It does feel different, and I admit that I'm not entirely used to it either, in as much as I've yet to write anything personal in it (then again, I've never kept a diary), though I have written quite a few personal exchanges in it. That way, with the proper Charms and Wards, the journals are a quicker way of communicating with people than using Owls or the Floo system.
And it looks like they're great for the local businesses to advertise their products and services.