Well it got my wheels turning. What if I did make her a scrapbook? And the idea was born, a scrapbook for each girl for Christmas. It's the gift that keeps on giving because I'm going to make a 2 page layout for each year, from now until they each turn 18. The problem is I'm a little slow in getting this started. Jesselyn is going to be 11, Macie 9, Amelia 7 and Emery 3. That's A LOT of layouts. But I really think it's worth it. I love pictures. I think most people, with a few exceptions, love pictures. And who wouldn't love to have a book written all about her life? Her biography told through pictures and journaling.
So I spent about 10 hours gathering photos and getting myself organized. I really only had to buy the book itself and pay for the prints. I have scrapbooking supplies coming out my ears, just ask Ian! Then I started counting how many layouts I have to make: 30 plus 4 front page designs. Yep- I'm crazy. I had to streamline the process to make it managable.
So each layout looks very similar to this one. I limited myself to 8 pictures per year- which was really hard. A lot happens in a year! I cut each picture into a 4 inch by 4 inch square so it didn't matter if they started out vertical or horizontal. I have had to modify a few photos and not cut them down that much. I just make sure the journaling doesn't get covered up, so far so good! Then I created a file in Microsoft Word that allows me to journal each picture and then print it on cardstock for the outside panels. Very quick and easy, once I figure out what I want to write.
I'm such a linear thinker that I label the journaling for each picture and then number the picture (even though the order is always the same!) Plus the numbers add a little flair! I've tried to embellish each page just a little bit, but not too much. I have 34 layouts remember. So far, each layout has taken me about an hour to complete. I've finished 12 of the 34 layouts. I'm going to do my best to finish this in time for Christmas, but I know that no matter how much I get complete the girls are going to LOVE them. I'm also excited to make them each a page every year so they can look back on the year and reflect on all that's happened.
If you're making Christmas gifts this year I'd love to hear about them. Unless you're making something for me, then don't tell me, I like surprises ;)
4 comments:
Very cool idea, Erin! I may steal it later on as I get more grandkids. I'm making four Christmas stockings for four of my kids for Christmas. I have cross-stitched a stocking for each kid/in-law kid/grandchild for my house and then I also cross-stich one for each of them for their homes. Good thing I still have my eyesight! ha ha
You are such a great Aunt! You should video record the girls opening their scrapbooks at Christmas time. I am so excited for them. AWESOME surprise!
Did you know Snapfish has 100 free prints right now? Just pay $5.89 shipping, so it's 6 cents each. Also, Walgreens has 9 cent prints with free shipping (can't pick them up at the store) through 10/16. I can get you the coupon codes if you need them.
Can you tell I've been getting caught up?!?!
I am going to copy you again!;) This is a great idea and my neice will love it! I am all for making gifts, I'm also making my girlfriends each an apron that will match their kitchens and their personality, should be fun!
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