So often we make this memory keeping stuff way too complicated. I know because I do it myself. I love having something simple like a basic list of questions & answers to document specific things about life right now.
Cathy released this great layered template at Designer Digitals back in 2011: Story Guide Layered Template No.1 (one of the great things about digital is that the products you love don’t go away). I used it to document a bit of Simon’s story (see it here) in 2011 and then asked Simon this same series of questions this past week. His birthday week seemed like a great time to do it again.
I also added a Stacked Dates 2013 circle to the template.
Printed here at home on my Epson R2000.
And just like back in 2011, this one will go straight into Project Life as an insert for this week.
SUPPLIES | A CONVERSATION WITH SIMON 2013
Click on the images to link to the products.
Want to learn more about digital scrapbooking or working with digital elements in paper scrapbooking? Check out my free series: Getting Started With Digital Scrapbooking.
























Inspired by you I have done this with my 3 girls for the last 2 years on the same week. Will make a note to do it again this year. Love comparing the answers as they grow.
Oh this is so sweet, what a great idea Cathy had. For sure, I will do it when my daughter is older. Thanks a lot for the inspiration. Have a nice day Ali.
Oh I just love this Ali. This layed template of Cathy’s is great. I try to use it once a year for our son, and capture a wonderful snapshot of him and his personality. You are so right about those simple, repeating elements. They are the best.
I did this a few years ago too. Love the idea of repeating it.
I love this! I’m guessing Simon’s least favorite food is anything italian (no spaghetti or ravioli)! He’s too cute!
LOVVVVVE this, and your heart had to take a leap that you ARE the coolest AND the best friend!!!!!!!! Lucky little man, and of course luckiest Mom in the world!!! Thanks for making my day!
So awesome! I really should do this with my girl as well. And how cool is it that The Goonies is his favourite movie?!
Love those answers! I also did one way-back inspired by you. Think I’ll also do another post-Birthday one for my son. Thanks Ali!
I love the answer to “3 words that discribe me” is simply himself.
I love love this idea with the questions…Simon is so lucky to have such a wonderful mother!
So cute! Moms are the best best friend
I love his answer to the 3 words that best describe him.
His best friend. Heart flutter!
I am melting…I love that you are his best friend. I am downloading these digitals right now and adding them to my PL album. Can’t wait to see the answers my kids come up with.
Absolutely wonderful. Simon is so precious.
You’re his best friend, love that so much.
I absolutely love this idea. I will do it with my daughter after school today. She is 10. Ali, you are the most inspirational person. Thank you for inspiring me to climb outside my box. I am ordering the epson printer that you are currently using. Would it still be your favorite to buy right now?
Love this template from Cathy Zielske, I too own it and first used it in 2011. Also plan to use it again this year to see how my kids’ answers have changed. Love your great and inspirational website! Your posts are always filled with creativity and more importantly, they always ring of authenticity and honesty no matter the topic. Keep it coming! Have a great day.
Love this. Just a great way to get something done & recorded. Need to remember to keep it simple as well! Thanks.
I just filmed my son’s 8th birthday interview last night (on his birthday). We do it every year. You’ve reminded me to make it into a layout. And I’ll have to add some of those questions to our list for next time. Some very cute ones.
I just love this! Definitely will be adding this to my PL this year!
Aren’t the immediate real answers from kids the best? I bet he would make an awesome Lego inventor of some cool kits that allow for lots of imagination and creativity. If he ever draws or writes about the Land of Oo and that made-up land, maybe he could be persuaded to share. You and your family are an inspiration to all of us to let our kids be who they are and amazing things come forth. Thanks for sharing.
Love this! My 17year old son was just looking at an “All About Alex at 3″ layout the other day. Soooo much fun to see what were his favs and the funny things he said. Love,Love,Love these layouts because the truly capture a moment in time! Thanks for the reminder to do them. I wonder at what age I should stop. lol!
I love this idea! I am going to lift it!
He can’t be any sweeter!
Love his answers!!
His answers?!! Seriously awesome sauce!!
TFS.
Take care you,
Suz
This is such an awesome snapshot of Simon right now! I think it’s pretty cool looking at the differences between the years… He has some great answers!!
I love this … and ADORE the 3 words he used to describe himself.
I love this. Personally, i would add the question: How old are you? to this; i hate having to do “age math” when I look at my layouts.
I just had to go back and compare his answers to last year. Some things are the same, but you can see him growing up.
Good taste Simon, my favorite food is pizza too
I love his name for the three words that describe him.
The kid knows who he is.
Absolutely love that idea!!!
What a great memory.
This made me teary. My youngest son is dyslexic and is 16. If you ask him who his best friend is he will always answer me(mom). I think because they know we have been and will continue to always be there for them. We have witnessed their struggles and triumphs in life. They don’t have to wear a mask in our presence, they know they are loved unconditionally, and therefore there is a level of comfort, acceptance, and peace in our presence. Love, love my boy. I have two older children that are wonderful, but I truly believe my youngest child has provided my greatest learning experiences in life.
All the best to you and Simon.