Years ago, someone gave me a hardcover blank “My Garden” journal. It sat there for years and when we moved 5 years ago, I decided to start using it as a record for my new garden. It’s now a hodgepodge of notes from articles/books I’ve read, garden ideas, sketches, things to remember, etc. At the end of each season, I sit down and write my observations from that season. I tell which shrubs I planted, what worked, what didn’t, lessons learned, things to remember for the next year, things I’d like to try, etc. I have to say that I love it because I can look back and see how my garden has evolved and remember small details (like the exact names of plants you purchased and from where) about my garden. At the beginning of each season, I read what I wrote the previous fall and I have a ready made game plan. I love the internet, but there something wonderful about sitting down with a coffee or glass of wine and reading my garden journal. I never have to look around for notes or try to remember where I put things. I do have a small notebook I take with me to talks at my local garden club, but everything else goes into the my journal. If you are an avid gardener, you put your heart and soul into your garden. A journal is a great way to look back (and forward) at all you’ve learned and accomplished. It also reminds you of things you never should do again!