Family Catch-All Keepsake Journal FRONT COVER

I can't wait to share with you my latest creation using the Paper Pumpkin 'In the Bag' kit. I liked the original idea of using them as gift bags but felt something greater was in store for them and so I created an unique Family Catch-All Keepsake Journal. For a while now I've been inspired to get a little messy and stretch the stamping boundaries by incorporating various mediums in a project- paint, recyclables, texture, etc. and I have been particularly inspired by artist Christy Tomilson. I normally like things nice and tidy so it was a refreshing break from my norm to layer My Paper Pumpkin stamps with various inks and embossing powders. It's a busy journal front but I love the layout, the many different embellishments and the pop of dsp colors.

To make this journal, I layered the bags in an accordion style and glued them together. I inserted some ribbons for added flair and stacked some heavy books on top while the glue dried (no special glue was used just some tube glue that I had around the house...). I'm able to open the bags wide enough to stuff pictures, bookmarks, artwork from my kids or any other random keepsakes that we discover. It's sturdy and the items won't fall out! It was a breeze to create and I'm glad I found a greater purpose for this month's kit. I'm working on designing the back of the journal so stay tuned...

I'm hanging out at the party over at My Pumpkin Challenge and linking up to the Circles & Bags challenge. It's weird getting this challenge entry in early for a change despite my busy life with my 3 kids! My 10 month little man is walking now so that's a whole new level of BUSY- eeks!!!!