Rules when recording family video's

So recently Chris and I have been going through old family movies so we can get them backed up on our computer. When you are copying movies to a computer, you just have to let them run their course. No fast forwarding or skipping stuff. So we had to watch everything. Throughout this process Chris and I came up with some vital rules to follow when taping and event or party.

1. When at the zoo, don't worry about what the animals are doing. You can see that animal anytime at any zoo. What is your kid doing while watching that animal. Their faces just might be more fun to watch then that tiger pacing his cage.

2. If you want to record your wifes baby shower, that is great. But don't get her opening every single present. It was boring for the guests the first time and will be for you and whoever has to sit and watch it with you the second time.

3. No one cares what your Christmas decorations look like. You won't even care what they look like in a few years. You see the same Christmas village every single year when you pull it out for your celebration. It is already in your head and no one else cares what it looks like. Now, if you want to show them off, have someone stand in front of that tree and do something. Others will be able to see the tree while watching someone do something entertaining.

4. When you are at a social event, get a few seconds at everyone that was there, you might wonder who your friends were later in life.

5. Before you start taping something new, always check to make sure that you have a clean tape or spot on your current taps to record onto. If not you just might recored over something important.

6. If you are lucky enough to own your own camcorder, get it out more then a couple times a year. Your family is making memories and you will want to remember them. That expensive piece of equipment is not meant to just look pretty on top of that shelf.

We learned all of this the hard way. Maybe someone out there reading this will take my advise and make sure they never make the same mistakes that we have. I know I am going to be better about camcorder do's and don't.