[AfterMyNap]

One of "my" kids is to be married Saturday and my gift to them is a journal in which I've assigned them to write each other any personal note at least once per week. I will "refill" that journal throughout their lives (or till I croak).

For those who have been married for at least several years, my question is whether this seems like something you'd be pleased to have at this juncture in your lives.

What say you, spousal types?

My inspiration is entirely from my own experience in journal keeping and how much I've enjoyed writings from my own parents.

[Kitty]

Well, you know I was married so I still feel qualified to answer this question.

I would have loved something like that. My DH......not so much. He wasn't the type to write stuff down. He'd speak it.....but forget about writing it. I think it had alot to do with his job and the fact that he had to write grievances for employees all the time.

This newer generation might be different. But even if just one of them keeps it up and writes in it faithfully every week it'd still be a nice keepsake that they could both enjoy years down the road.

I think it's a good idea!

[hollym]

You may have actually given me an idea. I've been married for 17 years and this could be a cool project. Is this one journal that they both write in? Is it supposed to be just a note or do you respond to the note from the other party? I'm thinking that for me, no responses should be allowed.

This is really interesting. It could start new conversations that don't revolve around the house, kids, work, finances, etc.

[Jomar]

I think it really depends on the couple... you could add if they don't write in the journal {or write together about their day ??}
- but if they don't write they have to do special loving things for each other

[AfterMyNap]

Thanks all, I'm hoping it will be a tool and a toy for them. The idea is that they both write in the same book, to one another, about anything they want to say. Long, short, tears, laughter, all of it.

[ewizabeth]

The way we are now, it would be great. We went through some very tough years though, and I'm not sure either of us would like to look back on some of our entries. So, I vote yes and no, lol.

[Aarcyn]

Sorry Cindy. I am a dissenting voice on this one.

I love the idea and it has special meaning to you because you did it and your parents did it as well.

It just does not transfer to the current generation. People do not write nearly as much anymore. The computer has changed all kinds of communication.

So with that in mind and knowing my own children in their 20's, it would be a lovely thought but not used.

I am not hear to hurt your feelings. I just wanted to give my reaction.

[donnap9]

I've been married for 39 years and feel most woman think a journal is a great idea, but the reality for men is very few are interested. I have three married son's and found a wedding present that they both would enjoy was the way to go. Congrads Donna AZ

[AfterMyNap]

No harm, no foul! I did ask for input and I appreciate every bit of it.

I know these kids and they're both in professional communications and love to write. If this concept ever had a chance with any couple, this one is as good a candidate as any.

I don't care if all they do is write jokes to each other, or come up with some dumb game for it. I doubt they'll be rigidly faithful to doing it, but I do believe they'll give it a good try. We'll see.

Cyn, you might be surprised by how many younger people are very, very involved in journaling. I'm amazed! I'm a member in a few pen collectors' groups and am wildly impressed by the number of younger people who adore to write in a cool notebook, guys as much as the gals.

The bride has kept journals over the years, her mom and aunt do as well.

Wiz, give it a couple more decades. You two are awesome!

[Kitty]

Originally Posted by Aarcyn

It just does not transfer to the current generation. People do not write nearly as much anymore. The computer has changed all kinds of communication.

That's exactly why I like the idea. Gets them away from the computer. Makes them actually think about what they write (no backspacing to erase in longhand!). I think it would be a good tool to use for couples......it'll make them stop and think about what they want to write.

Thinking back I so wish we had done something like that. What I wouldn't give for a journal with entries made by my DH. Right now I have cards for various occasions but I was lucky that he signed his name!