Age group(s) for this celebration activity:
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School
Middle School
High School & Beyond

Description of this celebration activity:
There isn't a better time to preserve memories that will last a lifetime or at least the next 10, 20, 50, 100 or even the next 1000 years.

Setting up and preparing for this celebration activity:
1. Get yourself a time capsule. "Official" time capsules are available through mail-order catalogs, web sites, and most major department and warehouse stores. But you can also use containers from around the house. A 2-pound coffee tin would work or a 5-pound popcorn tin (that you may have received as a gift) can do the trick. I bet even Tupperware or Rubbermaid containers would stand the test the time.
2. Put in a few of your favorite things. What should you actually put into the time capsule? Anything you want. Photographs, newspapers, a crisp new dollar bill, your favorite CD-ROM, a list of your favorite TV shows, a pay stub, and your predictions for the future. Saving grocery receipts, the phone bill or your favorite restaurant menu are fun too because of their current prices.
3. Mark the outside of the time capsule with a "DO NOT OPEN UNTIL....DATE".
4. Store in a cool, dry place like your basement, attic or closet.

Other suggestions or comments:
Every member of the family could write a short or long letter telling things about themselves. Start off with your name, address, phone number and age and include your likes, dislikes, future plans, what you are grateful for, what kind of person you hope to become and what you really want to achieve in this lifetime.