Why Journal?

I try, though not always successfully to work on my art every single day. On those days I can’t get it together or find the time, I add something to my journal. It’s a way for me to feel I am still being creative, even if it’s for my eyes only. Sometimes I scribble, sketch, write, doodle….it doesn’t really matter as long as I’m doing something.

I used to get hung up about having the perfect journal and I’d get so into that, that I had about 5 journals going at once — one for lists, one for writing, one for sketching, one for visual journaling. It made me crazy!! Then I finally got smart and decided to keep one journal for everything. It’s my go-to book when I need to write myself a reminder note, when I’m waiting in the car for the kids, when I’m having my hot chocolate in the morning. I like to have some of the pages prepped with a painted background or a few collaged scraps — that way I can choose the page that fits my mood and get started. I don’t worry about having the pages in chronological order anymore; I just work where I want and the journal covers most of the year, then I get a new one.

I’ve also learned to keep a small tote bag with journaling supplies like colored markers, a glue stick, my favorite pens and paper scraps. I just throw things into it and add them to the journal when the mood strikes. Art-on-the-go.