As we've mentioned here, one of the best ways to find time for journaling is simply to be prepared. It's become a habit with me. If I'm ready--even if it's just to do a simple pencil or ink sketch--it makes it EASY to journal, even in tiny bits of time.
Have your art supplies with you, even if that means a very small, simple set of paints and a waterbrush or two--and of course, your journal.
I've sketched this view more than once--I like it, tucked between the railroad tracks in the distance, our supermarket, and the biggest car dealer in town. A little triangle of country in the midst of town!
I often opt to sketch while Joseph grocery shops...works best for both of us, since I tend to impulse buy and J. reads alllll the labels. Sketching is GOOD!
 |
| This was the little set I was using, but since it's a year later it looks much more used than it does here! |
This time he just had to get a few things, so I knew I didn't have long. I laid in large areas of color to follow the shape of the hills and railroad right-of-way and then later, when I got home, got out my lovely little gold-nibbed dip pen. It's tiny and fits in my travel kit easily. (In order to use it comfortably, I stick that shortie handle in a section of cut-off drinking straw!)
 |
| Joseph found this one online and bought it for me, so I'll have a backup! |
I reconstituted the colors that had dried in my palette, made them a bit more intense, and drew in the details--a suggestion of trees in the background, the mown grass, and a few weeds up close. FUN.
Still later, I added a few notes that will bring this special day back to me.
I seldom do a whole page at once, but add a bit here and there as I have time or inspiration. If I had to search for my materials or hoped to do a whole journal page at once, I'd never get as much done as I do! Bite-size pieces!
