Ali Edwards » Blog

Today, Yesterday, The Day Before | Guest Post By Liz Lamoreux

Ali — Thu, 23 May 2013 10:00:48 +0000

Today: I always want to remember the joy on your face when you realized we had dandelions in the backyard ready for wishing.

Yesterday: I heard so much love and patience in Grandma’s voice as she taught you how to blow dandelion wishes when we went on our adventure to the park.

The day before: I listened to you run down the hall to the guest room saying, “It’s time to get up Grandma Fina! It’s morning time!”

I am a bit obsessed with prompts. I like how they give us a place to begin when we face the blank page or canvas. Somehow it takes the mystery out of creating for me in a way that supports me to get right to it instead of getting caught up in thinking “I don’t know what I’m doing.” Sometimes a prompt takes me to unexpected places and pushes me to see things from angles I hadn’t noticed before.

I often turn to prompts when I want to tell a piece of a story in a blog post or in my Project Life layouts or when I’m writing a poem. Sometimes I want to share details of a day or an experience without telling the whole story. Maybe I’m keeping pieces of the story close to me or maybe I want to drill down and look closely at one moment.

One prompt I really love is:

Today

Yesterday

The day before

Sometimes I will tell the story with one photo like I did above. Sometimes I have photos to pair with each written snapshots. For example:

Today: It’s a vintage quilts spread out in the backyard while eating a picnic and listening to her tell stories kind of Sunday afternoon.

Yesterday: Walking along Puget Sound looking for sea glass, I am in awe of the beauty of this place I now call home.

The day before: Something about the way the birds are singing and the way Spring feels almost overwhelmingly beautiful has me deeply missing my grandparents today.

Sometimes I just have the words, so I really try to paint a picture by bringing in the senses like this example from a year ago:

Now: Neighborhood children giggle and yell and run under the peeking through grey sunshine as I sit cross-legged in the middle of my bed wrapping wire around beads and stringing them together to soon be sent across the sea to become a talisman of words another wants to hold close to her heart.

Yesterday: A cafe full of chattering, eating, meeting people, I weave between the tables trying to find a place to call my own where I can sip this mug of chai and write and remind myself that I do know what step to take next even though the uncertainty sometimes slips around me like a cloak I don’t remember buying in a dusty flea market another lifetime ago.

The day before: When Ellie Jane refused to get in the car, we walk along the sidewalk passing storefronts and cars with “you have to hold my hand” said aloud on repeat, and then we turn and do it again because a one year old has no need to understand the stacked up inside my head to-do list that includes “picking up the taxes” on the line right after the doctor’s appointment we just completed.

This is also a great way to tell the stories when you don’t have photos of moments you want to remember. It becomes a written illustration of the photos you didn’t take. This is really useful to me when I’m sifting through my feelings around something. Writing short snapshots like these grounds me in the present and helps me focus on the beauty even in challenging moments. “The day before” example above describes a moment when I didn’t have my camera, but I really wanted to remember the way I just leaned into the experience with my daughter and let go of “all that must get done.” Honestly, I could probably write one of these a day, which could become a beautiful practice of an entire journal filled of written snapshots of “the photo I didn’t take today…”

Other prompts I’ve been using lately:

This is me
Today, I…
I want to remember
Observations on [insert date, time]
In this moment…

What prompts do you like to use when sharing the snapshots of a story? Share your favorites in the comments today.

About Liz Lamoreux: I’m a retreat host, jewelry artist, and the author of Inner Excavation: Explore Your Self Through Photography, Poetry, and Mixed Media. In this moment, you might find me dancing in my studio to Mumford and Sons, making muffins with my almost three-year-old daughter, writing a poem, or deeply enjoying the quiet found in a cup of tea. Connect with me at www.lizlamoreux.com.

In June, Liz is teaching Water Your Toddler Mama Soul, a 10-day ecourse just for moms of toddlers that focuses on ways to tell our stories during these years where we have little time to ourselves. There will be daily photography prompts and self-care ideas that will help you reconnect with yourself in the midst of all that a day with a toddler (or two or three) brings, plus we’ll be gathering in a private Facebook community that will continue after the course. Learn more and register here.

AE Behind The Brand | Get It Scrapped

Ali — Tue, 21 May 2013 10:00:36 +0000

Today as part of the Behind The Brand series I would like to introduce you to Debbie from Get It Scrapped.

How did you get started with your business? How long have you been in business?

At the time I discovered scrapbooking and scrapbooking magazines I was writing and submitting short fiction. Submitting the scrapbook pages I was making to magazines seemed a natural step. When I was asked to join the first (and unfortunately only) creative team for Scrapbook Answers magazine I also had the opportunity to pitch and write articles. Over the years, I wrote for Memory Makers magazine, and I authored the book Get It Scrapped for F + W Publications. I wanted to write so much more than the magazines wanted to publish, and so I started online teaching at Get It Scrapped as a way to “self-publish.” The Get It Scrapped classroom opened 5 years ago, in April 2008.

What is your favorite thing about being an entrepreneur?

I love that with an internet business, I can come up with an idea and make it happen–quite quickly. The time from conception to first sale at my membership site, Masterful Scrapbook Design, was about 2 weeks. We’ve now published 30 issues over 32 months, and with each new year we modify the ways in which we deliver our online magazine as technology changes.

Where are you located? What’s your favorite thing about the city you live in?

I live in Seacoast New Hampshire, in a university town 30 minutes from the ocean. I’ve been here since I got my MBA in 1992 and have experienced the town as a student, a parent, the wife of a town politician and professor, and yet this town continues to mystify — or maybe elude–me. What I do love about this place are the few dear friends I have, the flow of students through our lives, and the river behind our house.

What inspires you?

Scrapbookers and experimenting with composition inspires me. Masterful Scrapbook Design is built around exploring the work of experienced designers, and I love that, every month, I get to talk to them about how they’re scrapbooking right now.

What goodies are on your wish list?

I keep meaning to explore Photojojo.com and try out some new gadget for my iphone camera–I’m not sure exactly what . . . but something that helps me get new, and hopefully fun, results.

Tell us something new that is happening with your business:

I’ve recently launched a new series of low-cost, high-action classes. In Scrapbook Coach you work one page shape multiple times, with variations in product and patterned paper choices, number of photos, and title and embellishment treatments. Check out a free lesson at GetItScrapped.com/ScrapbookCoach.

Debbie Hodge loves playing board games with her sons, doing puzzles, digital scrapbooking and working on classes and her websites. Her husband and sons are great sounding boards for business ideas and challenges. While her favorite place to visit is her childhood home in upstate NY, her youngest son is yearning for travel and pushing Debbie quickly out of her comfort zone.

Behind the Brand is a new series of posts highlighting the people and companies who generously sponsor this site. For more information on sponsor opportunities check out my sponsorship page or email Katie.

Around The Yard | May 2013

Ali — Mon, 20 May 2013 10:00:24 +0000

Just one week ago there were completely different things in bloom in my yard.

Blink and you miss.

Every year right around this time I have grand plans for my yard or my raised beds. If you would have asked me two weeks ago I would have recited the list of things I want to plant (veggies, corn, and more cutting flowers). But as the reality of the next couple months becomes apparent (work commitments + travel) I think that I’ll skip adding new stuff this year and just enjoy and take care of what I have in the time I have available.

I love being in my yard. I enjoy pruning and even weeding and watering (yes Mom you read that right) – it’s relaxing and it might be as close to a hobby as I can get right now for someone who works in an industry that is other people’s hobby.

Same tree from the photo above, different view:

And up close it looks like this:

And it smells divine and I can hear the busy bees humming along every time I step outside the door.

Bleeding hearts and hostas and a couple other little shade plants tucked inside.

Just last week this crazy amazing wisteria was in full bloom with hundreds of purple flowers cascading down.

In front of that little fence are three blueberry bushes. I thought the middle one was dead but it seems to be greening up now. The other two already have berries in formation.

Last year I planted a couple new white hydrangea’s and they are looking good.

These peonies are what I check on just about every day. They are getting close to bursting wide open.

Something new I did plant this spring were some additional dahlias. I have a raised bed area that holds an amazing collection of burgundy dahlias. These should be light pinks. I’m currently fighting a battle and killing off the snails. So many snails around here.

So many good lessons out in the yard. Patience. Acceptance. Taking it slow. Savoring. Not filling in everything too tight all at once.

Hope you have a wonderful week.

And the giveaways go to

Ali — Mon, 20 May 2013 03:13:11 +0000

One (1) person will win a $100.00 gift card to Freckled Fawn.

#300 • Amy Jackson said…Wow…amazing giveaways! Thanks for the chance to win…

One person will win a spot in Tool School Mini Workshop with Jennifer Gallacher at Two Peas in a Bucket.

#136 • Samantha L said…Thank you for the chance to win!

Congrats Amy and Samantha! Please email us with your contact information.

Right Now | The Words

Ali — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:00:25 +0000

The things I find myself saying again and again to one or the other or both of them right now:

Take your hair out of your mouth.

Have a good day at school.

Just a minute.

I’ll be right there.

Turn off the TV.

Wait, please.

Please take your dishes to the sink.

Go get your book.

Stop. Just stop.

Please be kind.

Follow directions.

Please put your shoes in the basket and hang up your coat.

Awesome job on your homework.

Inside voices please.

I’m super proud of you.

Use kind words.

I love you.

You are awesome.

Goodnight. I love you.

AE Behind The Brand | Lisa Leonard Designs

Ali — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:00:47 +0000

Today as part of the Behind The Brand series I would like to introduce you to Lisa from Lisa Leonard Designs.

How did you get started with your business? How long have you been in business?

Lisa Leonard Designs started as a hobby business. I did home parties around town and sold to local boutiques. When I started blogging, the business began to grow—and once we launched our website things really took off!

What is your favorite thing about being an entrepreneur?

Definitely the flexible schedule it gives me so that I can be with my kiddos. Don’t get me wrong—I work a lot, but I can choose when I work, and that is such a blessing!

Where are you located? What’s your favorite thing about the city you live in?

We’re in San Luis Obispo, CA. We are close to the beach which is amazing. There are hiking trails right behind our house. And the downtown area is full of adorable boutiques and thrift shops. Pretty much the perfect place to live!

What inspires you?

I get inspired by other creative people, the sunshine, a good book and time alone. I love to let ideas swirl around in my head and then see them come to fruition with a new design.

What goodies are on your wish list?

Right now I’m scouring thrift stores for old Persian rugs and funky oil paintings. I’m addicted to thrifting!

Tell us something new you have happening with your business:

We just introduced our adorable new alphabet cake toppers. The possibilities are endless! And of course our new gold jewelry collection has been a huge hit with our community.

Lisa Leonard weaves creativity throughout her life. From handmade jewelry to wedding cake toppers her fun and whimsical products will bring a smile to your face. She is wife to Steve and mommy to David, age 10 and Matthias, age 9. They live on the central coast of California.

CONNECT WITH LISA | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | PINTEREST | BLOG

And The Giveaways Go To…

Ali — Mon, 13 May 2013 03:34:24 +0000

Five people will receive the May monthly kit from Elle’s Studio.

#442 • rhonda nickol said…I am hoping this is my time to win because I love both giveaways! Fingers crossed,thanks for the chance to win!
#305 • Melinda Wilson said…Ali, thanks for the opportunity to win!!
#77 • ScrappyBarb said…Crafty goodness! Thanks for the chance to win!
#525 • Carey said…Thanks for the chance to win!
#324 • Angi@MakingMayhem said…More small card goodness! I love using those fun bits on my cards and layouts, and of course my PL. Thanks for the fun giveaway!

One person will win a $35 e-gift card to Evalicious.

#80 • Stacyk said…I frequent both places periodically for my PL needs. Thanks for the chance!

One person will receive a Silhouette Portrait™. US residents only please.

#185 • Pattie said…What a great giveaway…a silhouette has been on my wish list for quite a while!

Congratulations! If you see your name above please email us with your contact information.

Sponsor Giveaways | Elle’s Studio, Evalicious

Ali — Sat, 11 May 2013 10:00:06 +0000

GIVEAWAY | Five people will receive the May monthly kit from Elle’s Studio.

Elle’s Studio is excited to announce that they now have a monthly kit full of exclusive and limited edition tags! The best part about this kit is that it will work for you, no matter what you enjoy making. Each kit will include tags that you can use for layouts, mini books, cards, and of course, Project Life! You’ll get a mix of tags that you will not find anywhere else, or in any of their collections. Most tags will be tags you can use for everyday themes, and there will even be some seasonal and monthly tags in the mix, too! Each month look for a mix of sizes and shapes, and anywhere from around 20 to 25 tags – the perfect amount to keep you busy all month long!

Each month, the limited edition kits will go on sale on the 10th at 8:00 am PST, at their website, and, their very first kit is available now! These kits will be able to ship first class: shipping for USA residents will start around $2.00 and go up from there, depending on the weight of what is in your cart. For overseas, it will run about $6+ depending on your location.

Once these kits sell out, they will not be restocking, so make sure you mark your calendar or join their newsletter list to receive a reminder of when they go live each month. And, don’t forget that their brand new collections, Cameron and Saltwater, start shipping to retailers this Monday – so check out your favorite online store or local scrapbook store for those new items!

You can also visit Elle’s Studio blog, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

GIVEAWAY | One person will win a $35 e-gift card to Evalicious.

Evalicious offers paper tags, badge buttons & cling-mount red rubber stamps that are perfect for documenting your daily life. Our new Escape collection is a must have for those of you who are thinking of going away on a trip or have gone away and want to document your travels. We also added 15 new sets of rubberstamps to our shop. There is sure to be one that will complement your project.

Don’t forget to stop by our blog for product inspiration and tutorials from our awesome design team girls.

SPECIAL OFFER | This month our little indie shop turned 5! To celebrate we are offering 25% off our rubberstamps. Simply enter code: happybirthday (valid until May 13).

CONNECT WITH EVALICIOUS | Facebook | Twitter | Blog

TO BE ENTERED into this giveaway please leave a comment below (if you are reading this post on Facebook please come to my blog to leave a comment). Comments will be closed at 8pm Pacific on Sunday. The winners will be announced shortly after. Please be sure to check back or subscribe (click here to get posts delivered to your email box) to see if you are receiving one of the items.