Celebrating You!

Walt Whitman once said, “I celebrate myself, and sing myself.” Such a simple thought and, yet, it is all together entirely complex and important. Many times we fail to celebrate ourselves. I wonder why. Are we afraid of seeming arrogant or just uncomfortable with recognizing our strengths? This month, I challenge you to put on your best party outfit and sing your own praises. If you don’t congratulate yourself, who will?

I was a high school cheerleading coach for five, wonderful years. We had this little chant that we would say right after a game or competition. It went like this: “Raise your hands up in the air and pat yourself (pat, pat), right there.” We would all literally pat ourselves on the back. Even though it is a bit cheesy, the intention was heart felt. (And, when we weren’t all trying to act so cool, we actually enjoyed it!) Give yourself credit for what you have accomplished, who you are, where you have came from. I think the perfect way to pat yourself on the back is to create a scrapbook page all about you and what you are proud of about yourself. Yes, I said “you”, not your children, friends, or partner … yourself.

Look at the layouts below all created by women who are comfortable sharing their accomplishments. Take inspiration from their ability to put the positives down on paper! Notice what they are focusing on and how they use words to express themselves.

2010 by Kathleen Glossop

Supplies: Paper, Frame: My Mind's Eye, Alphabet: BasicGrey, Pink Paislee, Carolee's Creations, Button, Pin: My Little Bit of Whimsy, Chipboard: Crate Paper, Flowers: Sassafras Lass, Collections, Stickers: Sassafras Lass, Other: Brads.

Design Notes: I really don't like my own handwriting, but I do believe it's important to put a personal touch on journaling every now and then. Popping a few alpha stickers in the mix adds interest to handwritten journaling.

Journaling: Hey Me, You know you're doing alright, you've got a wonderful hubby whom you cherish and adore, a son who is the light of your life, a beautiful home and an exciting future. You look forward to each day, and to growing old with your family. You're happy, and it's the simple things you're looking for in life and in 2010.

Dear 15 by Cynthia Friese-Hassanein

Digital Supplies: Paper: Chelsea Parsons-Over the Fence, Font: Typewriter.

Design Notes: This is an informal letter to my 15 year old self, really acknowledging who I was at that time despite my insecurities and things I would have liked to have known. This is a hybrid scrapbooking design.

Journaling: Dear 15. I know things didn't turn out as planned. I know you really wanted to be a great actress. But, at 17, you took drama class and really couldn't memorize lines to save your life. Instead you started writing again. Your first love. Ah, the joy you get out of it and you do get over eventually caring what others think. I am not going to lie to you, things are not always easy. Things change. But, that trademark positivity gets you through a lot. Especially in the past year. Enjoy every moment you have with Crystal. This time together you will remember always. And be nice and patient with your Mom in the next couple of years. There will be a lot of changes.
Dear 15. Have confidence in yourself. You really are pretty and your spirit is so wise beyond your years. Keep being an individual. You are one cool girl. Come on you don't have a perm, when everyone else does. Never doubt your sense of style. Be unique, it's a beautiful thing. Just a few more random things. Don't worry that you went with the girls to the dance. Paul was a tool and you will fall in "love" so many times and then you will have one amazing man as your husband (yes, you will get married). Don't start smoking. It is not cool and stay in soccer. Make time to study and give Grandma a hug.

Making a Difference by Stacey Michaud

Supplies: Paper: October Afternoon, Cardstock: Bazzill Basics Paper, Alphabet: Jenni Bowlin Studio, Jillibean Soup, Chipboard: Bazzill Basics Paper, Cosmo Cricket, Buttons: BasicGrey, Other: paper clip.

Design Notes: I have a challenging, yet highly rewarding job. I have worked extremely hard to be a learner myself for the past 16 years. I think it is time to give myself some credit for a job well done! Writing about this topic also allows me to share a huge piece of who I am with others!

Journaling: For 16 years, I’ve had the honor of educating many special children. I do it with commitment, passion and love. It is important and worthwhile work.