SSReflections Chat Recap & VBT Update

Had a leisurely, intimate chat with the crew at SSReflections last night, in their YahooGroups chatroom.  The software gave several people fits, including their illustrious captain, but eventually we all made it in (I think).  As we were waiting for several people to find there way in, the atmosphere was mostly chatty, not many real "interview-y" questions asked, which is fine by me.  I like people to get a sense of personality in chats, of my sense of humor and quick responses -- as much of a "tireless promoter" as I am, it's still hard for me to plug ceaselessly.  I feel like people have seen my "what inspired you to write this" answers so often...but I guess they haven't if they keep asking the question!  ;)  Some of the different questions asked last night:

How is Book of US different from Book of ME?
At the risk of sounding basic, The Book of US focuses on relationships between more than one person, their interactions with each other; The Book of ME is about scrapbooking about just yourself, and your influences and reactions to the world.  The books both follow the same format: introduction to the chapter's topic, journaling prompts, lists of photos and memorabilia to include, quotes, and internet resources.  The Book of US encourages scrapbookers to explore and save what is unique and special about their most meaningful relationships. It's not just about romantic relationships -- think about friendships, family, groups, work teams and communities, too.  It gives tips on including those special nuances of relationships that make relationships tick, such as their history, special jokes or language, celebrations, gifts or family ties.

Where can I find the book?
You should be able to find all three books at the library.  You can also find them at Amazon, B&N, Borders, Michael's, and local scrapbooking stores.  You can get signed copies from One Scrappy Store (my website -- a lot of people don't know that I "am" One Scrappy Site.)

Do you journal on the computer a lot?
Being the font fiend that I am, you might be surprised that I most often handwrite my journaling.  This is for two reasons.  First, it's important to include your handwriting in your albums, because it's a part of who you are, and will help people remember that aspect of you.  Plus, the people who love you don't view your handwriting as critically as you do.  Second, it's takes forethought and planning to include computer journaling on a layout -- time to compose and print it out before heading out to a crop, time I don't often take.  Not to mention all the time it takes just for me to choose a font!  It takes me longer to choose a font than to choose the paper and embellishments!  ;)

Today's stop is Scrapbooking.About.com.  Rebecca has posted an interview she did with me, and a layout challenge with me.  (Check out the free wordart at that second link!)  Rebecca is actually hosting a contest based on the challenge -- she posted about it in the About.com Forums (you may have to sign in before being able to read the post).

Tomorrow's stop is ScrapsAhoy, where I'm doing at chat at 8pm Central/9pm Eastern.  I'll be giving a layout challenge (for prizes!), and a digital freebie.  Please join me!