Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Dear Friends, Readers, and Followers...

Welcome to my latest personal Blog thread.   This will be my continuing story of my life endeavors.   

I relocated here in January of 2017 to small town Alaska life from Eastern Montana where I was born,
and I was raised on my parents cattle ranch.  I loved the rural life, land, horses, life values, etc.

I own and operate my woman-own business... I am a CPA and have a tax and financial planning
business that serves private and business clients.

I started HRT in March of 2015, went full time in December of 2016.   I moved here immediately
after going full-time and quitting my executive accounting job at a mid-size company.

I enjoy the life that I now have... I have a sweetheart... she is a Dental Hygeienist at a local
Dentist office here.  I first met her when I had an appointment with my new local Dentist in April of 2018.
I will often refer to her as my Tooth-Fairy.

Next door to my office is a local coffee shop that in this small town is the gossip center and de-facto
meeting and greeting, and social gathering place for many of the townspeople. 
With the acceptance and support  of my tooth-fairy and the owner of the Coffee Shop, and even though
I arrived here as a full-time, 100% passing woman, that is where I officially came out to everyone. 
I did not want any gossip about the new blue-eyed blonde lady that just arrived.... and
now there were no secrets or stealth past to hide.  No mental burdens to load me down.

When I first moved here, I had quite a time sorting out my emotions as I was the Hunted Prey target of
most of the single men here, of which there are many, mostly sportsmen, hunters, loggers, etc.   I had
gone through the gauntlet of dealing with both male and female suitors that were vying for my attention.
I went on quite a few nervous dates until I finally met my tooth-fairy.

I live in a home and on a property about 2 miles from town.  In the winter months, we typically have snow,
ice, and bitter cold temperatures... 
        TODAY:   This morning January 02, 2023 I woke up to minus -33 degrees(f) [-36 deg C]

Winter solstice was a little over a week ago on December 21st....  shortest days and longest nights.
                 Sunrise: 10:26am
                 Sunset:   2:46pm

So, this is the beginning of my latest Blog here on the Forum.
I will be adding more comments and thoughts .... and pictures as I continue submit postings.

As always... please feel free to post here with your comments and thoughts... nothing reasonable
is off-topic.  Consider my Blog thread to be a kind of community gathering place where we can
meet, greet, exchange comments and thoughts, and have conversations.

I will be certainly posting more when I have time...

Many HUGS, my best wishes to you, and Thank You for reading my Blog.
Danielle northernstargirl@susans.org

For our returning members.... Welcome back after the site's CRASH
I know first hand how disappointing to see that much what we had shared about our journeys and
about our life trials and tribulations here on the Forum are lost....
            However
I just did a quick internet WEB search for some of my past activity I found text, excerpts from
postings and many photos that I had posted here on the Forum and on other sites.

I am eagerly looking to read your new postings around the Forum with your thoughts and comments.

Warmest Regards,
Danielle

Good morning, Danielle! It's good to see you blogging again.

@Oldandcreaky
Dear Oldandcreaky
I am glad to see that you made it back "home" here to the Forum.

Well, it appears that all of us on the Forum got a "reset button" ...   
Many of us have lost quite a bit of our pesonal threads, private messages
and photos.....   but with some time we can get back to even a better
place than we were....   think positive.

Thank you for coming to my newest and latest Blog thread.... 
I will be eagerly looking for you future postings around
our "new" Forum.

If you ever have any questions about the Forum, please feel
free to contact me.
Many HUGS .... and WELCOME BACK
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Well, the forum looks different and lots of info is lost, but Danielle is as sweet as ever and hooray for that!

Stay warm Danielle!! Down here in Cascadia we're in our usual winter pattern of rain, rain, grey, rain and just when you get tired of it being gray all the time- we have more rain!

I almost prefer our below freezing days.... then we get crazy bright blue clear skies!

Hugs!!

Caela

Hello Danielle.  Wishing you well in the new year!

I missed all of you. It is good to see you back here Danielle.

I don't really like the new format.  But, maybe it can be rebuilt like it was?  Meanwhile, how long will I have to verify myself for each post?  The math isn't hard, but seeing the letters is. 

Thank you, Danielle, for launching a new blog while this website is being reborn. I always appreciate you being here as you inspire my sweetheart and me. Thank you for your stories, which help us to believe in possibilities.

Thursday, about 6:00pm Alaska time ....  Hello everyone... I hope that you had a good day today. 

I am getting excited that the rest of the Forum Staff and I are finally getting
things fixed up and in order on the Forum.  It is a work in progress but we are
getting there one piece at a time.

Good news, I finally have all of my current and past Blog thread links fixed. 
They can be found in the Signature Line at the end of any message that I post.
For newer members that are not familiar with my life journey here on the Forum
please take a little time to read my postings... I am always happy to reply to
any questions that you might have.

Another typical COLD winter day here ...
    ....right now the temperature is minus -24 degrees(f) [-31 deg C]

The furnace at the building that my office is in was acting up today and the
only warm and cozy place in the building was at the next door coffee shop so
I took my laptop with me and did much of my work and client meetings there.

The daylight hours are getting longer now, and the nights are getting shorter...
    less than 4 hours of sun in the sky and a little over 18 hours night time.

I left my home to go to work this morning just after 6:30am and I didn't get home
until about 15 minutes ago....  a 12 hour work day... that is how it goes
when I own and operate my own business.

Thank you for coming to and taking the time to read my Blog thread ramblings.
You are always very welcome to post any of your comment and thoughts here, even
off-topic is OK  (within reason of course !!!)

HUGS, and my best wishes to you.
Danielle

Here in New Jersey we are having our first snow storm in 2 years and at a freezing +29deg. I feel like such a wuss after reading -24. Your one tough chick Danielle.
Hugs Gina

Danielle,

Nice to see a new blog thread for you here. I look forward to reading about your adventures.

Alice

I am closing my office now and going to dinner at my Tooth-Fairy sweetie's home.... 
bitter cold here today    minus -25deg (f) and snowing...  :) :icon_flower: :icon_love:

It is a COLD night tonight:

         (https://i.imgur.com/mGHii3h.jpg)

Note:   The F and C scales come together at (minus) -40 degrees
..... -40 deg(f) is exactly the same cold temperature of -40 deg (C)

HUGS, Danielle

Gosh, that's cold.

And there I was staying in cos its +4C. Stay safe dear and warm

When it's that cold, use the Kelvin scale. -40F becomes 233K, which doesn't sound cold at all.

I know you're used to low temperatures and have appropriate clothing, but that's just too cold for me!

Love always -- Jess

Dang.  We're supposed to hit the low teens on Monday, and everybody is freaking out over here LOL.

It's all about what you're used to, I guess!

~Sara

That's BRRR for sure. You must be far north Alaska. You could have picked a slightly warmer city lol

Hugs
Jessica xxx

My daffodils have started growing here in NJ. They think spring is here. -40 is crazy. I don't know how you handle that.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 12, 2024, 08:13:19 PMIt is a COLD night tonight:

        (https://i.imgur.com/mGHii3h.jpg)

Note:   The F and C scales come together at (minus) -40 degrees
..... -40 deg(f) is exactly the same cold temperature of -40 deg (C)

HUGS, Danielle

I'm glad I live in SoCal, where +40F is too cold for me  ;)

Quote from: Donica on January 13, 2024, 03:41:31 PMI'm glad I live in SoCal, where +40F is too cold for me  ;)

Could not agree more.

Ellen

Good Thursday morning everyone....
It will be a busy day today at my office when I get there... 
it is just after 7:15am here and I am getting ready to go to work. 

Here it is now minus -26 degs(f)  ...
it is not snowing now but we have several feet on the ground
left over from previous recent snow storms...

QUESTION: What are my friends, readers, and followers doing today?

HUGS, Danielle

Morning, Danielle

I see you are getting a jump on your busy tax preparation season. I wish you the best during this busy time. Have you hired any temporary employees yet? 

For me, I am volunteering at Laura's House today. I really enjoy working with the team there and know that it helps someone who is a victim of domestic violence. Then late do some grocery shopping.

Ellen

Food shopping and cooking, making my friend a birthday cake.

@EllenW
Thanks for jumping in on my Blog thread... I am always happy to see and to read your comment replies. 
YES, I now have 2 part timers...... a big help this time year as the tax season is getting into full swing.

I am so glad that your volunteer work at "Laura's House" is not only helpful to those in need but without a doubt it is a rewarding activity and experience for you. 

The staff is finally getting the Forum put back together after the New Year's crash ...... I have been burning the candle at both ends devoting a lot of time doing the things that can do to get things back in order but also at my CPA business.  If I didn't need to sleep at night it would give me more time to work on both tasks.

Again... thank you Ellen for posting and sharing.  You are always welcome to post anything here on my Blog thread.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: EllenW on January 18, 2024, 10:47:20 AMMorning, Danielle

I see you are getting a jump on your busy tax preparation season. I wish you the best during this busy time. Have you hired any temporary employees yet? 

Today was an all hands meeting at the new mixed company due to the take over of the company I work for. Got to see the new offices that we will eventually be working when our office closes. Met more of the staff. Did have that 'new girl' feel to it and a much bigger building.

Hugs
Xxx

Danielle, you are always upbeat and welcoming. Thank you for all you do.

Danielle.  Thank you for the weather you sent to the Southeast earlier this week.  It arrived pretty much intact, just a few degrees warmer than when you sent it.  Nights in the teens.  Days near freezing. 

It is my understanding that you are sending another blast this way this weekend.  That is awesome.  Thanks again.  But, that's all we need.  You don't have to keep sending it.  I wouldn't want Alaska to loose too much cool air.  It might affect migration or sea ice or something.  We don't need any more. 

But, thanks so much for what you sent already.

Rachel Montgomery


:)

While I lost all of my side threads, four years of your adventures are missing too. so glad to have this thread to follow your adventures and see how happy you are.

Laura May

We're feeling pretty frustrated with the cold temps in the northeastern U.S. right now. The wood stove isn't keeping up with the cold air that's slipping through the gaps in my 100 year old house. But it's 18º F ABOVE zero. After looking at your temps here, I realize that I have little cause for complaint.

Stay warm up there!

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 18, 2024, 10:31:15 AMIt will be a busy day today at my office when I get there... 
it is just after 7:15am here and I am getting ready to go to work. 

Here it is now minus -26 degs(f)  ...
it is not snowing now but we have several feet on the ground
left over from previous recent snow storms...

I'm in the Reno Nevada area, and when it's plus 26 and snowing here everyone is inclined to stay home, but you're off to work at -26 degrees and with fresh snow. Quite a different mind set between the two locations.

Up until about 5 years ago I never let the weather stop me.  If it looked like I'd need them, I thought nothing about putting the chains on the 69' GMC pickup and going about my business.  I had extra clothing, a tow strap and shovel in the truck just in case, and off I went.  In 25 years, the weather never kept me from work and I always made it home.  It was kind of a pride thing.  Sometimes it took the better part of the day, lol.

I'm back in the office for work now, but since the pandemic, I have the option to work from home when the weather is marginal.   Now, with a wife and 3 dogs, I'm inclined to stay home when the weathers bad.  I'm getting a little too soft in my later years. 

I hope you, and everyone are staying warm this weekend.

Warm Regards,
Paulie.

Sorry I'm late for the party. Thinking about baking something. It's cold and rainy here right now.

Hugs!
Donica

January 24, 2024 ....   Wednesday

VERY VERY VERY COLD today !

When I work up early this morning to get ready to go to
my office...
...the temperature was a Bone Chilling
        (minus) -47 degrees(f) or -44 degrees(c)
This afternoon at 3:30pm it "warmed up" to (minus) -33 degrees(f)

Just to put in my perspective this is one of the coldest days I have
experienced in the 6+ years that I have lived here.

HUGS,
Danielle

That is too cold for me.

Chrissy

Global warming ....

We have come out of our cold snap, some parts of Scotland min temp was -14C, down south -6c, beach weather for you Danielle. 

Then we had the 90mph storms coming over 2 in 3 days. Now it's calm and temps up to +14C as the air direction changes from north to south.

If you think it's extremely cold Danielle, then wow it's a whole different ball game.

Hugs
Jessica xxx

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 24, 2024, 06:36:35 PMJanuary 24, 2024 ....  Wednesday

VERY VERY VERY COLD today !

When I work up early this morning to get ready to go to
my office...
...the temperature was a Bone Chilling
        (minus) -47 degrees(f) or -44 degrees(c)
This afternoon at 3:30pm it "warmed up" to (minus) -33 degrees(f)

Just to put in my perspective this is one of the coldest days I have
experienced in the 6+ years that I have lived here.

HUGS,
Danielle

I don't think I could ever be comfortable living in a place where you put things in the refrigerator to prevent them from freezing. You must have a very warm heart to live in such a cold place.

Love always -- Jess

I always am talking about and mentioning my Tooth-Fairy sweetie and I realize that
as a result of the Forum crash at the first of January that I lost many of the
postings that showed her picture... 
This picture was taken at my recent hospital visit. 

(https://i.imgur.com/k2l79bXm.jpg)

I have been suffering from debilitating chronic Migraine headaches for several years
and some of the oral drugs and an injection drug that were prescribed to me in the past
did not really work that well.... and finally my doctor prescribed an Infusion drug that
has really done a good job in eliminating my chronic Migraines...  it has to be repeated
every 3 or 4 months so I usually plan a big city shopping trip in Anchorage which is
a little more than a 6 hour drive.

When I have my appointments ... my sweetie is kind enough that she always drives me
there and back and sits with me for the 2 hours or so before and during the appointment
and procedure.

HUGS, Danielle

For my more recent readers and followers I am thinking that you may not know
the story behind why I call my sweetie my Tooth-fairy.... 
.... go to this link on my Hunted Prey blog thread and read the details:
      https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,236395.msg2123977.html#msg2123977

HUGS,
Danielle

You two look very happy. It is great that she supports you so well when you get your treatments. I know how important that support is.

Ellen

Hi Danielle,

Thank you for posting the link about your sweetie Tooth-fairy!

I always wanted to live in Alaska. When I was young, I had this crazy dream to live in the Alaskan wilderness, build a log cabin and live off the land, pan for gold. I never made it to Alaska. Maybe a visit someday. I doubt that I am rugged enough to live off the land!

Kay

Happy birthday Danielle!


Chrissy

Happy Birthday Danielle  :icon_birthday:

Happy birthday, Danielle! :icon_birthday:

Happy Birthday Danielle! We hope you have a spectacular day!

Love Always -- Susan and Jessica Rose

Happy birthday dear, hope you are not to snowed in!!!

Happy Birthday Danielle. I hope you enjoyed yourself and did something special.
Hugs Gina

I am late to the party but just want to add, I hope you had a wonderful birthday.

You are very apricated here on Susan's

Ellen

Sorry I missed your b-day, Danielle. I don't even know how all y'all know the birthdays. Anyway, I hope it was fun.

The tooth fairy is a cutie...like you. Cutie + Cutie = A Cute Couple!

Thursday February 08, 2024

Busy day at my office. 
Lunch time here... my tooth-fairy sweetie is taking me
out to lunch today, she will arrive in a few minutes. 
Fortunately I have one of my part-timers here that will
look after things while I am at lunch.

Another very COLD winter day here:
  minus -30(f) when I went to work this morning and right now it is  minus -22(f)
              B U R R

HUGS, Danielle

I'm so very late to the party, non-the-less, I hope you had a wonderful birthday.
Barely into the +20 here and I think it too cold.  A least the snows melting slow and not making mud.

Warm regards,

Paulie.

Happy belated birthday! Sorry I'm unreasonably late to the party. I should have at least brought brownies or something.

I watched a program on telly last night about a UK TV presenters adventures in Alaska. She went south of Anchorage, feeding rescued baby moose and bears, learning to defend herself from bears and using a hand gun. Strangest bit was going to the Russian immigrants town and getting served Borscht , next week she is seeing what its like living off the grid! 

February 13, 2024  Tuesday evening

TOMORROW, WEDNESDAY, February 14th is
                        VALENTINE'S DAY  
i baked several batches of cutout heart Sugar Cookies wih colorful Sprinkles
for my peeps, followers, readers, and friends. 
I trust that you enjoy my cookies...
If more are needed I have 2 more full pans of cookies.
HUGS, Danielle

    (https://i.imgur.com/zDtv8PSl.jpg) 


                                  (https://i.imgur.com/YFFwIDml.jpg)

Munch munch, they look lovely.

Sunday, February 18, 2024  7:00am
Good Sunday Morning to my peeps here on my current Blog thread.

Woke up early this morning to (minus) -12 degrees(f)

I fixed my first cup of hot coffee and started getting ready for Church this morning...
.... shower, hair, minimal makeup, and figuring out what to wear today.  Whatever I wear
it will be WARM for sure... layers are my friend in cold temperatures.
The good news is that it is not snowing today.

Later today I am thinking of planning a small dinner and a board game at my home with
some of my friends.
At church this morning I will be able to figure who will be available.

Question: What are my readers and followers doing today?
Please, as always, feel free to post your comments and thoughts here.

HUGS, and my best wishes to you...
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Saturday morning:  7:05am    February 24, 2024

I got up and went to work at my office early this morning and I am working on
my 2nd Hot Espresso from the next door coffee shop...  and a Blueberry Scone.

Lots of work this weekend... tax season is in full swing.  I have my 2 part timers
coming in shortly to help out

Snowing and cold today... (minus) -18 degrees(f)  [-28C] 

Question for my followers and readers: What are you up to today... fun? work?

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on February 24, 2024, 10:13:47 AMSaturday morning:  7:05am    February 24, 2024

I got up and went to work at my office early this morning and I am working on
my 2nd Hot Espresso from the next door coffee shop...  and a Blueberry Scone.

Lots of work this weekend... tax season is in full swing.  I have my 2 part timers
coming in shortly to help out.

Snowing and cold today... (minus) -18 degrees(f)  [-28C] 

Question for my followers and readers: What are you up to today... fun? work?

HUGS, Danielle

Stay warm Danielle. It's nice that you have a coffee shop right next to you.

As Far as Jamie and I today we are going to a movie and then to playing video games with friends from Virginia. Before all that we are going to pick up some of my medications at the pharmacy. Plus we are spending time with our pets Bella and Leela. Hugs
Mariah

After watching a documentary on Alaska I have to ask have you eaten Moose head cheese?

@davina61
Dear Davina:
I think that I would have be starving to death to eat head cheese... moose, pig, cow, etc.

Regarding eating Moose meat... it is very good, not too different from beef other
than it is much more lean. 
When I make Meat Loaf or patties with ground-Moose meat, I have to add several
eggs into the mix so it will stick together otherwise it will just fall apart
when trying to serve it.
HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: davina61 on February 24, 2024, 12:39:29 PMAfter watching a documentary on Alaska I have to ask have you eaten Moose head cheese?

When I was young mum used to buy a pigs head and boil it to make brawn, if you dont know you strip the meat off and put it in a dish with a saucer and heavy weight on top so it makes a solid that can be sliced. The gelatine held it together.

Stay warm, Danielle!

I just finished doing lights and sounds for the last two shows of a children's play at the theatre.  It was a three-weekend, six-performance run.  Being the last day, we had a pizza party at lunchtime.  Someone brought donuts and cupcakes.  You should have heard the kids bouncing off the walls before the second show today.  Sugar high!!  The final show went well and played to a nearly-full house.

We had nearly 30mm of rain today, which melted most of the snow that was on the ground from last week.  Which sounds good, except that now we have a flash freeze and the rain changed to snow.  Luckily, I made it home from the theatre before the roads got too bad

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on February 24, 2024, 10:13:47 AMQuestion for my followers and readers: What are you up to today... fun? work?

For me this is a family weekend. My oldest sister (76) fell and broke her pelvic bone and has been in a rehab faculty for the past three weeks. So yesterday, my boyfriend and I went over to her module home and met my other sister to discuss how we can build a ramp to get in and out of the house easier. We think we have a plan just, need to get it approved. Today will be picking my sister up at the rehab and getting her up 5 steps into her house.

Ellen

Quote from: davina61 on February 24, 2024, 02:31:16 PMWhen I was young mum used to buy a pigs head and boil it to make brawn, if you dont know you strip the meat off and put it in a dish with a saucer and heavy weight on top so it makes a solid that can be sliced. The gelatine held it together.

Two people's separated by a common language -- I am pretty sure this is "head cheese" on this side of the atlantic. Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about it in one of the little house on the prarie books.

That was my thought but they didnt explain it on the program very well. Tongue sandwich was nice.

I have never had moose. I dislike duck, goose, deer, elk... most wild game. Except rabbit. On one of my first trips here to South Dakota, I was at a restaurant in Hill City called the Bumpin' Buffalo and I just had to try a buffalo burger. I fell in love.

Bison is leaner than beef, so cooking it is an art. It is low in fat (like you described Moose), so the key is to sear both sides of the burger on high heat, then finish cooking on low heat. Go to medium-rare if you can stomach it. It is the most juicy and delicious burger ever. If you overcook it, you will end up with a dry hockey puck. I make mine medium-rare then top it off with cheese, bacon, and the usual (ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato, pickle). I tried changing the cheese to Bleu Cheese once and it was awesome.

Since then, I have studied the bison. More than tasty, they are a mighty and majestic animal. I just love them. They have an attitude of apathy. They are not afraid of anything and if you are in their way, or too close to their calf, you get one subtle warning. They will raise their tail. If you don't leave immediately, you will be attacked. Everyone who visits Yellowstone needs to know that.

Sorry, I'm rambling.  ;D

@LoriDee
Dear Lori:
I was raised and grew up in Northeastern Montana on my parents cattle and
horse ranch so we always had beef and wild game in the freezer.   

Also Buffalo/Bison meat is widely available there so we prepared all kinds
of meat dishes with it.
... Moose meat is very comparable in taste, texture and leanness.

I can't believe why the crazy tourists that go to Yellowstone would want to
approach a Buffalo and try to pet it or feed it. 
Just like Moose, they are dangerous animals and can run you down and
charge you... great bodily harm can result.

HUGS, Danielle

I would never guess that the Spring season will begin in 3 weeks... 
here it is still cold winter weather at almost the beginning of the month of March !!!

Good morning to my reader and followers... 7:40am here. 
I am drinking my 2nd cup of hot coffee before I get going to my office.... 

it is cold out there.... minus -14 degrees (f)    -26 (C)

Hugs, Danielle

Brrrr, I could not live there. It's 73F (23C) here, but it's going to cool off tomorrow with an expected low of 35F (2C). Stay warm, Danielle!

Love always -- Jess

Its been around 7C down to freezing but they say going up to as much as 15C over the weekend. Below 10C is to cold for me!!

Definitely Brrr. It is 14 degrees here (at least we are above zero), and it is windy and icy.

I counted 10 Robins in a tree, shivering and discussing the "Early Spring" announced by some groundhog in PA.

I had an appointment and when I came back the Robins were still there! A loud noise spooked them and I counted them as they flew away. I was wrong, there were 11 in that tree.

Spring has unofficially arrived.  The Redbuds and Bradford Pears are blooming and the Dogwoods will probably start tomorrow.  Here, it isn't considered spring until Easter, but I always consider it "unofficially spring when these flowering trees bloom. 

  @REM.1126
Dear Rachel:
No Spring weather here anytime soon... Yesterday it was minus -22 deg(f) am this morning it was minus -16 deg(f) ...this afternoon it warmed up to +6 deg(f)   It has been spitting snow for several hours and more coming tonight.

When Spring does arrive here and it warms up to just above frezing the first thing here that will pop up are my Daffodils .... but it will be at least several weeks before that happens.

Thanks for sharing and posting.
HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: REM.1126 on March 04, 2024, 05:11:29 PMSpring has unofficially arrived.  The Redbuds and Bradford Pears are blooming and the Dogwoods will probably start tomorrow.  Here, it isn't considered spring until Easter, but I always consider it "unofficially spring when these flowering trees bloom. 

That's so cold, Danielle. Your cold actually comforts me. It's good to read that there's still a part of the world where it's cold.

Bit of light snow and frost over the weekend here, hope mums Magnolia bush is okay as there were a lot of buds on it. Foggy morning but the sun is out and they say 11C today!

Dinner update:  Friday, March 22, 2024

I closed my office around 4:30pm and drove home to make myself dinner.

I felt like having a "breakfast" dinner tonight.

    2 Eggs Sunny side up
    "Little" Link sausage 
    Toast with homemade strawberry Jam
    and a glass of Tomato Juice.
        (https://i.imgur.com/aZmidiDl.jpg)

HUGS, Danielle

March 22, 2024
Baking adventure after I got home from work and after I had dinner tonight:

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with hand kneaded dough and topped with a
very tasty Vanilla Buttercream Frosting: 
        (https://i.imgur.com/EpEjxcGl.jpg)

I made 2 pans ....I obviously had to taste-test it to make sure that it was OK.  I will
be taking the 2nd pan to my office tomorrow morning to share with my 2 part timers and
with my clients that come in, but they better come in early or they will be gone.

HUGS, Danielle

Hi Danielle,

I hope everything is going well during this tax season.

Ellen

@EllenW
Dear Ellen:
As expected this time of year, with the IRS Income Tax deadline less than a month away, it is
a very, very busy time for my business. This year I had hired 2 part time young ladies that
help me with answering my phone and entering tax data into my computers so that I can concentrate
on crunching the numbers and filing the proper tax forms for my clients.

I am in my office today (Saturday) and will probably
be in my office tomorrow on Sunday afternoon after I get out of church.

I am quite accustomed to this kind of work schedule... long hours, sometimes 7 days a week, but
after the month of April my schedule will be back to "normal" .... however being self-employed with
my own business, there is no normal schedule, and I like it that way.

When tax season is not in full swing I am still busy with handling monthly taxes and P&L statements
for my business clients.  I also do financial planning all year long for my clients.

Thank you Ellen for your comment on my Blog thread...  you are always welcome here.
HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: EllenW on March 23, 2024, 10:49:55 AMHi Danielle,

I hope everything is going well during this tax season.

Ellen

I have a friend who owns an accounting firm in Illinois. I helped him during tax season for three years before I moved away. I understand the hours. We worked from January 1 to May 1, seven days a week and 14-hour days. We worked 12 hours on Easter Sunday. He had four accountants who worked full-time with taxes and payroll and handled the walk-in clients. Two of us worked part-time in the back room, handling the mail-in tax returns. It was fun and he paid us well. But yikes, the hours!

1. I hope all is....go to line 4
2. If its light out skip to line ....7
3. Have a nice night
Skip to line 8
4.  well. Unless it isn't go to line ....5
5. I hope things get better
6. go to line ....2
7. Have a nice day.
8. Hang in there April 15th is coming.
Hugs Gina

Here is the new simplified tax form:

    Line 1:    Enter all Income
    Line 2:    Enter postage stamp cost to mail in the tax return.
    Line 3:    Subtract Line 2 from Line 1 and enter the amount on Line 4
    Line 4:    This is the amount that you owe... send it all in.

I love it!

Easter Sunday is tomorrow on March 31st
,
  After morning church I have invited a few of my friends over
to my home for Easter Dinner.

  I will be making a Ham Dinner, with Scalloped Potatoes, steamed veggies (probably Peas and/or Carrots),
a Salad of some kind and I will make either a Cake or a Pie for dessert.

  Let's not forget about the real reason for Easter...
      ...it is not about an Easter Bunny and decorated hard boiled eggs...
    (https://i.imgur.com/O2YpZVu.jpg)

HUGS and have a wonderful and blessed Easter Sunday.
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

My best friend and her sister have invited me to go with them to the local "Slop Trough"... our nickname for Golden Corral or any buffet-style restaurant. I am no cook, so I am happy to go out occasionally. I envy those of you who can and do cook. Ham and scalloped potatoes are some of my favs!

Happy Easter.

Leg of Lamb was the traditional Easter dinner for us.  This year it's just 2 of us, so we're having lamb chops.  Most likely with some kind of baked potatoes.  We have a little vanilla ice cream left from last weekend, so my wife is making a peach cobbler to go with it for desert.

The reason for Easter is not forgotten, Bless you Danielle.
Paulie. 

Good Easter Sunday morning:

To all of my followers and readers...  I trust that you have a good day today.

   I will be hosting Easter dinner at my home later today for some of my friends from my Gym-Gals
group and gals from church...
...all single and unattached and they would otherwise be alone for this special holiday.

  After morning church I have invited a few of my friends over
to my home for Easter Dinner.

  I will be making a Ham Dinner, with Scalloped Potatoes, steamed veggies (probably Peas and/or Carrots),
a Salad of some kind and I will make either a Cake or a Pie for dessert.

  For my planned dessert I made an Apple Pie last night ...I will serve it with Ice Cream.
HUGS, Danielle

(https://i.imgur.com/ddZRfnLl.jpg)
     
      (https://i.imgur.com/f2fjp2fm.jpg)  (https://i.imgur.com/BT3EzYsm.jpg)

           

crumbly short crust pastry?

Quote from: davina61 on March 31, 2024, 01:39:31 PMcrumbly short crust pastry?

 @davina61
Dear Davina:
YES, crumbly short crust pastry ...
...however I like my pie crusts to be a little less crumbly so I add a little vinegar
when I make my dough and when rolling it out I wet my fingers with water which helps
to hold the dough together as I form it, lay it down and pinch the edges on the pie dish.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on March 31, 2024, 01:34:05 PMI will be hosting Easter dinner at my home later today for some of my friends from my Gym-Gals
group and gals from church...
...all single and unattached and they would otherwise be alone for this special holiday.

I love that. I hope it went well and the food and company were great.

~Jenn

I envy your friends and clients.  You sure do make some good looking food.

YUM!!!!!!!!!

Danielle, it looks like your Easter was celebrated in proper style!

I hope tax season is not too crazy for you...there are always chocolate chip cookies to see you through!

Hey Danielle!


Happy Tax Day!


Just a few more hours?


~Jenn

Danielle,

Another tax season is coming to close. I hope you and your sweety can celebrate soon.

Ellen

cc:  @EllenW  @Oldandcreaky  @Jenn104
     @Emma1017  @REM.1126  @Gina P
     @LoriDee  @Sarah B  @davina61   and .....

TO ALL of my Readers and Followers:
Well, finally things are slowly warming up around my area... the
last week here we had mid-day temperatures are getting into the low 50's (f) but
the early mornings are still quite chilly... many mornings and this morning the
temperature was 18 deg(f) [-8C]
I am expecting my flower garden and vegetable garden to start budding very soon and
my lawn at home will need mowing very soon.

The TAX SEASON is now finally over... it was quite a rush in early April as it always is.
Since the close of the IRS tax season on April 15th I have been busy tidying up my
office and cleaning up the paperwork messes that were a result of all of the last
minute tax preparation work that my part-time gals and I performed.

Now, my work days are mostly back to normal, whatever that is !!!! ::)
I still have year-round tax work for local businesses and my regular year-round clients
that look to me for Financial Counseling.

Thank you to all of my readers and followers for coming to my Blog thread and sharing
your comments and thoughts.... you are always welcome here to post whatever is on your mind.

Many HUGS,
Danielle 

When I helped my friend at his accounting office during tax season, the big rush ended around the 12th. From then into May it was filing extensions and amended returns. THEN things calmed down into regular payroll and quarterly returns.

Do you have the same experiences there?

@LoriDee
Dear LoriDee:

YES...I will be busy with tax work for at least another month but not like the rush it was right before the April 15th deadline.

The EXTENSIONS have to be/should be filed BEFORE the due date....  the AMENDED returns anytime after they were originally submitted.  My work is now busy with both of those things.   

The IRS has really improved this year, many of my clients have reported that they have received their REFUNDS within a week of filing.  The last several years IRS refunds have taken up to many months, up to 6 months at times.

Filing extensions and amended returns is usually not a good plan for the tax filer.... it usually delays any refunds and triggers extra and unwanted scrutiny from the IRS agents and employees. .... definitely not a good thing.

Fortunately, my business continues all year with by business clients and my Financial Advising clients.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: LoriDee on April 20, 2024, 12:24:01 PMWhen I helped my friend at his accounting office during tax season, the big rush ended around the 12th. From then into May it was filing extensions and amended returns. THEN things calmed down into regular payroll and quarterly returns.

Do you have the same experiences there?

Hi Danielle

Thats good to hear that you will not be so stressed out and you will take a break that you so richly deserve.

As you know I will be away for a couple of days, I will be in contact sort off.

Take care and have a nice day, its crappy here miserable wet and cold, but I like it!

Love and Hugs
Sarah B
Official Greeter
@Northern Star Girl

Sounds like business is good. They tell me the only thing worse than to much business is not enough. But I find I have more fun when we are slow. Life seams to follow the guise of lots of work and plenty of money but no time to enjoy it. Not enough work, plenty of time but no money to do anything. Ahh, such is life.
Glad things are warming up, 18 at night, wow.

Monday and Tuesday at my office I am now mostly done with tax work but now I have
been tidying up the paperwork disarray with the help of one of my part time gals.

              (https://i.imgur.com/Zme6Y6et.jpg)

Starting this morning I am taking entire week and week end off to enjoy some free
time and going on a road trip toward Fairbanks and then the northwestern part
of Alaska "toward" Nome.  NOTE: Nome is not connected by roads and the
only way there is by Air or by Sea....  so we are not actually going to get there but
we will enjoy the scenery out that way.

My tooth fairy and I will also get some serious shopping done in in the bigger city
of Fairbanks. 

It has finally been warming up substantially the last couple weeks.  Late nights
and early mornings are still below freezing temperatures...this morning 23 deg (f)
but around noon and in the afternoons the temperatures are around 50 deg (f) 

HUGS, Danielle

Sounds like a fun and well-deserved vacation.
Great pic!

Have a good time dear, I have seen Nome on the telly!

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on April 24, 2024, 12:20:25 PMNome is not connected by roads and the
only way there is by Air or by Sea..

You forgot "dog sledding" as a way to get to Nome  :icon_evil_laugh:

Ellen

I should add that if you see any yellow metal-looking rocks, you can send them to me and I will pay the postage.  ;D

Quote from: LoriDee on April 24, 2024, 03:53:15 PMI should add that if you see any yellow metal-looking rocks, you can send them to me and I will pay the postage.  ;D

 @LoriDee
Dear LoriDee:
I imagine that they would be heavier than normal rocks
especially if they are solid yellow... but you would know best.

The postage could be expensive!!!!
HUGS, Danielle

After a busy time at my office during the tax season ... especially March and
the first half of April, I am taking time off to take take a mini-vacation
and time off to take a road trip with my Tooth Fairy around the state.

Started out on Wednesday morning April 24th...
On my vacation road trip with my Tooth Fairy....
... at noon we arrived in Fairbanks.... time for shopping at a big mall
where there is a large variety of clothing and home goods that are not
readily available where we live.
We stayed the night in Fairbanks then the next morning we continued on
our way with our trip, planning to get back home on the weekend.

Thursday, April 25th:  We have been on the road all day, we stopped at a
nowhere little side of the road town and checked in to a motel and now we
are getting dinner....  Turkey Club sandwich and Clam Chowder for me, and
Tooth Fairy has a Deluxe Cheeseburger and Onion Rings....
(https://i.imgur.com/PZxWuEY.jpg)

                  (https://i.imgur.com/5aLtBzG.jpg)
It tasted as good as it looks..... and we were hungry...
we didn't stop for lunch after we had breakfast.    I could not eat it all,
so I took the left overs into our motel and might have the rest for lunch
tomorrow.... there is a small refrigerator in the room so that is a good thing.

 Lots of nice scenery today....
    (https://i.imgur.com/9iCVNiX.jpg)

                    (https://i.imgur.com/LbbzwpW.jpg)

Friday, April 25th:  As I had mentioned, Tooth Fairy and I started out
going to Fairbanks on Wednesday .... a nice bigger city with lots of shopping that is not
available where we live.... we kinda went nuts buying clothes....  on the way
back from heading in other directions around Alaska we are going back to Fairbanks
to fill the SUV to overflowing with a final shopping trip to Costco for some
groceries and other stuff.


I will update later as my time permits....  returning home on Saturday or Sunday.

HUGS, Danielle

Beautiful scenery and yummy food.
And friends and shopping.
What a vacation! Thanks for sharing!
Be safe.

Hi Danielle and Tooth Fairy

I love the pictures especially the mountain view with the water and the food looks so delicious I could eat it off the screen.

Sounds like your shopping spree is based on the; "out with the old and in with the new".  That definitely is a vacation to remember, short (should be longer) and sweet.  As long as you have fun that is the main thing.

As Lori says; "stay safe and thank you for sharing your vacation with us"

Take care and have a nice weekend and when you get home please let us know that you arrived safely.

Love and Hugs
Sarah B
Official Greeter

The scenery is stunning! Enjoy the rest of your well-deserved mini-vacation!!!

Looks like a nice adventure, have fun XX

Beautiful scenery. Alaska would be great if it wasn't so cold. :) Enjoy your trip.
Hugs Gina

It can get very warm in Alaska some days.

Likely not as often near the Artic Circle though.

Danielle,

Your highway photos remind me of my wonderful trip through your state last summer. Beautiful waters\ways and amazing snowcapped mountains.

Enjoy your well-deserved time off.

Ellen

Danielle,

Sounds like fun. Gorgeous pictures of Alaska. Glad you're getting some time to decompress. Hugs
Mariah

I think your Tooth Fairy has good taste in food. That looked pretty appetizing.

Hi Everyone

I'm sorry but, Danielle's lunch is better looking and healthier.  Tooth Fairy's onion rings, just look to big to be such, they look more like Calamari (yummy).

Next time they should invite us as well.

Have a nice weekend everyone, well whats left of it.

Love and Hugs
Sarah B
Official Greeter

Tooth Fairy and I arrived back home very early this morning
from our mini-road-trip vacation driving around the state.

Our road trip was also an opportunity to do some serious shopping
at a bigger city....  Fairbanks, the 2nd biggest city in Alaska has
big shopping malls, a Costco, and other stores not found in our
little town.

We filled up our SUV to overflowing with home goods and foods that
are difficult to find where we live.

After a very busy couple of months of tax season work it was refreshing
to get away from my office. 

I am now rested and ready to tackle future work and leisure tasks.

HUGS, Danielle

Glad you are home safe and got to do some fun stuff. That is always a good thing.
Now, get back to work! Slacker.  ;D

A Costco? Whoa. I'm in the lower 48 and we don't have one of those. Impressive. Your road trip/vacay/fill-the-SUV trip sounds fun and thanks for taking us along with your photos.

Tuesday, April 30, 2024 update:

Since 2 days ago on Sunday when I returned from my road trip mini-vacation... I did not goto work at my office for more than an hour yesterday, and not be going in much today either.... taking time off and doing nothing related to work...
I still have my office open for walk-ins and phone calls, my part time gal is taking care of the phones and clients while I am away. She is filling up my appointment calendar with scheduled meetings with my clients... so I will still be working.

I could get accustomed to being retired, but the time is not yet.  At my home I was going to do some stuff outside but this morning it is COLD.... 19 deg (f) and cloudy....  [ minus -7 C] I will wait for it to warm up a little later this morning.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on April 30, 2024, 01:08:41 PMI could get accustomed to being retired

Danielle

Take from me, it is very easy to get accustomed to being retired.  :icon_geekdance:  :icon_headfones:

Ellen

A morning treat !!!!
(https://i.imgur.com/B5yvEkR.jpg) 

             (https://i.imgur.com/S8n3CUsl.jpg)

cc:  @EllenW  @Oldandcreaky  @Jenn104
      @Emma1017  @REM.1126  @Gina P
      @LoriDee  @Sarah B  @imallie
      @davina61  @BlueJay  @Moonflower  and ....

As most of my followers are aware, after Sunday church is over I usually
go out to lunch with several of my church gal friends: 
      (https://i.imgur.com/z2UhaeAl.jpg)

HUGS, Danielle

What a happy group of gals, led by your abundant joy.

There's nothing like a picture of smiling faces to cheer up my night. Thanks for sharing!!

Great Pics! always a joy to see your smile.

:)

~Jenn