Reader Under The Spotlight - Jordan

Hi all! I'm J, maybe better known as thecrazylifeofj and sometimes just plain old Jordan. I work for a small non-profit in Chicago, try to be outside as much as I can, and do my best to keep up with my crazy boys: Brian (the human aka boyfriend) and Frankie (the dog). When I'm not working/reading/sleeping, I try to write as much as I can about anything and everything over at my blog.

1. When did you buy your first Filofax and what was it?

I was a late Filofax bloomer, so to speak. While I remember seeing some Filos in a retailer years ago (and being shocked by the price), I didn't buy my first Filo until November 2010. It was a personal gray Domino.

2. What other brands have you used or considered using?

I've used most of them: Franklin Covey, whose inserts I love but binders I hate, other generics, and one called Blue Sky, which I used up until Filofax came into my life. I loved that it was a bound book, but just couldn't get the flexibility I needed from it.

3. Out of the organisers you own which is your current favourite (Style and Size)?

Sorry to the Domino, but there is no competition here. My Crimson Malden (personal) is without a doubt my favorite. I actually haven't even lusted after another binder since he arrived!!!

4. How many Filofax organisers do you own?

Sadly, just two. Although I am so happy with the Malden I really don't need anything else. Maybe a wedding Filofax someday (I hope!)

Oh, and I did just get my best friend her first Filo (a personal Pink Finsbury) for dirt cheap as her graduation present! Not that she isn't worth the money of a full priced one. I'll have given her the binder by the time you all are reading this-- I'll update you on the reaction!

5. What do you use your Filofax for?

EVERYTHING! It is seriously my lifeline. I use it for daily planning, notes, gratitude list, weather tracking, work and personal to-dos, bill reminders, blog planning, to read and watch lists, I could go on and on and on and on!!!

6. What was the feature about Filofax you like most?

I can't narrow it down to the feature, but a few of my favorites have to be: the beauty and quality of the covers, the rings!, the flexibility they offer, and the opportunity for me to be creative with my planning.

7. If you could design your own Filofax what would it feature?

Ooooo. It would have the Malden leather and ability to lie flat out of the box, HUGE rings (duh), a small button to change the color anytime I want, notepad pocket, and a secretarial pocket. Oh, and a leather smell that would never fade!

8. How do you carry your Filofax?

Most of the time my Filo is in my handbag, which changes constantly. At work or home, it's always open on my desk. Since I keep my ID and credit cards in it as well, I've carried as a sort of “clutch” from time to time as well if I don't feel like carrying my handbag.

9. Which Filofax in the current range do you like the most? Are you going to buy it?

I love a lot of them. I think the Osterley in Plum is divine. I'd also not mind having a mini or pocket Malden as a wallet- I'm still kicking myself for passing up a $30 pocket Amazona I saw in New York. And something has always drawn me to the regal look of the Finchley. But since I am saving for a few other things, mainly paying off my credit card and then a Kindle to celebrate, I don't see myself getting anything new anytime soon.

10. What is the most you have ever spent on a Filofax? Which model?

That would be the Malden. But even then, I got it for $79 and had an additional 10% off on top of that! Even when I splurge I'm cheap!

11. Turning to Philofaxy, what do you like the most?

I'd have to say the fact that this is the only place where people don't find my obsession with my planner crazy! I honestly can't make people understand how awesome this community is. So thank you guys for the friendship. I wrote a while ago how I was amazed that something as simple as a Filofax has sparked a worldwide connection. A connection between the genders. Between races. Between religions. A connection between strangers who have become friends. Even though I haven't met the majority of you all, I feel like I have been a part of this community forever. Now, one of us just needs to win the lottery so we can have a worldwide meet up!

12. And what do you not like about Philofaxy?

The one and only thing I don't like about Philofaxy is this question! Because how could anyone find something to NOT like?!?!

13. What was the last music album CD you bought or downloaded? 

That would be Zac Brown Band, You Get What You Give. They are a country band (a genre I usually don't care for) but they are amazing!

Thank you Jordan for agreeing to go 'under the spotlight'. Great picture, taken through the viewfinder of your new camera by the look of it.