Was there a tax thing that started this year that made people's paychecks increase somewhat? Because when I checked my direct deposit today, my paycheck was somewhat higher than it used to be.

Yep!

Yes, there was a payroll tax reduction this year. I don't think it's only small business, but I haven't been paid yet this year.

Here she is performing the song @ HOB NO. [link]

Jesse, 1. I've never done it, but I hear people do; 2. yes, or at least unfrozen enough so you can, you know, mix them into the batter.

Not just small businesses - my check was higher this morning too.

Not just small businesses - it's because of the thing where The Guvernment hates America so much that they're raising everyone's taxes. By lowering them.

Thanks, flea! Good call re: mixing.

1. I opened a bottle of wine last weekend when I was making stew, but never drank the rest of it. Can I freeze it now for later use in cooking? That seems like something I've heard of.

I think so -- I feel like I read something about cleverly freezing it in ice cube trays so you have small portions. But don't take my word on it, since I'm not sure.

2. If I'm going to make zucchini bread out of frozen shredded zukes in my freezer, do I thaw it first?

Not only thaw it, but then press it between paper towels to get the excess water out of it, or else you might have too much liquid in your batter and the bread might be funky. Learn from my tragic mistake.

Was there a tax thing that started this year that made people's paychecks increase somewhat? Because when I checked my direct deposit today, my paycheck was somewhat higher than it used to be.

Yep!

Woo!

I also got a random refund check from my dentist yesterday. The letter said something about how they "estimate their copays" (WTF?) because they deal with so many insurance companies, which I assume means "We charge you what sounds right and is most likely to not screw us financially, and then when we see what your insurance pays, you might get a refund."

So since I had so many goddamn fillings done in the fall, I apparently overpaid to the tune of $125. So I am going to squander it at Sock Dreams. Well, not all of it. But still. Socks, woo!

Was there a tax thing that started this year that made people's paychecks increase somewhat? Because when I checked my direct deposit today, my paycheck was somewhat higher than it used to be.

Oh wow, eight more dollars! Cool! That's a burrito!

Was there a tax thing that started this year that made people's paychecks increase somewhat? Because when I checked my direct deposit today, my paycheck was somewhat higher than it used to be.

It's a reduction in social security withholding.

Offset 100% in Illinois by an increase in state income tax, whoot! And people wonder why the stimulus hasn't been very stimulating.