elements to cc

Hi.  Have been using Elements 12 for awhile.  Due to freeze up issues etc. I have moved all images off pc onto ext. drive and uninstalled E12.  From here--I am going to go to CC.  Much tagging, etc has occurred inn the past years, do not wish to lose it.  Must I reinstall E12, repair catalog etc, THEN upgrade to CC?  Or can I just download CC and get my pics back--WITH tags, etc?

Thanks,

Pat Shockley