Our last filing cabinet had had enough. It had made the move several times, each time getting more and more banged up. It found its final resting place in a land far away from where we are now. Time for a new one. However, 2.5 years later, we have only just replaced that old filing cabinet. Many of my important papers had a home – my trusty household management binder – but those papers that would best be stored away have only had a pile for a home. This post, and one or two more this week, will serve as a primer for me in the upcoming weekend. Maybe some of you have found yourselves in my position: lots of papers, but no filing cabinet (or system). Here are some things I have been gathering for the coming “File Fest”.

• Filing cabinet. I just bought a wood-like one from Target at half-price! Some people also like the boxes or accordion files (depending on where you are in life).
• Hanging files. These rest on the metal arms inside each drawer.
• Tabs. Putting your papers away does no good if you don’t know where to find them later. Always label your folders.
• File folders. Within each hanging file, you may have a need to separate papers further. File folders are great for organizing each hanging file.
• Pen or label maker. Pens are old-fashioned, but effective. Label makers can be purchased inexpensively now if a neat, uniform appearance is important.
• Block of time. Schedule yourself an appointment with the filing cabinet.