Here I am thinking that all the photos, games, and misc data I have backed up on CD-R is perfectly safe.

Turns out, these cheap CD-R have only a two year average life, according to an IBM expert. The more expensive ones will last up to 5 years longer than the cheap ones.  

The music CDs and movie DVDs you purchase in the stores are pressed rather than burnt and should be around for your great grand children.

The whole story can be read @ http://www.theage.com.au/news/cameras--videos/burning-for-the-long-haul/2006/06/14/1149964545127.html