How can teachers extend learning and successfully connect with students, enabling them to work on art over the summer months? An activity developed by this author challenged students to craft a personal image based on items they received in the mail from him while he was visiting Japan over the summer break. The students were asked to create and maintain an "altered book"--a hardbound book that each student changes with recycled materials to create a personal journey that is sculptural in context. The lesson begins with students personalizing the cover of their book, then crafting a personal image based on the items they received from Japan. The final assignment of the project asked the students to create an "All About Me" entry--to artistically represent themselves while incorporating the existing book into their design. The use of words and journaling was encouraged for students who desired to add written text to their work. The author states that this type of summer assignment provided students with a continuous focus and a structure that motivated them to make art. This lesson addresses the national standard that requires students to select and use the qualities of structures and functions of art to improve communication of their ideas.