WHEN IN DOUBT, SCRAP IT! For many of us, memories remind ourselves of how and where we spent our time on this earth. They include a series of stepping stones along life's road that reflect lessons learned, personal growth and relationship-bonding that shall never leave our souls. By capturing every precious moment, we recollect more clearly on how our lives have changed over the decades. Such special keepsakes include photographs, letters, cards and travel souvenirs. Individually, each one of these objects impact us in a special way. Major events such as graduation, marriage, childbirth, and holiday celebrations are moments worth capturing. Even small things like collecting autumn leaves and glimpsing at a rainbow are events that can melt our hearts. Several years ago, I began the process of creating personal scrapbooks detailing major and minor events of my life. In these overstuffed volumes, I have collected everything from wedding napkins and invitations to theater ticket stubs and travel brochures. It is my way of fully appreciating every good moment that has come my way. For example, I have top favorite music lists from the mid-1980’s, Chinese cookie fortunes, favorite cartoon strips, theater and cultural programs, as well as various newspaper clippings of interest. I have even taken the extra step of marking precise dates on each memento so that I can relive each nostalgic moment. Creating a scrapbook is a continuous project as we enter different stages of our lives. The pages of your book can center on family events, phases of friendship, and milestones that have been reached. Include anything that touches your heart in some magical way. A scrapbook should be a reflection of who you are personally. For example, you may want to showcase childhood accomplishments like academic achievements and term papers or vocational keepsakes such as corporate newsletters and company awards. Another big area to look into would be favorite pastimes. Let's say that you are a lover of poetry. Whether you compose it or simply enjoy reading poetry, you can include your own literary pieces as well as works by famous writers. If you are a cooking connoisseur, you could photocopy recipes of your favorite meals to demonstrate your cuisine tastes. Whether you have flowing or variegated themes, colors and designs is up to you. There are no set rules on how to create a personal scrapbook. So before you decide to discard that next cookie fortune or musical program, remember that down the road, it could become a valuable sentimental piece. I can attest to this fact. If it weren't for my years of scrapping, I would have a huge gap of chronicled memories and my life would feel one-dimensional without them. Of course, there are some moments that don't require a keepsake as a stimulus for recollection. Yet, there's something wonderful about the sight of a friend's home-made Valentine card that seems to warm my soul. Or the family photo collage that brings us closer together. There are numerous things to collect for your personal scrapbook without any limits on what to include. You can custom-design the book to fit what ever suits your fancy. Whether your style is simple or elaborate is up to you. Be an artist and have fun with this ongoing project. They also make great gifts for loved ones and friends because they are so unique and personal. You never know who might stumble upon your treasured keepsake. It may even become a family heirloom some day!