Hello!

As some of you may know, I assist Joanne by moderating the Bible Journaling Jumpstart social media groups, as well as locating artists to feature on this website. I thought it was time to introduce myself and share my own Bible Journaling story here!

I am a mom of two sons and grandma to four boys and two princesses. I was living in Georgia, until about 6 months ago, when I returned to my home state of Michigan. Since my children, and grandchildren live here, I wanted to be closer to them and more involved in their lives. It has been a great decision, especially during the Covid-19 Pandemic. I have also found Bible Journaling to be a comfort during this time of isolation. Reading scripture, illustrating in my Bible, and just reminding myself that God is always with us!

I had never heard of Bible Journaling until 2015/2016, when Joanne began sharing her then book in progress, “Bible Journaling Jumpstart, the Complete Guide to Bible Journaling”. I knew immediately this was a game changer for me! My spiritual life, and art, have always been a vital part of who I am. So, I was very excited to learn that I could incorporate creativity into studying the Bible. I soon began following artists who were doing tutorials on different techniques and methods of Bible art and Bible journaling. Subsequent to “The Complete Guide To Bible Journaling” being published, Joanne began talking to me about the companion website that she was working on. I was so honored when she asked me to assist with the website, and social media, for Bible Journaling Jumpstart. I felt in my heart that God had led me to this point!

In addition to being a moderator for the Bible Journaling Jumpstart Facebook page, I research Instagram for Bible journaling and scripture artists. One of the most enjoyable things I get to do is select artists to feature on this website. Joanne is such a generous individual and she loves the opportunity to give new, and seasoned, artists more exposure. Many of those in the Bible journaling community also have ETSY shops where they sell digital images of their work. These are usually set up to provide the buyer with several images to go with a specific scripture. This type of downloadable art is great for people who are new to Bible journaling. I have enjoyed using quite a few of these alternatives by printing them on sticker paper. By far, my favorite way to create faith art is with watercolor. Although lettering is not my strong suit, I still enjoy stamping and using my own handwriting over watercolor backgrounds. More recently, I have found memory-dex or “faith-dex” cards to be a great addition to my Bible journaling process. I love designing the front of these small 3.25in. by 4in. cards and then writing scripture on the back!

I hope that you are all finding Bible journaling to be a source of comfort during these challenging days. If you are not already a member of our Bible Journaling Jumpstart Facebook page, please consider joining! I hope to see you there!

@biblejournalingjumpstart
@fellowshipbydesign