Why The Golden Notes Project Exists

The Golden Notes Project started with something I’ve seen as a mother and felt myself: how often “I’m fine” really means “I don’t know how to say it yet.”

Each journal is meant to feel like a soft landing. A place to write, draw, or just sit with a thought, with no pressure to get it right.

It isn’t therapy, and it doesn’t replace professional support. It’s a creative tool that can make it a little easier to notice what you’re feeling and put it into words. And every journal sold helps put more journals into the hands of teens through donations, outreach, and growing partnerships with youth organizations.

Every order comes with I’m Fine. Just Kidding., an A5 hardcover journal packaged in a branded Golden Notes box.

The journal is made in two halves:

• The first half has guided writing prompts for the days you don’t know where to start.

• The second half is open pages for writing on your own, sketching, doodling, or whatever helps that day.

It also includes:

• A playlist QR code with music picked for when things feel heavy

• A yellow ribbon bookmark to hold your place.

Giving back is part of this project from the start. As The Golden Notes Project grows, our goal is for a portion of every journal sold to go toward:

• Donating journals to youth programs, schools, and safe spaces

• Building partnerships with local organizations that support teen mental wellness

• Creative journaling workshops and community events

We’re at the beginning. These relationships are still being built, and we’ll share updates as they happen.

If you’re part of a school, nonprofit, or youth program that could use these journals, email info@kimlayn.com. We’d love to be one of your first conversations.

These journals are for the quiet ones. The ones who always say they’re fine when they’re not.

That’s why one of our goals is to let teens help shape them. In the future, we plan to open a call for teen artists about twice a year, with selected designs featured on limited-edition Golden Notes covers.

Each featured artist will be credited by name (with permission), have a short note from them printed inside the cover, and receive a free journal. It’s one small way to make sure the teens this project is for get to be seen, too.

If you’re under 18:
If your design is selected, we’ll need permission from your parent or legal guardian before it can be published or sold. Please have them complete the Consent Form for Minors .

The first open call for teen artists hasn’t opened yet, but here’s what we’ll be looking for, so you can start creating now. When it opens, we’ll announce it on Instagram at @kimlayn.art.

What we’ll ask for:

• Ages: 13 to 19

• Format: Digital art, scanned drawing, collage, or photography

• Theme ideas: Healing, hope, identity, self-expression, or anything that feels real to you

• Size and layout: A5, vertical orientation (we’ll format it for print)

• Include: Your first name, your age (optional), and a short message or quote of 1 to 3 sentences

If your design is selected, it will be featured on a limited-edition Golden Notes cover, and you’ll receive a free journal and a feature on our website and Instagram (with permission).

Questions before the call opens? Email info@kimlayn.com with the subject line Teen Design.

Is this therapy?
No. The Golden Notes Project is a creative journaling resource. It is not therapy and is not a substitute for professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. It offers simple creative tools that can help teens reflect and put their feelings into words.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 in an emergency.

Who is the journal for?
Teens, especially the quiet ones who always say they’re fine when they’re not. Parents, family members, mentors, and youth programs are welcome to buy it for a teen in their life.

Can I order journals for a school or youth program?
Yes. Email info@kimlayn.com with your organization’s name and how many journals you’re looking for, and we’ll talk through options.

Who will receive donated journals?
Our goal is to work with nonprofits, schools, and youth programs to place journals directly with teens. These partnerships are just getting started, and we’ll share where the journals go as they happen.

Can I get involved or suggest a partnership?
Absolutely. If you’re part of a school, youth program, or organization that serves teens, email info@kimlayn.com. We’d love to be one of your first conversations.

Is there a Spanish edition?
Yes. Estoy bien. Es broma. is ready for print. For updates, email info@kimlayn.com.