documenting moments, storing sentimental items and printing photos
One of my goals since becoming a mom is to create a memory book for Emmy that she can look back on and enjoy when she’s older. I also want to keep a handful of little treasures from her early days, without collecting too much clutter. There are a few things I am doing to keep up with this goal on a regular basis.
First, I bought a baby book with preset prompts and photo spaces. This has helped inspire the photos I take and the moments I write down. Some of the writing prompts have included meeting her for the first time, bringing her home and monthly lessons and surprises. The perfectionist in me was nervous to write in the book, but I had to let that go knowing that I personally love to read anything my mom has written. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be enjoyed.
Also, it’s not always easy to find time to write in the book, so I keep a running note in my phone of things I want to remember and date them. For example, I wrote that in week 14 she started rolling on her side a lot, started sleeping in her crib and loved the stuffed bunny we got her for her first Easter. When I have time to write in the book, these notes help so much.
Second, I created an album in my phone called “to print”. I keep my favorite photos of Emmy in this album and print them out every month or so. Printing photos is so important to me as everything is digital these days. There is something special about holding the photos in your hand, but if you wait too long, printing photos can be so overwhelming.
Finally, I have a designated place for Emmy’s keepsakes. My mom thrifted me a vintage Samsonite suitcase and painted it white, after I told her about an expensive brand that makes baby keepsake suitcases. This suitcase is where I keep things like hospital bracelets, a newspaper from the day she was born, her coming home outfit, etc. For me, this space has a limit, so I won’t keep too many things. It helps me decide what is most precious.
I look forward to giving Emmy her baby book and suitcase someday, but until then I am truly enjoying documenting and remembering this sweet first year with our girl. Please share any tips you have for keeping sentimental items and photos.
