If an editor reads your manuscript and knows it is great, she also knows that you have many more stories inside of you waiting to be born. Ideas are a dime a dozen, nothing is original. It's how you treat your idea that counts. My friend is a great artist. Unless you are also a professional illustrator, art accompanying a manuscript may discourage an editor from publishing your story.
Editors prefer to pair unknown writers with known illustrators.
I strive to entertain, enlighten, and entice readers to return to my books and read them many times. To do this I must approach the story on many levels, both in terms of concept and design. I think that if a picture book appeals to both the child and the adult, the reader's appreciation of the book is prolonged. Here's a tip. Study your favorite author.