Just for Fun

The IRS 90-Day Letter: Five Mistakes That Can Cost You Your Day in Tax CourtWhen most people receive a Statutory Notice of Deficiency, their first thought is, “How am I going to pay this?”That may be the wrong question.A Statutory Notice of Deficiency, commonly known as the 90-Day Letter, is often referred to as your “ticket to the United States Tax Court.” It gives you the right to challenge the IRS’s determination before the additional tax is generally assessed.Unfortunately, many taxpayers lose that right by making a few common mistakes.Mistake #1: Assuming the IRS Is Always RightThe IRS believes additional tax is owed, but that doesn’t automatically make its determination correct.The issue may be missing documentation, misunderstood facts, or information the IRS never received. Befo... 07/16/2026

Sometimes life's distractions can lead us off course—whether it's a dog chasing a deer or an IRS notice left unopened. This thoughtful story is a great reminder that addressing tax issues early can save time, money, and stress. Don't wait until a small problem becomes a bigger one. Yesterday, Freckles and I went for a bike ride.  I rode my bike; she ran free.  This is the best way I know to have her work out some of her energy.  As we were riding along, we saw three deer. I was able to stop Freckles from chasing the first two.  She really wanted to go after them, but she listened.  I even stopped long enough to take a picture before we continued on. I started biking up a hill.   I don't know about you, but I'm usually more focused on making it up the hill than anything else.  I was conc... 07/16/2026

Titus would get no argument from me on this one. Ice cold beer may come in second. Of course, to me, the crowning jewel of summer is:The North Dakota State Fair starts TODAY and the State Fair parade will run tomorrow morning. The parade is huge, typically with over 300 entries. I've done many posts on the fair and the parade in the past. You can expect more throughout this week. See you there! 07/17/2026

If there is no struggle, there is no progress. - Frederick Douglass No man was ever wise by chance. - Lucius Annaeus Seneca The difficulty in life is the choice. - George A. Moore The harder I work, the luckier I get. - Samuel Goldwyn Knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers. - Alfred Lord Tennyson Don't find fault, find a remedy. - Henry Ford 07/16/2026

25 Years of Real Estate. Nearly Two Decades of Sharing Knowledge.In 2007, we began blogging on ActiveRain.com with one goal: to educate, inform, and build relationships through helpful real estate content. What started as a simple way to share our knowledge has grown into one of the top internet marketing platforms for our business.Today, we're honored to be ranked #29 in Maricopa County for internet marketing on ActiveRain, a recognition made possible by the trust and support of our clients and readers.For 25 years, Gary and Melynda Wolter have proudly helped buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals in both Iowa and Arizona. From first-time buyers to retirees relocating to the Valley of the Sun, we've been privileged to guide thousands of families through life's important tra... 07/16/2026

Trivia question answers for Wednesday July 15, 20261. What name is given to an elephant's second incisors? Tusks2. Which country claims the island of Saipan as a commonwealth? USA3. Who famously said "When in doubt tell the truth? Mark Twain4. What sportsmen are divided into naturals and goofy-foots? SurfersTrivia questions for Thursday July 16, 20261. What French word for sled is given a Winter Olympic event?2. Who first charted the Gulf Stream?3. What is the fourth letter of the Greek alphabet?4. What unit of measurement is used for horses?Enjoy your day 07/16/2026

Every year on July 16th, and this year on Thursday July 16th, 2026 we celebrate and enjoy the unofficial National Cherry Day.Cherries have a history as rich as their flavor that have been enjoyed since ancient times as far back as 300 B.C. Like many things, cherries were brought to the U.S. by early settlers.Cherries are packed with nutrients and offer several health benefits loaded with antioxidants and contain compounds that help reduce inflammation in the body, including alleviating symptoms caused by arthritis and muscle soreness. Cherries can contribute to better sleep quality. Cherries can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote overall cardiovascular health.I want to wish to all my friends and to all members at Active Rain community a Happy and Wonderful National Cherry Day. 07/16/2026

Do you agree or disagree?Would love to hear your story please share your story.From my own  experience I know this is true.  I started back in 1991 and AM still going!  07/15/2026

Trivia question answers for Tuesday July 14, 20261. What is another name for the disease known as Varicella? Chickenpox2. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor which brand of potato chips changed    its name to Jays? Japp's Potato Chips3. A quincentenary celebrates how many years? 5004. How many years was Robinson Crusoe marooned on his dessert island? 28Trivia questions for Wednesday July 15, 20261. What name is given to an elephant's second incisors?2. Which country claims the island of Saipan as a commonwealth?3. Who famously said "When in doubt tell the truth?4. What sportsmen are divided into naturals and goofy-foots?Enjoy your day 07/15/2026

When I was 18, I lived in Arlington, VA.   My friends and I would go to the ocean, UNTIL Jaws came out.  THAT scared me so much, I didn't want to venture into the water.   Before I moved here, part of my research was about sharks at the beach.Here is what Google says - Yes, sharks absolutely live off the coast of the Algarve, with over 40 species recorded in Portuguese waters. However, encounters are rare, and there have been zero recorded shark attacks in Portugal. Algarve hosts several notable shark species, though they rarely bother beachgoers: Blue Sharks & Hammerheads: These are the most frequently sighted species in the warmer waters close to the southern coast. They primarily feed on small fish like sardines and mackerel, and are generally non-aggressive toward humans.Basking Sha... 07/15/2026

I did not, but recently I read he was the gentleman who invented modern air conditioning!With many states sweltering in the heat, some are VERY thankful for the modern convenience of being cool.Willis Haviland Carrier was an American engineer, best known for inventing modern air conditioning with the first electric air-conditioning unit in 1902.  In 1915, he founded Carrier Corporation, a company specializing in the manufacture and distribution of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.I know my A/C goes on if the temps are above 78, or the humidity is above 70%.THANK YOU Willis Carrier! 07/16/2026

It may look like some of the famed fast-food restaurants are in foreign countries, but have to say, they sure don't taste the same!  I remember being in Hamilton (outside Toronto) last summer, and so excited to see a Taco Bell.   Well, not so fast - they put some kind of weird sauce on the burrito, which was awful!   What a let down!   There is a McDonalds within a couple of blocks of my apartment, and haven't been in except to verify (from a friend) that they serve BEER at McDonalds.  WOW.   I had gone in after the breakfast hour, so not sure if they serve Sausage Egg McMuffins.   I do love those on occasion.When I made a trip to Vilamoura recently, saw the first Burger King there.  Also, there is a KFC in Faro, I saw when I took Lucy to the vet when I first arrived.   Haven't eaten at... 07/16/2026

Are you planning a trip out of the Country?   Did you know there are credit cards that do not charge foreign fees?   With some credit cards, you can save on foreign fees by charging hotels, dining, and gas to these cards!I have found that my United Mileage Plus as well as my AAA Credit card do not charge these pesky foreign fees.    There are no annual fees for either of these cards either!    BUT, check with your United Mileage Plus card.   I tried to cancel this card last year, as I did not want to pay the annual fee.   The Rep said they would switch me to a different account.   I still get miles added to my account, but no annual fees.   It is nice to be able to charge my groceries and meals to my credit card and get cash back!Still trying to decide where I want to go once I receive ... 07/15/2026

Wordless Wednesday…Just One Since February, we’ve been busy monitoring bluebird boxes for the spring mating season. Our own box in our backyard had its first brood in mid-February.  And, it’s only fitting that the mating season ends with the fourth brood here. Last week, we had 4 eggs ready to hatch.  And, last Wednesday, one lone chick emerged.  The other eggs were not viable. So that you don’t suffer from nesting withdrawal, here is a red-winged blackbird nest that was in Green Cay Wetlands (2011). One of these thought I was getting too close to the nest.  It not only dive-bombed me but got me in the head so hard you could hear my “YIKES” across the boardwalk.   Enjoy every moment Mother Nature shares with us!  07/15/2026

Sorry no Michelle tonight, she is in Ocala, helping with babysitting.  Michelle has family in Ocala and is there to help babysit a 4-month-old.  Question why do woman say “the Baby” differently than men do?  I hear Michelle telling friends I am babysitting a baby in a completely different tone then when using my name in a sentence.Time for the top three, coming in at number three “Wow! The Natural Light and View,” shared from my front door.  Number two for the week was “Kitchen Remodels, Not as Bad as You Think,” saw a billboard for Pat’s Sales on 441 the other day.  Coming in at number one “Let Me Give Insight on Our Experience,” wanted to help fill in the blanks from when we bought and what we have today.Dick Betts, REALTOR®The Betts TeamLPT RealtyThe Villages, Florida717-860-3107 cel... 07/15/2026

I don't know how many readers remember the Rocky and Bullwinkle show and/or that Bullwinkle's college alma mater  Wossamotta University but it may have been my favorite as a kid. While the show was a lot of fun for kids it was laden with adult jokes as well as biting political messages during "the Cold War".Back to the cartoon at the top of the blog page.I'm sure most of us can think of an incident in our lives that relate to the Bee's question: "Why does everyone try to get away from me as quickly as possible?".Maybe Dr. John can answer that question with his song:I'd say we must have either been in the right place at the wrong time or the wrong place at the wrong time.I can't think of a Real Estate situation in my life this applied to but I do remember 50 years back when I went to a f... 07/15/2026

Moving to a new city is about more than unpacking boxes and learning your daily commute—it's about creating a life in a place you'll soon call home. One of the best ways to settle into the Greater Greenville SC area is by getting out and exploring everything the Upstate has to offer.Whether you've relocated for a new job, to be closer to family, or simply for a fresh start, Greater Greenville Upstate SC offer something for everyone. From the vibrant atmosphere of downtown to scenic parks, award-winning restaurants, seasonal festivals, and charming neighboring towns, there's no shortage of ways to connect with your new community.This guide highlights some of the best things to do after moving to Greenville, SC, helping you discover local favorites, hidden gems, and experiences that make ... 07/14/2026

I have been in Portugal now for two months, hard to believe!   When I first got here, there were things I found every day, different from what I was used to.  These days they are fewer and further apart, but still interesting. If you lose power, hope you have jugs of water, as it takes electricity for water to work in your property. The electric company (EDP) comes through annually to do an inspection on your property, no charge. Haven't seen any screens on any windows in the buildings near me.   Hope none of the mosquitos carry any disease, but it is recommended to close your windows after dark to keep them out of your home. Will keep sharing some differences.   It was interesting to read FB this morning on a post from someone contemplating a move here and asking what the pros and cons... 07/14/2026

Trivia questions for Tuesday July 14, 20261. What is another name for the disease known as Varicella?2. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor which brand of potato chips changed    its name to Jays?3. A quincentenary celebrates how many years?4. How many years was Robinson Crusoe marooned on his dessert island?Enjoy your day. Second attempt today to publish. Problem not going away. Future posts may become hit or miss.  07/14/2026

Not to worry I am not turning this page into a cooking page!  Probably at least 20 years ago I had a dinner on top of the Space Needle in Seattle that changed my desire for a certain fish, Chilean Sea Bass!  I Googled and saw the restaurant closed in 2017, but the memory is still there.  I believe it was Miso Chilean Sea Bass but not sure but from that day forward when I was in a restaurant and they has Chilean Sea Bass on the menu I was ordering it!  Fast forward to today, no more expense accounts while traveling, host for my speaking engagements taking me to dinner, I’m now on my own.  There is a restaurant in The Villages, Florida offering Miso Chilean Sea Bass, it is pricey at $52.99.  I had to try it once and it was excellent! Problem $53 for a meal even as good as it is!  Thank yo... 07/14/2026