excel/LO as a list of @#@#-that-needs-to-get-done. next column over is a r/b/g traffic lights. move them around in rough order. highlight those that are fixed dates. scribble on post it notes. lots and lots of post it notes and physically screw them up and throw them away. you'd be surprised how robust this is for single owner projects. managing a team? need different tool. i've used basecamp and was v happy.