Write. Click. Scrapbook.

Welcome, May!

Hello May! We are so happy to welcome a new month and a new gallery! This month we look forward to our final month of weekly blogging. We were be learning from Francine, Amy, Christine, as well as have help from our team preparing for Father's Day. We can't wait!

A new month brings a new gallery.

May is the month we celebrate the Everyday. Those things that make up our every day lives. The little things that might get lost in our scrapbooks and our memories. Our schedules, our routine. Project Life is a wonderful way to capture the details of our lives. And our scrapbooks are a great place to record some of the details as well. Our team has put together some amazing layouts. We just know you are going to be inspired to create some just like them!

As a reminder, if you would like to see the layouts a bit bigger and with the journaling listed, please hop on over to the gallery album.

Without further ado, may we present... Everydaily III!

The Family that Types Together | Aliza Deutsch

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned paper (Jenni Bowlin, Pebbles, Elle’s Studio, Simple Stories, Cocoa Daisy, Webster’s Pages) + buttons (Fancy Pants) + thickers (American Crafts) + labels (Chic Tags) + stickers (My Mind’s Eye, Glitz Designs, Simple Stories) + fonts (Linenstroke)

A Note from Aliza
This layout lists a couple of random reflections about technology and our everyday lives.

May Fun Fact
I am currently obsessed with finding inexpensive rock climbing shoes.

 

Love To Run | Christine Newman

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts, Wausau, Bazzill) + patterned paper (American Crafts) + mask, mist (Studio Calico) + die cuts (American Crafts) + stickers (American Crafts) + paper clip (Freckled Fawn) + stamp (American Crafts) + wood veneers (Studio Calico, Freckled Fawn) + ink (Prima, Palette) + pen (Sharpie, Sakura) + twine (The Twinery) + digital cutter (Silhouette America)

A Note from Christine
When it comes to everyday type of photos, it doesn't get more everyday than this. I exercise almost daily and feel weird if I don't run or workout for a couple of days. I love to eat so working out is a necessity. It also helps me feel less stressed and sleep better.

May Fun Fact
When I was little, I collected scratch-n-sniff stickers. I think I still have some old ones in a box somewhere. I want them to bring those back!

 

Everyday | Celeste Smith

12 x 12 | materials kits (Life's a Ride by Valorie Wibbens, Dayplanner by One Little Bird at The Lilypad) + washi tape (Tape It! by Pink Reptile Designs at The Lilypad) + journaling cards (Happy Note Cards by Gina Miller at the Lilypad) + word art (Life 365 by Karla Dudley at Pixels & Co.) + template(Simple Scrapper Premium Membership)+ font (Underwood Champion)

A Note from Celeste
When I thought about everyday this year, I just couldn't get past the fact that our daily life includes music. My son, Adam, plays the saxophone almost every day either practicing, attending rehearsals or performing. I added the clock stamp and washi to symbolize the time he spends. The musical staff is just clip art that I clipped some digital paper to.

May Fun Fact
My niece is a Bat Mitzvah this month. I'm looking forward to the family gathering together and hearing her give her Torah portion. It is sure to be a special day.

 

Every Day | Valerie O'Neall

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Crate Paper) + tags (Elle's Studio and American Crafts/Dear Lizzy) + stickers (Crate Paper) + alpha stamps (Studio Calico/Hero Arts) + other stamps (Ormolu) + enamel dots (My Mind's Eye) + wood veneer (Studio Calico) + fabric brad (American Crafts) + ink (Memento) + other (Silhouette SD & date stamp) + font (Rockwell)

A Note from Valerie
This layout came together really fast for me this month. I love using my Silhouette for title work (font is Rockwell). These photos are from 2011, but can you believe two years later, this train set is still what my son plays with everyday (best. gift. ever.)!?

May Fun Fact
I was completely anti-texting and anti-smartphone for such a long time. I've only had a plan with texting for two years now, which is so unusual for someone of my generation, but I am now the proud owner of an iPhone.

The Reader | Katie Ehmann

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned paper (Kesi’art) + brads (Crate Paper) + thickers (Amy Tamgerine) + tag (Dear Lizzy) + stickers (Amy Tangerine, Dear Lizzy) + die cut (Silhouette Cameo, Studio Calico + stamp (Amy Tangerine) + ink (Versafine)

A Note from Katie
This layout perfectly captures the everyday of my oldest daughter, who is in Kindergarten and is learning to read! I sewed some leftover letters in a random pattern to mirror the letters on the background paper.

May Fun Fact
Every time I play the lotto (which isn’t very often) I seriously think I am going to win, and am crushed with disappointment when I don’t. Some may think that I’m foolish, but I just think I’m an optimist!

 

The 4 O'Clock Stare Down | Diane Payne

12 x 12 |materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Echo Park, Basic Grey, Simple Stories) + buttons (A Flair for Buttons) + thickers (Ameican Crafts) + labels (My Mind's Eye, Twine & Ink) + stickers (American Crafts, Pebbles, Basic Grey) + pen (American Crafts)

A Note from Diane
At first I was unsure what to document as a daily activity. When the dogs were anxiously waiting to be fed one evening it dawned on me that I should record their daily ritual.

May Fun Fact
In just a few short weeks school will be out. I'm looking forward to a little less structure and sleeping in on the weekends.

 

InstaLife | Lisa Ottosson

8.5 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Backside of Cocoa Daisy March Kit Ad card, Jenni Bowlin) + brad (Dear Lizzy) + flower (homemade) + stickers (Scrapworks, American Crafts)

A Note from Lisa
When I prepared for this month´s theme I was a bit puzzled about what I would do. As I am doing Project Life every week I record our everyday lives in there. Then it hit me! What is the one thing that I use to catch photos of our everyday? Instagram. Right now we Instagram the heck out of our lives. In my journaling I talk about how we say to each other several times a day: That is going straight up on Instagram!

March Fun Fact
I have to remind myself to use my DSLR these days! I am so happy with my iPhone camera!

Errands with Boys | Jennifer Larson

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill) + patterned paper (Cosmo Cricket, Glitz, Basic Grey, Studio Calico) + buttons (Company Name) + thickers (American Crafts) + tape (Glitz) + enamel dots (My Mind’s Eye) + stickers (Basic Grey, Studio Calico, My Mind’s Eye) + ink (Jenni Bowlin) + chipboard (My Mind’s Eye) + photo frame (Basic Grey) + die cuts (Studio Calico) + twine (Martha Stewart) + fonts (Times New Roman)

A Note from Jennifer Larson
Since my husband travels periodically for work, I become a single parent at certain times of the year, shepherding my boys solo to their various activities. This month I examine those various activities and the fact that my schedule circulates are them. Though it’s a time crunch, I love the time in the car with my boys, particularly our conversations. To remember these errands and the accompanying stress and joy, I printed various photos I took of these errands with boys and put them together on one page.

May Fun Fact
Every Mother’s Day, we go out to eat Chinese food.

 

Everyday Moments|Amy Coose

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill) + patterned paper (American Crafts, Pebbles, Basic Grey) + flair (Greatest View) + wood veneer (Freckled Fawn) + tags (Chic Tags) + enamel dots (My Mind's Eye) + mist (Heidi Swapp) + pen (American Crafts)

A Note from Amy
This layout really shows my everyday, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Journaling
No matter how hard it is having a baby again, there is nothing I'd rather be doing each day than this.

May Fun Fact
I love these pictures of me getting some good snuggle time. It makes me so happy that I had the chance to experience baby snuggles again. 

 

Rise and Shine | Celeste Smith

12 x 12 | materials kit (Rise & Shine by One Little Bird at the Lilypad) + template ( Plant Your Story: Journaled {volume two} by Sara Gleason at the Lilypad) + font (Century Gothic)

A Note from Celeste
My morning routine just wouldn't be the same without a cup of tea or coffee. Even though I get up in the dark, I make sure that I have an extra ten or fifteen minutes to sit and enjoy it. Notice the floral elements, as a mom to boys, I get my flower fix whenever I can!

 

Everyday | Jennie McGarvey

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Lily Bee Design, Studio Calico) + stickers (Studio Calico) + alphabet stickers (American Crafts) + labels, tags (Chic Tags) + pen (American Crafts) + fonts

A Note from Jennie
My layout has been a while in the making. My son has been wearing exclusively Angels (his favorite baseball team and baseball is his favorite sport) shirts for a while now (two years or so?) and I wanted to make sure I captured that before he moved onto something else or varied his wardrobe.

May Fun Fact
I rarely use the computer for journaling. I prefer to handwrite my journaling, but will occasionally use a typewriter if the project calls for it.

 

Have a Good Day | Deb Duty

12 x 12 | materials) patterned paper (Simple Stories, Teresa Collins, Cosmo Cricket, Fancy Pants, Webster's Pages, American Crafts) + flair (Hello Forever) + chipboard star (Pink Paislee) + alpha (Heidi Swapp, Little Yellow Bicycle, Glitz Design) + labels (Studio Calico) + ink (Hero Arts) + stickers (Studio Calico, Basic Grey) + stamps (Studio Calico) + sequins (Studio Calico) + resin stars (Freckled Fawn) + metal clip (Prima) + cork arrow (Studio Calico) + inventory tag (vintage) + pen (Micron)

A Note from Deb
I took this photo as my boys walked out the door for school while I held on to our dog so she couldn't escape just like I do every morning. I love capturing these simple moments that seem so ordinary at the time, but will one day be just a memory.

May Fun Fact
I generally don't like any scary or intense TV shows, but after my boys introduced me to The Walking Dead, it has become my new favorite. I still can't believe I actually enjoy a show about zombies, but it's just so good!

 

A-Okay | Kelly Jeppson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Elle’s Studio) + paper elements (BasicGrey) + alpha stickers (Doodlebug Designs) + burlap + washi tape (7Gypsies) + big brad (Studio G)

A Note from Kelly
Life for a mom can be pretty mundane, but at the end of the day, I’m always happy to see the smiling faces of my three kids. It makes it all worth it!

Journaling
Today I might…make breakfast, pack lunches, find homework, socks, shoes, lost toys. Drive to school, to scouts, to soccer, to the store. Eat standing up. Do laundry. Check email. Vacuum. Answer phone calls. Bandage scrapes. Walk the dog. Clean up messes. Make dinner. Stay up late reading. But it’s all a-okay with me, because I get to be your mom.

May Fun Fact
Before we had children, I convinced my husband to get me a Mother’s Day gift because I would be the mother of his future children! Pretty smart, I must say.

 

The Best Part | Sarah Pendergrast

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (October Afternoon, Crate Paper, American Crafts) + epoxy dots (My Minds Eye) + stickers (American Crafts) + letter stickers (October Afternoon, Basic Grey, Heidi Swapp) + labels (Basic Grey) + washi (Freckled Fawn) + pen (American Crafts)

A Note from Sarah
I snapped this shot one day after school, when the two of them were particularly happy to see each other. This photo reminded me that that no matter how glad I am that they are in school during the day, the best part of my day is the after school pickup.

Journaling
No question, one of the best parts of my day is picking you guys up after school. It’s a huge perk of being a stay-at-home parent. I get to hear about recess, see test scores you’re proud of, and watch you hang out with your friends.

May Fun Fact
I’m super excited to start a new volunteer job this month as an urban nature monitor. I will get to count turtles, dragonflies, butterflies etc. that reside right in the middle of our city.

Little Moments | Francine Clouden

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Tim & Beck, American Crafts, Crate Paper, Studio Calico) + chipboard letter stickers (American Crafts) + candy buttons (Studio Calico, BasicGrey) + spray ink (Studio Calico) + clear stamps (Studio Calico, Hero Arts) + rub-ons (American Crafts) + baker's twine + stamping ink

A Note from Francine
Baking with Kieran has become an every day activity because he really loves to bake. We now bake his snacks together most weeks. 
A technique tip: that pink garland under the title was made using letter Vs from my sheet of chipboard letter stickers.

May Fun Fact
After six months in the new house I think it's time to reorganise my scrapbook room!

 

Almost Everyday | Paula Gilarde

12 x 12 | materials LayerWorks No. 175 (Studio DD) + Stay Here kit (Katie Pertiet) + I Heart Stories Wordart Brushes (Ali Edwards) + Wooden Stickers Alpha No 1 (Katie Pertiet) + Painted Text No. 1 (Katie Pertiet) + Instamatic Frames No 3 (Katie Pertiet)

A Note from Paula
Or at least everyday we can, we try to walk the 30 minutes to school. Molly loves it!

 

Everyday He: | Amy Sorensen

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (My Mind's Eye) + alpha stickers (American Crafts, Jillibean Soup, Echo Park, Teresa Collins, Bella Blvd, My Mind's Eye) + die cuts (Silhouette) + circle punch + quilt star punch (Fiskars) + fonts (Satellite, The Only Exception)

A Note from Amy
The real story about this layout is something on the back. To get all of the daily details, I wrote a list of questions for my son Nathan, and asked him to answer them. When I found the paper (he left it under my keyboard and went to bed), I discovered that he'd written his answers AND a sweet note to me. The combination of his handwriting and his note was just so...NATHAN to me. I made a little pocket for the back and stuck the note in it with my response. I do a lot of hidden things on the backs of my layouts. Who knows if anyone will ever see them? But I like knowing they are there.
To make the little banners that back the words "goes" and "to," I punched with the quilt star punch, and then trimmed off the two vertical strips. Voila: instant banner!

May Fun Fact
My oldest kid is graduating from high school this month. HOW did I get to this phase of my life?!?!

 

Hanging Out | Marnie Flores

8.5 x 8.5 | materials patterned paper (Crystal Wilkerson) + fonts (AmerType, Mathlete, CK Jot)

A Note from Marnie
Santa brought a bar and a beam to my house this past December. The bar sits in our front room and welcomes everyone who visits. And my monkeys love it. (One of them averages 3 hours a day on her bar!) I can't even begin to explain how breathtaking it is to watch them do their tricks. They amaze me!!

May Fun Fact
My kids get out of school in May for the first time ever. I grew up going to school until the final Friday in June. (I like to joke that I went to school for an extra year: 1 month x 12 years...) I can't believe that in less than a month we will be on vay-cay-tion!!

 

That's it! We hope you enjoy the gallery! Please leave us word and tell us what caught your eye!

Welcome, April!

April is here and we're not fooling! We are so very excited that a new month is upon us. This month we are looking forward to Kelly, Lisa, Teacher's Appreciation preparation and Mother's Day preparation. We hope to inspire your spring pages, and help you get ready for the holidays ahead of us.

 

The first also brings us a

This month we are celebrating shapes: circles, triangles, hexagons, squares, stars. Whether the graphic elements be big or small, our pages love them all. Here is a look at our gallery as a whole!

And here are the pages one by one. Please click on over to the gallery to see them bigger, and read the journaling! 

That's it! We hope you have found a layout or two, or twenty, that will appeal to you and your scrapbooks! We look forward to seeing your "inspired by" layouts! And please let us know if you like the new cards.

Welcome, March!

March is here! In like a lion? We're not sure how Mother Nature is greeting you, but we here at write. click. scrapbook. are certainly roaring in a new month with a brand new gallery and a promise of an unforgettable month ahead.

This month marks our third annual March Mini Madness! As we turn our sights and talents to the ever delightful, always beloved mini-album. Over the next four weeks, we will show you 16 new albums, and have four amazing giveaways. We can't wait to inspire you with new prompts and designs.

 

But before we get there, we have a new gallery to show you! With 20 mini-albums to choose from, hopefully you will find one that you want to create! Here are the covers. Hop on over to the gallery album so you can see the interior pages and read the journaling! Enjoy!

 

A Home is Built with Love Alone | Diane Payne

house shaped | materials patterned paper (American Crafts) + embellishments (American Crafts) + stickers (American Crafts)

A Note from Diane
This shape of the mini made me think of the quote about homes being about family and my idea took off from there. I used everyday photos of us together as a family at home from multiple years.

March Fun Fact
I started redecorating my home in January and now I have unfinished projects in every room of my house.

 

Picture Day | Aliza Deutsch

5 x 7 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Little Yellow Bicycle, Jillibean Soup, Echo Park, Pink Paislee) + embellishments (Studio Calico, My Mind’s Eye, Fancy Pants, Ormolu) + stickers (October Afternoon, 7Gypsies, American Crafts)

A Note from Aliza
This book has been in my head for years and years. It is written as a children’s story to be read aloud (I’ve never really done that before!). Every year, at my preschool, at least one child cries on picture day; terrified by a complete stranger coming in telling them what to do, how to sit, and to smile, smile, smile. And then I am always reminded about my son’s first picture day, and I think to myself, I should make a book about that so the children know what to expect on picture day. The timing has worked out perfectly, because picture day is this month.

March Fun Fact
My sister is coming to visit this month! I am so excited!

 

Me & You Mini Album | Katie Ehmann

8 x 8 | materials patterned paper (Crate Paper) + embellishments (Crate Paper) + stickers (Crate Paper)

A Note from Katie
This mini was so fun to make! I used Crate Paper’s Fourteen collection to make a mini focused on the relationship between my husband and me before our girls were born. We did a lot of traveling before we had kids, so many of the photos are from our various trips.

March Fun Fact
For the first time since having children, my husband and I are going on a special trip at the end of this month to celebrate his 40th birthday! I can’t wait to scrapbook it! Oh, and I’m kinda looking forward to the actual vacation, too!

 

Hello World Bucket Mini | Celeste Smith

5.5 x 8.5 | materials kit (Wanderer by Zoe Pearn at Sweet Shoppe Designs) + template (Simple Scrapper Insta Album) + labels (Mega Labels by Amy Wolff at The Lilypad) + font (Underwood Champion)

A Note from Celeste
There are so many places I would love to go and see. I thought I'd document a few in a little mini-album. There are so many travel themed digital kits and since we rarely travel I never get to use them!

March Fun Fact
I'm going on an all out organizing bonanza this month - all drawers, closets and even the basement will be gone through! Wish me luck!

 

Sunshine is My Drug | Lisa Ottosson

3.5 x 3 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts, One Little Bird+Paislee Press) + embellishments (National Ticket Co) + stickers (TGR)

A Note from Lisa Ottosson
This minibook is quite tiny only 3.5 x 3 and holds a few of my Instagram photos that have the hashtag #sunshineismydrug. I made the cover with cardboard scraps I had laying around my room and the pages are hold together with the washitape that you can see on each page.

March Fun Fact
Sunshine is in fact my drug! Last summer we didn't have as much sunshine as usual and I can feel it in my whole body!

 

Early Spring | Jennifer Larson

4 x 4 | materials mini album (Maya Road) + patterned paper (October Afternoon, Pebbles) + embellishments (American Crafts, Crate Paper, Studio Calico, October Afternoon, KaiserCraft) + stickers (October Afternoon, Echo Park, Studio Calico) + pens (Copic, American Crafts) + adhesive (Scotch Dot Adhesive Roller, Glue Dots, Xyron, Tombow MonoGlue)

A Note from Jennifer Larson
I took these pictures last year with the idea of putting them into a mini album celebrating the early spring in Minnesota, which is so late in coming but is so sweet when it arrives. I liked this mini album for its canvas, which I though added some nice, rough texture, sort of like the rough texture of early spring. Now in the coldest parts of winter, I’ve got a mini album I can pull out and page through to sustain me until spring comes for real.

March Fun Fact
I am an avid gardener, something I inherited from my mother, a master gardener. I have five perennial beds in the back yard filled with flowers and more floral borders all around my house.

 

Love Notes | Christine Newman

4 x 6 | materials mini album base (Evalicious) + cardstock (American Crafts, Wausau) + patterned paper (My Mind's Eye) + embellishments (Evalicious, Simple Stories, American Crafts, Freckled Fawn, Studio Calico, Pink Paislee) + stamps (Evalicious, Studio Calico, American Crafts) + ink (Tsukineko, Prima, Ranger) + twine (The Twinery) + digital graphics (One Little Bird Designs) + die-cut machine (Silhouette America)

A Note from Christine
This mini album came together in spurts. I created some pages in January and some in February. Working in spurts here and there for a couple of hours helps me feel like I'm making progress. I really love 4x6 mini albums because I can include some 4x6 photos printed out as is.

March Fun Fact
March is my birthday month! It just so happens that my annual bonus at work is paid out every March on my birthday week. It's almost as if they did this just for me as a birthday gift! :)

 

Family Love | Amy Coose

4 x 6 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Dear Lizzy, American Crafts) + embellishments (Chic Tags, Freckled Fawn) + stickers (Jenni Bowlin) + Silhouette Cameo

A Note from Amy
When I came up with the idea of a mini about our love, I didn't realize how mushy it would get. I love how it turned out, mush and all.

March Fun Fact
I usually don't like doing mini albums, but creating this album was so much fun that I can't wait to make another one! 

 

Utah Vacation | Deb Duty

6 x 6 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, American Crafts) + embellishments (Studio Calico, Heidi Swapp, A Flair for Buttons, My Mind’s Eye, Freckled Fawn) + stickers (Studio Calico) + alpha stickers (Studio Calico, American Crafts, Cosmo Cricket, October Afternoon, Basic Grey) + cardstock (American Crafts)

A Note from Deb Duty
I made a mini book with my favorite photos from our 2012 vacation to Utah. The mini is 6”x6” and all photos were printed at 3.75”x3” except for the full page photos which were printed at 5.75”x5.75” so that I could cut them out with a border.

March Fun Fact
Our favorite kind of vacation is one where there’s lots of beautiful scenery and hiking! Every U.S. National Park I’ve been to has been amazing! This mini is about visiting Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park.

 

Wednesday 16.01.13 | Francine Clouden

4 x 4 | materials patterned paper (Making Memories, BasciGrey) + letter stickers (BasicGrey) + chipboard stickers (Studio Calico) + stamps (American Crafts) +chipboard + graph paper tape + vellum + binder rings

A Note from Francine
I made this mini from scratch to highlight the Instagram photos I took of a day at home with Kieran back in January. I printed my photos out at 4x4, and cut chipboard pieces in the same size for the covers and pages. Then I "wallpapered" the patterned papers and photos to the chipboard. To add my journaling, I copied my captions directly from Instagram, printed them out onto vellum, which I then cut into strips and stuck on top the washi tape. I then added additional phrases with the stamp. To complete the book, I punched holes and used binder rings to hold them together. This is a great project for using up scraps and other items in your stash.

Since it is also a sturdy little book with mostly flat embellishments, it's very child friendly! :)

March Fun Fact
I don't much like my handwriting but I use it on 95% of my scrapbooking projects anyway!

 

Tommy Q&A | Paula Gilarde

6 x 6 | materials board book (Unknonw) + patterned paper (Jillibean) + stickers (Jillibean Soup ) + diecuts (Jillibean Soup) + stencils (Crafters Workshop) + digital labels (Katie Pertiet) + digital frames (Katie Pertiet)

A Note from Paula
I've had this blank board book in my stash for ever and decided to finally use it. I asked my son a series of random questions like: 
What would you eat every day if mom let you?
What is the first thing you show your friends when they come to your house? 

It will be fun to look back in a few years to see how his answers will have changed.

March Fun Fact
I grew up in Ireland so I like to celebrate St. Patrick's day with authentic Irish food - lots of potatoes. I've never had corned beef - it's not something we eat in Ireland.

 

Treehouse Mini | Valerie O'Neall

6 x 6 | materials cardstock (GMund Savanna (white), Wausau Royal Fiber (kraft)) + patterned paper (American Crafts, Elle's Studio & BasicGrey) + border stickers (Sassafras) + fabric brads (Basic Grey) + enamel dots (My Mind's Eye) + alpha stickers (October Afternoon) mist (Studio Calico) + Silhouette SD (font: Danger) + other (washi, shipping tags, tiny attacher, baker's twine)

A Note from Valerie
Just a fun, simple little album about the treehouse my husband built for our son this past summer. The white cardstock has a wood grain texture and I love it for this album.

March Fun Fact
Currently slightly obsessed with dipping sweet potato fries in maple syrup. Yum!

 

Play Ball | Jennie McGarvey

8.5 x 6 | materials patterned paper (Echo Park Paper, October Afternoon, American Crafts) + washi tape (Glitz, Freckled Fawn) + wood veneer (Studio Calico, Sodalicious) + mask (Studio Calico) + mist (Studio Calico) + enamel dots (My Mind's Eye) + chipboard (Jenni Bowlin) + tag (Ormolu) + flair (A Flair For Buttons) + alphas (Basic Grey, Echo Park Paper)

A Note from Jennie
This mini album is about my son's All Star baseball season from Summer 2012. I had been wanting to put something together with these instagrams but I hadn't gotten around to it until now. I'm actually pretty glad I didn't because I love how this came together!

March Fun Fact
I am constantly cold for 5-6 months of the year. My ideal temperature is around 83 degrees!

 

Run | Erin Sweeney

8 x 8 | materials patterned paper (Amy Tangerine/American Crafts, Studio Calico) + alphabet stickers (American Crafts)

A Note From Erin
I’m sharing the cover and the two most recent spreads from my race mini album. I’m keeping this album very simple, mainly because I have to – there’s no room for embellishments! I’ve attached the race bibs so that I can slip a tag behind them that includes race time, place, and other information about the race. I’ve kept the backgrounds all neutral since the race photo collages contain so many colors. I’m planning on giving the spreads a pop of color with the title (under the photo) and the race info (under the race bibs). I did the photo collages in PSE and they are 6x6 on 8x8 pages. Since I’m putting the album together in chronological order and the order will never change, all spreads use both sides of the paper except the title page since that one will always be moved as I add a new race. This saves paper as well allows me to use both sides of patterned paper I like. 
I’m also including any extras in the album. My sister and I were in the local paper and I’ve included that. I also have other memorabilia I’ll include in page protectors and pockets. 

March Fun Face
A local diner is open on Friday nights for Fish Fry only during Lent…which means my family will be eating out each Friday until Easter! It’s that good!

 

What Dads Do Best | Kelly Jeppson

5 x 7 | materials patterned paper (My Mind’s Eye) + border stickers, alpha stickers (Doodlebug Design, Inc.) + alphabet stencils + twine (The Twinery)

A Note from Kelly
As I was looking through my photos, I found a bunch of great shots of my husband with the kids. I thought I would put them all together in a little album inspired by a bedtime story we read that is titled, “What Dads Do Best/What Moms Do Best.” After I got finished, I realized that this is also an album all about my husband wearing sunglasses! He has them on in almost every shot.

March Fun Fact
I have spring fever! I want to clean my house and paint a bunch of rooms!

 

Documented | Monika Wright

3.5 x 5 | materials cardstock (Hobby Lobby) + patterned paper, cardstock stickers, decorative tape (My Mind's Eye) + die cut (Sizzix) + ink (Stampin' Up) + stamps (creativityprompt.com) + journaling cards (Becky Higgins, Project Life) + sewing machine, thread

A Note from Monika
As a girl who adores mini albums, I kinda sorta took the low road on this assignment. So many times, I sit in the car and over hear conversations from my girls in the back seat. I THINK that I'm going to remember them, but I don't. And that's where this little pocket | purse mini notebook came in to play. I utilize Project Life cards that can be added to a layout or an album in an instant. Now, when I come to a traffic light, I can quickly jot down the conversation before it's forgotten forever. I just trimmed some kraft cardstock so that the PL cards fit snugly inside and scored some half pockets before stitching it all together on my Mom's vintage Singer sewing machine!

March Fun Fact
The older I get, the less I like winter. Although, I do love wearing cute boots, scarves and turtlenecks... go figure! Oh, and I'm entering my last year in my 40's on the 28th of this month.

 

Hong Kong 2012 I Christa Paustenbaugh

5 x 7 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned papers (Elle’s Studio) + stickers (Jillibean Soup, American Crafts, Studio Calico, Crate Paper) + die cuts (Elle’s Studio) + epoxy dots (My Mind’s Eye) + wood veneer (Studio Calico) + tape (Target, MK) + stamps (Elle’s Studio) + ink (Jenni Bowlin Studios, Versamark) + embossing powder (American Crafts) + punches (Fiskars) + tags (Elle’s Studio) 

A Note from Christa
We took our first off island trip in November to beautiful Hong Kong. Of course I took hundreds of photos, but wanted to highlight our trip with a few of my favorite photos. I used mostly wallet sized so I could fit as many as possible in the small album. I did not use an album base, but rather papers, die cuts and tabs as inserts for journaling and photos.

March Fun Fact
March in Okinawa, Japan means that the warm, humid weather will start to return and although I’m saying this now, I’ll soon regret it when we are knee deep in July and August – I’m ready for it! Ready for bathing suits, beach time and fun in the water!

 

25 Years of Giving Thanks | Amy Sorensen

6 x 8.5 | materials various patterned paper scraps (mostly Authentique) + stickers (Authentique) + font (Melanie Lane) + tabs (Silhouette)

A Note from Amy
When I took my mini book into the copy store to have the cover laminated and the binding done, the copy-store clerk looked at me a little strangely. "Wait," she said. "This is cute, but why Thanksgiving in February?"
Because I tend to procrastinate, that's why! I wanted to make this mini book back in November, but I got busy doing other stuff and never got around to putting it together. So yep, here I am, making a Thanksgiving mini for the March gallery. This is okay because it means when November rolls around again, I will be completely ready.

March Fun Fact
In the past two weeks I have made five batches of lemon bread. My family can't get enough!

 

When There's Love at Home | Marnie Flores

4 x 3 | materials patterned paper (Authentique) + washi tape (Recollections) + alphabet stickers (Chatterbox) + printables (write. click. scrapbook.) + eyelets, binder rings, plastic bags

A Note from Marnie
Last month, I put together a family Valentine's activity. You can read the details on our Valentine's week, if you missed the original post. I could never have imagined how successful it was going to be. The kids were so excited to leave each other notes. Especially my 14 year old son. He didn't miss a day. We filled the mailboxes and then read them one at a time on Valentine's day. Some of them were high-lair-ee-us. Some were sweet. And some made me cry. And it brought a lovely spirit of kindness to our home that is still there. I really really really feel grateful for the inspiration to create this little project. I hope you might consider doing it, too. Even without Valentine's day.

To put the notes together, I decided to put them in little plastic bags to help make them more readable. I found little snack bags that were 4x6 and then cut down the tops. I punched them with my crop-a-dile and strung them together. I added washi tape to the bottom of the four dividers to help make it a bit prettier and to help separate all the pages.

The journaling cards are for sale in the new wcs etsy shop in all sorts of colors if you would like them!

March Fun Fact
That groundhog told me there are only two more weeks of winter. I hope he wasn't lying. I am done. with. winter. Done. ☺

 

Family Fun | Marnie Flores

8 x 8 | materials patterned paper (Pebbles, Fancy Pants, My Mind's Eye) + journaling pad (Pebbles) + thickers (American Crafts) + page protectors (Doodlebug) + pens (Tombow)

A Note from Marnie
I found this journaling pad and thought it would make for a great mini album. I pulled out all the cards and put them into a general order. Then we all sat round the table and filled them out. I love the little girls printing these days, and am so glad to have their ideas captured in their own writing.
After the cards were filled out, a few were rearranged to better suit what was written. (ie. hadn't counted on three zombie responses, but they so represent things around here right now.) I used three styles of page protectors from Doodlebug which gave me lots of options. You might notice I still need to add in some photos. Now that I know what photos I need, we can do a photoshoot and fill in the blanks.

March Fun Fact
American Idol is in full swing. Can't decide if I think it will be a good one or not. Jury is still out... I do know that I prefer JLo to Mariah...

 

Two more things before we go...

First, are you ready for your brand new cut file! Christine has done it again, making us something so perfect for our theme.

You may download it here.

And lastly, this month we say goodbye to Katrina Simeck and Emily Spahn. They are lovely ladies with radiant spirits. We will miss them terribly. It is so very hard to say goodbye to friends who bring a kind light to our days and who inspire us with their artwork. Thank you, both, for the time you have given us. You will be missed.

Please join us in thanking them for their time here! And we would love to hear from you concerning our mini albums and how much you love them!! Happy March!

Welcome, February!

Thank you for joining us! We are so excited to be here and to share with you our new gallery. We have some amazing things in the works this month and can't wait to show you.

The first new feature that we have is that each month we will be bringing you a cut file for you! They will share the theme of our gallery hoping you will be inspired to create your own gallery layout. Here is this month's file.Isn't it awesome? Isn't Christine awesome? If you would like the cut file, you may download it here. And if you do, please be sure to leave a comment below thanking Christine for sharing her talents with us!

Our next surprise will be coming mid-month. Be sure to check back often! Or better yet, if you subscribe to our page, then it will automatically pop up in your inbox!

Enough, enough, you cry, please show us the gallery...

 

Conversations

This month, our gallery is entitled, "Conversations." We were hoping to provide you opportunity and desire to put together a page or two based upon the funny things your kids say, or those conversations that you have every day, or one that changed your life. Your phone is filled with short back and forths if you are a texter. Have you thought to take a screen shot? How about having a notebook in your purse to record those hilarious things that you hear in your car? Or maybe something someone said to you once changed your life forever. This month we hope to inspire you to write these things done, and record your memories. Add a photo, or not, and you will have a page that will bring smiles and reminders for years to come.

Without further ado, our new gallery. as a friendly reminder, If you would like to see them larger and to read the journaling notes, please head over to the Conversation Gallery photo album.

 

Since When | Aliza Deutsch

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts, My Mind’s Eye, October Afternoon, Jillibean Soup) + embellishments (Pebbles, Elle’s Studio) + stickers (American Crafts-Amy Tangerine)
 
A Note from Aliza
I just love the pure emotion in these photos. It is simply pure excitement for Chanukah presents.

 

Live, Laugh, Love & Eat Cookies | Aliza Deutsch

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, American Crafts, Pink Paislee, Echo Park Paper Co.) + embellishments (Ormolu, Elle’s Studio, Studio Calico, Doodlebug Designs, Crate Paper, American Crafts, My Mind’s Eye) + stickers (Basic Grey, October Afternoon)

A Note from Aliza
This layout is about a topic that is near and dear to me. I also love cake.

February Fun Fact
According to every TV show and magazine article ever, I am supposed to love shoes. But I usually wear the same shoes every day. I do, however, change my rings to match my outfit.

 

crazy circular car conversation #576 | Celeste Smith

12 x 12 | materials kit (Retrospective by One Little Bird at The Lilypad) + masks (Cut.It.Out by Robyn Meierotto at Pixels & Company) + stitching (In Stitches Neutral by Robyn Meierotto at Pixels & Company, Bad Sewing Machine Basics by Traci Reed at Sweet Shoppe Designs) + sticker (One for the Road kit by Dani Mogstad at Jessica Sprague) + font (Another Typewriter)

A Note from Celeste
I wrote this conversation down down the minute I returned home. so I could stay pretty true to the craziness! It's hard to give both boys the attention they need when our conversations go like this!

February Fun Fact
Winter break quickly approaches and while the others in my house are excited about going to New Hampshire to ski, I'm excited about going to New Hampshire to read!

 

In Every Conversation | Lisa Ottosson

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts) + stickers (American Crafts Thickers, My Little Shoebox mini stickers)

A Note from Lisa
I was so happy that this theme came to be, because I really needed a kick in the you-know-what to record the way my daughter includes something about her favorite boyband One Direction in just about every conversation!

February Fun Fact
I don´t really like the music of One Direction, but since my daughter listens to them constantly, I know many of the words to them.

 

It is My Dream To Slap A Gorilla | Jennie McGarvey

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts) + stickers (Pebbles and American Crafts) + Embellishments (Hello Forever, clip & sequins unknown) + Stamps (Studio Calico) + ink (Studio Calico)

A Note from Jennie
This layout just makes me laugh. When Sawyer told me one of his dreams was to slap a gorilla, I knew I wanted to remember this silliness forever.

February Fun Fact
I am currently addicted to grids and find myself wanting to use them on every project!

 

Grass Wonderland | Katie Ehmann

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Crate Paper) + embellishments (Crate Paper) + stickers (Crate Paper) + typerwriter (Royal) + Silhouette Cameo + sewing machine

A Note from Katie
This layout was inspired by a conversation between my youngest daughter and me after a 60 degree day that wiped out all our snow. I used fun, bright patterns and colors to complement my photo. And lots of layering.

February Fun Fact
I am slightly obsessed with vintage right now and plan to slowly turn our home décor into a 40s-60s kitch-fest. Don’t tell my husband ;-)

 

This is so You | Diane Payne

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Basic Grey, My Mind's Eye, Simple Stories, American Crafts, KI) + embellishments (Studio Calico, American Crafts, Hello Forever) + stickers (KI Memories)

A Note from Diane
The photos in the this layout perfectly capture the carefree spirit of my daughter. I brainstormed with my daughter and husband to come up with the phrases/quotes I included and feel that I really captured her personality.

February Fun Fact
I like to purge and organize things, especially in January! I'll make several trips to the Container Store looking for the perfect organizational system for my things.

 

What Dominic Says | Jennifer Larson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Simple Stories, American Crafts) + die cut paper (KI Memories) + vellum (Studio Calico) + embellishments (Studio Calico, My Mind’s Eye, American Crafts) + stickers (KI Memories, October Afternoon) + photography (Junglefish Studios)

A Note from Jennifer
My son is a champion of memorable words. I’ve made many pages about his aphorisms, and this story that I record on this page made me think I should pull every page I’ve made about his turns of phrase and put them in a separate album. I mean, I can’t argue with “Pancakes are not pancakes without bacon”!

February Fun Fact
My son, whose birthday is in February, was born one month after my birthday.

 

You & Me | Francine Clouden

12x12 | materials Patterned paper (basicGrey) + transparent letter stickers (Amy Tangerine, American Crafts) + die cuts (Studio Calico) + stamps (Studio Calico) + arrow Thickers (American Crafts) + button (Studio Calico) + mini file folder (BasicGrey) + paperclip + baker's twine

A Note from Francine
This page looks complicated but was very easy to put together because I used a patterned paper from Basic Grey with all the pre-printed layers you see behind the photo! This conversation with Kieran is one we have been having a lot lately, as Kieran tries to work out personal pronouns.

February Fun Fact
I ate the entire box of Belgian chocolates my mother-in-law gave us for Christmas. Time to start back using the Wii Fit!

 

So Happy | Amy Sorenson

12x12 | materials patterned paper (My Mind's Eye) + stamps (Close to my Heart) + stamping ink (ColorBox) + washi (Target) + fabic + twine + Alegreya and Bemio fonts

A Note from Amy
I hope I'm not the only one who does this...but I love scrapping Christmas photos in January. It makes me feel like I'm able to revisit the holidays. Honestly? January is pretty much the only time I get any Christmas photos scrapped at all. I wrote down this sweet thing that Kaleb said on a scrap of wrapping paper so I wouldn't forget it!

February Fun Fact
Valentine's Day is my least-favorite holiday. Someone might even call me a Valentine's-Day scrooge and be pretty accurate! Luckily my anniversary is on the 13th, so we celebrate that instead.

 

He Said, She Said | Valerie O'Neall

8.5 x 11 | materials cardstock (Neenah) + stamps (Ormolu) + mist (Studio Calico) + ink (VersaMark & Memento) + embossing powder (American Crafts) + washi (October Afternoon) + fabric brad (Crate Paper) + enamel dots (My Mind's Eye) + other (vintage typewriter , Sharpie, & hole reinforcers)

A Note from Valerie
My son is so observant and this layout depicts just one little story about it. First thing I did to create this layout was journal on the cardstock with my typewriter. Next I stamped and embossed, then added the mist, photo, and embellishments. It all came together rather quickly.

February Fun Fact
My birthday is in February. This is the year I get to say bye-bye to the twenties.

 

Our Last Conversation | Christine Newman

(12 x 12) | materials cardstock (Gmund, American Crafts, Bazzill) + patterned paper (BasicGrey) + embellishments (My Mind's Eye, Pink Paislee, Simple Stories Sn@p) + twine (The Twinery) + stamps (Evalicious, Technique Tuesday, Ormolu) + ink (Ranger JBS, Prima) + digital graphics (Miss Tiina) + die-cut machine (Silhouette) + sewing machine (Brother) + thread (Coats & Clark)

A Note from Christine Newman
This is the first layout I've ever created about the last conversation I had with my mom before she passed away from cancer. Every time I thought about what I would journal for this layout, I started crying. Even though it's been six years since she's been gone, it's still hard for me to think about our precious past conversation.

February Fun Fact
My husband's birthday is in February. The Super Bowl is usually in February as well. So the past two years we've had a combined birthday + Super Bowl party called "Super Todd"!

 

Silly Things You Say | Emily Spahn

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico) + embellishments (American Crafts, Kikkerland, Studio Calico, Pretty Little Studio) + stickers (American Crafts) + cardstock (Bazzil)

A Note from Emily
My daughter is constantly saying hilarious things – things that probably are not funny to anyone else, but she is always cracking us up! I loved these quote bubble sticky notes! They worked perfectly to document her funnies!

February Fun Fact
I got married in a town that has a “famous” groundhog. One year for Groundhog’s Day we went to a big celebration in his honor. We got to see him make his prediction and then enjoyed snacks and games…we even bought a groundhog shaped cookie cutter. It was all very random… ;)

 

Super Panty I Christa Paustenbaugh

8.5 X 11 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned papers (October Afternoon, Bo Bunny) + stickers (Bella Blvd, Sassafras Lass) + brads (October Afternoon) + die cut (Evalicious) + flair (Ormolu) + twine (Ormolu) + tape (Bella Blvd) + die cut machine (Silhouette)

A Note from Christa
Our youngest child Ella can both make us see red and make us laugh until we are red within a 2 minute period. We nearly wet ourselves laughing at her when she came downstairs dressed like this. We asked her “what are you supposed to be?” and her reply – “You know! I’m SUPER PANTY”! And quickly posed for obligatory photos!

February Fun Fact
I can sing the Monster High theme song in my sleep, while I cook and during a run because I have heard it so. Many. Times. I’m ready for the next phase and fad!

 

Hello Daddy| Keshet Starr

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, KI Memories, craft supply) + embellishments (October Afternoon) + stickers (Basic Grey, Jenni Bowlin Studio, Crate Paper, craft supply)

A Note from Keshet
My little one can’t talk yet, but her expressions show all of her conversation!

February Fun Fact
I’m afraid of my basement in the dark!

 

Words | Paula Gilarde

12 x 12 | materialscardstock (Core'dinations & Bazzill) + kraft paper (Jillibean Soup)+ twine (Jillibean Soup) + watercolor paper + stickers (American Crafts) + Stencil (Crafters Workshop) + rub on (Hambly) + stamps (Studio G) + Digital Element (Katie Pertiet digital frame)

A Note from Paula
My daugher is 10 years old but I've held on to a scrap of paper where I wrote down the words she knew at 18 months. I stopped keeping count at 50! She has a lot more hair now :)

 

Basketball | Jennie McGarvey

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Fancy Pants Designs) + embellishments (Jenni Bowlin, October Afternoon, Studio Calico) + stickers (Pebbles)

A Note from Jennie
This layout was prompted after I received this email from my son's basketball coach. This was not the first time I'd received a message like this, so I decided it was definitely part of his story. I thought that a layout that included a screenshot of an email was perfect for the conversations theme -- and I was excited to have this part of his life documented.

 

Hello Today | Amy Coose

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Basic Grey, Echo Park) + embellishments (Studio Calico, Echo Park, Hello Forever) + tags (Chic Tags) + Silhouette Cameo

A Note from Amy
This layout was based around my new form of communication with my teenager and tween.

February Fun Fact
I don't really like the way conversation hearts taste, but I will eat them by the handful if I have them around. 

 

Handsome (even when filthy) | Kelly Jeppson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Doodlebug Designs, Ranger) + embellishments (Doodlebug Designs)

A Note from Kelly
This layout uses a photo that I took when my oldest came home from Cub Scout Camp last summer, covered in dirt from head to toe.

February Fun Fact
I love making Valentines and sugar cookies, but I'm not really into mushy romantic stuff. The most romantic present my husband ever gave me was a mix-tape he made of songs he thought I would like (back when we had tape players!).

 

How You Ask | Sarah Pendergrast

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts) + embellishments (American Crafts, Studio Calico, KI Memories, Basic Grey, Jenni Bowlin) + stickers (Jenni Bowlin, Basic Grey, October Afternoon)

A Note from Sarah
This layout is just about a fun and playful conversation we had repeatedly leading up to getting our first dog. My husband would like to state, for the record, that he is not as gullible as the journaling makes him sound!

February Fun Fact
My 80 pound (and growing) puppy thinks she’s a lap dog!

 

I'm Gonna Marry | Erin Sweeney

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Basic Grey) + embellishments (American Crafts) + stickers (Jillibean Soup, Heidi Swapp, American Crafts) 

A Note from Erin
I’m not sure what led up to the conversation I overheard my girls having in their room, but it must have been good to lead up to the snippet I caught from the stairs!

February Fun Fact
This month I’m Tackling the Tower in Cleveland and racing up 38 flights of stairs. Okay, so racing is exaggerating. More like just trying to make it to the top without my legs collapsing beneath me. :)

 

CHA 2013 | Deb Duty

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Echo Park, Basic Grey, Studio Calico, My Mind's Eye) + embellishments (Freckled Fawn, Studio Calico, My Mind's Eye ) + letter stickers (Simple Stories)

A Note from Deb
I was inspired by the theme of conversations to make a layout about my new friend, Suzy. We hit it off and had a great time together at CHA and never had enough time to say everything we wanted to say!

February Fun Fact
I am now starting my fourth year of Project Life. I still love it and treasure my albums more than any of my other scrapbooks. I have lots of fun making regular layouts too. Project Life allows me to make fun layouts about any subject I want because the everyday moments are already documented.

 

He Said She Said | Christine Newman

12 x 12 | materials Once Upon A Story digital kit (Lili Niclass & Emily Merritt) + Bokeh Overlays (Leora Sanford) + fonts (Capture It, Pupcat)

A Note from Christine
I tried to make this layout resemble a comic book page with my photo processing and speech bubbles.

February Fun Fact
I don't have an iPhone or Android phone. I hope to get one this year. My Blackberry is cramping my Project Life everyday documenting plans.

 

Tart Business | Marnie Flores

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Libby Pritchett, Lori Whitlock, Creativity by Crystal) + elements (Libby Pritchett, Lori Whitlock) + button, ribbons (Libby Pritchett) + fonts (Ostrich Sans Rounded, Century Gothic CK Chloe, KG Ray of Sunshine, KG Payphone, KG Seven Sixteen)

A Note from Marnie
I love that this layout is about Cherry Limeade and that I used a kit with the same name!

February Fun Fact
This month will the quietest month for us until June. Which will then be the quietest until next February. I only wish this month had 45 days!

 

Before we go, we must say goodbye to three team members. Vivian Masket, Emily Pitts, and Kathy Martin are all leaving us this month. They will be missed. Kathy's use of color and her attention to detail are second to none. Emily and Vivian have been with us since the beginning. Emily with her quirky pages and mazing sense of color and design. Vivian with her thoughtful pages with precision execution and stylistic balance. Both have been an integral part of our team, providing much more than just great pages. WCS will not be the same without them.  Thank you, sweet friends, for sharing your lives with us these past four years!

 

Thank you for visiting us today! We hope you have enjoyed our gallery. Remember we enjoy hearing from you and reading your comments!

Welcome, December!

It's December. Which means more good food, family gatherings, and a break from school for the kids. December also has a tendency to bring madness, and chaos, if you let it. Which we will not, right?? 

This month we return to December Dailies with each day a new author. We will have layouts, cards, home decor and more. All to help you through your holiday scrapbooking and preparation. It begins Monday with Celeste and a printable. You loved it last year, so don't miss it this year!! 

But for now, today is a new gallery! Did you see our new countdown banner? Do you love it? We do, too! And the countdown has ended which means it is time for you to see some new layouts!

This month, we are scrapbooking Our Favorite Photos. December can be very busy but those photos that we love seem to draw us in, no matter what the todo list, no? We hope you enjoy seeing some of our most favorite photos turned into favorite layouts!

As always, if you would like the see the layouts a bit bigger and to have the journaling to read, click over the photo album! Enjoy! And we always love your comments telling us how much you love us!

 

NYC After the Storm| Aliza Deutsch

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Basic Grey, Studio Calico, Echo Park, Lawn Fawn) + embellishments (Crate Paper, Amy Tangerine, A Flair for Buttons, Paper Source, My Mind’s Eye ) + stickers (American Crafts)

A Note from Aliza
In the days following hurricane Sandy, while we went a few days without some basic amenities, I was overwhelmed by feelings of gratitude for all that we usually have. I knew the experience would find its way into some layouts. So, you know, I made sure to photograph it.

December Fun Fact
It’s my birthday this month! 

 

Cherish | Vivian Masket

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill Basics) + patterned paper (Crate Paper) + wood embellishments (Crate Paper) + ribbon (May Arts) + die cutting machine (Silhouette) + fonts (Pacifico, AL Uncle Charles)

A Note from Vivian
I really wanted to use this gorgeous baby-themed patterned paper with my photo but it didn’t match. A simple fix – I converted the photo to black and white, which enabled me to use these papers.

December Fun Fact
Is it wrong that I am already thinking about Christmas cookies when there’s still Halloween candy left?

 

A New Favorite I Christa Paustenbaugh

12 X 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned papers (Crate Paper, Echo Park) + stickers (Jillibean Soup, October Afternoon, American Crafts) + wood veneer (Studio Calico) + brads (Crate Paper, SEI) + die cuts (Maya Road, Banana Fish Studio) + chipboard (American Crafts) + flair (Ormolu) + buttons (Crate Paper) + tape (Bella Blvd.) + twine (The Twinery) + stamp (Banana Fish Studio) + embossing powder (American Crafts)

A Note from Christa
Since our move in May I have been making a conscious effort to put myself in front of the camera more often instead of hiding behind it. Even on those days that I don’t feel like I look pretty or have make up on or my hair done. My kids and family don’t care and just want to see me in those photos. This is one of my new favorites from a recent spur of the moment photo shoot. I treasure this photo!

December Fun Fact
Many people can’t imagine Christmas/the holidays without cold and/or snow. I’m luckily not one of those people! I’m looking forward to enjoying Christmas outside in my shorts and possibly a light sweater if I get cold. 

You're My Ocean & Stars | Celeste Smith

12 x 12 | materials digital kit (Ahoy Love by Audrey Neal, Retired) + tags (Toolbox Tags vol 1 by Gennifer Bursett, retired) + template edges (Beautiful Memories by Erica Coombs, retired)

A Note from Celeste
My favorite photos are typically staged photos that include both boys looking at the camera and smiling. It is rare to get the two of them in the same place, sitting still, and in a mood to cooperate! By converting my photo to black and white, I was able to make it work with the colors in this kit. My older son's orange shirt would have clashed terribly!

December Fun Fact
Christmas break is coming! 11 days to just veg out and re-read the entire Harry Potter series for the sixth time!

 

Joy | Monika Wright

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper, embellishments, stickers, twine (My Mind’s Eye) + paper doily (craft supply)

A Note from Monika
Even though I’ve scrapped this photo before, it just speaks to me. Even though we have tried to have more children since this photo was taken, this is our first official family photo as a family of five. My son is now taller than all of us and no longer lives at home, but we remain a family of five.

December Fun Fact
This photo was taken 6 weeks after our youngest was born and she just turned 7!

 

My Current Favorite | Lisa Ottosson

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Panduro Hobby) + embellishments (Dear Lizzy) + stickers (Websters pages, Pink Paislee)

A Note from Lisa
I went with my current favorite photo. First I thought that I might do a page about what I think are the most important photos, but I came to the conclusion that all my photos are important for different reasons. This one is important because it is my favorite right now.

December Fun Fact
I love photos! I do. I love taking them. I love looking at them. I love to play with them. I love finding them in thrift stores. I love photos!

 

Joy | Diane Payne

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico) + embellishments (Studio Calico) + stickers (Studio Calico)

A Note from Diane
I've scrapped this photo before with a series of other photos but I love it so much I wanted it to be the main focal point of a page. From a technical standpoint, this photo isn't fabulous but I captured the excitement of the moment in this candid shot and I smile every I look at it.

December Fun Fact
Christmas is my favorite time of year. I enjoy spending more time at home with my family and always put up the Christmas tree right after Thanksgiving so we can enjoy the lights and decorations for several weeks.

 

These Moments | Jennie McGarvey

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill), patterned paper (Lily Bee Designs, Echo Park) banners (Elle's Studio) stickers (American Crafts) stamps (Cocoa Daisy) Embossing Powder (American Crafts)

A Note from Jennie
I was holding onto this photo because I love it. It's not a masterpiece, as it was just taken with my iPhone, but it's the boys and I -- with true expressions in a lovely setting. I'm happy to have it and it's definitely a current favorite.

December Fun Fact
I am absolutely not a fan of the cold. Bad for a girl living in the midwest.

 

Oreo | Kathy Martin

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Pebbles) + alphabet stickers (American Crafts) + accents (Pebbles)

A Note from Kathy
My favorite kind of photo is the everyday kind that capture the little moments of our lives. While posed pictures are beautiful and there are so many great photographers today, I still prefer the shots we take at home. They aren’t always the best quality, but they are the real deal.

December Fun Fact
We currently have three cats, two parrots and two sugar gliders.

 

I've Grown | Francine Clouden

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Making Memories) + die cut butterflies (Making Memories) + glitter letter stickers (Making Memories) + journaling spots (Making Memories)

A Note from Francine
Since Kieran came along I take way less photos of myself. I know it's really important for me to be present on the scrapbook pages, so photos of the two of us are really special to me. I just need to try to take more like this!

December Fun Fact
I'm currently obsessed with Instagram. I know, I am late to this party, but better late than never right?

 

Love You | Amy Coose

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill) + patterned paper (My Mind's Eye, October Afternoon, Lawn Fawn) + embellishments (Simple Stories, October Afternoon, Kaiser Craft) + stickers (Simple Stories) + Silhouette Cameo

A Note from Amy 
I don't have many pictures of my hubby and I so when I get one, it's very special. We snapped this one before a party and it's one of my favorite photos that we have together.

December Fun Fact 
I am a homebody by nature, so winter is one of my favorite seasons. I love having an excuse to stay in my warm clothes, snuggled by a fire, drinking coffee all day.

 

So Tiny | Valerie O'Neall

8.5 x 11 | materials kit (Studio Calico Poodle Skirt) + patterned paper (American Crafts) + die cut shape (American Crafts) + alpha stickers (Pink Paislee) + stamp (Studio Calico + Hero Arts) + vellum (Office Depot) + ink (Staz On) + other (striped washi, sewing machine, thread) + font (St. Marie)

A Note from Valerie
So tiny! Look at that perfect tiny, little hand! I thought it would be cool to use vellum as my background, so I printed out my journaling on a sheet and went from there. Everything is from Studio Calico's Poodle Skirt kit except for the washi and the vellum.

December Fun Fact
We always get a real Christmas tree every year. I think it's such a great tradition, and it's one less thing we have to store the rest of the year.

 

Captured | Sarah Pendergrast

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts, Studio Calico, Basic Grey) + embellishments (Studio Calico, Sodalicious, Basic Grey, American Crafts, My Minds Eye) + stickers (Jenni Bowlin, American Crafts)

A Note from Sarah
This month's theme was photos that matter. I chose this photo because I think it captured the love between these two in a natural unforced way.

 

 

30 Years Later | Katie Ehmann

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Bazzill Basics, American Crafts) + embellishments (Studio Calico) + stickers (Studio Calico) + stamps (Studio Calico) + ink (Hero Arts)

A Note from Katie
This layout means a lot to me because last Christmas my sister, cousins and I re-created a photo that was taken 30 years ago. The idea that 30 years went by so quickly is both fascinating and frightening to me! I used my Silhouette Cameo for the title and backed it with POW paper to give it a little punch. All patterned papers and embellishments are from Studio Calico's Darling Dear line. I love how it works with the colors and vintage feel of my photo! I tucked some hidden journaling on the tag that says "pull".

December Fun Fact
I love December! Family traditions, holiday crafts, Christmas movies, Christmas presents, Christmas songs, Christmas cookies...you get the idea ;-)

 

You're My Favorite | Christine Newman

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned papers (October Afternoon, BasicGrey, Studio Calico, American Crafts, Echo Park) + vellum paper (Strathmore) + embellishments (Freckled Fawn, BasicGrey, My Mind's Eye, American Crafts, October Afternoon, Studio Calico) + twine (The Twinery) + stamps (Studio Calico, American Crafts, Freshed Baked Paper Goods on Etsy) + ink (Momento, Prima) + digital graphics (Lauren Grier, Elle's Studio) + die-cut machine (Silhouette) + font (Blackout) + Photoshop Actions (Totally Rad)

A Note from Christine
This layout has one of my very favorite photos of my husband Todd. He just looks so handsome. Plus, he was standing in front of Ghirardelli chocolate store in San Francisco. Which makes two of my very favorites in the same photo! :) This also might be the first time I've used a dark background for a layout. I would love to do more of them.

December Fun Fact
I hate shopping in the crowded stores in December, so I do almost all my holiday gift shopping online, or I make handmade gifts.

 

Brickmasters | Jennifer Larson

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Stampin’ Up!) + patterned paper (My Mind’s Eye, Simple Stories, Pebbles, Jillibean Soup) + embellishments (Simple Stories, American Crafts, October Afternoon, Lego Club, Stampin’ Up!) + punch (EK Success) + chipboard (American Crafts) + ink (Stampin’ Up!, Jenni Bowlin) + stamps (Studio Calico) + fonts (Gill Sans)

A Note from Jennifer
The journaling says it all: I’ve taken the boys to Lego Club for the past three years, but these two photos are my favorites. I took them on my iPhone with Instagram, and I love them because of how grown up they look. And for the first time ever, I’ve used one of their Lego Club stickers they get but never use. Stolen for a good cause!

December Fun Fact
I always make a Lego advent calendar for Christmas. I buy two small Lego sets, about 250 pieces each, one for each boy. I made a Karen Foster drawer calendar for this, and every day I insert a clue into the day’s drawer. (My boys trade off days: my older boy gets odd days because his birthday is odd, my younger boy gets evens because his birthday is even.) When the boys figure out the clue and go to where the clue leads them, that boy finds a few Lego pieces. That lasts until Christmas, and on Christmas morning each boy finds the directions for the Lego set he’s been collecting under the tree. It’s so much fun for them, though they’re getting better at figuring out which set they’re getting.

 

Beauty is a Light | Amy Sorensen

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (My Mind's Eye, Basic Grey) + large alphabet stamp (Close to My Heart) + small alphabet stamp (Studio Calico) + ink (Close to My Heart) + Sunshine in my Soul font

A Note from Amy
I read a challenge somewhere on someone's blog recently to let your children hear you compliment yourself. This layout grew out of that challenge—it really is something I need to work on. The photo has me, my mom, and my younger sister Becky; my daughter Haley took it for us. It's a photo that matters for several reasons to me, but mostly because I don't have enough pictures with me and the people I love. I need to work on that too!

December Fun Fact
I think dark chocolate Lindt truffle balls are one of mankind's best creations!

 

Sock Monkey Joy | Deb Duty

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Basic Grey) + stickers (Basic Grey) + stamps (Basic Grey, Technique Tuesday)

A Note from Deb
This layout is about one of my favorite photos from last Christmas. I love how Mason is smiling proudly with his sock monkey and Alec is still looking his over trying to decide whether or not he likes it.

December Fun Fact
I'll be finishing up my third year of Project Life soon. I'm excited to start again in January!

 

My Boys | Paula Gilarde

12 x 12 | materials Alison Solids (Maplebrook Studios) + Messy Stitched Borders Green No. 1 (Katie Pertiet) + Splatters No. 3 (Katie Pertiet) + Readymade Banners For Dad (Studio DD) + Essential Words No. 2 (Ali Edwards) + Wooden Alpha No. 5 (Katie Pertiet) + Doodle Do Frames No. 1 (Katie Pertiet) + Staple Its (Pattie Knox)

A Note from Paula
We had a photo shoot with a local photographer earlier in the year - this is one of my favorite shots, of my two boys.

December Fun Fact
I'm a big fan of advent calendars. One year we had 5 going at one time - I think that might have been a few too many though!

 

Every Single Day | Emily Spahn

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Pink Paislee) + chipboard alphabet (Basic Grey) + wood stars (Studio Calico) + stamps (Sodalicious, Becky Higgins) + pin (Maya Road) + tab (October Afternoon) + wash tape (MT) + sticker (Authentique) + mist (Studio Calico)

A Note from Emily
This is one of the hardest layouts I’ve ever made. This is my dog Maddie, who we lost this past January to Lymphoma. She was six years old. This photo was taken two days before she passed, exactly three months after she was diagnosed. She was suddenly so sick and weak. Her eyes were filled with sadness. It still breaks my heart to look at these photos, and this is the first time I have scrapbooked a layout about her since she’s been gone. She was so much more than a dog. She was our family…our baby. And, like the layout says, I miss her every single day.

December Fun Fact
December is a month of traditions! One of our favorite December traditions is going as a family downtown (Chicago), having breakfast, and visiting the Christkindlmarket. This year will be our sixth (or maybe seventh!!) year! I can’t wait!

 

Live Out Loud | Erin Sweeney

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (My Mind's Eye, Basic Grey) + stickers (7 Gypsies) 

A Note from Erin
This layout is not new. In fact, it’s been posted here on wcs before. But I love it. And when I saw the theme was favorite photos I knew I had to use it again. I LOVE these pictures of my daughter Mackenzie. They are so her. They capture her spirit, her personality. And these pictures perfectly accompany the journaling, describing who Mackenzie was when these were taken. She’s five now, and still just as spunky!

December Fun Fact
Today I’m running a 5K with jingle bells on my shoes and reindeer antlers on my head. Merry Christmas!

 

Twenty Years | Emily Pitts

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned paper (My Mind’s Eye, October Afternoon) + journaling card, stickers, green alphabet stickers (Simple Stories) + chipboard alphabet (American Crafts) stamp (Kelly Purkey for Cocoa Daisy, Cocoa Daisy) + washi tape (My Mind’s Eye) + adhesive (Glue Arts, Recollections) + embossing powder (American Crafts) + pen (EK Success) + floss (DMC)

A Note from Emily
I was going to scrap a very old photo, but then I took this one and it captures the relationship my husband and I have so well that I had to scrap it instead.

December Fun Fact
My scrap loft is finally clean! It only took me a year, but it’s all cleaned and organized in a huge IKEA cabinet. I got rid of about 50 pounds of stuff in the process, donating and recycling it. I’m a much happier person. Over Christmas break, we are going to pull the white carpet out and install hardwood. I’m so excited!

 

Happiness | Marnie Flores

12 x 12 | materials banner (Michelle Underwood) + tape (Michelle Underwood) + ribbon (Michelle Underwood) + word strip (Lori Whitlock) + fonts (KG Ray of Sunshine, Letter Gothic)

A Note from Marnie
Favorite photos for me are often the last ones taken. I'm incredibly fickle that way. So when I went hunting for one that was more that just the most recent favorite, I remembered about this one. I love that it captures emotion. I realized as I was picking favorites that most are the ones that capture my kids just as I see them. A face, or a muted sound, or a look--just a little something that gets it right. I love that.

December Fun Fact
My kids have never ever ever wanted to sit on Santa's lap. Instead, we go to the mall with the second floor, and wave to him from upstairs. One year he waved back. They were five hundred and sixteen times more excited than I could have imagined. The write letters for the real Santa and feel no need to sit upon a strange impersonator's lap. Why sit when you can wave from afar? Silly mites.

Welcome, November!

We welcome November with sugar-hyped kids and costumes ready to be put away. Hopefully you all had a fun Hallowed Eve, and that the kids brought home your favorite candy!!

This month we are excited to welcome four new team members! Aliza Deutsch, Jennie McGarvey, Christine Newman, and Amy Coose are joining us and we couldn't be more happy. They bring well designed pages, excellent photos, and delightful lives to you and to us. Take a moment and stop by their bio pages and get to know them. They are all participating in our gallery as well, so you will have a chance to see them in action today!

We have a terrific lineup for you this month. Sarah will be finishing out this week for us, followed by Vivian who has a fun week planned. After that we have a team week to help you get ready for Thanksgiving. Jenny will be next; and Katie will close out the month. What a month it will be!

But now, put your hands together for our new gallery! We gave you sneaks... could you figure it out? This month, our theme is We Love Color! Follow the link to the photoalbum and you can read the journaling and see the the layouts in greater detail. Here are 24 new layouts for you to love and use for inspiration! We hope you love them! (Feel free to tell us!!)

 

4 Eyes | Francine Clouden

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Jenni Bowlin) + vinyl letter stickers (American Crafts) + paper flower (Sassafras Lass) + stamps (Banana Frog) + adhesive pearls (Kaiser Crafts) + sticker (Sassafras Lass)

A Note from Francine
My love affair with the yellow and grey combo began just over two years ago (around the time when this layout was made). Before this I was always hard pressed to name a favourite colour, but since this combination has persisted I think it is safe to say that I have found an answer!

November Fun Fact
We're moving house! Again! Send me all your good vibes please.

 

 

Hmm…Should I Wear | Aliza Deutsch

(12 x 12) | materials patterned paper (Authentique Paper, Bazzill Basics Paper, My Mind’s Eye, Amy Tangerine, Basic Grey, Echo Park) + embellishments (Amy Tangerine, My Mind’s Eye, A Flair for Buttons, We R Memory Keepers, K&Co) + stickers (Lily Bee Deigns)

A Note from Aliza
This layout is all about my little obsession with the color black. I’m not trying to be sophisticated or artsy. It’s just then when I shop for clothes, shoes, accessories, etc. I always like the black or the gray one best. I find shades of black or gray absolutely rich and delicious. And still in the morning, I need to decide which black shirt and pants to wear. I do own a smattering of colored clothes, but guess what color I always pair them with?

November Fun Fact
I also love gray and rainy days. I don’t think I’ve ever minded waking up to a rainy forecast.

 

 

Click! | Vivian Masket

(12 x 12) | materials cardstock (Bazzill Basics) + patterned paper (October Afternoon) + wood veneer embellishments (Studio Calico) + spray inks (October Afternoon, Studio Calico) + stickers (Jillibean Soup) + die cut (October Afternoon) + brad (October Afternoon) + die cutting machine (Silhouette) + font (Typenoksidi)

A Note from Vivian
My favorite colors are brights against neutrals. On this layout, that took the form of brights (both photos and embellishments) against white with a neutral wood grain pattern and matching brown cardstock border.

November Fun Fact
At Thanksgiving, I always prefer the sides to the turkey.

 

 

Got Color? | Lisa Ottosson

(8.5 x 11) | materials patterned paper (Collage Press) + stickers (Panduro Hobby, American Crafts, Webster Pages)

A Note from Lisa
This layout is one I should have done a long time ago.

November Fun Fact
When I was younger I never used nail polish, now I do almost every day!

 

 

Little Mermaids | Katie Ehmann

(12 x 12) | materials patterned paper (Ki Memories, Echo Park, Amy Tangerine) + embellishments (Studio Calico) + stickers (Amy Tangerine, October Afternoon) + mist (Studio Calico) + punches (Martha Stewart Crafts) + Royal Typewriter

A Note from Katie
This layout features my current favorite colors: bright pink and electric blue with a little kraft thrown in for good measure. I misted the whole sheet of cardstock and used some punched paper to mask the hearts and stars to give my page a little punch (literally, ha!). The instagram of my girls on their last day at the pool for the season went perfectly with the colors I chose.

November Fun Fact
I am a Disney freak. I used to tease a couple of my friends for liking Disney World so much until we went there a few years ago. Now I can't get enough and can't wait to go back in February to see the new Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom!

 

 

Happiness | Deb Duty

(12 x 12) | materials patterned paper (American Crafts, Echo Park, Studio Calico) + embellishments (Studio Calico, My Mind's Eye, October Afternoon) + letter stickers (American Crafts) + stamps (Studio Calico)

A Note from Deb
It's hard to choose absolute favorite colors because there are so many that I love, but lately I've been leaning toward the soft blue color in my layout. When I saw the beautiful yellows and soft greenish blues in this photo, I thought it would be perfect for this theme because the colors are so very lovely.

November Fun Fact
I'm a fan of reality TV. Ever since I happened upon the very first episode of Survivor, I've been totally hooked.

 

 

Rock Star | Diane Payne

(12 x 12) | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + embellishments (A Flair for Buttons, Studio Calico, Sunstar) + stickers (American Crafts)

A Note from Diane
This layout features lots of colors! Yellow is my favorite…my happy color, but really how could I limit my layout to one? When I look through my albums all my layouts are very colorful! In my book, bold and bright layouts are beautiful!

November Fun Fact
There is something about fall that makes me want to burn candles. The fall scents are fabulous and make the house smell so good. I burn more candles in the month of November and December than the entire rest of the year.

 

 

Think Orange | Celeste Smith

(12 x 12) | materials digital kit (Catch the Falling Leaves kit by JM Designs at One Story Down) + button (Daydream kit by Tracy Martin at One Story Down) +Alphabets (Homemade Memories collaboration at One Story Down, Smell My Feet kit by Valorie Brown at One Story Down) + font (Claire Hand)

A Note from Celeste
I just adore orange and paired with a little kraft it's even better! This layout could be considered my ode to orange.

November Fun Fact
I'm looking forward to pajama day on Thanksgiving!

 

 

Favorite Color? | Kathy Martin

12 x 12 | < b>materials card stock (Bazzill Basics and Neenah Paper) + washi tape (Bella Blvd.) + buttons and twine (Doodlebug Design)

A Note from Kathy
Choosing a favorite color is like trying to pick a favorite book, movie or song. There’s just so many fabulous choices!

November Fun Fact
I’ve been known to pick red as a favorite color!

 

 

Peeler | Marnie Flores

(8.5 x 8.5) | materials patterned paper (Crystal Wilkerson) + arrow (photoshop) +parentheses (Crystal Wilkerson) + fonts

A Note from Marnie
I took a color test once. It asked you all sorts of questions using not just images but also adjectives, and emotional response questions. At the end it gives you two color families. My first was rosy pinks. I felt so exposed. I am totally a soft pink girl, but only in secret. My kids will tell you my favorite colors are orange, red, and black. I wear lots of bright colors (orange, lime green, turquoise blues) and decorate with fun pastel brights. But apparently, at the heart of me is soft pink. Paired with greige (a taupe-y grey) and I am at my most relaxed. That's what this layout is - my two secret favorites.

November Fun Fact
Poppy is getting baptized this month so we have family coming to town. That is rare for us so I have been on a decorating frenzy, trying to get everything to its ideal. Silly, I know. So far, we have switched two bedrooms, including closets and light fixtures. I have painted and rearranged the linen closet and the entry closet. (And by rearranged, I mean gutting and redoing!!) I have just pulled apart the pantry for a complete overhaul. I have painted one bedroom, with one to come tomorrow. And I am nearly finished a redo on the kids' bathroom, including a new mirror, cabinet, and light fixture. I have painted, spackled, and drywalled like a crazy woman. But with only 7 days to go, things are winding down and I am so very happy.

 

 

Week 40 – 2012 in 52 Pages | Alexandra Sirugue-Macleod

(8 x 8) | materials patterned paper (Heidi Swapp) + embellishments (Avery, Making Memories) + die cuts (Sizzix) + ink (Ranger) + font (Courier New)

A Note from Alexandra
This layout is 8 x 8 in. It is part of a project called «2012 in 52 Pages». Since January 2011, I have been scrapping a page a week that recaps the everyday of our lives. I’ve been making my photocollages under Picasa using quite a few photos taken with my iPhone. I love the various filters certain apps offer such as «Early Bird» in Instagram. I’ve always loved these faded colors. They have a timeless quality which I find very comforting.

November Fun Fact
I enjoy watching presidential debates so much I wish there were one every week!

 

 

Fools for Summer | Jennifer Larson

(12 x 12) | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Echo Park, Little Yellow Bicycle, Basic Grey) + embellishments (Studio Calico, We R Memory Keepers, Elle’s Studio, Technique Tuesday) + stickers (Basic Grey, American Crafts)

A Note from Jennifer
My absolute favorite color is yellow, but if I picked a favorite color family, it would be bright. Since most of the photos I’m taking now in the fall are more muted, I went back to some favorite photos from the summer to scrap. Bright colors, especially on a background of yellow, make me so happy, especially the closer we get to winter. In winter, I need to keep my summer brights in front of me.

November Fun Fact
In November I am looking forward to our annual Black Friday visit to the Mall of America. Seriously!

 

 

First Day | Erin Sweeney

(8.5 x 11) | materials patterned paper (My Mind’s Eye; KI Memories; American Crafts) + embellishments (Love, Elsie) + stickers (Making Memories; Studio Calico) + border punch (EK Success) 

A Note from Erin
You can’t tell it from the pictures, but Mackenzie was not at all excited about me taking pictures before her first day of 4’s preschool. She faked it well! Eventually I’ll add journaling, but I’m not sure what I want to say yet, so I’ve left it off.

November Fun Fact
Thanksgiving is my least favorite holiday. The Thanksgiving after Mackenzie was born (she was only a few weeks old) we skipped the family celebrations and stayed in our pajamas all day. We only got dressed when we went to Cracker Barrel for lunch and when we got home we got right back in them!

 

 

Color Full I Christa Paustenbaugh

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned papers (October Afternoon, Bo Bunny, Pebbles, Echo Park, My Mind’s Eye) + stickers (October Afternoon, Crate Paper) + chipboard (October Afternoon) + die cuts (Studio Calico, Banana Fish Studio, Jillibean Soup) + wood grain (Studio Calico) + twine (Ormolu) + washi tape (MT) + paint (Making Memories) + spray mist (Studio Calico) + die cut machine (Silhouette)

A Note from Christa
For this month’s gallery I went for a play on words instead of direct translation. I love this sunburst from Silhouette and wanted to add lots and lots of color to it with these bright patterned papers. Our youngest daughter has definitely brought lots of color and shades of color to our lives over the last 7+ years with much more to come! And yes, I spelled colorful wrong on purpose!

November Fun Fact
This November is shaping up to be a really great one with lots of fun! We get to put another stamp in our passport books with a Thanksgiving trip to Hong Kong. I’m beside myself with excitement for that trip!

 

 

I'm A Rockstar Ladies Love Me | Jennie McGarvey

(12 x 12) | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned paper (Authentique) + embellishments (Bananafish Studios, Marcy Penner, Maya Road, Chic Tags, My Mind's Eye, The Stringery)

A Note from Jennie
I chose these colors because some form of light blue/soft aqua/turquoise and red have been my favorites for a very, very long time -- plus grey is all my all time favorite color so it seemed right to combine them. It was awesome to pair them with this photo of my son with his funny antics!

November Fun Fact
Potatoes are my favorite food. I've never met a kind I don't like.

 

 

That's Hilarious | Kelly Jeppson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper, journaling card (Doodlebug Design) + letter sticker (American Crafts) + chipboard letters + buttons

A Note from Kelly
I love this yellow-green paper from Doodlebug. It is part of a line that features yellow, orange and navy blue. I thought they were perfect for this layout about my daughter, Josie. A departure from typical girl pink!

November Fun Fact
Last year I tasted my first "tofurkey" at Thanksgiving - my sister is a vegetarian. It was pretty tasty, but I'll stick to the real thing!

 

 

Love You Two | Amy Coose

(12 x 12) | materials cardstock (Bazzill) + patterned paper (Studio Calico, American Crafts) + tags (Chic Tags) + washi tape (Freckled Fawn) + index card (Lily Bee) + brad (Basic Grey) + sequin (Studio Calico) + stamps (Ali Edwards) + ink (Stampin Up!) + Silhouette Cameo, sewing machine

A Note from Amy
This layout came together just like I wanted it to.  I knew red needed to be the main color, and I remembered these pictures I had taken of my baby and his sister outside.  They were perfect.

November Fun Fact
I cannot have candy corn in my house.  It's not good for anyone.

 

 

happy together | Celeste Smith

(12 x 12) | materials digital kit (Sew Happy Collaboration by Mye DeLeon & The Ardent Sparrow at Design House Digital) + template (Grow with Love Letters March by Crystal Livesay at Design House Digital) + font (Century Gothic)

A Note from Celeste
Shh! Don't tell anyone, but secretly I wish I could scrap with more pink. I have two boys who are at an age where boys rule, girls drool. This means flowers and pink on pages are not appreciated. So I sneak it in where I can. For instance, I have free reign if I'm in the photo, the kitty has no beef with pink, and if I'm really wanting to scrap pink I can always snag a photo or two of my stunning niece!

November Fun Fact
On Thanksgiving Day, I have a pot all set up with onions, carrots, and celery just waiting for the turkey carcass. By 9:30 pm, the house is filled with the fabulous smell of turkey soup!

 

 

Shine | Christine Newman

(12 x 12) | materials cardstock (American Crafts, Bazzill) + patterned paper (Pebbles, Basic Grey) + vellum (Strathmore) + embellishments (Studio Calico, Divine Twine) + tape (American Crafts) + tag (Amy Tangerine) + Stickles (Ranger) + stamps (Technique Tuesday, Studio Calico) + ink (Jenni Bowlin) + digital die cutter (Silhouette)

A Note from Christine
My favorite colors to scrap with are light blue and yellow, because these colors make me happy and remind me of the sun and ocean. I live 15 minutes from the beach and I have a lot of photos that have blue in it. You will find that I have many blue papers in my stash. For this layout I wanted to convey sunshine and rays, and I repeat the theme throughout the layout with patterned paper, twine, die cuts, and wood veneers.

November Fun Fact
I will be running the Krispy Kreme Challenge in November, which consists of running 2 miles, eating 6 donuts, and then running another 2 miles!

 

 

Rainbow Balloons | Sarah Pendergrast

(12 x 12) | materials patterned paper (American Crafts, Studio Calico, Basic Grey, October Afternoon, Echo Park) + embellishments (Studio Calico, My Minds Eye, Freckled Fawn, American Crafts) + stickers (Making Memories, American Crafts)

A Note from Sarah
I had a hard time deciding on my favourite colour scheme, as I like a few, but when it comes to crafting, my favourite is rainbow! I’m always drawn to pages with bright rainbow colours, and it worked perfectly with this photo of rainbow balloons!

November Fun Fact
I’m actually terrified of balloons! I have to leave the room if one of the kids is playing with one.

 

 

Favorite? | Emily Spahn

(8.5 x 11) | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned paper (Studio Calico) + chipboard, stickers, thickers (American Crafts) + alphabet stickers (Basic Grey) + wood embellishments (Sodalicious) + washi tape (MT) + spray mist (Studio Calico)

A Note from Emily
My favorite color combination to use on a layout always seems to be some variation of yellow, orange, and aqua. I've had these Studio Calico Heyday papers sitting around for awhile, and I was happy to finally use them on a layout! This layout is also the very first I made with my brand new Cameo!

November Fun Fact
I love November! However, it seems like every year there is so much going on and everyone is always looking forward to December and the holidays that November becomes the forgotten month!! Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and I get a week off work…I wish November could last forever!

 

 

Complementary Colors | Amy Sorensen

12 x 12 | materials card stock (Bazzill) + ink (Close to My Heart) + hexagons (Silhouette) + LD Remington and Janda Elegant Handwriting fonts

A Note from Amy
My second-favorite hobby is quilting, and by sheer coincidence I picked up a quilting book from the hold shelf just a few days before I started working on my layout: We Love Color. The book is about using Kona solids (a line of gorgeous, well-crafted solid fabrics, the quilting equivalent of cardstock) for making quilts that showcase color. A perfect wellspring of inspiration for a gallery dedicated to color! The hexagons and the title design come directly from the book.

I had initially planned on doing a layout with my current favorite color combination, but when my sister and I had this conversation about Halloween colors, it was too perfect to pass up.

November Fun Fact
Since we were speaking about color, I confess: I have a little obsession lately with all things grey.It might just be the perfect neutral!

 

 

Maybe, Perhaps? | Emily Pitts

(12 x 12) | materials cardstock (Bazzill Basics) +patterned paper (Jillibean Soup, Crate Paper, Echo Park Paper Co.) + embellishments (Crate Paper) + alphabet (Crate Paper) + spray ink (Maya Mist) + stencil (Crafter's Workshop)

A Note from Emily
Maya Road has a spray mist called Fig Magenta. I am not a purple or pink fan, but for some reason, this color is one of my all time favorite, most used inks. It's just perfect. Pair it with turquoise and a mustardy yellow and I just swoon. I'm really into the 1970s color schemes right now, I used to find them ugly because I grew up with them, but now I use them a lot. A black and white photo, white or kraft background, it's the perfect combination!

November Fun Fact
I always wanted a plain gold band instead of a diamond for a wedding ring. After my first baby, my fingers grew and my band didn't fit and we just never got it sized. My grandmother passed away and my mom got all the jewelry. In the collection was a gorgeous plain gold band that belonged to my great great grandmother. It fits perfectly. My sisters prefer white gold. So guess who is wearing a vintage plain gold band? It makes me happy.

 

 

Lashes | Paula Gilarde

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Jillibean Soup) + patterned papers (Jillibean Soup)+ embellishments (7 Gypsies tape) + rub ons (American Crafts) + stencil (Crafters Workshop) + digital element (Katie Pertiet digital frame)

A Note from Paula
My favorite colors are green and blue. I nearly always use some green on my scrapbook layouts, somewhere. Currently my favorite color is teal - somewhere between blue and green.

Welcome, October!

Welcome, October! We are officially entering holiday season. This month brings Halloween, and then it is just a quick few weeks until Christmas! Okay, okay... I know. Let's not panic!

This month we have lots of fun in store! First, for the remainder of this week we have some very special guests. Deb Duty will be next, followed by our first collaborative theme week of the season to help us get in a spooky mood. Teka Cochonneau will be finishing up our month. Can't wait!!

And now, let's have a drumroll as it is 

A new month always brings a new gallery! This month, our theme is Pinterest Made Me Do It! For the past year, Pinterest has swept the online community. For scrapbookers, it is a dream come true as it is just so completely visual! With just a click, you can see specific loveliness. We thought you might like to see how Pinterest impacts us and affects the pages and projects we make!

Don't forget that there are now two ways to enjoy the layouts. You may scroll below, or you may click over to the photo album! The layouts will be full size in the photoalbum and the journaling will be available there, too! But again, you may stay right here and get a taste of each layout. Enjoy!

 

Sweet Girl | Katie Ehmann

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Crate Paper, Kesi'Art, Basic Grey, American Crafts, Hambly, October Afternoon) + embellishments (October Afternoon, Studio Calico, Ormolu, Prima, Kaiser Craft, My Mind's Eye) + stickers (American Crafts) + vellum + typewriter

Inspired by this pin. The original source may be found here.

A Note from Katie
I loved the circles in various muted tones and shades. I decided to go with a more monotone approach and only used colors that coordinated with my photo. I covered some of the punched circles with vellum.

October Fun Fact
While summer is my favorite season, I love October in Michigan. Pumpkin patches, cider mills, jumping in leaves, and Halloween are a few of my October loves. Plus, our neighborhood holds a scarecrow contest which is super fun and I most certainly plan on winning this year!

 

 

The View | Lisa Ottosson

Inspired by this pin.

A Note from Lisa
This page just happen to be inspired by one of Diane Payne's layouts! I have had it in my "Paper" board on Pinterest for a while and I love the tags with the journaling.

October Fun Fact
Do you know I have a series on my blog called From pin to reality? Yes, it is where I actually use all the cool stuff I pin to good use as inspiration! 

 

 

Life With a Brother is More Fun | Deb Duty

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Authentique, October Afternoon) + embellishments (Studio Calico, October Afternoon) + letter stickers (American Crafts, Pink Paislee, October Afternoon) + stamps (Studio Calico, Basic Grey)

Inspired by this pin. The original source may be found here.

A Note from Deb
I chose this layout to scraplift because I love the layers and the messy look. I did some misting and for the first time distressed the edges of my paper!

October Fun Fact
I am getting ready to go to my first crop in about 15 years!

 

 

Four | Diane Payne


12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Jillibean Soup) + embellishments (Jillibean Soup, Pebbles, Inc., Divine Twine)



Inspired by this pin. The original source may be found here.

A Note from Diane

I thought the colored tiles with the paint swatches below made a great design for a layout and used it as a sketch. I substituted bold bright colors for the subtle hues and added my photo, jounaling and embellishment cluster to right of the design.


October Fun Fact

October is my favorite month of the year!

 

Spring Recital I Christa Paustenbaugh

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned papers (Jenni Bowlin Studios) + stickers (Jenni Bowlin Studios) + plastic flower (Jenni Bowlin Studios) + chipboard (Jenni Bowlin) + jewels (Making Memories) + stamp (Jenni Bowlin)

Inspired by this pin. The original source may be found here.

A Note from Christa
I loved the quilted look of this Pinterest piece and wanted to replicate that in part of my layout. I cut 2” squares and cut them into triangles to all fit together in the same pattern as the quilt. I then stitched it to look more like a quilt effect.

October Fun Fact
This is the first year we won’t have to worry about it being too cold on Halloween to wear non long sleeved costumes. Living in a sub-tropical climate has its advantages, one of them being short sleeves and shorts while going out trick or treating!

 

On My Mind | Jennifer Larson

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts, Bazzill) + patterned paper (Studio Calico, Echo Park, My Mind’s Eye, American Crafts, Kesi'Art) + embellishments (Studio Calico) + stickers (American Crafts, Pink Paislee) + punch (EK Success) + circle cutter (Coluzzle) + ink (Jenni Bowlin) + fonts (Times New Roman)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Jennifer Larson
I am a wonderful pinner-from-Pinterest but a lazy creator-from-Pinterest. As a result, I purposefully scrolled back to find inspiration from one of my oldest pins. I found a pin from the Indigo Bunting back from March, which made me want to scrap a page of what’s on my mind, using the various-sized circles as inspiration.

October Fun Fact
I will be running in my fourth 5K this month, which is definitely on my mind right now!

 

Smile | Valerie O'Neall

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + vellum (Strathmore) + markers (Copic) + stamps (American Crafts, My Mind's Eye) + snapshots tag (Elle's Studio) + stamp ink (Staz On)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Valerie
This layout was inspired by a camera illustration by Dan Gnelding of Grayhood Design & Illustration.
This was such a fun challenge! It was actually a little hard to narrow it down and find the one pin I wanted to use as inspiration. I also had a lot of fun trying out this new technique with the vellum and Copic Airbrush System that I've had in my head for awhile. It worked almost as well as I imagined.

October Fun Fact
I just finished reading Kisses from Katie by Katie Davis. LOVED it! I want to buy multiple copies and lend it to everyone I know.

 

Inspired by Pinterest | Kathy Martin

12 x 12 | < b>materials card stock (Bazzill Basics) + patterned paper (My Mind’s Eye and Teresa Collins) + embellishments (Fancy Pants, Love My Tapes, My Mind’s Eye, Pebbles, Tim Holtz)

Inspired by this board.

A Note from Kathy Martin
I’ve been keeping a crochet and knitting board on Pinterest even though I don’t know how to do either. Just a couple weeks ago I decided to take the plunge and found a YouTube tutorial saved on my board and taught myself to crochet.

August Fun Fact
I finished the scarf and look forward its snuggly warmth around my neck this winter. I’m currently working on a blanket and I’m a quarter of the way done!

 

Cusp | Francine Clouden

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Dear Lizzy, Amy Tangerine, American Crafts) + chipboard stickers (American Crafts) + stickers (American Crafts, Amy Tangerine) + stamp (Dear Lizzy) + brad (Amy Tangerine) + masking tape + baker's twine + mini clothespins

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Francine
As soon as I saw this ad on Pinterest I added it to my inspiration board. I just loved the large photo with the hanging tags, twine and mini clothespins. The great thing about inspiration is that you don't have to use everything, just the elements that stand out to you, You will notice that my layout has nothing to do with the holidays.

October Fun Fact
I'm looking forward to cracking open the first butternut squash from our garden this month.

 

Milo | Celeste Smith

12 x 12 | materials digital kit (Daydream by Tracy Martin at One Story Down) + alphabet (Noted Alphabet by Valorie Brown at One Story Down) + font (Traveling Typewriter)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Celeste
When I saw these pretty stitched cakes, I knew I wanted to use a white on white stitched background on a page. I love how the stitching gives the background some nice texture and draws the eye from the top left corner to the heart of the page.

October Fun Fact
Last year, Halloween was cancelled in our town due to a crazy early snowstorm that downed power lines and trees. The boys were so unhappy. They can't wait to get to trick-or-treat again this year!

 

NYC | Paula Gilarde

12 x 12 | materialscardstock (Core'dinations) + embellishments (Jillibean Soup twine and buttons) + stickers (Cosmo Cricket, October Afternoon, Studio Calico)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Paula
I've always been a collector of memorabilia. Even before I started scrapbooking, I used to save my tickets stubs and bits and pieces from places I visited. I occasionally try to incorporate one or two into my layouts but when I saw this layout by Amanda Jones on Pinterest, I was inspired to use ALL the ephemera I collected from our trip to NYC. It's a fun way to remember everything we did. In fact, I liked it so much that I pinned it twice!

October Fun Fact
I'm looking forward to the return of chilly weather so that I have an excuse to spend time indoors working on all the crafty projects that I've pinned!

 

be-YOU-tiful | Teka Cochonneau

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Jillibean Soup, Sassafrass) + embellishments (Jillibean Soup, Studio Calico) + stickers (Jillibean Soup) + stamps (Studio Calico) + washi (October Afternoon)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Teka
Pinterest is one of my favorite inspirational sites. I use it for ideas for backgrounds, colors, quotes, tutorials and so much more. Today I wanted to use a title from a cool quirky sign that is originally from Etsy.

October Fun Fact
October makes me want to cook. For some reason I crave curry when the weather starts to cool.

 

Rides | Vivian Masket

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill Basics) + patterned paper (October Afternoon) + flashcard (October Afternoon) + washi tape (October Afternoon) + stickers (October Afternoon) + die cutting machine (Silhouette) + font (Typenoksidi)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Vivian
I love the look of confetti, but I find the mess of it daunting. I solved that problem my creating reverse confetti. I used a Silhouette cut file that contained multiple different shapes and then simply backed it with a vibrant patterned paper to create a fun confetti-look background for my layout…with one-step gluing rather than gluing down a hundred pieces of confetti..

October Fun Fact
October is my favorite month of the year. It always brings both our first snow and lots of days in the 80s (sometimes after the first snow!). The colors are just gorgeous everywhere we go.

 

Today | Alexandra Sirugue-Macleod

8.5 x 11 | materials paper and stamps (Penny Black) + glassine envelope and tag (Staples)+ paper clip (Target) + alphabets (Quickutz)

Inspired by this layout.

A Note from Alexandra
I love Laura’s fresh style and was inspired to lift the design of her page. It is an 8 1/2 by 11 inch page and it bears the same title "Today." The stamp and patterned paper (Madison collection)are from Penny Black. I used white ink and white embossing powder to stamp/heat emboss the border (Puzzle Parts) over a wash of water colors. The glassine bag is adhered underneath the stamped image and allows for more journaling to be tucked away.

October Fun Fact
While attending the Sorbonne, I worked as a bookie every morning!

 

More | Amy Sorensen

12 x 12 | materials patterened paper (Crate Paper, Echo Park, Pebbles) + alpha stickers (Basic Grey) + pennants (Silhouette) + fonts (Origin, Cafe Rojo)

A Note from Amy
My layout was inspired by two different pins. The first one wasn't actually pinned in Pinterest though! I first clicked on this pin that Lisa Kisch had pinned to the WCS Write board. Then I followed the link to the original website, The Handmade Home, and while browsing her blog I found this post (which has a funny bit about comic sans), which introduced me to the font Cafe Rojo. When I saw it I was like,hmmmmm, that looks just like a Basic Grey alpha sticker. So I dug around in my drawers until I found one. (These happen to be from their Lemonade line but there are several Basic Grey stickers that match this font nearly exactly.)

Still with me?

My next step down the inspiration path was to this pin also done by Lisa in the WCS Write board. I loved the repetition of the word "more," so I went digging through photos to find some that would work. The thing I loved about this process is that I might never have scrapped these pictures, because they're not very good—bad indoor lighting and grainy results. But they fit so well with the idea that I went ahead and used them anyway!

October Fun Fact
Back in September I told you I'd be trying to finish my son Kaleb's dinosaur quilt. I didn't quite manage to finish it, but the entire top is pieced and I'll start quilting it soon!

 

Shaved Ice | Erin Sweeney

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (KI Memories, Scenic Route, Studio Calico, My Mind’s Eye) + stickers (American Crafts)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Erin
I pinned this game to my Halloween board since I’m starting to gather ideas for Mackenzie’s preschool Halloween party. I drew my inspiration from the buckets - replicating the circles and placing them on top of strips of patterned paper, just as the buckets are on rectangles of concrete.

October Fun Fact
My baby has just turned 2, which means I officially no longer have a baby, but rather a toddler. Let the terrible two’s begin!

 

Scenes | Emily Spahn

8.5 x 11 | materials {Gossamer Blue kit}: patterned paper (Bella Blvd, Jillibean Soup, October Afternoon) + alphabet stickers (Webster's Pages, Jillibean Soup, Prima Marketing) + buttons (Bella Blvd) + die cut tags (Chic Tags) + washi tape (Bella Blvd) + twine (Lawn Fawn) + cardstock (American Crafts) + border punch (Fiskars)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

October Fun Fact
October is a month that I have a love/hate relationship with. I love everything about fall…apple picking, the pumpkin patch, football games, etc. However, I do not love that we tend to be busy with said fun activities every single weekend! We are definitely a busy family that's always on the move! But, I wouldn't change it for anything…before we know it, the snow will be here!!

 

Rockin’ Her Birthday Duds | Sarah Pendergrast

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts) + embellishments (October Afternoon, Studio Calico) + mask (Studio Calico) + mist (Studio Calico)+ stickers (American Crafts Thickers)

Inspired by this pin.

October Fun Fact
I’m secretly jealous of my daughter’s obsession with everything “rockstar.” I can only wish I was as “cool” when I was a kid! I have a feeling though she’ll eventually end up like me, a sporty nerd. ;)

 

Count | Emily Pitts

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill Basics) + patterned papers, alphabet, stickers (Simple Stories) + floss (DMC) + chipboard (Maya Road) + embossing powder (Prima) + thread (Coats & Clark) + pen (EK Success)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Emily
I am not a huge fan of the hexagon shape, but pull it out like this and I find it really cool. I knew it would be easy to replace one of the hexagons with a photo, but was worried how to do that with the precision it required.

AH HA moment—a template! I hand cut an elongated hexagon that would fit over the photo, traced it in the middle of a large piece of paper and then cut it out again so I’d have a template to use when I cut the photo so it would fit perfectly in the shape. I used the same template to create all the shapes, hand cut them, and then moved everything around until it looked right.

I wasn’t too sure how to place my title, I usually don’t block one like this, but by leaving the top left and bottom right of the design open so you’d have a visual place to enter, see the title inside the shape, move to the photo, and then exit through the other space. I am happy with how it turned out.

A hand-stitched title supported the playful feel I was going for, and the happy and energetic repeated pattern is fun, kind of quirky, and full of life, very much like my daughter and her dear friend.

October Fun Fact
If my life were a movie, I’d want Drew Barrymore to play me. I also really like the subjunctive tense.

 

Our New Normal | Marnie Flores

12 x 12 | materials patterned papers & elements (Crystal Wilkerson) + font (KG Call Me Maybe)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Marnie
I loved all the colors and the banners and well, just everything about Nicole's layout. I added in a place for journaling at the bottom because I just didn't want to detract from that top left hand corner white space!!

October Fun Fact
Last summer, Costco had a lifesize skeleton guy for sale. My kids convinced my sweet spouse to buy it (something which I am sure took all of .01 milliseconds!). Today is the day the scary guy gets to come play. They are soooooo excited!

 

Dare Greatly | Marnie Flores

8 x 10 | materials patterned papers (Crystal Wilkerson) + ruler (Lori Whitlock) + elements (Jen Barrett Designs) + font (dropping tears sans)

Inspired by this pin. The original source is here.

A Note from Marnie
The beauty of Pinterest is that once you find something you love, you click on the designer and then suddenly lose yourself and fall in love with all sorts of other things. Then you try to make one just like it. Then you realize that you need to just be yourself. Then magic can happen. Just need to let go. That's the hardest part.

Before we go, we wanted to let you know that one of our partners is having a sale! Blurb is offering 15% off any book you create with promo code FALL15OFFBOOK. As the cold weather season begins, a Blurb book makes the perfect indoor project for the entire family. Plus, with Blurb, you can create a photo book by uploading your Instagram and Facebook images! Don't let your pictures sit in a camera. Capture your favorite moments today and create a photo book that you can cherish for a lifetime. Enjoy creating your Blurb Book today! Be sure to click through the link to let them know we sent you!

That's it! Another amazing gallery from our equally amazing write. click. scrapbook. team!Thank you, dear readers, for stopping by and please leave a comment for our designers letting them know how much you loved their layouts!

Welcome, September!

September is here. This month, not only will the leaves begin to change; so, too, does our format. We hope you enjoyed this year's summertime dailies. A delightful smattering of technique, permissions, and inspirations, our summertime dailies are a carefree schedule for a carefree season.

But school is back in session and so are we! Our weekly author series return beginning Monday. This month, you can look forward to the reading the wit and wonder of Marnie Flores, Francine Clouden, Monika Wright, and Kathy Martin.

They have four weeks of top notch content ready for you--we look forward to seeing you each day as you stop by for some scrapbooking fun and learning. If you haven't already, you may want to consider subscribing to the our feed, then you won't miss a thing! Just click the subscribe button up there and to the right in the grey navigation bar!!

 

A new month always brings a new gallery! And this month, the theme is Looking Back. September seemed the perfect season to look back and document a change, a memory, or something that you hadn't yet. We hope you enjoy our layouts! And now, you have two ways to enjoy the layouts. You may scroll below, or you may click over to the photo album! The layouts will be full size in the photoalbum and the journaling will be available there, too! But now, you may stay right here and get a taste of each layout. We hope that allows you to comment on the projects more easily and to let each designer know how much you appreciate the time and effort they spend to bring you a little artistic love! Enjoy!

 

The More Things Change | Francine Clouden

12x12 | materials patterned paper (October Afternoon, Studio Calico, Crate Paper) + chipboard stickers (October Afternoon) + stickers (Glitz Design, Authentique) + Bingo Card (Jenni Bowlin) + button + spray inks

A Note from Francine
This page documents Kieran’s abiding love for hummus. He is 8 months old in the first photo, and 21 months old in the second. Looking back at the first photo from the perspective of the second is when I first realized how much he had changed from being a baby!

September Fun Fact
I can’t believe I am saying this but I am actually looking forward to cooler autumn days. Not winter though, never winter!

 

 

Little House | Katie Ehmann

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Echo Park, My Mind's Eye, Tim & Beck for Studio Calico, Simple Stories) + embellishments (My Mind's Eye, Studio Calico, Freckled Fawn) + stickers (American Crafts, October Afternoon)

A Note from Katie
I took this photo of my grandparent's old house a few months before it was demolished. I spent much of my childhood visiting this house, and am so grateful that I have these memories documented. I hand cut the big patterned paper heart with pinking shears and then cut it again, flipping the outer heart to make the contrasting border. I used wood veneer hearts as embellishments to tie the theme together.

September Fun Fact
I love September because it is the start of the college football season and I get to watch my alma mater, the University of Michigan Wolverines play in The Big House! There is nothing like cheering them on with over 107,501 screaming fans! Go Blue!

 

 

Looking Back | Diane Payne


12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (October Afternoon, Pebbles Inc.) + embellishments (October Afternoon, A Flair for Buttons, Studio Calico, My Paper Shop, Milky Way Jewelry, Whisker Graphics) + stickers (October Afternoon, Basic Grey)



A Note from Diane

With the theme this month I thought it would be fun to reflect on where I've been since I was a little girl and what I wish I would have done a little differently along the way. I hope this layout will give future generations a better idea of what I find important.


September Fun Fact

When I was a little girl, my parents took us on two week long summer vacations by car. It brings back fond memories for me and is probably why I love road trips so much!

 

 

Remember | Emily Spahn



8.5 x 11 | materials {Gossamer Blue kit}: patterned paper (Echo Park, Pebbles, My Mind’s Eye) + cardstock (Stampin’ Up!) + buttons (October Afternoon) + resin flowers (Prima) + chipboard buttons (My Mind’s Eye) + chipboard alphabet (American Crafts) + twine (October Afternoon) + die cut (October Afternoon) + metal flower (EK Success) + journaling sticker (My Mind’s Eye)>



A Note from Emily

A long time ago I printed out a bunch of 5x7 photos. I don’t know why I love this one so much…something about the “everyday-ness” of it all. It’s even more special now, as our dog in the photo passed away earlier this year. I love recording these simple ordinary memories.






September Fun Fact

September is my favorite month. It’s my birthday month, but I especially love it because it signals the beginning of fall! I can’t wait for sweater weather, football games, changing leaves, and all of the other amazing parts of fall.

 

 

First Father's Day | Valerie O'Neall

8.5 x 11 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned paper (Sassafras, My Mind's Eye, and Crate Paper) + circle tags (Elle's Studio) + mask and mist (Studio Calico) + alpha stickers (October Afternoon) + stamp (American Crafts Dear Lizzy) + other (buttons, shipping tags, twine, and date stamp)

A Note from Valerie
I don't have a school-age child yet, so I decided on this photo to look back on from my hubby's first Father's Day. I started with a very neutral black and grey color scheme, but a little color ended up finding it's way onto the layout.

September Fun Fact
I'm canning for the first time ever this year. I've had a garden for four(?) years now, but this is the first time I've had enough excess for canning and been brave enough to try it.

 

 

Then - Now | Lisa Ottosson

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Amy Tangerine) + embellishments (Sweet Shoppe.com Kristin Cronin-Barrow, iloveitall on etsy)

A Note from Lisa
Late August always makes me look back on the year and several years as my daughters birthday is August 31st. This year she turns 13…

I wanted to quickly add that the now and then circles are from a digital kit that is called For the love of: conversation. It was bought at Sweet Shoppe.com.

Also, when I went to look for older photos of Myrra (the dog) and Stina (my daughter) I couldn´t find any although I know we have several. I really wanted to include some of them on this page, so I dug out our old home videos and took screen shots! The photos are terrible of course, but the memories are surely not! The older photos are held in the glassine bag.

September Fun Fact
Right now I am freaking out about officially being a mom of a teenager!

 

 

A Day to Remember | Vivian Masket

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill Basics) + patterned paper (October Afternoon) + mini-album pages (October Afternoon) + die cuts (October Afternoon) + stickers (October Afternoon) + chipboard (October Afternoon) + pen (Sakura) + font (Typenoksidi) 




A Note from Vivian

Mini-album pages, used as both a journaling spot and patterned paper, helped me to pull this layout together quickly.

September Fun Fact

I created this layout while on vacation at my parents’ house, not far from the beach where this photo was taken.

 

 

Third Grade 2012 | Jennifer Larson

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (Bazzill) + patterned paper (Pebbles, October Afternoon) + tags (Elle’s Studio, Studio Calico) + stickers (Pebbles) + floss (DMC) + templates (Bazzill) + pen (Zig)

A Note from Jennifer Larson
I am terribly behind on school photos. Rather than going back over a year to create layouts for each milestone event, I put them all on one page, using a circle ( and many more circles!) to symbolize the year.

September Fun Fact
I teach high school English, and let me tell you, the teachers are just as nervous and excited on day one as the kids are!

 

 

here's the story | Celeste Smith

12 x 12 | materials kit (One Little Bird & Sahlin Studio Worn at The Lilypad) + masks(Robyn Meierotto Cut It Out at Design House Digital) + stitching(Robyn Meierotto In Stitches Neutrals at Design House Digital) + frame (Kitschy Digitals Vintage Photo Frames at Kitschy Digitals)

A Note from Celeste
This is the last photo I have to my mom and dad with me. We weren't much of a photo taking family. I wish I had more! Unfortunately, this story is a little sad. My father is now having chemotherapy and has a long road to travel. We are hoping for the best!

September Fun Fact
My oldest started middle school this year. It's amazing I'm excited and nervous for him all at the same time. Let's hope he catches on to it quickly - he's my forgetful one!

 

 

8 Years | Kathy Martin

12 x 12 | < b>materials cardstock (Bazzill Basics) + patterned paper (Little Yellow Bicycle) + embellishments (American Crafts, Jillibean Soup, May Arts, Bella Blvd)

A Note from Kathy
This October marks eight years since we moved cross country from Hollister, California to North Carolina. It’s amazing to think back through these years and how much has changed and how we’ve grown as a family.

September Fun Fact
There’s actually a Hollister, California, but it’s not a beach community like the famous Hollister clothing company. We lived in Hollister for six years. It’s a small town between San Jose and the Monterey Bay surrounded by world famous farms. Most notorious are the strawberries from Watsonville, but there’s also Gilroy, the garlic capital of the world and Castroville which is the artichoke capital of the world.

 

 

Looking Back | Monika Wright

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Pebbles) + embellishments, letter stickers, border (Pebbles) + flapper, flair button (Ormolu) + sewing machine (Singer) + punch, die cut (Stampin’ Up) + shipping tag, chipboard (craft supply)

 

A Note from Monika 
Looking Back...this month’s theme. So I literally went looking back to a stack of photos that have been calling out for some attention and pulled this photo of my now 20-year old son. This photo was printed 3 years ago at which time I sat down and wrote some journaling about the photo. How’s that for looking back on a photo taken 17 years ago and journaling written 3 years ago finally coming to life on a layout.

September Fun Fact 
I haven’t ridden a bike since I was in my teens. My husband earned incentive points through his company and chose a bike for me, which I am guessing means I need to get my little tooshie on and actually now ride. Watch out girls, Mama’s on two wheels!

 

 

My Fish School Bag | Deb Duty

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, American Crafts, October Afternoon) + embellishments (Studio Calico, October Afternoon, Prima, My Paper Shop) + letter stickers (October Afternoon) + stamps (Studio Calico)

A Note from Deb
With the theme this month, I decided to go way back. I've been scanning old photos from my mother's house. This was the first day of preschool when I was about to be four. I have such a bad memory so it's really nice to have old photos to help remind me of things I had forgotten.

September Fun Fact
When I was little I so wanted hair like Marcia Brady. I was very happy when I got my first Chi flat iron about ten years ago. Finally I can have straight hair! I've been flat ironing it ever since. I wear it curly (which is better described as frizzy) very rarely.

 

 

Looking Back | Paula Gilarde

12 x 12 | materials template (Meant to Be Layered Template (Katie Pertiet)) + metallics (Lynn Grieveson) + labels (Banner Labels No. 1 (Katie Pertiet)) + title stickers (Wooden Alpha No. 8 (Katie Pertiet))

A Note from Paula
I can't believe I've know these girls for almost 20 years. It makes me feel old! We got together recently and it made me think about all the fun times we had over the years.

 

 

Blessed Love Happy | Teka

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (Jillibean Soup) + embellishments (My Minds Eye) + Bling (Recollections) + Twine (Jillibean Soup)

A Note from Teka
I love using products on a page that are leftovers from other projects. Makes me feel "green". The kraft banner is actually a page left over from a mini I did for Jillibean Soup.

September Fun Fact
I always feel the most creative in the morning after a fresh cup of coffee.

 

 

Little Red Tricycle | Erin Sweeney

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (My Mind’s Eye, Studio Calico, American Crafts) + embellishments (K & Company) + letter stickers (American Crafts) 

A Note from Erin
I printed these pictures 2 years ago, yet somehow they never got scrapbooked. As Mackenzie will be turning five soon, it’s fun to look back at her as a toddler.

September Fun Fact
I lose things. Often. I’ve lost two sets of keys with the remote keyless entry – both after driving home. How does that happen?

 

 

& Time Flies I Christa Paustenbaugh

12 X 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts, Crate Paper, Echo Park) + patterned papers (Studio Calico) + stickers (Crate Paper) + wood veneer (Studio Calico, Studio Calico) + brads (My Mind’s eye) + chipboard (American Crafts, Studio Calico) + flair (A Flair for Buttons Etsy Shop) + wood veneer (Studio Calico) + twine (Ormolu) + die cut machine (Silhouette SD)

A Note from Christa
The theme for this month came at just the right time for me, but also broke my heart in half too. My oldest is getting ready to start her final year of elementary school so I dug up an old photo from when she was starting her elementary school journey at the ripe old age of 5. I see the physical changes in her, but also remember all the emotional and mental changes too. She’s starting her 4th different school this year and I couldn’t be more proud of how resilient she is!

September Fun Fact
I love September: the crisp air, football get togethers and a regular routine in our house. This year is a bit different though: no crisp air in September in a tropical climate and those football parties will be during the week after the games are already played in the States! It’ll be a new normal for us!

 

 

1976 | Sarah Pendergrast

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Basic Grey, Jillibean Soup, My Minds Eye) + embellishments (October Afternoon, Studio Calico, Banana Fish Studio, K & Co) + stickers (American Crafts. October Afternoon) + tools (QuicKutz, Silhouette, Martha Stewart)

A Note from Sarah
My design was inspired by a Hambly overlay. I used butterfly punches and die cuts to replicate the design using a yellow gradient.

September Fun Fact
I’m the youngest of five kids, and the closest to me in age is seven years older. It was a happy mix of being a bit spoiled as the “baby” and an only child at the same time!

 

 

Looking Back | Alexandra Sirigue-McLeod

 

Still Here | Amy Sorensen

12 x 12 | materials paisley stamps (Close to My Heart) + round swirly stamp (Hero Arts) + fleur-de-lis and bird on a stem stamps (unknown) + StazOn ink (Tsukineko) + markers (Copic) + clock hands (Silhouette) + ribbon + Samo Sans and Janda Stylish Script fonts

A Note from Amy
For the stamped border, I wanted a colorful swirl of pattern and bright hues.To make it, I stamped with big stamps, letting the images come out a little messy and soft so they could blend into each other. Then I just had fun coloring in all the blank spaces. I wrote the journaling in a similar way, with run-on sentences and ampersands and a stream-of-consciousness feel.

September Fun Fact
My September goal is to finally finish the quilt I've been working on for my seven-year-old. Since he was four. The only good thing about my procrastination is that now I know to make it bigger than I had originally planned. Someone should check up on me!

 

 

Two Years Later | Marnie Flores

8.5 x 8.5 | materials patterned paper (Creativity by Crystal, Crystal Wilkerson) + fonts (Josefin Sans Std, Bebas)

A Note from Marnie
I thought for this month's gallery, I would be putting together a layout comparing all three kids on their first day of kindergarten. But when I opened the folder for Poppy's first day, I saw this picture. And knew that this was the story that needed to be told.

September Fun Fact
I have something every single day this month. And on a couple of days, we have three places to be at the same time!! It's going to be a fun month!

 

Bike | Kelly Jeppson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts) + letter cut-outs (BasicGrey) + circle punch + white gel pen

A Note From Kelly
My parents gave all the kids in my family a cd of "vintage" family photos, and this is one of my favorites from the collection. It's a photo of me and my cousins with my grandpa, who passed away when I was pretty young. We used to all go on bike rides together, with me on the back of Grandpa's bike because I was too young to keep up with the big kids. I know that the photo is grainy - it was probably taken circa 1980.

September Fun Fact
My husband just bought me a road bike - I'm still trying to figure out how to shift! And I think she needs an Italian name, as she's a Specialized "Dolce" model. Any suggestions?

 

Thank you, write. click. scrapbook. team for creating a most beautiful gallery! And thank you, dear readers, for spending your precious time with us! We hope you feel inspired to create some fun today!

Welcome, August!

This month, we are giving in to the heat, the humidity, and the final few lazy days. We are hoping to put our feet up and breathe in the last sights and sounds of summer: the squeals of outdoor laughter, the roar of the lawn mower, the glorious long golden light of summer evening skies, the warmth of the suns rays on our healthy summer glowing skin. Soon, alarms will be ringing, backpacks will be zipping, and school busses will be arriving. But for now, we will revel in summer's greatest glory: its parting days.

This month our team put together a gallery for you that celebrates all that is summer. Its sights, sounds, memories, and rhythms. We hope you enjoy our hard work and hope it inspires a few pages of your own!

Introducing, Summer Lovin'...

Thank you for stopping by to take in the new gallery. This month, we would love to hear about something that caught your eye as you browsed through our pages. Please leave us a comment or two with things you loved. One lucky comment will take home a few scrapbooking goodies from EK Success! Look for a lucky number on Saturday, August 4th! Thanks, again, for stopping by. We adore you, our loyal, delightful, wonderful readers!

Welcome, July!

It is July! Summer is in full heat here above the equator!! We hope that you are enjoying your summer and our Summertime Dailies!!

While tomorrow is the first of the month, you know we like our Sundays quiet, and we are super excited to share our big news with you, so we are here today, rather than Monday! We hope you don't mind! Before we get to our new gallery, let's start with our exciting announcement!!

 

While we thought it was fun to announce that we were having a talent search, it doesn't at all compare to announcing our decision! Before we do, please know that we were humbled to receive your applications and wish we had room for you all! We love that our message can also be found in so many places and through so many designers. Thank you, dear applicants, for helping spread the word that simple is stunning!

 

Without further ado, please put your hands together for ...

Jennifer Larson

and

Katie Ehmann

 

Yes, it's true, we picked two!! Jennifer and Katie, we are so very happy to have you on our team! We know that you will be fantastic additions to our little family and know that the readers are going to love you as much as we already do!! And we are looking forward to sharing the talents of the finalists with you as well in the upcoming months!

 

The theme this month, is Five is Fun! Every now and again, we like to challenge ourselves (and you!) to limit the number of products we put on a layout. And even though we try to begin with the required five products, sometimes five items can suddenly become five groups, or five items plus one (or six!), or five if you don't include paper. Or maybe you need to stretch to five by counting up the fonts separately!!

No worries, we bought some doughnuts for the scrapbook police so hurry and count out your five'ish products while the uniforms are distracted!

 

We are, of course, teasing! Because the scrapbook police aren't real, you may choose as many as you wish. But know that sometimes it is fun to try something new! Perhaps you can begin by finding your three favorites and then building your layout from there. With all the summer activities you have planned, sneaking in a five product layout before breakfast might be the perfect way to get a layout or two finished, too! And still have time for a hike or a swim! Just like our team did!

So take five! Products, that is, and have fun with a Five is Fun! layout!