These are a glimpse into our bookshelves that house the boxes I use to save and store ALL of the kids' papers and projects they've EVER brought home.  Nathan has 4 boxes – one from 3 year old preschool, 4 year old preschool, Pre-K and now his Kindergarten box.  I think he will need at least two boxes for Kinder.  This is Will's first box. I just can't bring myself to throw any of their creations away – even a scribbly paper! 

I know that there are several methods out there for keeping and organizing your kids' school papers, including throwing most (or all) of it away.  I just can't do it.  My little obsession with keeping everything, however, has finally paid off.  This evening on the way back from group violin lessons Nathan asked me if I saved any of his work that he brings home.  I cautiously said, "yes…why?" (not sure where this was going!).  He then asked me if I remembered his little apple book he made earlier in the Fall.   Again, I told him I did remember that.  He told me that he wanted to get it out and read it again.  I was so thrilled!  I know I've got that book in his Kindergarten box! 

I happily told him that I of course had it and that I save EVERYTHING he brings home.  I also told him that he has three other boxes from preschool with stuff.  He was stunned!  He then asked me if I would please promise to save everything from his school until he gets to college.  Then, I was the one who was stunned!  I told him that I would try but we would just have to see how it all plays out.

So for now, I'll be fetching that apple book he wants to see.  This totally validates my hoarding of their school stuff – for now.