A Little Bit of a Lot of Things

Since tax season has started, I want to make those of you who are not already aware of this, that if your yearly gross income was $56,000 or less you can e-file your taxes for free with the IRS using a Turbo Tax program. They figure everything for you, do all the math, etc. All you have to do is go to Irs.gov and click on the "It's Time to File" link. Near the bottom of the page that comes up (the entire page is dedicated to tax help and relief for distressed tax payers), it explains in detail about the e-file for free. You'll just need all your paperwork handy so that you can answer all the questions, and the program will do all the figuring for you. It's wonderful, and your refund will come within about 10 days or less, directly deposited into your bank account.

I've finally found somewhere to get all my hair services needs met! I'll be making my appointment later today for next week. It's 'Paul Mitchell The School -- Nashville'. Just Google it for all the information. It a Paul Mitchell school for cosmetology, and the students get part of their hands-on training by offering services to clients at incredibly low prices. They have two levels of students/stylists, based on experience. Phase I students offer hair styling at a mere $10, and $18 if you want coloring as well. For Phase II students, the price is $15/$22. They also offer facial and waxing services at very, very low prices. You just have to call the number under 'Guest Services' on their website to get their hours and to make an appointment. This is a wonderful program and in these hard economic times, it's a win/win situation for everyone! I'm thrilled at the idea of going there soon!

So, now we've covered an area of beauty; now let's move on to health. At the Coleman Community Center, 384 Thompson Lane, Nashville, you can use the gym and get a workout on the machines for only $2! They offer a variety of equipment and classes...even an indoor pool! A monthly membership is only $25. Now this is a deal that cannot be beat!

There's a very good website, if I haven't mentioned it already, called Nashvillest.com. You can find all sorts of local news and events, and deals, and wonderful, helpful, insightful information about local Nashville! I suggest checking it out, becoming a follower, whatever. I think you'll like it a lot.

I found this interesting fundraiser online for Nashville that needed some volunteers and sponsors, etc. At first I was interested, but the more I learned about it, the more I realized that only a portion was going to the cause it was supporting. That got me to wondering...just how much would go to the cause, and just how much was self-serving advertising for their own business? I decided not to volunteer with the fundraiser. Right now, the only organization I feel totally comfortable with is one called Charity Water. You can look them up at CharityWater.org. They build wells for people in developing nations that do not have safe drinking water. One hundred percent of the charity they raise goes to these projects. They have a wonderful website where you can see all the details. I heard the founder of this organization speak in person one night at my former church back in NJ. I fell in love with the organization totally, and the incredible work they are doing and how completely dedicated they are to these projects. I strongly suggest checking them out, and when you are even considering charitable donations, please think of their projects!

I think I've touched on a few penny-wise areas today and I'll save any more for next time!