Living Thing

Subtitle: The Box

"I have been collecting junk for "some day." I don't really have a vision for it other than I'd love to see your take on how to put it together. I would love to treat it (this journal) as a living thing where I could write little things or add tiny bits as I continue to collect additional joy." Emily Finnerud 

I put my 13th joy journal in the mail to Debbie C. just yesterday...and I'm looking forward to sharing more about it.  Here's a glimpse at her cover....I especially love the vintage belly band.

I have a new set of papers junk (using the term affectionately) from my goddaughter Emily...and at least one more set of papers coming in the mail from Julie! Emily's journal may end up being my biggest challenge so far....so I've been watching junk journal YouTube videos to help me think outside of the box. 

Emily included food labels and other packaging as well as a whole pile of fortune cookie fortunes. There are some practice painting doodles which I'll tell you more about in another post and lots of seemingly random kitchen and household stuff.....all meaningful to Emily in some way....or at least interesting to her. For whatever reason...she saved these things. THIS will be another unconventional materials challenge! Maybe I need my own show...I could call it Project Joy! Make it work! (Project Runway fans will get that!)

Like with Cherie's pile...there's not a lot of base papers to work with to create the actual book...but I know for sure it can't be scrapbook paper or gelli prints for this one. 

I knew I would find just the right materials in my stash....and knew I will figure it out. But then just today I had a visit with Patty down the street...and because she had interest I talked through my challenge and told her what I thought I was looking for. She had JUST what I needed to propel me forward to make this living thing for Emily. (more later on that) I'm excited about this one! I think I say that every time....and I really mean it every time.

Emily literally included a Ramen Noodle box. Now I'm thinking outside of the box as I figure out what to actually do with the box! I've got this! And it's a good distraction and counterbalance to the chaotic and scarry world.