I am so happy to announce that A Sweethaven Summer is now available on Kindle! I've gotten some of the coolest emails from people who've read the book, but the most unexpected note is "this book has made me want to scrapbook again..." I've heard it several times now, and I'm almost surprised--but so happy--that maybe, somehow, reading it will inspire people to tell their own stories (in whatever way they choose.)
Some people aren't as smitten with the book, however, which is evidenced by the first line of Sophia's new story:
"Paige Jones was so excited that she got to see her friends again. She hadn’t seen them all summer since she had to spend it in a boring old cottage in Michigan."
She asked me to "edit" it, and I didn't get much farther than that because it made me laugh. Sophia read the whole book in a weekend, and we've had many conversations since about what she thinks should happen to the characters. I have a feeling one of these days she's going to be my favorite brainstorming partner.
Sweethaven instantly evokes the feeling of being on vacation, something I could desperately use right now...(but couldn't we all?) And in all of my scrapbooking, I'm not sure I've ever done a vacation layout...I don't remember one, so now I'm on a mission to get one made.
My friend, Greta Hammond, created this inspired by Sweethaven layout, focusing on the subject of "Scrapbook a vacation memory..."
There are so many things I love about Greta's layout, starting with the colors. She always has the best colors on her pages. But I especially love the way the journaling block breaks up the strip of photos on this page. It's just a clever way to get the story documented, don't you think?
If you look carefully, you'll see all kinds of neat little layers on this page...just way too fun.
So, are you ready to join in the fun? I'm putting together an awesome prize package (or two) to conclude this little Scrapbooking Challenge, and I'll announce all the rules very soon, but the plan is to have you create a layout based on one of these inspiring pages...(or, if you've read A Sweethaven Summer, you can create one inspired by the book from your own point of view!)
Super fun, right?
People are winning...and here's the proof!
The Winner of the Sweethaven Online Launch Party Day THREE goodies is:

I am a coffee snob! Hard to admit I absolutely LOVE Starbucks it is the ONLY Coffee I drink. Sumatra Bold is my favorite everyday. Carmal Machiatto Venti and Peppermint Mocha Venti are my special treats. Which I was trying to decide today what I was going to order when I come and see you Saturday at Barnes and Noble!!
- Jessica Engel
- Julie P
- Rebecca Lovell
- Martha S.
- Tracie
- Laura L.
- Shannon Taylor
Girls, send me your address to claim your prizes! courtneycrops {at} msn {dot} com.
Congratulations to all the winners! I can't wait to get everything boxed up and shipped off...it's so exciting to send happy mail, isn't it? There's really nothing like opening the mailbox and finding a package waiting for you!
I hope you all have a beautiful Monday!
And come back all week for more inspiring art projects inspired by A Sweethaven Summer...I'd love it if you played along!

