There’s no better time than now to reflect on the year you’ve had — so why not turn it into a fun activity you can start working on right now? 

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we invite you to take some time to be thankful for all the little things that have given you joy this year. Scroll through your camera roll, flip through your notebooks, and peek into that stash of trinkets, ticket stubs, stickers, and receipts you’ve collected over the last 12 months. It’s time to make a digital diary!

This is a digital scrapbooking activity that celebrates all forms of gratitude. We’re not trying to compile our most eventful or flashiest moments. We want this diary, in particular, to be a space that highlights everything we’re thankful for because of how positive and empowered those things make us feel. That could be people, places, memories, songs, items, you name it.

But remember, the year isn’t done!

It’s awesome if you already have an idea of everything you want to store in your digital diary, but don’t forget that we still have a month left in the year. Keep some space for the memories and moments you want to capture in your end-of-year diary. 

Now, here’s the fun part.

In this blog, we’re sharing two things:

First, a list of ideas of moments to keep an eye out for and take pictures of in December.

Second, there are a few templates you can duplicate and customize. They’re at the very end of this article!

Let’s get right into it.

A moment that makes you think “Wow, I think I’m going to remember this next year!” 

Capture a moment that feels special or impactful to you — whether it’s an event, a gathering with loved ones, a quiet moment by yourself, or a beautiful sight you’ve stumbled upon. For example, my most recent moment like this was an unexpected trip to a unique paper store with my best friend, who I hadn’t seen in months!

A song that you’re adding to your playlist

Take a screenshot of the song you’re playing on repeat or one that captures how you feel in December. Music is deeply tied to memories and emotions that give your year meaning. Adding it to your digital scrapbook will make it easy to envision what you probably felt as you were playing this. 

A place that makes you feel happy or inspired

Take a picture of any location that fills you with peace, joy, and motivation. Spaces that inspire us often become a big driver of our growth! Think of this picture as a visual reminder of where you were when you felt at your best.

A person that you’re having a great conversation with

Capture the moment with a candid picture of the person you’re talking or a screenshot of your messages and video calls. It’s important to celebrate the relationships around us and be grateful for everyday interactions that we sometimes take for granted, not just big milestones and events. 

An unexpected moment of joy

Little surprises often bring the most joy! Take a picture of something or someone that spontaneously made your day brighter. This could be something as simple as a good turn of events on what felt like a bad day or the kind of laughter that makes your eyes tear up and your belly ache. 

When someone close to you is being their most genuine self

Take a picture of a friend or family member in a candid, authentic moment. It could be a moment that happens while they’re hanging out with you, highlighting the image that pops into your head when you imagine this person being there for you. Or it could be a picture of them doing something they love, reminding you of the habits and interests of a person who’s important to you. 

A treat for yourself

Capture your favorite treat or gift to yourself. It could be food or drink, an item you bought to brighten your day, a game you’re playing, a book you’re reading, or even just a picture of your setup on a lazy day at home. Treating yourself is a form of self-care, and that’s definitely something worth being grateful for. 

A walk outdoors 

Take a picture of what you see during a walk outside. It could be something scenic that leaves you in awe, something that captures the familiarity of a place that gives you comfort, or just a picture of yourself to celebrate the act of getting some fresh air. Walks provide clarity and calm. This picture in your digital diary highlights the value of stepping outside and taking a moment for yourself.

Below are some great examples of digital diary templates you can customize and share on your social media platforms, online journals, or yearly planners!

How to use the templates:

1. Create a free Canva account if you don’t have one already.

2. Click on the image of the template you want to customize and you’ll be brought directly to a link in Canva.

3. Click “Customize this template.”

4. Start customizing!