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You are here: Home / Mindful Parenting / The Memory Journal Every Mom Should Have
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The Memory Journal Every Mom Should Have

Several years ago my sister-in-law gave us a Christmas gift that surprised me. It was a very nicely bound book that said “Guests & Friends” on the front. She said she thought we could keep in our guest room and every time she or anyone else visits they would write a note.

What a great and easy idea! The grandparents would love this.

This is something I would have never thought about buying or making for myself. To me, guest books were something you would see at weddings, special occasions, or bed and breakfasts. But when you think about it, what occasion is more special than the moments you spend at home with your closest family and friends?

We live far from our families. My in-laws live in Sweden, my siblings are spread across the country and my parents are in Texas. And because we have moved a few times ourselves, we have friends near and far as well. The guest book doesn’t just have to be for overnight guests, you can also use it when grandparents visit a newborn baby for the first time, for family gatherings, and birthday parties.

When my sister-in-law gave it to us I put it in our guest room and left it there. Occasionally I’d say– “Oh did you sign the guest book?” But for the most part, I put it there and forgot about it.

Now it is one of our more treasured possessions. Here’s why:

  • Our family members wrote about the first time they met our son

  • My sister announced her engagement to our family while staying with us

  • My son’s friends have drawn pictures in the book of them hugging

  • The special relationship between cousins is recorded through quotes and anecdotes

  • Friends and family share anecdotes and inside jokes that we laughed about

  • Grandparents who stay often, track our son’s development through their eyes

The other great thing? I don’t have to do anything. As the kin-keepers of the family, it often falls to moms to do all of the little things that build traditions and connects families. Here’s one thing that takes little effort from me, but creates a meaningful keepsake for years to come. That is why I say it is the memory journal every mom should have!

After guests have gone I will be changing sheets and cleaning up when I see the journal there and I will get all excited when I realize that we have a new entry. We open it and read it together as a family and relive the best moments of the trip. It’s fun for our visitors as well. They enjoy reading what others have written and even their past entries. It’s their memories as well.

So, I have to say a big thank you to my sister-law who gave us such a thoughtful gift all those years ago! She purchased it in Sweden, but below (affiliate links) are a few similar versions. The key is to find one that is unlined. You don’t want a guest register book, but rather a guest journal. You can also make one yourself, just be sure to put “Guests & Friends” on the front so your visitors will know it’s for them!

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Category: Mindful ParentingTag: family time, memories, mindful parenting

About Ashley Soderlund Ph.D.

Hi! As a mom and a child psychologist who spent over 15 years studying children's emotional development, I am excited to share science-backed tips and tools with you so that you can thrive as a parent.

I know that good parenting is a combination of instincts and learning. Sometimes new knowledge helps you trust your instincts, and sometimes it gives you a new perspective. As we grow and learn, so do our kids. Here, at nurture and thrive, you'll find the tools you need to nurture your children's hearts and minds.

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Comments

  1. Jennifer | The Deliberate Mom

    January 22, 2016 at 3:22 pm

    What a wonderful idea and so unique too!

    My best friend is getting married soon – I may use this as a wedding gift idea.

    So awesome.

    Thanks for sharing (and for linking up to the #SHINEbloghop).

    Wishing you a lovely day.
    xoxo

    • Ashley Soderlund Ph.D.

      January 22, 2016 at 3:31 pm

      Thank you Jennifer! What a great idea for a wedding present. I’m going to remember that myself. Could also be a fun baby shower present too!

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