Slow Down and Touch the Paper

In this hectic world we live in today, it seems at times that everything is rush, rush — hurry, hurry — run, run. All of the hi-tech gadgetry that has invaded our lives was supposed to make things easier, but now, it appears to be the main culprit in making our lives feel so hurried. Why is this? I don’t know! I’m stumped. I was also stumped as to what section to put this article under, Inspiration or Play – they both are intertwined in many ways. Aha! It is clearly a form of creative play.

But I do have a suggestion for slowing the pace down. How about scrapbook journaling? Mind you, it can be addicting, and if you have those perfectionistic tendencies, it can cause you to procrastinate (wanting things to be just so.)

But if you’re willing to let go and see where creativity will take you — your time will be well rewarded. Working with the hand/mind connection to get you into the flow — where just touching and cutting the paper can be a soothing thing.

Get the kids to slow down and be involved if you can, too. The memories you create will be well worth the effort. However, it’s easy to stockpile paper and stickers without knowing their purpose. I’m looking for a savvier way of doing this myself. One thing I know is that, again, the “KISS” approach works here — Keep it Sweet & Simple! Simple is to savvy — as bread is to butter — and milk is to cookies.

To get great ideas and helpful tips on scrapbooking, here are some starters below, that is if you don’t already know about the in’s and out’s of this fun craft:

Soothing but Addicting

• You Know You’re Addicted to Scrapbooking When…, scrapbooking.about.com
• Scrapbooking For Men, www.scrapscene.com
• How to Make a Scrapbook Journal, Suite101.com