My Paper Addiction...The Traveler's Notebook

Creative addictions...

I have them, I admit it. 

Paper, it's my not so secret happiness enabler. 

It gives me joy. 

I find bliss in textures, sizes, finishes...it's my creative canvas and it's potential is endless.

My collection grows as the years pass. Journals, notebooks, sketchbooks, planners, even old vintage books that I can repurpose. 

All this being said, there is one book that I love the most.

The Traveler's Notebook.

I adore this little treasure keeper.

I've tried to replace it with other pretties, but they are just not the same. 

I always return.

 

Both the original Midori and faux ones are amazing. 

Choose the size, cover material, and notebooks you love and stuff it full.

Change your books on any given whim. 

Add little pencil pouchs, pen loops, card holders...there is so much to create to make this little set of books uniquely you.

They make great journals, planners, art journals, and so much more.

Mine currently contains; 

Book one: Journal both for thoughts and sketches

Book two: Planner

Book three: Leather zip pouch / card holder.

Book four: Jotter notebook, just for random thoughts, ideas, and events.

This little book has become my carry everywhere notebook.

Until next time, continue to create the precious works within your heart.

Hugs,

Anna

Planner Addict

I've come to realize that I am a paper addict. 

Anything paper...I love it.

I collect it...

I feel it's time to do a little addiction series on my blog. Every few days share a different paper based collection that steals my heart.

Today........Planners 

I love my planner. All of them. Spending time adding touches of creativity inside gives me peace and joy. I switch planners and themes, but I always enjoy each one.

Here's a few favorites; both ones I'm working on and past lovelies. 

This is my newest Heidi Swapp collection. I've ordered a few pieces to complete it, but this is the basic little kit with a camera case that I use as a travel planner case and Betsey Johnson bag that matches perfectly.

Some Christmas goodies to start prettying up this months layout.

And as if carrying one planner wasn't enough, I've added a little month layout one in my Midori. 

Love this one. You can't fit a lot of extras and notes but it is very convenient and lightweight.

Ah...the Filofax. This one is so cute. It's pocket size and I just love playing with it.

Some current Christmas touches.

A little shabby chic with soft colors.

And Kitties!! I love kitties.

Anybody else out there enjoy primping planners?

Hugs,

Anna

Courage in Art Journaling Spread

A brand new art journal.

Crisp, clean ...and blank pages.

Close your eyes. Breathe. Now jump into a new spread and just let yourself go.

Do not fear the empty pages.

This is freedom.

There's no right and no wrong.

No mistakes.

You are the artist. Fill the paper with what's in your heart.

Draw, doodle, scribble, write, stamp, color, and paint with your hearts truest desires.

 * * *

I have found that art journaling is one of the most relaxing and pleasurable forms of art. While I do strive for pretty; I create for me. The art doesn't have to be perfectly polished.  I experiment and create without fear. Unexpected outcomes can be quite pleasant. Taking chances and exploring opportunities is thrilling. 

I have started a brand new art journal illustrating, the courage needed to overcome fear; in my first spread.

Cuddlebug Cuties Art Journal Courage Spread

Cuddlebug Cuties Art Journal Courage Spread and Supplies

Supplies:

Midori blank pages notebook

Gesso

Handmade cloud stencil

Circle stencil

Graphite pencil

Copic multiliner pen

Fineliner pens

Watercolor pencils

Water brush pen

ink pads

Finishing Spray

Hugs,

Anna

Midori Love

When I first started seeing midori traveler's notebooks I wasn't sure what to think.

Functional? To trendy for my taste? What would I do with it?

As I saw them popping up more and more on Pinterest my curiosity was beginning to overtake me.

When I got my midori, I feel in love and never looked back.

Wonderful quality, beautiful leather, tons of options for paper and storage inserts, lightweight, sturdy, and so much potential for personalization. 

The best part for me is that they work well with my purse brand of choice.

I'm a Lucky Brand girl. Have been for about 15 years.

I love the more creative rough look and the midori fits that style well.

Right now my little notebook contains 3 journal inserts. Two lined and one blank, as well as a plastic sleeve for photo inserts with a zipper pouch on  the back.

The first book is for little snippets of my day journaling.

The second book is for inspirational and creative thoughts with a bit of creativity to-do lists.

The third book is for art journaling because of course I had to try out the new paper for my art.

Midori Travelers Notebook & Lucky Brand Purse

Midori Front Book for Journaling

Midori Journal, Gorjuss Die Cuts

Midori Journal, Gorjuss Die Cuts

Midori Book Cover, Monster High

Midori, My Little Pony

I decorate the inside of my books for fun. I love original art characters and fun cartoon characters.  The bright pops of color inspire me to use it daily. I always smile as I flip through the pages. They showoff my inner child.

What type of books / journals do you carry?

I would love to read more about other styles and brands.

Hugs,

Anna

A Little Artwork For The Midori

I'm having an insomnia night.

I laid in bed staring into the darkness for hours.

Watched art journaling you tube videos on mute; so not to wake anyone else.

Finally I gave in and retreated to the craft room with a cup of coffee.

I did a little journaling in my Midori and decorated a few pages with stickers, paper tape, and die cuts. I've been adding little bits and pieces of love to this book for quite some time now. I carry it with me everywhere. It is the best all purpose little book I've ever found. I absolutely love it.

I have a little plastic sleeve in the front that's been empty since day one. 

I knew that I wanted a little piece of artwork for the space.

Just a cute little rough sketch.

However, I didn't want to tear a page from my sketch book or art journal to do it; 

and these books usually take priority over doodling on scrap paper.

Tonight however, I am in full on decorating my little leather bound travelers notebook mode; and that space needed attention. 

Cuddlebug Cuties Jump Rope Sketch

I think the little jump rope cutie is adorable and perfect for summer.

I am so ready to get outside and exercise.

I think this little sweetheart, being in the very front of my book, might just help keep me motivated to move a little more when the weather gets a bit nicer.

 

I'll post an polished up inked image this weekend.

Hugs,

Anna