PudaBearStudio

So why notebooks, specifically the themed kind that I create? I have many notebooks that I've filled over the years and there is not much difference among them on the outside (it's the inside that matters more anyway right?). What I found happening though is I wasn't really inspired to pick my notebook up to plan and journal regularly, which like most things, you need to be consistent to get the real value. So during one of my mind's wanderings, I decided to try to spend some time creating notebooks that give that inviting feeling. They draw your attention and inspire engagement. Beyond that, there are several deeply personal reasons and I will try to explain the thought behind the collections below but please keep in mind each can be used in any way you see fit, the important thing I've found, is to have a notebook that inspires you to engage with it and I hope among the many I've designed you find one that speaks to you. If not, I'll keep trying.

Initially I started with the 'Inspired by..' collection as I was trying out new AI tools and was really captivated by the output. I have always been drawn to fine art and having the ability to interact with AI to keep true to the artists I've been most inspired by was so fascinating to me that I carefully curated this collection of notebooks to pay homage to their unique talent. It was important to me that they "be" the center-point.. many of them lived in obscurity with some of the same mental health challenges that have plagued me throughout my life. In short, I attempted to represent the faces of the household names that all lovers of fine art know. After many printings, I've settled upon the final versions included in the "Inspired by.." collection and hopefully these notebooks will inspire you to pursue that meaningful purpose, whatever it may be, that unleashes your creativity.

The second collection I developed was the "Destination" collection as this has always been a fulfilling part of my life to see parts of the world from my own small town vantage point. These travel notebooks are meant to be inspiring for those also compelled by wanderlust. Each worldly city prominently displaying a key feature and well known landmark that symbolizes the reality that you've made it here and includes the warm "Welcome to.." on the front. On the reverse there are Iconic Sights, Delicious Local Bites, Unforgettable Moments, and some travel suggestions to make your visit more enjoyable. These keepsakes are great for affixing pictures of your visit and very importantly, including the stories, thoughts, feels, that you have during the trip. These memorable visits deserve a treasured place in your home (there's likely a lot going on in your phone already) and this is a perfect place to memorialize these life events.

The next collection I worked on was the "Vibes" collection which is near and dear to my heart. Life gets pretty heavy for all of us. Sometimes to a nearly unbearable level.. I've been there and unfortunately spent too much time there. This collection and how I use it is to jot down funny stories, jokes, and things that generally bring a smile to my face. Pictures with the backstory including all of the weird, quirky details. The point is, when life gets very difficult, I hope you can pick-up one of these notebooks and just know that whatever you are going through does not define your life, you've had good times, you will have good times in the future. Be grateful for the joy you've had and if this notebook can remind you of that, well that was what was intended.

From there I believe it was the "Basics" collection which was meant to just be a minimalist notebook that pairs well with any of the other notebooks in my collection sharing the same color palette as the "Vibes" collection. I will typically carry 3 notebooks at a time because each has a different theme, these however capture any other information like to-do lists, random thoughts and ideas, etc.

Next was the "Be Bold™" collection which highlights a very striking cover meant to remind you of some positive or funny phrase. The thought is when you pick up this notebook, it is meant to focus your thoughts on an aspect that you may need to remind yourself. There are 3 specific notebooks in the "Cancer Awareness" collection that are deeply personal to me. Throughout my cancer treatment, there have been times where I have felt alone in the journey. Looking at the notebooks I continue to fill with the words, 'Never Give Up' and 'You Got This' prominently shown on the cover gives me daily encouragement to continue fighting for my health. When I open it up and see the thoughtful words from my therapist, or those from my doctor, it is the encouragement that I need and gentle reminder that I don't fight alone. I fill mine with pictures, poems, bible verses, and intend to write some letters to my loved ones in case I'm not here someday to tell them how much they mean to me.

Then there is the "Of These 3" collection of notebooks which focus on 3 main themes of Christianity - faith, hope, and love. A deep study of each of these themes can show the interconnectedness and reveal the beauty of God's plans for us. There is plenty of room for bible study notes, sermon notes, prayers, and stories that demonstrate how God is working in your life.

I continue to develop more collections and have many ideas that I'm excited about, if you've read this far, thank you. I hope you will be inspired and if you can support my store I would be so grateful. My deeply held belief is now more than ever, there is so much going on that sometimes our thoughts need a place to go.. I hope to make notebooks that will inspire you to engage with them daily and let your thoughts, plans, and ideas go there.

Sincerely,
Scott D.