Dear Editor:
That was an excellent article of journaling, but I would like to emphasize the importance of using a notebook made with quality paper. After my father passed away last year at the age of 95, we found his journal that he kept during World War II. He wrote down his thoughts as the plans for the invasion of Japan drew near, as they entered Tokyo Harbor for the surrender, his visits to his Japanese counterparts and their families, the worry about whether they would be attacked as they went ashore, and countless other glimpses into that time. Much of the rest of it concerned his duties as an officer, including details for the ship’s crew voting in an election and who was on what watch.
As we opened the notebook and turned the pages, his journal went from a nicely bound notebook to a collection of loose pages as each page cracked at the binding. It was so brittle with age that we can only scan it in order for others to read it. Had he used (or been able to afford) a journal made with quality acid-free paper, this family treasure would have been enjoyed first hand by future generations. I consider my small stack of acid-free journal notebooks to be an important part of my long-term preparedness. I use a fountain pen with archival-quality ink (made by Noodler’s Ink) to make sure that whatever I may scribble in my journal, it will survive the effects of time for future generations to perhaps learn something from. – Stephen in Florida
JWR Replies. That is sound advice. My only reservation is that fountain pens can develop mechanical problems and leaks. I recommend simply getting a small supply of Micron pens charged with archival ink.