Day 44: New Year's Eve

Today is typically the day I would go in my room to get some peace and quiet and brainstorm some things I hope to achieve this year. I would write them in a journal and probably look or think about them once or twice only to writing them again next year.

Not this year!! My secondary resolutions have all been thought out and babysteps to achieve those goals are on my TDL each day.

Anyone who asks me today what my New Years Resolution will be for 2011 - continue writing a To Do List every day! Based on that I know I can achieve my overall goals.

Get to it! Happy New Years! Be safe!

Friday, December 31
To Do List:

• Prep for New Year Get Together - (I have a list on my notepad detailing several TD's to get this accomplished!) -
• ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 2 - C (I am really starting to see changes in my body! Love it!)
• Read Dave Ramsey's article 11 Weird Things To Do in 2011 - C
• Run to grocery store for last minute munchies for the children tonight. (don't go without a list!) - C
• Enjoy family time! -

 I have family in town and they are priority the next few days!

Day 42: Blog Worth Adding to your Reading List

I have read a few of Seth Godin books. Love his blog and wanted to share: http://sethgodin.typepad.com/

On another note:
My post this morning has nothing to do with making TDL. It was simply a moment in my life I wanted to share.

My son said the sweetest thing to me last night. If I had to guess his profession today - I am going with motivation speaker. He is such a positive child.

Last night he was busy trying to figure out a game he got for Christmas. He was getting frustrated. My son struggles to continue something if it is too hard for him. I always encourage him to continue. I don't want to raise a quitter.  I said "Honey - You are smart. Don't give up and keep trying." Eventually he did get it. He turned to me and said "Mom you believed in me and that is why I got it. You always believe in me." Talk about a moment that makes your heart sing.

I love being a Mom!


Thursday, December 30
To Do List:

1. Post TDL on MMTDL blog. - C
2. Gym workout - C
3. Check out Seth Godin Blog - C
4. Send Jimmy facebook PowerPoint - C
5. Make a list of questions to as Ryan re: project - C
6. Write 2 thank you notes. (Agnes & Linda) - NC
7. Sister comes to town!! Lunch with the family! - C
8. Work TDL - C
9. Check against grocery budget
10. Make a list for New Years Eve (impromptu party at my house! It's going to be crazy. Mom, Dad, Sister and Family and all our kids playing Dance Central on the Kinect!) I am really looking forward to it!! - NC (doing in the AM)

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Chicken/Wild Rice & Broccoli
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -    C
5. Make Thursday TDL -  C
6. Any thank you notes to write? -  Yes!

Scheduled To Do:

1. Gym - C
2. Lunch - C

Day 41: Teachable Moments

Yesterday I was going to write about my Dave Ramsey Teachable Moment. Here it it - When I decided to do the Total Money Makeover I also decided to begin teaching my children about the value of a dollar. It is so important. I want them to understand clothes, food, toys cost money. I do not want to over burden them but a healthy respect is just that healthy!

Last week my son (he is 6 yrs. old) came home from school with a large tear in his jeans. He did not get this tear from falling on the playground! He got it from taking a pair of scissors and cutting a hole! Needless to say I was not happy. Rather than getting mad and yelling I decided to make it a very teachable moment! I thought about it and thought about it and then it was like a light bulb went off on what to do.

We had misplaced and recently re-found a $20 gift card my son had received for his birthday to Target. (see what happens when you get yourself organized.) We had talked about what DS game he was going to purchase. I convinced him to wait until after Christmas - because you never know what Santa might bring! He could not wait to get to Target to buy a game.

Well - the cut jeans happen!  I told my son he was going to have to use his Target gift card to replace the jeans and if any money was left over he could use it for whatever. There was only $2 left over. Certainly not enough for a video game.

As we walked back by the video game section of Target his eyes got wide! He ran from game to game telling me that is what he wanted to buy. I would say very nicely "you just bought yourself a pair of jeans."
He was not happy. He certainly told me life was not fair.  I know he will remember the next time he wants to cut his jeans because he is bored - it won't happen.

I must say it was hard - very hard for me to be so "mean". My Grandmother used to tell my Mom it's much easier to say "yes" than "no". She was right. It was hard not to say "just get a game" especially since he had been such a good boy all day. I could not lose sight of making the point.

Parenting is tough. Some may not agree with what I did but I want to raise a man who is self sufficient and responsible.  I think the "punishment fit the crime." I bet I don't have any more cut jeans!


Wed. December 29
To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Push 1 - C
2. Update workout in Wowy Supergym - C
3. Do survey online for Dr. - C
4. Call to let her know it is complete - C
5. Reschedule OBGYN Apt. - C
6. Work on DYS info. - 15 min. - C
7. Put away laundry (I busted out 3 loads last night!) - C
8. Wrap Gabriell's Bday gift -NC
9. Work - C
10. Send email to son's teacher - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Speghetti - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -    C
5. Make Thursday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? -  Yes!

Scheduled To Do:

1. Hair apt. - C (and got a new hairdo! It's cute!!)

Day 40: Making a Dave Ramsey Moment for my Son

No post today. Spending the day with my baby girl! Have fun and make your TDL!

The Dave Ramsey Teachable Moment to post on Wed. - Day 41.



Tuesday, December 28
To Do List:

• Read (1) article about blogging. - C
• Update blog.
• Put my ChaLEAN Extreme Burn tracker sheet in binder. Time for the Push Phase!!  - C
• Make a list of convenient banks to open my emergency fund.
• Take son to get a haircut. - C
• Birthday lunch for my sweet baby girl!!! - C
• Begin info. sheet on pricing, schedule and questions for new client. - C
• Think! What should I get my sister and nephew for their birthdays! - C and purchased for my nephew! Need to order my sisters!
• Reschedule OB/GYM apt. - NC (PRIORITY TOMORROW MORNING!)
• Work TDL - C
• Type up my Flylady Zone 5 changes - NC
• Paint my baby girls nails! She loves it & its her birthday! - We ran out of time today having fun! We can do this tomorrow!
• Make Hair Apt. - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Hubby Cooking!
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   C
5. Make Wed. TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? -  Yes!

Scheduled To Do:

1. Meeting - C
2. Lunch for Birthday! - C

Day 39: Back to a Somewhat Normal Routine

This morning it was back to a somewhat normal routine. I started the day off with doing my scheduled workout.  It felt so good to get back to it. I was very sore from playing the Kinect games with my children all weekend!  Thank goodness I have been working out for about a month otherwise I probably would not have been able to walk after Kinect boxing, track and field, adventures and soccer. Even when you are sore - just press play on the DVD player ore head to the gym and get moving.

Last week my sister sent me a message letting me know Chalene Johnson (if you read my health tab you will know she was the inspiration behind me creating this 365 day TDL challenge) is doing a 30 day to do list challenge starting in January.

I am thrilled and joined her group to be part of the challenge. I am really looking forward to her expert advice on how she creates, incorporates and uses a TDL. She is a very successful woman so I am looking forward to implementing her suggestions in my existing routine and to refine my daily TDL.  I will be blogging about it here.

If you are interested in her expert advice join the group by clicking on Chalene Johnson 30 Day Challenge.

In addition I will post on how I am changing routines or finding better ways to do things that are my time killers. I would love readers to share how they are finding those things that just never get accomplished and how you have taken control. Let's face it we can put anything on our TDL but if it does not work for us then it is pointless.

Let me give you an example:  I broke my ankle back in college and it is a weak part of my body.  I have tried running - seems like a great way to get in shape! Every time I start a running program my ankles just kill me and I stop exercising. Not good! I went out of my way to find an exercise program that would not irritate my ankles or knees. I found that in ChaLEAN Extreme. Now I have a program I CAN do. I can schedule  the ChaLEAN Extreme workouts on my TDL!

Let me give you one other example. One of my biggest time killers is laundry! From the very beginning doing laundry was put on my TDL. My normal laundry routine was not working. Either my laundry had to be rewashed because I forgot it in the washing machine or it was a wrinkled mess because I left it in the dryer. Most likely it sat in a laundry basket - maybe folded or maybe in a crumpled mess.

I first set out to do a load a day. This just dragged out the pain for me. Certain loads (towels/sheets) are OK to do a single load. Clothes - ugh! I learned I would rather bust it out.  It is going to stay on the TDL until it becomes as natural to me as brushing my teeth.

My Laundry Routine:
1: Clothing (dark clothes, light colored clothes and white clothes) - Busting out the laundry!

• I have four small laundry baskets - one for each member of the family. 
• Wash all clothing loads, dry and fold!
• Once all clothing loads  folded the baskets get taken up to the appropriate rooms.
• As the kids get their baths at night and get on pj's I go room to room and  put away the clean laundry.
• Ta da!! Complete.

2: Towels & Sheets

• I work the one off loads into my weekly schedule. I am sure to wash, dry and put away in the same day!

Laundry might not be a problem for some. It really was for me! Part of the issue was and is cleaning out drawers with clothes that don't fit etc. Be sure to keep cleaning out your drawers. Then there is always room for your clean laundry!

A Flylady tip: Cleaning out your drawers does not have to be done in one day. Schedule 15 minutes a day and put it on your TDL. Next thing you know...ta da!! Clean drawers!



Monday, December 27
To Do List:

• ChaLEAN Extreme - Burn it Off - C
• ChaLEAN Extreme  - Recharge - C
• Take 30 day photos (to track ChaLEAN Extreme Progress) - C
• Work with my son on learning to count money/change - C
• Update blog - C
• Read an article about blogging (I want to get better at this.) - C
• Straighten children's rooms (with their help) and upstairs bath - C
• Make a list of thank you notes we need to write. - C
• Make work TDL - C
• Review FlyLady's Zone 5 Cleaning List & revise to fit my home. - C (now I need to type it up.)

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Pork Chops, vegetable & rice - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   C
5. Make Tuesday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? -  Yes!

Scheduled To Do:

1. None

Day 38: Merry Christmas Weekend Con't

Sunday, December 26

To Do List:

• Keep enjoying the Christmas weekend with the family!
• Make Monday TDL

Day 36/37: Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

I just finished my last day of the Burn Phase of my ChaLEAN Extreme program! I worked out hard this week! I know tomorrow will be impossible to fit a workout in so I skipped my day off Tuesday and reworked the week to make sure I got all my workouts in!

Monday I start the Push Phase. I am going to begin writing down what I am eating. You become so much more accountable when you have to write down what you are eating. Helps keep you in check!

Off to enjoy the Christmas weekend! Have a Merry Christmas!


Friday, December 24 & Saturday, December 25

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 3 & Ab Burner (Sat.) C
2. Grocery store for hubby's list - C
3. Make stuffed shells - C
4. Get ready for family this evening! -C
5. Enjoy the Christmas Weekend!! - Ongoing

Day 35: It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

The countdown is on to the big day - Christmas!! The Spirit of Christmas is alive and well in my household!  I love it!  Having two young children that believe everything Christmas has made this year's Christmas all the more special. They love every ornament, every decoration, every Christmas storybook.

I love their sweet faces as they get up every morning and look for our elf  "Charlie". I love how excited they get when they bring home something they made in school for me and my husband. I love how they anticipate Santa's arrival and are working to be so good to ensure themselves presents under the tree! I love that they get the reason for the season!

With that said there are still things I need to do so I will keep to my trusty TDL to get everything accomplished! Without the TDL I know I would have abandoned any exercise program on such a busy week.

What is so great is that I can go into the New Year knowing I have successfully finished the Burn phase of the ChaLEAN Extreme program and beginning the Push phase! I know I will have entered a new year more organized!



Thursday, December 23

To Do List:

1. Laundry - 4 loads - C
2. Finish wrapping all gifts. - C
3. Work (1 - 1.5 hours.) - C
4. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn Intervals - C
5. Final touches on Dining room - C
6. Straighten basement -C
7. Make list of needs for Christmas Eve Dinner (hubby changed the menu!) - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. - C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   C
5. Make Friday/Saturday/Sunday TDL: Friday and Sat. - C

Scheduled To Do:

1. NONE - AMEN!! -C

Day 34: Sleep

No update for this Wed. I passed out from utter exhaustion at 8:00 pm! That is way early for me. I had to listen to my body and simply go to sleep.


Wed. December 22, 2010

To Do List:

1. Morning Work - Drop materials off to Schools - C
2. Work - additional 1.5 hours. (pulling projects together) - C
3. Laundry - 1 load (washed, dried and put away!) - NC
4. Wrap presents. - Started
5. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 2 - C
6. Schedule a date to call pedestrian (Thurs?) - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Hubby took care of it!
2. Refer to weekly calendar. - C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   C
5. Make Thurday TDL -  NC - doing on the AM

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off/Pick up School (last day for Christmas Vacation!!) - C
2. School Holiday Party (Parents Visit!!) - C
3. Evening work event  - C

Day 33: Busy, busy, busy

I am so excited!! I am a little over 3 weeks into my ChaLEAN Extreme workouts and today when I dropped my daughter off at my parents home my Mom said "You are looking thin." Whoohooo! The scale has not moved much but I am ok with that. My pants fit SO MUCH better,  I am standing taller, have way more energy and feel strong! I have not said one word to her that I have been doing the program!! My Mom noticed!!

With the hustle and bustle of getting ready for Christmas I am so glad to have my TDL! I scheduled my workout for 6:30 AM this morning and checked it off as completed!!  I never would have been able to do it today without having scheduled it!! Thank you TDL!!

Did you write yours today?


Tuesday, December 21
To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn Intervals - C
2. Returns at Walmart - C
3. Purchase cupcakes for bday party at school.
4. Work  4 hrs. - C
5. Wrap presents!! - NC
6. Ride around with the Children and look at all the festive lights!! - C & had a blast with the family!!

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Hamburgers
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C & PM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   C
5. Make Wed. TDL -  C

Scheduled To Do:

1. Meeting at 8 - C
2. Drop off/Pick Up - School - C
3. After school activity - C

Day 32: TDL Challenge!!

Monday, December 20, 2010

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 1 - C
2. Revise workout schedule to fit in Christmas. - C
3. Work TDL - P! - C
4. Volunteer TDL - P! - C
5. Send out additional Christmas cards. - C
6. Write needs for Christmas Eve. - NC
7. Write "what I am out of" to pick up at Grocery Store. -C & picked up!
8. Work - C
9. Update Blog. - C
10. Pick up hidden Christmas gifts from Mom & Dads - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Ravioli (ended up eating left overs last night.)
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) - PRIORITY!!  
5. Make Tuesday TDL -  C

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off and pick up from school. - C

Day 31: A Month of To Do List

I am a month into making my TDL everyday. It has made such a positive impact on what I get accomplished.
I cannot even begin to express how less stressful life has felt this month because I am being proactive in getting things accomplished. Sure things will come up suddenly that will take priority - when all else is complete and in order those things won't be so hard to get accomplished.

My next steps in making my TDL:

Now that I have been creating a TDL everyday I am going to begin revising how I write the list.  At first I simply sat down each night and wrote a list of what I needed to get done the next day. If you are just beginning my advice would be to simply start the habit and do just that - write a list of what you want to accomplish that day. Make it a habit - part of your everyday routine.

I am taking my TDL to the next level and looking a week out. There are certain things I can schedule or anticipate by looking a week ahead. I am going to work on developing this list for my personal needs.


Saturday/Sunday December 18 & 19th:


To Do List:

1. Laundry (3) loads - Wash, Dry & Put Away - C
2. Finish Dining Room TODAY! - C
3. Work 2 hr.s - C
4. Post Office - Send Gifts to Relatives! - C
5. ChaLEAN Extreme - Burn It Off - C (I have 1 more week in Burn phase!!!)
6. Update workouts in Wowy Supergym - C
7. Buy wrapping paper for children's gifts from Santa - C
8. Update blog - C
9. Make work TDL - Moved to today.
10. Make volunteer TDL - Moved to today.
11. Gift for Godchild - C
12. Begin wrapping Christmas Gifts (Low Priority) - Started!
13. Review Flylady's Zone 4 list and revise to fit with my home. -NC
14. Wrap gift for work party. - C
15. Review Christmas Gift list - just be sure I did not forget anyone! - C
16. Take back sweater to Target. - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Roast with Vegetables & Ravioli
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   
5. Make Monday TDL -  C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - n/a

Scheduled To Do:

1. Work Christmas Party - 6:00
2. Church - C

Day 30: Setting the tone for the Day!

It has been close to 3 weeks since I started my program to get fit. My workouts have been going fabulous! As of this morning I am down 6 lbs!!  I am scheduling workouts on the TDL first thing in the morning! This really sets the tone for then entire day. I feel so good about working out that I make better food choices at my meals.

I have noticed an increase in focus and energy throughout the day. That helps me cross the other TD's off the TDL. I have also noticed how it has helped stress! Seriously - the stress of getting dressed and having pants barely be able to button is not fun! It is downright stressful! No more - my pants buttoned easily this morning!! Soon I will be putting my jeans in the giveaway bin when they get too big!

If you don't have an exercise regime find one you like and stick to it. I highly recommend ChaLEAN Extreme! I have one more week in the Burn phase of this program. I will keep you updated and let you know my final results!

Whatever exercise you choose to do - Get to it!! You will have more energy!

You can visit my Beachbody website to learn more about ChaLEAN Extreme!
http://beachbodycoach.com/joyous14

Or to order Shakeology go directly to  http://myshakeology.com/joyous14
(I replaced one meal a day with Shakeology!)

Tips for early workouts:

• Set out workout clothes the night before. (socks, sports bra, shoes, everything!!)
• Put the workout dvd in the player so all you have to is press play!
• Set your alarm!

Friday, December 17

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 3 - C
2. ChaLEAN Extreme Ab Burner - C
3. Add new addresses to Christmas List - C
4. Pick up Christmas Cards - finally ready!! - C
5. Send out Christmas Cards - C (This took a lot longer than I thought. I put all the friends and family in a spreadsheet so next year I can simply print labels. In the long run this will save me time!)
6. Give $20 towards gifts for teacher - C
7. Write work TDL (I have not been getting as much done as I need to for work. I know it is because I have not been consistent writing my work TDL. No more. This is going on the list everyday!)
8. Update blog and MMTDL facebook page. - NC
9. Laundry (5 loads - I will bust out all 5 over next 2 days.) - In progress
10. Finish finding homes for all the books and misc. in the dining room (15 min. segments will help me get it done.) - Moving to Saturday. Ran out of time today.
11. Work - 2 hours. - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Pizza
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C & PM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -   None
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   NC
5. Make Saturday/Sunday TDL -  C
6. Any thank you notes to write? -  None

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off and Pick up from School - C
2. Work (go in and do a few things) - C
3. Birthday party - C
4. Go to a neighbors birthday gathering - C
5. Drop off donation to church. - C

Day 29: 365 TDL Challenge - Just Do IT!!

365 Day “Make My To Do List” Challenge

Don’t let another year go by without finally checking off those resolutions you vow to conquer each year. There is one sure way to do it! Make a To Do List everyday!

Join the 365 Day “Make My To Do List” Challenge:

Step 1: Commit to making a To Do List Everyday.

Step 2: Write out what long term goals/resolutions you wish to achieve in the next 365 days. Be specific.

Step 3: Each day take 10- 15 minutes to write your To Do List and put steps on that To Do List (no matter how small) to work towards achieving those resolutions!

Get to it! No time like the present. You do not have to wait until January 1 to proclaim your resolution to be more productive.  If you find out about this challenge after January 1 – it’s never too late!

 CLICK HERE  to join the 365 Day "Make Your To Do List" Challenge Facebook Page!



Thursday, December 16

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn Intervals - C
2. ChaLEAN Extreme Ab Burner - Move to tomorrow and do with Burn 3
3. Work - 1/2 C more to come
4. Post TDL - C
5. Add workout in to Wowy SuperGym (helps me track my results) - C
6. Pick up last Christmas Gifts -C
7. Order gifts for father-in-law online and send - C
8. Package donation for Christmas Adopt a Child - C
9. Schedule delivery of donation on Friday - C
10. Call about HOA fee - NC
11. Look for home budget software - NC
12. Grocery store - C
13. Put gift cards for nephews/neices in envelope and prepare to mail - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Leftovers
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C & PM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   
5. Make Friday TDL - 
6. Any thank you notes to write? - No

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off and Pick up From School -   C
2. After school activity - C

Day 28: Just 15 Minutes

One of the greatest tips I have taken from the Flylady is her advice to set a timer for 15 minutes to get things accomplished. Anyone watching my TDL post see many times I list a TD with a note to do it for 15 minutes. I find this really especially helpful when it is a task I do not want to do.

For example - On the TDL today is to go through the children's books. I really do not feel like doing this. I CAN do it for 15 minutes. I will keep scheduling 15 minutes until this TD is completed!

What I find so amazing is how much we can really get done in 15 minutes. Especially when you set the timer and have the TD on your TDL!!! It kind of works like magic! This 15 minture rule can extend beyond cleaning your home. It worked very well on trying to fit in time to create my budget! Now I have my budget!

If getting your home in order is on your resolutions list this is a must have book! She offers so many great tips!  I do have the official flylady timer! I love the little reminder on the bottom that says "Just 15 minutes"  Check out her site at  http://www.flylady.com/  for more great tips!

Now off to set my time for 15 minutes and go through those books! - COMPLETE

















Wednesday, December 15

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Burn 2 - C
2. Zumba - C
3. Go through children's books - 15 minutes - C
4. Work 2 hours - C
5. Confirm $ amount spent on December groceries to date. - $396 (I have $324 left in the grocery budget. Let's see if I will make my goal of decreasing my grocery cost by 20%) - C
6. Post blog. - C
7. Pick up rug. - C
8. Pick up Christmas cards. - NC b.c they were not ready.
9. Pick up ornaments for gifts. - Move to tomorrow
10. Purchase stamps. - C
11. Pay bills and update on budget line. - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Roasted Chicken, Broccoli & Rice - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   NC
5. Make Thursday TDL -  C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - Yes.

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off and Pick up From School -  C
2. Home for the night!!! - C

Day 27: Get in on the 365 Day Challenge

365 Day “Make My To Do List” Challenge

Don’t let another year go by without finally checking off those resolutions you vow to conquer each year. There is one sure way to do it! Make a To Do List everyday!

Join the 365 Day “Make My To Do List” Challenge:

Step 1: Commit to making a To Do List Everyday.

Step 2: Write out what long term goals/resolutions you wish to achieve in the next 365 days. Be specific.

Step 3: Each day take 10- 15 minutes to write your To Do List and put steps on that To Do List (no matter how small) to work towards achieving those resolutions!

Get to it! No time like the present. You do not have to wait until January 1 to proclaim your resolution to be more productive.  If you find out about this challenge after January 1 – it’s never too late!

 CLICK HERE  to join the 365 Day "Make Your To Do List" Challenge Facebook Page!


Tuesday, December 14th

To Do List:

1. Work 2 hrs.- C
2. Finish address labels for Christmas Cards - C
3. Purchase stamps for Christmas Cards - NC
4. Pull stuff together for school project
5. Write cousins address and give to Mom. - C
6. Work on volunteer job. 1/2 hour.
7. Put away laundry  - C
8. 15 mintutes on dining room - C
9. 15 minutes on budget (fine tuning) - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? - Eat at the Mall. Family eating leftovers.
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   
5. Make Wedensday TDL - 
6. Any thank you notes to write? - N/A

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off and Pick up From School -  C
2. Christmas Shopping -
3. After School Activity Pickup -  Delegated to Hubby! - C

Scheduled To Do:

Day 26: Feeling Energized!

My husband is starting to notice how much more organized our home is and all that is being accomplished! I love it! I am not sure if it is the exercise regime or general productivity of crossing everything off the TDL that is giving me more energy but I feel like I am getting so much accomplished. I am getting stuff done not even on my TDL. If you know someone who you think would like to join in the 365 Day TDL Challenge - Invite them to join us! Official sign up instructions coming soon!

My Tips of the Week:
Don't buy anything on the Internet without first searching for a coupon/promo code.
I have saved on average 20% off purchases on sites already running sales and offering free shipping.
Great way to do the Christmas Shopping!

Monday, December 13

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme - Burn 1 - C
2. Go over checking account balance - C
3. Find box for Church Christmas Gift donations -C (picking up at Mom's tomorrow)
4. Check on rug at Lowes - C
5. Track chair being delivered - C (should be delivered today.)
6. Purchase Paint from Lowes - C
7. 15 Minutes on budget - NC
8. 15 Minutes on Dining Room  - C
9. Pack up rest of stuff for Purple Heart and put on front steps. - C
10. Review new benefit packages. - C
11. Work 3 hours. - 1.5 complete...
12. Grocery Store - C
13. Take picture of children in front of the Christmas Tree - C
14. Download picture and order Christmas Cards - C
15. Make TDL for things I need to accomplish this week. - C
16. Delete 100 old emails (I am horrible at this! I need to keep emails as organized as paper.) - C
17. 1/2 hour on Volunteer Job
18. Laundry - Bust out loads. Wash, fold and Put away!! - C (Busted out 4 loads! 3 will be put away in the morning. Kids sleeping and I dare not wake them!)

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? BBQ Chicken - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -    C
5. Make Tuesday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - N/A

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off and Pick up From School - C
2. After School Activity Pickup - C  

Day 24/25: Weekend Cleaning!!

Today is all about getting my living room back together! We repainted and moved furniture around. I am going through books and purging! So far I have two boxes to give away. It feels great!!

What's on your TDL this weekend?

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn It Off - C
2. Put living room back together - C
3. Organize/giveaway DVD's/VHS Tapes - C
4. Schedule pickup through gooddonor.org - C
5. Wrap gifts to take up to Church - C
6. Grocery Store - Moving to Monday
7. Pick up rug from Lowes - Not in.

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Take out - Chinese!! & Enchiladas - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -   NC
5. Make Monday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - C

Scheduled To Do:

1. Visit with neighbor - chat and drink a glass of vino!! - C
2. Mt. Vernon Trip - Cancelled because of rain.  :(
3. Church  - C

Day 23: 365 Day Challenge

Who want's to get in on the 365 Day To Do List Challenge?

I am looking for Team Members! That is anyone who wants to join in the 365 Day To Do List Challenge!

Consider this blog your teammate, cheering you on as you successfully cross off all your New Years Resolutions! We are all going to achieve our resolutions by committing to ONE thing - Making a To Do List everyday. On this blog we will share ideas, tips, trials, tribulations and stay movitated throughout the year.



Here is what you need to do to be actively involved in this blog:

Step 1: Commit to making a To Do List Everyday.
Step 2: Write out what long term goals/resolutions you wish to achieve in the next 365 days. Be specific. You can read what I call my secondary resolutions on the tabs marked, health, finance and home.
Step 3: Each day you must take 10- 15 minutes to write your To Do List and put steps on that To Do List (no matter how small) to work towards achieving those resolutions!

Let's Get to It!!



My TDL for Friday, December 10.
To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme - Burn 3 Workout - C
2. Make work TDL
3. Send Jeff links to my beachbody/shakeology site - C
4. Follow up on business cards for AD. - C
5. Pick up check from work and deposit. - C
6. (1) Load of laundry, wash, dry and put away.
7. Write blog post.

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Pasta!!
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM - 
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -  
5. Make Saturday/Sunday TDL -
6. Any thank you notes to write? - C

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off & Pick up from school - C
2. Funeral Home :( -

Day 22: Cutting Cost & Saving $ - The Next Steps in My Budget Makeover

The budget is complete but for a few adjustments that will be made in January.  In the meantime I am looking for all ways to save.  How am I going to do that?

1. Look at every fixed line item in the budget and investigate if there is a way to cut cost.

2. Cut my latte factor. In my case and my husbands our Latte Factor IS a Dunkin Donuts Coffee Addiction. We love Dunkin Donuts coffee. Now I buy a bag (look for it on sale & coupons) and brew at home. On Sunday's after Church we do treat ourselves to coffee and the children to donuts at Dunkin Donuts and it makes it more fun and special. - Saving $1000

3. Before any "want" purchase I ask myself  "Is this worth my time?" I know what I make per hour with my part-time job. I simply say to myself before a want purchase or impulse buy "Is this shirt worth 3 hours of my time?" I have found myself saying "no" to many impulse purchases.

4.  No savings is too small. I think of small savings in this regard after reading Dave Ramsey's book. Would I throw a $1 or 25 cents for that matter out the window of my car? No, never!! Why then is it not worth the time to cut a coupon for a product I always purchase, wait for a "want" item to go on sale, or simply say no I don't need that. All the savings add up!  The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness

Dave Ramsey quotes John Maxwell about budgeting in his book "A budget is people telling their money where to go instead of wondering where it went."

I am going to tell my money where to go! Get to it and find ways to save! Share any good tips!

To Do List:

1. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn Intervals & Ab Burner - C
2. Write letter for St. B. Art Auction - Started by not C
3. Get Mass Card for Brenda's Mom
4. Look online for sparring equipment  - C
5. Work 2 hrs. - NC

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Chicken Noodle Soup - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -  C
5. Make Friday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - Need to write one. - C

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off/Pick Up from School - C
2. After School Activity -

Day 21: Happy Holidays

No update this evening. Just had fun with the family putting up Christmas decorations and elfing ourselves. If you want to laugh go elf yourself at http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/
Guaranteed to put a smile on your face!!



To Do List:

1. Pick up checks from work. - C (they were not ready.)
2. Bank - Make deposits - C
3. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 2 - C
4. Write letter for art auction (volunteer job) - NC
5. Work - 2 hrs. - NC
6. Put up the Christmas Tree & Have Fun Decorating with the Family!! - C and had so much fun!
7. Put laundry away (4 loads) - I got crazy last night and busted through laundry washing and folding. Just need to put it all aways today!  - C
8. 15 minutes paper declutter - Again this was not on the TDL yesterday but it is becoming a habit. I spent 30 minutes going through old files last night while watching Biggest Loser! - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Chicken Noodle Soup
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  AM/C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -  C
5. Make Thursday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - C

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off/Pick Up from School - C
2. Everything else cancelled...Son home school sick. :( = C

Day 20: Coupons

I stopped by the grocery store to pick up items I had coupons for and a second $1 off for up to 4 manufacturer coupons offered by the store. I was so good. I went in focused - to get these items and leave.
I was successful. These items are products I use all the time. If I don't have to buy them full price I won't!  The fact that I could get them on sale, with a manufacturers coupon matched by $1 off a special store coupon meant great savings! 

My Deals for Today!

Garnier Shampoo - Price $3.29/On Sale $2.99/$1 off Manufacturer Coupon $1.99/$1 off matching store coupons = $99 per shampoo (I purchased a shampoo, conditioner and hairspray for .99 cents each!)

Cascade Tablets: Price $5.29/On Sale $4.97/$1 off Manufacturer Coupon $3.97/$1 off matching store coupon = $2.79 for 20 Cascade tablets!

A few months ago I started reading coupon sites. There are many sites that will teach you how to find the best deals. It is worth checking these sites out for their couponing tips.

Great site I like to visit:
www.couponmom.com.

What coupon sites do you like to read? If you don't use coupons - why?

To Do List:

1. Work 4 hrs. (onsite) - C (5 hrs.)
2. Post Office - Mail item sold on craigslist - C
3. Pick up Christmas Tree - C
4. Turn in hours to work - C
5. Wash and fold (2) loads of laundry -
6. Take bagged clothes to Mom's (for my sisters little boy) - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Left-overs - C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -  C
5. Make Wed.  TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - C

Scheduled To Do:

1. Drop off/Pick up from school - C

Day 19: Working on the Budget

I spent more than my scheduled 15 minutes allotted to work on my budget and I got a lot accomplished. I really want to get this kicking. It is vital to my sanity and stress level. The budget is 90% complete. I have a couple more numbers I need to verify and then will be off to a fresh start come January 1!

Immediately I am slashing the grocery budget. This is one spot in the budget I knew I could make a quick immediate impact. To date I have spent $256 of my $720 December allowance for grocerys. I will keep you all posted. It keeps me honest. What am I doing to keep to my grocery budget:

1. Shop one time per week.
2. Base meals on what is on sale.
3. Use coupons. (I have a lot to say about coupons. More to come on that subject.)

More news..
I am very proud that I sold a box of old ink cartridges on craigslist. A friend was going to toss the ink. I said I would take it. The box has sat next to my desk for months. That is until I put it on my TDL!
I looked up how much each ink cartridge cost and put together an ad for craigslist. I got a few hits but I think they were bogus. Last night I got an email from a gentleman checking to see if I by chance still had them.
I sold them for $75!! That $ will go right to the credit card!!  Post office is on the TDL tomorrow!! I have to mail him the ink!!

What do you have laying around that you could sell and make moola?

To Do List:

• Make Christmas Shopping List- Started...not complete.
• Open account for emergency fund. - NC (I want to put the money in different bank than where I keep my checking. I need to decide on a bank.)
• Check Lowes for pickup of rug. - C
• 15 minute paper declutter - C (threw away a bunch!)
• 15 minutes on budget. - C
• Work 1/2 hour on Volunteer Job - C
• Work 2-3 hrs. - NC (only 1/2 hr.)
• ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 1! -C
• Cleaning out the children's sock drawer. - NC
• Purchase gifts for Church Christmas donation - C
• Check out bday party idea at Michaels - C

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Pork Tenderloin, Rice & Broccoli
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -  C
5. Make Tuesday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - Yes! - C (I wrote a note to a friend who passed me down some snow boots for my little girl.) and have another to add to the list! - C

Scheduled Activities:

1. Drop off/Pick up from School - C

Day 17/18: Cutting the Grocery Bill

I accomplished a HUGE TD today - grocery shopping. I wrote a few days ago how shocked I was to find out I spend an average of $900 per month on groceries. I read a stat that the US Labor Department estimates that the average family of 4 spends $709 on groceries each month. I will cut my current average by 20%. Once the budget is finished I might need to cut even more.

Stayed tune for all my great tips on how I accomplish this goal!
Please share you best tips on saving at the grocery store.

To Do List:

1. Work (and not from home today. I have to be out and about.) - C
2. Wrap 2 Birthday gifts - C
3. Pick up dessert to take to party. - C
4. Plan grocery shopping  - C
5. Grocery Shop - C
6. Put up Christmas Tree!!!
7. Work on finishing up living room.

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? Will be at party! & Sunday TBD
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM - 
3. Put new apt. on the calendar - 
4. Clear Command Central (desk) - 
5. Make Monday TDL -
6. Any thank you notes to write? - Yes!

Scheduled To Do:

• Sat. Party - C
• Sat. Work ( 8:45 - 11) - C
• Sun. Church - C

Day 16: Time Wasters

I am 16 days into my 365 Day TDL Challenge. I can honestly say I feel I am getting so much more done.
Of course there are many things I don't list on my TDL - those things I just naturally do or have to do (e.g. shower, make my child's lunch to take to school.) For me what I put on my TDL are those things I don't naturally think to do or really have to work to fit in my day because my day can easily be swallowed up by time wasters.

My part-time job requires me to be on the computer. I spend a lot of time on the computer. Without a TDL I can reference and check off TD's I can easily be absorbed into the world wibe web - and I mean web. I can't get out sometimes!

The TDL keeps me focused. When I find myself hanging out on facebook a little too long I look back at my TDL to see what I need to check of my list.

What are your time wasters?

To Do List:

• ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 3 - C
• (1) Load Wash, Dry and Put away (ugh! Forgot to put a pullup on my little girl and she wet the bed.)
• (1) Load put away (I washed and dried before i went to bed.)
• Go over checking account. - C
• Work 2 hrs. - NC
• Open new saving account for emergency fund. - NC
• 15 min. on budget - NC

Always To Do:

1. What's for dinner? -  Going out to celebrate hubby's promotion!
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -  NC
5. Make Saturday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? -

Scheduled To Do:

• Meeting at Church - C
• Drop off Silent Auction Item - C
• Pick Up/Drop off School - C

Day 15: The Routine of It

Laundry has been on this list practically every day!! Laundry is my nemesis! I don't mind throwing it in the washing machine or dryer but putting it away is a different story. Why? What's the problem?

Well in my case I have about three different sizes in my closet & drawers.  I simply have run out of room. I have everything from a size 6 to my current size 10/12.  A few months ago I got rid of a bunch of suits I wore in a previous work life. Why was I holding onto these things? Out the door they went.

It was harder to let go of was the cute skirt I wore on my honeymoon. It’s a size 6 and my buttocks just does not fit in that skirt!

Simply seeing on the TDL everyday to put that load of laundry away has kept me accountable. I am honest about what gets checked off my TDL. Soon I will be making room in the drawers and in my closet.

Since I have put my exercise regime on my TDL I know I am going to get healthy and fit. Those size 10/12 clothes are not going to fit down the road. As these clothes no longer fit they will go straight into the giveaway box! No more holding on to them in case I gain a few pounds. Heading back to size 6!

To Do List:

1. Purchase tickets for Mount Vernon Tour - C
2. Work (as many hrs. as I can sneak in.) - 1.5 hrs.
3. 15 min. paper declutter -   C
4. Put stuff for Thursday pickup - C
5. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn Intervals & Ab Burner - C!!!
6. (1) Load of laundry (washed, dried & put away.) - C
7. 15 minutes on budget - C (figured out what we are spending on gasoline each mo. - $300! My husband is on the road in sales - he drives a ton!)

Always TD:

1. What's for dinner? -   C
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) -  C
5. Make Friday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? - C

Scheduled Events:

1. Dropoff/Pickup from School - C
2. After school activity - C (delegated to hubby!)

Day 14: Time to Do the Budget (Finance SR)

I have been working on my budget 15 minutes a day. In that 15 minutes a day I am looking at set bills I pay each month and other cost such as grocery's so I can create a solid budget. I am putting all this information in spreadsheet and will plug into a very cool budget sheet I downloaded FREE from Microsoft templates.

This evening I took my last four bank statements and calculated my grocery costs each month so I could project what I need to put in the monthly budget. I always use my debit card for grocery's so it was easy to track. All I can say is -- WOW!! I had know idea how much I was spending on grocery's. My monthly average is $900 for a family of four.

I think this budget category is one that has lots of flexibly. I am going to work so hard to to drop this monthly average by 20%. It might even need to be more once all is said and done when looking at total monthly expenses. Expect to read a lot about how I am going to get this budget category down!

If you don't know how much you spend on grocery's each month - figure it out!! Even if you do know - what can you do to save money each month on grocery's?

More to come on this subject!

To Do List:

1. Purchase tickets for Mount Vernon Tour - NC
2. Work (as many hrs. as I can sneak in.) - 2.5 hrs. so far - C
3. 15 min. paper declutter - C
4. Bag stuff for Thursday pickup - PRIORITY!! - C and will do even more!!
5. ChaLEAN Extreme Burn 2 - COMPLETED!! WHOOT! WHOOT!
6. Lunch with my little girl!! - C
7. (1) Load of laundry (washed, dried & put away.) - C
8. 15 minutes on budget - C (more like 25)

Always TD:

1. What's for dinner? -  NC so had to order pizza! Not a good thing!!
2. Refer to weekly calendar. AM/PM -  C
3. Put new apt. on the calendar -  C
4. Clear Command Central (desk) - Needs a good 20 minutes. - c
5. Make Thursday TDL - C
6. Any thank you notes to write? Y Two to Write!! - C

Scheduled Events:

1. Dropoff/Pickup from School - C