The Good Life Report 4.15.2020

"A good compromise is one where everybody makes a contribution."

- Angela Merkel

Seared Scallops

Serves 4

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1¼ lbs. scallops, fresh
3 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cubed
1½ Tbsp garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup broth or dry sherry
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
¼ cup parsley, chopped

Directions:

Remove side muscle from scallops, if attached.
Pat dry with paper towels.
Heat oil over medium-high heat until sizzling.
Add scallops in batches without overcrowding.
Season with salt and pepper and cook until lightly browned on each side, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Transfer seared scallops to plate.
In the same pan, melt 2 Tbsp. of butter, mixing with browned leftovers from scallops.
Add garlic and cook for one minute.
Pour in broth/sherry and simmer for 2 minutes.
Add remaining butter and lemon juice, then stir.
Remove pan from heat, return the scallops and gently toss in butter mixture.
Garnish with parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Recipe adapted from cafedelites.com[1]

You May Be Able to Deduct Childcare Expenses

If you pay for childcare, so that you can work or look for a job, you may be able to deduct those expenses on your federal tax return. Here's what the IRS wants you to know:

You can only deduct expenses for the care of a qualifying dependent, such as a child under age 13.
You must be paying for care that allows you or your spouse to work.
Qualifying care includes home care, daycare, or a day camp. Overnight camps, summer school tutoring, or care by other dependents do not qualify.
You must have earned income in the year that you incur childcare expenses. The expense limit is $3,000 for one qualifying dependent or $6,000 for two or more.

For more information about deductions for dependent care, visit IRS.gov or consult a qualified tax advisor.

* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov[2]

Where's Your Golf GPS Watch?

No, you don't have to own a golf GPS watch to enjoy a round - but once you get one, you might wonder how you ever managed to play well without it. Wearing a golf GPS watch is almost like having a pro and a caddy at your side for all 18 holes.

How far is it to the pin, and how much carry do you need to get over that ravine? The watch can tell you. How is your putting form today? Check your watch. You've never played this course before; would you like a hole-by-hole breakdown? Your watch probably has one (the best-hold data on 30,000 to 40,000 layouts). For about the price of a cheap PC, these timepieces provide a world of information, while keeping score - and most are tough and waterproof. Think about buying one.

Tip adapted from T3.com[3]

Plant-based meals have increased in popularity over the years, but for those who might be skeptical about how to meet their daily nutritional needs, especially protein, read on to learn more. But one quick note before you do: this information isn't a substitute for medical advice. Be sure to consult your health provider and registered dietitian before making alterations to your diet. Some of the best options for plant-based protein include:

Soy products. Tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and edamame are all great options, and they're rich in unsaturated fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Legumes. Beans, chickpeas, lentils, and peanuts are packed with protein, high in magnesium and other micronutrients, and full of fiber.
Nuts and seeds. Almonds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds - just to name a few.
Some whole grains. Quinoa, amaranth, and teff are all good choices.
Wheat gluten. If you can tolerate gluten, seitan can be a fantastic substitute for meat.

Now that you have the raw ingredients, look for recipe ideas on sites like Pinterest. You might even discover your next favorite meal. Tip adapted from MedicalNewsToday.com[4]

Spring Clean Your Refrigerator

Is your spring cleaning in full swing? Don't forget to take care of one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen: your fridge. Not only will it look lovely, but you'll be reducing your carbon footprint in your kitchen too.

Do you know what the temperature of your fridge and freezer are? If your fridge is colder than 35° F or your freezer is colder than 0° F, that's wasting energy. Use a fridge and freezer thermometer to see how cold it really is, and adjust the temperature accordingly.

Does your freezer look like the North Pole? It's time to defrost and clean it out. Your freezer should never have more than a quarter-inch of frost inside. Frost build-up drastically reduces the efficiency of your freezer and increases your electric bill.

Tip adapted from RealSimple.com[5]

[1] CafeDelites.com, April 9, 2020.

[2] IRS.gov, January 30, 2020.

[3] T3.com, April 9, 2020.

[4] Medical News Today, April 9, 2020.

[5] RealSimple.com, April 9, 2020.