The Artful Parent Interviews SouleMama
For you, dear readers (and, I have to say, for myself, too), I interviewed Amanda Blake Soule, author of the soon-to-come-out book, The Creative Family: How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections. Many of you know her as SouleMama.
(Note: readers have a chance to win a copy of Amanda’s book at the end of the interview.)
JEAN: Hi Amanda, Thanks so much for agreeing to an interview on The Artful Parent. As you know, I just finished reading an advance copy of your wonderful book, The Creative Family: How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections.
I can’t tell you how inspiring I found the book! I started making a list of all the projects I wanted to try and all the activities and traditions I wanted to start doing in my own family, and realized I was writing EVERYTHING down. So I know that I’ll be refering back to your book again and again! Although I want to ask you about everything, this blog is mostly about art and children, so I’ll try to keep my questions focused on those subjects…
So, first of all, can you tell us a little about your Family Drawing Time and how you fit that into your life?
AMANDA: Sure! Family Drawing Time is a frequent occurence during the winter months in particular. It’s a designated time for quiet drawing. I lay a few books of inspiration (nature field guides are always a favorite) in the center of the table, and sometimes a bowl of bits of nature (pinecones, acorns, leaves, etc). Everyone brings their special drawing book and chosen pencils and we have a session of drawing together. Everyone is working on his or her own separate project, but we’re gathered together. There is a lot more information in the book about how to make Family Drawing Time a success. The key, of course, is to keep it loose and flexible, and if it isn’t working, try something different. I would never want ‘art’ to be something forced for my little ones. It’s purely about fun, and trying to create in a different environment than the wild, messy, and totally ‘free’ creating that takes place the rest of the time.
JEAN: In your book you talk about how you turn your dining room into your art space. Will you describe your art space for us?
AMANDA: Well, it’s more that it doubles as our art space. Like most families, I’m sure, our dining room table is where much more than eating happens - it’s also where many of our art and craft projects take place throughout our day. We have an art cabinet in this room - which is really just an old pantry with lots of shelves and doors. A hutch or credenza would work well too. The doors are essential - so when they’re open, we have full view and access to all the materials we need, but when they’re closed - it doesn’t feel like we’re eating in an art studio. Inside the shelves are lots of tins and canisters containing all of our materials, with a sticker label on each telling us what’s inside. Though I hope that someday soon we’ll have a separate space for art as a family, I do love that right now all of the ‘creating’ that we do together happens in the same space where we gather and nourish our bodies with food as well. So much ‘living’ happens in that room - it feels like the very pulse of our home.
JEAN: What are some of your family’s favorite art activities?
AMANDA: Our favorite activities are probably those that are inspired by nature. So much of our inspiration and fodder for creativity seems to come from the natural world.
So, for example, we go for a walk in the woods nearly every day. Or we visit a beach or a favorite trail. Upon returning home, some form or art or another usually happens. Be it drawing, painting, crafting, collaging, bookmaking or clay. The actual medium changes often. But the constant is the shared experience of nature, followed by the translation into ‘art’ or ‘creative play’ in all it’s different forms - different from child to child and different from day to day.
JEAN: How about favorite art materials?
AMANDA: Colored pencils and paper are probably the most commonly used in the day-to-day. I love the Lyra Ferby pencils for little hands, and then the regular size Lyra colored pencils once they reach four or five years old. We also do a lot of really simple book making (I’ve written about that here if your readers are interested), so books are a commonly reached for material.
And then there’s string, tape and cardboard - the three things I can never seem to keep enough of around. And then there are the tools - good scissors, of course, and staplers and pencil sharpeners. I haven’t met a child who doesn’t love a stapler and an electric pencil sharpener!
JEAN: I think many of us are interested in finding inexpensive art materials and in recycling/repurposing art materials. Can you talk about finding art materials at thrift stores and other places on the cheap?
AMANDA: I don’t think children need a huge supply of art materials at the ready all the time. Keep it simple, stick to the basics, and get quality materials for the things you choose to buy. Their imaginations need room and freedom to create - not a whole plethora of materials that can be overwhelming and challenging to use. Given the opportunity and sometimes a little guidance, they’ll find everyday materials to use in their creations. I cannot count the number of times my children head to the recyling bin looking for ’something’, and return with a cereal box that becomes a barn; or an egg crate that becomes a plane. Keep your eye out for things you might otherwise throw away from your own projects as well - fabric scraps, yarn, paper - all of these in the right moment of a project can be useful. And while thrifting, I often pick up paper of all kinds - notebooks, stationary, folders etc.
JEAN: I loved your Art Night idea, especially mixing kids and adults and having an “anything goes” attitude. Any advice on having an Art Night for the first time?
AMANDA: Oh, Art Nights can be so much fun. Gathering together with many ages to just ‘create’ - with no expectation of the results. It always results in a wonderful time - and some really good art too! There are some ideas on getting started in the book, but I will add that the most important thing is to just keep it simple, especially as you’re starting out. Try it with just one other family, and slowly grow from there. And keep in mind the participants ages when setting up your Art Night - sometimes with the littlest ones among us, Art “Night” might be better suited for an “Art Morning” to avoid the challenging hours of dinner and bedtime.
JEAN: What are a few of your favorite books on kids’ art and creativity?
AMANDA: I have a lot of vintage and thrifted activity books from the 50’s and 60’s that we browse through for projects - I like them for the simplicity and use of materials that are often found at home. As for contemporary books, my favorites would be:
The Childrens Year: Seasonal Crafts and Clothes
All Year Round
Earthways: Simple Environmental Activities for Young Children
The American Girls Handy Book
The American Boys Handy Book
I love my Martha Stewart Kids magazine back issues (out of print now, but many of the projects are available on the website - www.marthastewart.com)
And I can’t wait for I Love Dirt - which will be released this spring, and includes 52 nature-inspired activities for families.
JEAN: How do you find the time to keep your blog updated, write books, do all the arts and crafts that you do, AND raise three children? I’m struggling with one kid, a blog, and a few articles!
AMANDA: There are so many ‘mundane’ moments in daily life when our bodies are busy, but our minds are not - washing dishes, doing laundry, cleaning, pushing the stroller, and on and on. Much of my writing is done in this time. I roll ideas and sentences around in my head and hope desperately that I’ll remember them later when I have a quiet moment to write them down. (I do carry a notebook with me everywhere - which is really helpful). All of that said, it’s definitely a little bit of a juggle, and I must admit to looking forward to a little break after this manuscript is done. Writing two books back to back was so rewarding, but not without it’s challenges!
JEAN: Is there anything else that you’d like to share with Artful Parent readers?
AMANDA: I think just as important as the making of art with children, is the second part of what we DO with the art of our children. The way we handle the results of our children’s creativity tells them so very much about what we value - how important it is to us, and how important they are to us. Display your childrens art, turn it into new creations (the book has some ideas on doing this), and talk about their art. Together with providing the materials and creating with them, they’ll be encouraged to develop their creative selves for years and years.
JEAN: Can you tell us what the new book you’re working on is about?
AMANDA: Sure! It’s full of sewing and craft projects for all aspects of the family home - both for parents to make with and for their children and themselves. There are elements of repurposing, community and history, and it’s full of lots and lots of photographs. I’m just wrapping up the manuscript now, and the book will be published in 2009.
JEAN: Thank you so much, Amanda, for sharing your creativity, insight, and warm family with us, through your interview, your book, and your SouleMama blog. You’re an inspiration to us all!
All photos are from SouleMama. Thank you, Amanda, for letting me use them.
If you would like to win a copy of Amanda’s book, The Creative Family, post a comment before Tuesday, February 12th, midnight, Eastern Standard Time. Winner will be chosen in a random drawing and notified via e-mail. The book will be officially released on April 1st, and the winner will receive the book at that time, or possibly shortly before, directly from the publisher.
Jennifer said,
February 7, 2008 @ 3:56 pm
Thank you so much for reviewing this book! I can’t wait to look for it and pick up ideas for projects to do with my two art-crazed girls (3 and 6 yrs). I agree that Lyra pencils are fabulous–we always stock up when we’re in Germany–and that an electric pencil sharpener is the bees knees!
Allison said,
February 7, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
Thanks for the great interview! I am looking forward to this book and I love reading Amanda’s blog (and yours, as well!). Thanks for all the inspiring ideas!
Camille Wilson said,
February 7, 2008 @ 4:07 pm
I’m inspired already!
Camille
Kate C. said,
February 7, 2008 @ 4:10 pm
Thanks for the interview! I’m looking forward to checking it out
Amy said,
February 7, 2008 @ 4:11 pm
Yes, thanks so much. I can’t wait to get my hands on this book.
Joyce said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:00 pm
Thanks for the interview. I’ve been looking forward to the book after reading soulemama blog for awhile.
Corina S said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:02 pm
What a great book! I would love a copy for our family. Thank you for the opportunity to win!
Bree said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:10 pm
Wow, I’d love a chance to win this book!
Maureen said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:21 pm
This looks like a very special book and something I could use (I’m lacking in the creativity department and definitely need to boost up that side of my parenting).
Danielle S said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:21 pm
Sounds fantastic! Enter me please!
dansan826 at yahoo.com
Tonya said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:32 pm
This sounds great. We are always looking for new ways to inspire imaginative play around our home.
Cheri said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:35 pm
i would love to have a more creative family
Peter said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:37 pm
I think my daughter would appreciate this, especially if we can get some hints on how to encourage her to take some pride in her drawings. I also appreciated the links. I had not heard of some of those books before and have added them to my wish list for the future.
Inna said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:39 pm
Thank you for the interview! Very inspiring.
Naomi said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:41 pm
Thanks for the inspiration- when Roo wakes up from her nap, I think we’ll have some family drawing time!
Julie M said,
February 7, 2008 @ 5:55 pm
Wow this looks like a great book! You have great ideas!
Mary said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:04 pm
Thanks for the entry!
Amy Webb said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:10 pm
Amanda Soule is one of my favorite bloggers. I’d love to win a copy of her book!
123pizza said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:13 pm
This book looks awesome.
artsweet said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:28 pm
What a neat book! Thanks for the giveaway.
tammy b said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:33 pm
wow, that looks fantastic! it would be a great addition to our household! i am glad i came across your blog the other day!
Mena said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:38 pm
Simple and important fun! That’s what I love! Thanks for the contest and interview! Just great!
melissa s. said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:41 pm
Thanks for highlighting one of my favorite and most inspiring moms in the blogsphere. I’m counting the days until Amanda’s book release (and would be ECSTATIC to win a copy!!)
Laurie said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:45 pm
what a great book idea. i’m going to have to look for this in april for sure!!
Jenna said,
February 7, 2008 @ 6:50 pm
Yes! This is just the kind of book I’ve been wanting. It sounds great.
Julie said,
February 7, 2008 @ 7:04 pm
count on us for coveting the book!
Lesha said,
February 7, 2008 @ 7:27 pm
Wonderful interview!
Stephanie said,
February 7, 2008 @ 7:39 pm
It looks like an inspiring book and the author is so pretty. When I first saw her photo, I thought she might be a teenager! But she really has three kids! Wow!
Cindi Hoppes said,
February 7, 2008 @ 7:54 pm
Hello, What an interesting interview! The book sound so inspirational and fun!
Please enter me in this drawing…..Cindi
lace said,
February 7, 2008 @ 7:57 pm
this looks like a wonderful book to have on hand. I would love to read this to bring more creativity to my house.
meg said,
February 7, 2008 @ 8:09 pm
I have this book on my Amazon wish list already….I’d love to win it! It looks positively wonderful. I’ve been reading her blog for a while and getting mucho inspiration for my family. ( meg.wilson@gmail.com )
Jenny said,
February 7, 2008 @ 8:16 pm
I would love this book. My husband and I have been married for about 1 1/2 years and have a 3 month old. This book would be perfect for starting traditions and fun ideas for our little family to do together.
angie g. said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:06 pm
the book looks great - please count me in!
molly said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:15 pm
Love her blog and will love this book too, I’m sure. Thanks for doing this interview!
Priscilla said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:20 pm
Great interview…your site is quickly becoming one of my favorites.
Dawn Alice Rogers said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:22 pm
Great interview. I would love to win this book, it looks fabulous!
Melissa said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:26 pm
This book sounds like a must for any family of preschoolers!
Patti said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:30 pm
Looks like another fabulous read. Thanks for profiling these!
Katie said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:45 pm
Sounds like a really great book!
Susan said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:49 pm
This looks like a great book. Thanks.
Heather R. said,
February 7, 2008 @ 9:58 pm
My mom gave me Sark’s, A Creative Companion for Christmas on year when I was younger…she was an artist and was attempting to get me to “loosen up a bit” and unleash my inner creativity…which I have but often the perfectionist in me gets in the way. This book would help me try to do the same for my LO that my mom wanted for me. Thanks for such an awesome giveway.
Jennifer said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:05 pm
I’ve been reading SouleMama for a while now, and I really want to read her book!
Rachel said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:15 pm
what a treat jean, thx for the interview!
jessica said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:18 pm
what a great way to liven up family time!
Samantha said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:21 pm
That looks like a really neat book. Great to find out about it!
Erin said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:28 pm
Great ideas - thanks!
April said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:41 pm
I need the inspiration, what a great book!
threesneakybugs said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:42 pm
Thank you.
Jill H. said,
February 7, 2008 @ 10:57 pm
Darn! Another book for the “must buy ASAP list…that is if I’ve not lucky enough to win it! (here’s hoping!)
Megan said,
February 7, 2008 @ 11:50 pm
How fun!! hope I can win
hil72 said,
February 8, 2008 @ 12:17 am
I love her blog and look forward to the book!
Heather said,
February 8, 2008 @ 12:21 am
What wonderful ideas! Thanks for the wonderful contest!
Dawn said,
February 8, 2008 @ 12:29 am
It looks like a great book. I would love it.
Becky said,
February 8, 2008 @ 1:52 am
I read her blog and would love to win a copy of her book!
catmom said,
February 8, 2008 @ 2:06 am
Sounds great!
amy said,
February 8, 2008 @ 2:10 am
I love family time. Can’t wait until this book is available!
Sarah said,
February 8, 2008 @ 3:57 am
Amazing person that Soulemama. She is such a huge source of inspiration for me in the home and in the classroom! I cannot wait to pick up a copy of her book but I would love to win one!
Jennie S. said,
February 8, 2008 @ 6:52 am
What a lovely, thoughtful interview w/one of my absolute favorite people!
And ooh, here’s to ALL OF US, fingers crossed, on winning the book!
Meg said,
February 8, 2008 @ 6:55 am
Thanks for the interview! Though my daughter is only 9 months, we are constantly looking for ways to be creative with her! Thanks for the inspiration!
Suzanna Dutton said,
February 8, 2008 @ 6:57 am
Great interview and I’m looking forward to reading more of your blog after the children are busy for the day! Please enter me in your drawing!!
Karen said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:00 am
We just started using art to help my 4-year-old process his feelings whenever he is angry. After a few weeks of heading to the easel instead of time outs, we’ve got an impressive gallery of art…and a much more peaceful home! Looking forward to reading more about how to incorporate art into our home!
Elaine Simpson said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:16 am
Wow, now I’m look forward even more to the book coming out, it sounds sooo interesting and already the interview has given me ideas so imagine what the book will do. I have been reading Amanda’s blog for over a year now and it is so inspirational and already I have included some of her ideas into our family life. Being in the UK I’m not sure when the book will be released over here, but is available for pre-order on Amazon UK so it has been sitting on my wish list since Amanda mentioned it on her blog. Thanks for the interview it was a joy to read!!
Christine said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:22 am
Totally inspiring! Can’t wait to get the book that comes out on my bday!!! Yay!
Tammie said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:22 am
Great interview. Amazing woman.
I have put a purchase request in at our library for this book.
Pleas count me in on the contest. I would love to own a personal copy!
~Tammie
Monica said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:26 am
What a great blog you have! I am trying to find more ways to incorporate creative expression into my daughter’s daily life (and mine) and Soulemama’s book sounds perfect!
Lisa said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:27 am
Thank you for the interview. I read Amanda’s blog for inspiration with my daughter. She (Amanda) amazes me with her talent everyday. Thanks for 2 great blogs.
Diana said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:30 am
I’ve been following the soulemama blog for a while and I am very keen on getting my hands on her book. In Italy (where I now live) it doesn’t seem all that important of creating with kids, or getting back to basics. Which is why I am all the more excited about doing some of her art ideas (and hopefully some of my own) with my own child. Thanks!!
Jennie said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:31 am
Yeah! I’ve been curious about this book - looks like a lot of fun! Please enter me in the drawing!
Qalballah said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:33 am
ME ME ME ME ME ME PICK ME ME ME ME
Sebrina said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:34 am
I cannot wait for this book!!!!!!! I love Amanda’s blog. She inspires me everyday!
TD wool design said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:36 am
my girls are teenagers now, but i have two lovely little nieces who would truly enjoy the ideas and projects. can’t wait for the book release! kudos!
kate said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:36 am
our family is quite excited about this book. thanks for the interview!
Ashley Poe said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:38 am
So excited for this book to come out!
Deb said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:38 am
I always find myself nodding when reading Amanda’s words, and her photographs give such a sense of emotion in layers. I am eagerly looking forward to her book release just days before my birthday…what could be a better gift?
Ami said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:43 am
Thank you for reviewing this book! I enjoy reading Soulemama daily and this book looks wonderful!
Momma Roar said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:47 am
Thank you for doing the book review. I’ve had my eye on this book for some time. My word for 2008 is *inspire* and Amanda’s blog has done so much of that for me already - I would love to have a copy of this book!
Thank you,
Leigh Ann
prairiepoppins said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:48 am
The more I read about this book, the more I realize what a perfect match it will be for us. I can’t wait for it to land on our doorstep someday soon.
Thanks for having her elaborate on the idea of family art time. We haven’t done that in our house in about a year, not as a whole family, and it would be perfect for combating the late-winter blues…
Gretchen said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:49 am
What a great interview! As an avid reader of Soulemama and a family who lives outside whenever possible I am looking forward to Amanda’s book! Thank you for the post.
mikemegan said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:50 am
I love Amanda’s blog. It has inspired me to get more creative with my own boys.
kara said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:52 am
This makes me so anxious to read this entire book!! I’m really looking forward to it! Any thing that brings creativity into the home is high on my priority list! Thanks.
Laurel Sauls said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:52 am
I would love to win this book. I am so inspired by Soulemama…her pictures of her home and family life encourage me to enjoy small moments with my children, and helped me make the decision to homeschool. I can’t wait to read her blog!
Lucia said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:53 am
Wonderful interview with one of my favorite bloggers! I am always inspired by my visits to SouleMama and can’t wait to get my hands on the new book (winning a copy would be even more exciting
I am also happy to discover this fabulous blog. I just scrolled down and saw your interview with Susan Striker…her book is a staple in our house and one that I frequently give as a gift to new parents and teachers. Can’t wait to explore your blog a little more for inspiration. Thank you!
Michelle said,
February 8, 2008 @ 7:53 am
Love the idea of family art time! We already do something similar, but usually it’s my husband and son who inspire each other although not in any regular or organized way. For some reason I’ve never thought about getting myself and my daughter involved at the same time although we both dearly love to draw and paint. What a wonderful idea, Amanda! Your ideas are simple but they feel very intuitive and authentic. You never cease to amaze me.
Jaime said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:01 am
Thanks for doing this interview! As someone who is going to be a mother for the first time this summer, I’m very excited to begin creative rituals with my own child. (I may need to wait a little bit, though. At least until he/she can sit upright!) Amanda Soule is a very strong inspiration to me.
Marissa said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:01 am
What a great interview! Can’t wait till we can read the book!
Jennifer said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:03 am
I don’t have children yet but I do have Amanda’s book on my amazon wish list. I love reading her blog and hope that I will be able to bring art into our lives in as naturally a way as she does.
Glaucia Burgi said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:05 am
I´m looking forward to this book. I´m a everyday reader of Amanda’s blog and I´m just waiting its release. It would be really wonderful having it as a gift!
Thank you
Gita said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:08 am
I’ve been reading Amanda’s blog for a couple of months now and not only has it been an affirmation for me in what I do with my son, but also an inspiration for me to take up a camera, a needle, a pencil, a sewing machine—and dig in. And now, I’ve discovered yours! I can’t wait to get reading…thank you!
Deardeedle said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:13 am
Oh — Amanda, how your family does inspire me! I can’t wait for more on your book in 2009 - congrats on finishing the first one though! I can’t wait to read it!
shannon said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:13 am
wow! so excited for this book!
Erin said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:14 am
Thanks for the interview and the chance to win this book!
dianne said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:14 am
so, so excited for this book! thanks for the great interview.
Kirsten said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:15 am
Thanks for this interview! I’m really looking forward to this book and using it to guide the creativity-focused moments of my (eventual) parenting!
Frances said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:16 am
Lovely interview
Thanks for sharing!
Missy K said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:17 am
Hi Jean– You have a wonderful blog. I got here via Rachel at Making Room for More. I would love to be entered to win a copy of this book. I’ve been a faithful SouleMama reader for sometime. Thanks!
Mary said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:17 am
Awesome interview!
I’m so excited about this book!
Mary
Katia Crabb said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:18 am
I am so excited about this book! I have been inspired by soulemama’s website and my boys have loved the projects. Especially, the little books that they create themselves. It is wonderful to see a mother find joy in her family and find beauty in life.
rosie said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:18 am
love the interview…i can’t wait until my kids are old enough to do these sorts of things!
Rachel said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:19 am
awesome. i am going to send this to my friends!
sarah said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:20 am
It was really inspiring to read this interview like it is to read Amanda’s blog. I have been enjoying her blog for about a year now and the glimpses into her world are so wonderful. I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of this book and share it with my amazing kids and hubby. I hope both books are amazingly successful. -sarah
cindy said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:21 am
It sounds like a really great book!
mamachelly said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:22 am
I love the family art time. We will start right away! I already have designs for my dining room…
Megan said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:23 am
I’m so curious about this book… Can’t wait til it comes out!
amy said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:24 am
can’t wait…
Julie said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:24 am
Great interview. I love SouleMama. Please enter me in the contest. Thanks so much.
Lucia Figueiredo said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:24 am
Amanda is really great and her blog a constant inspiration! Can’t wait for the book!
julia said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:25 am
Thanks for the interview. I just discovered your blog and have been looking forward to each new SouleMama post for a year now.
Emily said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:25 am
Oh, I’m really looking forward to the book! - both books!
Teri in CO said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:26 am
I am a faithful reader of Amanda’s blog and love her style! Thanks for sharing your chat with her! I’d love to be included in the drawing for her book!
Sue Krekorian said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:26 am
Such a relief that there is still so much enthusiasm for creative and “messy” play, cos too many children grow up being pressed to be clean and tidy and to sit in front of a screen. Children have such unfettered imaginations if encouraged and facilitated in their creativity, and given this will never know what boredom is. Can’t wait to see this book.
tonya lemos said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:27 am
Great Interview thanks! SouleMamas blog is always full of inspirtion!
beth said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:28 am
As a daily reader of the Soulemama blog (I feel like it really helps me set a tone for our day and reminds me of exactly what is important
), I really enjoyed this interview.
I’m not very skilled at sewing (at all!). I was wondering if you could tell me more about what level of sewing projects are involved (I can sew little stuff by hand but am not so great w/ a machine).
Thanks for providing ongoing inspiration. I’m glad to have found this blog.
Blayne said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:29 am
I enjoyed the interview - the book looks fascinating and inspiring indeed!
daniela said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:29 am
thank you for the interview. the last 30 days of amanda’s photos have just been one more inspiration! can’t wait to find the book on my own table.
Jess said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:31 am
Really looking forward to the release of Soulemama’s book. Sounds like some truly inspirational ideas!
brandy said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:31 am
Thanks so much for the interview! Love Soulemama!
Jessica said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:33 am
I am so looking forward to reading this book and doing everything in it. I am very inspired by the Amanda’s blog and photos.
Ashley Lee said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:33 am
What a great interview! Thanks Jean and Amanda for being willing share your wonderful ideas and thoughts. You greatly inspire me (and I know others, too)! I am very interested in The Creative Family and look forward to its publication.
Victoria said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:33 am
Well, Amanda’s book is on my wishlist, and now “I Love Dirt” is as well! Thanks for an inspiring interview.
Suzanne said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:34 am
Thanks for putting together the interview! Both your blogs are great and enter me, would love a copy
Ellie said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:35 am
I’m really looking forward to the realise of Amanda’s book - I’ve loved her blog for so long now! Thank you for this lovely interview. It’s got a good glimpse into the book, and for people who have never seen SouleMama blog, it would be an excellent introduction.
Oh, I’d so love to win this book - my list of people who I want to buy it for is very long!!
Beth said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:37 am
I can’t wait for this book to come out! Thanks for the interview, and for the chance to win a copy of the book!
Beth
Kathy said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:37 am
Great interview! I am looking forward to the book.
Rebecca said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:38 am
I just found soulemama’s blog a couple of weeks ago. Thanks for giving me a little more insight.
melissa said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:42 am
thank you for the interview…fun to get a bit more in on the “scoop”. i also am a fan of your blog - keep up the good work!
Sara said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:43 am
Great interview! I am looking forward to Amanda’s book. I think it will be a great resource for families looking to create art together.
Jessica said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:46 am
Would love to have the book
Michelle S said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:48 am
This is great! My mom used to do so many creative things with us when we were kids. I would love love love to give those same memories to my daughters!
sarah said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:49 am
Thanks so much for the excellent interview! Can’t wait to see the book!
Loretta said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:50 am
Thank you so much for the great interview, it has proved to be very informative and given me alot of insight. I am a regular reader of SouleMama, and am looking forward to her book. Thanks for contest to win a copy.
Julia said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:55 am
I love Amanda’s blog and am happy to have found yours through it! Can’t wait for the book to be released - Thanks!!
katie said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:56 am
I’ve been waiting and waiting for the book every since Soule Papa made his blog debut! As a family we are constantly inspired by the ideas, thoughts and pictures on Amanda’s blog. I am so grateful that she has opened her home for us to take a peek. Great interview!
Amanda said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:56 am
Soulemama is one of my daily morning reads. I would love to win a copy of this book!
Shannon said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:57 am
This book sounds really great and to have the author give a interview is even cooler. Thanks
palmersf@comcast.net
Renee said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:57 am
thanks for this interview with SouleMama!
Laurie L. said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:59 am
Life is inspiration, and having children in the mix just kicks up the volume. Amanda’s book will be a catalyst for many positive moments in a family’s day. Her book is on my list of “must haves”.
sarah jane said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:59 am
Can’t wait to read the book!
Lisa Z said,
February 8, 2008 @ 8:59 am
Of course I would love to win a copy of Amanda’s book! Thank you for posting this review and interview and thanks for the contest.
I’m glad to find your blog, too. I like the title, The Artful Parent. That’s something I’ve always strived for with my kids, too. Being artful, I mean. As a family.
Now that I’ve found you, I’ll check back when I have more time to read…
Thanks, Lisa
Kirsten said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:00 am
what a great interview with one of my favorite bloggers. more than once i’ve thought, “wow, i want to be her when i’m a mama…”
thanks!
Courtney said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:03 am
How can I possibly wait until April 1 to get my hands on this book?!?!
Thanks for doing the interview : )
Erin G said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:04 am
Great review! I can’t wait for the book to come out!
Tara said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:07 am
Thank you so much for interviewing Amanda! I adore her blog, and I’ve been waiting FOREVER for her book to come out.
Thanks again!!
walterandveronica said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:08 am
so curious about this book…
Rae said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:08 am
I CAN’T wait to read this book! I have been so inspired by Amanda and her blog! Thanks so much!!
Margarete said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:09 am
Thank you ladies for the lovely interview!
Amanda said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:11 am
I’m an avid reader of Amanda’s blog - and like Kirsten (above), I want to be her when I’m a mama, too! Thanks so much for posting this interview!
Maire said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:13 am
Lusting after this book, to win it would be great.
Diane said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:14 am
Nice interview! Pick me! Pick me! Please…
Inka said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:16 am
Thanks so much for this interview!
Jen said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:17 am
love her blog, and can’t wait for her book!!
Aylin said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:19 am
Thanks for the interview and the chance to win this book!
Mama Zen said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:19 am
This sounds like a must have book!
cs white said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:20 am
This looks like a great book - I’m always wracking my brain to come up with fun things to do.
Heather said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:21 am
So glad you took the time to do this and now we have the 2nd book to look forward to as well! Yeah!
willowluna said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:22 am
Thank you so much for this interview! Everytime there is a new review of the book I read it and get even more excited. I’m really looking forward to the release of the book to inspire more connections in our family.
Jenny Chang said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:24 am
Great interview! I love Amanda’s blog and can’t wait for her book to come out!
Sarah said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:24 am
I would love to win the book!
Joanne said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:28 am
I appreciate your review of the book, you are very well written. I love soule mama and she is the first blog I visit every day. To have this book would be an honor. I will definitly be buying one asap. Thanks
Olivia said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:33 am
Reading soulemama’s blog has made me even more eager to take a look at her book - I can’t wait to see it in hard copy!
Elissa said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:33 am
Thanks so much for the interview!
mandi said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:35 am
Please, pick me! I am so glad I found your site. I am a avid reader of Amanda’s blog and am new to the blogging world. I’ve been waiting not so patiently for the release of her book. Great interview. Thanks!
Jeana said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:37 am
This book is one more reason to look forward to Spring. Thanks for the interview!
Valerie dP said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:39 am
I so enjoy and take inspiration from the SouleMama website that I am truly looking forward to reading this book!
Tracey said,
February 8, 2008 @ 9:41 am
Sure looking forward to reading this book. And this is a new site to me - I’m glad I found it. Thanks!