Grace & Salt ink

SIMPLE WAYS TO FILL YOUR DECEMBER PAGES WITH JOY

There’s something about December that invites us to slow down, if only for a moment, and notice… the light twinkling in the window, the laughter around the dinner table, and the quiet joy that comes from small, beautiful moments.

Memory keeping isn’t about perfectly curated pages or hours of spare time (who has that, especially in December?). It’s about preserving the feeling of this season – one journal entry, photograph, or pressed sprig of fir at a time.

I thought I would open up December, with a few gentle, creative ways to capture your festive Christmas memories – without adding more to your to-do list. I shall be creating a dedicated December 2025 insert to try some of these out in, which I shall share snippets of over on Instagram.

1. A MOMENT A DAY

Instead of trying to document everything, choose one small thing each day that brings you joy.
Write a line or two in your journal: the smell of cinnamon rolls, your child’s laughter, a favourite song playing while wrapping gifts.

You could even create a “December Gratitude” section – simple, short reflections that capture your heart in the moment.

2. COLLECT THE DETAILS

Slip keepsakes into your journal pockets – ticket stubs from a Christmas market, the tag from a beautifully wrapped gift, a piece of ribbon, or a handwritten note to name just a few ideas.

These tiny items, glued onto or tucked between pages, instantly bring memories to life. If you fancy, add a short caption beside each one to jog your memory, years down the line: “Our favourite hot chocolate stand,” or “Wrapping gifts late into the night.” 

3. CAPTURE WITH PHOTOS

Print a few mini photos from your phone at the end of each week. Stick them into your journal and write a few words beside them – no need for full stories. Your future self will love seeing real, imperfect snapshots that tell your December story as it truly was. (This is something I am a massive fan of personally, I’d be lost without my Canon Selfy Square QX10 if you don’t have a mini photo printer, I’d highly recommend asking Santa for one.) 

4. PRESS A LITTLE NATURE

A pressed sprig of eucalyptus, a fallen pine needle, or a small dried flower from your wreath, makes a lovely seasonal touch. These natural textures add warmth and make your journal smell faintly of winter. 

5. JOURNAL WHEN YOU CAN, NOT WHEN YOU “SHOULD”

Some days you’ll have time for washi tape, slowly hand lettering titles and doodles. Other days, you’ll scribble a few words between wrapping paper and mince pies, and that’s perfect.

Memory keeping is about being present, not perfect. Don’t miss the moment, because you’re too busy trying to write it down!

Even if all you write is “Today felt busy, but my heart is full,” you’re capturing something real.

6. END THE MONTH WITH GRATITUDE

On the last page of December, take five minutes to reflect.
What did this month teach you? What felt special? What do you want to carry forward into the new year?

You can open this up wider, it’s December after all – reflect on the whole year if you have time. This is what I like to do at Twixmas – that gap between Christmas and new year, reflect on the year that’s been and look forward to the new year ahead.

FINAL THOUGHT

This Christmas, give yourself the gift of noticing.
Keep your journal nearby, ready to gather the quiet, meaningful moments that make this season truly shine.

Even in the busiest days, there’s beauty waiting to be remembered.

FAQS:

Q1: How can I start a Christmas memory journal if I’m short on time?
Start small. Both physically, you could use a small pocket sized journal, but also… just one line a day or a single photo per week. The goal is to capture moments, not perfection.

Q2: What should I include in my Christmas journal?
Include words, photos, keepsakes (like tags or tickets), and natural items. Mix textures and memories for a heartfelt, handmade feel.

Q3: Do I need special supplies to memory keep?
Not at all. A simple notebook, a pen, and a bit of tape or glue are enough to begin.

Q4: How do I stay consistent through December?
Keep your journal visible – on your desk or beside your bed. Add quick notes whenever inspiration strikes.