For some of us, keepsakes have to be easy or no keeping happens. My method requires 1) a pen, 2) paper, 3) a box. I simply scribble notes (see ideas below) and drop them, dated, in the box. Someday I may whip these choice scraps into an archival masterpiece, but probably not. I'd rather sprawl on the bed and read with my kids — no chronology, no calligraphy, no pressure.

What you'll need:

How to make it:

1. Measure all the sides of the box and the lid. Measure the decorative paper or artwork to fit each panel of the box, 1/4 inch smaller than the margin on all sides. Cut the paper to size.
2. Cover the back of one paper panel with glue. Glue the paper panel on the box, smoothing from the center out. Repeat with the remaining panels.
3. Using the grid on the back of the Con-Tact paper, measure and cut Con-Tact paper panels the same size as the box panels.
4. Peel off the backing, and one at a time, place Con-Tact paper panels over the decorative paper or artwork, smoothing from the center out. Do the same for the lid. Cut a slit in the lid's center if desired.

Originally published in Wondertime magazine.