For 2017, I am diving into memory planning. I was admiring all the gorgeous examples from creatives I follow, but was scared to start another project. But then, I joined the Awesome Ladies Project where rukristin encourages us to tell our own story. I realized that the Project Life scrapbooks are mainly focused on my children. I occasionally include stuff about me or what I'm doing, but it's rare. I decided to create a scrapbook to tell my own story, but didn't want to attempt another 12x12 PL album. I already do 5 (one family and one for each of the boys), I just could do another. Then I remembered all those who memory plan. Perfect! After Christmas, I bought a Big Happy Planner with my Michael's gift card.
I started to think about layouts and what to include. To make it easier to include items and photos focused on me, I started Project365 Me on Instagram. I try to take a photo each day that's focused on myself and not the kiddos. I also decided to include a photo of each book read and each craft or card made. On Tuesdays, I plan to do a Currently segment. Occasionally the kiddos will appear in the planner (how could they not?), but I want to focus on me.
In terms of supplies, I went and bought a few MAMBI sticker packs for the new Big Planners (Color Story and Memory Planner). I also raided my washi tape stash for coordinating colors and fun patterns. I decided to follow the color cues from the planner itself. I picked this one because it was full of bright colors but used as accents instead of covering the pages. Beyond that, I have a ton of crafting embellishments and stickers. I'm certain I'll be able to find sticker and decorations.
The last consideration I had was for the photos themselves. Some memory planners use a photo printer or a small printer like the Polaroid Zip or the HP Sprocket. While it would be convenient, I'm still torn on spending the money on one of those items. Instead, I discovered collage prints through Walgreens. You can add between 2 and 20 photos onto a single print (4x6, 5x7 or 8x10). I usually add 4 prints onto a 4x6 print. I have to cut them apart once I pick up the prints, but they are just about the perfect size for the planner. The 4x6 prints are $0.39 each, but I've been buying when all prints are on sale. It works for now. Maybe I'll get a printer at a later date, but for now the collage prints are my go-to.
