I am always on the lookout for deductions that benefit my income tax clients, and if you're just starting out on your business as a writer, or are a published pro, don't overlook the importance of logging the miles driven to the events or places that support your writing business. This includes miles I drive to my region's Society of Children's Book Writers and  Illustrators events, my critique group meetings, miles driven to browse writer's magazines at Barnes and Noble, miles driven to Staples for printer toner and of course, miles driven to the bank to deposit those payments for my literary creations :) You get the idea.

Now is a good time to log in those miles in your 2012 calendar. By the end of the year you'll be surprised at how many miles you've logged to deduct at tax time. A deduction of $0.50 a mile might just translate into an easy way for you to get some relief next April 2013. A notebook thrown in your car or purse can track the round trip miles, date of travel, and the purpose of the trip. Don't forget to tally the miles up for your tax person at the end of the year. For more information on business expense deductions download the  IRS Publication 463 for information on travel, entertainment, business gifts, and car expenses.

    I got a call last week from Max who said he oversees the board at Murieta Equestrian Center, Northern California's Premier Events All Weather Facility. Well, imagine my surprise, MEC wants little ole me to be on their board. After a bit more into the converstation I realized that my new BFF, Max, wasn't talking about the board of directors for MEC. I don't even think there is a board of directors.
    Turns out Max oversees the advertisement 'board' located on the wall just inside the entrance of the main arena. Better known as The Information Center. Anyway, Max thought the 'board' needed a tax preparer up there with Elk Grove Milling, John Deere, etc. So my tax preparation ad is now displayed along with some very impressive vendors.
    If you are not familar with the facility go to MEC's website. I'm sure you'll find an event on their calendar complete with beautiful horses and talented riders for the whole family to enjoy! Below is the ad that is now displayed. It was created for me by Ken Jackson. He does all the ad copy for The Information Center at MEC.

My new blog will feature all sorts of information on children's books, farm life, family life and yes being a tax preparer. As part of my first post, I am including a short video on my web designer and picture book teacher Dr. Mira Reisberg's upcoming Hero's Art Journey e-course. She takes students on a journey of discovery and empowerment with lots of video demonstrations, lesson plans, and interviews with top children's book illustrators, authors and even a couple of agents. Here's the link to find out more www.herosartjourney.com