The poem here is actually the last stanza of a much longer poem that has been published in several children's books. I've modified the poem here to make it more scrapbook friendly.

• I've shortened it. There's a lot that needs to fit onto a great scrapbook page. Less words leaves more space for pictures and decorations.
• I've changed the poem to take place at home, not at school. This will probably suit the pictures you already have better.
• I've made the poem more open to interpretation. My poems are often filled with details, which make a great poem for an illustrated children's book, but too often those same details clash with the pictures you have.

If you are intersested in reading the full version of this poem you can do so in several ways.

• Buy the book Moxie Day and Family
• Read The Artist at my other web site Funny Poems

While, of course, I'd love for you to buy a book, this site pays attention to your pocket book. Check out our Frugality Factor for Tested Tips .

So, here is the scrapbook version of the poem, The Artist. I hope it inspires a great scrapbook layout idea for you.

The Artist

My mother looks and throws a fit:

"Why can't you just be good?"

It's hard to be an artist

when you're so misunderstood.

by Robert Pottle

The Above Poem
Copyright ©  2006
by Robert Pottle
All Rights Reserved

While you are free to use this poem in  your personal scrapbook layout, please follow the following guidlines.

• You may not use this poem for commercial purposes with out the express written permision of Robert Pottle.
• You may not enter scrapbook pages with this poem into any contests without the express written permision of Robert Pottle. Just ask first, I'm sure we will work something out easily.
• If you are able, please share your layout on our message board . This is basically an I'll share if you share arrangement.
• Please spread the word about this web site, my poetry , and my author visits to schools , to anyone who might be interested.

Writing is not a hobby for me. I am a full-time poet. There are only a handful of people in the world who can say that. Let's face it, there are easier ways to earn a living. If you enjoy what I'm doing, please spread the word.