The Family Binder

I have an old book ("PLANNED, PREPARED AND COMPLETED SINCE THE WORLD WAR") called The Lincoln Library of Essential Information. Something of a precursor to an encyclopedia, this book contains what was considered the essential information of the time all in one volume.

I think of a Family Binder as much the same thing. It is one place where all the family's essential information can be found, quick and easy.

A family binder might include:

Appliance information (model numbers so you can replace parts and the size of the vac bags);

auto maintenance log so you know when you last changed the oil, rotated the tires and when it's time to do it again;

Babysitter sheets allowing you to leave quick and complete instructions about food, bedtimes and emergency phone numbers;

Birth Certificates, Passports, Car Titles, Deeds -- or if you're worried about putting them in the binder, put a copy of them and a note in the binder, indicating where they are actually located

Computer logins and passwords

Emergency Information -- names and numbers for those most important people

Food Storage Inventory

Gardening Logs -- what did you plant, and where, and did it grow? What annuals do you like to use most, when do you like to plant your tomatoes and what variety works best in your soil?

Grocery Lists -- pre-printed forms help you never forget something and make going through the store quick.

Important Dates so you don't forget anniversaries or birthdays

Travel Packing Checklists and Itinerary forms to make trip planning a breeze

This is just a start to the many things a family binder can contain. They have valuable information and even more mundane (how to start the lawn mower and what size are your tablecloths). The binder should be kept in an accessible, yet safe place and will quickly become well-used!

(I have created forms for many of these and other sheets. They are available, including a personalized cover sheet, for $5 by emailing me at livelifeorganized23@gmail.com. Please include the name you want on your cover sheet.)