I have a plaque in my kitchen that reads, “If it wasn’t for the last minute, nothing would ever get done.” So it’s no surprise that I am working feverishly to get this article done at the last minute. Just as it is no surprise that I just got my taxes done as well. At least with my taxes I have a few days to spare. I have to laugh though, to see on my Facebook page that I am not alone.

If you haven’t completed your taxes, it is probably too late to use a good accountant such as Bonney Lake resident and Chamber member Sue Zimmerman of Horiuchi and Zimmerman Accounting. Although you might be able to file an extension, then make an appointment with her for a later date. If you are a “do-it-yourselfer.” I’m pretty sure Office Depot still has a few copies of Turbo Tax left.

Once you have filed, its either going to be good news or bad news. I’m going to look on the bright side of things and assume you have a refund coming. I have plenty of great suggestions for how you can spend your refund. You could either treat yourself or do something practical. Here are some suggestions.

If you are going for practical, you might want to get some tires for your car at Les Schwab Tires. Perhaps your car needs a tune-up. If so, give A&S or Ernie’s Auto Repair a call. Make that chiropractic appointment you’ve been putting off. Henschell Chiropractic, Lake Tapps Chiropractic and Mountain View Chiropractic and Wellness Center would all be great choices. Need new carpets and flooring? Give Cascadia Floors a call. Another suggestion for your refund would be to save it. Open up a certificate of deposit or an individual retirement account at one of the many banks or credit unions in Bonney Lake.

Do something for your kids. Sign them up for dance at Dancemakers Northwest or Michelle’s Studio of Dance. Dance is not their thing? How about Karate at Kaizan Shotokan Karate?

I say treat yourself, do something fun with your money. Get a massage at Massage Envy or buy some makeup from Mary Kay representative Roberta Sallustio. Hire a personal trainer at Body Logic or join a gym – Prime Fitness has a great facility. Of course you will need some new running shoes from Fleet Feet if you are going the fitness route.

You may also want to take this opportunity to support some of the businesses who have been affected by all of the construction and road closures, such as Dolce Vita Day Spa or New Appearances Salon.

Is that refund going to be a little smaller than expected? Go to dinner at Zato Grill, then a movie at the Regal Tall Firs. Do you actually owe taxes? Check out the great selection of books at the library.

As you can see, no matter what you decide to do with your tax money, be sure to spend it in Bonney Lake. You can find out more information about each of these businesses by going to the chamber Web site at www.bonneylake.com and click on the business listings. Be sure to tell them the chamber sent you.