The Accidental Shopper

The drive home last night from eastern Washington was certainly exciting.  I didn’t set out until 5 or so, when it was already pitch-dark,and it poured rain the whole way home.  There was no ice at Snoqualmie Pass, but pools of standing water lurking all along I-90 would send the car veering off in unexpected directions.  Sort of like the Space Mountain ride at Disneyland.  I arrived home with visions of wineglasses dancing in my head, but Mrs. Perils chirped, “You still have time for a workout!”  So I put my running stuff on, threw myself out into the ambient moisture and trotted down to the gym.  Glad I did it, as they have limited hours the next couple of days.


Going through my mail, I found some tidbits to share:


From the Washington Society of CPAs, a mailing that goes:



The need for young, well-trained CPAs is growing.  The Washington CPA Foundation addresses that need through its scholarship program.  As you plan your end-of-year giving, please consider a donation.  You can help keep the future bright for the accounting profession.


Right.  I’m gonna defer contributions to my retirement fund to train people to take work from me.  While I’m pursuing my new career as a Walmart greeter, they’ll be at their 20-something happy hours, day-glo drinks in hand, calling the senior partners “hairy-eared, pencil-necked geeks”.  Just like we did.


Next up is Tax Facts from the Washington Department of Revenue, communicating tax changes and enhanced services. 




  • The first thing to catch the eye: “Lower B&O tax rate for manufacturers of commercial airplanes and component parts“  Wow, does that law cast a wide net, or what?  Of course, I wouldn’t be so snide if I were one of that plucky cadre who’s building airplanes for sale in their basements.


  • The next: Fish Tax Extended to Sea Urchins and Sea Cucumbers.  Mrs. Perils is eager to see what techniques they devise to collect it.


  • Lastly, Online Videos Are Here!  A sampling:



    • Online workshop on the Lodging Industry


    • Step-by-step video guide on how to fill out a Small Harvester Forest Tax Return

OK, I’m off to Best Buy to shop for Mrs. Perils’ Christmas gift.  Wish me luck!