Sometimes, putting thoughts to pen and paper works better than using an electronic gadget. Write (or draw) the old-school way with these items.
Noted luxury
Some notebooks are for special occasions, like the handmade leather journals from Rogue Journals. Made in Tennessee, the journals can be completely customized to include exterior embossing and an interior dedication page. A talisman can be added to journals that have a strap. Paper is handmade and acid-free, with several types available. Most journals are made to be one-time-use keepsakes, although the company does carry refillable journals. Medium backpack journal, pictured, $38, www.roguejournals.com
More Top Picks Best Ice Scrapers
Never-say-die pen
A pen that runs out of ink in the middle of writing or drawing is frustrating. Seltzer Goods teamed up with a Swiss pen-maker to create the Seven Year Pen. By increasing the size of the ink supply inside the pen, the company says scriveners can write 5.5 feet a day for seven years. Pens come in several designs to make them fun and functional. $7.95, www.seltzergoods.com
The planner
Electronic calendars have their place, but sometimes it’s better to be able to look at the big picture. Planner Pad is designed to improve organization by funneling activities and devotes a two-page spread for each week. The top section lets the user organize business and personal activities by category. The middle section allows users to prioritize daily activities, and the bottom section is the appointment book to schedule meetings and the like. The “executive size” is $29.99 and is 8.5-by-12 inches. It comes as a spiral-bound planner or with loose-leaf pages. Other sizes and versions are available. www.plannerpads.com
The traveler
Trips are made for journaling. The Nomad Travel Journal from Hello Traveler has fill-in sections to help you keep notes of your favorite places out of town. Entry sections make it easy to remember to record the date, location, traveling companions, travel method, accommodations and other important details. A few back pages contain an index section to help you search the journal easily. There’s also a version without the prompts for travelers who want to take their own detailed notes. A case is available for an extra $12. Journal has a hardback and is 5-by-7 inches. www.hellotraveler.com