Sorted with Style

As a collector of beautiful papers, pens and stationary it is not a surprise that I am a lover of journals. Ever since I was a young girl I have kept a journal. Of course then it was a simple recount of my daily events kept in a small diary with a padlock and key. My love of journals has evolved significantly since then. I am the keeper of  travel journals, recipe journals, scrapbooks and even a journal of lists! An unplanned visit today to the blog of sisigirl and her beautiful artbook journal has re inspired me to return to my own journaling. Of course I do not have the wonderful painting skills that she possesses, yet this doesn't prevent me from creating my own visual journal. There is so much inspiration for keeping a tangible record of your life, goals and creativity!

• Visual Prompts
• Quotations and Poems
• Photo Journals
• Hopes and Heirlooms  
• Travel Journals                        
• Goal Setting
• Dream Journaling
• Gardening or Nature Journal
• Style Files
• Art Journals

Some time ago I purchased a wonderful book by Jason Thompson entitled Making Journals by Hand which has a beautiful selection of journals along with practical techniques for creating journals such as stamping techniques, emulsion lifts, layering , making image transfers etc. I was really surprised to see that there are even companys such as blurb blogbook which make your blogs into books. Such a wonderful idea for all you wonderful photographers! The process of creating something so personal and creative is a very rewarding experience which I urge you to try.

What can define the joy of 'Serendipity' more than a simple cardboard box! As I watched my son playing today with his brown cardboard box I was transported back to a time when my children were babies and the wrapping paper and packaging held far more appeal than all their shiny new toys. I watched as his imagination took flight, his box was transformed into a spaceship, a racing car... a "secret agent" headquarters. He has had so much fun with that simple box and has made me solemnly swear that I won't throw it out tonight ( How well he knows me!!!). I am reminded of how important it is to stop and relish these simple joys, before we know it they are far behind us.

After all the Celebrations of the past few days today my goal was purely and simply to reground myself. I was very tempted just to stay home and do the housework, but instead decided to challenge myself with the 'Spit to Manly Walk" ,which despite being just 100 metres from my front door I have not done for many years. It was a glorious day, I watched the sun dancing on the waves, saw some incredible rock formations and bumped into several water dragons along the way. Engaging in Nature in the best way possible...feet first!

Today was Melbourne Cup Day in Australia, an event in which the entire nation stops at 3.00pm for a two minute race. A day filled with champagne, chicken sandwiches, marquee's and fashions on the field. My challenge today was one I have previously attempted on the past ten Cup Days, To pick a winner!

Based upon my previous Track Record I knew it would be no easy feat! However, on this occassion we had the benefit of a host who is one of Australia's leading Race Analysts. My friend Patrice hosted a decadent day of pure indulgence, which began early with a sumptuous feast of canapes, champagne and of course chocolate covered strawberries. As each race unfolded with no sign of victory I realised that despite the advice from the 'best in the business' today's goal would not be fulfilled and I would have to wait another year for my annual bet. Thank Goodness for Champagne!