:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Sketches for Scrapbooking: One-Page Sketches Volume 1

CONGRATS, MARTY!!

You'll have some great sketch inspiration on its way to you soon. Watch your inbox for further details on how to claim your prize.

If you'd like your own copy of Sketches for Scrapbooking: One-Page Sketches (vol. 1), it is available at Scrapbook.com for only $17.99!

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:FIVE FAVES: by Motif...Leaves...

If there's one thing that marks the start of fall, it's the falling of leaves.

The leaves are certainly starting to turn and fall in my neck of the woods, so I thought I'd share a few of my favorite scrapbooking paper designs featuring this fall motif.

American Crafts - Nightfall Collection - Fall Leaves
A simple leaf pattern...LOVE the burlap background on this design.

Bella Blvd - Finally Fall Collection - Leaf Pile
Lovely tone-on-tone design...

Fancy Pants Designs - Summer's End Collection - Falling Leaves
This is a beautiful color combination...dark grey, peachy orange, pale blue and mossy green.

Imaginisce - Happy Harvest Collection - Dancing Leaves
This is such a lovely, whimsical design...like these colorful little leaves are being carried on the breeze!

We R Memory Keepers - Autumn Splendor Collection - Autumn Leaf
This is such an interesting pattern...so straight and organized and balanced. Something the leave in my yard most definitely are NOT! :-)

LET'S TALK:
How about you?? Any leafy products that have recently found a new home in your scrapbooking stash (or added to you wish list)? Links are welcome and encouraged!

:WORD ART: Life is Not Measured Quote Freebie

Maya's 'life is not measured' quote won the quote vote by a LANDSLIDE!!

So, here is your word art freebie as promised...hope you enjoy!

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD

Be sure to check out my other word art downloads to make sure you haven't missed any.

If you'd like to make sure that your voice is heard in the quote vote for my next word art freebie, subscribe by email or your favorite reader using the options at the top of the inner right sidebar.

:LAYOUT: Poppy's

It'll be time to visit the pumpkin patch again soon...can't wait!!

Here's a layout from our pumpkin patch adventure last year...

(click for a larger view)

Journaling:
A couple years ago, I had heard about Poppy’s Pumpkin Patch outside Norfolk, NE from a friend of mine who had taken her children there and said it was great fun. So, I thought we’d give it a go this year and even got Justin to come along.

One of the things that Kaitlin was really excited about was the zip line. She couldn’t wait to ride it!

However, we arrived to find out that you had to be 50” to go on it and by their measurement, she came up about a 1/2 inch short. She was quite disappointed.

Unfortunately, that kind of set the tone for the rest of the day, but we tried our best to have fun.

There were some play areas such as a large plastic slide, a tricycle race track and more, but to be honest, most of them were kind of a disappointment. Out of five or six tricycles, only one actually worked! Also, there was a mini-version of the zip line for the kids, but it was just a bit too ‘mini’ for Kaitlin’s taste.

Of course, Kaitlin loved checking out the animals...except for when a goat butted its horn into her arm. They had llamas, horses, pigs, geese, goats and bunnies as well and Kaitlin always has a soft spot for animals.
Just the same, next year I think we’ll stick with picking our pumpkins at Garrity’s. Sometimes local is best.

Supplies:
Cardstock: Bazzill
Patterned Paper: My Mind’s Eye, Basic Grey
Chipboard Alpha: My Mind’s Eye
Wood Sign: Karen Foster
Flowers: Prima
Ink: Colorbox
Corner Rounder: Marvey
Scallop Trimmer: Fiskars
Font: Garamond

:REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Sketches for Scrapbooking: One-Page Sketches Volume 1

Sketches are near and dear to many scrappers hearts.

Whether they are simply short on time (aren't we all) or simply going through a bought of scrapper's block, sketches are an invaluable resource.

While I've been a long time of Page Maps from Becky Fleck (volume 1 and volume 2), I've recently discovered another great source for sketch idea books.

They are called Sketches for Scrapbooking from Allison Davis. The volume I am discussing today is her recent first edition for single page designs - Sketches for Scrapbooking Sketches: One-Page Sketches Volume 1.

Here's a list of contents and features:

1. 30 versatile one-page sketches including designs for layouts with anywhere from 1 to 6 photos
2. spiral binding for a functional, lay-flat design
3. a detailed key with each design which:
1. includes an area that differentiates where cardstock and patterns were used (also differentiates between types of pattern such as small pattern, large pattern, stripe, etc.),
2. gives precise size measurements of all major elements,
3. gives measurements for placement of major elements, AND 
4. offers a list of 5+ ideas for possible variations of the design that can be used to stretch the design even further!

While Sketches for Scrapbooking Sketches: One-Page Sketches Volume 1 is certainly a no-frills sketch book (no color or sample layouts included), there are some definite benefits to this...the focus is on the design and allows the user to really bring the design to life with their own photos and product choices.

While this might be Allison's first edition of sketches for one-page layouts, she's got a well-established line of sketch books for 2-page designs and also a couple for cardmaking. Check them all out here.

GIVEAWAY:

Lucky for all of you out there that love using sketches, I have one free copy of Sketches for Scrapbooking Sketches: One-Page Sketches Volume 1 to give away!

Simply answer the following question in a comment to this post by 5 p.m. CST on Thursday, September 29th, 2011 and you'll be entered for your chance to win:

Were you aware of Allison Davis's Sketches for Scrapbooking series before reading this post? If yes, have you previously purchased one of her volumes of sketches?

Random.org will choose and I'll post the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Creative Spaces from Creating Keepsakes

It looks like the early bird does NOT get the worm this time...in fact, it is quite the opposite!

CONGRATS, SAMMIE!!

Watch your email inbox for further details on how to claim your free copy of Creative Spaces from Creating Keepsakes!

If you'd like your own copy of Creative Spaces from CK, it is available at Scrapbook.com for only $14.99!

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:WORD ART: Fall Word Art Pack

I've got a new word art pack available just in time for the cooler weather and beautiful changing colors!

Fall Word Art Pack

Check out this and all my other word art packs available through MyMemories,Scrapbook Boutique and PrintMaster.

While these designs are in available in several formats for use with any digital software program, if you are looking for an easy and affordable digital scrapbooking software, you should definitely give My Memories Suite a look. It is great for digital scrapbookers of all levels or even traditional scrapbookers that are looking to supplement their paper crafting in order to complete more layouts and/or be able to craft even when away from home and supplies.

My Memories Suite is currently the #1 rated digital scrapbooking software on the market.

Read more about all the great features of My Memories Suite here.

GET $10 OFF!!

My Memories Suite already has a great price, but I have a $10.00 OFF coupon code for you to try it for yourself! Simply copy and paste the code STMMMS74998 at checkout to receive you discount.

:GIVEAWAY: Creative Spaces from Creating Keepsakes [CONTEST CLOSED]

I have a straight up giveaway for you today.

I have an extra copy of CK's special issue titled Creative Spaces.

All you have to do is answer the following question by 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 22nd, 2011 and you'll be entered for your chance to win:

What is your favorite thing about your own creative space?

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:QUOTES: Favorites from Maya Angelou...

Maya Angelou is a well-known poet and playwright. Clearly, she has a way with words and here are a few of my favorite quotes by her.

Quote 1:
“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.”

Quote 2:
“The happy heart runs with the river, floats on the air, lifts to the music, soars with the eagle, hopes with the prayer.”

Quote 3:
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

READER RESPONSE:

Vote for your favorite quote and I'll create a word art freebie with the 'winning' quote to share with you sometime next week. In the meantime, check out my other word art downloads.

:LAYOUT: I Love math!

So far, Kaitlin is having a great time in 3rd grade. And, she still loves math. Math and art are currently her two favorite subjects.

The three chipboard elements create a visual triangle. The notebook paper edge on the journaling block are perfect for this school-themed page.

Journaling:
Grade One
I have to admit that I was a little surprised when you expressed that math was now your favorite subject a few weeks into first grade. You go girl!

Supplies:
Cardstock: Bazzill
Patterned Paper: Imaginisce
Chipboard: Imaginisce
Letter Stickers: October Afternoon, Making Memories
Ribbon: Offray
Ink: Colorbox
Pen: Zig
Corner Rounder: Marvy
Decorative Edge Punch: EK Success
Decorative Edge Punch: Fiskars

:9/11: Reflect

“Now, we have inscribed a new memory alongside those others. It’s a memory of tragedy and shock, of loss and mourning. But not only of loss and mourning. It’s also a memory of bravery and self-sacrifice, and the love that lays down its life for a friend–even a friend whose name it never knew."

President George W. Bush, December 11, 2001

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Photo Credit: A 9/11 tribute poster encouraging people to look back and reflect after 10 years by the advertising agency of Extra Credit Projects, Grand Rapids, USA.

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Don't Say Cheese! from Ella Publishing

I apologize that I'm a little late in announcing the winner of this week's giveaway...been a busy week.

CONGRATS, SHERRY!

Please watch your inbox for more details on how to claim your prize.

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:SPONSORS: September 2011 AMOM Sponsors

ELLA PUBLISHING CO.

Don't Say Cheese! is the newest eBook offering from Ella Publishing Co.

Ella description:
In Ella's longest eBook to date, Rebecca Cooper is back with a new photography guide that's all about taking photos of kids. This 52-page downloadable eBook is packed with 247 tips, tricks, and ideas to help you capture your children's real smiles and authentic expressions—images that show who they really are (and go far beyond asking a child to just "say cheese").

Drawing on Rebecca's years of professional experience with little kids' photography, this eBook is divided into sections specifically for children, toddlers, babies, and newborns. With all this, plus the bonus Photo Games and Checklists section, you'll be capturing real smiles in no time at all—and having a great time with your kids along the way. Save the cheese for your pizza and try Rebecca's tips for photographing children instead!

In case you missed it, I posted a preview of this issue on Monday and you have until 5 p.m. CST today to enter for a chance to win a free copy. Enter by leaving a comment to Monday's post.

GET IT SCRAPPED

Scrapbooking Travel is one of the newer course offerings available at Get it Scrapped!

Here's a brief description form their website:
"Chronicling your travels on scrapbook pages allows you to relive the trip even when you’re back home. Photos, memorabilia, facts and journaling impressions are all part of making scrapbook pages that capture the trip."

I posted a review detailing a bit more on the contents of the class previously on the AMOM blog. Check it out here.

See other current class offerings in the Get It Scrapped! box in the right sidebar!

NICOLE LOMBARDO

Nicole's always got great new die cut designs available at her Etsy shop...and old favorites in new colors and textures as well.

This month, this Heart with Wings Scroll design caught my eye. This particular scroll design is currently available in black and red as well.

Check out her store for more great items!

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WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BECOMING A SPONSOR OF THE AMOM BLOG? If so, please contact me and I would be happy to provide you with further details.

:LAYOUT: Just the Way You Are

As soon as I heard the lyrics of this song, I knew that I wanted to use them on a layout featuring some favorite photos of Kaitlin.

She went through a period when she didn’t like her smile much thanks to a couple missing teeth, but I loved her smile just the same.

(click for a larger view)

Journaling:
When I see your face
There's not a thing that I would change
Cause you're amazing
Just the way you are
And when you smile,
The whole world stops and stares for awhile
Cause girl you're amazing
Just the way you are

(Lyrics from Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars)

Supplies:
Patterned Paper: Pink Paislee
Letter Stickers: Pink Paislee
Rub ons: Bo Bunny
Flowers: Prima, craft store
Button: Bazzill
Brads: Making Memories
Corner Rounder: Marvy
Ink: Colorbox
Font: American Type

:WORD ART: Walk with Nature Quote Word Art Freebie

While all three quotes were beautiful in their own right, Muir's quote about nature won by a landslide in the quote vote.

I hope you enjoy this word are freebie...and perhaps have a chance to enjoy a walk with nature sometime soon!

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD

Be sure to check out my other word art downloads to make sure you haven't missed any.

If you'd like to make sure that your voice is heard in the quote vote for my next word art freebie, subscribe by email or your favorite reader using the options at the top of the inner right sidebar.

:REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Don't Say Cheese from Ella Publishing [CONTEST CLOSED]

What is the most personal element that you can add to any scrapbook layout?

Photos, of course!

Isn't it all of our wonderful moments and memories caught on film that got us wrapped up in this wonderful hobby of scrapbooking, after all?

Well, I don't know one scrapbooker that doesn't strive to make the most of their photos and Ella Publishing has a great new eBook available to offer you all the tips and tricks you need to really make your photos shine called Don't Say Cheese! written by family and children's photographer Rebecca Cooper.

Description from Ella:
In Ella's longest eBook to date, Rebecca Cooper is back with a new photography guide that's all about taking photos of kids. This 52-page downloadable eBook is packed with 247 tips, tricks, and ideas to help you capture your children's real smiles and authentic expressions—images that show who they really are (and go far beyond asking a child to just "say cheese").

Drawing on Rebecca's years of professional experience with little kids' photography, this eBook is divided into sections specifically for children, toddlers, babies, and newborns. With all this, plus the bonus Photo Games and Checklists section, you'll be capturing real smiles in no time at all—and having a great time with your kids along the way. Save the cheese for your pizza and try Rebecca's tips for photographing children instead!

Here's a few pages to give you an idea of all the wonderful ideas (and photo samples) inside:

There are five sections: Natural Newborn Photos, Beautiful Baby Photos, Terrific Toddler Photos, Authentic Kid Photos and Photo Games & Checklists.

Each section starts out with an amazing list of tips and tricks and is followed by an array of amazing sample photos. Each sample photo include a "How I Got the Shot" commentary from the author and specific camera specs.

At the end, there are four checklists of 25 shots to take of your kids...one for each season!

GIVEAWAY:
I have a free copy of Don't Say Cheese! to give away to one lucky reader. Simply leave a comment answering the following question by 5 p.m. (CST) on Thursday, September 8, 2011 and you'll be entered for a chance to win.

Do you have difficulty getting natural expressions out of your photo subjects? Do you have any tried and true technique for getting a 'keeper'?

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:PHOTOS: Black Hills Vacation...Day Four

It may have taken a while for me to get through all our vacation photos, but the vacation itself sure flew by.

We might have been heading back east (and home) on our fourth day, but we still had a very full day planned.

First up was a quick stop at Wall Drug...

"Mom! Look where Dad put his hand!"

Throughout the trip, we had been keep a list of all the state license plates and added quite a few just by walking up and down the street at Wall Drug.

We ended up with every state except Vermont and Hawaii. We also had about four Canadian provinces on our list!

Then, it was off for a drive through the Badlands. Talk about some amazing views!

Kaitlin wanted a closer look.

I found this lonely little flower in the Badlands...actually one of my favorite pics from the day.

Justin and Kaitlin had to get some climbing in, of course.

On the way out of the Badlands, we stopped at Prairie Dog Town.

This guy was hungry...

Then, since none of us had ever been to the Oahe Dam, we decided it was a must see stop, especially with the record water releases.

Obviously, the water was a lot higher than normal!

This water was rushing out of pipes that are 15 feet in diameter.

Then, we took Hwy 183 and came across this...

I guess we didn't have to drive all the way across the state to see buffalo.

Of course, it was totally worth it...can't wait for another family vaca!!