Making Lists

I am a (virtually) compulsive list maker. I have been making lists since I first learned how to write. My favorite, childhood, materialistic, list-making endeavor was making my Christmas wishlist. (I was in love with the Sears Wish Book, and eagerly awaited its arrival out our house each fall.)

Sometimes, I make the same lists twice in the same day, when I don't remember where I left the first version of the list.

I make lists in a vain attempt to organize my chaotic life. Making lists gives me a false sense of control. And, oh, how I like to be in control.

When I got to graduate school and discovered the wonders of databases, I fell in love with that technology. After all, databases are the perfect means for organizing lists (as are spreadsheets, and tables).

Sasha Cagen keeps a blog about her lists. The blog goes beyond the "To Do" aspect of its name. She recently published a book of her favorite lists. As part of her book promotion tour, she's holding List Slams which sound like Beatnick poetry readings for the list-obsessed. Makes me wish I lived in the SF area just to attend one.