New to this

I used to keep a journal.  I have 20 of those 5x8 fabric bound books that I would put my thoughts in.  One even has my "art" in it. I enjoyed the process of writing - to see how I could manipulate the language to try and express my thoughts in what I thought was eloquent.  I still enjoy writing, I just don't do it now.   
My first journal was one my parents gave me when I was about 10.  Typical diary style with a lock and generic key.  It had a unicorn on the cover and I loved it.  It seemed so private to me.  My siblings were intrigued by it.  They wanted to know what was in it and I tempted them with all the "secrets" a 10 year old could possibly have that were written down in there - really it was nothing.  One day, I opened it to write and saw that they had written their names in it.  Stupid.  I immediately marched downstairs and triumphantly showed my parents the proof of their sins.  I am sure my parents were laughing even as they punished the offenders. 
As a parent, I would be rolling on the floor!
As a parent, I have little time to write on paper - my books keep being stolen by my children for their art.  And I am of the school that writing should be available to those who would read it.  I don't expect a following but knowing that it is "out there" will make it more real; more worthwhile.   
I remember my mom telling me that she burned her teenage diaries.  All I could think of was that it was a waste.  I wanted to know that I was not alone. 
Maybe someone will read this and know that they are not alone either.

Belinda