways of life, and being open to those ways – though very different from ours – makes life much richer and education much broader. I am grateful for having had the opportunity to experience so many diverse places in the world and meet people from so many unique cultures. That experience really shaped me into who I am today.

What advice would you give to another student who may be getting ready to live abroad?

No matter how different the culture may be in a foreign country, there are people you will meet who have something common with you. You will quickly acclimate to the different environment and learn the cultural traditions there. The people will be just as interested in getting to know you as you are in getting to know them. Visit all the top attractions, try the local food and learn the language, because this is likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Take advantage of all your experience has to offer, and you won’t have any regrets.

Gemma, thank you for sharing your experiences abroad with our readers. It isn’t often that one learns of life as an Expat from a young person’s perspective. Best of luck to you in college. I’m confident your unique cultural experiences will open many doors for you, and your future will be filled with more travel and adventure. Please keep in touch!

Mongolia

• Government: Parliamentary Republic
• Currency: Togrog/Tugrik
• Official Language: Mongolian
• Size: Approximately 604,000 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2.75 million
• Predominant Religion: Buddhism

Rachel Glade

When you first found out about the opportunity to participate in the PIRE Mongolia Research project as a college freshman at Penn, what made you want to be a part of the experience?

The thought of having a rare adventure to such a remote location as Mongolia, and doing biological research there, really appealed to me. When am I ever just going to pop over to Mongolia on my own and study the environment? I knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Had you ever been abroad before?

No. And since I didn’t know what to expect in such a far away place and had so many flight connections, I was a bit anxious before leaving. But that’s all part of the adventure, and it makes it even more exciting.

Did travel to Mongolia require vaccinations?

Yes, Typhoid Fever, Hepatitis A and B and Tetanus were required. Since we were in a remote location, Rabies shots were optional, but I did not get them.

Which items were required for you to pack for this long trip?

Because the plane from Ulaanbaatar to Moron is so small, there is a 44-lb total baggage weight limit. I had to pack very carefully and sparsely. Lightweight clothing was important, because it weighs very little and can be washed and dried easily, and thin layers are best to keep warm and dry. Most of the time I wore my favorite shoes, Vibram Five Fingers, which dry very quickly. A few essentials I brought included a flashlight, sleeping bag, small pillow, pocketknife, which I used for just about everything – as a pair of scissors I used daily and to cut plants in the field. I brought along insect repellent (massive mosquitoes and horse flies in the fields!!), prescription antibiotics and over-the-counter meds, because there is no doctor, hospital or store within many driving hours from the field site. If a researcher were to get seriously ill – and luckily no one did on this trip – he or she would have to be rescued by helicopter and flown to the hospital in Ulaanbaatar. We all had special insurance in case of an emergency.

Sükhbaatar Square, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Genghis Khan, Emperor of the Mongols, etched into the mountain in Ulaanbaatar

Gilded statue of Buddha inside Gandan Buddhist Monastery, Ulaanbaatar

Now about your journey, how did you get to your remote field site from the USA and how long did it take?

I flew from my home in Miami to Philadelphia, from Philadelphia to Seattle, from Seattle to Seoul, Korea and from Seoul to the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar. Then we stayed in Ulaanbaatar for one full day (2 nights) before taking a tiny plane to the Mongolian city of Moron. From there we drove 3 and a half hours to Hatgal. There we stayed in a ger (Mongolian tent) for one night before driving for 8 hours on a rough trail to our field site in the Dalbay Valley on Lake Hövsgöl. It’s basically in the middle of nowhere. The flight on the way out with connections was around 28 hours from Miami to Ulaanbaatar. Then the flight from there to Moron was about 2 hours, plus the 8 hours of driving. So from the time I left my house in Miami until the time I arrived at the field site was around 3 full days.

That sounds like an exhausting trip! What was that long car trip like to the research site?

Bumpy! There are really no roads, just paths made by other vehicles. 13 people and their luggage were squished into an old, rickety, Russian van with no seat belts; it was so crowded that some of us had to sit on the floor. The roads, if you can call them that, are very muddy. When we got stuck in the mud we all got out of the car and had to use rocks behind the wheels for traction to get us out. Sometimes the engine overheated, so there was nothing to do but wait for the van to cool off. Despite these less than perfect conditions, we made the best of it and had a lot of fun.

A muddy situation on the way to Dalbay Valley

Where exactly is the Dalbay Valley?

It’s in northern central Mongolia, just south of Russia, around Lake Hövsgöl National Park in a very remote location. Click here for a map. The few people who live in this remote part of the country are herders. There are no towns or shops of any kind for many, many miles; it is a very secluded lifestyle.

Can you describe what the Dalbay Valley looks like?

There are beautiful rolling slopes covered with the greenest grass and a wide variety of plants and wildflowers. At the tops of the hills are forests. The riparian zones are the strips of land that rest along the banks of the river. Lake Hövsgöl is quite large and very pristine. This valley is one of the most unspoiled places left on the planet.

Picture perfect: The Dalbay Valley and Lake Hövsgöl

Why was Mongolia chosen for the research project?

Mongolia shows some of the greatest effects of climate change and land use effects such as grazing and farming on the planet.

What were your accommodations like at the field site?

We lived in traditional gers (rhymes with bears), which are round tents, and we slept in sleeping bags on plywood cots with just a blanket on them – no mattresses. At first I had trouble sleeping on the hard surface, but I quickly got used to the beds and slept really well. Doing research requires a lot of physical work, and you are more than ready for sleep at night. The bottom sides of the gers are somewhat open, so it gets awfully cold in there at night and in the early morning hours. There is a fire in a stove in the center of the ger to help keep us warm.

What does a ger look like?

There is a circular frame made from wood with a domed roof covered with yak wool. The entire structure is protected with a canvas cover. The inside is colorfully painted and contains a metal stove/fire pit in the middle for warmth.

The sun setting on the gers (to the left are flags marking a research site)

The interior of the roof of a ger

The stove inside a ger and wooden cots in the background

What about bathrooms?

There was a shed with a toilet, but you have to fill buckets with water to flush it each time. It’s not the best situation, but it was still better than I had expected it to be.

Were there any modern conveniences at the field site?

There was no running water, electricity or cell phone service. I did not even bring my laptop on this trip. We had one generator that was used for refrigerating food and for our satellite system, which allowed us to use a phone in emergencies or to send and receive short emails and to blog every few days.

How did you feel about not using a computer, texting or talking on a cell phone for so long?

I loved it. It was nice to be disconnected from the world for a while and concentrate on my surroundings.

A pensive moment without any distractions from the modern world

How did you take a shower?

We bathed in the ice-cold river using mild, biodegradable soap so as to not pollute the water. The same soap was also used to wash hair and clothing in the river. In an environment such as this, you simply can’t bathe every day, but everyone else is in the same situation, so you just get adjusted to it.

The water in the river is crystal clear and icy cold

What type of food did you eat?

We had a great Mongolian cook at the field site who made fresh yak meat from the valley, goat, soup with meat and lots of vegetables. Goat meat is common as well. It is tasty, but rather tough. There was a cellar where veggies were stored. Our cook made delicious bread on the stove for us, but this is not typical of Mongolian cuisine. My favorite dish was Huushuur, which was fried dough filled with various kinds of meat or organs.

Roasting a goat

How would you describe the taste of eating yak?

A yak is a bovine, like a cow, so it’s a lot like steak – but leaner. It actually tastes pretty good, but they use every part of the animal, whether it is yak, mutton or goat – and do not trim the fat. It is cooked in pieces in a big pot over an open fire.

Yaks are bovines, related to cattle

Where did you get your water to drink?

We used water from the lake and filtered it. It is some of the purest, coldest water in the world and is crystal clear and delicious.

It sounds like this experience would not be ideal for a student who is not willing to give up his or her creature comforts.

Definitely not. The site was really quite comfortable, but a high-maintenance person would probably have a hard time. I’d imagine not showering every day, spending the majority of your time outside, eating food you are not used to, fighting off mosquitoes and dealing with difficult travel to and from the site would be really challenging for some people. Thankfully all the people I travelled with were very easy-going.

Northern Mongolia remains one of the earth’s most unspoiled destinations

What was the weather like while you were there?

Most of the time, it was sunny and beautiful. There were some cloudy days and a few storms. One night we had such a severe thunderstorm that one of the gers almost blew away. Generally it is warm and arid during the day, with the hottest temperatures being in the 80s, and it rather cold at night with temperatures occasionally dipping down into the 30s. One night in July, there was even a frost.

How many others were there with you?

I was one of 6 undergrads, and there were a total of about 20 people on the team including grad students, post-doctorates, professors and other workers. You really get to know people when you live with them in tents in the middle of nowhere and share this most unusual experience. You have a bond after an adventure like this, because no matter how well you describe your experience to others who were not there, they can’t imagine what it was really like.

An expansive herd of sheep and goats graze on a slope

What was it like communicating with the students from the University of Mongolia?

We interacted with the Mongolian researchers daily. Two of the girls in my ger were from the University of Mongolia; they were really nice. Their English was much better than my Mongolian! Verbal communication can be challenging, and we spent a lot of nights teaching each other words in our native languages. We would point at items and just said the word and the others would repeat them. It was highly entertaining. I learned a few Mongolian words, such as ones for volleyball, the number 1-10, thank you, good-bye, what happened? and a few others. The alphabet is Cyrillic, but they do have some adaptations of words in the English alphabet.

What did you have to do to prepare for your fieldwork?

We had to quickly learn the scientific names of 50 different species of plants in 2 days and learn to identify them in the field. We did surprisingly well with a crash course and even got better as time went on. As soon as I got home I found myself trying to identify the plants and grasses in South Florida.

Rachel lurking in the Mongolian forest

Wildflowers abound in the Dalbay Valley

So how did you spend your days while at work?

There were a lot of different projects going on, so everyone spent their time doing different things. We’d generally wake up around 8:30, eat breakfast, work until lunch, and then work again before dinner. Some people rode horses to other parts of the valley to conduct research, but most of us stayed on the slope and surrounding forests right near camp. It takes a lot of sometimes-tedious work to collect data for research purposes. We spent a lot of time collecting plant samples, monitoring and recording data on the various experiments, and maintaining the experiments (i.e. watering, weeding, etc.).

What did you do for entertainment when not working?

We played a lot of volleyball, which is a huge sport in Mongolia. We also played a lot of cards, sang and played guitar, and rode horses. The 4th of July was really special. We roasted a goat and had a big feast along with activities and races. We took a couple of days to attend the Midsummer Festival called Naadam.

Can you tell us about that?

In the beginning of July we drove to Hatgal, a town about 7 hours away from the field site, for Naadam. We saw a horse race, in which 5-6 year old children race for 20km. It’s really amazing to see; some of the kids learn how to ride before they even know how to walk! We also saw Mongolian wrestling, which is very traditional and interesting to watch. There was also an archery competition, and a volleyball competition that we participated in. It was a great event.

The locals wear traditional costumes for the Naadam Festival

Wrestling is a big part of the Naadam celebration

What was it like to ride Mongolian horses?

It was quite an experience. The horses are not quite as domesticated as they are in the states. Mongolians often catch wild horses, throw a saddle on them, and just ride them. It’s really exhilarating galloping through the valley; it was scary at times, though, when it was clear that the horse had more control than you did! The traditional Mongolian saddles are made of wood and can be a little uncomfortable. I had a bit of a problem with the stirrups, which are metal; they hit me right on my shin and caused some ugly bruising!

Other than horses, yaks, goats and sheep, did you see any other animals?

A wild dog came to our camp one day. We named her “Petite Chien.” She looked very mangy and somewhat like a wolf, but she was extremely friendly and submissive. She was very good at rodent control, as she had a knack for hunting ground squirrels! She stayed for a few days, and then disappeared as quick as she had come.

Wild horses are common in the valley

What did you miss most about home?

Though the food was generally very good, I missed American food. Pizza, salad, chicken, pie; these were the things I craved the most. We talked about food a lot, and for some reason, fried chicken was probably the most talked about.

Now that you have been home for a few days, how do you feel?

Happy and exhausted. I missed my connecting flight in San Francisco and got stuck in the airport for 11 hours. Then when I arrived home, I discovered my luggage did not make it on the plane. Eventually the airline delivered it to my house. I’ve been sleeping a lot and eating really healthy, light food. It feels great.

What will you miss most about Mongolia?

I’ll miss a lot of things, but mostly the beautiful landscape. The lake and the mountains were a nice thing to see first thing every morning, and the sunsets were spectacular. I’ll also miss the feeling of being disconnected from the rest of the world; it was nice not having to worry about the internet or cell phones or any of that nonsense.

If you had to describe your Mongolia experience in 4 words, what would they be?

Adventure, yak meat, wildflowers.

What advice would you give to other college students out there who are considering participating in a university research project somewhere in a remote location?

Go for it. There’s no better time to explore and do something crazy and adventurous than in college. Doing research in a remote place is a life changing experience. It will change the way you think and open your mind to different ways of living. It’s also a great way to see hands-on what the wonderfully challenging life of a research scientist is like.

 

Thank you for sharing your summer adventures with us, Rachel. What an extraordinary experience you had.

Click here to read a post about Rachel’s week in Seoul.

One of the reasons for the school’s great success is 4^th grade teacher, Steven Noyes.  Mr. Noyes was recently honored by the Christian Chamber of Southwest Florida as the Golden Halo 2009 Winner.  This award recognizes one outstanding teacher at a private Christian/Catholic school from a pool of five counties in Southwest Florida.  After 50 nominations and 10 finalists were named, Mr. Noyes was selected as the sole winner.  He is a passionate and ultra positive teacher who connects with his students in a most exceptional way. We sat down with Mr. Noyes to ask him questions about his award as well as his teaching philosophy.

Steven Noyes after winning the Golden Halo Award

Congratulations! You must have felt so honored when you found out you were the Golden Halo winner.  What was your initial reaction?

All ten finalists were at a beautiful banquet that evening, and when I was announced as a top three finalist, I started thinking I had a real chance.  Honestly, I was very surprised, but deeply honored.

What did you win and how did you celebrate?

I received a beautiful Golden Halo lapel pin studded with diamonds from the Diamond District, a wonderful certificate of recognition, and a two-day hotel getaway.  I celebrated with my students the next week with a big party!  They loved it!

How long have you been a teacher?

This is my 21^st year as a teacher.  It has been a rewarding and enjoyable journey.

I’ve been to your incredible school and your classroom.  I’ve seen the way you are with your students.  You really have a unique influence on your students.  I see it in your energy and gentle encouragement.  What motivates you to teach?

First and foremost, I love working with children.  I enjoy doing anything and going the extra mile for my students.  They motivate me to be the best I can be, and I never get tired of it.

How does being a teacher at a Christian school affect your teaching methods?

It allows me to be able to speak freely about God and to pray with my students anytime we feel the need.  I think it just takes education to the next level because we share and we care, we play and we pray, and we earn and we learn.

I really like your philosophy… What qualities do you think a good teacher possesses?

I think any good teacher has to love working with children.  They need to have patience, energy, and love for their students.  They also are lifelong learners always striving to be better at what they do.

Your students are so passionate about writing.  How do you motivate them, and what do you do to help them improve their writing skills?

Right from the beginning of the year, I try to show students that writing can be fun.  I show them that it isn’t just sitting down with a sheet of paper, using a graphic organizer, or going through the writing process.  Even though these are great (and needed) tools, we start small and build up to writing stories with various activities and tools.  We focus on “showing not telling”, using vivid language, keeping voice consistent, and using effective transitioning.  It’s a lot of fun to write!

I wish more teachers were able to get their students excited about writing… Describe for us one of the best days you’ve ever had as a teacher?

Honestly, every day is special in it’s own way, but when some of the members of the Christian Chamber entered my room one afternoon surprising me and my class announcing that I was a finalist for the Golden Halo, it was memorable.  Seeing the four students that had nominated me standing there with smiles, and receiving hugs from all of my students brought tears to my eyes.

What are your biggest challenges?

My biggest challenges include trying to meet the needs of each student while also trying to instill class unity in everything we do.  Also, trying to keep students challenged that need it and deserve it, and finding enough hours in a day to do what needs to be done.

I’m sure there are many other teachers out there who share your challenges! You wrote and published your own book of poetry called Journeys:  A Collection of School Poems.  What inspired you to write the book?

I love to write poetry and over recent years, I started writing a few poems about the experiences of students and teachers at school.  I would bring them in and share them with my students.  A couple of years ago, my students said I should have them published, so I self-published a collection of them and made them available for anyone in our school.

That’s another great way you inspire your students to write – by showing them you put out the effort too… When you are not teaching, what do you like to do on your time off?

I love spending time with my family, including my four precious nieces.  I love spending time with friends doing just about anything, and I love coaching. For the past 20 years I have coached 60 different teams from various sports.  I currently coach two basketball teams at our school.

You are indeed dedicated, Steven! I’ve always said that teachers are under-appreciated and underpaid.  Yet, they have one of the most important jobs on the planet.  What do you think we can do to change this?

I think sometimes teachers get a bad rap due to some people having negative experiences during their school years.  I can tell you that the teachers I work with are phenomenal human beings who go the extra mile for our students.  I think most teachers do just that.  As far as money goes, I feel rich in many other ways other than monetary.  I believe that is part of the reward of being a teacher.

Steven accepts his coveted award

What advice do you have for a young teacher who is just starting out?

I think the biggest thing is to be yourself.  It is important that, despite who you might be replacing, or where you come from, that you don’t try to be someone you are not.  Set the tone from day one about your expectations, and stay consistent with them throughout.  Always remember, the students are your number one priority.  They are who you are there for.  If you aren’t there for that reason, the students will know right away.  Being a teacher can be one of the most rewarding occupations.  I know that my students have made a difference in my life in so many positive ways.  I wouldn’t want to do anything else.

Steven, thank you so much for answering our questions. Being a children’s book author, I have met so many dedicated, wonderful teachers and librarians. After observing you interacting with your students the way you do and feeling your students’ admiration for you and enthusiasm for learning, I knew you were an extra special teacher. It’s people like you who will inspire the rest of the world to give teaching the utmost respect it deserves.

Readers, if you live in Southwest Florida and are looking for a beautiful, nurturing, innovative Christian school for your child, be sure to visit The Village School in Naples. This school is home to the happiest students and most passionate teachers I’ve ever met!

6000 Goodlette Rd N
Naples, FL 34109-7206
(239) 449-4968

Bijou Poodles Breeder Laura Turner with some of her browns

How long have you been breeding standard poodles?

Around 17 years

How did you get started in this business?

I was searching for a non-shedding, larger dog that was calm and loving that would be a structurally sound working dog. I then took dog obedience lessons and the instructor was a dog breeder. She encouraged me to attend a fun match. I was so happy doing an activity with my poodle and winning at it. I was hooked. The more I learned the more I wanted to do. The rest is history.

Way too cute reds!

For those who do not know much about standard poodles, can you explain why a person would want one as a pet?

The fact that poodles are non-shedding dogs is probably the biggest draw. Size and ability to protect is an asset. There is no long tail to knock over drinks and small children. But to me the best quality is their total loving empathetic nature. They just know and absorb pain and offer such comfort, and they have a HUGE desire to please. They are very affectionate and have sweet natures. And of course, they are beautiful dogs! They do require a lot of grooming though.

I agree with you. Laura! I’d also add that they are so intelligent and just seem to know what will please you. Darwin is our 2^nd standard poodle pet, and the large size (mostly the height) of our first poodle, Gigi, (50 lbs.) shocked many people. Darwin will be MUCH bigger than Gigi was – as his parents are around 80 lbs. What is the standard size of standard poodles? AKC states a poodle over 15” is a standard poodle.

Show dog Hershey, father of my puppy, Darwin

The average weight is 45-55 lbs. and the average height is 24”.

I chose your breeding services over the many others because you have the most comprehensive website and because you breed for health and calmness. You also are very open about the feedback you get from so many past customers over the years, and you care so much about placing your pups into the right families! What else sets you and your poodles apart from others?

I think the fact that we are pet owners first sets us apart. This means that we only own and breed poodles that we’d wish to own as a pet – those that have the calm, stable temperament that will fit in our home and do the activities that we enjoy doing. Although all our poodles are UKC Champions we don’t dwell on that fact. (Click here for info about ow to find an ethical breeder.)

What can you tell us about health issues as far as large purebred dogs? There is a lot of information about large breeds getting more illnesses than ever before.

I think that with more and more purebred breeders participating in and even paying for health studies, we’re finding that the information about purebreds being unhealthy is inaccurate. Mutt or designer breeds can have horrible illnesses and diseases but this will never come to light in any professional study. The reason is because those breeders are not accountable to anyone, nor do they participate in any studies. Purebreds are registered, so there are health registries that compile information on health issues. And this data can be misconstrued to the public on the health of purebreds. Before getting a dog, you should demand that all the conclusive health testing be done on the pup’s parents, to ensure the puppy you are buying has the best chance of being healthy and living a long life. That being said, in today’s toxic environment, dogs (of every breed and background) are dying younger than they used to. Cancer seems to be the greatest life taker.

What does inbreeding technically mean when it comes to dogs?

Inbreeding to me means brother to sister or dad to daughter or mother to son. What we as breeders are using more these days is a tool called COI which stands for Coefficient Of Inbreeding. It is the calculation used to determine the level of inbreeding on an individual dog or puppy. We can then tell how close we are breeding by the number that comes up. The lower the COI number on a 10 generation breeding the less the inbreeding. It is very important to me as a breeder to use these measures.

What are some of the mistakes people make when getting a new dog?

Treating the puppy like a human, instead of being a good pack leader to the puppy is the biggest mistake new pet owners make. Dogs don’t understand the meaning of being treated “equally.” Puppies need a pack leader who gets the best of everything and does everything first. That’s how dogs are naturally in the wild. Pups need consistent rules to live by in order to grow up and be good canine citizens. They want to please you, the leader.

I am so glad you mention this, because we are determined not to make the same mistakes we made with our first poodle. For example, we never trained her properly to stop jumping on people and pulling on the leash as we walked her. And I’d certainly NEVER feed my new dog from the table again.

Our puppy, Darwin at 11 weeks

Can you give our readers any advice about getting through the challenging puppy phase? We are experiencing that right now ourselves!

Some people feel they are being “mean” by restricting a puppy or teaching them rules. A “bad” owner, will soon create a monster puppy that will rule the house even if they have the most submissive, passive puppy. There are many great TV shows that are free to watch that will educate you on how to be a good pack leader, such as “The End of My Leash” and “The Dog Whisperer.” Know that being a leader and teaching the puppy boundaries and what good behavior is, will equal a happy confident, well behaved puppy in no time. And that will last a lifetime! I guess in regard to the trials and tribulations of puppyhood, the saying “this too shall pass,” would be appropriate to use.

Have you ever had any strange requests from potential customers as far as the type of poodles they are looking for?

OH YES… asking me for blue or green eyes, like I can “create” that. Also I have been asked for special custom sizes, either exceptionally HUGE or very tiny. People need to read the breed standard that AKC has online and understand what physical characteristics are possible in standard poodles.

I’m laughing at the idea of someone asking you for a “tiny” standard poodle when there are toys and miniatures! Do most people who buy puppies from you show their dogs?

No, very much the contrary. People who contact me want loving, healthy pets. I have had many breeders contact us for breeding our show puppies, but I decline, preferring to place our pups in pet homes. I am very strict about where or even IF I will sell a puppy for breeding or show purposes, because I wish to know where the pups I produce and their progeny will end up. I feel a huge sense of responsibility for every puppy that leaves my home.

Gorgeous red show dog Ruby, winning an award

What qualities should a person look for in a standard poodle if he wants to show the dog?

A person needs to start with the Breed Standard. Read about it and know it and all the terms. Learn about what a good standard Poodle moves like, feels like and what qualities the judges are looking for. There are some great books out there like The Complete Standard Poodle by Eileen Geeson, that illustrate details of the Standard Poodle structure.  Then find a breeder who is showing and has championed many of her poodles. This type of breeder will have the right foundation poodle for you and hopefully will mentor you. When it comes to colour know that the judges are familiar and comfortable with the more common colours. Also the more common colours have had more time to be perfected in type and will have a better chance of winning at an AKC dog show. Most owners hire a professional handler to show their poodles in AKC or CKC because maintaining the dog and doing the required grooming for an AKC or CKC championship is beyond most owners’ abilities. There is also a UKC show venue which is restricted only to owner/handlers. This greatly levels the showing field since owners are allowed to show their poodles in a simple sporting clip (shaved down) with no fru-fru clips you are used to seeing on TV.

As a standard poodle owner, I know all about how much exercise these dogs need. Since I am a major exerciser, I consider this a plus. What do you recommend to new owners?

Pups need a lot of sleep and of course some play or exercise to wear them out. A good dog is a tired dog that is for sure. For walking distance the SPCA’s rule of thumb is five minutes per month of life, so if your puppy is 5 months old then he would need 25 minutes of walking per day. I don’t really find an average sized standard needs a ton of exercise. An adult Poodle would benefit from 2 brisk 20-30 minute walks a day, and this is a great way to bond with your Poodle. A trip or two, to the local off-leash dog park (after being fully vaccinated) is a great way to also meet their exercise needs.

This is so important, because I learned firsthand that dogs who get proper exercise are much better behaved!

In addition to breeding and showing poodles, both you and your husband are firefighters. How do you have time for it all?

My husband offers huge support when it comes to doing the socializing or trips to the vet. We are on different schedules as well, so there is always someone home with the dogs. I have a passion for what I do – and as long as I have that – I will have the energy to continue.

How many adult dogs do you have at your home?

We have 6 at any given time. We do have friends who are raising poodles, who come by when they are due to have pups. Or they drop off their dogs for day care or grooming and to enjoy a romp in our spacious yard.

What becomes of your retired (from breeding) poodles?

We have friends and family members who are familiar with our poodles and have welcomed retired poodles into their homes on occasion. We have also found suitable homes through interviews and/or home visits.  The reality is that as small hobby breeders, we just can’t keep every dog. Finding a loving pet home that offers our Poodles the undivided attention and love that our poodles will need and love, is a win-win scenario for everyone. Right now we also have 3 retired poodles living with us.

What do you like best about being a breeder?

I love receiving photos and letters from our puppy owners sharing stories about how our pups have enriched their lives.

From the extensive feedback on your website, I can see how fulfilling that would be! What is the most challenging part of being a breeder?

Trying to produce “perfection.” We strive for the total package, which to me means health (passing all conclusive health testing), temperament (meaning calm and stable), conformation (meets the breed’s standard) and of course obtaining the magnificent, rich, dark colours we are known for. Click here to read about Bijou colours.

Oliver, Cora and Sophie, with their gorgeous fur, pose for the camera

What advice do you have for someone who is thinking about becoming a dog breeder?

I could write a book about the subject! There is a lot to think about, so it is difficult to be brief. Breeding is a huge time consumer, so you will need the whole family on board. A breeder should have a good income to handle all the expenses that arise starting from the initial purchase which could be as much as $2500.00, to completing all of the health testing, the vet bills and advertising to name a few expenses. It is essential to find a good common sense vet that will work with you and not BS you into a lot of unnecessary vet care. People need to shop around for a vet who they trust and one they feel comfortable working with. It would be a huge asset to find an established dog breeder (of any breed) as a mentor who can teach you how to do a lot of your own medical care, and help you with grooming and showing. Also start off with a vision of where you wish to be and what you will wish to do, so that you keep moving in that direction and don’t get off track in your goals. I found dogs I admired and hung photos up to study and help me focus on what I wanted to some day own and produce.

Laura, thank you for all this great information. There are millions of people out there who own dogs or are considering getting a pet and would find your expertise invaluable!

If you would like to visit the Bijou Poodles website, click here. They are located in Toronto, Canada, but Laura can send her pups to you via cargo on a commercial airline safely (note there are restrictions about the time of year pups can fly.) Darwin, my puppy made it to South Florida, warm, happy and in perfect condition in the middle of January. Here’s info about upcoming litters. Email Bijou at brownpoodles @ yahoo.com.

Click here to read our Smart Poodle Comic Strip!

How did each of you get started in karate?

(Doug) I started in karate as a kid in Ohio.  My uncle owned multiple Kenpo Karate schools throughout the area and I trained extensively, earning my first black belt at the age of sixteen.  For years I trained and taught with my Uncle until I left for college.  I regained my passion for the martial arts many years later, when my own son was old enough to train in karate.  I’ve been training in multiple styles since that time, earning 2 additional black belts, and of course, opening a school with my wife, Tiger&Dragon Boca.

(Patty) My karate training started with my son when he was 7 and I was in my late 30s.  I had always been physically fit, working out at the gym and taking various cardio classes. I had watched my son take karate for several months, and then he stopped training.  He had a few months left on his contract, so the instructors asked if I would like to train in his place. Once I started, there was no turning back.  I earned my first black belt in 2008 and have started training in traditional Kenpo with my husband.  My son, age 12, has since re-joined and is well on his way to his first black belt.

Patty and Doug with their sons Dallas (left) and Adam at the studio

How would you best describe Kenpo to someone who may be unfamiliar with it?

Kenpo Karate is not a sport, it is the ultimate in real world self defense.  Kenpo Karate, also known as Ch’uan fa or “fist law,” is both an ancient and modern method of self development and self defense.  A true blending of inner and outer strength, Kenpo helps you develop grace and coordination as well as stamina and speed. Through Kenpo instruction, you will learn proper breathing techniques and movements utilizing the natural weapons of the body – the hands and feet – by developing breath control, muscle tone, quick reflexes and agility.

In addition to self defense, what benefits does Kenpo have for the participants?

The benefits of Kenpo karate, Shootfighting and the martial arts in general are many.
From training, there will be an increase in strength and flexibility, a gain in self confidence, concentration and focus.  Students learn how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations in addition to learning real-world self defense.

Students learn about their true inner strength and the art of self control, and experience improved cardiovascular health, weight loss and muscle toning through training and exercise.

After the holidays, are you seeing a lot of people who are coming into the studio to get into shape?

We definitely saw an increase in interest during and immediately after the holidays.  We all know that the holidays bring out the best in good food, celebrations and family time that often revolve around meals and delicious foods.  We often “give” ourselves permission to indulge during this time of year and have to pay the price afterwards.  New Year’s resolutions are a big part of this, but it’s our job to convince people that good health is more than a short-term project – it should be a part of everyday life all year long.

If a participant is dedicated, how many years does it take to accomplish a black belt?

The typical student (age 7+) can earn a black belt in Kenpo in 4 to 6 years, depending on the amount of time and effort spent training and practicing.  It takes approximately 3 to 5 years to earn a black belt in Shootfighting.

At what age can a child begin taking karate lessons?

We offer lessons beginning at age 3.  Even at this young age, it is important to be active, burn off that excessive energy, learn how to listen, focus and follow directions.  They are taught some martial arts basics, but the drills teach them life skills that help them through their school years and at home – discipline, respect, self-confidence, control and so much more.  Plus it’s a lot of fun!

Kenpo for kids at Tiger & Dragon Boca

What is Shootfighting?

Shootfighting® is a Japanese based, complete fighting system that combines both kickboxing with submission wrestling (ground fighting).  Shootfighting® will also enhance any other style of Martial Arts a student may already know. With its emphasis on complete transitions from stand-up to ground, it makes both the stand-up fighter or striker and the grappler or ground fighter stronger by eliminating the limitations of each.

What else do you teach at your studio?

We teach Kenpo karate and Shootfighting and also a variety of day-time general exercise/cardio classes such as Turbo Kick (cardio kickboxing), circuit training, Tai-chi, yoga and general bar-bell pump classes.  We also offer private lessons in all of the above for those who prefer not to train in group settings or want a combination of both private and group opportunities.

What is your favorite aspect of teaching?

(Doug) When someone has a desire to learn karate, I truly enjoy sharing my knowledge and skills.  That shared passion for the martial arts is what makes me realize I’m doing something good for the art, the student, my business and for my family.

(Patty) I love building the teacher/student relationship with the kids – especially the young ones.  To have them come into the dojo excited and smiling, eager to take their class, is the greatest.  I strive to incorporate exercise, fun and education during class and get great satisfaction as I watch them improve, learn and grow as people.

What advice do you have for anyone out there who is thinking about starting a karate studio?

(Doug) Have patience with yourself, your business and enjoy the process.  If you truly love the martial arts, then success will follow.

(Patty) To be successful in this business, you have to love what you do as well as love working with people.  Everyone has a unique story or situation – a reason for training at your dojo.  It is extremely rewarding and interesting – never a boring moment!  You also need to have a strong business sense – no matter how good you are at the martial arts or even at teaching, it is still a business and needs to be properly attended to.

Thank you Patty and Doug for all this valuable information!

Tiger & Dragon Boca offers programs for the entire family in an environment that is safe, fun and fosters new friendships. Lessons are offered for children as young as 3 years old. Don’t miss their 10 lbs in 10 weeks special!

If you would like to learn more about Tiger & Dragon Boca, please contact them:

Tiger & Dragon Boca
Hampton Square
19805 Hampton Drive – Boca Raton, FL 33434
561-926-1846

www.Tiger&DragonBoca.com

Are you on Twitter?

Yes! http://twitter.com/DebbieGlade

Is your book, Lilly Badilly, still discounted?

Yep. $16.95. Order it here.

Can I still get free shipping on your book on your website?

Sure you can. Use this code FBS1209 (case sensitive)

Where can I read reviews of your book?

Click here and read away!

What is your platform?

I believe in making reading and learning fun. Mastering (and loving) reading at a young age is the key to lifelong success. I am an advocate of geography literacy, as our nation falls far behind others in that category. Creative learning with laughter is far better than rote memorization and strict teaching. I post videos answering kids’ geography questions. The program is called Ask Lilly Badilly All About the World. I am a member of the National Council for Geographic Education and attended a fabulous conference in October in Puerto Rico. My company also just sponsored a HUGE travel writing and art contest. You won’t believe the talents of these young writers and artists!

Do you have an author program?

Yes, I visit schools and libraries regularly. Check it out.

Where can I read your comic strip, Smart Poodle?

I publish a comic strip every Friday on my blog. Click here.

Where do you get the ideas for your comic strip?

From my own life, my crazy imagination and from observing others.

Do you write anything other than children’s books?

I have been a travel writer for far longer than I care to admit. I used to write stacks of brochures and marketing materials for luxury cruise lines. Now I write travel-related articles and some weird entries on my blog and am the Geography Awareness Editor at Wandering Educators. On that site I write articles and review tons of travel-related books and guidebooks. It is a fabulous website! I am also a children’s book reviewer for LA Parent Magazine’s Good Reads with Ronna. Ronna’s the best!

What is your favorite aspect of being an author?

Without a doubt it is the interaction with kids. They say the most hilarious things! They inspire me and teach me every day. I have an 11 year-old fan who writes to me regularly, and she really makes it all worth while.

Can you tell me something readers may be surprised to learn about you?

I am very, very outgoing. But I spend most of my time alone writing, illustrating and working (gardening and housekeeping too), and I do not like being in noisy places with noisy people. Noise makes me nervous. (No one really asked me this question, but I thought it sounded like a good, mysterious question.)

Kevin Huo, Age 10

Before we ask Kevin some questions, here is a list of awards he has won:

Smart Poodle Publishing “I Love Costa Rica’s Rain Forest!” Writing and Art Contest – Kevin’s spectacular painting of Costa Rica and clever story landed him First Place in the 4th-5th Grade Category.

Kevin’s award-winning entry “Living Color: Costa Rican Rain Forest”

Go Green SamTram Bus Contest – When he was in third grade Kevin won the Grand Prize for this contest for his painting of a bus with an energy conservation theme, reducing the carbon in our atmosphere. His artwork was featured on some of the actual SamTram buses and on the bus passes.

Kevin’s spectacular art was displayed on Sam Tram buses

Filoli Art Contest – The San Mateo County Board of Education and the Filoli organization sponsored an art contest. Filoli is an historic country estate that is part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. For this contest, Kevin created a painting of the California countryside.

Action For Nature Young Eco Hero Awards- This nonprofit organization in San Francisco encourages young people to take personal action to better their environments, and to foster love and respect for nature. Kevin was honored for his environmental activism. Click here to see the pdf. Apply for the 2010 Action for Nature International Young Hero-Eco Awards 2010. Deadline is Feb 28, 2010.

Town of Atherton, CA Evironmental Program Contest – While in 2nd Grade, Kevin won the Grand prize for his title Green Kid Saves the World.

Kevin proudly displays his artwork and blue ribbon

Mangrove Art Project International Contest – This is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to the protection of the world’s mangrove forests ecosystems. Kevin was the only award winner in the US. He painted this outstanding picture of mangroves, which was included in the organization’s calendar.

Kevin’s award-winning painting of mangroves

Environmental Awareness Camp; Cultural Exchange – Kevin was interviewed by Michael Caduto, Director of Programs to be featured in his upcoming new book about young activist kids

Hip Housing Contest – Kevin won 2 awards for his participation in the San Mateo County Hip Housing Project. In 2007 his painting  “My home is my moving castle” depicted houses being saved from a hurricane after Katrina.  The pictures were included in Foster City, CA calendars.

Kevin won the Hip Housing Art Contest 2 years in a row

San Mateo County Board of Education – Kevin’s work was displayed at a solo exhibit at the school board office, after he was inspired to create 6 paintings of the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere. (This was not a contest, but rather an exhibit of his work)

Interview

How old were you when you started to show an interest in art?

I was about 5 years old when I started to draw. My Dad draws a lot because he is an architect. Watching him work really inspires me to draw and paint. He’s so good at what he does. My Mom is very creative too. She used to work as a stage manager in the theater.

Kevin with his parents, Kenneth and Gina Huo

I understand that you and your parents are very interested in “Green Living.” Can you tell us how your family got interested in that?

Sometimes my Dad designs Green Living houses and other buildings. He’s taught me a lot about preserving our environment. Our family loves nature too. Through a great organization called V-O-CAL we volunteered for a project to help clean up some nature trails.. We talk a lot about the environment at home and at school. Also participating in the Go Green SamTram contest got me even more interested in the environment. It is important to learn about keeping our world clean.

What is your favorite art medium?

When I first started to draw I used colored pencils only. Now that I’m a little bit older, I also use watercolors.

What inspires you to paint?

I love to look at drawings and paintings from famous artists, but I do not have a single favorite artist. There are so many good ones! I am also inspired by nature and really love learning about and painting animals of all kinds. I love to research animals and places and then combine my interest in nature with my art.

Do you draw from memory, use photos or get your perspective from real objects and scenes?

I usually look at pictures in books for ideas and to see what shapes things are, but I also draw from looking at real objects. Before I start, I always spend time imagining what the finished drawing will actually look like. I often finish the painting, and it looks just like I imagined it would.

How often do you paint/draw?

Whenever there is a contest announced that I am interested in, I paint. I also paint when I am inspired or just get a new idea. Sometimes I paint every week, but not always.

Have you had any professional lessons?

No I haven’t. I have only watched my Dad. He doesn’t just design houses and buildings. He also draws or paints sometimes, and has given me direction or has helped me with ideas.

What did you learn about Costa Rica that interested you most, while researching to write your essay for the Smart Poodle “I Love Costa Rica’s Rain Forest!” Contest?

I knew there were forests in Costa Rica, but I had no idea how many unusual plants and animals were there. I was fascinated to learn about alien possums, which I wrote about in my essay. And the number of different species of plants is amazing! I loved learning about the rain forest, and I cannot wait to visit Costa Rica to learn more.

Kevin, it is great t hear you say that, because the purpose of our contest was to encourage kids to learn more about Costa Rica and the plants and animals of the rain forest. What did you learn about mangroves for the Mangrove Art Contest you won? That painting is spectacular!

I visited mangroves in Taiwan and found it fascinating. I remember the sounds, the smells of the decaying plants and all the animals that live there. Both visiting and reading about mangroves really helped me understand it all. Doing that painting was a lot of fun.

Did you know that we have mangroves here in Florida too?

Yes, I knew that, though I have never been to Florida to see those mangroves. Some day I’d love to visit.

I realize you are only 10, but do you have any idea what you’d like to do for a career when you grow up?

I can imagine myself being an architect and designing green living houses.

That sounds perfect with your talents! Will you design a house for me?

Sure. I’d love to. (laughing)

What else do you enjoy doing other than art?

I love to read adventure stories like yours – Lilly Badilly – and others. I enjoy studying history, like I did with Paul Revere. I also like to travel. I’ve been to Taiwan, where my parents are from and also to Japan. But when I get older, I’d love to travel a lot more and see the world.

What advice do you have for other young students who want to become excellent at art?

The most important thing is to just try. There are so many things that can inspire you to paint; it does not have to be just one thing. Try imagining what the finished drawing will look like in your head before you get started. Don’t be afraid to draw or paint, because if it doesn’t work out the way you want, you can always start over. No one even has to see it. Just keep on trying, and you’ll eventually get it. Never, ever give up.

Kevin, thank you so much for sharing your artistic talents with us. You may be only 10 years old, but you have inspired so many children and adults with your artwork. You are living proof that having a passion can lead to great accomplishments – no matter what a person’s age may be. You also know how important it is to say “Thank You.” That will take you very far. You also remind us that the only way to win numerous contests is to enter them often! Please stay in touch with us and let us know about any future projects you have. Your future is looking as bright as your watercolor paintings!

Epilogue

We all know that “passion” is the main ingredient to success. It is achieved through incurable curiosity and unstoppable motivation. Passion is not something we have to wait for until adulthood; it can appear at an early age. Kevin’s love of art and nature are not forced. These are simply part of his soul. How inspiring for us all!

Young writer extraordinaire, Dallas Woodburn, shares her two books with us

Writer and entrepreneur, Dallas Woodburn, had her first book published at age ten, a collection of short stories called: There’s a Huge Pimple On My Nose. While attending college at The University of Southern California (USC), she had many articles published in major magazines and newspapers as well as another collection of short stories: 3 am: A Collection of Short Stories. She is living proof that you are never too young to start a writing career! Dallas also started www.WriteOnBooks.org, a fantastic website that publishes short stories, poems and essays written by young writers for young readers to enjoy. She holds a holiday book drive every year and even offers a summer writing camp for kids in Southern California. If this weren’t all enough, she also has a blog, where she shares all sorts of information about writing.

How old were you when you first became interested in writing?

It’s funny, but it’s difficult for me to remember a time before I loved to write! I learned to read when I was four, and I gobbled up books. Like many kids, I made up stories; I was compelled to write my stories down. I think this was largely due to the fact that my dad is a writer. Every night, my parents read me bedtime stories, and every morning I came downstairs to see my dad writing. As a result, I was very aware that someone had written the books I so loved to read. And I decided that I wanted to be someone who writes books for other people to enjoy.

What were your major influences at that time? Who inspired you to write?

My dad is my biggest fan and is the first person who reads my work – his feedback and encouragement are invaluable. I remember when I was little, he would let me type stories on his computer once he had filed his column for the day – how special that was! I am incredibly blessed that my parents and teachers were so encouraging of my love of writing from a very young age. Also, when I was in the first and second grade I was lucky to have an amazing teacher, Diane Sather, who encouraged my love for writing. I remember she had me read one of my stories to the class. I got such a burst of joy from sharing what I had written with others. It never crossed my mind to just write for myself. My high school English teacher, Tania Sussman, became an amazing mentor for me and I now think of her as one of my biggest inspirations and dearest friends.

How did you go about getting your collection of short stories published when you were only ten years old?

There’s a Huge Pimple on My Nose is proof that with a lot of hard work, a lot of perseverance – and, yes, a lot of support, too – a small idea can snowball into something bigger than you ever dreamed. My snowball began as a snowflake when I applied for and received a $50 grant from my elementary school to write, publish and sell a collection of my short stories and poems — but I think here’s what set my proposal apart: I would use the profits to repay my grant, so the school could offer an extra one the following year. My first printing, done at a Kinkos copy shop, was modest: twenty-five staple-bound forty-page books. Actually, they were more like thick pamphlets, but no matter – to me, they were books, my books, the most beautiful books I had ever laid eyes upon. J.K. Rowling wasn’t more proud of her first Harry Potter hardcover edition.

My fellow students and teachers, bless them, acted as if Pimple was at the top of the New York Times Best-Seller List. The first twenty-five copies promptly sold in a couple of days. Can you imagine what a turbo-boost this was to a fifth-grader’s self-esteem? I was pursuing my dream, but I wasn’t pursuing it alone – my family and friends and teachers were right there with me. So I went back to Kinkos, ordered twenty-five more books – and soon sold all those as well. After three more trips to Kinkos, where the workers now knew me by name, I searched out a publishing business and ordered a few hundred glossy-covered, glue-bound, professional-looking Pimples. My little forty-page dream evolved from a snowball into a blizzard, with newspaper and radio interviews; appearances at literacy events all around California; even a “Dallas Woodburn Day” at the Santa Barbara Book Fair. I still have to pinch myself, but Pimple has sold more than 2,200 copies and I repaid two school grants.

Looking back, I was fortunate to dive into this career at such an early age because I wasn’t afraid or self-conscious about my writing. I think as we get older, we tend to lose that child-like pride and confidence in ourselves and our work. I published my first book when I was in fifth grade. I wasn’t afraid of rejection, so I sent my book out to anyone and everyone I thought might read it. Sure, I didn’t hear back from a lot of them. But I did score reviews in The Los Angeles Times, Girls’ Life magazine, Cosmo Girl magazine, and others.

2,200 copies sold is indeed impresssive! You made a really great point here, Dallas – You were not afraid to try! I think that’s what stops most people from success in whatever they do. The fear of rejection and criticism.

Yes, many terrific doors were opened for me because I wasn’t afraid to hear the word “no.”

What kind of articles have you written for magazines and newspapers?

I write articles for magazines, newspapers and websites — everything from Family Circle to The Los Angeles Times to Writer’s Digest. I’m also a monthly columnist for GradtoGreat.com, TweenParent.com, and Listen magazine. I love profiling inspiring young people – like your daughter, Rachel (article to be published soon) – and helping spread the word about the amazing things kids and teens are doing. I think often the media focuses on negative stereotypes about teenagers, which is unfortunate because there are so many young people who are doing phenomenal, selfless things to better the world.

That is so true! I am so glad there are people out there like you to share positive stories with the world. How did you get your first article published?

One of my favorite things about being a writer is that even your most embarrassing moments in life are worth something because they are great writing material! My first article was for Justine magazine, at that time a newly established publication for teens, and it was a true-life account about how I was “sweet sixteen” and had never been kissed. The editors loved my honest voice and the piece resonated with a lot of readers. I have always tried to see my young age as an advantage in my writing, rather than a disadvantage, because it allows me to write about things like teen issues with a great deal of authenticity. As a teen writing for a teen publication, I wrote an article that I would want to read! I would encourage other writers to put themselves in this mindset – what insights and lessons does your particular background and experiences give you? How can you use these traits as an advantage in your writing life?

In addition to a love of writing, you and I have something in common. We both travel around our communities to speak to students at schools about writing and publishing. What is the main message you hope to get across to the students you speak to?

I hope that students come away from my talk inspired and motivated, knowing that they really can accomplish their dreams! I tell students that the lessons I have learned through writing can apply to whatever their own passions may be – sports, music, dance, art. Everyone at some point has to deal with rejection and discouragement. Everyone is going to face setbacks. Everyone is going to reach a crossroads where they might think of giving up. When they reach that point, I want students to realize that they are not alone – and the important thing is persevering through the hard times. Don’t ever let anyone discourage you from pursuing your dreams!!

Do you find this rewarding?

Incredibly rewarding! It is an activity that gives me great joy and fulfillment. Whenever I am feeling discouraged or creatively drained, going to schools and speaking to students inevitably recharges my batteries and gets me excited about writing again. So much energy and enthusiasm! It’s contagious!

I notice on your blog that you write about receiving rejection letters for your writing. Can you explain that?

Rejection is also something that everyone has to deal with. As a writer, I joke that I could wallpaper all four of my bedroom walls with all the rejection letters I have received from editors! The important thing is not to take it personally. For whatever reason, you or your writing just wasn’t a right fit for that publication at this specific time. That doesn’t mean that they won’t love the next piece you send to them! When I get a rejection letter, I first read the comments to see if there is any advice I can glean or ways I can improve for next time. Then, I submit my story or essay or article somewhere else.

It is so important for people out there to know about rejection, because the general public usually only hears about the success part of a person’s career. That makes us all think it is much easier than it really is!

Yes! It took me more than a year to find my literary agent. A year of rejection, rejection, rejection – until finally, I found my perfect match. My agent understands my writing and has faith in my career. I just had to have the patience and perseverance to find her!

Tell us about WriteOnBooks.org. What was your main goal when you started this website?

With my website I wanted to create a place where young writers can go to find resources and inspiration, as well as connect with other young writers. I started the site to coincide with my latest endeavor, which is starting a publishing company, Write On! Books, that publishes anthologies of stories, poems and essays written by young writers for young audiences. The goal is to give young people a much-needed outlet for expression and connection, while also hopefully inspiring a love of reading in youth. As a young writer, sometimes it can be hard to get people to take you seriously and get editors to even read your work. I believe that young people have a voice and opinions and a life perspective that just as important as the voice of adults. Moreover, there are so many books for young people that are written by adults – but who knows what its like to be a kid better than a kid herself? I am eager to read submissions from young writers — they can e-mail me at dallaswoodburn@aol.com or visit my website www.writeonbooks.org for more information.

Part of your website is Write On! For Literacy. What does that entail?

In a recent national assessment conducted by the National Literacy Institute (NLI) of fourth-grade students, 13% reported never reading for fun on their own; an additional 16% only read for fun once a month. I think this is a travesty. Reading has brought me so much excitement, confidence and has opened so many doors for me, including a tremendous college education and a career that I love.

Writing and reading have given me so much fulfillment and self-confidence, and opportunities that I never would have been given otherwise – like traveling to New York to be a guest on The CBS Early Show when I was writing a column for Family Circle magazine. I feel other kids should be exposed to writing and reading as well, to encourage their self-confidence and self-expression. When I published my first book, There’s a Huge Pimple On My Nose, in fifth grade, the teachers in my elementary school asked me to talk to their classes, and then I spoke to other classes throughout the school district. I still enjoy talking to kids about writing. At the beginning of my talk, I ask the kids if any of them are interested in writing, and usually a few shy hands raise. In contrast, at the end of my talk when I ask the same question, a lot more hands raise. The students told me they didn’t know that kids could be writers. They thought they had to wait until they were adults.

I started “Write On! For Literacy” in 2001 to encourage kids to discover joy, confidence, a means of self-expression and connection to others through reading and writing. My website www.writeonbooks.org features writing contests, book reviews, fun writing prompts, and more. I also hold an annual Holiday Book Drive to collect and distribute new books to disadvantaged kids — more than 10,000 books have been donated to date.

If one of our readers wants to sponsor a local holiday book drive for your organization, what should he or she do?

That would be wonderful! Write On! would love for you to start a Holiday Book Drive chapter in your area! It can be as large or small of an effort as you have the time and energy for. Many chapter leaders begin book drives by inviting friends and relatives to get involved, and then broaden their efforts to area schools, churches and community groups. I have found in my own efforts that often people in the community want to get involved with literacy endeavors, but aren’t sure how — when they hear about the Holiday Book Drive, they are very excited to help out.

If you are interested in starting a Holiday Book Drive chapter, please e-mail me at dallaswoodburn@aol.com and I will add you to our chapter list. I can also send you flyers to help spread the word and get the ball rolling!

Wow, Dallas. You sure have a lot of energy! What are you most proud of thus far in your writing career?

It is always fantastic to get fan letters and e-mails from readers who have enjoyed my work. Nothing makes my day more than a sweet note from someone who has been touched by my writing!

I think I am most proud, however, of Write On! and my literacy endeavors. When a boy tells me that he believes in his own potential after hearing my talk, or a girl tells me that she wants to be a writer now after visiting my website, it makes me feel like I am making a positive difference, and that is something to truly be proud of.

What are your hopes for the future of your writing career?

I truly hope to make a positive difference in the lives of others through my writing and literacy endeavors. I believe writing can connect people and foster understanding, and that is what I hope to do in my career.

I have started to write another novel, which I’m in the early exciting stages of – writing and waiting to see where the story will lead me. I’m also a staff writer for the websites GradtoGreat.com, TweenParent.com, and Listen magazine, a publication that encourages kids to make smart choices and stay away from drugs and alcohol. I’m having fun working on play scripts and submitting them to festivals. I’m also the coordinator for the Young Writers Program of the Santa Barbara Writers Conference – I really enjoy interacting with other young writers, and I hope to expand the program and continue to be involved with the conference for many years to come.

What advice do you have for children (or adults) who are considering a career as a writer?

Enjoy the process! As John Wooden says, “The journey is better than the inn.” In addition, publishing my books has taught me not to be afraid to take risks, and to take the initiative when you have an idea and make it happen yourself rather than letting fear and doubt make you wait. Because, why wait? Take small steps towards your dreams, and small steps can snowball into amazingly big opportunities!

Thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us, Dallas. Your accomplishments and attitude are an inspiration, not only for young people, but also for the countless adults out there who are afraid to take risks. You are living proof that one is never too young to take action and make a difference. Please stay in touch with Smart Poodle Publishing and let us know about your future publishing endeavors.

To reach Dallas Woodburn, visit her website by clicking here or email her at dallaswoodburn@aol.com.