MON AIDE-MEMOIRE

Since I am always finding scribbled notes in my handwriting, that have a tendency to gather in odd corners around the house, but which magically seem to disappear when I really need them.  I decided the other day that, being a paper and pencil kind of a girl, I would make myself “un aide-mémoire”. A paper extension of my memory in the form of a nice chunky journal.

One that I couldn’t possibly lose - a collecting place for all of the haphazard and miscellaneous facts, quotes, definitions, ideas etc. that I am sure I will want to remember, but am equally sure that I will forget, if I don’t immediately write them down - a place to keep the flotsam and jetsam of a curious mind. Actually, since schooldays, I have always found that I am more likely to remember something if I have written it down - perhaps my memory is in my hands:-)

So from now on I am going to make a note in my aide-mémoire:
- of the fascinating looking book that I read the great review of, but can’t for the life of me remember the title of, when I am in the bookstore,
- of the times the movie is showing that I really would like to see, but probably won’t get around to going to because I’m not sure when it’s on,
- of the great quotation that I wish I had said, and am positive that I will want to use at some point in the future, such as “Be yourself, everyone else is already taken”. (Sorry, but I forgot who said that. If you remember, do let me know and I’ll make a note of it).

The longstitch binding pictured here was the result of my creative efforts today - let’s hope it doesn’t remain blank for long!

Comments

[Karen Wallace]

Hilary,
I have just got back from a visit to the bookshop where I couldn't remember the complete title of the book and only the first three letters of the authors surname! Oh to have such a book with me at all times...

It is so gorgeous that I am sure toting it around won't be a chore.

[Hilary]

Hi Karen, thanks for getting in touch. I know the journal is not everybody's idea of portable, but I wanted a lot of paper space and I also wanted it to last quite a long time. It's reassuring that you have the same problem at the bookstore - I do that all the time!