I am an ordinary day kind of scrapbooker. The everyday moments, especially looking back from the perspective and distance of time, hold extra meaning. That and the fact all of the "special events" in my life and that of my family are usually organized by me and since I'm the keeper of the camera not many of them are recorded in photo form.
Recently I was given an opportunity, by Elizabeth Dillow and the ladies at Ella, to make a layout of one day in my life, hour by hour and it was recently featured over at the Ella Publishing, Co. Ezine.
The Challenge: Set aside a single day and take one photo on the hour, every hour from the moment you wake until the moment you fall asleep. Set a kitchen timer, an alarm on your phone or watch, or another reminder to help keep you on schedule. Keep your camera (or camera phone) with you all day, and when you hear the alarm, stop what you're doing and snap an authentic, in-the-moment photograph. At the end of the day, gather up all of your images and make a layout!
MATERIALS: Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Paper: Basic Grey; Lasercut Paper: KI Memories; Stickers: American Crafts; Adhesive: Stampin' Up Dimensionals; Punches: Creative Memories Circle Punch (3/4" and 1"); Font: VTPortableRemington
I thought my biggest challenge would be to remember to take a photo each hour, but I managed that without a hitch (perhaps my many 12 of 12 challenges prepared me!). When I set out, I didn't realize what a long day it was going to be and the resulting 18 photos. I really wasn't sure how I'd manage to fit them all on a 12x12 page - with journaling! My solution included having my photos printed 2"x3" and then trimmed and mounted them from that size. I think the mats help to separate each event. Then I added dimension in order to give the illusion of space and movement. The circle buttons for the time helps with the flow and the hour distinctions. Even though it was a busy day, I didn't want the layout to look too cluttered. I think I accomplished what I was trying to do.
Biggest reward: No two days are the same in my world, with four kids our lives are fluid, changing day to day. I'm so glad I recorded one of those days! I'm sure when I look back - next month, next year, when I'm old and gray(er) - I'll be amazed at how much a day held.
Head on over to the article and see the gorgeous examples shown by Elizabeth as well as Kim Byrns and Danielle Hunter. Elizabeth had such lovely things to say about all of the layouts featured.
While you're there, be sure to consider downloading a copy of the new Ella E-Book:
I don't know about you, but I love the Ella EBooks - they are all so well done. This one is my favourite ... until the next one comes out!