Monday, May 6, 2013

Project Life Summer Journals

My kids have kept a journal since they were 6 and 4 years old.  While they haven't always written in them steadily, each is full of life from their own perspective.  My oldest recently filled up his decorated composition notebook, so I began to think about what to use for his next book.  Both boys have grown up so much since we began this life project and I want to find something that inspires a continued interest in telling their stories. Not to mention that writing is a summer break requirement in our home and it is quickly approaching.  The big question, "how can I keep the educational aspect of it fun?"

If you scrapbook, you may have noticed a trend that has picked up tremendously.  It's called Project Life.  There are a number of versions of the idea but the most popular I've found is from Becky Higgins.  In fact, I use the digital version via AC Digitals.  I love it!  It's a simple way to scrapbook and makes memory keeping a little easier.  There are filler cards that give a touch of design, color, & embellishment to go along with your photos.  Journal cards are used to write about your week.  Since O has finished his notebook journal, I wondered if my boys would be interested in their own album.  Then Becky Higgins blogged about kids who were doing just that.  That's when I approached my kids with the idea.

Since then, we've actually checked out a few different brands with a similar vibe already.  My boys are drawn to Simple Stories SNAP! because of the bold colors and small size.  Project Life by Becky Higgins is coming to Hobby Lobby very soon (rumor is it'll be this week), so that's an option too.  I'm going to let them choose what they want because they'll be more excited about working on it.  Regardless of the brand or design they pick, the idea of Project Life is a winner in my book.  They will keep writing (yay!) and recording their memories in a fun way.  I plan to encourage the boys to make and design some of their own cards too.  We'll add art, notes from friends, photos by & of the boys, and whatever says "this is my life today" to the two little men in my life.  I can't wait to see what they come up with.