Scrapbooking those stored photos!

When I have artists block(which these days is most of the time!!)I try to journal my son`s young life.Even before he was born I was trying to document every step through photos and journals hence scrapbooking and he loves to ask me "was I cute mama?"He knows I will obviously say yes.Then out comes "did you just want to eat me?"this means I have to chase him around pretending to eat him etc-he knows how to start a game.When I look back at them it evokes some great memories.Back in the day having a camera was a big deal,and developing them was an even bigger(expensive deal) and when your family could afford it the whole family was herded to the studios especially Ramogi Studios in Nairobi(memories anyone?) and this family photo would be framed in a hideous frame with no stories behind the photo (unless it was a wedding day)and no one would smiling!!
Now that comes to those childhood photos which you would just die when your mother showed off you less than fashionable style.The afro or big hair dos,polka dots ,fleyas,(bell bottoms!),unflattering mini skirt (mini cos you have had it for years and didn`t realize you are growing!!!)platform shoes(of the 70`s)with that multi coloured tight pant that flares some much it might as well be called a road sweeper.Come to think of it the present young fashionistas(and wannabe fashionistas) today may not see the joke but I guess you all know what I mean!!!!FYI those are the best ones as you grow older.Especially those black and white ones you hate so much.Go to all you close relatives and trade pictures if they won`t let them go so easily.What next!!
Scrapbooking I say!Get those photos out of those yellowing albums (acid on the papers!) and if you have wonderful parents like mine who allow you to see the family album in their presence (lest you try and sneak some!!I confess!)be sweet and beg for those photos scan them,and DO NOT FORGET to return them including a new copy thats not yellowed and crinkled!!Thank goodness for scanners we can all get a copy, as I am sure those old negatives are either lost or stuck together in a lumpy mass in the old suitcase!!
Take those photos put them on acid-free paper(if you cant get that there are sprays that neutralize the acid.I can get that info if you need it.Mount them and leave some space to write a little something about that day or the picture.There are so many themed papers for every occasion-or if you cant get them then ask me for suggestions.Get a nice scrapbook album.I will talk about that another time. WARNING:You may get addicted once you get started!
Got to go now and do a page or two with some new pictures I just got.