So - dry question first! I just did my taxes, and am starting to wonder: should we actually try to encourage or discourage behaviors by paying for them? Doing one's taxes is just so darn complicated! Yes, I think people need a break in certain circumstances; yes, I'm a raving liberal, but, as it stands, I think there are too many loopholes, exceptions, complications - it's just so difficult. Wouldn't it be better to just have a very simple graduated tax based strictly on income? No loophole, no exceptions, no attempts to guide behavior by giving people tax breaks? It would certainly be easier!

And - here is a pic I love: it was from CNEWA and is of a young teen in a library in India. For those who know - or care - when I saw this pic, I instantly said, "Niki!". My fictional character has darker skin and her hair's a bit shorter and not so curly - but this little girl just reminds me of her.

I also love what she's apparently holding!