ouch

We just got our accounts back for 2011 and we had a nasty surprise.  These days, in the UK self employed folk have to pay their tax in advance.  Only, this new rule, because of me not working much as a new mum, and Hub's first tax  year being only little because he was only half self employed this has only just hit us.  Obviously its not so bad once it has started because when we get to our tax bill next year, we will have paid most of it.  But the first year it kicks in, suddenly you are paying your income tax twice.  OUCH.  I am still kind of reeling from the shock actually.  Its a little like having the rug, or should I say, cushion, pulled out from under you.  Luckily we do have some savings which means that we are not going to have to go into debt over it.  But seriously.  There goes our cushion.  All that work I have done to shore ourselves up, and have something to fall back on, oh, and you know, in case something happens, or if the mortgage rates should go up and all.....  And kind of really annoying is that this is for Hub's income tax, and it will be a lot of my savings that are going to cover it.  Ah, marriage. 

As I write I am realising that it is GOOD that we have those savings there.  But in January we will be back on austerity measures as we scramble our way back to even keel.   Hub, thank goodness, is upbeat, positive and determined.  I am so very glad he is.  I am feeling really rather like 1 step forward 2 steps back about it.  And also a bit scared.  Perhaps this is all a good thing.  A fire under us, so to speak to start the new year with a rocket under our tails.  At least my work is going well.  Am picking up a lot of assisting gigs and the aim from their side and mine is that I start delivering the Productivity training in February.  OR at the latest early March.  That will help. 

Hub says that we should just enjoy Christmas and kick in with vigour in the New Year.  Its true that neither of us are likely to get any work over the Christmas period.  Now I am wishing I put more effort into promoting my Portrait business!  Anyone want a Portrait done?? Lovely Christmas gifts!!

Ah.  writing does help you work  it out in your head doesn't it.  We are going to be OK.

On another note we have been visiting schools lately.  I have no idea why they have this go choose a school and then put you into some sort of lottery system where everyone chases too few places.  All the schools around us are meant to be good.  But I do now have my favourites.  I hope that Bub does at least get a place in one of the 3 we are going to put down as our choices. 

My brother is coming to stay tomorrow.  Uncle babysitter!! Hub and I are going to the People Who Do Christmas dinner, which excitingly is going to be held in the Granary at Hawthbush Farm and cooked by a couple of Chefs who trained at Claridges.  YUM.