one little word

The AEzine is back up and running for 2007.

For those of you that may be new to the site, the AEzine is a weekly newsletter that I started last fall. I try to incorporate bits and pieces of creative information and inspiration - geared towards scrapbooking and life (and the concept of life art). You can check out the past issues here. You can subscribe by entering your email address in the box up on the top right of this blog.

To celebrate the new year I wanted to share the one little word concept which is also featured in this weeks newsletter:

one little word

A single word can be a powerful thing. It can be the ripple in the pond that changes everything. It can be sharp and biting or rich and soft and slow.

Last fall in issue two of this newsletter I wrote about the power of words and gave my top ten tips for getting those words down when you are scrapbooking. Today I want to introduce you to the idea that a single word can be a catalyst for enriching your life as well as your scrapbook layouts.

Last year I began a tradition of chosing one word for myself each January - a word that I can focus on, mediate on, and reflect upon as I go about my daily life. Last year my word was something I wanted to bring into my life in a more tangible way. My word was play.

I thought a lot about play and what it means to me. I tried to incorporate it more into my everyday and on my adventures out in the crazy world. For me, it was a lot about living without fear - about being more open to experiences with an attitude of playfulness. The word play found its way onto many scrapbook pages and into many stories I told throughout the year.

Can you identify a single word that sums up what you want for yourself in 2007?

It can be something tangible or intangible. It could be a thought or a feeling or an emotion. It can be singular or plural. The key is to find something that has personal meaning for you. This is not your mother's word or your spouse's word or your child's word - this is YOUR word.

One little word can have big meaning in your life if you allow yourself to be open to the possibilities. And here's one thing that is totally interesting: sometimes a word will pop into your brain and it will not make any sense to you right now. Give it some time. Let it percolate a bit. I have often found that our hearts speak to us in very unique ways. Maybe this is a word you need to hear but just aren't ready for it yet. Again, be open to the possibilities.

You may be wondering, what in the heck does this all have to do with scrapbooking? For me, words are at the heart of what I do. The photos are a huge part, but the words bring it all home. Often times I will begin a layout with a single word. That word becomes my guide as I create my page. It helps me focus the story I am trying to tell and gives me an instant, easy graphic title approach. How often has a word directed your creativity when working on layouts?

Take some time this week to think about your own word for 2007 and read on for a related
weekly challenge.

And in case you were wondering, my word for 2007 is peace.

weekly challenge

This week your challenge is to create something, anything, that celebrates your chosen word for 2007. Maybe a layout. Maybe a blog posting or a journal entry or a simple post-it note that you put somewhere you can see it each day. Make sure to journal about why you chose your word and what it
means for you - the more you let yourself explore the more benefit you will receive in the end.

Come by my blog and post your response to the challenge on Monday, January 8, 2007. Looking forward to seeing your creations and reading your
thoughts.

I hope everyone has a great day today. And thanks for all the super nice comments on the kit yesterday.

Comments

[Ana Maria Magloire]

Off to do the challenge! I really missed the newsletter. Glad it's back and here to stay, I hope.
Thanks!
Anilu.

[melissa]

Oh Ali!!! you are challenging me and I love it. I am thinking long and hard on this one. Because not only is there a word I probably need to hear - I am sure there is a paragraph out there screaming my name.

Thanks for what you do.

[Jenny A.]

Ali, you have such an insight on how to live! Your words in AEzine came at just the right moment for me. Seriously, you are like the Oprah of scrapbooking. I totally took your advice about thinking about a word and just waiting for it to come to me. And it did. My word is ENJOY. I have so much going on in my hectic life (who doesn't) but yesterday was almost in tears with just trying to catch up with it all. I will ENJOY my life as it is. I do plan on trying to do a layout on this. Again, you and your inspiring words have made me look at my life at a different angle. I will ENJOY the process. Have a wonderful day!

Jenny

[Tina J.]

Immediatley knew my word would be "Health". I'm so excited to get started on something! Thanks, Ali!

Tina J.

[Mary Rogers]

so, I am thinking of my word right now!

Mary

[Lynne]

Freedom. That's my word. Freedom from unrealistic expectations (of myself and others). Freedom from worry. Freedom to let go of old concepts of who I am and what I should be doing with my life. Freedom to embrace the life I am meant to live.

This is awesome. You are awesome. Thank you.

[maria]

Great new challenge! Thanks! Looking forward to post my word next Monday! I think I have just what I want, but I'll give it some more thought.

[JUDE :)]

So I did already pick a word... and posted it here www.pjsareclothes.blogspot.com
I am planning on doing a LO of this as well, but thought I would let you know that your idea was so good, it was like that word/concept was in my head, but without the AEZine prompt, it would've never made it out... so thanks!

[diana]

ACTION....that's my word.

[jenn]

Very cool. I blogged back on jan1 or 2nd that my word for this year is "believe"!

[Frances M]

And I had been thinking about my word too for the past week and it's ORGANIZE. And so bizarre the 3191 visual blog. I've guessed that one of these women in is the NY or east coast area and one in the UK and I just couldn't believe it because my dearest friend who I talk to via email at least 4 times a day is is 3358 miles away in London and I'm here in CT. Too funny! Great AEZine this week!

[Kimberly White]

Thanks for this weeks ezine! I've been looking forward to it all week! Mulling over words in my head .. leaning towards LOVE. Have a great day Ali! Kim

[Trish D]

Loved, loved this issue!! My word for 2007 is FREEDOM. I am currently at work so unable to create a LO immediately, so I have posted on my blog my reasons for this word this year. Thank you, Ali, for all your inspiration!!!

Trish

http://trishmargaret.blogspot.com

[Molly Irwin]

simplicity. It was my theme for 2007 starting with my note to family at Christmas. This challenge is a great launching point for me, as I have felt creatively stuck for a bit. Thanks for the nudge. All the Best, from a new reader - Molly

[reen]

"HAPPY"....It's a feeling, a state of being...it's what I want for 2007. Thanks Ali,

http://www.downmemorylaneco.com/gallery_viewpost.aspx?ID=6661

[Jerrie]

Thanks for this challenge. On my morning walk I thought a lot about what my word should be. The word that kept coming back was believe...I'm excited to now do my layout!

[Beth Wollweber]

Hi ALi:
Happy New Year !! Trying to stay on track with my creative side, today your challenge is for me. I would have to say that my word would be CALM, opposite of Chaos. Hoping to live 2007 closer to calm and further from chaos. Thanks, your the best !!!!
Beth in NY

[noell]

It was a great newsletter and a wonderful surprise this morning!!! I can't wait to work on the challenge. I''m thinking about paint, brushes, my easel, and my giant painter's notebook...

[melanie]

begin...thats my word.

thanks for such a cool idea. i cant wait to begin with my word.

[Diane]

My word for 2007 is reinvent. My only child just went to college and I started an Empty Nesters group and want to try new things, meet new people (mostly nice women but a good man would be great, too!), and do other fun things in addition to being a mom.

Great idea!

[Anna-Marie Still]

Love the diversity already! Isn't it amazing how the same prompt can evoke so many different words - each one specific and personal to each individual! So cool - Can't wait to see the results on Monday!

As for me, I've got my word, no question about it, it came effortlessly - I'm going to ponder it some more, let it work in my soul a bit and then bare my soul on Monday!

Love your process, girl! Time and time again!

[Paula]

Happy New Year to you, Ali.
I signed up for your newsletter & my sister bought your new book designing using patterned papers for my Christmas gift.
I got my first Aezine this morning & am so excited. You have fired me up with your enthusiasm. I have done a blog post about my choice of word & plan a layout as an expansion on this.
Thank You for your Style & wisdom. I am in awe of you!!

[Suzelle Kasaian]

Love this Ali.....my word is balance :)

[Janine]

I loved getting your newsletter and that issue spoke to me. My word is Balance and already I have done a blog entry on this and painted the word dream for my scrap room. I have much more planned!! Thank You Ali.

[Kristine]

SO BUMMED--the kit already sold out. I hope my name on the wait list comes up.

[Laura Z]

Ali, You are so inspiring. I have been reading your blog for a long time now and I just want to let you know I am happy and thankful for the effort into your craft and putting your message "out there" for everyone to enjoy, be inspired by, and to learn and grow from. "Thank you" from the bottom of my heart!
Laura

[Jann Saulsberry]

This is a great challenge. The word my heart spoke was WIFE. After being a single gal for 45 years, by best friend and the dearest man to my heart asked me to be his WIFE. I know this year will be full of challenges...most of them centered around combining our lives into one...and learning how to be a good WIFE! I am definitely doing a layout or perhaps a mini-book on this topic...and may even leave space for a few of my friends that I have watched be good WIVES to give me some advice. I know you are a strong creative woman...but I also see you being so interdependent and unified with your husband as you raise Simon and as each of your pursue your individual passions and careers. Thanks for the challenge...AND the good example! Blessings and my you find PEACE this year.

[Kelly Libby]

My word is "well-being". My main resolutions are about caring more about my friends and families well-being. Basically to be more considerate and less criticial. Then, to care more for my personal/mental health. And, lastly to save more which will in effect care for the well-being of my finanances. Fun. I think i'm going to do a layout of this idea. Hope you and your family are doing well. Looking forward to a great new year. Also, hoping to meet up with you for a class or CKU.

[Penny Brellenthin]

Excellent inspiration today Ali! Love the idea of a word to focus on in 2007. I have chosen EVOKE. I am going to work to evoke the childlike sense of freedom and happiness into my life in 2007. Peace.

[Michelle Clarke]

So this year I have decided to take your weekly challenge every week and post my results. Will get me back to being creative as I haven't been for a while. I read your newsletter and thought one word was easy but there are several words in my head. Will have to settle on one and get started I already know how I am going to celebrate it!! Will post the results on Monday. Happy new year Ali - thanks for being such an inspiration!!

[jan]

thanks you so much for this prompt..it truly was just what i needed and i decided to share my decision on my own blog. thanks so much.
www.jancrowley.typepad.com

[nikki]

My word is more like words - ROCK STAR!

[suetreiber]

I knew right away what my word would be, then I read the others. I have too many good ones to chose from!

[Sandra]

What a great idea. This year I'm going to do it. My word is Accept.

[Rebecca]

patience. 7 months pregnant and a 1 1/2 year old running around, i will endure patience on daily basis.

Will you be talking about this in any of your sessions in Tracy, CA? i am thinking about going, but I need motivation...

[sue]

What a great challenge! I will be thinking about a word for this year and make sure to post on Monday. Thanks.
Sue

[Jennifer]

Thank you so much for these thoughts. They couldn't have come at a better time for me. As I was reading I immediately thought of my word. ORGANIZE. Hopefully keeping this one word at the top of my thoughts will help me to accomplish my goals of organizing more than just the stuff in my life. I'm also trying to work on setting and sticking with priorities so I can accomplish more in my day. Wish me luck!

[Lolly]

This was an amazingly inspiring thing Ali, thank you. It's such a joy to read other people's words on here too :) Really lovely, I feel like the whole world is filled with positivity right now :)

[shirley]

i got my word almost as soon as i started reading. this is somthing that i have decided on for awhile now. i want to be able to share with others friends family and all. thanks for the challenge here is the link to my page

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=155266&cat=500&ppuser=74506

[Linda]

PATIENCE...that is my word for this year. With 3 children (two of them teenagers) and starting construction on a new house PATIENCE is what I am striving for in this new year. Wish me luck :)

[Angel]

I love your newsletter - I find it very inspiring. My word for the year is BLISS.
Angel

[kraftyscraps]

I'm so excited that your newsletter is back! I finally figured out my word . . . be back on the 8th with it. :)

[Hashi]

The first word that popped into my head was "LEARN". At first I protested -- after all, this is the first semester in six years that I haven't enrolled in any college classes. But then I realised that it fits me and where I'm at perfectly! Thanks, Ali!

[stephanie]

What a great challenge..thank you for being so inspiring, so natural, such a great source of everythig! my word is FAITH....I will be back on the 8th to share my Journal!

[millicentB]

Oh Ali, thanks for the inspiration. I will post my "one little word" on Monday. btw - is the AEzine published once a month, once a week, or whenever inspiration hits?

peace,
millicent

[Tracy Whitney]

got my word, blogged about it: CONTENTMENT.
Thanks for the inspiration!

[Marty]

I am torn between two words - contentment and challenge....be content with who I am and what I am, but yet challenge myself to be more, for my husband, my children, my world...and myself.
Thanks for the inspiration you are, Ali! I love your art!

[Daphne]

I was thinking of a word as I was reading your paragraph; and it was: PEACE, seriously. Then, I got to the end thinking you wouldnt post untill Monday and saw it was PEACE so, I have been thinking of my very own word, and I am thinking of JOY, DISCIPLINE, or EXPERIENCE/STEPPING OUT. Hmmm ... I have the whole weekend to pray about it ... I will let you know on Monday. LOVE IT!!! Can I use this at work, home, ...

[Melissa]

My word is TIME, instead of complaining I don't have enough TIME, I'm going to make TIME!

[michelle]

my word for 2007 is HUMANITARIAN. I am excited and have started crocheting baby hats to send overseas. I can't wait to see what this year brings. I also quit smoking so wish me luck!

[Teaque]

Hi Ali - I knew right away - CONTENT. I think I will do my very first page in my 2007 album about that word. And I will be CONTENT if that doesn't happen until well into the next few months - ha ha.... Thanks for the inspiration.

[Danielle Casello]

I LOVED the AEzine this month!!I have been trying to come up with my word all day ling and I think I came up with the one I want. My word is Free. Free to live, love and be. I need to remember this word throughout the year and focus on being just FREE.
(Can't wait to start the lo's!!)

Thanks Ali-You rock!!!

[Aby]

Love this ... and I'm freaking out about it, too. Just this morning - before reading AEzine - I was in my very own bathroom thinking about a word for the year. I've never done this before. Must be a crazy karma thing. Yes? Anyway, I have two, one for family and one for me.

The family word is RESPECT. Seems it is the word that will help us all focus on being better family members. That's the theory anyway. We'll see how it turns out. And for me ... growth ... or perhaps GROW to make it more action oriented.) Anyway ... thanks for all your inspiration and in this case validation ... a word of the year is a good thing.

[Jan]

My word for the year is "Do!". As in, less thinking, less talking, just DO something! So I got busy and tried to "do" a layout today for the first time in awhile, and I just can't get it right--looks like crap. Sigh. Tomorrow I will "do" it over, I guess, lol.

[Shawn]

Ali~I haven't read through the comments to see what anyone else was using as "their" word as I didn't want them to persuade my decision one way or another so the first word that came to mind was CALM. I want to CALM everything in my life...that can be used toward organizing or CALMing the piles, time management or CALMing those moments of panic because something didn't get done in a timely manner, not over extending myself or CALMing my personal schedule. This word fits perfectly into my 2007 goal.
Thanks for your great inspiration!

[Allison]

I know my word right off without even thinking of it - TIME.

I didn't really set any New Year's resolutions this year but I want to be better at managing my time. I need to get more done and be more productive than I am. I need to stop wasting my time. So, that is my goal for the New Year.

And my chosen word (time) also revolves around other aspects of my life that are continually on my mind. I just posted about my countdown to school being out before this. JM is looking forward to finally figuring out where we are going to be going. I'm looking forward to all the new-ness that this (hopeful) move will bring about. So it all boils down to time.

And I look back on things and I realize how far I've come. I'm so much happier now than I've ever been. I'm a much better teacher now. I'm a better scrapbooker now. I'm a better wife now. JM and I have come so far together too. And thus, all of this took time to get to this point too.

So, I'm excited to see what all is going to happen next and see what I think this TIME next year! :)

[chanel]

my word is E N J O Y! but it should also be balance .... it was a hard choice between the two!

[Paige]

Hi Ali! Love this concept and fits so well with the affirmations I have started doing. My word is PROSPERITY. I wrote a little bit about it on my blog: www.paige.typepad.com

Thanks for all the inspiration that you supply and Happy New Year!

[Sharea]

Hi Ali,
This has really inspired me. I feel like I need to tell all my friends about this concept, because it really is so motivating to find the one word that you want to focus on for the year I already feel like I am gonna get so much more done because of focusing on this - anyways thank you.
My word is Free - FREE from debt - FREE to find my own style and to create my way - FREE to play more with my kids - FREEdom from all the little things in life that can get you down. I am excited to have a new focus. It's a new year and I am so excited to have given myself permission to be FREE. I'm feelin in the mood to FREE myself from all this clutter we've built up this year. I told you I was motivated.:)
Thanks Again

[callie]

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Ali.
I will be choosing the word Organize. My life is one big pile in every since of the word. My house, my car, how I do things. my scrapbook room. Everything. I am so looking forward to this project. It is wonderful. Thank you Ali

[jen paddack-hyde]

{simplicity}

It came to me tonight that this is what I want for this year.

[Brenna]

Ali this is such a great idea, thank you so much for all the inspiration you give.
My word for 2007 is LIFE...to live it to the fullest, one day at a time but also I hope that before the year ends I'll have a new little life growing inside me. Someone I can teach and inspire. Thanks again for all you do.

[Heather in Washington State, USA]

My word is PERSPECTIVE. Life gets busy, chores overwhelm, kids fight and cry, traffic snarls, spills happen, patience runs thin. But it is so important to keep things in perspective, to stop and count blessings, to appreciate what I do have and not pine for what I don't, to realize that even as soon as tomorrow, a broken dish or misplaced shoes won't matter -- but harsh words could haunt my kids for life, and tension could affect my health. I must keep things in perspective.

[shirley]

Love this!! My word is BLISS! I blogged about it but also plan to update my banner and make a journal for the year!

[Kim Branson]

The first word that came to mind was, "DISCIPLINE" - because it's one of my weakest areas (relating to myself - my kids are all grown and my time for disciplining them is past) - that word led to thoughts of procrastination (one of my strengths, unfortunately!). And then - all of a sudden - I saw my word: "DO"

Time to stop planning, stop dreaming, stop *thinking* and just "DO." The discipline will come in the "DO"ing. I am currently purging and reorganizing our main bathroom - I was already planning to create a clock on artist's canvas to hang on the wall. When I *do* it will be my daily reminder to LIVE my LIFE and not just wait for life to *happen* to me.

Thank you for the inspiration, Ali -- Blessings on you, Chris and Simon for an excellent 2007 :)!

Hugs from Alaska - kimB

[maria]

I got it. My word is CELEBRATE. As in celebrate life. Celebrate all the things you are passionate about. Celebrate love and friendship. Celebrate you! I can't wait to create a page on my word for this year! Thanks for the inpiration!

[Mel Nunn]

Hey Ali... Cool newsletter!. I have decided that my word for this year is going to be GROW. I am going to grow out of a few bad habits, grow my knowledge and skills, and attend to my family's growth by learning, playing and having fun together. (Also growing my wealth would be cool too!)

Take care,
~mel~

[moki]

I took careful consideration. Last year was all about ENRICHMENT and I figured this year is too, but less about my relationships and photo career and more about enriching my home life as better mother and house keeper. I REALLLY do need order in my house. Thanks Ali for the inpsiration!

[corinne delis]

I wish I could say Balance is my word for 2007, but I think time management will be the word for this year and hopefully my word for 2008 will be balance, I sure am goign to work on it.

corinnexxx

[Suzanne]

My word for this year is: Simplicity

[Helen Shields]

My word definitely has to be ACCOMPLISH, yes finally get over the I am to busy, with three litte ones, husband away in the military, move house 500 miles away in 4 weeks and start again it has to be accomplish. Not only looking after and taking care of the above but also to take care of me and accomplish some of my personal and crafting goals.

[Karen]

ali- i've never written to you before, but after reading what the challenge was i just had too. my word for 2007 is HARMONY... you know like everyone working together to help make peace and happiness... i can't wait to do the challenge. i am out of town, so i won't be able to post it on monday, but i will be posting it. i am so inspired... thank you for all you do

karen

[Ally]

Hi Ali Love the newsletter and had my word in a split second - CHANGE. Change in work, moving house, the way I look at life, meeting new people, my scrapping style trying new things.... 2007 is going to be a great year!!!!

[Tara]

My word is patience...

I have just had our second child and I want to be patient with both her and ds.

Also patient with myself if I don't get things done as quickly as I would like - like housework - instead take time out to spend with my children or a bit of me time instead.

[Karen Wiederhold]

Simplicity (is Freedom)

This is my affirmation for the year. Simplicity allows freedom in creativity, work and life. Freedom is breathing space to enjoy, experience, explore and relax more. Getting back to the basics and appreciating the space and peace.

[Jennie M]

I've chosen

FEAR

It stops me from doing so much, as my blog http://jenniemcalpine.blogspot.com/ will show over the year.

Can't wait to sink my teeth into this one. It was in my mind before reading your newsletter, just didn't know what to about it untill after reading your newsletter, So Thank you :)

[steph]

You never stop inspiring me, Ali...

My word for 2007 is: Change.

We need lots of that around here...

[Jude]

CALM! My word is calm. I will not get worked up by work, school, home, kids, husband, demands, no time, always in the car, etc. I will walk through it all with a sense of calmness! Or at least I will try!

[Missy K]

Ali--

Love your inspiration, and this concept! My word for 2007 is GRACE-- experiencing it from God, extending it to my husband, my kids, and the world in general, releasing perfection to drink in grace.

Thanks for the venue to think this through!

[Kim]

My word is now my blog banner......

[Ann Marie]

MOVE

:-)

[Tracey]

My word is going to be ART... I have sooo many art books, postcards and inspiration to use that I seem to forget about. I will be making a suitable arty wall piece this weekend, can't wait!! Thanks for such a good idea Ali... and how awesome was Simon's prayer, so adorable!!
Tracey xx

[liz]

HAPPINESS
i need to find it in my everyday, work, home, children etc.
thanks

[Karol]

Just blogged about my word the other day. My plan is to SIMPLIFY my world. Hoping to do a layout a week that helps me represent how my life is becoming more SIMPLIFIED. Love your inspiration.

[melanie]

Done my little word layout on my blog. LOVE this idea. my word this year is 'do' being so apt for the year I have surgery, travel further than ever before, and make every effort to take part, be in pictures (instead of behind the camera allllllllllll the time!) and get out more. Thankyou so much for my inspiration.
http://britgirl.typepad.co.uk/

[Scrapdolly]

This is a fabulous idea and I am definitely going to try and make my word my focus.
I have blogged about it so it is public knowledge now therefore I MUST TRY!
Thank you

[Diane]

Hi Ali...my word is HEAL. 2006 into 2007 are filled with many changes, sadness, depression and anxiety. I look beyond this to the good stuff I hope is waiting at the end of all of my life changes. Then it will be time for my healing process to begin. Thanks for motivating us. Diane from Cape Cod

[Lisa H.]

Wow. So cool. I thought of my word right away as soon as I began reading the blog. CALM. Calm inside, outside for him and them (my family). I'm loving this. I feel a journal entry coming on. Thank you.

[Aimee]

Great challenge Ali!
My word is HEALTH.
Healthy mind.
Healthy body.
Healthy family for 2007.
Thanks for the inspiration. You are a light in the world.

[Rebekah]

My word for 2007 is: BALANCE

[PamMc]

This is a timely challenge for me as I've been thinking of this year that is so fresh and new. My word is simplify. It is my desire to purge my home of 'things' that I have accumulated which no longer have meaning or use and to search for the core of my desires so I can use my time well.

[Stacy]

My word is CREATE. We're having a baby this year. :-)

[Sara Frankl]

My word is TRUST. As my health worsens and my abilities are challenged, I have to trust that I am where I am supposed to be and serving a purpose I may not even realize. Whatever happens in the future this year, I am going to trust that God brought me to it and will bring me through it. TRUST.

[Italiangirl]

JOY--always have loved this word and I've adopted it as my mantra for 2007. I've decided that I will find JOY in all that I do this year and all the situations that I face. Too often I'm bogged down with what isn't right or how awful something is.

BTW: DH would rather I adopt "organize, clean, declutter" as my word, but it's my word, and not his. I do plan on doing the other things, though, as I'm sure they will help me to find some JOY.

[Andrea D]

most definitely JOY. i had an awesome Christmas season and can't even imagine how it is going to change my life as i try to keep the "holiday" perspective throughout the year.

[Jamie]

Thanks for the article... I loved your 2006 word of play. My word for this year is RISK. I have some big plans for 2007 that require me to take a chance to support my dreams.

So while RISKS can sometimes seem so dangerous, I need to remember that without them we wouldn't do anything exciting, now would we?

Thanks for the motivation Ali!

[Kristina]

Simplify is my word, Ali. Live simply. Simply live. :)

[Susan]

While PEACE is a word I am sure we all aspire to, the current situation in the Middle East a very large part of my life, I have chosen another word that speaks to me from deep in my heart on a very personal basis - GRACE. I encourage everyone to look for grace in every moment. I believe that the power of this word in particular can have a great impact in life. Have a blessed day. Susan

[Jennifer McNeely]

My word is Joy. We want to plan a vacation for our first anniversary and also have a baby this year, but if neither happens, then I don't want to be disappointed. Also to find joy in the little things. I already do that, but I will try harder this year.

[Kim Bolyard]

Ali,

I sent you an e-mail about your wonderful news letter and "one little word". I also posted on my blog about it and I borrowed you work "play" I have been using the word peace...all last year. You can read more about it on my blog. I am going to a crop tonight and I plan on working on a layout with me and my new work 'play' will share that on my blog tomorrow. Thanks so much
peace
Kim

[Kim Bolyard]

Typo...work....NOOOOO!!!! "word" and that word is "PLAY"

LOL

peace
Kim

[Lyn Meeker]

I'm still debating on that word .. is it GOAL (my goal is to tell everyone I know my early detection story and get everyone out to get their mammogram this year...) or maybe it is Detection or Mammogram or Inform or Convince or Spread (as in spread the story - but it could be spread/squish/hold your breath) ... it could even be Squish .. don't know yet .. but I know that last year I was given the opportunity to become an VERY EARLY DETECTION BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR .. (although I still have trouble with the survivor part .. after all it was only 21 days from detection to surgery removal and survivor status) ... I do know it is my destiny to convince as many people as I know (including on-line friends/acquaintances) to take the time for themselves and get their mammograms! .. Just for the reassurance that everything is fine and dandy!!!!!

If you can't do it for yourself .. do it for me!

[Jennifer Armentrout]

What popped into my mind is LESS

Less stuff
Less running around
Less food
Less waste
Less laziness

Great idea, Ali... as always.

[Carla]

Thank goodness your AEzine is back! It was just what I needed yesterday morning. I was checking my mail on my phone before I got out of bed and there it was. Just the inspiration I needed for the day. I read the whole thing in bed then got up and spent the rest of the day thinking about what my word would be. I decided on ATTITUDE. I want to focus on being aware of my ATTITUDE. I think that the way you choose to react to things is really important and having the right ATTITUDE in a particular situation is critical. Can't wait to create something with my word and post it on Monday. Have a great weekend.

[brandie]

this AEzine issue was amazing and so inspiring. i am deciding between a couple of words...maybe my word should be COMMIT :)
thanks for the thoughts and the inspiration, always.

[paige]

Ali, I start a big new chapter in my life Monday, as I start a new job. I am not sure that I will be able to post on Monday, so I blogged about my word today on my blog.

{grace}

http://littlegreendot.typepad.com/little_green_dot/2007/01/one_little_word.html

Thanks for all you do!

[sara]

hi ali.
what a cool way to start the year. i have a word -- carried over from christmastime...

obey.

while i know it's by no means a popular word, i'm choosing to obey this year. obey god's call in my life -- the everyday things i know god would want me to do. i'm going to be obedient by spending time with him daily, in how i treat my family, and in how i give back to the community. the list could go on...

enjoyed your post. :)

[Gayle]

Ali,
My word is HOPE.

I can only HOPE that my children do their best and are happy and healthy.
I can only HOPE that my husband and I continue to be blessed with this family.
I can only HOPE my son continues to improve in school. 1st grade is such a big change.
I can only HOPE that our entire family stays healthy and strong.

Thanks Ali!

[Amy Wuthrich-Reggio]

My word for this year is balance.

My plan for living this word: eating enough healthy food that I can occasionally eat french fries for dinnner, drinking enough water that the occasional margarita is ok, taking the stairs so I can occasionally skip the gym, sleeping enough so I can occasionally stay up all night, getting enough "me" time so I can freely give some of it away, saving enough so I can occasionally splurge, finding enough joy that I can occasionally be grumpy... I want to find balance so the little guilty pleasures are not guilty causing

[jessi (daisy J)]

my word is sweet simplicity...it's funny, almost like divine intervention, as your letter came after I had written a post in my blog about this!!! so here's is a link...
http://andsoonandson.blogspot.com/
thanks for the challenge ali!!!

[Shauna]

Grateful

An important reminder for me in the midst of the chaos that is life with 3 children under 5 at home, in dealing with the daily challenges that Asperger's brings to our home, in contemplating some big changes in the coming year... to be grateful for the many gifts that life & my family bring me, even when things are hard.

[Tammy M.]

I loved your AEzine this time...so inspiring. I'm still thinking of my "word" yet. My first thought is ORGANIZE cause after Christmas I must! Also CHANGE is a word I'm tossing around since my youngest will be starting school in the fall and I will be without children during the day for the first time in 7+ years. Then there is REINVENT since I feel like I've been trying to reinvent myself...who knows...maybe I'll make a calendar like yours on Cafe Press ;-) Thanks for being so inspiring!

[Leah]

RESOLVE.

[Kim Hacking]

I read all the comments. How cool are all those words? My word is DREAM. Want to create big things in my life this year. Cheers to you Ali and a Happy Peaceful 2007.

[Dorothy]

My word is Embrace. I posted a layout on my blog about it. Thanks for the incentive Ali!

[Muriel]

my word for the year is savor. Savor the experiences the moments. Savor everything that makes life great.

[Michelle]

Ali,
Thank you so much for the inspiration. And I love your work.

I'm torn between 2 words: SIMPLIFY or ACCEPTANCE. A big part of me wants to say SIMPLIFY. I want to clear out the clutter, run around less everyday and just make my life simplier. But since I run a business with DH, have a 5 year old and will be going back to school in 2 weeks maybe SIMPLIFY will be hard to achieve. So I then lean towards ACCEPTANCE. I need to accept my life the way it is and stop yearning and wanting something else. Hmmm, I guess I need to think about it a little more.

[Nicole McDonald]

I was trying to think of a profound word, an entirely provoking and evocative word.....and then it hit me......my word for 2007 is about as simple as they come: BE. Just BE. Be in the moment. Be aware. Be me. Often, as a busy mom, wife, professional, and artist, I get so trapped in the striving, the business, the achieving. I need to spend this year just contemplating, meditating, and becoming familiar and comfortable to just BE. Thanks for the inspiration. Posting of my page to come.....

Blessings,
Nicole

[Jennamarie]

I was sitting at the bus stop yesturday, for over a million hours, watching some magpies fly in and out of trees. What a life, to just be flying, and singing and gathering food. Then I wondered what my state of BEING is. What do I have to do to be me, where am I most natural? I was reminded back to your one word idea, and knew that BEING or TO BE is/are my word/s.
I love that nothing came to me suddenly but as a observed the world around me, it was shown.
Thanks for helping me keep my eyes open Ali.

[Leah R]

Ali, thanks so much for this...
My word for the year is YES. It's so easy for many to not live the life we imagine.. because it's too hard, too much work, too much effort. I often find myself saying, "nah, thanks anyways, maybe next time." It takes effort to say YES. It needs to be a conscious choice. Well this year, I'll say YES more. Yes to life experiences that are waiting for me. Thanks again for the inspiration.

Leah

[AngieK]

I think my word is going to be "embrace". This year it is my goal to embrace my family, my joys, my likes and dislikes, as well as myself.

[Michelle]

My word is "light."

Be a light for myself. Be a light for others. Experience new things. Don't take things so seriously.

Thanks!!!

[Courtney]

Connect. 2006 left me feeling disjointed from my friends and somewhat with my family because I was focusing so much on work. I've changed jobs and moved back to my hometown, so now I want to find a good group of friends again and if it's in the cards...a boyfriend.

[Kathi in San Diego]

Happy New Year Ali --
Thanks for the inspiration! My word this year is BELIEVE. In myself, in opportunity, in the power of the Universe, in people, and in God. My faith has been a bit shaky and it's time to get strong with it!!

[Randi]

Ali, thank you for your inspiration, through your ezine, your bong, your articles in magazines. When I got the newsletter yesterday, my word came to my instantly. It is LIVE.

Last year was the worst year of my life. My husband that I've been with since I was 17 told me he was having an affair and left our family. That event consumed me for the rest of the year. I turned 40, struggled with worsening depression, lack of energy, lost my interest in scrapbooking, etc.

This year, I want to LIVE. Get out in the world and experience new great things. Take scrapbooking classes. Travel. Be with friends and family. Enjoy the outdoors. Exercise. etc etc etc.

thank you again!

[Shannon]

My word is Shed. I did blog about it, but I am also planning on making a mini album of the goals I have achieved through the year that go along with my word. I have yet to work on the album but you can read my post at http://shannonsscraps.blogspot.com/
Thanks so much for a great challenge! I love the idea of a word for the year!

[Daphna]

Thanks Ali for inspiring us to think about a concept to focus on. My word is Balance, inspired by the word And, you can read about it on my blog. Peace to you Ali.

[Tess F.]

My word is CARE. This year I have resolved to take better care of myself, to make an effort to care for the earth by getting "green", and to embrace the fact that being a working mom is, in fact, caring for my family.

[Shobha]

Perspective is my word for the year. I am going to try and see things that really will matter in the future not just today/

Thanks for doing this.

[Aimee Porco]

Embrace....that is the word for 2007.

embrace what we have, embrace what you are, embrace others.

it has been said 128 times already but thank you for the constant inspiration.

you empower so many.

Aimee Porco

[Jennifer]

I've been trying to decide between a couple of words that immediately came to mind, but just scanned the blog and see some others that I can completely relate to. Decisions, decisions....Thanks for the inspiration. I definitely like the idea of focusing on this word and seeing how I can incorporate it into my life during the course of the year. You're so clever...

[Kristy]

This is such a great idea I think my word would be STOP xxx

[Leigh-Ann]

Grow.

[maryellencarlise]

My word--I think--is *LIVE*...

-to the fullest
-instead of just *existing*
-instead of just *coping*

or else *POSSIBILITIES*

-to really BE what I want to BE
-to change and grow
-to GIVE and to HELP and to SHARE!!

OOoooo, I just love the feelings BOTH of these words evoke...
hmmm...I'll have to decide huh?

Thanks for a MOST AWESOME idea!

Love ya' Ali!

Mary Ellen

[Kerry]

My word this year is going to be OPEN. Be open to change, open to new experiences and new people, open to what life has to offer me.

Reading all the comments has made me warm and fuzzy too. There are so many great words. I especially love embrace. Simply beautiful . . .

[leslie]

I had already done my Resolutions when I got your newsletter. And after reviewing them, I noticed a theme. ENRICH. I am going to take this year to improve and learn new talents and skills and enrich my life. Thanks for the inspiration!

[Nic]

my word is LIVE. my last year was very much about getting through things and healing from a surgery gone bad and corrected, and now from post viral fatique after getting the flu in November. and I just want to live, to not be trapped by how tired I am all the time - to actively live in spite of that, for my beautiful little girls, and my husband. I know I may not be as active as I once was, but I do not want to be as incapacitated as I feel sometimes -
I want to be an active participant in my life - I want to LIVE my life.

[Lori Kaye]

My word is TRUST. Not so much in others but in myself. I need to trust my decisions and not second guess them. Sometimes I wonder if I am making the right choices and decisions on raising my 16yr. old daughter, am I being too hard, too mean, too leniante, I need to trust in myself that I am making the right chioces and decisions.
I'm glad you put this out here for us!!!

[slruefer]

Serenity is my word for this year. After the year we had last year, that is what I want this year. Besides I like the way it sounds.

[Nora]

Ali, great idea, my word for the new year is BELIEVE...I believe I can do anything this year, get out of det., move to our own house,read my Bible every day, I believe I can do anything this year. I just need to put my mine to it and get busy. Looking forward to all you can teach me this new year.....

[DisneyCyndi]

My word for the year is Believe. I even blogged about it.

http://treasured-creations.blogspot.com/2007/01/believe-ali-edwards-challenged.html

[heather]

Fun challenge! My word is "balance." I can't wait to do a scrapbook page about it!

[Number Twelve]

My word for this year... DISCOVER. Thanks again for the creative inspiration. Great direction. Great concept.

[Lynn Furr]

What a cool challenge - really made me think.

I've decided my word for this year is COMPROMISE. I have a tendency to be so rigid and a perfectionist in some things and often want things done my way. But I'm realizing my way is not always the right way or the only way.I'm hoping to learn to let go a little, let others make some decisions, give in on some things, and just go with it. It will be okay!

[Stacy/CA]

I love this concept, love the idea of meditating each day on a way of life I want to follow. My word is EXPLORE. Myself, my family, my relationships, my career, my world.

[shannon]

breathe.
i tend to freak out when it comes to certain things. so i want to remind myself to breathe. relax. take things slowly.
thanks for the inspiration.

[Valerie]

I'm pretty sure my word is going to be

APPRECIATE.

It's the one I keep coming back to and is the one that will get me through the year's challenges and make the joy and blessings even sweeter.

Valerie, lovin' this

[Di Hickman]

after much searching and picking and discarding of words I decided on FOCUS. I have so much I want to do that I end up doing nothing as I don't know which to do first. I need to pick ONE thing each week and FOCUS on it!
thanks!

[Leah]

After lots of thought my word for 2007 is "restore". Thanks for the inspiration Ali!

[Elise Blaha]

STRENGTH.
thanks, ali.

[Shawnna / flipflopmom]

i absolutely LOVE the quote that Steph used on her blog by Christian B. Larson -- hope she doesn't mind if i borrow it -- :D
it seems to say EVERYTHING I couldn't find the words to say -- oh and my word is LIVE -- this year I want to REALLY LIVE for HIM (CHRIST) and for my family and even for ME some too:D

thanks so much for the Challenge

[Ronda Palazzari]

Oh man, just reading the comments, there are so many good words out there. So many words popped into my head: PATIENCE, BALANCE, STRENGTH, LET GO, CREATE, DREAM, etc. But I kept coming back to EXPLORE. Yep that about sums it up for me.
Awesome!

[Katie McLaren]

I've seen this word has already been chosen a few times, but its for me as well: TIME
I think having a child caused time speed up in my life! Time is getting away on me and I want to catch more of it, savour & cherish many more moments this year. Time is a gift!

[Kelly]

thanks for the inspiration! Here is my blog entry:

http://kellystroud.blogspot.com/

love 2007 (inspired by Ali Edwards' AEzine)
The new year is here... traditionally a time of fresh beginnings and resolutions for many. Even though I don't consider myself to be a "resolution person" (I have never been one to vow huge changes to begin at midnight on Dec 31st), I still can't help feeling the desire to give my current goals a boost each time January rolls around. This year, as always, I am anxious to continue working toward my many long term goals, but I also want to try something new- in 2007 I want to focus on one centralized theme in everything that I do and say. I want to tie all of the little moments of my daily life into one goal, one word. And that word is "love"- loving God, myself, my family, my friends, the people I will meet this year, books, crafts, travel...I want to focus my attention and efforts on the endless opportunities for love in my life. I want to learn how to love more, and love better. In a world where I divide my days into those that went well and those that did not, the days that leave me feeling dissatisfied always seem to come from a lack of love- either I spoke or acted without love towards another person or I am unhappy with the way I've been treated by someone else. By focusing on "love" I plan to create a happier world in 2007 for myself and the people near me.

[janine kaye]

i have nput a fair bit of thought into this...my word is..breathe..thanks for making me reflect on what i want for myself for the year!!

[sue]

Our computers at work were finally working today and I got my new AEzine! Woo Hoo! I've really missed it this past month.
Sue

[Barb]

I have to admit, I'm stealing your word "PLAY".

It truly is the right word for me at the right time.

All work and absolutely no PLAY is making me a very sad cranky girl.

[Lara Moss]

LOL I want PLAY too, but also thinking about JOY, will ponder this some more!

[emilyruth]

tuesday a dear friend & mentor whispered into my ear 'trust your instincts' & that is sticking with me...this year TRUST it is...

thanks, miss ali:)

[Sherry]

My word is MOVE! I have been a little disgruntled at work so, my word is to MOVE on, MOVE away, MOVE up or just to MOVE and exercise more. Maybe evn to MOVE my attitude and get over my issues at work. I will see where the word "Moves" me this year. Thanks for making me think here. Sherry

[Faye]

TRY popped into my head as soon asI read your Azine. TRY not to annoy to many people, TRY to live in harmony, TRY to exercise, TRY to continue with my diet, TRY to walk over the Auckland Harbour Bridge while taking part in the Auckland Half Marathon, TRY to create a garden, TRY to learn/do new things that I have been scared/afraid to do. Thanks Ali, I'm going to give it a TRY.

[Betsy Beers]

Ali, thanks so much for the inspiration you are to so many of us! My word for 2007 is FLOW. As in "go with the flow". I can be too controlling over many aspects of my life, and I need to just let go of that control. I want to react and respond better to daily situations. I need to be able to rearrange my schedule if need be. I need to just go with the flow and not get caught up in my own expectations! This is especially relevant to me this year because I have a toddler and am pregnant. I will most definitely go with the flow more when it comes to my kiddos!

[MandyK]

My word for 2007 is HAPPY.
I want to be HAPPY in 07.
I want to live HAPPY.
I want to love HAPPY.
I want to see HAPPY.
I to create HAPPY.
The word HAPPY is going to be put everywhere in my life this year including the car, bathroom, and wherever a sticky note will stick.
Thanks ALi for the inspiration!

[Kim]

This one was hard for me because there are two words that come to mind. My resolution for the new year is to have more PATIENCE and FAITH. I really struggle with these two things. I want to learn to just relax and remember that I am not the manager of the universe and I need to let things happen according to God's plan. I'm still trying to decide between the two words though.

[Angie]

Thank you Ali for the inspiration! This year there will be so many changes for us and so with a joyful, expectant and positive heart I choose for my word:

renaissance (with a small "r" LOL)

So here's to a renewal of life, vigor, interest, rebirth; revival, new hope, second spring, rejuvenation!

Peace to you!

Angie