It's Okay Not To Let Go

The obvious solution was to sell it.  ALL of it.  Every last piece. 

Every basket full of stamps, scissors, and ink hiding in the closets, every folder bursting at the seams with stickers and do-dads in my desk, and every beautiful sheet of hand selected 12x12 paper stacked up in the garage.

Every reminder of the free time I once had, every glimpse of the passion and love of paper that still resides inside me, but is no longer fed and nourished by quiet evenings with my craft.

There is no time these days.  My priorities have changed.  There are so many digital options that are quicker, easier, and cleaner.  I need the space for the growing collections of clothes, toys, art projects and other child related items that are taking over our house. 

But first... One Last Hurrah.  I had to finish Nathan's baby book.

I couldn't be one of those mothers who goes all out on her first child with handmade quilts, clothes, and scrapbooks, but leaves the second one with nothing other than hand me downs and a box full of unorganized photos. 

My cute little number two...

So, this week I picked up 9 months worth of photos from Target.  I got out my supplies.  I pulled out the book that I had purchased when I was pregnant with Nathan.  I started piecing it together.  And I re-lit the spark between me and my paper, the love affair that I pushed away so long ago. 

Lesson learned, Mama, even though you don't have the time you used to for "extras" like scrapbooking, don't give it up all together!  This week, with every page I put together, I grew more and more excited.  Looking at the photographs, telling Nathan's story, imagining him turning the pages of this book with his own children some day.  I knew I couldn't do it.  It all had to stay, happily stuffed in closets and drawers.  I may not have all the time in the world, but if I was able find time to do it today, then I can find time again tomorrow, or next week, or next year.  It doesn't have to be all or nothing.  When Nathan's album is done, I am going to stash my supplies back in the garage, closet, and desk drawers.  And they will be there, waiting for me again, whenever I am ready.  And it may be awhile, because I'm busy hanging with the three most awesome boys in the world... 

My Boys, on Father's Day. 

For the next week, we are on "Vacation".  Hubby's home for 10 days, and we have lots of family fun adventures planned, starting with Disneyland!  I'm going to try and take a break from my computer, and log off facebook mobile as well...  we'll see how long it lasts!  Thank you to my new followers, I will be visiting all of you when I get back!  


Love, 
Suzanne