When Baby G was born I had the best intentions of keeping her baby book updated with milestones, dates and photos. Because this is real life it has been much harder to keep up with that originally planned. As we prep for Baby #2’s arrival, I’ve started looking into some alternatives to a traditional baby book that will be easier to stay on top of. Here are some great options I’ve found!

• Baby Keepsake Box: This a great option to have on hand to toss mementos in over the years. We have one for Baby G with her hospital bracelet, baby booties, first haircut picture, etc. Unlike a traditional baby book, this is a great way to store some larger items.

• Blog/ Google Doc: The next two options are completely free and can be added to from anywhere. The first option is a google doc or even a private blog. You can open these from your phone or desktop at any time that is convenient for you and add thoughts, feelings, updates, etc. This doesn’t provide the structure a traditional baby book does, but allows for lots of creativity and would be great for you kids to read through down the road. Think of it like a digital journal through motherhood.
• Email Account: Credit for this idea goes entirely to my husband. He opened an email account for our child when she was born and will periodically email her. Down the road (maybe 18th birthday?) he will give her the log in info and she’ll be able to go and read through the emails. He doesn’t let me know every time he emails, but has mentioned writing emails on events like 1st birthday, Valentine’s day, etc. HOW SWEET.
• Photo Album and Instant Camera: Part of my problem with keeping our current baby book updated is remembering to order printed photos. It just takes so long to get them and by the time they show up my motivation is gone. This solution solves that problem! Pick up an instant polaroid camera and an inexpensive photo album or journal. This way you can snap pictures in the moment, pop them onto a page with some tape, make a comment or write the date and move on. So simple!

• Milestone File Box: This option is perfect for my Type A moms. Your file box can be customized with different folders such as infant, toddler, PreK, etc. or you can create folders for artwork, school pictures, awards and so on. The possibilities are endless.

How do you document or save important items or milestones for your kids? Let us know in the comments below!