Make Your Own Time Capsule

Suggest that each family member write something that’s on their mind. Maybe their hopes and dreams for the future or something very important to them in present time. You can collect pictures, a small knick-knack that means something to you, a picture your child has recently drawn – in short – whatever is not too large but meaningful to you and suggest that each family member contribute something of similar sentimental value.

Schedule a family gathering, maybe a backyard barbeque, to ensure the whole family is present for the occasion. Collect everyone’s contributions and place them in a plastic coffee can. Should you have a large family or have more contributions than one coffee can is able to hold, you may want to consider using 2 plastic coffee cans. Make sure you use plastic coffee cans, since metal cans will rust over the years and destroy the content inside!!! Once the items have been placed inside and the can has been closed with its lid, use any kind of tape around the length of the lid to seal the can and keep moisture out.

Once the can is sealed, wrap it inside a garbage bag and tape any lose edges of the bag to the can. Repeat this process by placing the can in yet another garbage bag for extra security.

Now it’s time to dig a hole. Hopefully one of your family members owns their home, so that you may return to the site in a previously agreed upon number of years. Don’t forget to either mark the spot where you buried your time capsule or place it in a location easy to remember. All that’s left to do, is cover the capsule/coffee can with at least a foot or two of soil and leave it there undisturbed for at least 10 years.

When 10 years are up, schedule another barbecue and ceremoniously retrieve your family’s very own time capsule. Watch long forgotten memories rise to the surface and bring smiles and maybe even a few tears of joy to the faces of those you love the most.

Memories are priceless. Surprise your family with a gift they will thank you for today, as well as tomorrow.