My Everything Books

I currently am using two spiral journals for what I refer to as my Everything Books. One is small enough that I can tuck it in my purse/diaper bag to take with me when I'm out and about. The other is larger and usually stays at home. These are just blank books that I've added pictures into to basically make them more fun to write in and use. I was inspired by Jewels' entries on her books.

I fill the books not only with beautiful pictures and collages, but with everything else I want to write down to remember. So, one page may be Scriptures I'm trying to memorize, the next may be my big, on-going To Do List. I have pages for Prayer Requests and pages of quotes I like. I've even started a page to list the books I'm reading. Some pages are just journaling, others are for planning events like the Christmas Tea, or Thanksgiving. I've got a Christmas section in the large book right now that has Advent Ideas, Wish Lists and Meal Planning.

The pictures may be just of images that catch my eye, or ideas for future craft projects. Some pages have one big picture, some collages, some no pictures, or just one little picture. Sometimes the pictures inspire me to journal on a specific topic, or give me just a quick chance to dream. I've even used the pictures to cover pages that looked too messy to me.

I'll put in post-its for the more mundane To Do Lists that will be completed in a day. I also put in photos, or a pressed flower. I've even had Pumpkin color in them so that I can keep those drawings as well. I've included little pictures from my neice, and may even throw in a sketch or two of my own. One really helpful thing is a list for Thank Yous that I need to write. I keep the list in one place and check them off as they are written. This was really helpful after Dumpling's birth!

The covers are collaged with all sorts of things. I included ribbon, buttons, and a vintage calling card on my little book. The larger book contains pictures from old Victoria magazines. It's helped to reduce the clutter of old magazines, as well as freed me in many ways.

I enjoy writing down my thoughts, but find that I am intimidated by a full blank sheet of paper. Lined paper drives me nuts as well. This way, there is already something there, I just get to fill in the blanks with my (random) thoughts. The pictures often make me smile and clear my thoughts.

It's also wonderful to use for taking notes on Bible studies, speakers, as well as having a place to keep Prayer Requests for family and friends. I can then go back and write down updates and other answers to prayer. Plus, I'm less likely to say I'll pray for someone and forget, since I have it written down.

I love my books. For a visual person like myself, it's wonderful! I like having all the little details of life in one place. This helps.