I don’t really use prompts, but I’m really considering doing so soon. I want to commit myself to making journaling more of a regular habit until it becomes a daily practice and prompts may be a good way to get myself there.

Right now I just kind of do it when I feel like it, and sometimes I’ll go days or weeks between entries. It’s sad because I know how much it helps me when I’m consistent with the practice, but yet I haven’t really made it a priority.

I’ve been journaling on and off since I was a kid, but I don’t have any of my old journals from then. I have one from my teen years (cringe), and then I really got back into it again a few years ago.

I agree! I’m looking forward to more activity here, this is one of my biggest hobbies and I can’t wait to see the community grow. Thanks for creating the space!

I don’t hold back. I’ve learned that if people wanted me to write kindly about them, they should’ve behaved better toward me. Also, they shouldn’t snoop through my shit.

One day, I’m sure my kids will read my journals. They’ll get a better understanding of what my mind was like and who I am as a person. I’m not perfect, and I like to hope that I’ve raised them to be compassionate humans. Maybe they won’t judge me too harshly for being a stupid ass while I was growing and learning and making mistakes.

More than anything my journals are for me. I write what I feel and what I think. I get things out of my head so it’s not so full all the time, so I can be more clear headed when I need to be. It’s also an extension of my brain. I have a neurological condition and my working memory sucks. Writing down my memories helps me not to forget important things, but also mundane things that I want to remember- like when my kids did something cute or silly.

So no, I don’t hold back, because my journal is a part of who I am- flaws and all. If I can’t be comfortable within my own skin and in my own mind, then I have a bigger problem.

Right now I’m using a TN size dot grid journal (it’s Archer and Olive brand but it was a gift, I normally wouldn’t buy that brand for myself and I’m not sure I’m fond of the size either). I’m struggling to get through the whole book, mainly because I always want to start a fresh book once I get halfway through a current journal. The good thing about this book is that the paper is 160gsm and holds up well to any medium I’ve thrown at it so far, and since my journaling style changes on a whim from longform writing, to doodling, to marker, watercolor, and collage, or any combo of multimedia this is a good thing.

As for my pen, I’m using a Uniball multi pen that I can change out the colors as the mood strikes. I’m considering getting into fountain pens (I’ve always wanted to try them, just haven’t yet) now that arthritis is kicking my ass. My main issue with pens is that I don’t like gel, and I need a fine or ultra fine tip. Thankfully my Uniball does come in .38 which works nicely.

I ordered two Platinum Preppy fountain pens with some ink cartridges, one with a fine nib and one with an ultra fine nib. I guess we’ll see how those work out. I know it’s usually frowned on in the fountain pen world, but I’m also curious about the retractable fountain pens- come for me if you must!