01/13/2026
This winter feels different: it’s my first in 5 years outside of audit and tax busy season, and while I’m grateful for what I learned, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I don’t miss those days: the long hours, the short weekends (if any), the deadlines, and the audit surprises.
But I do miss the small things: the early-morning coffee rituals at the office, dark empty parking lots, the spontaneous office laughter, and going through multiple busy seasons with the same coworkers.
There’s something about suffering together and showing up early that creates a real bond. When you’re walking in half-awake with a coffee in hand, season after season, you learn who people really are under pressure.
I have a lot of respect for the auditors in the middle of it right now.
To everyone in nonprofit audit season — mad respect, and godspeed.