Write. Click. Scrapbook.

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!

In Review

Hard to believe, but it is the fourth Saturday already. Which means we get to look back at the month and all that we have seen. 

Erin began the month with an honest assessment of Project Life and some terrific suggestions for how to make our 2013 efforts more successful. Amy wrote our journaling column this month, listing three resolutions that she made to improve her journaling this year. (And if Amy needs to improve, the rest of use are in trouble!! heehee!)

Sarah's week kept us all in stitches and helped remind us to let our funny bones show in our albums. Lisa finished the week with her photography article, and several good ideas for improving our self portraits--hopefully inspiring us to get out from behind the lens to be in our own photos.

Next, Diane offered us ideas for getting the men in our lives into our photos and onto our photos. Diane also provided the sketch from our gallery this month, with Marnie adding in a color scheme and a trendalert.

Lastly, Valerie built upon Lisa's suggestions for taking more self portraits by inspiring us to create self-pages. (That's a good term, no? Self pages? I suppose it doesn't matter what we call them as long as we make them, right?)

 

Before the calender turns its page, let's look one more time back at our gallery. The sneaks for next month's gallery are on the Facebook page, which means we are close to a new theme! Speaking of Facebook, if you haven't added us as an interest, please remember to do so. Without it, you won't see all our lovely posts! As a reminder, click open the "like button" so that it opens the drop down menu. From there, you have to choose "add to interests list." If you haven't a particular interest group yet defined, you can do so now (we might suggest "awesome scrapbooking sites"). Remember, once you do this, our posts will show up on your wall. Otherwise, the powers that be at Facebook want us to pay for you to receive our content. And well, that's just silly now.

 

As we walk together through the gallery, let's look for successful and inspirational elements. Things we can use to help make our pages better.

Look how Francine combines a font oft used in sports for a layout filled with soft hues and flowery elements. The juxtaposition is fantastic!

The little elephant in Aliza's title is the perfect example of how her pages are layered with details that need to be discovered by looking at them again and again.

Celeste is the master of shading. No one would ever believe this layout was digital. Never.

Marnie's layout celebrates the happiness of the moment with color, and cheerful elements. All working together to tell the story.

Francine's layout talks about making making the most of the mundane moments, which is brought to life by her use of the bright yellow. Such a little thing to help tell her story so well.

Did you notice all the little bits tucked under the middle of Celeste's layout? Helping to tell the story of her needing notes? Again, using tiny elements to help tell the story.

The new small size of Lisa's layout is awesome! The grey is the perfect backdrop for the red of the flowers, too, helping them pop off the page.

How many of you took photos on 10.10.10 or 11.11.11 or 12.12.12? Let Katie's layout inspire you to get them scrapbooked! And perhaps string up a few sequins like she did. They are so pretty. Clever embellishment idea.

Jenny's layout is a splendid journaling example. Such a tremendous idea! Emily's has a similar theme, listing advice for a former self. Christa focused hers on her 18 year old self. All of them are equally amazing. These are the kind of layouts that you will treasure for years to come. 

Kathy's layout has such a fantastic pairing of stark black and vellum elements. Each makes the other stand out more.

Do you see the same date stamp on Deb's layout as Katie's? While you are looking, notice all the arrows. They are so subtle, yet so effective en masse.

Valerie's layout is so tender. Perhaps made all the moreso by her not having used a photo. It just goes to show that you really don't have to have a photo to create a heartfelt, meaningful layout.

Did you read that Jennie used a photo that sits on her dresser? What terrific inspiration for us to do the same.

All the little wooden elements on Amy's pages help provide a warm coziness to her otherwise bright layout. It brings in the perfect bit of homeyness, especially when paired with the little houses. (And did you see that cute little face on her baby? Mmm!)

The bits of cloud, sky, and butterflies are so perfect for Diane's photo. Have you ever had a photo that so helped to guide your layout??

Christine's layout is filled with loveliness. The airmail edge helps give it the feel of a letter. The backwards staple and the hand drawn arrows give it a personal sense. Which goes well with the personal journaling! Unified layouts have such peaceful balance.

Paula's layout has a funny funny story. If you haven't read it yet, go now. We'll wait... Sweet, no? Have you had something old pop into your head lately? Perhaps the next time you do, you can hurry and make a page like Paula did.

Erin's layout is a reminder to take a moment and write about motherhood. Or something else equally important to you right now. Written with real heartfelt journaling. The kind Amy would be proud of.

Speaking of Amy, her layout begins as a letter to her daughter, but really is a chance for her to express herself. A nice way to let your feelings show.

Kelly's layout is a simple acknowledgment of a lovely characteristic of her daughter. Sometimes pages really can just be so sweet and simple.

Marnie's layout uses a font that is reminiscent of a Sharpie. What a perfect thing for a note one leaves one's self. Sometimes there really is a perfect font for a layout.

Lisa repurposed some old jewelry for her flower embellishment. What a terrific way to maintain a budget and be good to Mother Earth!

Thank you to the collective for some wonderful inspiration this month! And thank you, dear readers, for your loyal visits!

Those Were the Days

Let's dust off that shoebox you have stored somewhere in your home that is full of old photos. Today I challenge you to take a walk down memory lane and scrapbook a photo or two from your childhood. I LOVE looking at photos from my childhood, and despite the color cast and poor image quality, they still deserve a spot in my scrapbooks. I often don't have the exact year or much of any journaling to go with the earliest ones, but look at that little girl! That's me! It's part of my story.

So I end the week with some inspiring layouts from the collective. Let's ooh and ahh over all these cute photos of our much younger selves. Thanks for spending the week with me!

Here's me on my first birthday. I love the all the white space and the simplicity of this layout. 

 

Nice saddle shoes! Maybe those will be the next big fashion trend? Another layout by me, Valerie.

 

Deb is such a pro at using numerous patterned papers on one page. 

 

And here's another Birthday celebration. Layout by Deb Duty.

 

Don't forget about Halloween! Isn't Katie the cutest as the Wonder Woman! Love how she did the title on this layout.

 

Less is more on this layout by Kelly Jeppson about how her mom used to make most of her clothes.

 

Christine shares a memorable story about fourth grade. Don't let not having a photo stop you from telling a story.

 

A great multiple photo layout by Jennifer.

 

Don't forget about those sometimes awkward teenage years. Love how Diane worked the strips of paper.

 

This evolution of Diane's hairstyles layout is so inspiring! I wonder if I could find enough photos to try this concept?

Advice for Layouts About Your Childhood

• Don't get hung up on the details. Don't stress if you don't know how old you are or the location of the photo. Don't let anything stop you from scrapping those photos.
• Don't get hung up on picture quality. You can always try scanning the photo and making adjustments with your photo editing software.
• Do try an evolution/comparison type layout like Diane's Mane Event layout above.
• Do try telling a memorable moment without any photos.
• Do have fun creating layouts with your old photos!

Proud Moments

 There are little moments every day when I am proud of my son and make a mental note to document it in some way or just celebrate with a high five. Our own accomplishments might not be worthy of the Nobel Prize, but they are deserving enough to be scrapbooked. When's the last time you gave yourself a pat on the back for a job well done? Yep, my challenge to you today is to document one of your own proud moments. It could be a recent moment, or a non-recent moment.

Here's mine:

 

Lisa shares a simple accomplishment—how she succesfully folded a paper crane. Origami is so much fun. This is totally off topic, but sometimes it is a lot of fun to fold origami and use it as an embellishment on your page.

 

We've got a few runners here in the collective. Erin writes about how she never thought she'd be a runner. I love the clean lines on this—and look at all that journaling. Way to go Erin!

 

And Christine ran a marathon. A whole marathon. Twenty-six point two miles. Oh my, that is a lot of running. Isn't it amazing what our bodies can do!?

A Few More Journaling Prompts for Today

• Scrap a proud moment you remember from high school.
• Scrap a proud moment you remember from college.
• Scrap a proud moment you remember as a friend, sister, daughter, or wife.
• Scrap a proud moment in parenting.

Digging Deeper

I've been taking it easy on you, but now it's time to explore ways to dig deeper on those layouts about us. I challenge you to really try and stretch yourself with your journaling. It's so easy to write a sentence and call it good. I know because I do it all. the. time. But it's something I'm trying to get better at, especially when the topic calls for it. When digging deeper, also think about how your color palette may affect and enhance the mood of your page. 

Today I have a series of journaling prompts and layout ideas to hopefully get those journaling juices flowing. 

1. What's going on in your life right now, this very moment?

Take a minute to jot down what's going on in your life right now. When you think you're done journaling, push yourself to write a little more. You might be surprised with you have in front of you...in a good way.

Here's my version of "Right Now..."

 

2. Finish this phrase: "I am..."

Jennie describes herself with some basic adjectives.

 

3. Discuss a character trait that makes you who you are.

Christa shares about being optimistic. I love that great smile and girly, sophisticated color palette.

 

4. What are some things life has taught you?

Diane shares her "two cents" in this gorgeous layout.

 

5. Room for Improvement

In what area of your life can you improve on something? Lisa shares a layout about how she used to say she had low self-confidence, but then realized she really didn't

 

6. Talk about the tough stuff

Life isn't always unicorns and rainbows, so your scrapbooking does not have to be either. Celebrate some of life's struggles or maybe even some silly little wrinkles like Christine.

A Few More Prompts

• What do you like best about yourself?
• What matters most?
• What makes you sad?
• What's your 5-year plan? or your 10-year plan?
• What are you thankful for?
• Write a letter to your younger self.

 

Playing Favorites

Favorites! We all have them: favorite activities, favorite foods, favorite music, favorite books, favorite movies, favorite places, favorite people—the list is nearly never-ending. Favorites are totally painless and so easy to scrap. They are even easy to sing about. Cue music..... Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens. Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens. Brown paper packages tied up with strings. These are a few of my favorite things.

(You can thank me later if you find yourself randomly singing that song from The Sound of Music later today.) And without further adieu, here's some inspiration from the collective for scrapping your favorites:

Make A List

I challenge you to sit down right now, get a piece of paper and a pen, and write down five to ten of your very favorite things. Take a cute self portrait and make a fun layout. I did just that exact thing yesterday. Here's my result:

And one from Diane

Another from Jennie. I love all the little bits and pieces on this one.

I'm always impressed and inspired by Jennifer's talent in fitting so many photos on a page.

One Favorite Per Page

Lisa shares a favorite place.

And Amy has one too.
 

Celeste shares her love for coffee.

Jennifer made a layout about her favorite television show.

And Christine shares a favorite activity.

 

I realized today, in challenging all you lovely blog readers to scrap more of yourself, that you're going get to know the collective over here a lot better this week.

More of Us

In keeping with the gallery theme this month, I decided a week of blogging all about us—the scrapbooker—was in order. For me, this is definitely a challenge that needs conquering. I just don't make myself a priority. I think our kids and family will look back through our scrapbooks and really cherish those layouts that include us or are entirely about us. Ninety-nine percent of the time, I am the one behind the camera in my home. I made two goals for myself when scrapping this year: (1) journal more and (2) get in more photos. It's so much more fun and maybe even easier to create layouts about our kids. But this week I challenge you to get in front of the camera and make a layout, or two, or more about yourself. The January gallery and Lisa's Click post on taking self portraits have gotten us off to a great start. I have a lot of prompts, ideas, and inspiration up my sleeve from myself and the collective. 

Let's start with something simple, that some of you may cringe at the thought of talking about: our birthdays, or more specifically—our age. Yes, our kids birthdays are so much more fun, but why not celebrate our own too?

Christa made this fun page about her last year in her thirties.

 

Christine talks about turning 40 and includes maybe the first photo ever taken of her. Layouts with then and now photos are always great.

 

Diane made of list of things to do that matches her age in years.

 

And me, I simply stated a fun little fact about myself on my birthday.

Journaling Prompts for Birthday/Age Related Layouts

1. State the who, what, when, and where of your birthday celebration.
2. Make a list of things to do. Make the list length match your age in years.
3. Make a layout with photos celebrating each decade of your life (20's, 30's, 40's, etc.)
4. Scrap a past birthday and share fun facts about the big things that happened that year.
5. What are you looking forward to/not looking forward to about being a particular age?
6. What was your favorite birthday gift ever?
7. What has been your favorite age and why?
8. Make a layout about your most memorable birthday moment.
9. What is your dessert of choice/favorite cake flavor you like to have on your birthday?
10. Do you have any birthday traditions?

Designing the Manly Way

Hopefully you enjoyed the collective's inspirational manly layouts from yesterday.  Today we're going to tackle the design of those pages we create for the men and boys in our lives.  I find it easy to splash a page with flowers, frills and butterflies for my girls and I on a page, but that isn't an easy decision when tackling the pages about my husband, friends and nephews on a page! However, never fear, there are many, many other options the collective is going to show you today to incorporate in your manly designs!

STARS

Because I'm married to the military, my first go to design element on my pages are stars.  Stars and stripes have been in my daily life for over 16 years now so it's no wonder I tend to gravitate to them!  In this layout I used not only small star elements, but also created a central/large star element in the design for added punch.

Celeste used arrows in this layout as well as simply an accent piece in her digital layout.  The stapled gold star is just the right touch to finish off this layout.

ARROWS

Arrows are a trend that have been around for a while, but seem to be making a big debut again recently. I love them as an accent, as a focal point and as they were originally intended - to point to something.

I used a Silhouette chevron/arrow cut for this layout about my husband taking over as a commander.  I wanted the arrows to be pointing down to the photos, but added a pop of color behind each strip.

Aliza used arrow strips in her layout to point to the photo as well.  I love the leading lines above and below the photo to draw your eye in to what's important-the boys in the photos.

Jennie took it a step further and incorporated not only an arrow embellishment, but arrow paper as well layered with other papers, photos and embellishments.  I also love the small layer of embellishments in the right corner that also incorporates a subtle arrow.

I love how Katie included not only arrow embellishments and papers on her layout, but also threw in a handful of hearts to go with those as well!  It's hard to get hearts on a boy page and I love how she incorporated both on this page.

SHAPES

There are all kinds of shapes, big and small, that can be used on boy and male layouts.  Whether it's a large central element like we've already discussed or repeating patterns, it's a fun way to add color, dimension and punch to a layout.

Amy uses large stitched circles, paired with smaller circles (the sequins) to embellish her layout.  It pairs so well with the layered papers and the photos in her layout.

Christine paired lots of different sizes and colors of circles on her layout.  I love the way the photos are in the center and the circles draw your eye to them.

Celeste went a different route with shapes and incorporated lots and lots of hexagons in her layout.  I love the repeating pattern and different colors she used throughout her layout.  She used the hexagons for not only an embellishment, but to house her title and journaling as well!

Finally, we're bringing it back full circle (slight pun intended!) from the stars we began with and looking at how Valerie incorporated stripes in her layout.  Like the other layouts using repeating shapes, she is repeating her stripes up and down her layout.  What draws you in is the way she uses various colors and patterns behind her already established pattern.  It complements so well.

This new line from My Mind's Eye CHA 2013 would be extremely helpful in getting those designs started for your next layout. 

What are some of your go to design tips and tricks for the layouts about men and boys in your life?

WCS is Getting Masculine Week

That's right, the mama of 2 girls and grew up in a house of girls is taking on masculinity in layouts! Everyone needs a good challenge, right? For some it might be 2 page layouts, for others it might be multi photo layouts, and for me it's bringing some masculinity to pages about the men and boys in my life!

So this week we will be looking at design, color (both masculine and feminine), and how to get those stubborn men and boys into those photos for pages.  The collective have some great examples of all of these topics to include in your pages and cards even.

I've also been scouring the sneaks and photos this week from CHA in Anaheim to look at some fabulous news papers and product lines available for your masculine layouts.

Without further adieu, today I bring you some in general, inspirational layouts about the men and boys we all know and love!

I made it a priority to get the man of our house in more layouts and started with this one:

It's ok to dig out some older photos too and scrap about that time period, or how your life has grown, etc.

I love everything about Jennie's layout about her son and his favorite jam! The stars, the stripes, the tags-awesome layout!

Celeste knows a thing or two about scrapping the men in her life since she is surrounded by them!  As the lone female in her house she has years of male scrapbooking under her belt.  And just FYI you will be seeing A LOT of Celeste this week!

I love this mix of fonts and colors in Amy's layout:

Valerie combined a great large title, paired with a smaller title along the side for her boy layout:

As a child of the 70's, I simply adore the viewmaster embellishment on Aliza's layout!

I think this starts us off in the right direction this week, don't you?!  I'll be back tomorrow with even more manly inspiration for you!

Before heading off today though, here is a look at one of my favorite new lines from Simple Stories - Urban Traveler

Welcome, January!

Happy New Year!!

We hope that you all had a safe and a happy celebration as we watched the ball drop and the year change from 12 to 13. (Y2K seems like a distant memory as we move into the thirteenth year since we waited and paused wondering if our computers woul still turn on. While some of you won't remember the panic, for those that do, have you scrapbooked it? Hmm. Note to self: make a Y2K page.)

As we begin a new year, we want to tell you that we have some fun things in store for this next few months. Watch for some fun changes and additions! That's all we are saying for now... the excitement, the anticipation... (Note to self: write. click. scrapbook. is awesome!)

Did you all get signed up for Jessica Sprague's new Project Life class? If you haven't yet, click on over and check it out. It is a sure way to help you get off to a good start with your PL goals. (Note to self: take a moment and write out my 2013 goals.)

Are you excited for a new gallery? Goodness, it is a lovely one. Come see! (Note to self: get a sketchpad for jotting down ideas as inspiration strikes whilst looking through the gallery!)

 

This month, our theme is Note to Self. (Heehee! Did you see all the clues up above?) We were inspired by the Note To Self stamps we have been seeing and thought it would make a perfect theme for starting out our new year. We hope you enjoy our gallery filled with resolutions, understandings, and random thoughts. We hope you love it as much as we do!

As a reminder, if you would like to see the layouts in full size with the journaling provided, click over the photo album using the link in the column to the left! 

 

-ING Words | Francine Clouden

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Pink Paislee) + chipboard letters (American Crafts) + letter stickers (October Afternoon) + phrase stickers (Glitz Design) + journaling spots (Glitz Design) + die cuts (Anna Griffin) + vintage button + fabric yo-yo

A Note from Francine
This page was based on a blog post about all the action words at that particular time in my life. It's a great reminder to me all all that I do and enjoy.

 

Hey, You! | Aliza Deutsch

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, American Crafts, My Mind’s Eye, October Afternoon, Crate Paper) + embellishments (Elle’s Studio, Evalicious, Studio Calico, October Afternoon, Pebbles, Cocoa Daisy) + stickers (Lily Bee Design, American Crafts, Jillibean Soup)

A Note from Aliza
This layout is a bit more frenetic than I am used to making. I even used three exclamation points! My, goodness, that’s a lot. But it’s a fun and playful layout, so it feels right here. This really is an ongoing goal for me, though; getting over (or just owning up to) “looking bad” in pictures, but also being assertive enough to hand over the camera and to give instructions.

January Fun Fact
I do hope it snows around here sometime this winter. I detest feeling cold, but I love winter weather. I just wear lots and lots of clothes. (Really, absurd amounts of layers.)

 

Everyday Adventures | Francine Clouden

z

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Studio Calico, Crate Paper) + stickers (Authentique, Glitz Design) + chipboard stickers (Crate Paper) + acrylic stamp (Jenni Bowlin) + stamping ink (Ranger) + acrylic paint + ribbon

A Note from Francine
To make the painted background I used an expired gift card as a sort of palette knife to scrape acrylic paint on the page.

January Fun Fact
This year I do solemnly promise that I will get all my layouts into albums. Really!

 

read | Celeste Smith

12 x12 | materials stitching (Stitches and Pieces by The Doodle Queen ) + tape (Fabric Tape by Valorie Wibbens) + template (Transformers 14 by Lauren Reid at One Story Down) + kit (Mila's Spare Time by Peeps & Milo at One Story Down)

A Note from Celeste
This layout ,while not written like a note to myself, is a good reminder that once in awhile I need to just slow down and curl up with a good book!

January Fun Fact
Season 3 of Downton Abbey starts in a few days and I am beside myself with anticipation!

 

We Love Daddy | Marnie Flores

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper, elements (Echo Park) + frame (Crystal Wilkerson) + fonts (Century Gothic, Janda Silly Monkey, JB Cursive)

A Note from Marnie
I hit the jackpot on husbands. Truly. Oh, we have our troubles, please don't think me plastic, but I feel incredibly blessed to know what a wonderful father he is. This page is about my good fortune, as you never truly know how a young man will be as a father until he becomes one.

January Fun Fact
We have already had more snow that all of last year. This month, I am hoping to find a good sledding hill for my littles to learn the thrill of the whoosh!

 

quirk #47 | Celeste Smith

12 x 12 | materials Amy Jaz Jingle All the Way paper and elements at The Lilypad, Gina Miller Elf paper at The Lilypad, Amy Wolff Winter Washed paper at The Lilypad, Sahlin Studio Jolly Ole paper & elements, Sahlin Studio Trimming the Tree elements at The Lilypad, Little Butterfly Wings New Start elements at The Lilypad, Emily Merritt Big Number Week Cards at The Lilypad, Laurie Ann Reflecting Elements at The Lilypad

A Note from Celeste
This layout sprang out of one of the photos from my November 12 on the 12th photo collection. My lists are really my little notes to myself. I keep them everywhere and have no idea how I would function without them!

January Fun Fact
This year I'm resolving not to resolve!

 

Note to Self | Lisa Ottosson

A5 | materials patterned paper (Art Deco alpha with graph (here) +chevron printable/digital papers (here) + Peppermint Twist (here) + stickers (Pink Paislee) + accent (Printable Mason Jar here)

A Note from Lisa
This layout is going in my 2013 Project Life album as one of the start pages. I want to have it in there to remind me that I shouldn´t take anything for granted. After a year of losses (both my grandfather and grandmother) and other personal events, I need a reminder that life is fragile.

January Fun Fact
The A5 size is about half of a 8.5x11” paper and is my new size for the new year!

 

Joy Everyday | Katie Ehmann

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts, KI Memories, Authentique) + embellishments (Simple Stories, Studio Calico, Darice, Inc) + stickers (Pebbles) + stamps (Studio Calico, American Crafts) + ink (Hero Arts) + die cutting machine (Silhouette Cameo)

A Note from Katie
This layout is all about me on 12/12/12. I took this photo at exactly 12:12pm and knew that I wanted to use it in my note to me layout. I love the touch of sparkle American Crafts POW papers and the sequins add, and it complemented my theme of joy.

January Fun Fact
I love snow for Christmas. But after Christmas, I’d be perfectly happy if it was 70 and sunny everyday. Too bad for me, though, because I live in the great white tundra that is Michigan, where winter lasts half the year!

 

Note to Self | Jennifer Larson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Echo Park, Basic Grey, Studio Calico, October Afternoon) + cardstock (Stampin’ Up!, Bazzill) + embellishments (Studio Calico, Basic Grey, Pink Paislee, Queen & Company) + stickers (Basic Grey, Jenni Bowlin, October Afternoon) + punches (EK Successs) + sandpaper (Basic Grey) + floss (DMC) + templates (Bazzill, Stampin’ Up!)

A Note from Jennifer
My mother recently gave me a box filled with photos of myself as a child. I scanned them, so now when I want to do a layout about my childhood, I edit and print one of those photos to use. Here I reflect more on my life since my childhood, reflecting on some of my insecurities when I was a child as well as some of the things I wish I’d done differently or known when I was younger.

January Fun Fact
I love the month of January, even though it’s super cold here in Minnesota. It’s my birthday month!

 

Sushi | Kathy Martin

12 x 12 | < b>materials patterned paper (October Afternoon) + alphabet stickers (American Crafts) + accents (Maya Road)

A Note from Kathy
Note to self, if you don’t like something the first time you try it, don’t wait 25 years to try it again!

January Fun Fact
Surprisingly, even the hubs, who doesn’t like cooked fish and seafood, likes sushi! Go figure?!?!

 

Remember | Deb Duty

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (My Mind's Eye, Studio Calico, Basic Grey) + embellishments (Studio Calico, American Crafts) + stickers (Pebbles) + alpha (Basic Grey, Studio Calico, Cosmo Cricket) + stamps (Studio Calico)

A Note from Deb
This layout is about a very recent photo of my boys. When I was thinking about the theme for this month, I thought about this photo that I captured with phone. When I took the photo I was thinking about how I wanted to remember how much fun they were having together playing basketball and joking around.

January Fun Fact
I'm very excited to be attending my first CHA show this month!

 

Thoughts From Today | Valerie O'Neall

8.5 x 11 | materials cardstock (Wausau) + patterned paper (Crate Paper, My Mind's Eye, October Afternoon) + stamp (American Crafts) + flair (Ormolu) + wood veneer (Studio Calico) + enamel dots (My Mind's Eye) + chalk ink (Prima) + pen (Copic Multiliner) + Silhouette SD (fonts: Matchbook & Novocento Wide)

A Note from Valerie
I planned this layout in Silhouette Studio, loaded an 8.5 x 11 sheet into my Silhouette SD to cut out the title and phrase and built the layout around those two elements. I threw around the idea of adding photos, but decided to leave them out this time and make the layout completely about the journaling.

January Fun Fact
I'm so proud of my mom. She lost almost 70 pounds last year! Way to go, mom!

 

You Will Be | Jennie McGarvey

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Glitz Designs, KI Memories, American Crafts) + cardstock (Bazzill and American Crafts) + glitter paper (American Crafts) + embellishments (American Crafts, Studio Calico and Cosmo Cricket) + Washi Tape (Glitz Design)

A Note from Jennie
This layout features a photo of me when I was 2 years old with my Grandpa. This photo sits on my dresser and I look at it daily, and have, for basically all of my life. I have done a bit of deeper journaling (not too much!) and have hidden it in the glassine bag.

January Fun Fact
I do not drink warm beverages. Very, very occasionally a hot latte or hot chocolate, but that is rare!

 

Note to Self | Amy Coose

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Echo Park, Basic Grey, Studio Calico) + embellishments (Studio Calico, Silhouette Cameo, Prima) + tags (Chic Tags) + stickers (Washi from Freckled Fawn) + twine (The Twinery)

A Note from Amy
This layout was built around our Christmas card picture from this year. Seeing us all together reminded me how important it is to enjoy each and every moment we have together.

January Fun Fact
We always set New Year resolutions as a family, and promptly forget about them by the next week. I am hoping that posting it here on the wcs blog will help hold me accountable this year. :)

 

I am Brave | Diane Payne

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts, Glitz, My Mind's Eye) + embellishments (American Crafts, A Flair for Buttons, My Mind's Eye) + stickers (Glitz, American Crafts) + stamps (American Crafts)

A Note from Diane
I love quotes so I thought it would be fun to feature a favorite one for the theme this month. It is a quote that I try to remember when I'm faced with doing something that I resist, simply because I'm afraid of the unknown. The title was inspired by the quote.

January Fun Fact
January always puts me in the mood to purge! Purging and organizing the things that make the cut always makes me feel so good.

 

Know This | Emily Spahn

8.5 x 11 | materials Gossamer Blue January kit: cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned paper (My Mind’s Eye, October Afternoon) + brads (My Mind’s Eye) + stickers (My Mind’s Eye) + chipboard (My Mind’s Eye, Studio Calico) + die cut (October Afternoon) + washi tape (My Mind’s Eye) + doily (Gossamer Blue)

A Note from Emily
It’s crazy to me that as of last month, it’s been 10 years since I graduated from college. Time has truly flown! I wanted to make a layout that included some things I’ve learned in the past ten years, as well as a bit of advice to my younger self!

January Fun Fact
We are the family that is busy, busy, busy every weekend from about June until December. We are constantly on the move. I LOVE January, because for the first time in ages, I can just relax on the weekends!

 

Remember This | Christine Newman

12 x 12 | materials "Happy Gram" digital kit (One Little Bird) + "Note To Self" digital kit (Echo Park) + fonts (Bebas, Lobster 2.0, Covered By Your Grace) + phone app (Incredibooth)

A Note from Christine
I love mixing things up with scrapbooking. I like doing all paper layouts, hybrid layouts, or all digital layouts. Since my last two gallery layouts were paper layouts, I decided to go with a digital one this time!

January Fun Fact
In January of 2011, I started a project called "New 52". I did at least one new thing each week and documented it on my blog. At the end of the year I had 52 blog posts of photos and stories of new adventures. It was fantastic!

 

Note to Self | Paula Gilarde

12 x 12 | materials LayerWorks No. 154 (Studio DD) +Alison kit (Maplebrook Studios) + Curled Journal Spots No. 6 (Katie Pertiet) + Readymade Journalers Note to Self (Studio DD) + Simple Collage Frames No. 1 (Katie Pertiet)

A Note from Paula
An emergency necessitating a call to the fire department resulted in me reverting back to my childhood - I called the number for emergency services in Ireland (999) instead of 911! I quickly discovered my mistake and dialed the correct number. The fire was out before the fire department got there.

January Fun Fact
I'm hoping to learn how to cross-country ski this year.

 

Eighteen Year Old Me | Christa Paustenbaugh

12 x 12 | materials cardstock (American Crafts) + patterned papers (Studio Calico, Simple Stories, Scenic Route) + die cuts (Elle’s Studio, Ormolu, Simple Stories, Evalicious for Cocoa Daisy) + stickers (Pebbles, Simple Stories) + button (American Crafts) + twine (Ormolu) + flair (Ormolu) + wood veneer (Studio Calico) + mist (Studio Calico)

A Note from Christa
As soon as I saw this month’s theme I knew exactly what I would do. Amazing how much you think you know at 18 when actually you know nothing! When I look at that photo from nearly 22 years ago I almost don’t remember her. Things definitely change and in my circumstance the change is good and a learning process too.

January Fun Fact
It’s a big month in our household – a Grandma is making the big journey across the Pacific to come visit us in Japan and while she’s here we get to celebrate my youngest daughter’s birthday. She rarely has anyone visit for her birthday since weather is so unpredictable so she is beside herself that grandma will be here!

 

Note to Self | Erin Sweeney

 8.5 x 11 materials patterned paper (Amy Tangerine/American Crafts, My Mind’s Eye) + embellishments (Ormolu) + stickers (American Crafts) + punch (EK Success) 

A Note from Erin
For me, it’s easy to get caught up in the busy-ness of day-to-day life: cleaning the house, running errands, making dinner, laundry, homework, activities and more before you know it bedtime is here and another day is gone. While those things are necessary, they’re not the important things, they can wait. The important thing is spending time with my family –p laying with my kids, being with my husband, all of us being together. And I know this. Yet it’s easy to forget it while doing all the aforementioned things. So my note to self is to remember what’s important, to put my family first, and to enjoy being with them.

 

Memories Shimmer | Amy Sorenson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper (Basic Grey, Echo Park, My Mind's Eye) + alphabet stickers (Studio Calico) + alphabet stamps (Studio Calico) + stamping ink (ColorBox) + fonts (KG Ways to Say Goodbye, LD Remington Portable)

A Note from Amy
The idea for this layout's journaling came from a conversation I had with my mom last month, when I was feeling anxious about my Christmas-making efforts. By reminding me that it would all turn out OK, she helped me put things back into perspective and calmed my nerves. I hope I can do the same sort of things for my kids as they turn into adults---but now it's written down just in case!

January Fun Fact
Last January was fairly pathetic, snow-wise, around here. I am SO hoping for lots of snow this year!

 

Note | Kelly Jeppson

12 x 12 | materials patterned paper, felt snowflake (Stampin' Up) + crepe paper + book page + felt embellishment (K&Company) + letter stickers (American Crafts)

A Note From Kelly
Sometimes I have to be more like my daughter, Josie, who always has something to celebrate. This is my little reminder that "There's always something to celebrate."

January Fun Fact
I got a new computer for Christmas! And a root canal. One of them is more fun than the other.

 

Note to Self | Marnie Flores

12 x 12 | materials paper, notecards (Crystal Wilkerson) + fonts (TwoPeas Magic Marker, Jenna Sue, KG Ray of Sunshine)

A Note from Marnie
I'm so aghast that I have been missing from my photo albums. I used to teach CKCs and my biggest mantra was be in more photos. Be in more photos. And yet... Sheesh. The good news is that my 8 year old got a camera for Christmas so now there are two of us taking pictures!

January Fun Fact
Today we begin a new 52 books in 52 weeks! I began the effort two years ago, and haven't made it all the way there yet, so maybe this will be the year!

 

just remember | Lisa Ottosson

8.5 x 11 | materials patterned paper (American Crafts) + font (Blackout) + stickers (Panduro Hobby)

A Note from Lisa
This layout came to be the very last one I did 2012. My life forever changed just before Christmas and I felt like I needed to do another “Note to self” page. This time with a message that all will be ok, eventually.

I added a small journaling tag to the page with some hidden journaling behind the photo. I went looking for something to bling out the tag with and happened upon a pair of vintage earrings I thrifted a while ago. I simply attached it like I would a brad and cut of the stem on the back, preventing it from poking holes in my album.

January Fun Fact
I am so ready to start a new year!!!

 

Thank you for stopping by! Happy New Year!!