Inconsequential Journals

  Recently, I have become obsessed with cat pillows. I don't know why. Something about them is just really appealing. I have pinned quilted cats, knitted cats, cartoonish cats, realistic cats... You get the picture. I am never going to make most of these adorable creations. I know this because long before the cats, I had a rather extensive list of other interesting pillow ideas. A few have made their way into our home but most remain just a thought.  I am betting that you might have some similar inspirations too. Let's sketch out a few of our favorites in our journal today. Do they favor a mood or special location? Add some other items that might compliment the idea. Do they include a pattern? Try it out in various colors and forms on the page. Be creative in all the fabulous ways your heart desires. 

 I was inspired recently when I saw a video on social media encouraging viewers to "shop their house". A person transformed two spaces in her kitchen by simply rearranging knick-knacks. Now I am sure some of you are having thoughts. I did too. She has so much extra counter space that she has areas just for knick-knacks?? Must be nice. But, I have no idea what this person is going through in life and, if we put those judgy opinions aside, this is actually a really good idea. Imagine, for instance, decorating your table for a Fourth of July picnic with stuff you already have. Sure the stores are currently stock full of adorable picnicware preparing for a summer of patriotic events. But do we truly need it? I looked in my cupboard and found little red, white and blue plastic cups in my kid's assortment of drinkware. They could make a cute center piece. I have left over red paper napkins from Valentine's Day that might help my usual plates appear a bit more festive. Will ...

 Life can be frustrating sometimes. Often, we forget to have moments of fun. Still, it's essential to our well being that we enjoy ourselves from time to time. We live life every day not just on special occasions. My suggestion for today is to allow yourself a bit of a treat. First, let's remember that this is an inconsequential journal so it has to be small. Think ten dollars or so. What would you do with that money if you were thinking only of yourself? Pretend you don't have any bills, responsibilities or other people in your life. How is that money being spent?  Will you buy a bag of your favorite candy? Rent/stream a film? Visit a state park? Write out as many ideas as you can and, if you spare the money, go out and make it happen. You are important too.  

 I was at the store today running errands. Nothing usual going on and not feeling particularly harried. Then, the check out person asks if I am having a busy day. I mumble "Yeah, sort of...I guess." cause I am out doing errands before work. They reply, "I hope you are able to rest soon." in a surprisingly serious tone. Now, this should have been a nice exchange. I could have felt seen or appreciated. I did not . I felt judged and ugly. The person was young and beautiful and I stifled the urge to reply, "When 900 years old you reach, look as good, you will not." I am not yet elderly but in that moment I felt it. The check out person could have been trying to offer support but I think it is more likely that they were just trying talk about something other than the 684 consecutive days of rain we've had lately. I get it. I worked in retail in the before times too which is why I should not have let it get to me. It really doesn't matter if it looked l...

  I don't know about you but I sometimes feel like I've got too many hats to wear. Just today, I was chef, nurse, professional organizer, tutor, data entry associate, accountant, researcher, gas station attendant, dog walker, maid, and, of course, chauffeur. Rather than remain frustrated. I have decided to celebrate it in my journal. The hats represent accomplishment, dedication, and caring. These are all things that we do daily and it's time we remember how awesome we are. So, write out all the various jobs/tasks you took on today. Draw little hat doodles all over your page or list the people you helped (even if it was as simple as taking out the trash). You deserve a pat on the back. Well done! Keep up the good work! And don't be afraid to take some time for yourself. You've earned it.

 Okay, let's get real. Most of us are not often asked to dine somewhere requiring close toed shoes let alone a tux. Still, we may have had the opportunity to do something fancy. What was it? Did you have a fabulous meal or tea with pinkies out? I have been fortunate enough to try some very nice restaurants but when I think of fancy, I remember my mother's tuna fish crepes. She would often make a considerably more elaborate spinach and cheese crepe for guests. On these occasions, she would also make a tuna version for the kids to eat before everyone arrived. They were the absolute best. To my six year-old palate, there was nothing more flavorful or sophisticated. Just remembering them makes my mouth water and no seven course meal will ever compete with the delight of those creamy crepes. Do you have any treats like that someone made for you? What truly makes something special? Give some thought to the fancy experiences in your life and make a journal post today. You may find tha...

 The sun is brighter and out for more hours. Hints of spring are popping up everywhere. The stores are selling Easter candy and patio accessories. I am ready. But, in my area we have to finish winter and then go through a long mud season before any good outdoor weather appears. It will likely be a few more months. So, what can be done in the mean time? Well, let's make a list. Brainstorm as many ways as you can to push aside the weather doldrums. This is how I started... 1- Visit a greenhouse 2- Try a new restaurant 3 - Make a citrus flavored dessert 4- Watch a movie set somewhere tropical 5- Buy some inexpensive flowers or a plant