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Finding The Time To Scrapbook
by Brandie Valenzuela
 You've organized the pictures, you've bought some acid-free paper and even some other goodies, now what? Well, as you know, the next step is to get your precious photos on that paper and into your album. No one will be able to enjoy the great moments you captured on film if you don't get started today!
But, no matter how convincing I am trying to sound, I know the reality is that sometimes it is just too hard to get going on our scrapbooking. I also know that the majority of scrapbookers are mothers, who must take care of the needs and wants of their children, and take care of a home. With cooking, cleaning, and in some cases, work outside of the home, how are you to find the time? In this article, I hope to help you find that time so that you can make progress in your scrapbooking.
To-Do Lists
"To-Do" Lists are one way to remind yourself to spend some time scrapping. With "To-Do" Lists, you develop a list everyday that has all the things you need or want to get done. I suggest starting off with the tasks that are most important. Chances are that with all the things you have to get done, scrapbooking won't be at the top of your list, but make sure you get it on there somewhere.
Also, be sure to be specific about what you want to get done with your scrapbooking that day. For example, if you have been working on a specific layout, make a goal to get it done. As you work down your list, cross off each task that you have completed. Imagine the satisfaction you will feel when you have completed your "have-to's" and now you get to spend sometime on your scrapbooks!
Same Time, Same Place
Some scrappers have found that they can get the most done with their scrapbooking when they scrap at the same time of day, everyday. This time is different for everyone. Mothers with small children in the home, may find using the time they have during naps or after the children are in bed for the night, the best time to scrap. Others who have children in school during the day will find that to be the best time. Consider the following when deciding when the best time is for you to schedule your scrapping time:
-- Can I scrap well with my children around?
-- When do I usually enjoy my leisure activities?
-- Do I scrap better during long scrapping sessions or small blocks of time?
Answering these questions will help you to determine when scrapping will best fit into your schedule.
Me, my TV, and my scrapbooks!
Another idea for finding the time is to plan your scrapbooking during a favorite television show. Let's say you love to watch the hour long drama "E.R." on NBC every week. Make a pact with yourself that you will not allow yourself to sit and watch "E.R." unless you are scrapping at the same time. What a great incentive! The best part is that if you do no other scrapping all week, you can rest assured you are making some progress because you will get something done during that favorite TV show!
Your Own Scrapbook Area
While a room designated to just scrapbook supplies is many scrapper's dream, I don't mean necessarily a whole room, but how about a table or desk, just for your scrapping? If possible, find an area of your home that you can set up and leave all your scrapbooking supplies at it. If you have a place that everything is ready at all the time, you are more likely to work on your scrapbooks. If you have to lug out all your pictures, albums and supplies everytime, you might find your scrapbooking hobby to be a hassle and that is definately not a good thing!
Scrapping Sessions
One of the best ways I have found to really get some scrapping done is to plan cropping sessions with a friend or two. When I make plans with someone else, I will follow through, but when it is only me, I tend to let other things get in the way. So, find a friend that enjoys scrapbooking -- all you really need it just one other person, but sometimes the more the merrier! Then schedule the best time for your scrapping -- once a week during lunch is something that I enjoy. You may even want to consider starting a scrapping group where you have set meeting times and days. I finished well over 100 pages in just one summer by planning crop get-togethers with a good friend.
Don't know anyone in your area that scrapbooks? If you have internet access (and chances are you do if you are reading this) then go to a scrapbooking bulletin board and post a message about where you live and what you are looking for. If you don't have internet access, visit your local scrapbook store and ask the clerk if they have classes or crops in their store - this is a great way to meet others.
(c)2000 Brandie Valenzuela
What's Related: Extra Photos? Here's What To Do! | Creating a Family Album | Scrappin’ on a Shoestring
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About the Author:
Brandie is a freelance writing mother of three children, who's favorite hobby is scrapbooking! She is also the editor of the HomeMade Living ezine, and other services for parents and stay-at-home mothers. Find out more by visiting Brandie's creations
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