Why Every Woman Needs a Notebook

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Good morning, Daily Connoisseurs. My blog is currently under construction as we prepare to move it to a new platform. If you previously received blog notifications and no longer do, that is why. The new blog and newsletter will be announced soon. Thank you for your patience! I would love to know about your experience with notebooking, planners, and journaling. Let us know in the comments. I'm so passionate about this topic. Thank you for watching and I'll see you on Thursday for an all new video. Love, Jennifer

[@mwebb3014]

Jennifer, will there be a way to subscribe to your blog once the new platform is up and running? I never could figure out how to subscribe to it in its older form. Thanks for this wonderful journaling video! - Melinda

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

@@mwebb3014 Yes, I will resurrect my newsletter and there will also be a way to get email notifications from the new blog. Thank you!

[@asifmuniruniverse7732]

Hi

[@jackiebowen6239]

Jennifer, a notebook I once had was "Mommy's Sunshine Book," where I jotted down nice things our kids did for each other (very mundane, like "Jessica let Julia pick the candy first"). I would read them aloud at bedtime to them, which they loved and asked to hear often. I believe it helped their self-esteem and it definitely cut down on petty arguing between them because they wanted to get a new entry in the "Sunshine Book." 😉 It was a basic bright-yellow school spiral notebook that really makes us smile to see even today. Wish I'd kept it up longer.

[@21972012145525]

That’s cute

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I love that!

[@ciannacoleman5125]

I love that idea!

[@wendythomas4930]

How wonderful! Raising your children to love eachother will last a lifetime & beyond.❤

[@jandkhilbert]

Super idea!

[@Paperdoll-]

I lost my son almost 2 years ago. A grievance worker suggested to write things down for my grand son. So I created my first junk journal. I added photographs, stories, and memories, also from his friends. This is a very valuable keepsake so his son can know his father. I also do a lot of journal/art pages to help with my sorrows, which has really also helped in healing.

[@eirenmist12]

What a lovely and loving thing you are doing for your grandson! I am glad that your journaling, both for yourself and for your grandson, is helping in your healing. Your son would be so grateful that you are keeping his memory alive in his son.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I'm so sorry for your loss ♥

[@roghabhrideradioshow]

How beautiful Paperdoll. What a treasure for your grandson.

[@AMcDub0708]

This grieves my heart to hear about the loss of your precious son. I’m so glad you have found a way to help you heal and create something so meaningful for your grandson and yourself. May the Lord be your ultimate source of strength. I sent a prayer for you during this holiday season.

[@pattyg8204]

I'm so sorry. How painful to lose your beloved son. Your grandson will surely treasure that journal.

[@kacierobson7916]

I’m a quiet but avid listener of your channel, Jennifer. I just felt compelled today to write a word of gratitude for what you do here. I go to church to be filled by that which can only be filled by being in relationship with the Lord. Your channel truly fills something inside of me that yearns for “more” out of my myself and the standards by which I want to live my life. My social media presence is very limited because of the negativity that can be found around every corner. But this corner is such an inspiration and light for me and I know so many others that are just not satisfied with the status quo of todays versions of beauty and elegance. So, from little me over here in rural Virginia, thank you. Your work here is so valued and important. It brings me so much joy and I look forward to every video. Blessings to you!

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

How wonderful. Thank you!

[@annaszeleszczuk3418]

Exactly the same here, Jennifer. I'm Anna grom Poland. I love your channel, love your books. Thank you for your wonderful work and how it is constantly improving my/our life at home, with family and much more than that.

[@LearnHowToPlayMusic]

Yes!!! I wholeheartedly agree with this comment as well ❤

[@pattyg8204]

Well said! My thoughts exactly.

[@RoscoeCH]

Luckily my grandmother kept journals. She died when I was 2 or 3 but I've gotten to know her through her journaling. It also inspired me to keep my own--I started keeping a journal when I was in the 4th grade and continue to do so. It is a place where I can let my thoughts and emotions spill out without reservation. I never knew my grandmother but she has helped enrich my life beyond measure.

[@susiemccoy7]

I have a scripture journal. I write the scripture down in a notebook that goes along with my daily devotional. It's like planting seeds in the soil. But, most importantly for me is reading the bible each day, spending time with my Father, listening, enjoying & living my best life.

[@sherriepiechowski4556]

Lovely video- I have prayer journals that date back thirty years or more. I too enjoy writing and keeping track of the things I’m grateful for, ideas swimming around in my head, feelings of different emotions, people I feel pressed to pray for and overall journeys and adventure. These are the things I journaled with much gratitude to the Lord.

[@yolandamarrero-lopez9688]

It feels silly saying this (although I know it isn’t,) but this video bought tears to my eyes. I had /have always wanted to journal, but for lack of privacy, as my mom would be into all out things, I was terribly afraid to write anything down. As I got older, the feeling stayed with me and so I never did. I have toyed with the idea for several years now, to the point of having purchased beautiful notebooks with that intention. Alas, I still have not, but you have inspired me to start today. This comment will make a good start to my first journal… Thank you, God bless you, and keep shining His love.

[@MsRamona7]

I believe in you and send you strength to start journaling. For the same reason I started to journal in a foreign language my relatives did not know. Recently, I swapped into yet another language for my relative speaks the original language but not the new one. This way, I kill two birds with one stone - preventing prying eyes understanding my entries while learning the language syntax and lexicilogy… Go for it and make your dreams come true by the mightiest person in your universe - you!

[@sarahannsmith3129]

I can relate to this.....I recently started writing and keeping a journal again after a long 'break!' Best wishes to you!

[@superheroslash]

Perhaps try writing in a code or cipher so no one else will read your writing. That might help give you the confidence to go for it.

[@roghabhrideradioshow]

Hola Yolanda! Did you start writing in your journal? I so hope you did. Please give us an update. 🙏🏻

[@AMcDub0708]

@@superheroslash I did this as a kid. I made one up by combining alphabet characters I liked from other languages. For example the backwards R looking letter in Russian would be an “LY” sound at the end of a word or a Cantonese character would be a B or 2 stacked dots over a consonant would mean a vowel. I memorized this perfectly and can read it like English, even to this day (25 years later 😂)

[@FREETOFAMILY]

Love this Jennifer! Thank you for featuring our books❤ Yes every woman needs a notebook and a nice pen 😉 🙏🏾xo Kim

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I love your notebooks, Kim! It's my pleasure to share them. ♥

[@FREETOFAMILY]

@@TheDailyConnoisseur What a lovely surprise! Thank you for being so gracious ❤

[@d-cameliaR]

This is something you would print on your Tshirt * every woman needs a notebook and a nice pen* thank you

[@Lorikneisler]

A daily gratitude practice has changed my life! I frame this exercise as “what are the gifts of the day?” This helps me be very specific with my list. Rather than saying I’m grateful for a nice neighbor, I will say that I’m grateful for the neighbor because she stopped by that morning to have a nice chat with me, and I feel warm and welcome in my neighborhood. Thanks for all you share!

[@miriam8026]

What a great idea and easier way to be more specific! Thank you for sharing!

[@MsBackstager]

For studying for a test, it helped to write, write and rewrite my notes continuously as I recited them.

[@larag1764]

I did same when studying at university 30 years ago, when it was big text books rather than computers we used !

[@MsBackstager]

@@larag1764 But it doesn't work when trying to memorize dialogue.

[@loiscassels8966]

I liked to condense my notes in writing and review them over and over. It got to the point where, during the exam, I could almost visualize the words on the paper, and there would be the answer. Graduated with honours! ❤️🇨🇦

[@kimberlyanne8055]

Someone may have already shared these ideas, but long ago, I started a quotations journal. When I find ones that really "hit" me I'll write them into that journal- from deeply moving to funny ( some of my favorites are from Mark Twain - hilarious). I keep lots of journals, too. Some you didn't mention are prayer journals, a journal keeping track of every book I've read, household journals (notes on candles for future reference, laundry tips, companies I like, etc.). Just a fun note- I have every single Victoria magazine ever published, so we are very much kindred spirits. Look forward eagerly to all your posts and have read your wonderful books. Bravo!

[@user-on7zd8yi8g]

I agree, the prayer journal is the most important one!

[@paulajohnson7075]

Thank you for the added titles, Kimberly Anne! I have a quotations journal, also.

[@tgardenchicken1780]

I used to write down quotes, had notebooks filled with them

[@carolyndalton7775]

This is one of my favorite videos. As a teen I journaled as a part of counseling. I wrote everything I felt as I was going through the process and then when I got older I burned them because I never wanted anyone else to read or see them and I am so glad that I did. I was diagnosed with PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.

[@annaharman5600]

I started my journal book when I was 16. A year later after Mama died, I burned it because I didn’t want anyone to read it.

[@carolyndalton7775]

@@annaharman5600 I felt it was really cleansing and helped me heal from some many, but was for my eyes only. Even my therapist never read any of it, I was simply enough to pour it out on paper and rid my mind and soul of the pain. I hope it helped you in the same way. I also was 16 at the time.

[@susanlynn5159]

I believe that journaling can be a helpful tool to sort through situations and to identify the emotions attached to the situation itself and the people involved. It brings a clarity I wouldn’t have had if I hadn’t thought through it all and put it to paper. I agree 10000% that the very personal and emotional entries should be destroyed. I mentored tweens and late teens for 15 years and advocated this process to the girls/young women. We talked through everyday growing up issues, life issues that are in the grey area, and the issues that surround us that can be ugly. I think that there is a freedom in writing out our human responses that can be harsh, selfish, and yes, ugly, and getting them out of our head and our hearts knowing it’s never going to be seen. It gives us a chance to purge our emotional responses, read everything again, take a step back and review the situation and people involved with a clearer perspective. Take some cleansing breaths, then SHRED SHRED SHRED. Thank you for sharing a part of your journey with us.

[@carolyndalton7775]

@@susanlynn5159 I kind of think of the old Virginia slims commercial. You’ve come along way baby. Journaling definitely gave me a great result and a tool to add to arsenal.

[@susanlynn5159]

@@carolyndalton7775 I love that and it's so true.

[@jjhulce722]

Charlotte Mason recommends three notebooks. A common place notebook which is basically just quotes. Kind of like your last one but not our thoughts about the quotes. Also a logbook which is where I write down everything the kids and I learned each day. (kind of like reverse planning 😊) Finally, CM recommends a mother’s diary to keep notes on the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual growth of their children.

[@TracieClaiborne]

Love Charlotte Mason. ❤

[@Joy_Star2]

I keep many notebooks. Recently I started keeping a small notebook - Triggers of Delight and Happiness. My friend suggested a list of 5 on a piece of paper to carry along with you. It is something to look at and remember these things when you feel bad. I started writing these things that trigger joy as they happen in my day in a notebook. Just reading them when I pause and rest really changes my mood. We so often magnify all the triggers of negative emotions that we forget to focus on what can evoke an immediate JOYFUL response.

[@MsBackstager]

WOW! Your children are budding artists.

[@Helenwpower64]

You just gave me a brilliant idea for a journal, A Prayer journal. Whenever I pray, particularly when I pray asking for help either for myself or when I pray for others. When my prayers are answered I can write this under the place where I asked for something. Thank you 😊

[@jamesbriggs5740]

I have a Bible study journal. I write what I learn from my studies. Also an art ideas notebook. That way I don't forget an idea. Kathy B

[@lynnwalker]

My sister and I spent a month traveling in Europe about 14 years ago. I wrote down everything we ate, did, purchased, experienced...all of it! And I'm so thankful I did. Especially the food! I would detail what we ate and ideas on how to recreate it when we got home, which we did! Your video is a great reminder to me to keep writing down my experiences to look back on later! Thank you

[@tanyavansloun8231]

I kept a pregnancy journal with my first baby and LOVE going back to read it! Especially being pregnant now with baby #2, I am keeping another one and can look back and compare the 2 pregnancies. I wrote them to my child with the hopes of giving it to them one day.

[@melissawilson4796]

Thanks for this video . I love the preserve journal idea. Something I started doing a few years ago is a journal /memory book ( a binder in my case) called Remembering Loved Ones Lost. Anytime someone special to me passes away ( whether it’s a family member , friend, acquaintance, co worker, etc) I put in their obituary and then write how I felt about that person, memories together, or something I will miss about them. It is a treasure. It’s a good way for me to remember and think back on all the good times, and to not let the memory of them fade as the years go by.

[@Shannon.Hazleton]

I’m such a notebook girl- this makes me so happy. And notebooks make me happy 🥰

[@teresablakey5446]

Great ideas! The last book you described is essentially a commonplace book. There's a really great book called the The Well-Educated Mind by Susan Wise Bauer that goes into greater detail about how to read the classics and how to journal using a commonplace book for self-education.

[@a.g.662]

What a coincidence! I recently decided to maintain a small notebook in order to take notes on my monthly visits to exhibit at local cultural institutions. Kind of like being in grade school again😊

[@jramsay8075]

wonderful video. I am a nature lover, spending a portion of each day outside, regardless of the weather, soaking up God's beautiful creation. I combine my thoughts, observations, and sometimes a small treasure, such as a leaf, into my Art and Poetry Journal. Thank you for sharing with us Jennifer. Adeline

[@arizonajen7577]

Songs. I’ve written down songs I love since I was a kid. I desperately wish I still had my young “songs books.” It’s fascinating to look back to see what songs were resonating with me at different points throughout life. Music is life for me! I also like to keep a reading journals; what books I read, when, star rating, what was enjoyable about the title. Don’t be afraid to note in books. It is loving and oh so valuable to others, later. I’ve learned so many lessons from reading the notes in my Grammy’s bible. She even tracked to development of my grandfather’s Alzheimer’s battle in the back of her bible. SO SPECIAL!! Also, keep research papers and keep them in a journal. Keep notes on writing papers. Again, fascinating to go back and read later. I have a paper I wrote in 1988 on abortion. Being a less than stellar student as a teen, I am so grateful some of my work survived. I’ve also reread my graduate Frankenstein papers. Reading the same title often tears a different experience each time. Love the history of experiencing a book. I keep a health journal with all of our medical associated appointment and information from the appointments. I have one for my husband and I, and one for my mother who is the early stages of dementia. This journal has saved us at the ER more than once. Prayer journals are always wonderful to go back through. You forget older colleagues and acquaintances. Bible verse journal is also helpful. Creat a paper journal with greetings cards given on holidays. Mother’s Day cards may beautiful journal for the next year. I would caution against keeping a “bad” journal. My grandmother (raised me) kept a journal one year about everything with which she found fault in me. Being a hyper, talkative, strong willed child, that journal is huge, filled, and full of heartache.

[@victoriapilipovich4694]

I use a ring bound planner that I can change inserts to what I need. It is everything from my journal, planner, gratitude, to my bill tracker. I have found this works great for me and keeps me consistent. After I’m done with the inserts for the month I take them out and file them to keep for the future! Loved all of these ideas!

[@christinahaftmann4065]

By Henriette Anne Klauser: 'Write It Down, Make it Happen' She proves that there is something positively magical about writing it down.

[@worditoutwoman]

Or, Write It Down As It Happens” or Write It Down When It Happened”. This way things are already real, happening or done.

[@lauragem796]

One of my favorite books.

[@christystinson9944]

I have several journals. My grandparents took me on a trip for 6 weeks and she had me journal that trip. I still have it and so appreciate it. I now journal all my trips with my husband. I also have a work notebook , brain dump journal and a daily memory keeping journal.

[@Polished77]

Thank you, Jennifer! I’m 30 days away from getting married, and you’ve inspired me to document this magical time (even though sometimes it’s stressful). Just finished a long entry documenting my feelings and plans for the big day. I know I’ll be glad to look back on this time one day 💕

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Excellent. Congratulations!

[@sabrinapulley8049]

my husband watched his father keep a journal as a child so he modeled this and began writing in one at 12 years old. He documented major life changes for the family for 10 years. Every year we open it up and laugh at the entries from when he was a child; I wish I had done the same because it is so special.

[@MustardSeedish]

I do a hybrid of bullet journaling for the last couple of years. I need to do more journaling. I love reading mine from when my kids were little. There's so many things I've long forgotten about. What a treasure.

[@margaretmerrick2747]

I have many notebooks. I write down what makeup i wore that day, how it wore, the temperature outside and the humidity. I have another journal for mom struggles. I have a journal i write to my father who passed away 20 years ago. I also encourage my daughter to journal. Some days I don't journal but most days i do. Thank you for the additional ideas for journaling.

[@chantellucky4565]

I have journaled since I was 15 and today I am 74 years old! At some point, the volumes of journals culminated are overwhelming and I ran out of space to house them! I have no one actually interested in my life to want to read them much less to keep them or see value in them! There are lots of life lessons written in them if only I could sell them online to let these life experiences teach others and to learn from!🤣 Meantime, I still write daily as it is a habit now, I began to wonder what would become of these journals after I depart this world when I am very old!?! …just pondering….

[@wachol3]

We need a little library system to pass our journals on to others.

[@jessicaperteet913]

I am a huge journal person! I have a “Line a Day” journal, a quiet time companion journal, a guided journal with The Next Right Thing, a commonplace journal, and a mother’s logbook for homeschooling. Recently I started Silk and Sounder journals.

[@Miriam-qb4cr]

Hello Jennifer. You’re right, journaling is necessary for women. We are often so busy taking care of everyone… writting down our thoughts brings us calm and helps us to be focused. Thanks for your ideas. I wish you, and all the connoisseurs a beautiful and calm week. Hugs fron Spain. 🌻

[@loryhoesle3208]

I have done a prayer journal for many years now. And it's spiritually purposeful to me and very rewarding!

[@HopeFilledPen]

I'm a poet and I have a small Tolkien inspired journal where I just write haikus. In up to 106 now. I put it aside from time to time, but I pick it up again. Several of those haikus have made it into my poetry books. And now you make me want to dig out the journal I kept while I was studying in London, England, for a month. That was way back in 2011. Should be an interesting read.

[@angelaorme6683]

Thank you for making this video Jennifer . I thought it was only me who was obsessed with notebooks and love the story of your Grandmothers travel journal and how through it you can learn about her life 💕

[@evasochocki5209]

Obsessed with notebooks. That's a perfect description. I thought it was just me as well. Glad to know there are other notebook junkies out there LOL

[@jenniferwalker3778]

Over the last 3 years I’ve kept a journal with the intention to share with my daughters down the road. I’m a young mom and I want my daughters to be able to reflect back on my experience in growing in faith, raising kids and keeping a home.

[@laurindamclean7510]

I loved this... my whole life I've been addicted to buying little notebooks and writing things down... But, I wanted to tell you that my Mom has kept a diary since she was very little. I'm guessing she was 8 when she started and she kept all her diaries to this day! She was a missionary in Mexico and she kept journaling that whole time and she is now 94. I have and am blessed to have all her diaries! I want to go through them and write a book... Will be very meaningful to me and maybe to many!

[@melaniehtito]

Oh yes- and I keep a journal for each of my children where I stick in photos, animal stickers, little notes of what they're doing and what they're eating (begun when they started on solids). I like the idea of the preserve journal for yourself - I never thought of keeping one for me and getting the fam to write in it for me! I think I will do that, I would love to have my kids' doodles in a volume I can look at when they are grown :)

[@pennywheeler2598]

I loved hearing that your children love art. I'm an artist, watercolor is my passion. I sketch and I do all my drawing warm and up drills everyday before I paint. I truly enjoyed this video. Journaling is just a perfect way to exercise the mind. Everyone should be doing this. 🎨

[@paulajohnson7075]

I would love to know more about your drawing warm up drills, Penny.

[@pennywheeler2598]

@@paulajohnson7075 I'm sorry it took so long to get back to you, I was just so very busy. Anyway I cannot explain what warn ups I do it's way to complicated. I did Google hand warm ups for artists and I was surprised to find channels that teach these warm up exercises. Just Google what I did and pick the exercises that appeal to you. My warm ups take me about five minutes. Happy painting🎨

[@paulajohnson7075]

@@pennywheeler2598 Thank for taking the time to reply and for directing me to the warm ups, Penny!

[@loiscassels8966]

That mauve/grey floral wallpaper is to die for! ❤️🇨🇦

[@EpurasMaria]

Hello! Lovely ideas. I had notebook journals for many years in which I used to record my activities, now I have one for simple daily doodles and I moved the journal to a version on the PC. I like it on the PC now because you can search for information more easily and you can print it at the end of the year if you want. I have many word documents in which I write, divided by purpose. For example, I have a dreams doc, a health journal, a house cleaning one, a gardening, a work related one, a mental health journal, a self-care journal etc. I just need time, about an hour per day to fill all the active categories, sometimes I find the time, sometimes I don't. But keeping track of your day to day life is usefull. It helped with my health to notice different simptoms, it helped be more organized. I recommend everyone to keep a journal. Stay classy and inspiring! Warm wishes from Romania. Maria

[@jennifers5778]

Thank you for this confirmation. I have bern a notebook and journal girl my whole life. It is so valuable. I love your channel!❤

[@bruin_tea_et_ecriture]

Looks at my 50 plus inked fountain pen collection, and my 50 gallon tub filled with blank fountain pen friendly notebooks, you’re my people Jennifer! I’ve also been keeping lists of things I’ve watched, read, etc. Sort of like a way to look back at a year in review. I keep a planner, a daily French citation planner, a 5 year book, and a blank notebook for a log of my fountain pen purchases and inks.

[@paulajohnson7075]

Oh, wow! I think you like pens and paper even more than I, Jacqueline!

[@janmay2208]

I have a garden journal. I keep track of what I planted and where and if I liked it. Container pots, what I planted by the stairs, etc. I also keep a journal to capture quotes from books I'm reading or lines from a movie or podcast.

[@AMcDub0708]

1.) I started a notebook of books I finished with a little paragraph of highlights or things I learned or want to remember about the book. Not the same as goodreads bc I’m not writing a review. 2) A Mother Culture notebook. A place to write down things I am working on or want to do/work on to keep my own life-education progressing. The Chic Assignent is part of it 😊3.) A prayer journal for myself. It’s easy for me to forget what God has done so when my faith is small I can look back and say Ah, Yes Indeed!! 4) Poetry to memorize. I’ve done this since my first baby (5 babies now) and being able to quote How Do You Like to Go Up in a Swing to little ones is mesmerizing to them, ESPECIALLY when pushing them on a swing. 5.) Garden Journal: what I planted, when, what worked, what didn’t, varieties I loved/hated, what to try next year. 6.) Calligraphy/Fonts/hand lettering or penmanship practice 7.) Family correspondence. Jot a line of encouragement to a family member, write an open letter to the family. Have them write back if they want. Like pen-palling but in notebook form with your family. 8.) I also have a Shadow Work notebook (sounds creepy but it’s not) where I spill about all my hurts or wounds and then tease apart the cause and how I can heal. Everyone has a shadow self and it is so revealing and healing to do shadow work (without any new age nuances for me). Look it up if you aren’t familiar with it.

[@e.harris4002]

What is it about KZbin that always lets me know what I know I need to do for myself?? Thank you for this video ❤

[@TS26]

Love your ideas! I have a braindump notebook which I also use for to dos, but I most cherish my quotes book where I not down sentences I come across anywhere that I love and want to reread often. I don't journal because I'm so forgetful and don't want it to become an obligation in this season of life. I also have a recipes book, housekeeping book and financial planner. But digital notes are so handy when you can't run for a book before forgetting it 😂

[@kathileedean3851]

Oh my. I’ve never heard of you before (sorry) but the very title of this vid compelled me to watch… and after three minutes I was saying to myself “It’s me. My mirror image.” Not at all physically, mind… My house must currently contain 40 journals in various states of use. I recently finished my second recipe journal and began my third. I have several journals that I collect quotes in, one even on my iPhone Notes, quotes of a specific theme. I put quotes on my phone and iPad mail signature and change them periodically. I have battled over-indulgence and obesity since childhood and have several journals devoted to ideas, revelations, “new starts” and, of course, favorite quotes, all related to my journey of self-exploration as it relates to my relationship with food and my self-image. I have notebooks dedicated to short stories and novels I’ve begun and periodically go back to and try to work on, I have poetry notes, song notes, sketch journals (I do draw and paint). I keep a daily weather journal, recording the time and temp and forecast, sunrise and sunset times, cool things I believe the Lord has shown me during my morning devotions, and periodically record current events simply because we’re going thru such a life-altering time on so many levels, I love your idea of daily tidbits albeit mundane … I have a tiny journal that belonged to my grandmother in which she did the same, in which she recorded the day I was born… I keep book journals, “things I hope to accomplish today” list journals.. >sigh< I sense a kindred spirit ☺️ thank you.

[@jennifershaw4756]

I've just gotten back to journaling because I have been creating Junk Journals to donate to our woman's shelter. It's a great way to upcycle unwanted papers. I'd love to make a special journal for all of the people in my life, but wonder how many people would really want one. Loved your ideas.

[@christylynn9201]

Journaling is so important to me and has changed a lot over the years. For many years when my children where young, I would write down one quote that I remembered they said a few times each week and it's my favorite journal to go back through.

[@lindas5680]

I have a series of journals I call Hobbies journals. In them I write down books I’ve purchased, lists of books I want to find at thrift stores, notes from book podcasts. Also crochet and knitting patterns I’ve found online. And simple patterns I’ve written myself. I used to collect vintage dolls and I would write research on them in these journals. Just anything that is a hobby to me. I also write a rough index on the back cover of these journals of things, especially patterns, I want to easily find again. I’m on Volume 12 since I started about 15 years ago.

[@natashaclark7863]

I am so happy that you did this video, as I have a collection of lovely but very empty notebooks that need to be filled. Going to watch this now. Thanks in advance for the ideas! 😀💖

[@Mimisfamilytable]

Yes, this! This is why I love the Erin Condren petite planners. I can keep my planners, and my notebooks all in one place. They are interchangeable, and each book is beautiful.

[@maryseekspeace7681]

Jennifer thank you for this lovely video! I am so happy to have recently discovered your channel. I live on the East Coast of Canada and 10 days ago we were hit with Hurricane Fiona. Today on day 10 we finally got our electricity back on🙏🏻Despite no WIFI I used data to watch your videos daily which I find to be so inspiring and so calming. Thank you for all of the wonderful tips and information. I’m currently reading the Madame Chic series - adore them❤

[@pauloszetarinielli69508]

#11) Preserve Journal idea instead of cards is brilliant 🎉🎉 Thank you

[@sabrinag3357]

I’ve been on a stationery kick as of lately especially whenever I visit Home Goods. 😅 Thank you for sharing! ❤️

[@paulajohnson7075]

I rejoice with you in having your great grandma's travel journal; how special that is! Also, it was fun seeing some of your children's art. I like keeping quotes of my children and those that my children send me of things our grandchildren say. Example: At 3 1/2 one of our grandsons observed aloud to his daddy on the way home from swimming lessons. "I thought that boy was being grumpy and naughty but he wasn't being grumpy and naughty, he was just confused how the world works." I am sooo glad you kept journals during your time in Paris!. I love the Preserve notebook idea.

[@Melshed]

I just received my customized Plum Paper planner for the coming year, and I always heavily rely on my planners. I also always have a cheap wide ruled notebook, and I LOVE that it’s a cheap one, as I feel free to just dump everything I need into it without feeling like it needs to be organized or pretty. I use it for anything I may need: to-do lists, brainstorming, brain dump, recipes I want to try, tips I want to remember, garden planning, holiday planning, quotes, books to read, podcast episodes I love, places I want to visit, and this week I was brainstorming baby names and chicken feed mix recipes. It’s a mess but I absolutely love looking back on everything through the years and I’m always looking back through them to find something. Journaling however, has never worked for me. I always look back and hate them and end up getting rid of them 😂

[@mireillewohlfart1939]

I could not live without a notebook.... I've gone through different styles and 'methods' over the years and I am very happy now with the beautiful Japanese 'Hobonichi' - I am not a friend of multiple notebooks and this allows me to have everything I need in just one space. In addition to many of the categories you mentioned I also do my wardrobe planning in my notebook...

[@nasreenreza5943]

I am Thankful to god to have you in my life. Because i am always inspired by you for so many things. Right now i am writing my Journal. But i keep one Journal for everything. It's easy for me to handle. Thank you so much

[@celestewatson7836]

Another journal is a Commonplace Book where we can write down favorite quotes from our reading.

[@robertahoffmann8820]

I am obsessed with Journaling like you! I’ve discovered Dot Journaling… there are many videos on KZbin as well as books on this. The great part is it’s extremely creative. Another bonus is you put multiple sections all in one journal!!! I have made it even more workable for myself by incorporating Staples/and Martha Stewart’s papers…where you can take out any page and place in another area of journal! LOVE ALL ABOVE CONCEPTS!

[@anye76]

I like the Gratitude journal. I enjoy seeing how our Heavenly Father works in my life. It's precious. I'll introduce the self development/ self improvement journaling. Thank you for your hard work Jennifer and have a nice day💕😊🌷

[@awalker2244]

This is so nice of you to give a personal shout out to Free to Family

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Kim is wonderful. Thank you!

[@Karen-ve6ds]

I journal to keep myself focused and accountable in regard to what I am planning to do on a monthly and weekly basis. I break down tasks into daily ones. Also, I can see where my time is going. I also have wellbeing trackers and daily pages which is usually me complaining about stuff to myself! If I actually do manage to stay focused, journaling helps a lot. Sometimes though, I fail miserably and for whatever reason, I don’t manage to do anything. I have a health issue that results in frequent widespread pain and fatigue and sometimes a very bad memory! I find that by journaling, it gives me a lot more clarity and less life “fuzz”.

[@clarabarton2087]

I have 2 journals - a Daily Lifeplanner that is just that - Everything! And I have a journal for my devotions every morning where I write a scripture and response and specific prayers that come up. Thank you for this video. You have great ideas so thank you for sharing.

[@christinehucks6997]

I make my journals and notebooks. I write everything in one journal, but keep sermon notes, exercise/walking records in separate little notebooks. Also carry a sketchbook with me since I picked up drawing and watercolor again recently. Thanks for your video!

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I love that you make yours. That is an art in itself!

[@christinehucks6997]

@@TheDailyConnoisseur The world of "junk journals."

[@231moimoi]

I have a “Gratitude Journal” where I write everything I’m grateful for. I had one that I named “1000 Things I’m Grateful For” when I was in university and then I had “1000 Things More” when I started working.

[@thepaintedlady7653]

I was just eyeing a beautiful but empty notebook in my desk. So this is timely inspiration! I’ve decided to use it to store my favourite quotes and excerpts.

[@redbarnplanning7012]

Thanks for these great ideas. I make notebooks and a wide friend told me I needed to tell people why they needed my journals and how they can use them. Your video has me brainstorming new ways to create the journals and market them. Thanks so much.

[@deinamorgan413]

This is so great, I never thought to have a specific notebook for different areas in my life. This gives me an excuse to get more notebooks which I love so much. The ironic thing is this morning I woke up with so much on my mind, I was sitting with my journal but just couldn’t get started and this video gave me the nudge I needed. You have really been like a sweet friend that I need some days. Thank you so much for all you do! Your such a sweet inspiration ❤

[@lidijazivanovic2810]

Recently I started working on a my family history - thanks to a beautiful notebook! It looked so special, that it needed a special subject. Even if only my family will read it , think it is worth it.

[@dianaragub-schwartz4416]

I have been a writer as in I like writing stuff on paper. This is why I get the "wow, you have pretty handwriting" comment all the time. I am a teacher and I love writing on the board. Even my students prefer my classes mainly because they say I have pretty handwriting. Now I use a digital planner but I still write a lot over there using Goodnotes and my Apple Pencil/ Ipad combo.

[@5DNRG]

That neural encoding during cursive writing can also be used in reverse!! One can adapt favorable personality traits by diligently changing handwriting strokes over time...like being more generous with long end strokes at word endings.

[@robertawiggins3695]

I too have a small little notebook that I carry in my purse. I use this as my Wish List. I jot down items such as a books, clothing or gift ideas for others.

[@PrairieTownHouse]

When I was in high school and university, I had a “Quote Journal”. When I’d be reading a book, and read a quote that stood out to me, I’d record it. It was fun, but also really helped when it came time to write essays. I wound often flip through and find quotes that related to what I was writing, and then maybe include them in my essay.

[@s.sflower]

I love writing things down ✍️🏽 💭💕

[@Ps1fer]

Book of centuries from Charlotte Mason approach. Every time I come across a key historical event in other reading, I make a note. It is so fascinating to see which artists were contemporaries, what technology was cutting edge, what geopolitical struggles were making headlines.

[@robindonnelly]

I have dozens and dozens of notebooks, but find I use one daily planner for all this, except travel/art; which get their own specific journals, and housekeeping, which I don’t do myself. A simple 6.5x8.5 weekly/ monthly Blue Sky wired-bound paper planner from Target works great. It has a clear pocket in front and a notes section in back. It’s always by my chair and I keep everything but those things in it. It’s nice to have everything in one place. I also keep track of meals, workouts, weight, books I’ve read, and symptoms that are bothersome.

[@janedoe7330]

Enjoyed this great video. Yesterday I read part of an article on the five year journal. It's good for those who feel overwhelmed with having to write. It has a few lines for each day and as time goes on, you will notice a pattern in your life. This helps you to know what you need to change/do/keep etc.

[@lolgriffin3243]

Oh my goodness! The perfect video! The Daily Connoisseur and notebooks!

[@lavenderperidot1359]

Hi Jennifer. I think we are kindred spirits in this area. As I've gotten older though and the brain feels more scattered, I have felt very disorganized with so many separate journals and notebooks. A few months ago I set up a portable filing system. A big Lands End bag that can move with me from room to room. Inside are some dividers (from yard sales or Dollar Tree). Then I have pretty floral folders or a divided folder with 6 sections. This way all I need is in one spot - all the kinds of things you mentioned. This thought might be helpful for someone out there like me!

[@Barbara-pk6qp]

Hi Jennifer, I have always kept vacation journals with little sketches in them of what we did and saw each day. I look back at these years later much more often than I do at photos. So happy I made them on every trip! If I can I'll include a pic of some of them. Loved this post.

[@Emilyak85]

Oh I love that idea about keeping supplies to encourage art. My mom did a great job of that. She would take me and my brother to an art store once a month to pick up a new sketch pad or pencils. My brother is now a media artist so it’s worked beautifully for him.

[@larag1764]

I have used a daily planner for 30 years. I won't use my phone, much preferring my paper version. I track all appointments, bills, birthdays, etc. Invaluable to me !

[@lettucelondon]

Fellow notebook addict here 🤣❤️ Love this video. It's so so true... Once something is written down, it becomes real and true!

[@glendahodges4019]

I'm glad I'm not the only one that has multiple notebooks!!! This video was wonderful. I have many of the same notebooks and journals.

[@brittanyk3241]

Lovely ideas. I used to journal a lot as a kid and teen. Then like you said, technology and computers came along and evolved, and my journaling slowed down a ton. As an adult now and a mom, I have a couple important journals I do. 1) a leather bound anniversary journal - my husband and I both write an entry every year for our anniversary (replaces both cards and gifts). 2) I keep a quote book of “funny things my child says (and does)”. 3) Instead of birthday card for my child, I write a letter to her every year from myself and husband. I also keep a “baby book” with pictures and memories 4) A journal of recipes (as well as a recipe card catalog). I tried doing gratitude journals and one entry a day journals but for one reason or another couldn’t keep up. One year for Christmas I gave my grandma a “memories for my grandchild” journal (with questions and such to fill out). She enjoyed it. She filled it out and returned it to me several years later. I think all of these will be memories I cherish forever and I’m looking forward to adding a few of these ideas as well ❤

[@KairyMarquez]

Preserve journal 😍🙌🏼 what a great idea!! Thanks!

[@MsViolettEyes]

Good topic! Thnx I thought I was the only one who keeps multiple notebooks. Mine include a ‘to do’, travel, home upkeep + decor, financial to do, expenses, bucket list, entertainment (books, music, movies), recipes, personal care info, diary and more! I mostly have the TUL system which works well but plan to add some other types too. Wish I would have started these notebooks back in my 20’s.

[@21972012145525]

What is tul system?

[@judywauford8095]

Jennifer, I really wish I had kept a journal on each of my children! Not especially daily but writing down all the funny and special things they said and did. You think you’ll remember all of them but you forget and then that special memory is gone! My kids love when I share the things I remember; how special would it be if they had a journal of all those things! Maybe some of you new Moms could do this for you and your kids. It would truly be a treasure some day!❤️❤️❤️

[@username00009]

As a new mom, I would often write directly on the wall calendar because it was easier than keeping track of a separate notebook. I still love looking at that calendar!

[@kathyesargent9088]

There is power in writing down goals it works ❤️❤️

[@kathyesargent9088]

I have a large journal with all this in-one book. Called a Travelers journal❤️❤️

[@kimmc8781]

Hello! Kim from Free to Family sent me.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you for stopping by!

[@katherinerichardson1767]

Thank you because I have always thought a person retains more info. if he/she writes it down. My journaling is a combination of the many journals you have mentioned today. My favorite is writing down my completed daily activities such as mailing bills, receiving cards, phone calls I made & etc. throughout each day. This process has saved me from "trying" to remember if I called someone, when I replaced some item, who I met that was a new acquaintance as well as having person's name and etc. Did you know having children with dyslexia writing in cursive helps them with reading? I taught reading for years and found having the children write in cursive improved reading skills. ✍

[@priscillaramirez2827]

I have been journaling for over 13 years and I think that it is therapeutic. I want to learn how to write books and use my journals to get ideas out of them. I really like the fact that your are a writer I get inspired by you. I thought you should know this. Thank you so much. Priscilla