The List...

I'm finding myself having "Senior Moments" on a fairly regular basis. I'm still pretty good with names, dates, phone numbers, etc. But sometimes...maybe a little TOO often...I forget something relatively insignificant. Like...why did I get up from the chair? That's probably a topic for another entry...

I've ALWAYS been a list maker. I can't remember ever NOT having a least one or two lists in-play. There's something VERY satisfying about striking-through an item on a list I create in Microsoft Word! I don't use a sharp #2 Ticonderoga and a yellow legal pad anymore. OK...I couldn't always remember where I left the pad. I can ALWAYS find my PC...most of the time!

I've created a "Pre-Departure Checklist" to insure that Prime Time and her crew will be fully prepared to leave Kemah, TX on December 1, 2006 to go cruising. It's not like we're taking a space shuttle up to the space station, but we want to be prepared. My list is divided into the following categories;

Maintenance - I list every major system (Engines, Generator, Watermaker, Windlass, etc.) that requires routine maintenance and make sure that from a preventative maintenance perspective everything is up to date.

Spare Parts - I've inventoried all of the spares that we have for the major systems on Prime Time. I have established par levels for all spare parts, and make sure that we are covered. Little stuff like light bulbs, tools, fuses, etc. are also listed on the spare parts inventory. I don't want to have to worry about NOT having something.

Projects - We're upgrading some of the equipment (boat toys!) on Prime Time. I've listed each of the projects (for example...new printer shelf), identified who will be doing the work, order the new equipment, etc.

Administrative - Sell cars, change cruising area on Prime Time's insurance, notifying everyone, etc.

Personal - New passports, doctors appointments, banking, attorney, CPA...you get the idea...

OK...that's how I'm trying to get organized. I've NEVER liked surprises...even birthday parties! A whole lot of "stuff" will happen while we are out cruising...some good...some bad. I'm just trying to keep things stacked in our favor.