Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Dotting the ( i ) Yi Yi

Have I mentioned that I'm a list maker? Well, I am. At any given time, you'll find anywhere from two to twenty lists of good intention lying around this joint.  I have lists on the refrigerator, lists by the door, lists on the computer, lists in my Bible, lists in my purse...

resolution lists, project lists, repair lists, grocery lists, 
fried lists, boiled lists, list gumbo...

Yep, I'm the worlds greatest list maker. The problem is that I'm also the world's worst list keeper. Half the time, I can't even keep up with the list itself. That's why I have twenty. Ten of them are restarts.

Exhibit A would be the 101 list lurking over there on my side board. I made the list and the commitment when I first started this blog.  It was a list of 101 items taking up space in the Innie Paradises of my home. I committed to either use, repair, restore, repurpose, recycle, or retail them in 101 days.

The deadline was 44 days ago, and no, I didn't finish.  While I am pretty proud of the things that I did accomplish, there are still 10 items remaining.

 I have made a new list:  10 Things to Deal With in Ten Years. 

I think it's doable.

The Duchess, the Farm Sister, and I have a little list game that we like to play together. At the beginning of every month, we create a list of projects or things that we plan to accomplish by the end of it. At the end of the month, we gather again to keep each other accountable.

The Duchess usually puts about 25 projects on her monthly list, and she generally conquers them all. The sister has more of a cultivated list. She gives a great deal of thought to her items and selects precisely what she can and will accomplish.  She's organized like that. I think it comes with age.  By the way, have I mentioned that she's 51... and I'm not?  

I never finish my monthly list. Really, in all the years that we have been playing the list game, I have always managed to come up at least one accomplishment short.

So much for accountability.

Today is the first of February, and we're gathering to go over the lists. As usual, I'm not finished. Personally, I think I should get extra credit for the little valentine blocks I made on Monday and the coffee filter wreath I made   started on Tuesday. Unfortunately, in List Land there is no reward for random acts of senseless crafting.

Most of my items had to do with moving The Practical One to Washington DC, but I did accomplish a few things beyond that.

Whipped up some yellow pillow covers for the porch 
and planted a bunch of yellow pansies

I was only responsible for planting them, people.
The list said nothing whatsoever about making them grow. 

I deep cleaned the kitchen, including all cabinets, the pantry, 
and The Big Black Thunk.  

Here's that after shot I promised



And here's the mirror that was on the list as well. 
You can't tell in this picture, but it has a pale  yellow glaze. 


There were a several other items completed, but I have neither the pictures nor the time to take them. Did I mention that today is February 1st, Deadline Day?

So you can see why my Valentine tablescape will have to wait until later in the week. I've considered posting my upcoming list for February. You know... to keep me accountable. Think it will work?


What about you?
Are you a list maker?
And what's more...
Are you a list finisher?
Any tips for finishing a list?

48 comments:

Terra said...

Debbie, this is a great post, funny and serious at the same time.
Oh yeah, I am a list maker, but you have many more lists.
I combine all my lists in to one.
I like your accomplishments in yellow, such a cheerful color.

Terra said...

Oh Debbie, I forgot to say that I live by post its. I tape a post it to my longer lists for when I am out and about. I recently posted a review of post its on Amazon, I like them so much. How could one live without post its? Ha ha!

Barbara F. said...

I am really bad...I make grocery lists, and forget to take them with me to the store! I love how you are working your color for the year. Your porch looks beautiful. Planting pansies already? Wow! xo

Sue said...

Love it ~ I am so with you on this one. I have many lists, I even have a section in my planner named "lists", although only a fraction live there. I think you did an awesome job for January. I love everything you did ~ such a burst of sunshine!
I love what you and your mom and sister do, you have such a fun family:-)

Ann said...

Like Barbara, I write grocery lists, then leave them home. Sigh. Otherwise, I'm more of an "outline" type person. I establish a goal, then write down the different steps to achieve that goal, in an outline format. If A, then B. If not A, then C or something like that.

It never keeps me on target, but uses up time to create.

Maybe I should go to the basic list making: 1. Clean House. That would be the only thing on my list.

Cheers!

Debbie said...

I have always wanted to be a "list maker", have intended to be a list maker, and yet have NEVER been. I have made lists only when I am soo busy and overwhelmed planning some big event, I just have no choice. And they have always been really helpful which makes me wonder why I don't do it all the time...I love your pillows. This is going to sound like a REALLY dumb question, but when you are making them, do you buy a form pillow and then just cut the fabric the exact size of the pillow, or do you add an inch or so all the way around, or what??? I have made several pillows, but seriously I just never quite like how they turn out. Just wondering... : ) btw, sounds like you had a very productive January! Have a good day...HUGS

Angel @ Finding The Inspiring said...

Oh, I like to make lists alright but, just like you, I tend to "misplace" them. :) Oh well...we get things done eventually right?

BTW, love your pops of yellow on the porch. So inviting!

Debbiedoos said...

I just started with the lists Debbie. That is only because I am forgetful now. I used to be able to remember everything. LOVE your yellow pillows. Today I am cleaning and organizing and my fridge now looks like yours!

Susan Nowell @ My Place to Yours said...

Well, of course, I'm a list maker! (And yes, I even add things to my list that I've done that didn't make it to the list in the first place; I don't know why 'cause I realize that makes absolutely no sense!) You should see the lists of themes for my new shop, Sally List projects (which I've been marking off), "stuff" I'm getting rid of, books to read, blog posts to write... (and the list goes on). I also have a list of craft projects I'd like to do, but those will have to wait until I get my de-cluttering done ... which reminds me, I've got paper-themed items to LIST in my shop this week, so I'd better get busy! Yes, I WILL finish my list! (Some day.)

Always Nesting said...

Yellow is one of my very favorite colors so I LOVE the cushions and pansies. Count me in as a list maker. To do, grocery, Costco, daughters' needs, Steve's honey do, you name it I can make a list for it. I make a list first thing in the morning of all I need to accomplish that day. If I don't I will fritter away my time and the list keeps me focused. I have till 4:00 when hubby gets home, not that he cares at all how I spend my day. After all, I am a princess.....:)

At The Picket Fence said...

"Random acts of senseless crafting"...LOL! I love that Debbie! :-) I'm definitely a list maker but run into the same problem you do which is that I end up having lists about my lists. Or I think that somehow by rewriting my lists I am accomplishing something! I wish I had some tips but alas, I forgot to make a list of them. ;-)
Vanessa

Bargain Decorating with Laurie said...

Oh yes, we are long-lost sisters. I make lists (lots of them), and when it's time for accountability, I can't even find the list! That pop of yellow color looks so pretty on your porch. I give you an A+ for accomplishing that, and that refrigerator definitely deserves an A+! I don't think my fridge has ever looked that good! Congratulations! laurie

Anonymous said...

Debbie,
I live by my lists! I finished my one for today and threw it away, but I always have one on the bathroom mirror, we have a house projects one, I have a Honey Do list up all the time, a running grocery list, etc.
Sometimes when I am having a day of over-accomplishment, I will add additional things that I did to the list, just so I can cross them off!

Denise at Forest Manor said...

This post definitely rings true for me. I am a list maker, but usually not a finisher. My Mom and my sister though -- just like yours. I'm impressed with how much you DID accomplish this past year. I saw lots of posts about painting, furniture re-finishing, crafting, and yard sales. Whew, I'm tired just thinking about it all. ;)

I loved your new touches of yellow on the front porch. You picked a nice, cheerful theme color for this year.

Thanks for sharing!

Denise

Renée said...

Who cares what you get done on your multiple lists as long as you keep writing and entertaining your blog friends. Let the Duchess and Farm Sister work away...I just like it when you play!

PS the porch looks sunny and deliciously Springy! Way to go girl....

Lynn said...

Absolutely lovin' your yellow pillows, such a fun and cheerful welcome! And the lazy Susan in the fridge is brilliant! Might add that one to MY list... if I ever clean it out:@)

Tracy said...

love the post...and by the way, I live by lists as well and the compulsive side of me has to make the lists and I'm compelled to cross things off; it's what drives me!

Chatty Crone said...

Questions first - did you say there was a pale yellow glaze on the mirror? How did you do that?

I agree about the planting - only be responsible for the planting.

Love your pillows and the ice box.

Okay - you sound exactly like my daughter - she writes the list, loses the lists, and rewrites the list - except for her - she doesn't get things done. lol

I used to write a list - long time ago - and if i didn't have everything finished I would work until I did - daily lists.

Now - nope. :)

Love, sandie

Janettessage.blogspot.com said...

I am not a "write out" list maker...mine are always in my head, so no one knows if I finish the list or not. Well I did write out a list the first month of January on my blog...life hit, and I accomplished only half...but at least it was half.

Now girl you have been busy and I now say your post is inspirational....I return the favor after you said my "potty" post was inspiration...you were busy!!!!!!! Your "done list" is better than my "potty" repair...so I want to see your list and exchange.

Patting you on the back...way to go girl friend...and that type of accomplishment would reduce anyone's blood pressure...oh I am 51!!!, be nice to us, you are only steps behind.

Hugs...have a great weekend.

Shug said...

Oh my goodness.....YES, I have always considered myself the "Queen of List." No kidding, I have list everywhere. Books of list! I sometimes have to thumb through pages or books to locate a list that I intend to complete..Ha! I thought I was the only one who did this..
hugs

Yellow Rose Arbor said...

Yes, I'm a list maker, always have been! Just made a honey do list for dh today too!

Love, love the yellow pillow covers on the porch! You are making me want to do some too! Also love the pale yellow mirror and the peek at the bedroom!

That fridge looks great!!

Katherine

http://bitsandpieces-sonja.blogspot.com/ said...

oh yeah, I'm a list maker too, but I often leave my lists and my coupons right on the refrig, my desk or safely out of sight in a drawer... I do have immediate lists, and then long term goal ones, and about 100 others on a running list in my head. See... we should get points for all the effort of trying to compile and remember that the things listed even matter!

I love this... "in List Land there is no reward for random acts of senseless crafting." That's where I end up many times, random crafting, none of which was ever on a list. Some people might even call that our creative streak! :)

I love your finished things, and the yellow is making itself known in 2012... porch looks great!

Denise said...

You know I'm a chronic list maker. Some are permanent (typed - to be reused weekly or monthly or packing lists etc), some are annual (like resolution list and Christmas needs for next year) but most are daily or monthly to do lists. A little obsessive but it seems to be the only way I can function. I guess they will come in handy helping me in my OLD age!

I just looked at your 101 list and I think you did a fantastic job. If you managed to finish 91 items in two years surely you can complete 10 in 10 years! You'll probably finish the last 10 this year.

Love your porch redo! Maybe the Duchess should call you once a week and remind you to water the plants. Would that help make them grow?

Hope my refrigerator looks as good as yours by the end of the month. Thanks for the inspiration!

Denise said...

We did let you have partial credit for a few items on your January list. Just sayin'...

Anonymous said...

Lists? You bet! Little ones, big ones, on post-it notes and legal sized canary yellow pads. I usually head the page "To Do:" and then bullet a series of items - in order that they ought to be accomplished. By the end of a week - I might get through half - slow but sure wins the race. Currently, too overwhelmed with the amount of "to-do's" on my list so I am working without one. We'll see how that turns out.l

As to my flowers in my Pinterest post - peonies. And, yes, I'd dress in clothes like that everyday if I could. Right now, though, winter means turtlenecks. Today was an exception - 60 plus as a high. But, it IS only Feb. 1st . . .

Joy!
Kathy

Sue said...

I am giving you an A+ for all that you have accomplished, Debbie! I am so impressed! I too am a list maker, and find that i lose the list, and then start another list to which I have added more projects and then lose that list, well you know what I mean. ~smile~ Looking forward to your Valentine Tablescape.
Enjoy your week.
Hugs,
Sue

FrouFrouBritches said...

I feel ya, Debbie. I have accomplished absolutely nothing, with the exception of one new dress for E. There just aren't enough hours in the day, ya know? And I can't imagine how bad I would be if I had to work full time. I get nothing accomplished working only 2-3 days a week.

Your porch looks wonderful!!!! And I totally think your Valentine's craftiness should count for an accomplished goal. Maybe you could scribble in "holiday decor" on your list, even if it is just so you can count it.

elizabeth said...

What you got done looks good, if that's any consolation! I pray over my day and my list of to-do's each day...that's the only way I keep my sanity!

Dayle ~ A Collection of Days said...

I'm a list maker. Seldom does it get ticked off properly though. We're kindred spirits.

Tanna said...

Debbie, I think you should add writing wonderful posts to your list of things well done!! You just crack me up, girl. I make lists too... I find that having the things I really don't want to do on the list doesn't improve their odds of getting done... they just keep moving on to the next list. Grrrr...

I think you have done great works this month!! The yellow on the porch, the mirror and the fridge all look great, too!! blessings ~ tanna

no spring chicken said...

I think the problem is with the lists themselves. You aren't fooling me. I've seen (and envied) what you accomplish time and time again!

So then, maybe it's just who you hang around with... dump the duchess and give me a call. I'm great at making people feel superior! :[

Shanee said...

I am with ya girl...I am a list maker too. I make a daily list and try and cross off as I complete things. It makes me feel productive even if some of the things on the lists more fun than work! I must admit though when I am working my daily list and I get to something I don't want to do I cheat...and make a new list! DO NOT POST your list, you will never hear the end of it! lol Love the yellow. Thanks for sharing.

The Tablescaper said...

Great post! I too am a list maker. List finisher? Well, sometimes. Isn't it funny how great it feels to cross things off that list!sometimes I'll come across an old list and read down it and realize I actually completed everything (but usually there are one or two things still lingering).

Love, love, love the pops of yellow on your porch. Why don't you link to Seasonal Sundays this Sunday?

- The Tablescaper

Denise said...

Thanks for this post. Yes, I am a list maker.

The Polka Dot Closet said...

Yep, I'm a list maker and a list finisher. I have a brother that is 13 months older than me and I love rubbing that in, especially the one month where he is 2 years older than me! LOL

Carol

Crickit said...

I really like the pops of yellow on your porch.

I do make lists but not to the extent that you do. If I don't make them I wouldn't remember what I needed to do next.

Is that what happens now that we are 50?? Lol!

Blessings!

Sharon said...

I am a list maker to the max!

1. I think it helps me keep organized.
2. No, I don't usually finish my lists.
3. I'm better at daily lists than long-range lists.
4. I especially love making my shopping list - I put the grocery items all in separate little areas on the paper, according to the stuff that's found in the same spot in the market
5. I really enjoy crossing off the food with a big black Sharpie pen as I go
6. I hate misplacing my lists - (unless I can use that as an excuse to not finish them)
7. Maybe I need to make a master list listing my other lists?
8. Tried to list the many, many reasons I love Debbie -

Ran out of paper!

XO

Maryann said...

My husband would be the list maker in this household and when we can remember where the list is we are pretty good about getting everything done on the list. The only lists I make are for groceries and I forget to bring it with me half the time.

Savannah Granny said...

You are so funny, Love the lists. I make lists but lose them, then I forgot what I had on them and can't reconstruct.
Just play dumb that might work.
Hugs, Ginger

Mary said...

Oh it's so good to know someone else makes lists of lists and lose their list(s)! I have lists on my phone, a yellow legal pad with me at ALL times, and have been know to grab a napkin out of my side door of my car to jot 4 or 5 things down while I'm driving down the road! And I NEVER finish things on my list, which is the beauty of making a new one :)

Love your pop of yellow pillows & your pansies ♥

Christine said...

I;m laughing because you make a game out of your lists with your family. LOL

Not a real list person. Never can find a pen.

Francie...The Scented Cottage Studio said...

Sigh, I always have great plans to MAKE a list. I figure I'm ahead because since I don't have a list I'm not behind.
Your list of lists and what you HAVE accomplished has made me so tired I have to put my feet up and rest.
(())

Mevely317 said...

Oh my gosh, I'm a compulsive list-maker!!! (As opposed to complete - er)
DH seems amused by these notes, which is down-right infuriating since he can function just fine without them.

I've had more than a few chuckles when I come across one in the pocket of a suitcase or last-year's sweater pocket.

Chuckling is such fun! Just part of the reason I love coming here, Debbie!

Nikki (Sarah) said...

I knew I really liked you Debby. You're a total kindred spirit. I'm a list maker too and drive myself nuts with things I think of that I want to accomplish. I've tried to turn the lists into prayer goals. Sort of works better for me cause then I can let them go. When I check back I love that some of those goals have been done and I can put a check mark beside them.

Hey...love that fridge...It looks super clean.

Kim@stuffcould.... said...

You have a clean refridge...always beautiful colors too. I want to keep lists but I never write them down...trying to keep them in my mind is not working

Kathleen said...

I see some room in your frig. Can I bring some stuff over? Mine is overflowing. I am expecting an army! Not, but it looks like it!
Have a good week. The sun is out here, cold, but not 10 like we had last night. It's Feb, and NY, so I can deal with it!!

Manuela@A Cultivated Nest said...

I make lists and then forget to look at them - including the grocery shopping list!

Love the yellow pillows!

Linda @ it all started with paint said...

Oh, I would fail miserably at your list game! I make lists. Lots and lots of lists. Little pieces of paper and post its and chalkboards filled with things to do, projects to complete or start, things the kids need, school deadlines, plays and performance dates, and b-day parties ... and I'm exhausted just writing this! And, of course, all thing "blog" lists ...

And thanks for stopping by my blog and leaving such a lovely comment!

Linda
http://itallstartedwithpaint.com

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