Journalling
Last year I decided to keep a journal, not so much a diary but a book to draw in, make notes, save clippings, cards and photographs. I called it my Stuff and Nonsense book and for the first time ever, I actually kept it up all year! I have tried to keep a diary before, but every time, I forget or just don’t have the time or head space to write in it. My journal last year felt much freer and simpler. I didn’t need to write in it every day or every week, but it was a space to vent or share or just put pretty things.
I will keep another this year, as I do feel it really helped my mental health. It was a private space (though I am going to share a few pics here) and I used it in bad times and good. What was nice was looking back through it when I was having a bad time and remembering that there were nice times even in the darkest days.
In February last year, I had my last major surgery and afterwards I was incredibly poorly. My stoma stopped working and I had to go on TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) and had an NG tube (Naso Gastro tube). My kidneys began to shut down and I had a stage 3 AKI (Acute Kidney Injury). Almost a year on, I am still recovering and dealing with after effects from this both physically and mentally. The journal gave me a place to share whether that was artwork, poetry or just a blurting out of words and images that explained how I felt.
I also kept a list of all the books I read in 2020, I love reading and I think writing them down actually made me read a little more than usual.
Ive seen a lot of bullet journals that look beautiful and though mine may be a little shabby and rough around the edges, I love it and think it will be a great thing to look back on through 2020, one of the weirdest years ever! I will definitely be doing another in 2021.
Let me know if you have a journal or diary and how it has helped you.
Peace and love
Sam xx
So sorry to hear you have been so poorly Sam. Sending lots of love and best wishes for speedy recovery. What a great idea the journal to look back on. You have been a great inspiration and help to me as a newby ostomate. Regards Laura xx
Your journal is brill!! Such an imaginative way to document your thoughts and feelings …arty and cathartic. I love reading too and particularly admire your documented reads on their bookshelves x
Really terrific journal pages.
I hadn’t thought of drawing book spines instead of just making a long boring list.
Clever.
Thank you!