Have you considered how to start scrapbooking? No? There's never been a better time you know. You can find supplies almost everywhere you look from specialty stores to Wal-mart and beyond. You've probably noticed them in passing - scrapbook papers and cards in every conceivable size, color and pattern, kits, stickers and what they call 'embellishments' - little things that add interest or sparkle to your project.

I'd heard about scrapbooking for ages before I did anything about it. I'd even made some as a child, although none as fancy as those around today. And judging by the stories I hear about what happens when you get hooked, it's maybe just as well. What am I talking about? Neglect of house, husband and family - but maybe I exaggerate - a little (lots of laughs!)

I'm just like everyone else. The minute my first child was born I knew she was the most beautiful child who ever existed. Everything she did, she did sooner and better than anyone who had gone before - you thought that was your child? No sorry it was mine! (Tongue-in-cheek and grins!) The camera became permanently attached to my hand as I recorded her every move. I frequently heard, "Are you keeping a diary of when she does things?" A diary? Don't be silly, I'll never forget a thing she does! Two sons, and many years later I hear myself say those same words to other unsuspecting new moms, and I say it again here in case that is you write down the story of those first steps, that cute word he had before he could say the proper one, that funny story she told you. Do it WHEN IT HAPPENS for life encroaches all too quickly and robs us of many memories.

Older, Wiser and more Organized?

OK ... I'm older and wiser now - and have more time on my hands, so maybe I'll get around to actually organizing the photographs even if I can't remember the exact dates and the whole story behind each photo. And that's where scrap booking comes in.

Scrapbooking could be said to be capturing the 'who, what, why, when and where' of life. Scrapbook supplies company, Making Memories (makingmemories.com) says that to reminisce, record and relish are the most powerful motivators when it comes to scrap booking. Because relationships, thoughts and feelings are so close to the female heart the world over, scrap booking has become the biggest activity in the craft and hobby industry.

What should I scrapbook?

Thinking about the purpose of your ]scrapbook will help you identify what to put in it. For example do you want to document one child's life - baby to graduation, wedding and beyond? Or your family life - doing things together or family vacations?

A scrapbook can cover a short period: hours of a special birthday; days of a vacation; weeks of a school year; or a lifetime, as in a heritage album of your parents or grandparents. The decision is yours and your decision will define your scrapbook.

Your purpose will also determine the scrap booking products you may wish to use. Consider whether you want to make your own from scratch or buy ready to use scrap booking supplies. As a beginner I'd suggest looking around for free scrapbook layout advice and buy some of the items suggested to get you started as these are all coordinated to work together. I still make the mistake of buying things that catch my eye without thinking far enough in advance about where and with what I'll use them. As a result I have many scrap booking stickers papers, brads, ribbons, flowers and other embellishments I'm still waiting to find the right colors to match with them!

The internet is a great resource for scrapbookers. Many online shops also show you how to do things. Take a look at paperwishes.com for example. Scrapbook.com even has a university!

Go on, start scrapbooking today - join one of the largest, friendliest hobby groups around.