Brookside Diaries

Writing in journals is, I think, one of the most fun things to do.  I have been a HUGE fan of journal writing for the past few years.  I virtually ALWAYS have one with me…and when I don’t, I get a little jittery.

I use journals to jot ideas, recommendations, dreams, and “to do” lists, among other things. I really wish that I could sketch. To add some art to my journaling, I often loan my journal to 4 3/4 for her expert sketching (better than mine, for sure!).

I am also a complete geek when it comes to tearing sheets out of magazines and newspapers and then strategically placing them into my journals. ….well, they feel strategic…to me anyway.  Design, quotes, images, and all kinds of great, inspirational things go into my journals.

Full disclosure:  I use lots of different colors, highlighters and even an occasional crayola on the pages.  My girlfriends from college will fondly (or jokingly!) remember my affinity for the Bic multi-color pen.  You know…the one where you can switch from red to black to green to blue instantaneously. I still think they are F-bomb brilliant!

For years, I have been a HUGE fan of MOLESKINE journals.  According to their website (http://www.moleskines.com), Moleskin is the legendary notebook that has held the inspirations and ideas of everyone from Van Gogh, Picasso and Hemingway. Artists, authors, and geniuses of all variety have long appreciated the simplicity and superior functionality of these notebooks.  Just to use one and be in the company of artists, authors and geniuses sounds pretty dandy!  Osmosis?  I can dream….

Historically, Moleskin journals were produced by small French bookbinders who supplied the Parisian stationery shops frequented by the international avant-garde. However, In 1986, the last manufacturer of Moleskine, a family operation in Tours, closed and Moleskines were gone – but not forgotten. As a result of their previous popularity and demand, they did return. In 1998, a small Milanese publisher brought these books back for writers, artists, travelers and all free-thinkers around the globe.  Yipppeee-Skipppy!

Thank you to these Milanese publishers for having the vision and foresight to bring back such a chic, memory-making accessory. I also love nothing more than supporting a visionary company.

Today I came across the chicest, coolest, most magnificent capsule collection that Scottish designer Holly Fulton is doing for Smythson (http://www.smythson.com/).  Ohhhhhh am I excited about this!

Smythson has partnered with Holly Fulton to create a limited edition manuscript book with a deco inspired illustration on the cover.  They are GORGEOUS.  Sorry, Moleskin, but I may need to dabble in the Smythson journal waters for this beautiful collection.

Happy Journaling!