Journaling as a Busy Mama

Keeping a journal has been something I've had trouble with my entire life. Buying journals has been (a little too) easy, and I always begin filling them out with the best intentions, but a couple of weeks in I just...forget. I get busy, I skip a night, or I make the mistake of reading back through the pages too soon (embarrassing!). It's unfortunate, because I'm sure that it would be fun to go back and read through them in a decade or two.

When I was pregnant with J, my good friend Leanne (who lovingly feeds my notebook addiction), gifted me with the ideal journal for busy mamas:

It's a five year memory book and there are only a few lines included for each day, so there is no pressure or feeling of obligation when you crack it open! 

Like all my journals, I sometimes forget to fill out my line for the day, but I keep it on the kitchen counter and find myself grabbing for it pretty often. I also keep a little note on my phone with "accomplishments" from the week. For example, if J learns a new word, or if Newt grabs for his toys, I type it out before I forget. This way, it's easy for me to go back and fill in some lines. It's been fun to look back on days from last year and see what J was doing when she was Newt's age :) 

One practice that I saw online somewhere and have found really helpful when searching for something to write, is to include five-point lists. They're super easy and even though they sound a little cheesy, they're actually lovely to go back and read through. Some that I use include:

- Five words to describe your baby

- Five words to describe you at this moment

- Five books I can't wait to share 

- Five foods J is eating right now

You get the idea. 

While most of these little notes and lists are lighthearted or strictly factual, there have been some true moments of catharsis as well. Struggles with breastfeeding, moments of frustration, and tales of (seemingly meaningless!) tantrums have also made their way inside. It has only been a year and a half since J was born, but as I read through the pages from her first few months of life, I sometimes get walloped with a hefty dose of nostalgia. Those early days sometimes feel like a fugue state, and can be almost impossible to recall, even a mere year later. Having these concrete memories is a gift whose value can only appreciate with time, which is why I really try to keep on top things. 

This notebook was one of my favourite baby shower gifts, so if you have a mama-to-be in your life, then this is something to consider while browsing through aisles and aisles of adorable baby clothes :)