hey Vicky
I used Microsoft Excel and Word extensively in my job but I wouldn't pay for it. OpenOffice is free and works the same. I just started using Google Docs for notes or recipes I want to save. I like it because its available on any device you have Google on and you don't need to be online. If I had my garden journal on Google sheets I could take my tablet out to the garden with me and add notes.
I agree with Weedwacker using ground soil for seeds is not a good idea. The soil could be harboring all kinds of bacteria/ fungus that prohibit seed from sprouting. Plus it compacts when put in pots. If you have no other option take some leaves and grind them up in your food processor til really fine. Bake the soil in the oven to kill fungus, and mix the soil and leaves together. The leaves will help to keep the soil friable and help feed the seedlings. Its not ideal but its better than all soil.
