Gift #12 - February 29th Leap Day!

My friend Stacey sent me a "gift" recommendation to share with everyone some recently published tax tips from the IRS.  While at first this did not sound like a gift, I realized, as a CPA, I take a lot of things for granted.  First, that doing your tax return is fun!  Second, where to go for answers if you get stuck...or for many, WHEN you get stuck.  So, today I am sharing Four Ways to Find Free Tax Help (courtesy of the Internal Revenue Service).

IRS Tax Tip 2011-41, February 28, 2011

The IRS offers free assistance by computer, telephone and in person. The IRS can also help find free tax preparation sites for those who qualify. Here are four great ways you can get the information you need to file your tax return:

1) IRS Website The IRS website at http://www.irs.gov/ is a one-stop shop for a wide array of tax information. You can even prepare and file your federal tax return – for free – through Free File, a service offered by IRS and its partners who make available free tax preparation software and free electronic filing. But you must go through IRS.gov to use Free File. Have some tax questions? Check out 1040 Central on the Individuals page for the latest news. You can even track your refund with Where’s My Refund?.

2) Taxpayer Assistance Centers When you believe your tax issue cannot be handled online or by phone and you want face-to-face assistance, you can find help at a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. Locations, business hours and an overview of services are available at IRS.gov. Just go to the Individuals tab and click on the link for Contact My Local Office in the left tool bar section under IRS Resources.

3) Community Resources Free tax preparation is available through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs in many communities. Volunteer return preparation programs provided through IRS and its partners offer free help in preparing simple tax returns for low-to-moderate-income taxpayers. For a list of the 2011 VITA sites you can visit IRS.gov, or call 800-906-9887. You may also call AARP — the largest TCE participant — at 888-227-7669 (888-AARPNOW) or access http://www.aarp.org/ to find the nearest AARP Tax-Aide site.

4) Telephone Call the IRS Tax Help Line for Individuals, 800-829-1040, to get answers to your federal tax questions. To hear pre-recorded messages covering various tax topics or check on the status of your refund, call 800-829-4477. TTY/TDD users may call 800-829-4059 to ask tax questions or to order forms and publications. To order free forms, instructions and publications call 800-829-3676.

For more information about free services provided by the IRS, review Publication 910, IRS Guide to Free Tax Services available at http://www.irs.gov/ or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Gift #10 & #11 February 27th & 28th

Yesterday John & I were driving back from Dallas so I didn't get a lot of opportunities for gifts but I did carry with me my "You are unique and special" cards (see Gift #7).  At one quick stop, I jumped out to quickly tuck one in a parked car.  As random as this felt I wondered if the universe had aligned perfectly, winds blew the right direction and fate had parked that car right there, at that moment because that person, and no other, needed that note.  I wonder.

Today was really fun...my sweet husband is still on vacation so we decided to do something we haven't done in a long time - see a movie!  We were lucky enough to have two free movie passes so we were super excited.  As we talked about my gift today we decided I needed to buy a movie ticket or popcorn for someone.  Both good ideas.  As we approached the theater I discovered there was hardly a person in sight.  Only one person selling tickets, maybe a few folks in the parking lot.  No one in line!  Duh Juli - it's 1:00pm on a Tuesday!  Well, something will work out I concluded.  And indeed it did.  As John handed our passes to the clerk an older gentleman and his wife walked up behind us.  John saw them too.  I quitely said to John, "Buy our tickets and I'm going to give them our passes".  He agreed and turned back to the cashier.  I turned to the gentlemen and asked if he was going to see a movie today.  After I asked the question I immediately felt stupid - of course he was going to see a movie Juli...he was in the ticket line!  Anyway, he said yes.  When he spoke he reminded me of Morgan Freeman and instantly I felt endeared to him.  I handed him the two movie passes and told him to enjoy.  He looked surprised and thanked me.  As I walked off the gentleman smiled and thanked John too.  John grabbed my hand as we walked through the theater.  He had a smile on his face.  This gift wasn't just the gift of movie passes.  It was the gift of love that comes when two people give together.  I'm so thankful I have my wonderful husband and best friend on this journey.

Gift #9 - February 26th Do-over! :)

Today after posting for yesterday I decided the only way to make amends was to buy a bunch of lottery tickets.  My aunt & uncle were taking us to dinner tonight, so my opportunity would present itself again.  We pulled into the gas station and pulled out with five lottery tickets in hand!

Oddly enough, tonight we went to the restaurant that had such a long wait last night.  Of course, at 5pm, most restaurants are easy to walk right in to.  In we go, down we sat.  Of course, we had to make a small detour to the displayed saddles (see photo right).  Anna already has her heart set on a lovely pony so I thought I would let her try out a saddle, even if it was Western.  Ahem.  Moving on...

Our server, Matt, greeted us.  He was young and I envisioned him as a starving college student just trying to make a better life for himself.  When the check came, I tucked the lottery tickets in the folder.  I handed the folder to him and said "We bought some lottery tickets before going to dinner.  There are a few in there for you.  The drawings are between now and Wednesday".  He smiled, said thanks, then "awesome".  One of my favorite words!  My uncle grabbed my shoulder and said "He smiled Juli".  Yes, he smiled and so did we.  :)

Gift #9 - February 25th

I took a fantastic business communication course in college that taught me, when writing, get to your point quickly.  So, dear readers, I will do just that.  I'm greedy and weak.  There I said it.  Now that we've cleared the air..let me tell you about Saturday's gift.

The family & I took a little road trip to Dallas to visit with our extended family.  We are staying with my aunt & uncle who offered to watch the girls while us adults went out for dinner.  Since we both have a young child, this was a rare treat.  We agreed!  Knowing we were going to have a night out meant we would have the opportunity to tip.  John agreed this would be perfect to leave a tip and a lottery ticket.  At our next pit stop, I purchased one Texas lottery ticket.  The estimated cash value was $4.4 million.

That night we had a late start getting out the door for dinner.  We had to feed kids, bathe kids, read books, prep bottles, find a missing lovey - well, you get the point.  My aunt called in a "call ahead" for us at a local Mexican restaurant.  Perfect! Out the door we went.  When we arrived there was still a 45 minute wait.  I was tired, hungry, and had already helped myself to an adult beverage.  So, we called another restaurant which had only a 10 minute wait.  We decided to make a beeline for them.  Stay with me people, I'll get to my point. 

It was after 8:00pm by the time we got to our second restaurant and settled in to meet the server that was going to be the lucky receipient of my lottery ticket.  The lottery drawing was at 7:00pm.  Do you see where I'm going?  Yes, that's right - at that moment, I could possibly be holding a $4 million dollar lottery ticket!  What should I do?  Should I check the ticket real quick then give it to him?  NO!  I couldn't make a gift of a losing lottery ticket.  And, friends, I can just tell you I wasn't about to hand someone a winning lottery ticket either.  Maybe I should not check it and give it to him?  Then, I would never know.  Argh!  What to do?!?!?  I decided to do nothing.  I didn't check the ticket and I didn't give it to him.  So, on Saturday, I did not make a gift. 

I'm still working through my emotions on this.  I feel greedy, I feel weak.  But, as I type, my resolve to make an even better gift in the coming days is building.  Stay tuned.  :)

Gift #8 - February 24th

Today I'd like to share with you an informational & impactful book written by Little Rock resident, Anne Cauthron, titled The Bottom Line: How to Be an Effective Multi-unit Manager.  I recently caught up with Anne to find out a little more about her book and inspiration.

What inspired you to write The Bottom Line?
Alana Tyson -- She is an incredible life coach.  She counseled me to write down my "bucket list" of 101 things I wanted to accomplish or experience before I left this body.  I am truly so blessed that I don't think along those terms - I am content where I am.  I diligently numbered three pieces of paper from 1-101, but was only able to come up with 15.  Having a book published was one of the fifteen. :)

Who could benefit from reading your book?
Even though "The Bottom Line" is specifically written for current or developing multi-unit managers, anyone who manages people will benefit from "The Bottom Line".  The first three chapters discuss effective management beliefs and practices.

What are three things readers will take away from reading your book?
1.  Do the right thing every day and sales and profits will come.
2.  People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.
3.  Embrace and practice servant leadership - the rewards for your team and for you are many.

What else can you tell us about The Bottom Line?
"The Bottom Line" is an easy read, but full of impact.  There is no cotton candy syndrome - 10% sugar and 90% air!

Thank you Anne for writing such a much needed book!  Currently Amazon.com is out of stock (it's flying off the shelves people!!).  For 30 Days of Giving readers, Anne is offering to sign all book purchases and ship for free!!!  If you would like to contact Anne, please email her at annecauthron@yahoo.com.

(My gift today was to support and promote women in their journey of joy.  May we all take out three pieces of paper, number 1-100, then take action like Anne!!).

Gift #7 - February 23rd

My friend, Antonio, was walking through the streets of New York City when someone handed him a note that read You are a beautiful and special person.  Antonio said it actually made him feel wonderful that day.  He suggested I do something like that as my gift.  I agreed!

Today I made three notes (typed but with the fun handwritten font) that read You are unique and special.  What makes you special is that you ARE unique.  Don't compare yourself to others because there is no one else like you in this world.  Wow!  How cool is that?  You don't know me and I don't know you.  But, I do know there is something special about each one of us.  Each day for 30 days I am giving a gift to someone.  Today I chose you.  Today I wanted to tell you that you are an amazing being!!  Celebrate it!  Have a wonderful day!  I then personally signed it with a little smilie face.

I needed to run an errand today so when I pulled into the parking lot of the store I surveyed the spaces, looking for someone to park next to.  I pulled in next to a white mini-van.  I popped out of the drivers side and quickly tucked the note into the wiper blades.  A few minutes later, while I was perusing my favorite organization store, I looked up and saw the white mini-van pulling out.  Inside was not just one person but three!!  Hopefully that note meant something to at least one of them.

This exercise today was a gift to me too.  Just writing the words reminded me of the tendency we have to compare what we're doing, or not doing, to others.  It's so easy to get caught up in "I should be (fill in the blank)", "I should be wearing --", "I should be joining --".  Today I was reminded that I am unique and I'm uncomparable!  Thank you Antonio, I feel wonderful today.  :)

Gift #6 - February 22nd

 Today's gift idea came from my friend Sharon.  Sharon regularly clips coupons for dog & cat food then leaves these in the stores where the foods are shelved.  Sharon & I served on the board together for the Humane Society of Pulaski County.  As a huge animal lover and generous supporter, I shouldn't be surprised at Sharon's deed, but a small part of me was.  The fact that this women, without having a "30 Day" project, does this already was just awesome.  It made me stop and think about all the little things people already do for each other...complete strangers...helping each other.  My heart smiled today.

Back to today's gift.  Last month I purchased a Whole Foods calendar which comes with a sheet of good coupons.  You know the ones I'm talking about...$1 off kind of coupons.  The kind that no matter your budget, you stop to tear out.  Today I tore out 3 coupons.  One for coffee, one for milk, and one for granola bars.  I applied tape to each of them then stuck them all to a sticky note.  Feeling quite proud of my skills, I imagined a blog where I wrote about "how-tos".  How To Transport Tape & Coupons Effectively.  After a moment of daydreaming, I realized that would be one short blog. 

Moving on...

As I worked my way through my grocery list, I discretely tacked up the coupons.  Casually stepping back to take a few photos, of course.  I know there is the "Coupon Board" at Whole Foods so I was worried if someone might stop me and say "Hey, you can't do that! Those have to go on the Coupon Board!".  No worries.  After the first 2 coupons, I was fearless.  I did worry slightly if the sticky residue would ruin the wood shelving units (a nurtured fear after growing up around antiques).  I comforted myself with the thought someone would come by soon and snatch these up (too quickly for any residue to harm the shelves).

All-in-all it was a successful adventure.  Much like Gift #4 I won't see the recipients face as they realize there is a little something-something just for them.  Like my How-To blog, I guess I will just daydream for now.

Gift #5 - February 21st

Today I packed up a little red gown (and matching handbag) to be shipped off to Lauren Slamb of Lauren's Lamb Foundation.  Lauren is collecting prom gowns for girls who could not otherwise afford them.  Her goal is to collect 250 gowns and so far she has collected 180...make that 181!  What's most impresive about Lauren is that she is only in the 8th grade!  Wow!  When I was in junior high I was too busy trying to get Bret Michaels to sign my - well, whatever - the point is I was too busy doing my own thing to worry about other people.  I think it's amazing what she is doing and happy to make my gift today to her and the Lauren's Lamb Foundation.

Gift #4 - February 20th

I woke up this morning with a full blown cold - yuck!  If it weren't for the dwindling puppy food I would have never left the house.  But, that just wasn't an option today.  At the suggestion of my friend Emilie, I decided I was going to buy coffee for the person behind me at Starbucks.  I haven't had caffeine in almost two years but if there was ever a day for caffeine, this was it.

Before I left the house, I quickly made a few cards that briefly describe this project.  My intention is to distribute these cards to the recipients of my gifts if it felt appropriate.

As I drove into Starbucks, three cars pulled in in front of me.  I thought, "No, you're supposed to be behind me!".  I started to worry that maybe no one would pull in behind me.  Worry not - this is Starbucks people.  Before I could get my order in, Hello Mr. Jeep Grand Cherokee!  It was today that I realized how quickly we sum people up by looks.  My first thought was this gentleman would not appreciate this gift or be moved by it.  Then, I reminded myself, this is about my experience - stick to my plan - buy his coffee.  When I got to the window I told the cashier I'd like to buy the coffee of the guy behind me.  She didn't blink an eye - apparently this happens a lot?  Anyway, after ringing me up, I handed her one of my pre-made cards and asked she give it to him.

As I drove off I felt a little bummed that I didn't get to see his smile like I did after yesterday's gift.  Did that diminish my gift since I didn't connect with him?  Maybe it changed his day MORE than the couple yesterday.  Who knows, but I hope, whoever he was, he enjoyed his coffee.  :)

Gift #3 - February 19th

John, my husband, & I went to lunch today at one of our favorite Mexican joints.  I had another gift idea in mind for the day but as we arrived it dawned on me I had, in my wallet, a gift certificate for a free dessert to that restaurant.  I decided I would give that away to a stranger. 

As we sat eating lunch another couple sat down in the booth behind us.  I didn't see them come in but felt the slight bounce in my seat as the opposite diner slide into her side.  I told John I was going to give them the certificate.  He replied "Yeah, do it!".  As we waited on the check I started feeling uncomfortable about approaching a complete stranger.  I thought maybe I would have John do it.  Then, I thought that would defeat my purpose.  So, as we got up to leave, I approached them.  The husband politely declined and I felt this slight panic with the idea of having to approach another stranger.  But, then, the wife said "Sure, I'll take it!".  Thanks sister.  They both smiled, then John & I smiled.  It was really nice.  Walking to the car I felt this urge to just start giving more stuff away.  This felt good.

Gift #2 - February 18th

Once a month my Sunday school class hosts a "Dinner Club".  We all get together for dinner at one couple's house or go out.  This Saturday night we went to another couple's house.  Normally I would bring a bottle of wine but not always.  (I felt a twinge of shame just come over me as I typed that I don't always bring a host/hostess gift.  Have times changed that much that it's no longer common or has my etiquette lapsed greatly?  This topic for another blog I suppose).  Anyway, as my gift for Saturday, I decided to bring a King Cake from the yummy Community Bakery.  It was Mardi Gras after all and the idea sounded fun.  It was indeed fun, especially as we all waited to see who got the baby!

I shared my project that evening and received several great ideas.  My favorite came from the hostess, Leslie, who suggested at the end of my project I try to find someone else to pick it up for another 30 days.  Any takers?

Gift #1 - February 17th

I was so inspired by Catherine's gift I had to share this with my friend, Julie.  Julie is a brilliant artist and fantastic massage therapist (you can read her blog here and schedule a massage here).  As I lay on her massage table for an hour of sheer bliss, it hit me!  Give Catherine a gift certificate for a massage to Julie!  I was so excited...this gift benefited two people...woo-hoo!

Catherine loved the gift certificate and decided to share it with her husband.  Now...make that THREE people!

Unexpected gift:  Friday afternoon I was shopping for a new car seat.  The store was hosting a trade-in event for 25% off certificates (you bring in an old item and get 25% off the purchase of a new item).  I needed to buy two car seats, one for me and one for my mother's car.  She had an item to trade in, but I didn't.  As I stood there a women approached me and asked if I would be buying a car seat today.  I said yes and she GAVE ME her 25% off certificate!  She said she traded in two items and only needed one certificate.  Folks, let me give you numbers here...that just saved me $50!  I thanked her, hopefully profusely, and thought "wait a minute...I am the one to be giving the gifts!".

My Inspiration

Several months ago I sold a dining table on Craigslist to a young couple.  When they arrived, a little voice inside me said "Just give it to them".  I didn't.  A few weeks later, I sold a couch...same little voice.  Besides wondering why I'm selling all my furniture, you might be wondering why I didn't do it.  I still don't know.  But, I came up with the idea of giving something away every day for 30 days.  I believe in taking action when inspired but guess what?  I still didn't do it! 

Fast forward 3 months.  I met a new friend, Catherine, in my aerobics class.  From my second week in class, I knew Catherine would be an inspiration to me.  She gave 100% to her workout from the minute she started to the end.  Catherine is also an artist and while surfing her fabulous site I saw a painting that really spoke to me.  I emailed her and told her I wanted to hear more about it.  She said she painted it while pregnant as a gift for her OB.  She ended up giving him someting else but went on to say that since she painted it as a gift she wanted to give it me.  Wow.  I was so blown away.  This person, that I barely knew, wanted to give me this amazing gift.  I was honored, excited, and...most of all...inspired.  The universe had yelled loud enough...I was going to start my project.  The day Catherine gave me her amazing work of art, I gave her the first gift in my 30 Days of Giving Project.

Here are a few of my ground rules:

1) Gifts have to be something I would not normally give or do.  Since I volunteer for a few organizations already I couldn't count those acts.

2) Gifts could be to strangers or friends, but there should to be a mixture of both.

3) Gifts could be in any form: money, items I own, my time, my advice, items I purchase, etc. 

4) Gifts that could benefit more than one person would be extra cool.

Ok...let's do this!!

P.S.  You will note from the date stamp on my posts I may not always post daily, but rest assured, I will post!  :)