Confession: I have always had a “thing” for paper and pens. I remember going to the “dime” store when visiting my grandmother and browsing the office supplies aisle. Index cards, memo pads, notebooks, colored pencils, awesome stuff galore! I coveted and pined for it all. And, now, some (cough, cough) years later, I still do.

Don’t get me wrong, I love the idea of a paperless office and I adore trees. I support recycling and sustainability.

And, yet, there is nothing quite as heavenly as the union of a crisp, clean sheet of paper in a new notebook and a nice, fine-point, free-flowing ink pen. I know, it’s almost sinful, but also, divine. Such a moment is filled with anticipation and hope; a fresh start and unparalleled possibilities.

I started my business with paper and pen. Named my children by writing dozens of names over & over. Meet with clients and sketch out plans in my notebooks. Wrote numerous poems and letters to loved ones. Log my walks. And, jot down reminders to buy vitamins.

Here are some of my personal current favorite paper and pen supplies and how I use them:

Small notebooks and writing pads: I use these for shopping lists and notes I make when away from home. I know I could send myself a text message, but where’s the fun in that? I keep a notebook and usually, too many pens in my purse and when I have waiting time, I make notes. Or, if a great idea or a to-do item comes up, I write it down. These lists and pages usually get moved to my calendar or my idea file. These are also handy for keeping things like what size shoes your kid wears, what the windows in the guest room measure, or the size of your AC filters. Things you need to know when you are away from home.

Medium notebooks – 5 X 8 sizes: These I use for journals or writing ideas. Or, I assign one to a particular project or group and take it to meetings to take notes in. I usually write the project or group name on the front with a permanent marker.

Large notebooks and legal pads: These are for business and writing projects. I usually corral them into a planner or portfolio or even a lowly clipboard. Most of these I will usually transcribe into the computer at some time, or tear out the sheets and file. I usually keep one of these with me when I am watching TV so I can make notes during commercials or if the program is boring.

Permanent markers: I have them in every color. They are great for labeling files, writing garage sale prices on stickers, writing labels on plastic storage bags, and even covering scuffs in black painted furniture!

Fine-pint gel pens: I love these! They write so smoothly. I’ve been a fine point ink pen fan for as long as I can remember, and was so happy to finally find fine point in a gel pen that I bought quite a few. They are very affordable, too.


Here’s the notebook I keep in my purse. Any writer, note-taker, list-maker, artist or well, just anyone is likely to fall in love and become one with their very own! Makes a great gift!



And, here are my favorite pens.