A little over a year ago, I started writing in a 5 year journal. It includes 365 pages and each page is divided into five sections, one for each year. This past September, I finally made it to the one year mark and therefore started writing in the second section of each page. The coolest part has been being able to read about what was happening a year ago. As I write each new entry I am brought back to specific moments that have meaning for me. Memories of silly things my kids said or did, events we attended, friends we saw, and things I’m grateful for.
This small daily practice has been something that I’ve come to enjoy so much. Especially now that I can say to my husband, “hey, want to know what we were doing a year ago today?” It’s been a way of also looking back to see how far we’ve come in this past year. And even to be reminded of where I had hoped I would be in certain areas of my life.
I never did keep a baby book for either of my children. However, I see this practice as a way I can cherish their ever changing lives and capture a glimpse of where they are for a moment in time. It’s pretty neat how reading a memory can take you back so vividly to that time and remember those moments like it was yesterday.
If you’re someone who enjoys journaling, I would definitely recommend starting a 5 year journal. Even if you’re not the journaling type, it’s worth giving it a shot since it just involves you writing a few lines a day – even just one if you want- it’s up to you. Try it out and see what you think. You don’t need anything fancy, you can even get a nice journal at the dollar store and divide the pages into five. If you want something that’s ready to go and all set up for you, checkout Leuchtturm1917 Some Lines A Day The 5 Year Memory Book. I’ve really loved it!
Have a great day!
Jillian
