A Year in Review

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Today is my son’s 1st birthday so I thought I’d share with you a project I’m working on…

For each of my kids, I chose a unique stuffed toy for them to pose with in their monthly pictures. As parents, sometimes it’s difficult for us to see the all of the slight changes as our babies grow through their 1st year. For me, this was a good reminder to stop and take note of how my babies were changing month to month.

Here are the monthly pics for my daughter’s 1st year (Warning: I am not a great photographer):


We made an iPhoto book with the pictures. Each monthly pic started a new chapter filled with special events and pictures from that month.

For the second baby we chose a more interactive toy with sentimental value…live and learn:


(I’m honestly not sure what I’ll make for my son to chronicle his 1st year…but I’m open to suggestions…hint, hint)

Obviously, I still have a lot more work to do on the second album, but I wanted to show you how unique the pics could be with a different child and toy. (I’ll try to replace the second album when I have a more complete version)

My daughter, the laid back one, was happy to stretch out next to her inch worm. My son, the non-stop mover, needed a toy he could play with. It’s kinda neat to look back and see so much of their personality even in those early months.

Here are a few of my tips for surviving  and sticking with this year long project…
Chose a toy that is sentimental.
Try not to worry about the perfect pose.
Let your baby interact with the toy.
Set monthly reminders on your phone…the date will sneak up on you.
Don’t worry if you miss the exact day. Leave yourself a week window to get the pic when baby is “in the mood”.
Make the pics and end project individual for each child.
Have fun with it!!!

How did you chronicle your baby’s 1st year?

One thought on “A Year in Review

  1. Debbie

    Excellent post & tips. How fun to see the quick year-in-the-life through pictures. I LOVE the stuffed animal idea. You are right about seeing their personalities. Have a great next year.

    Reply

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