Many years ago, my father in law was in a major car accident. My wife swung by the office to pick me up and the whole family to include the dog headed out to the hospital. Hours later, we arrived at our home exhausted and drained to a vandalized home. What they didn't take they destroyed!

We lived in a quiet upscale neighborhood but it happened.

We had insurance but for what? Really, when you think about it what's in the hall closet, the cabinet, the desk? Sure you'll remember a couple of items but months after you've turned in your claim you'll remember the real treasure that was there - too late!

Tragedies occur every day! The lesson to be learned is to take a camera once a year and photo the home, open the closets, drawers, etc.  and shot photos of everything!

Years ago I wrote this for a publication and suggested that you take the roll of film (remember?) and put it undeveloped in the freezer. Most freezers would survive a typical fire. That publication paid me a minimal sum to republish that article for several years.

By today's standards the idea still works just upload the photo's to a photo web site. Cost is minimal only a few moments of time, the savings in frustration alone can be immense.

As then, I suggest you do this annually. Pick a date and do it every year! My date was always Independence Day. Independence from at least one area of potential stress!