Ali Edwards's Blog, page 110
August 4, 2020
Project Life® 2020 | April
Today I'm diving back into my 2020 Project Life album and telling the story of April.
My approach to this project this year is fairly loose with my main goal being to simply tell a general story of each month this year. It doesn't need a ton of decoration or design - give me a home for my words and photos and a few embellishments and that feels like enough for right now (read more about establishing your own "enough" in memory keeping here).
Here's a look at how April came together in my album:
For this month I started using a few of the products from the April Stories By The Month kit and then also pulled a bunch of things from the new Ups + Downs Collection (which seemed much more in line with the stories I was telling vs. "spring cleaning").
On top of my 3x4 photos I added embellishments from the Ups + Downs Collection along with a few other things that were just sitting out on my table (often these are add ons or things from other Story Kits).
I played around with a few different sizes including full page 6x8 and full page 9x12.
One of my most favorite photos from April was the shot of Ernie hanging from the screen door. Yep.
Our lives shifted dramatically starting in March and continued into April. My photos and my words speak to that shift. I included photos of the kids doing distance learning and a zoom call we did with our Creative Team.
For April I decided to copy + paste a bunch of my written content from Instagram. I love that I can use that as a holding place for many of my stories. Sometimes I bring them all together like this and sometimes I add the text directly to my photos, etc.
I added in another 6x8 page protector to accommodate the number of 3x4 photos I printed and also added a couple 3x4 journal cards from the April Stories By The Month kit. I like the opportunity to group "like" photos together (like the house projects we had started back in March before the quarantine).
On top of most of my photos I added some kind of embellishment or sticker. I didn't stick to a specific design formula this time and simply added what felt good in the moment.
Here's a look at how this project came together:
9x12 Album (currently available)
9x12 Page Protector 3B
9x12 Multipack Page Protectors
6x8 Full Page Protector
6x8 4-pocket Page Protector
April Stories By The Month™ Kit (digital version available)
Avery Index Tab
Staz On Ink
Epson PictureMate PM400 Printer (for 5x7 and smaller)
Epson Expression XP15000 Printer
Ups + Downs Chipboard Sheet
Ups + Downs Plastic Circles
Ups + Downs Paper Die Cuts
Ups + Downs Puffy Sticker Sheet
July 29, 2020
AE Creative Team | July 2020 Stories By The Month™ Digital Kit
Whether it's outdoor adventures or sunny summer memories, the July 2020 Stories by the Month™ Digital Kit is perfect for all of your July stories. And today we are happy to share some project inspiration from our awesome Creative Team.
As always, we are so grateful to our Creative Team for sharing their projects and the stories of their lives with us!
July 24, 2020
Kids Jobs + Screentime
Back in late June we started a new job/screen system with the kids and I wanted to share a bit about what's working and share the PDF we are using.
If you are new here we are a blended family that includes 5 kids: 11, 11, 13, 15 and 18. Friday's are our transition days with the kids either coming back here or going to their other homes each Friday afternoon. Over the years we've done a number of different schedules and week on/week off seems to be working well for all of us right now.
Here's what I wrote on Instagram when I first shared about what we were trying out:
In our what feels like a never ending quest to encourage balance + personal responsibility we are trying something a little different with the kids this summer. Rather than establishing a daily screen-time limit we are starting off with a focus on tracking screen usage (they all have that ability on their devices) + a daily job for the house + a good deed + exercise + reading. We told them all that we aren’t setting specific limits, instead we are giving them the opportunity to show us they are living life with screen-time NOT as the main part of their day but as a supplement. I made a new chart (each kid gets a clipboard + chart) and each kid is assigned a daily job (some rotate daily between all the kids, others are once a week and others are just things that need to be done at random times) to be completed by 4pm. These charts are to be filled out at bedtime and include space for them to document a good deed - something they saw and took care of for the house without being asked. The goal with the tracking - at least in the beginning - is for them to see just how much time they spend in front of a screen over the course of the week. No one will get in trouble - it’s more an opportunity for discussion and ownership of their own choices. We’re viewing this first week as a trial to see how it goes and will make adjustments as we go. We are also doing “take a break Tuesday” where there will be no screen-time, MarioKart Monday where we’ll play together, Adventures With Ali on Thursday’s (hike, bike, etc). Bring on the personal responsibility and balance!
So after having this system in place for a few weeks and letting everyone get used to it I can tell you that it's working for us. It's imperfect but that's okay. And right now, okay feels just fine.
Here's what I like about this approach so far:
Kids are helping out around the house more than ever before. This is good for them + it's good for us. Aaron and I sit down every Friday or Saturday morning and establish the jobs. Some of them are recurring every week such as Dinner Assistant, Vacuum Upstairs, Vacuum Downstairs, and on Friday's they are all in charge of changing their sheets + cleaning up their rooms before taking off for their other homes. Other jobs are established based on things we see that need to be done on any given week: weeding in the yard, steam cleaning the floors, washing cars, etc. Some jobs fit better with some kids. Some jobs are easier than others and if we give someone something super easy one week then we take that into account for the next time they are here. Having the kids keep track of how much time they spend on screens/TV/etc without having a specific limit has been working for us. This is the first time we've done this before - previous to this we've always had a specific limit of time for screens (and life in general looked different obviously) - usually 1 hour on a school day and 2 hours on weekends. That worked okay and we felt good about limiting to help decrease the "importance" of it BUT we found ourselves constantly monitoring them all the time and that just wasn't working well for anyone any more. Our goal in switching to this set up is to give them the opportunity to regulate themselves. Some of them are better at that than others and that's okay too. It's opened up new conversations about personal responsibility and using screens as an "accent" to your life rather than the main activity of the day. We are also taking into account the fact that we are still basically quarantining + the kids have very, very limited in-person social interactions. Just a note that we use the built-in Screen Time app within their phones to track their time and also ask them to include in their total any time watching TV/playing video games. We've told them we are just looking for honest numbers and that there aren't consequences for going over + continuing to emphasize that we want it to be a supplement to their day rather than the main piece. I adjusted the sheet after the first week to give them actual space to write down their exercise + reading for the day. Both are activities that are just expected as part of their day. The "good deed" section got a lot of attention the first week and then it's been less of a focus. I'm planning on bringing that back to the forefront again this week when they are here. It's their responsibility to look for an opportunity to do something for someone else or for the house each day. Again, just having that be part of the conversations we are having around here is good.Take A Break Tuesday with no screens/tv/video games has been okay too - some ups + downs with that for sure including kids going overboard the next day. Right now we are just watching + paying attention + using it all as opportunities for conversation.
We also established that one day each week they are here is Adventure With Ali day. That's been going awesome - we are seeing fun new places around us that we've never visited and it's giving us a chance to do something together away from the house out in nature (we are mostly doing things that involve swimming in rivers/creeks). It's been fun to have something to look forward to and it's getting me away from my desk (which can sometimes be hard).
In reflecting back on our years of parenting I don't think this system would have worked as well for us during some years/times which makes so much sense when you think about all the ages + stages + surrounding circumstances. Our kids are all getting into the older range vs. the "little kid" time and things that worked when they were little are different. Again, yes, totally okay! We adapt, we evolve, we grow, we try new things until they don't work and then we try something else.
Again, it's imperfect but that's okay! I've attached the PDF of the job chart and another PDF for menu planning below. If they work for you, awesome! If they don't that's okay too.
Download the Job Chart/Screentime Tracker here.
Download a weekly dinner Menu Planning page here.
As we look forward (man it's hard to look forward right now) we don't know what's going to happen with all the kids schools. This year Elliot + Isaac will be at the same high school, Simon will be at community college, and the girls are entering 6th grade at different schools. We generally don't go back until after Labor Day and for obvious reasons this year is touch + go. I imagine that this chart will evolve as we move into the next phase of life this fall whether or not they are in their classrooms or doing distance learning here.
July 21, 2020
Ups + Downs Collection Preview
Last year during one of our planning meetings we decided to do a collection that focused on stories of Ups + Downs. Below you'll see a kit I designed back in December with the knowledge that the stories of our lives are always a combination of loving + struggling.
Real life storytelling - including the lows + the highs - is at the heart of memory keeping for me. I don't believe you have to tell every hard story, but I do believe that the acknowledgment that there are really hard pieces in all our stories helps us to connect with + have empathy for all the different ways stories evolve (in both our own lives and the lives of others). For me personally, it helps me make sense of my life.
I'm super excited to bring you a collection of products intentionally designed to help support your stories - both the highs + the lows. This collection will be available on Wednesday, July 22 at 9am Pacific. These products will be available digitally on the first Friday of next month (we release new digitals on the first Friday of each month).
This collection includes the option to purchase a bundle which includes all the journal cards + embellishments or you can purchase them individually. There are two stamp sets with this release that are available separately.
Here's a video overview of the options included in this collection:
And here's a break down of the products:
UPS + DOWNS BUNDLE // $54.99 (discount included for purchasing the bundle)
For this release you have a choice to either grab the bundle or select + purchase pieces individually.
I'm looking forward to see what kinds of stories you choose to tell with these supplies.
Thank you for your support!
July 16, 2020
AE Creative Team | August 2020 Stories by the Month™ Physical Kit
Stories of real life. Stories of transition. Stories of saving the last bit of summer. Today we are delighted to share some creative inspiration from our awesome Creative Team using the August 2020 Stories By The Month™ Physical Kit.
There are so many storytelling possibilities in this little pouch of products. As always, we are so grateful to our Creative Team for sharing their stories and creative inspiration with all of us!
July 13, 2020
Roam Story Kit™ + August 2020 Stories By The Month™
In the
Story Classroom this month we are focusing on stories related to the theme of Roam.
Here are a few thoughts about this particular theme:
Roam is a word that can be used for travel stories (past, present, future dreams) as well as stories of how you move around your town. This month we are telling stories about roaming close to home and much, much farther.
Initial story ideas for this theme include:
Where do you roam? Around town, across the country, across the world? Tell a story about the places you go (or maybe where aren't roaming right now).
These days "roam" has a second meaning apart from travel that relates to cell phones. Do you have a story related to "roaming" issues with your phone (maybe this isn't an issue any more for you or maybe it is). Remember that everyday life stories like this show a piece of the world we live in right now.
Do you ever just roam around your town with a specific story in mind? Tell a story about what you've encountered when you've roam around your own city (or yard or inside your house, etc). STORY KIT™
The
Story Kit™ includes:
Here's a video overview of the
Story Kit™ and Add-On options this month:
The
Stamp Set:
Here's a video overview of the Story Stamp:
DIGITAL STORY KIT™ (Included with the STORY CLASS)
Your digital kit and the classroom and any Add-Ons purchased will be available to you on the 15th once your card has been charged for the month.
Here's a look at what's included in the Digital Story Kit™:
And a couple peeks at the layouts I created with the kits this month in addition to the one featured at the top of this post (
full details, including process videos and how-to handout, are included with subscription):
Again, thanks so much for subscribing and/or considering my
Story Subscription program! If you have any questions about this program please let me know below in the comments.
Stories By The Month™ kits include 4x6 chipboard, 3x4 and 4x6 cards, a 3x4 stamp, a sticker sheet, and an embellishment (wood veneer, cork, etc). Stories By The Month™ Kits are all based on the designs we offered digitally each month throughout 2019.
Here is a full look at the kit:
And a video overview:
This subscription is a great option for those who are looking to tell more calendar/everyday life sorts of stories.
Add On options are available to all Story Kit™, Story Stamp™, and Stories By The Month™ subscribers
(this excludes Digital Story Kit/Story Class subscribers since you don't have any part of your subscription shipped already). Please note that the Crafters Ink pad option will only be available to Story Stamp™ subscribers.
Current and new subscribers can select + purchase Add-On's via your new drop-down menu access under your user name in the top right corner of the site.
Depending on product availability subscribers may be able to purchase the Add-On's after the Add-On period has ended and regular shop shipping rates will apply because they will ship separately from the kit.
July 10, 2020
AE Creative Team | KINDNESS Story Kit™
This past month we have been focusing on stories of kindness, both given and received. And today we are delighted to share these awesome projects from our Creative Team using the KINDNESS Story Kit™.
And as a reminder, this Sunday, July 12th, is the last day to subscribe and receive the KINDNESS-themed products.
As always, we are so grateful to our Creative Team for sharing their stories and creative inspiration with all of us!
July 1, 2020
For The Love Of Books | What I Read In February - June 2020
Well 2020, you have been "interesting" to say the very least.
I think I went for a full month without reading a book at all (except way too much news). I was so happy once I found myself able to read again and have been going strong ever since.
I've ordered so many books over the last month or so that I hope to read throughout the rest of the year. Many of them are non-fiction books focused on anti-racism. Books are such an amazing way to open our eyes, minds, and hearts and I'm totally here for that.
Here's a quick look at what I read between February and June.
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett // Whenever a book stirs up a lot of emotions for me, and makes me think about pieces of my own story in different ways, I feel so thankful at the end. I loved the intermixing of stories over time. Beautifully written. Will likely be a favorite from this year.
White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo // This book is a decent place to begin the process of unlearning + learning more about systemic racism. It's written by a white author speaking to a white audience. I'm glad I read it but will be looking for the rest of the books I read on this subject to be from Black voices. Next up related to this topic is either going to be How To Be An AntiRacist by Ibram Kendi or The Warmth Of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson.
Dreamland Burning by Jennifer Latham // I ordered this one after seeing talk about it online - it's categorized as Young Adult. The story is set in two time periods - today and 1921 during the Tulsa Race Massacre. I thought it was well researched, written and loved the back and forth between the time periods (I think that's something I'm just a fan of generally). I wanted to read a book that talked about this piece of American history because it's something I never learned about in all my schooling - including when I was in college studying American History + Political Science. I think it's important to note that this book is written by a white woman as you may run into that criticism when reading reviews. Simply being more aware of who has written the books I'm reading and diversifying what I am reading is my goal.
Where To Begin: A Small Book About Your Power To Create Big Change In Your Crazy World by Cleo Wade // Last night I picked this book from the shelf near my bed to read before falling asleep. It’s a quick + beautiful book with words (both poetry and prose) that ask questions and words that lead us towards love. You can read it front to back or pick it up and flip to a page and be given a gift through her use of language. The front flap of the book says, “Where To Begin is perfect for those who are ready to be a part of building a society rooted in love, acceptance, justice, and equality.” Loved it. Needed it.
A Good Marriage by Kimberly McCreight // Enjoyed this fast paced thriller. Good twists + turns. Perfect when you want a distraction and a can't-put-it-down story.
The Book Of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd // I finished this book last night and decided to sleep on it before writing up a review. After my walk this morning I texted a friend, "I found it so interesting to really think of Jesus' human self. I don’t think I’ve ever taken the time to imagine that piece of him so clearly." I felt filled up after reading this fictional account of the life of Ana - wife of Jesus and woman with a voice. I love books that make me think and dive deeper and ask questions and this one certainly did and it was so, so welcome - I think I've been hungry for this kind of book for awhile. This will be a story that sticks with me and that I might possibly read again (which is super rare for the way I read).
Hidden Valley Road: Inside The Mind Of An American Family by Robert Kolker // Spent part of my afternoon today finishing this book which is a fascinating true story of a family where 6 of the 12 children are diagnosed with schizophrenia and the ways their family has contributed to the scientific study of the disease. Not light reading but super interesting and important and well-written.
The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward // This was a book club pick for my local group. It's light - not my normal genre - but it was a fun "beach read" style of book.
The Guest List by Lucy Foley // Enjoyed this mainly because it finally got my back into reading again. Fast, interesting read!
June 29, 2020
My Story Album | Guest Post by Elizabeth Heinz
Happy Monday friends! Today Ali is delighted to welcome Creative Team member Elizabeth Heinz who is sharing her process and design inspiration for this awesome mini album she created with products from the My Story Collection.
Hello friends. I’m DELIGHTED to share this 3x8 album using Ali’s “My Story” Kit (1st and 2nd release). I created this as a GIFT for my son’s girlfriend, Emma. She’s one of those 2020 seniors who’s SADLY missing out on her final semester of high school. I thought she’d ENJOY a keepsake that CELEBRATES her friendships, adventures and hobbies and HIGHLIGHTS her future plans and goals.
Here’s a walk through via video.
Let’s take a closer look at each section of the album.
I opened the album with a transparency title and a full-page photo of Emma (OUTSIDE of the page protector). I covered the back with patterned paper and added a chipboard rainbow.
Like many albums, I created a SIMPLE design formula. I used the transparency dividers, labels and puffy circle stickers to BUILD sections. The first is “this is ME.”
Inside each section, I used a combination of pocket pages for 3x2 photos or story cards and 3x6 photos or journal cards.
OR pocket pages for 3x4 photos and journal cards.
I LOVE that the kits include MULTIPLE 3x8 journal cards to encourage longer stories. On this one, I used stamps to create EASY bullet-style journaling. I also used the space on the back to include additional photos.
The second section is “hobbies.”
As I mentioned in the video, I did go through several PAST story kits to find 3x4 filler AND journal cards. USE your stash.
This pocket was included in the 1st release. I used it to hold two photo strips that showcase some of Emma’s artwork.
The third section is “MY people.”
The fourth section is “places we GO.”
The fifth section is “adventure.”
The sixth and FINAL section is “dream BIG.”
Thanks SO much for joining me. I hope YOU found some inspiration. This kit is PLAYFUL and FUN and can be used for people of ALL ages.
XO, Elizabeth
My name is Elizabeth and I reside in Peoria, Arizona. I’m married and HAPPILY raising two boys, Bailey (20) and Joshua (18). I also have an AFFECTIONATE Boston Terrier, Bond. I work part-time at Midwestern University as a Standardized Patient. I pretend to be a patient for students going through their clinical rotations. When I’m not crafting, I ENJOY hiking, reading and gardening. I’m PASSIONATE about writing my story. It’s not remarkable but it’s MINE.
https://www.instagram.com/elizabethheinz/
June 23, 2020
AE Creative Team | June 2020 Stories By The Month™ Digital Kit
Celebrating the little delights and summertime memories, the June 2020 Stories by the Month™ Digital Kit is perfect for all of your June stories. And today we are sharing some project inspiration from our awesome Creative Team.
As always, we are so grateful to our Creative Team for sharing their projects and the stories of their lives with us!
