Yesterday, I shared the Mummy Diary that I created with photographs and diary entries back in 2009.

I also admitted that despite my good intentions, I had found it difficult to produce something of the same magnitude since becoming a mum of three!

So, with just a few days until the start of the new year, I am putting a plan in place to keep a record of next year – a manageable plan for even the busiest of Mums.

The Family Diary Project 2012

My idea is to write down (at least) one sentence for each of my children each day, one for my husband and also one for myself.  That’s a minimum of five sentences.

Now that has to be manageable right?

If you are thinking of joining in but doubt that you will be able to commit to everyday, commit yourself to a more manageable amount.  Perhaps you would be more comfortable with three or four times a week.  Perhaps once a week is more attainable.  It is entirely up to you.  Creating your treasured memories should be enjoyable, not a chore, so feel free to do what works for you.

Photographs

For each entry I also ‘intend’ to include at least one image from the day.  This could be anything: one of the children, a family member, pet, artwork, photo of a craft project or a meal, letter, postcard etc.  Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and mix it up.

Suggestion: Try to make sure that you include at least two images of yourself a month.  It is very easy, particularly when you are the chief family photo-taker, to end up without any images of yourself.  You are an important member of the family and your children will want to see you in there too in years to come!

Plan

Take some time now to plan and brainstorm the kinds of things you might like to include in your Diary.  This will benefit you in a number of ways – keeping your diary interesting and vibrant and can act as a kick-start on days when you lack motivation or that creative spark.

I have created these downloadables to help you.

Click here to download the January Calendar 2012

Click here to download the January Ideas for Family Diary Project 2012

Medium

Decide what form your diary will take.  Will you keep a scrapbook, a word document, or something else?

I will be entering mine daily directly into Blurb Booksmart that I downloaded, so that at the end of the year I can order softback copies of them for the children.

However you decide to record your entries and images try to keep it in a pertinent place, where you will see it on a regular basis and be reminded to do it, or pin your Calendar planner to the fridge.

Have fun and remember that taking twenty minutes out at the end of the day to reflect on the daywill not only benefit you on a day to day basis, but you will have something wonderful to show for it at the end of the year!

You can join me on my Facebook page, comment below or email me at [email protected] with any thoughts or suggestions you would like to share regarding the Family Diary Project 2012.