Family Journals: Just 10 Minutes & 8 Steps to Capture the Craziness of Being a Dad! by Michael Kennedy

Fatherhood
6 years ago

Family Journals: Just 10 Minutes & 8 Steps to Capture the Craziness of Being a Dad!

Like many parents do, I started writing to capture the funnier workings and inner dialogues of raising kids. Now that we have three littles younger than 10 years old, I barely have time to scrub the toothpaste out of the sink or pick the LEGOs out of my toes before a day is done and night turns to day again. I started an easy, fun handwritten kids' journal to track the smaller moments and details of our family world. I can't do it every day, but it’s always fun when I do it first thing in the morning, when I have clearance. Here are my eight steps:

  • Don’t open laptop.
  • Breathe, smile.
  • Take a calming sip of beverage of choice.
  • Open journal.
  • Remember one story, a few lines or words about your family, either together or individual.
  • Spend less than 10 minutes.
  • Close book.
  • Get back to the 100 or so other things that will fill your day. 

For me, it’s a present moment of gratitude. Over the past year we've been able to look back on the fun, crazy and silly little things in our daily life that you often may forget. Your kids will always have something that came out of your head, through your writing and onto a page.

Then just match up the dates with the 22,933 photos in your phone and come full circle!

Take Great Videos of Kids: 7 Tips to Help Capture Natural Moments in Your Child's Life!

Fatherhood Ads Use "Dad Jokes" As Focus (Dare Ya Not to Laugh)

Parents: Don't Put Your Phone Away When You're With the Kids! Let Me Explain...

The Wave of Emotions of Being a Dad: Never Panic & Enjoy the Ride

Elisa Schmitz
How wonderful, Michael Kennedy ! I think it's great that you do this. I tried for a while to keep up with journaling and scrapbooking. As the kids grew older and got busier, I am sad to say I stopped. Keep it up and thanks for inspiring me!
Michael Kennedy
It's just part of my morning routine, but I totally respect busy :)
Mike Prochaska
Welcome to the tribe. Didn’t take that much arm twisting on twitter. Great first tip.
Ann Marie Patitucci
I love this. I really need to do this, Michael Kennedy ! Welcome to the tribe!
Michael Kennedy
Thanks Keith, like I said I can't do it every single day, but it accumulates so fast and it's so fun to look back on!

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Building a Closer Family: 5 Resolutions to Help Build Your Bond This New Year

Telling Your Story: The Gift of Storyworth & Passing Down Your Legacy

Screen-Free Week: How & Why to Have a Social-Media-Free Weekend

Applying for College: Relax, Mom & Dad, High School Senior Stress Will Pass