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Friday
Sep262008

Friday's Featured Resource - Ali Edwards

Ali Edwards, Oregon Coast, Summer 2008

 

I don’t scrapbook. I tried it once many years ago and failed miserably. Don’t get me wrong, my pages looked pretty good but I only got 4 done. The End. But when I see the volumes of cool and imaginative scrapbooks created by the incredibly talented Ali Edwards, I swoon. Suddenly I become a scrapbook junkie. Course, I haven’t attempted it again since my first 4 pages but still, I like to look and admire what Ali has done.

When I visit Ali’s blog, I know I want to make something amazing with my photos but then I get overly-inspired and decide I’ll leave it for another day. But then today is gone. Sigh. So, when I read the invitation to join Ali in a simple project to record a week in the life of my life, my family, using my photos, featuring what I see as important today, I will admit, I got a burst of inspired energy and determination. Maybe I can do this. Maybe I’ll start today.

Why this project? Why now? I guess it’s just the thrill of having this moment in time distilled into something tangible. Something I can hold in my hands as a reminder of this priceless and fleeting moment of my life. I take photo and after photo and am usually content with that being the end result. But the idea of using photos as a springboard sparks my interest. It’s as if the photo is just part of the process. It’s a whole new perspective. And it’s as simple as a focusing in on just one week of my life. I think it sounds wonderful and I plan on taking Ali up on her invitation by following along with her on her blog to see what I can come up with. Why not?

Ali is a one woman resource and offers so much via her blog, her books, her columns, etc etc). I encourage you to click around and discover the magic that is Ali Edwards. She’s one heck of a creative gal who likes to share and sharing is good.

Speaking of sharing, Ali has offered to give away 4 books (1 copy of each title ) to lucky readers her at Shutter Sisters today. Be sure to leave a comment today to get into the running…prepare to be inspired. You have until midnight on Saturday to be included in the drawing.

Reader Comments (641)

I love this kind of project - because even if it is the only scrapbooking a person ever does, it will be such a treasure to look back on later.
I may have to wait a little while to participate (my camera is being cleaned :( ) but I definitely intend to.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterfalwyn
My scrapbooking has been very sporadic, I find myself mainly collecting supplies. I plan on taking Ali up on the invitation. She is so amazingly creative.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterBrigitte
It's the first week of the school holidays here in NZ so it's going to be fun to take photos... but I might just have to do it again as well when the kids are back at school and life is a little more routine.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterFiona
Very cool blog. I love how Ali is always challenging us daily.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterRegina Ellison
I am definitely doing this and I am starting tomorrow. I can't wait!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterRachel
Ali Edwards makes scrapbooking manageable, do-able, fun and meaningful! Her approach is relaxed yet her finished project is professional. For anyone wanting to give scrapbooking a go, Ali is in my list of three teacher/guides you MUST turn to.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterpipw
You are so true...she is a total inspiration! And I would totally love to have a book based on her amazing way of looking at life!!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterDiane
This sounds like a fun challenge. Of course, as I look at my work week, each day is the same. Oh well, it will still be interesting to document what I did.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterJoan Abraham
After reading Ali Edwards' Life Artist book, I have been an Ali fan. Her scrapbooking style is an inspiration, she is very talented, and she has achieved what so many women today try to accomplish: a work/life balance. I read her blog every day and continue to be inspired by her. Her new book is on its way to me now.....I can't wait! I will definitely be doing the project described on her blog for this week.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterVerbena
I am always up for a challenge so this will be interesting! Ali's projects are always inspirational.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterDenise L.
winning ali's books would be awesome!!!thanks.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterDebbi G.
I've always loved Ali's work. She is so inspirational :) I'm excited to start this week in the life project. Thanks for the opportunity to win Ali's books!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterGeralyn
I love Ali and am jumping in to "in the life" next week with both feet!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterCarla
Wow, I've never even tried to scrapbook before, but after checking out Ali's work I'm totally inspired!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterqueen zucchini
I agree that Ali has some fabulous resources on her blog. I have not read any of her books but expect that they are equally inspiring.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterlorig
I just started scrapbooking this year and I love it. I don't get to do it as much as I'd like but I am going to do the daily photo thing and see where it leads. I would love to win the books. I love Ali. She is great!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterMelanie
Ali reminds me of what life is all about... slowing down and treasuring that which is important! This project is one I can't wait to begin! Cheers!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commentertannis
Man! What a totally cool opportunity to be inspired by Ali!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterMichelle S
Count me in! :)
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterKate Baumert
Wow! what an amazing giveaway. I love Ali's style and can admit that I have been drooling over her books for quite some time now. Would love to win them.

Leigh Anne
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterLeigh Anne
I regularly read Ali's blog and am always looking for new links to other photographers. Thanks for giving us a heads up for this blog. It will be going in my favorites.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterAlicia F
Looks like a lot of fun! I'm definitely going to play along.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterMarcie
I am *so* going to do this as well. I love being inspired by Ali!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commentertwilsonjeter
I love Ali's work! She's dabomb!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commentertelisj
would love to win Ali's new book!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commentertelisj
Ooo... pick me! Ali is my hero!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterKari D.
I'd have to agree with you...Ali is definitely one inspiring gal. I love checking out her blog and would love her books as a part of my library.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterKelly
Ali makes every day worth celebrating, showing us that everything counts. Even the little things.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterchristine
i'm visiting here all the time, but i'm too shy to share any of my photos here. today i think i'll delurk though, because i love this project :).
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterylva
this is an awesome photo of ali. a great way to capture the beauty of someone so real, so genuine, so honest and so fantastic, cheers to you ali and thanks for continuing to inspire me. i think i'm going to take 'a week in your life' journey, it comes at a good time for me, thank you! creative cheers, rachel
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterrachel carlson
I admirer Ali's take on simplicity. I have taken this approach with scrapbooking and keeping my closet clean. : )
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterChristina
I love Ali and how inspiring she is. She makes you think, like REALLY think... and appreciate all the big and little things....

:) She's inspired me to start scrapbooking... :)
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterAnne in Oregon
There is no better scrapbooker than Ali Edwards. Not that the pages are the most elaborate and have gobs of the latest and greatest product but because they're so real. She truly captures what scrapbooking is all about. If you've never scrapbooked but take fabulous pictures think of what someone will wonder years from now when they see the picture. Who is that girl? Where was she? Why was she dressed up? Did she always wear a single braid? Get it? I have a fabulous picture of a little girl who somewhat resembles me and somewhat resembles my deceased Mother. Oh how I wish I knew who that little girl was! Haven't done this project yet and am so excited she decided to take us all along for the ride! I'll be snappin' pics this week!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterMichelle in Chicago
I am inspired by Ali Edwards and her message of taking the ordinary, day to day events in your life and making it meaningful and memorable. This project is an exciting journey that I am looking forward to exploring.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterAngela
I have recently become a big fan of Ali Edwards. I just received the Creaking Keepsakes DVD that spotlights Ali and loved it. I am excited to try this project of a Week of My Life.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterLisa M
this project is just the inspiration i need right now! i've been on a scrapbook sabbatical since i gave birth to my daughter. my everyday life has definitely changed since!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterLani
I love reading Ali! want to work on her newest project for sure!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterTara
Ali is the one person that inspires me the most in scrapbooking.
She keeps it simple and love that she does pages that are your every day life.
I met her once at CKU Atlanta and I felt like I was meeting a movie star.

Ali your awesome keep up the great work.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterChristine Wilkins
I love Ali and her approach to life and art. There is always something to learn or ponder on her blog.
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterShelly May
I hear you on Ali E - she is super inspiring and I love her work too. Am def going to partake in the Week in the Life project!
September 26, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterKirstie MacGowan
I love scrapbooking! I will go check out her blog. http://flickr.com/photos/maknj/2783440636/in/set-72157606190852774/
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterMAKNJ
I was lucky enough to take an album class from Ali and be inspired. I lucky enough to be introduced to your blog through Ali's blog. Thanks for the inspiration. Love your blog too.
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterCheri D
This is funny because I just tried doing this same thing a few weeks back and got lost about half way through (not keeping up with photos & journaling) but I think I'll give it another try. Would love to turn it into a mini book. Speaking of books, i would love to get my hands on her new book about minis, that would be awesome.
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterJust B
I simply love Ali! I started scrapbooking last year, and I was so hooked to Ali's column in CK magazine, I signed up a 2 years subscription immediately. I had her first 3 books and they always provide me with great inspirations. I love to read what she wrote, as though I am listening to an old friend talking, so sincere, so real. Love her creativity and her spirit!
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered Commenterapril
I'm such a fan of Ali Edwards as most scrapbookers are. She just comes up with such cool ideas and is not afraid of sharing it. I'll definitely play along with this project! :-)
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterCaryl Hope
Like hundreds of other scrappers, I am a devoted Ali fan. Take a class with her and you begin to understand her passion that all things "ordinary" are truly extra-ordinary. Her style is timeless, as are the memories she captures. DO jump in and document a week in YOUR life.
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered Commenteremily
i too check out her blog regularly and just love the inspiration.
and this latest concept? very cool... and relevant for today's busy lifestyle.
what i wouldn't give to peek in on a detailed typical week, long ago of my grandmother's.... or even my mom's. how amazing would it be for our kids and grandkids to look back on what a typical week or handful of days were like for us?
such a great 'piece of heritage' idea!
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterCamille
Extremely excited! I am always the face behind the camera so this is a push to get on the other side! Taking pics of me because this is my life too ~ yeah! Wishing everyone a fun time with this project!
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterKaren
I love Ali's work ad am very excited to try this project. I enjoy scrapbooking but don't have a lot to show for it yet. Thnaks for this chanceas I would love to receve the books to get the extra boost to get out there and scrap. Beverly
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterBeverly
Hi! I'm a big fan of Ali. She is such a good inspiration to a lot of scrapbookers. Hope i'll win one of her books. Thanks for the opportunity.
September 27, 2008 | Unregistered CommenterFaith23

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