5/15/2025
I was initially drawn to a traveler’s notebook due to the customization potential. I was also hoping to record random mementos in a junk journal/scrapbooking type of format and find creative fulfillment in working with my hands more intricately. I wanted a physical little cozy nook. A place to decorate and organize my thoughts.
The Setup
I ended up choosing a dark chocolate brown leather cover off Amazon with a few insert options— weekly inserts and blank, lined, gridded, and dotted booklets.
The charm on the front was from a cruise ship gift shop that was still in its box when re-discovered years later, just in time for its perfect usage.
From the moment I unboxed the journal, the setup was pure elation. There was endless possibility. I decided to decorate the inserts with transparent floral stickers and took a trip to a local stationary store to get more stickers, tape, and washi. Initial expectations on this endeavor: I thought journaling more creatively would fill some need internally. A high ask, I know.
The Experience
Using this journal regularly provided pocket moments of joy. Decorating each page became an endless challenge, of trying to get just right. But it was calming and restorative. There was no resistance since day one; the habit just slipped into my life like a piece of a puzzle.
Are there tactile pleasures? Of course.
Press the book open, flat, apply pressure. Close the book and squeeze.
The Surprises
I didn’t expect to find such joy in using these analog tools. An unexpected benefit to journaling would be in its incredible meditative effects. I believe spending even just fifteen minutes a day on this task can lead to positive results.
What Changed (If Anything)
Did it change the way I see journaling? In a word, yes. Though I’m no newbie to journaling, the mental clarity and creative freedom it provided this time around, was significant. I used prompts more frequently and outlined project ideas more fully. I experimented in my writing, and this looseness kept me fulfilled.
Would I Recommend It?
Would I keep using it? Absolutely. I’ve gotten halfway through one of the inserts and I am anxiously anticipating seeing the end result of a journal met with so much intention behind it.
Based on my experience, I’d say this habit is for anyone who wants to express themselves with creativity, utilizing various mementos and tools. What they know about themselves and their intentions or goals for the upcoming season can be reflected and it can be worthwhile to have it all collected in one singular place.
In a digital world, the tactile experience of turning a page and feeling the weight of all your words in one hand, adds a certain weight to the reality you encompass. You’re not as fleeting.
Gray matter is more perishable than ink and therefore, taking advantage of getting your ideas, wishes, and projects out onto paper, is in my opinion, the first step in seeing them manifested tangibly.
Leanna 