January 2017

WHERE does the time go? Another year has slipped by! I hope 2016 was good to you all,

2016 was a good year for me.

As usual, the year started out with tax season. It went well. I added some new clients, Tax season is such a double-edged sword to me. I look forward to it before it starts; I enjoy it while I'm doing it, but on April 16th, I'm questioning whether I want to do it again. This year (2017) I have made a conscious decision to expand my business. I have gained several more certifications and am in the process of launching a new website. Check it out if you have nothing better to do: www.PTASOnlineMN.com. (It's still in the development stage...)

I spent spring and summer just puttering around the yard - one of my favorite activities.

In June, I spent a few days with my daughter, Michelle, and her family at Jellystone campground in Warrens, WI. I'm not an outdoorsy guy, but we had a good time. At least Jon rented a cabin so it wasn't really "camping." I turned 60 that month, and Michelle and Jon threw a little party for me. It was very nice.

Then, in July, Michelle and Jon told me they were throwing a surprise 60th birthday party for my ex-wife, Karen, in La Crosse. (I live in Minneapolis and Karen lives in Madison.) At the same time, they told Karen they were throwing a surprise birthday party for me. So, Karen and I both showed up expecting the party would be for the other and it was for BOTH of us. That was quite the surprise! Many friends and relatives were there. I was truly humbled at the number of people who were there.

In September, a cousin from my mom's side, Stephanie Merfeld, and her husband Jim, stayed with Jon and me on their way back from California to New Hampshire. I hadn't spent any real time with her in more years than I care to mention. We had a VERY nice time. It's always good to re-connect with family.

The remainder of the fall was uneventful. Jon and I went to my daughter's house for Thanksgiving - . Jon made a wonderful meal! I spent the day doing the largest crossword puzzle I think I've ever seen!

Which brings us to Christmas and New Year. Again, Jon and I spent Christmas with my daughter and her family. It was great spending time with them. It's always fun to see Christmas through a kid's eye. The trip there was horrible - snow, rain and ice - but we made it.

So... That was my year....

This next year, 2017, I'm planning a trip to London and Paris in September. I love London and I have never been to Paris. I gave Jon the "Rick Steves' Guide to Paris" for Christmas, so I'm sure he is planning out the trip. On one of my future trips to the UK, I do plan to get to get to Manchester - our ancient home - to do some more research on our tree, but not this trip...

Anyway, shoot me an E-Mail and let me know about your year!

As always, keep in touch,
Paul