It’s that time of year isn’t it? I don’t know about you? But for us the traditions roll out in force at this time of year. We have so many wonderful family traditions, and Christmas would not be the same without any off them. Last year I made the mistake of missing 1 tradition. Just one tiny one, but to our parents it was hugeeeee.
Spoiler alert, Mum, Dad, Sheila and Peter please look away now! Do not read on you have been warned!
You see every Christmas since the boys were little I have made Snapfish calendars for our parents at Christmas. I have found it a great way to share those special family moments with our families. A way to reflect on a wonderful year. There is nothing more special than looking back on special moments, whether it be holidays, 1st’s or just the everyday ordinary moments.
A photograph can take you right back to a moment in time, a moment that you could well have forgotten had you not immortalised it. And I have done this every year, lovingly created a little journal of our year, one to smile at every day, every-time we pass it hanging on the wall. A tribute to last year and wonderful memories, yet the key to our future plans, plans that would all contribute to next years calendar.
Last year was different, added pressure at work, trying to keep up with family life, my blog and still keep the balance of getting a bit of me time (and might I just add, failing miserably) I just could not find the time to make our yearly calendar. To be honest, it only takes an hour with a little organisation and vision. But there’s the key having a vision, knowing which of your precious memories you want to immortalise and reflect on all year-long.
I know our parents were disappointed, I could tell. And my Dad may have mentioned the fact that they had to rush out and get a calendar in the new year, maybe once or twice! I knew it would not be a gift I would be missing of the list again, not because of pressure. But because I realised how much sharing these moments meant to them.
This year like every other year I struggled deciding which photos made the calendar, of course there are a few that always pop into your mind. Favourites like this one of the boys at Miami Airport.
But there are also the photos that show personality, really reflect a family member or moment.
The beauty of a calendar is that it is useful, a much-needed item, somewhere to scribble dates and plans. I also put birthdays on. All dates I know our parents won’t forget but another personal touch, one that makes my nieces and nephews smile when they look at it and have their own little spot on the calendar.
I love the fact that our mums have kept ever single calendar, like mini photo albums journaled into years. And for that reason, and that fact that I now know how treasured Snapfish calendars are. Its one of those traditions I will never miss again.
Oh I do the same and my mum would be gutted if she disn’t get hers either. I did miss one read and ended up doing it for her bday in January instead!
Yes its surprising how much they love them isn’t it? I must say I do love looking back on them x
Snap! Mums would be so upset if we didn’t do them! Great gift and lovely items to give as presents 🙂 You’ve reminded me to make ours soon!! xx
They are such lovely gifts aren’t they, and so simple to make. We have done them since Joe was born x
I absolutely adore making personalised gifts, and Snapfish are my favourite too. Love how your dad was disappointed not getting a calendar last year, at least you know it’s a pressie win #phew ??????
Yes exactly always a winner, I know I love making personalised gifts too they mean so much more xxx
We do the same for my parents and you have just reminded me it needs to be done! My sister usually sorts it but maybe it’s my turn!! Xx
Its so lovely to look back on isn’t it Julia x
I mean to do this every year for my Nana! I did one once after my wedding and filled it with some photos of us all on the big day and she still has it up! She keeps it on the one of me, her and my mum 🙂 I must try and find time to do one with the boys in this year, like you say it doesn’t take long once you make a start and they are such a thoughtful yet useful gift xx
Thanks Hayley, I know they are such a thoughtful gift, look so great, and great quality x
What a lovely idea 🙂
Thanks Katie x
Such a gorgeous idea. I may have to look into this. Thanks lovely. Xx
I used to create calendars every year but for some reason I have not done it for a few years. I used to love giving them to our parents, as they could see what the children had been up to during the year. I always used Snapfish as I thought the quality from them was fantastic. I really must try harder next year lol x
I know Tracey sometimes you just let things slip don’t you, it was only when I realised how much it meant to them that I knew I would not miss another year x