Simple daily journaling

A Simply Lovely Life

Tomorrow morning sometime, I'll be drawing one name from among all those that have expressed an interest in beginning a simple day-to-day journal.

Since many of you have asked for more specifics on how to begin, what to use, and what exactly to write down in a simple journal, I thought I'd just write out a quick note of supplies that I find useful and the basic things I typically end up jotting down in mine.

I basically use the same few things every day, which I keep handy in a basket.

Here's a photo of most of my stuff--minus the gazillion magazine cut-outs, photos, cards and ribbons that I use to decorate the pages. I use an 8x10 hardbound sketchbook, a few colored markers, sharp scissors, red and blue pens, large and small glue sticks, a razor knife/glass scraper--to cut along the edge of the magazine or book pages to remove them neatly, and folders--for storing all the magazine pictures, cards and photos that I have already cut out or would otherwise just be floating around getting lost or crumpled. I store everything all together in a basket.



And the basket. It's nice and sturdy--the kind typically used on shelving to keep things orderly, and everything stands up nicely in it.



I keep the markers and pens in a glass in the basket, and keep all the other loose items--glue sticks, post-it notes, scissors, scraper/razor knife, etc...in a gallon-sized ziplock baggie so they're not under and between everything. I keep the ribbons that aren't on spools in a separate zip-lock baggie.

Here's a photo of most of the supplies that I got for the dear one that the package will go to. This might give you a better idea of justt what might be useful to begin.



As for the things I write in mine, it varies. I think each person would have to get a feel for what's helpful for them in remembering throughout the day, as well as what they would like to look back and recall in the days ahead.

I tend to be a list person, and always have. And, I like to write down all the little things that I don't want to forget, would have to try and mentally hold onto, but appreciate being able to let go of and still refer to, indefinitely.

I keep a running list of people the Lord brings to my mind for me to pray for, projects I'm working on, lots of litle thing I need to do, errands to run, letters to write, encouragements to myself, scripture verses, poetry. I write out recipes, menus, ideas, desires of my heart, things my children do and say, shopping lists (though these would require an entire page spread to themselves if it were a grocery shopping list). The list iof things you could write is just endless, and can be whatever you like.

It's **very** simple. I can't stress this enough, There is no right or wrong way, and you will probably do it differently 2 weeks from the day you begin and differently 2 months from that, etc....

One thing I try to remember in something like this little journal, or sewing or cooking, or anything really is that what matters is that I enjoy the process, and it doesn't have to be perfect, or even please anyone else but me. Even if you write very little, the pages will be lovely with what you do write. I have so many things to remember that I use post-it notes to write out the things that I don't need or even prefer to be recorded for all time. Just stick them in over anything on the page and take them off when you no longer need the reminder or have completed what it was you needed to do.

Here are a couple more sample pages that might give you a better idea.





A number of you have asked me what type of magazines I use. I have quite a collection of magazines that have been given to me over the years--mainly old Victoria, Country Living, and Mary Engelbreit's magazines, that have very nice photos that are never outdated. I often see magazines like this in thrift stores, and/or at yard sales, and if I were looking for some now, would just keep my eyes open each time I passed through one or the other. Also, when people who enjoy buying and reading magazines discover that you enjoy doing something like this, they may very well be more than glad to pass theirs along to you when they've finished reading and re-reading them, and are tired of having them hanging around. One I have recently purchased and really liked is called "Cottage Living". It seems to have a minimal amount of advertising and lots of very lovely, inspiring photos.

Remember if you do decide to invest in a magazine subscription, that you do get **lots** of journal pages from one magazine and you'll enjoy the photos many times over. Also, I think it would be nice to start out with a subscription, because then you have fresh inspiration and photos to follow along with the changes in seasons and seasonal activities.

You could also use books with nice photos in them, if you had any that were available to you and might just sit unused otherwise, and/or be put to better use in your journal. Different people have different tastes, too, so you can choose magazines or books that have images that speak beauty to you.

Well, I hope this is helpful. I just want to say one last time, it's *so* simple and *any*one can do it. Instead of grabbing a piece of paper to make a list for this, that or the other thing, you would just write it on the pages of your journal, which you can have decorated in about 10 to 15 minutes and then enjoy using (and not losing :o) all through the day...after day.....after day.

I'd love to see photos of anyone's journal pages if you do get one up and going, feel like sharing and time allows. I'll continue to share mine here and there, too.

It was a beautiful day, here. I hope your day was lovely, too.

Warmly, Jewels

P.S. For those that are visiting from Brenda's lovely blog--welcome :o) Please make yourself at home, feel free to visit my About Page, and visit with me, and those dearest to my heart--through my blog, Eyes of Wonder.

Thanks so much for coming by.

Comments

[Elizabeth Quigley]

Thanks Jewels,
I have enjoyed making mine this week. I am glad to see the pens you use. Are they fine point?
Hugs,
Elizabeth

[Dona Morrison]

Lovely site! Your happiness and contentment shine brightly in your words! My beloved mother-in-'love' called me her daughter-in-love! You brought back wonderful memories! Thank You!~Dona Morrison

[shawn]

You are awe-inspiring! Where to begin? I learned of your site just last nite at a dinner with friends, and came home to promptly find your blog. I spent at least two hours reading your archives, and went to bed feeling completely peaceful. My life is a contrast to yours, I think, with busy, busyness! While I am sure your life with ten children is quite busy, it seems a slower, lovely pace. Your photos are stunning, and your words and faith are admirable. I get the feeling that your closing of each post was genuine, and you really do hope the best for each person who is reading. Your spirit is warm!
As for your journal description, I am a scrapbooker. I love documenting my family's moments through art and photos. I've been wanting to start a prayer journal lately though, so maybe your beautiful style will inspire me. I love that you add magazine pictures in it! Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and words, it is appreciated.

[Laura Morrison]

that is really neat. I haven't thought about decorating my journal pages. Thanks,Laura

[Mrs. H]

Thanks for the inspiration - your pages are lovely.

I've read through your archives throughout the day today - and again I just have to tell you thanks for the inspiration -in pictures and words.

I do have a couple of questions. I noticed a few items (rainbow blanket with Celeisa, and the colored pencils) are those from Nova Natural Toys?
And also I just love those macrame curtains! I have kept my eye out for some, but have never found any. So where did you find them?

Have a great evening,
Mrs H

[Lori]

Thanks for posting again and giving more detail on your lovely journal. I love all the pictures you take. You're a real inspiration to all of us who visit your blog. Blessings!!

[Maud]

Your pictures are very inspirational! Thank you for them.

[Linda]

Thanks for this post. I have been wanting to keep a journal and you have given me a lot of really good ideas!!

[Loral]

I just found your blog and am enjoying it immensely! So many lovely things, and your journal idea is wonderful. It would satisfy the inner child in all of us who loves cutting out pictures and pasting things up! I would appreciate having my name tossed in the hat for your generous giveaway :)

[Tara]

Hi Jewels,
Stunningly beautiful! That's what I think when I see you vibrant colored pages. I absolutely love it. If my name does not get drawn tomorrow, I will doing this on my own this weekend. I love to makes lists and I love to write. I love the color red!! I have already subscribed to The Southern Lady and Victoria. Country Living is also a wonderful magazine that I enjoy. Thank you for sharing your journal and your steps in filling the pages each day. Very inspirational. Thanks again. Be blessed.-Tara

[Tina Michelle]

really enjoy seeing your blog. beautiful.
have added it to my faves. was told about it by Elizabeth over at "Elizabeth's Clothesline" glad I took the time to check it out.
will visit again often. (feel free to check out my little corners of the web..www.gardengoose.blogspot.com and www.stliving.net)

[Regina Clare Jane]

What a beautiful site you have! I just visited last night and had to come back first thing this morning! I loved this post because I usually am a good starter but I don't always keep up- I think with all these helpful tips and just the sheer beauty of your ideas for a journal, I will be able to now!
I am looking forward to going through your archives!
Blessings on you and your beautiful family!

[Mrs.Garcia]

Hello, I also enjoy this blog so much. I also especially enjoy the pictures on this blog. I also wanted to thank you for going into more details about your lovely journal. I can not wait to make my own for my family and I.
God Bless,
Mrs.Garcia

[Heather S.]

Again, inspiring! I am anxiously awaiting another day that I can get out of the house and go to the store for some supplies. Life is busy with many littles (as you know) and I usually don't get too many opportunities to go thrift store shopping, etc. With this pregnancy, I tend to get stiff & sore from being on my feet too much. But, as I said before...I am inspired and have dozens of ideas floating around in my head!

Today I plan to make a dress for our 11th anniversary (Friday). With most of my tasks completed, I am almost at the point of sewing! (O;

Blessings!
Heather

[Shereen]

Thank you so much for giving us another peek into your journal. If I don't win, I am definitely going to start this as well. I would love to get my daughters involved as well. One daughter loves clothes from the Edwardian, Regency period, etc, and has lots and lots of pictures printed up. She has no use for them, and this might be perfect for her. Thank you so much for the great inspiration. I'm sorry to hear about your neighbor.

[Angela in CA]

I just came across your blog and it's lovely. Thank you for the inspiration. With our fifth child due any day, it seemed like a nice, quiet time to start my journal. My dear husband had requested I start journaling with the children. Now they are inspired too! Thank you again.

[Cassandra]

I LOVE these pages. Thanks for posting them so that we can have more ideas!
<><
Cassandra

[Buffy]

I am new to your blog and think it is very pretty. Your journals are stunning and beautiful. I have never seen anything quite like them and I think they are an excellent idea. I love blogs like yours that are inspiring.

[Amy]

The simple things are the most beautiful. I have never thought to combine the pictures with my words. I went out yesterday and purchased everything I would need to begin my own colorful journal. I would like to create a post referencing your post if it is okay. Thank you so much for inspiration!

[Brenda@CoffeeTeaBooksandMe]

I have a scrapbook similar to this but you have given me such marvelous ideas.

It is beautiful!

[Peggy]

Good Afternoon dear sister,
I wanted to share with you some of my new goodies for my Simplicity Journal. Also, you are invited as well as your dear readers to play Kitchen Bingo:-)
http://homemadesimplicity.wordpress.com/2007/06/19/my-simplicity-journal-goodies/

[Sheila]

I just discovered your blog and your beautiful journal. Wow!

[Mrs G]

your journal is beautiful :)

[Karen]

Your journal is beautiful! I'm so inspired to create one of my own. Thank you for all the tips and ideas on what to use. I'm looking forward to visiting your blog again:)

[Robin]

I just found you via another blog. I love this journaling idea. When I was in college in the 70's. I did something like this, but used rubber cement(all the art majors said it was the best to use!) which over the years ruined the paper. I'm inspired to try again.