You: Journaling (The J.O.Y. Experiment)

I have kept a "diary" since I received a Hello Kitty one in the 2nd grade. I still wish I had it.  It said things like who I thought was cute, who was my best friend, how awesome my gold belt & rainbow shirt were, etc...

You know, the important things. (smile)

I began to truly journal in high school when the depression was especially bad.  I let up during college.  And, started again...rather faithfully...when I got married.  I have all my journals since that time.  And, every once in a while...I pull them out & read them.  I am always amazed at the things I have forgotten OR just how amazingly insightful I am.  (sarcasm...the insight not the forgetting.  forgetting, i'm a pro.  now, what was i talking about)

 

My journals have evolved like me.  It used to be just me writing what was going on & my feelings.  Then, I began to journal scripture verses & lessons the Lord taught me.

I started to add my sermon notes.

And, fun evenings out.

Notes from the books I read.

Above, are my notes from the book Unglued.  

Good stuff.

Stuff I would forget if I didn't write it down.

Then there are things about my kids.  Like when Ry got caught being good at school.  And, when Mac received his first information postcard from a college!  What?!?!?!?

And, I clip articles & design ideas & tape them in there as well.  Before Pinterest, I used to have separate notebooks for my craft ideas & home decor.  Now, I get so few magazines that I just put them in my journal.

So, I guess I really created a psuedo Smash book before it was cool.

I want to encourage you if you are joining me in The J.O.Y. Experiment to begin to journal.  Your journal doesn't have to be like mine.  But, I can testify to the fact that you will be so glad you took the time to write down your thoughts, His Word, and how you created J.O.Y. in your life through JESUS, OTHERS, & YOU.   When we look back in December and celebrate His birth, your journal will stand as a testament to His faithfulness & goodness.  

Happy Friday, friends.  I hope your weekend is filled with family, friends, and some time with our Jesus.