Sunday's Child

Big Brother is Watching

Remember last May, when we got checks from the government that were supposed to stimulate the economy (but didn't)?  I had forgotten all about that - my money was spent long ago, probably in Paris, instead of on frivolous things that were made in America, like the President wanted us to.  Well lo and behold, TurboTax asked me a question about my stimulus check right up front when I started my 2008 return. 

Look how ominous the question is!  The IRS knows how much you got.  Don't guess!  Holy cow, that was so long ago!  I used that "look up your amount here" link, but after all the strong language on the question page, I'm not TOTALLY SURE the web site gave me the right amount.  If you get your amount wrong, does it mean instant IRS audit?  My bank keeps a record of my transactions online, but only for the current year.  So I have had to go through this entire box of records, looking for the right bank statement.  (No comments on my filing system, please.)

If the IRS knows how much I got, doesn't it seem a little stupid that they're depending on me to supply the number on my tax return?  Is it a trick question??

Just In Case You Really Were Raised In A Barn

One of the administrative assistants at work has posted these helpful full page (laminated!) notices on the back of EVERY stall door in all the restrooms:

(Sorry for the poor photo quality.  iPhone + restroom lighting doesn't really do this justice.)  Previously, I had assumed all the people working here were adults.  We do have child labor laws in this country after all.  Apparently we need to be reminded of basic restroom etiquette, and the problem is SO BAD that the reminder needs to happen EVERY TIME we visit the restroom.  The notice in the large handicap stall is not on the door - that would be too far away.  Instead, it's on the stall wall, right by the toilet.  Wouldn't want to miss it!

"More Choose to be Buried With Cell Phone"

I came across this article on MSN today, and it cracked me up and horrified me at the same time.  Be sure to read down far enough to get to the lady that had her husband's cell number engraved on his head stone so other people can call him too.  Technology is great, and I sure do love my new iPhone, but come on!