Heading into Spring cleaning with fervor? Here are 10 creative ways to organize favorite treasures and share memories of the previous year or farther.

 

 

1) Create a Scene

– Save bits of a special vacation or activity inside a glass jar. Note highlights on paper or use ticket stubs, confetti, shells, sand, or cutouts.  At the end of the year, review favorite moments, photograph your scenes, then start a new jar.

2) A work of Art

– Create a bit of art or jewelry using a photo, child’s drawing or another memento.  Many sites offer ways to preserve a special moment in time for use in a functional, wearable, or artistic piece.  This sibling photo was enlarged and printed on fabric for making a pillow.

3) Make your own home videos or audio recordings

Of the many gifts that can be passed to children and grandchildren, few will be as meaningful or as impactful as the sound of your voice relaying what you feel is important to pass on.

4) Create your Own Site

Create a personal website, YouTube, or SoundCloud site to share photos, video, or audio with only your family or friends.

5) Memory Jars

–Display bits of beloved nature, a bird’s nest, or treasured item in a glass jar or cloche.

6) Create a Shadow-box

– Frame a short story or poem about a meaningful event.

Include memorabilia to honor a loved-one.

Maps can give a sense of place or movement.

7) Write Them Down

Keep a Journal or Notebook.

Insert photos or drawings that describe the story.

8) Use social media

Gather favorite photos and related short stories of your year.

Share them on Facebook, Instagram, or Tumblr.

9) Display Old Documents

Family history documents can make an eye-catching wall display, especially against a dark wall.  Envelopes and postcards yellowed with age, handwritten vintage letters or cards can be framed or arranged unframed.

Just be sure to use color photocopies rather than the originals.

10) Toys and Games

Find toys and games you played with as a child. Display them and write about your experiences with them.

Tell us:  What are your favorite ways to reveal hidden memory treasures?

Need help? Submit Your Comments, below. 

• Professionals, like me, are available to help you get creative with your legacy stories and items.
• Participating in group memoir workshops lets you hear what others are remembering and nurture your own memories.