Resolution #3: Get the family involved!

With working full time and being a mom, it’s hard to keep up with my scrapbooks.  I try to make time on the weekends every now and then, but I still struggle to find the time I need.  My resolution for this year was to catch up with my scrapbooks (I am currently scrapbooking photos from 5 years ago), and spend more time staying caught up.  Then, one of our store team members, Renee, shared this idea that she’s started with her family:

Last year, on New Year’s Eve, my family of 5 was sitting at the dinner table talking about what a great year we had each had.  Each person wrote down 5-10 of their own personal favorite memories.  I said, “You know guys, I have not documented any of these 2009 memories (because I’ve been so busy).  Do you still like that we have family scrapbooks that document all of these events?”  The whole family, of course, said “YES!”  So I said, “I cannot do this alone.  I need your help.  How about if each of us scrapbook our own favorite memories?  I’ll bring out all of my cardstock and stickers, and I’ll be happy to print pictures from your favorite event, and let’s work on this tomorrow (New Year’s Day).”  So we spent the rest of the day printing pictures and getting the kitchen all set up with any and all supplies.  And New Year’s Day we each created our 5+ layouts, laughing and sharing the stories together.  What we gained was:

A) A 2010 completed scrapbook in one day!

B) A snapshot of each person’s handwriting and personal artistic style (especially the 12, 10 and 4-year old kids).

C) A new appreciation of hearing about events from everyone’s point of view, not just Mom’s!!

D) The best day ever spent together!  And, a new family tradition for New Year’s Day!

Thanks for the great idea Renee!  I really love the thought of spending time scrapbooking together, and seeing my family photos and memories from my kids’ point of view in addition to my own.  My new and improved resolution is to get the family involved to help me catch up.  Get your family in on the fun too – set a date today!