Traditionally, a time capsule preserved documents until they could be discovered by someone in the future. In your own life, you can use time capsules in much the same way: to preserve records about your life to share with future generations. This way, your great-grandchildren will never have to say, “I wish we knew more more about Grandma and Grandpa.”

What should you include? Here are 10 time capsule ideas to help you get started.

1. Letters –  What would you like to say to future generations? What stories can you tell them about your life and the activities you enjoy? Write it all down.

2. Photographs-  Share photos of your wedding day, the first time you held your children, other special events, and random snapshots of your daily life. Sometimes those simple moments of laughter and joy are the most cherished photographs. Don’t forget photos of your pets and your house, your street, and your town. Future generations will enjoy seeing how it has all changed by the time they open the time capsule.

3. Newspapers –  This could be from any day of the current year, or if something big occurs while you’re gathering your time capsule ideas, you can include the paper from that day. News or pop culture magazines are also a good idea.

4. Objects That are Important to You –  If you can stand to live without it, you might choose to include a souvenir from a special vacation, a piece of jewelry, or another memento.

5. Tickets and Invitations –  If you attended a major event, like a popular festival or presidential inauguration, or saw a world-famous speaker or musician, include the ticket or program. Add invitations to family weddings, graduation receptions, or retirement parties.

6. Technology –  When you upgrade your phone, save your old one. Fill it with photos and videos, and include it in your time capsule (with a charger!). This will be fun not only because the people who open the capsule will enjoy the photos and videos, but because they will be able to marvel at the old-fashioned cell phone–who knows what they’ll be using by then!

7. Books –  This could be your favorite book or a book that is especially popular this year.

8. Food Packaging –  This sounds strange, but look at how much a Coke label has changed over the years. Include the packaging from an iconic or a favorite food or beverage.

9. Family Tree –  This is especially nice if you’ve done some genealogy research and intend this capsule to be opened several generations down the road.

10. Predictions for the Future –  This is just for fun! Write down what you think will happen with technology, politics, and your own family.

Making a time-capsule is a great way to pass on a legacy to future generations, and to preserve your family history!