Why We’re Now Morris Holmquest Tidwell (And What It Means for You)
If you’ve been with us for a while, you may have noticed a change.
We’re now Morris Holmquest Tidwell.
The name reflects where this firm came from and how we think about our role today. The firm began in 1986, when Jim Morris and Nan Holmquest left a large CPA firm after it was acquired by a national organization. They believed individuals and small businesses were being overlooked in favor of large corporate clients.
They built something different.
In 1993, Mary Alice Tidwell joined the firm. Together, they shaped a practice centered on personal relationships, straightforward advice, and long-term thinking.
In 2024, after nearly four decades, Jim Morris sold the firm to me. I’m honored to carry it forward as managing partner. The work hasn’t changed. The values haven’t changed. The name now reflects the full history of the firm and the people who built it.
Why “Tying the Bell”
The title of this newsletter comes from an old fable called Belling the Cat. A cat threatens a group of mice. After plenty of discussion, they come up with a clever idea. Tie a bell around the cat’s neck so they’ll hear it coming.
They don’t.
Everyone agrees it’s a great plan. Then someone asks the obvious question. Who’s going to tie the bell? No one steps forward.
The lesson is simple. Good ideas are easy. Acting on them is harder.
Most people already know what responsible financial behavior looks like. Plan. Stay organized. Make decisions deliberately rather than reactively. Avoid letting fear, stress, or overconfidence take over.
The challenge isn’t knowing what should be done. The challenge is following through when the timing feels uncomfortable or the stakes feel high.
That’s where guidance matters.
My role isn’t just to provide technical answers or outline options. It’s to help people act. To slow things down when emotions creep in. To move from intention to execution when it matters most.
That’s what tying the bell really means. Not just identifying risks or talking through solutions but taking the step that turns a good idea into a real one.
This newsletter plays a small role in that process. It’s meant to surface what’s coming, reduce surprises, and make it easier to act early rather than react late.
Upcoming tax deadlines
Here are several important upcoming deadlines. Not every date applies to every situation, so please reach out if you’re unsure how these affect you.
One reminder that’s always worth repeating:
An extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay. Any tax owed is still due by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest.
Why “Tying the Bell”
Deadlines aren’t optional. Panic is.
Tying the Bell is about staying ahead of what’s coming. About clarity instead of surprise. About acting early, not reacting late.
Start your tax savvy journey
Whether you’re ready to get started or have questions about our firm, we’re here to help.
Call Derek: (432) 687-0243
Email Derek: hello@basinwealth.com
