Christmas

It's Christmas Day, everyone, and hope it's been a merry one for you. We've had a good one - traditional morning with gifts, then this afternoon we headed for Pittsburgh where we had a nice dinner and enjoyed some of the city lights. Now we are at the Hyatt Hotel at the airport which is NICE. My daughter is flying out for Japan early in the a.m. from here - she's spending three weeks there to meet the requirements for her January-term class for her university. She'll be living with a missionary family and recording their life and work on film. I'm proud of her!

Still lots of Family Court work to do through the 31st - I didn't work yesterday or today, of course, and also don't plan to work tomorrow. But I'm working Saturday (no doubt with the Meineke Car Care Bowl on in the background - yes, there's a TV in my courtroom (sometimes needed for video exhibits) - and Sunday. Monday is my last day of hearings and it should be a booger - about 40 domestic violence. Tuesday is my final paperwork, etc., day, and Wednesday morning I have 10 weddings scheduled. My staff is taking me out for a nice lunch and then in the afternoon and evening I'll finish cleaning out my court room and office. No doubt I'll write more of my thoughts before all that is done - goodnight for now and once again, Merry Christmas to all.

One week 'til Christmas

Man! Cannot believe time has gone this fast, and that Christmas is one week away. I haven't had my head around Christmas this year like I normally do - no surprise maybe.

Took my staff to Deer Park Inn near Buckhannon for a nice dinner, last Saturday evening. It was for Christmas, it was to say thank you for all your hard work on my campaign, and also to say thank you for being great co-workers and good friends these past many years. Judy has been with me almost 14 years and Kellee, almost 10. My current bailiff, Chad, who's been with me over a year was there too. Deer Park is a beautiful place - my wife kidnapped me there for an anniversary getaway several years ago and we've been back twice before last week, once for a romantic Valentine's Day dinner and once for a Christmas Day buffet with family and friends.

Our tree is beautiful and I got a special early gift - an automatic tree-watering device cleverly disguised as a beautiful package. There's a big tag on it, "To Dad, from Your Family." No more squatting under the tree and getting everything wet! :) It's working great as long as I keep the "package" filled which I have to do about once a week.

We're having a lot of our Christmas celebration this weekend. My oldest and his wife are coming in from Tennessee - they are spending Christmas Eve and Christmas with her family in the Nashville area this year. #2 son and his wife usually have still spent Christmas Eve and Christmas morning with us but this year, will be with her family in Wheeling. #3 son is on duty from early Christmas Eve till 3:00 p.m. on the 26th at the residential home for troubled youth where he works! And so...on Christmas Eve night and Christmas morning, it'll be my wife, my daughter, our youngest son and me. Very, very different - but we'll have some semblance of a traditional celebration by going to church Christmas Eve and opening some gifts Christmas morning. Then, that afternoon, we head for Pittsburgh, since my daughter is flying out for Japan about 6:30 on the 26th. She'll spend three weeks there with a missionary family, documenting their life and work in photographs and film, as part of her Independent Study/"J-term" class with her college.

I had domestic violence hearings on Monday of this week and have a "rocket docket" today. We opened the day to the local bar to bring us cases which really can get in and out quickly. After today, I have one day of hearings set - December 29 - and it should be a doozy! It'll be a domestic violence day and from what we can tell, there will be a bunch.

On the 31st, my last day, the Court House closes at noon but I'll be here afterwards, still cleaning out, etc. During the morning, I'm opening my Court Room for weddings and so far nine have been scheduled. The press has done a nice job of giving us publicity on this and also the TV and print news have told me they plan to be here some that day to get some coverage. It's a nice way to say "thank you" to the community and also a nice way to "go out," doing weddings which definitely are one of the more fun and positive things I get to do in this job. I'm glad I'll still be able to do weddings after 12/31 since I have a ministry license - hey, I could even get paid for them in that capacity!

Oh, you're wondering about my job after 1/1? ME TOO! There have continued to be things come up even after 12/6, when I last posted - and I may have something firm though temporary. Not sure yet at all though - I am planning to try and do some mediations, and court-appointed guardian ad litem work, and things of that nature to keep busy and earn a little income. There are four or five things I am very, very interested in, but none of them will be open till after the first of the year. Many of them won't be available until summer or early fall at the earliest.

To all of you, have a blessed Christmas and a wonderful 2009.

Snow!

A very, very Christmasy day. Got the tree yesterday and I wrestled it into yet another new stand last night. And belatedly ordered myself a Christmas gift! You say - how could it be belated since Christmas is almost three weeks away? Well...it's a "Quench-a-Tree" tree watering system which I meant to order right after Christmas last year, to have it ready to go. But...it's being shipped from California, 2nd day air on Monday. Looks like a Christmas package and holds more than 5 gallons of water - so if it works as hoped, I'll be watering the tree here for a couple of days and not again :)

Judge Staker

It's Friday morning early and yesterday was consumed by the trip to and from Huntington, for Judge Staker's funeral. I dropped my youngest off at school and just kept on going.

Judge Staker was appointed by President Jimmy Carter to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of West Virginia and took the bench in late September 1979. Before that, he had been a Circuit Judge in his native Mingo County for 10 years and before that, a private lawyer for several years in Williamson, Mingo County. When he became a Federal judge, he was just about the age I am right now. I, on the other hand, was a 23-year-old brand new lawyer, and as they say "I didn't know nuthin about nuthin."

I was blessed to be one of his first three law clerks. One of the others was a woman from Huntington who had "gone back" to school and had just finished - she was in her mid-thirties with a lawyer-husband and two small daughters. The other was a fellow from Buffalo, N.Y., who had sought out a clerkship by sending resumes to newly-appointed judges throughout the country. In some ways, we were an unlikely team, but it was fortuitous (at least for we three clerks) that we all were brought together. This was a dream job, the type of job that many told me "you will never get because you have no connections." Well....let me give credit where credit is due and say that God opened up a door for me there, no doubt -

Clerking for a United States District Judge was a wonderful entree into the profession of law. Clerking for this man, Judge Staker, in particular was an unbelievably wonderful experience. He was almost paternal but never patronizing in his desire to "bring us along" for the ride of establishing his new court. He was interested in us personally as well as professionally. It was the type of first job all of us can only hope to have - the type you would want your child to experience after all the dreaming, all the planning, all the hard work, all the expense of preparing yourself for "what you want to do when you grow up."

Although I haven't seen the Judge often since I left his employ in the early 1980's -clerkships generally are designed to be short-term positions, and all three of us were gone by about the end of 1982 - and I also haven't seen my two law-clerk colleagues often - we've kept in touch enough to stay connected. Not as much as I would have liked - but we've touched base. The Buffalo native now has three children, and went back to Buffalo where he practices tax law. The Huntington native and her husband raised their daughters and retired from the law and moved to the Charlottesville, Va., area, where he runs a B&B and she works as an editor for a small (non-law related!) publishing company. (They are said to be "recovering lawyers" :) And I am where am I am. I have to admit - sometimes when I'm on the bench, I hear Judge Staker's words coming out of my mouth. I hope that doesn't sound like I'm bragging - I'm a poor imitation of the man, but he did have an impact on me. During this year of career transition in my own life, I've often wanted to talk to Judge Staker, to get his insight and advice; unfortunately, his first stroke occurred shortly after the primary election, and he's been quite ill and mostly unable to communicate well since then. None of the three of us had gotten to see him since he fell ill - he was in a nursing home when he passed - but we got the word that he would prefer not to be seen this way and certainly we wanted to and did honor that.

The last time the four us had been together was September 30, 2005, when we celebrated Judge Staker's retirement. (I have a picture taken of us that day on my computer somewhere but can't find it right now! I will post it here if and when I am able to locate it - some of my friends out there have suggested I need to do a better job of posting pictures on this blog and I will try, promise.) He and his wife could have had dinner with anyone present but they sought the three of us out and invited us to be their guests. It's special to me that my youngest son, who was 8 and had never met the Judge, was with me. (Judge Staker was a wordsmith and my son took great pride in telling him that I had taught him to use the word "accoutrement" with the explanation that that was a favorite word of Judge Staker's! If you catch me in person sometime, ask me what the "accoutrement" was --)

It's poignant to think that the three of us might not be together again at the same place in this lifetime. Unless we just make it happen, considering the geographic distances, our histories of contact and the realities of life, it's hard to imagine how that might occur. But it was special to be together for those early years of our careers with Judge Staker, and it was special and appropriate for us to be together again yesterday to say farewell to this great mean who touched each of our lives so much.

December

Well, it's the last month here. My staff and I were a little melancholy yesterday, but not a whole lot of time for that since it was domestic violence day. Today, no hearings, and so we had a meeting this a.m. to plan out each day for the rest of the month. Tomorrow -- unless there's a surprise on one of the remaining DV days -- will be my final mega-mega hearings day. I start at 8:30 and will feel lucky if I'm done by 8:30 on the other end. Kellee, Judy and Chad (my Bailiff) already know I'm good for dinner in. My problem will be finding five minutes to wolf it down! And - forget lunch!

I'm not complaining. Maybe I am! But in a warped way I will miss days like tomorrow. Hmmm...something wrong there. Ah well!

My first boss, Judge Robert J. Staker, a great man, passed away late Sunday. He had been very ill since this summer. His funeral is Thursday in Huntington and I will be there. I was one of his first Law Clerks and the other two, Christ Gaetanos of Buffalo, N.Y., and Ginna Colburn who now lives in Charlottesville, Va., will join me along with many, many others I'm sure. Christ and Ginna and I had not been back together perhaps in 20 years until we met for Judge Staker's retirement reception September 30, 2005. After it was over, the Judge and his wife took the three of us out to dinner. Incredibly special time - not just then, but also working for him. It was a wonderful privilege to start my career under the tutelage of a mentor so knowledgeable and so caring.

Judge Staker's loss really makes me think back on this year. I have been very, very blessed in my life overall, and one of the particular ways is in my career in the law. While this year has handed me quite a setback - losing the election still smarts like the dickens - I cannot complain about the wonderful jobs I've had. I was told I would never get a clerkship in U.S. District Court and I did - and I have to thank God for it. Oh, I applied - yes, I made the effort - but the people who discouraged me were right to the extent that I shouldn't have had that honor and privilege. But I did. There have been other bumps in my career path beyond the loss of the election - but to have had the chance these past fourteen years to sit on the Family Court bench has been another impossible dream come true. And so, I look forward to the next opportunity, the next challenge, the next chance to serve. I don't mean to sound so noble but I do mean to sound positive.

This month will be devoted to finishing this job. I have several more hearings. I have about 6 files waiting for me to make decisions, some of them rather complex. There are files to clean out and things to take home. And, yes, there will be time devoted this month to the continuing job search. TWO new job possibilities were made known to me just today, and no less than six were presented to me during the month of November alone.

This month also is Advent and we will prepare for the Christmas celebration too, certainly, in our family, in our home, and most importantly in our hearts - our I will do my best to do that personally, anyway. By the way, we just had a wonderful Thanksgiving at my oldest son's (and his wife's) brand new home in Knoxville, Tennessee. The whole family was there, including my best friend and his wife with whom I've spent Thanksgivings since 1978! (Although their kids, my nephew and niece, who are now both old married people, weren't there - but we talked to them which was nice.) It was a great way to christen this home that he designed and did most of the finish construction work on. A lot of friends and family have pitched in and now they have a beautiful and comfortable new home.

Don't know how often I'll be posting this month. It will be busy! I am planning a celebration for my staff, for Christmas, to thank them for their incredible help during the campaign, to thank them for their good and faithful service to me and the Family Court and the public all these years, but most of all to just enjoy spending time with some pretty amazing people.

God bless everyone out there. Have a blessed Christmas season. That reminds me! We need to find the perfect tree - that'll be next on the agenda -

Sr. High Convention

I am in Parkersburg attending my...let's see...38th Sr. High Convention in a row! God has been good to be, I've been able to attend every one since I became old enough to attend as a student. And, for seven years, I had the privilege of being an advisor to the planning team. Lots of great memories. The pastor of the church where this year's Convention is being held was one of the members of the first State Youth Committee (now called Youth Ministry Planning Team) I worked with! Wow, that makes me feel old...

Speaking of old, thanks to all who made my birthday on Wednesday a truly great day. My staff took me out for a terrific lunch and my wife kept up the tradition of making me (from scratch) a great German chocolate cake! Dinner with the family was wonderful and yes, I did get a gift or two. Lots of fun.

Tuesday was my last "regular" day of hearings. That's a little misleading, because I have domestic violence hearings every Monday through Dec. 29 except one; I have expedited hearings on December 10; I have a few clean-up proceedings on the morning of December 4; and on December 3 - forget it. I have over 40 contempt and modification matters set which will take me from early in the morning until late in the evening. But all of those are "special" or emergency-type hearings with a specific deadline under the law as opposed to the kind of regular scheduling we have always done. So when I hung up my robe on Tuesday evening about 6:00, it was kind of poignant, especially because no one else was left in the office at that point. I turned out the light and closed the door feeling like it was a point of closure - but not too sad, especially because I knew I was going to be treated nice all day the next day. Now doesn't that sound like a little kid? HA!

Some very, very interesting things happening on the job front. All I can say about that for now - again, sorry to be so mysterious. But speaking of mysterious - if I get a chance today during free time, I think I'll try to catch the new 007 movie. My son, who knows my taste well, told me he thinks I'll love it - that it's the first Bond movie where all the action makes sense, like it all really could happen the way it's portrayed.

Well, I've finished my coffee and it's time to get on the road. Oh - road, that reminds me, we are headed for Knoxville for Thanksgiving to enjoy the holiday with our oldest son and his wife in their brand new house which he designed! They are moving in this weekend and so we will celebrate the holiday and the completion of their home all together this week. Looking forward to that and hoping all of you have a blessed Thanksgiving -

Summit minutes

The regular meeting of the North Central West Virginia Regional Quarterly Judicial Summit was held at Firkin & Fox, Morgantown, on November 14, 2008. Present were regular members Judge Culpepper (host), Judge Born, Judge Fantasia, and Judge Crislip, and new members Judge Smallridge and Judge Tallman. Judge Longo was absent, having "forgotten to check her e-mail."

While there definitely was a social component to the evening and as they say "a good time was had by all," the serious business of the Summit (besides the naming of Judge Culpepper as "Consummate Jurist of the Quarter," complete with presentation of a lovely certificate suitable for framing or laminating) was the economic environment, particularly that related to the business of law and the judiciary. The importance of this obviously did not go unnoticed, for an article about this important meeting was a front-page headline in the Saturday, November 15, Clarksburg Exponent-Telegram - or at least, that story was about some summit somewhere which addressed some kind of economic issue of some sort.

Contrary to popular belief, there will be no "sunset of the summit" and the next meeting was set with Judge Fantasia to host.

Respectfully submitted,

Post-Election

Well...my Family Court friends who were opposed in the general election all have joined me in the ranks of the unemployed. A disappointing exclamation point to a tough election year for Family Court incumbents! One of our judges won the primary for Circuit Judge in May and was unopposed this week, and another Family Court Judge who was appointed to the Circuit Court bench to fill a vacancy about 1-1/2 years ago won not only in the primary but also the general. But...any sitting Family Court judge opposed in the general election lost.

I'm bummed for my friends and frankly for the folks of our State. A lot of good folks were beaten and I'm not talking about myself now. A lot of experience, a lot of dedication - ah well.

Of course, I know that many people find themselves dissatisfied with the Family Court but there are a lot of unfair criticisms. When the issues are as close to the heart as family issues, I understand, I truly do. Still, I'm disappointed for my friends and hoping the best for them.

A friend of mine - not a judge or even a lawyer - did win a County Commission race in W.Va. against a long-time incumbent! Good for him!

Election Day

Hmmm...I sure don't want this to be all about me - 'cause it's sure NOT - but let me just say this day has been a little bittersweet. A pleasant day, all in all. Very nice weather-wise, 70's and sunny, and I got to spend the day at home with our youngest. Very glad I got voting out of the way last Friday and did not need to go to the polls today.

I'm certainly very concerned about the national elections, esp. the Presidency, but on a more personal note several of my friends are in contested races around the State for Family Court, Circuit Court, and other offices. Having "been there," I'm "with them" in spirit in a way I could never have been in the same way before my own campaign experience. Since I'm still not permitted to state public support for any candidate for any position (judicial ethics) I can't identify them by name but - you know who you are! I'm with you and hoping the best!

For me, even though I still regret losing in May, the best obviously wasn't to continue full time on the bench. Still not 100% sure what I will be doing after 1/1 but another interesting option has just presented itself - we'll see. I know I can be a Senior Status judge and definitely will do that unless I find myself in a full-time position which won't permit me to do that temporary and occasional work as well. I'm very interested in continuing to work toward improvement of the judiciary and have at least two potential opportunities career-wise in that area -

Looking forward to watching the election results this evening and then to other things further into November - let's just say it's my favorite month -

Fall Back

Greetings from the finest place on Earth, Camp Cowen! Here with my youngest son's first church youth retreat. Didn't get here 'til 3:00 today, even though it started last night, due to the class I'm teaching on Saturdays at Fairmont State. It was quite warm during the afternoon and we got in a lot of four-square - one of my favorite sports. This evening it's cool. There were 3" of snow here earlier this week!

We get the extra hour of sleep tonight - going back to Standard Time. I'm going to enjoy that hour! It's just past midnight pre-fall back time and I'm going to hit the hay here shortly.

A couple of interesting developments on the job front...but as always, I can't be too detailed here for many reasons. Will keep you posted -

Election Day is Tuesday. I early-voted yesterday. Decided I didn't want to go to the polls this year - just felt better to get it done early.

Good night from Camp Cowen!

Boss's Day

Today is - or was supposed to be - Boss's Day at my office! It really was October 16 but we were swamped that day, and originally we had this whole week and next marked of for the Election - no need for these two weeks to be marked off now, unfortunately -

BUT! One of my staff members is not here today - she stood me up! Now what's that all about?!? :) No, she's ill, and was yesterday too. So hope she's on the mend. We'll do Boss's Day lunch another day.

It has occurred to me, though, that this is the last such event my staff and I will get to share. That's making me feel just a bit sad.

However - we always celebrate birthdays too, and mine is in three weeks. (Speaking of birthdays, today is my boy Cameron's #27. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUB, C2, Cam-o, or whatever I'm calling you these days!)

And...of course we'll have a special Christmas lunch or event. I really owe at lot to Judy and Kellee, not just for their faithful and hard work for me and with me over the years, but also for all they did for me in the election process. I haven't yet properly thanked them so I'm going to have to think of something particularly nice for our Christmas celebration.

I've been saying all along if I don't have something firm by Nov. 1, I'll start making plans to do my own thing. Well - Nov. 1 is this Sat. and while I do have an offer - I'm definitely not yet sure. Hmmmm....I'm wondering if the results of the Election will make a difference in my job prospects - it's occurred to me that there are certain outcomes which might do just that - we'll see if there's anything to that or not shortly, I suppose.

Tomorrow night is Trick or Treat, maybe my youngest's last one. A lot of transitions in my life - that's part of the plan for all of us, though. His first youth retreat is this weekend, at Camp Cowen and (of course) I'll be there.

Probably my last post for October so see you in November - "the best month."

Greetings from Nevada

I'm in Nevada for a conference. Reno - "the biggest little city in the world." I've been here before. Part of this area is beautiful and part of it is - well - it's a little depressing to see slot machines all around. In the laundromats even!

The conference I'm attending is great, on judicial ethics.

I was awake for 22 hours+ when I arrived at my hotel in Reno but got reasonably caught up on my sleep before I had to be at the conference site.

Reno does have one amazing thing - a whitewater raft river park running right through the middle of town. The foothills around the city are quite beautiful, too. And, it's about 1-1/2 hours from Lake Tahoe, on the California/Nevada border, which is breathtaking.

By the way - make sure you pronounce it correctly! It's NOT Ne-VOD-a. It's Ne-VAH-da. The middle initial is pronounced like vat, not like VODka. I learned the hard way!

Oh...and I have a job offer. More on that later...'nuff said for now. We'll save the rest for an entry from home, or wherever I might find myself later on... :)

Ides of October

I guess you can call the 15th of any month the "ides," right? I really have no idea what that means, other than March 15 is "the ides of March," like in Julius Caesar. Ah well - I needed a title!

I see this is the first post of October - a slow month for blogging. We enjoyed Forest Festival the first weekend. This weekend, I have Youth Leader Core in Summersville which I'm looking forward to very much, and then I fly out for a conference in Reno, Nevada. I'll try to post a note from there.

Just about two-and-one-half months left on the bench. I've been saying all along that Nov. 1 was my deadline, to start more intentionally planning to open my own office if I don't have anything else firm. Well...nothing yet...but a few things pending...

Actually my trip to Reno may bring some things into focus...more later.

Worthy of a blog entry

I've obviously slowed down some on this - only my 4th entry this month. A busy time, a lot happening.

Nothing new - or maybe I should say a lot new, but nothing firm - on the job front as of today. For obvious reasons, I don't want to be too disclosive here, just yet. This blog is disclosive enough as it is for now! Don't worry - when I know what I'm going to be doing, for sure, "you'll be the first to know."

Yesterday, when I was driving home from work, I noticed that the spot where one of my campaign billboards was is now featuring a "Jesus, I trust in You" billboard. And so I do! My wife said, "That's worthy of a blog entry." Hence, the title.

My first boss, Judge Robert Staker, a great man and a great mentor over the years, is quite ill. Diagnosed with a brain tumor recently with surgery immediately following. He had had two slight strokes in the past few weeks and now it's believed they were caused by the tumor. The Judge is 85 and I ask you to pray for him and his family.

I hope this won't sound odd...but it occurred to me just yesterday that Judge Staker and I have shared key transition times in our lives. I graduated from law school and entered the profession, and was blessed to be selected as one of his first three law clerks. He had just been elevated from the state bench to the federal bench. I won't forget that when I worked for him, and was going through a period of self-doubt professionally, he encouraged me and even went so far as to predict that I would be a judge someday. It's very humbling to think of all of this. And now, as I'm about to leave the bench, it's transition time for me again, and also for Judge Staker due to his serious health concerns. I hope to get to visit with him soon -

If I haven't said this somewhere in this blog, I'm surprised, because it's been a catch-phrase for my life. God always has been the Master of transition in my life. I can give example after example. And even when I've reached an "impossible" goal - like getting hired to be a United States District Court Law Clerk - it seems like I'm immediately focused on the next goal. Not that I don't enjoy where I am! But trying to look forward. It's harder to do that, when a new goal is thrust upon you - as it was when I lost the election. But I know that God still is the Master of transition in my life and I am looking forwad to the next step.

9-18

It's Thursday, and what a Thursday it was! In Court till 6:00 and barely room to come up for air beginning 8:30. Whew! There will be some advantages to trying something different come the first of the year!

Yesterday, I met with a federal-state review team, here in Harrison County to interview all the players in the child welfare system. One of the team members was a consultant from Utah who took my card and hinted that I might be a good candidate to speak at a conference out there! That'd be fun. It's been years since I did anything like that and I wouldn't mind doing it from time to time.

I have an interview coming up for a job I'm truly interested in. Problem is - it's not local, or at least I don't think so. What I mean is - definitely, it's not based locally, but maybe it could be done by tele-commute. At any rate, I'm glad to have the interview. Also found out today that I did not get another job applied for, though it was one I didn't expect to get anyway, and not one I was interested in too much. About a week ago, I became aware of another job vacancy, local this time, that I think I might be quite interested in...exciting to think about, anyway.

I'm headed for Knoxville tomorrow to help my son and daughter-in-law work on their house. They're under a real time-crunch to get it liveable so the loan can be converted from construction to traditional mortgage. Looking forward to visiting with them and getting whatever they need done, done.

Done sounds good. So done for now.

9/11

Seven years ago today, I was sitting in my courtroom when I got the word that one of the Twin Towers in New York had been hit by a plane. I'm not sure how I got the word first - I may have had the internet up in background on my computer. I remember seeing a picture, and checking the news story and all it said was that one of the Towers had been hit and no further news was known. This had to be minutes later.

We have a TV here in my suite of offices which occasionally has been used for various purposes - to view video evidence, for purposes of my annual Bar Seminar, etc. We wheeled it in to my Case Coordinator's office and turned on the news - all the while, I was ducking in and out of Court. I actually saw the second tower get hit and I can remember one of the women on my staff saying, "You don't think that's a coincidence, do you?" and my bailiff and I just looked at each other and said, "No." At that point of course we knew something was really wrong.

The rest of the day is kind of a blur. The Court House was closed at noon but I was still here, finishing up some work and actually was still in a hearing past noon. Of course, I'd spoken to my wife. Our youngest was 4 and at the sitters, my wife was at her former job at our church just down the street, our daughter was in middle school and our third son was a freshman in college but was at home. Our oldest son was in school in Tennessee and our second son in Morgantown. I can remember wishing that all of us were together somewhere. Truly, none of us new what to expect next. Was our country being attacked?

There were stories of a plane over Elkins. Then of course we heard of the plane that hit the Pentagon. We were scheduled to go to Morgantown that evening for a picnic with our oldest son, a class activity for him at WVU. That event was cancelled but we went ahead and had dinner with him. Earlier in the day, my wife and I had been to one of many local church services, at the Presbyterian Church here in downtown Clarksburg.

I was interviewed by the local news media (WDTV) early that afternoon and what I recall is that I was worried about my adult sons and the possibility of a draft. Selfish maybe but it was on my mind. After we had dinner with my #2 son in Morgantown, he attended a service at his church there and coincidentially he was interviewed for his reaction, also by WDTV. The 11:00 news featured father and son back-to-back but the connection was not made. I wish I'd asked for a copy of that spot!

So much has happened since then. The aftermath has included the Iraq War and now we're facing yet another Presidential election with these issues of terrorism, etc., still at the fore. Our country certainly needs someone to lead us these next few years who can deal effectively with these issues and other pressing ones such as energy which are undeniably related in some ways. That's what I'm praying for today.

September Seventh

Busy month so far! Annette and I had a great anniversary getaway last weekend, after Ethan and I ran (slowly!) the Charleston 5k. It was my 12th in a row and it was fun. Then his momma and I, on Sun. after church, took off for an overnight in the mountains. We had a great time - relaxing, good to get away and just spend a little while focusing on each other and nuthin' else - including work and "thinking about the future."

Then this week I had a full docket but on Wednesday my staff worked a miracle and got me out of the Court House by 3 so I could make an appearance at the Supreme Court reception at the Governor's Mansion at 5. It was fun and interesting - got to meet both Gov. and Mrs. Manchin for the first time and see some other friends, and also shake hands with three of the Supreme Court Justices. Then back on the road and home in time to say goodnight to Ethan - a full day - one of those where I was tired but felt like I'd gotten a lot done, and a lot of good stuff done.

This weekend was our first of five for Youth Leader Core (YLC), a statewide denominational program I've directed before. This is the first time I've done it without one of my own kids being in it. Kids are selected by their pastors and youth leaders for their own leadership qualities, and we have five intensive weekends focusing on developing good leadership skills in God's Kingdom and the church. I have a great leadership team with four others, including two college students who went through YLC not all that long ago themselves, and 12 students. We were at my church this weekend and will be in Summersville in October, Nitro in January, Crab Orchard in February and Morgantown in April. Or at least that's the plan now -

Got some interesting word this weekend on yet another possible option for after January career-wise which I'll be pursuing. Don't know why - maybe this is just wishful thinking - but feels like some positive and maybe even surprising opportunities are just around the corner -

Almost September

Heard from an old friend tonight - a blast from the past for sure! Hadn't seen her in years but she told me she'd been catching up with me on this blog. Great to hear from her.

Well, my daughter and son have started their school years. So far so good!

Tomorrow night I'll "run the Italian Heritage Festival" which has been a tradition these last 12 years. All that means is, I'll go to downtown Clarksburg after dark and run Main Street, which will be lit up and busy with folks setting up for the Festival which is this weekend. Friday, the Court House will close at noon, I'll probably go "eat on the street" since the vendors will be set up, and then we'll head for Charleston. Ethan and I will be running the Regatta 5k there and try to get back to watch WVU's first game of the season on TV. Then Sunday after church I'm kidnapping my wife for our annual anniversary getaway :)

Right at the end of the campaign, I attended a dinner with a "silent auction" and I won an overnight at a great place not far from here. So that's our destination - but it's a secret from her so can't say any more about it right now -

It's been a pretty good week so far! Getting up earlier to get the boy to school, and getting to the office earlier, has been good!

Light at the end of the tunnel

Sure have enjoyed watching some Olympics this week. The 4x200 relay in men's swimming was incredible, with Lezak (32 years old) swimming the last leg and breaking a world record for splits, and just out-touching the Frenchman who previously had held the world record and who was way ahead of him until the last few strokes. Especially since the French publicly had promised to smash the Americans! Enough to inspire anyone -

I'm beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel. Yesterday was three months post-Election. I still don't know what I'll be doing, for sure, but the thought of doing my own thing is taking shape better. I finished the week-long Family Court mediation training and really enjoyed it - mediating is one option which would be good for me and might produce some income. It's also encouraging to find out that a number of jobs are open or are becoming open - I've put in an application or two and have had some nice comments in return.

Summer is winding down - just a couple more weeks until my daughter starts her junior year of college and my son enters middle school. Yikes! Not sure I'm ready for either -

8.8.08

The Olympics start today - I always look forward to watching them. Should be especially interesting this year since they're in Beijing. I hope things really are getting better there in the human rights arena...

Our friends, Pastor Andre and Mme. Justine Jean from Haiti, are our guests this weekend.

I finished the 40 hour Family Mediation Training seminar today and it was an enjoyable week. Definitely glad I completed it - working as a mediator is definitely a possibility for the future, not as an entire career certainly but as a part.

More and more things seem to be coming open so we will see. I'm sure I've used that phrase "we will see" more than once in this blog - sorry about that but it fits --

I realized this week that I have just a bit over four more months on the bench. Less than a week from now will be three months past the election - amazing -

Everyone out there, enjoy your 8.8.08 --

King Tut's and Church

Forgot - we celebrated the boys' birthday at a great hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Knoxville called "King Tut's." The owner, Mo, was quite the funny guy! I'll write more about him later. For now, let's just say King Tut's is a very worthy successor to Senor Taco! After dinner, we went to a 10:50 showing of "The Dark Knight." All of us had seen it at least once except Ethan, and he was fine with it. Didn't get to bed till about 2:00 Sun. a.m. and barely got up in time for church - a great service at my son's church, Redeemer. Last Sunday, there was a nationally-covered church shooting at the Universalist Unitarian Church in Knoxville and it turns out a fellow killed there was the father of a member of my son's church - an eerie feeling to think that something like that happened just a few miles from where Christopher and Alice were worshipping at the same time - I've been praying for the U.U. congregation this week and now have a name to add to that -

Mediation

For a long time, I've been in favor of we Family Court Judges being required to complete mediation training. We have to send so many litigants to mediation, how could it not make us more effective in our jobs? Anyway, with my loss in the election, I decided to go ahead and attend myself. Depending on how things play out between here and Jan. 1, it may be beneficial in more ways than one for me to have qualification as a Family Court mediator!

Today was the first day of a five-day training program in Morgantown and it was enjoyable. I'm looking forward to the rest! I was a bit tired today - we didn't get home from Knoxville until after midnight, We left my son's apartment yesterday at 3:45 and by 5:45 we hadn't gone 20 miles - all the result of a major tractor-trailer accident/spill before noon yesterday which tied up traffic in a rather major way - obviously - hope no one was hurt -

Had a great time in Knoxville and looking forward to the next time with the whole crew! Since I'm in Morgantown each day this week, all day and in addition I have evening meetings tomorrow and Thursday, I'm taking #2 son Cameron and his wife to dinner tomorrow during my break.

We've gotten some major lawn work done this past week which is great. Our two huge spruce trees got a much-needed pruning, the grass is mowed and today I got my new "Garden Groom" trimmer in the mail. We've got some bushes - one especially - in desperate need of some major trimming. I may give that a shot this weekend, although our Haitian pastor Andre Jean and his wife Justine will be here for their once-a-year visit so it'll be very busy - we'll see -

Looking at about a dozen jobs as of now - not surpisingly, my interest level varies rather widely from one to another - but it is encouraging that so many things seem to be open right now -

Can't wait for The Amazing Race and Survivor to come back on the air! Should be next month. In the meantime - I'll have to content myself with the Olympics. I am looking forward to them - they start this Friday, 8/8/08. Go USA!

Knoxville

In Knoxville and it's Saturday morning. The whole crew is here! Yesterday some of us got here about 4:00 p.m. and went over to my son and daughter-in-law's new house (still under construction) and spent a couple of hours putting in insulation. It was hot, dusty and full of those wonderful fiberglass fibers - but fun. This a.m., we were supposed to be up at 6:00 but that didn't work - I woke up at 7:00 and the "first crew" was leaving and left me in charge of getting round #2 up and out. A challenge to say the least, since my #2 son and daughter-in-law didn't make it in till 3 this a.m. I think I'll let them sleep and rouse the rest who are left (actually that's what I'm in the process of now) and get going.

Later on today we're celebrating Christopher's #28 and Ethan's #11 (this past Wed., July 30) by visiting a local swimming hole and finding someplace nice to eat. There's a restaurant right across from Christopher and Alice's current apartment, Senor Taco, where we ate last year on July 30. They have a tradition - which we didn't know - of stuffing a paper plate full of whipped cream right in the kisser of anyone who's celebrating a birthday. So that was fun! When we were here at Easter time, which coincided with #3 son Duncan's 25th birthday, we also happened to go there - he hadn't been with us for the boys' birthday in July 2007 so he didn't know but the rest of us did. Pretty hilarious - but I understand we're not going to Senor Taco tonight. Hmmm...wonder what fun birthday tradition there might be at the restaurant we do pick? : }

We're leaving tomorrow for home and all next week I'll be in a seminar to get on the list of Family Court mediators. There's actually been lots of action on the job front - I have about 10 applications out, some of them far and wide - and it's encouraging that several things have opened up. Still focusing on opening my own office because to date it's the only guarantee I have - but we will see. As someone said to me - it's a bit frustrating to know that God already knows, but He hasn't told me yet. True - but not only do I trust Him with the details of the future, I trust Him with the timing of its being revealed to me.

Things are better and I'm grateful.

Back from Camp

Just back home from the finest place on Earth, the West Virginia Baptist Camp at Cowen. With 209 5th and 6th graders including my youngest! This is my 3rd year at this Camp again, after a long hiatus. I counseled it every year from 1974-1995 and directed it in 1989. Last month, I was there for the Sr. High camp, which I've been blessed to counsel each year since 1981. My goal is to serve at the camp at least until 2015, when my youngest is scheduled to graduate high school. Lord willing!

Nothing else new. A lot of thinking, to be sure!

More travel is ahead. On Friday, we're leaving for Knoxville and my son's home there, to celebrate his (my oldest) and my youngest's birthday (July 30) with the whole family. Then, back on Sunday, and then to Morgantown for a week of mediation training.

Now to rest!

The Ides of July

Well, here we are at July 15th. I attended a two-day seminar yesterday and today and saw many, many old friends - several of whom did not know about the election outcome. So explaining the lay of the land all over again was fun - ah well.

I worked till 9:00 p.m. last Friday, then at least four hours each on Saturday and Sunday. My hearing/trial schedule the next two days is fairly heavy but Friday should be clear. My goal is to get three decisions that have been burning a whole in me (overdue since before the election) out by the end of this week, even if it means working all day this Saturday. All three cases have attorneys on both sides and the lawyers have been very understanding - I've been keeping in touch and letting them know of my progress. I know people want closure but these three particular cases each had enough complexity that a quick decision likely wouldn't have been a very good one.

It's now just over two months past the election, which means we have 5-1/2 months left on the bench. It's been quite a two months! People still ask me, of course, "what are you going to do?," to which I generally answer, "I don't know and haven't taken much time to think about it." In reality, I think about it all the time, so maybe it's more accurate to say I haven't felt like I've had the time or information to formulate anything definite. As I have been, I still am focusing on opening my own office, because I have control over that. My big concern there is cash-flow and benefits, since I'm the principal breadwinner and the provider of health insurance, etc., at least at this point.

What I know is - a lot has come to my attention in the past two months, and a lot more will come to my attention in the next five-plus. So we will see - this evening, feeling a bit impatient just to know(!) but I must focus my energy on the folks coming to see me tomorrow and Thursday and getting the "big three" decisions out this week. The short-term goal must trump the long-term for now.

Rumors and Reality

So far, I've heard these rumors about my future:

1. I am going to work in the Federal Prosecutor's Office.
2. My family and I are moving back to Elkins.
3. I have a "big administrative" job waiting for me at the Supreme Court in Charleston.

Apparently, someone thinks they know something I don't know - none of these are right as far as I know. When I know - you'll be the first to hear!

Readers

It never ceases to amaze me when I learn about a new reader, or a new group of readers. Apparently, my blog has gotten some publicity, and not a surprise at all to me, not all the comments have been positive.

Some have, though, and I'm grateful for the understanding and the nice thoughts. For those who think I haven't been understanding, I'm sorry. 'Nuff said about that.

We're moving on and as I know I've said - I'll miss the bench. But we're continuing to move toward the point of being ready for the next adventure. Until then - much work left to do as Harrison County's only Family Court Judge through the end of the year, part of which will be to make as easy as possible the transition of the Court to my successors.

Seven, seven, o-eight

My wife, youngest son and I saw "Wall-E" yesterday. Nothin' like a good Pixar movie to lift the spirits! I am not a movie person normally but this one was enjoyable and there are a couple others out, or about to be out, that I'm interested in - super-hero stuff ("The Dark Knight," "Hancock") and spy stuff (James Bond).

Independence Day After Eve

It's July 5 so hope everyone had a good 4th. It was rainy, rainy here. Today's sunny, not too hot but pretty humid.

Finally, on Thursday, I had my much needed "Friday" - in other words, a day without hearings or trials. Although I still have much paperwork to do, and have brought a good bit of it home with me this weekend which I have yet to start on here, I did get quite a bit done on July 3 at the office. And in case you're wondering if I deserved a day like that - I was in Court from 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. Wednesday! Tuesday was a more normal day - solid hearings from about 8:30 - 5:00 with a lunch break - but Monday was a mega-domestic violence day, in Court until at least 7:30. Some things about this job I won't miss - like this Wednesday - but still, most things I will miss. Ah well.

Still thinking a lot about the next step, and hearing of new possibilities all the time. You'll be the first to know when I know!

My daughter's three friends from college are visiting for a week starting this weekend, so we've been on a cleaning/repair frenzy. My youngest and I had the pleasure of re-caulking our shower yesterday. The part that took the longest by far was removing the old, yucky, mildewy caulk. A bonding experience in more ways than one (pun intended).

Busy week at work next week and Friday should be fairly free for paperwork except for my dental appointment - at least it's very early in the day, so won't interrupt things too much. My teeth do need cleaned, I drink a lot of coffee (like right now).

I'm attending an abuse-and-neglect seminar at the WVU Law School - my alma mater - July 14 and 15, and a week-long family-law mediation seminar Aug 4-8 at the same location. Getting ready for the future as best I can. Also will be meeting with my successors to get started on scheduling for them - they don't yet have the authority to schedule, so if I don't do it for them they'll start the new year with nothing set for hearing or trial. That would be a big problem in more ways than one - my secretary already has a stack of things that need to be scheduled. Except for domestic violence and a few other things, we're not scheudling anything else for me -we're booked thru mid-November and the rest of the time will be needed to finish things. I'm determined to make the transition smooth and positive and definitely not to leave the Family Court in a shambles.

By the way - my courtroom is not going to be used for the Family Court anymore so I don't have to give up my courtroom to anyone! I've got a copy of the plans for the new space, in the Court House Annex, and I don't like them at all. It's a modern space, not at all like the original Court House space I'm in, and I think will have much less of a "court" feel. Hey! Maybe I'm looking for reasons to feel good about leaving this job - but if that helps me over the hump, so be it. The fact is, there are advantages, and I am looking forward to doing something new, interesting and hopefully helpful to people. Now doesn't that make me sound noble? But I mean it. We'll see what God does. A friend of mine pointed out that it's somewhat frustrating to know that God already knows what's going to happen, but He won't tell us when we want to know! True - but also true that He is the Master of all timing, including when it's time for us to know the next step. Good to know that He does know already and that He can be trusted!

Oh - we have two new family members, cats. Twins. My secretary's neighbor had them and we were just going to get one but as I should have predicted, my wife and daughter and youngest son couldn't bear the thought of separating them. So, I made this deal - we could get both, but I had final say over the names. RIGHT! It's not that I don't like the names, they're fine. Hugo and James. Something to do with "Lost" which members of my family (not me) are addicted to. I think it's probably a great show but I limit my addictions to Survivor and Amazing Race.

Fridays

Well...these are supposed to be the days that I do research and writing and other paperwork, and generally get caught up. Though I did pretty well keeping up during the campaign, there are three kinda big things that are still awaiting final rulings. I've been working on them steadily but since I have to listen to the recordings of all proceedings in each case, it's slow work. To boot, this truly is the first Friday I've had in the office since the election - though some of that admittedly is because of time off I've taken. At any rate! I've gotten some done today but it's frustrating - had a meeting I had to go to downstairs from 11-12:30, a wedding here in a minute, and another meeting out at United Summit Center at 2:00. All these things are worthwhile and important - no problem there - but with this many commitments on what should be an uninterrupted day, it makes it hard to focus on any one task for too long. I did get some done this a.m. before my first meeting and right now, I'm jotting this down during the ten minutes I've set aside to wolf down the lunch I brought. My own new "Haitian Chicken" recipe - not too bad!

An interesting development for me - many of you have told me you've been reading my blog. That's a surprise and not one at the same time. I know that putting stuff on the internet makes it very, very public and that it's out there for "all to see." I also expected that my opponent in the election and/or her people would be reading but the first time that was confirmed for sure - by a rather in-depth discussion with one of her supporters - it sure was a creepy feeling. But I am the one who chose to blog and I'm not sorry about it. I've kinda put it all there for anyone to see me, warts and all, and if they don't like it I'm sorry but there's not a whole lot I can do.

Some of you have told me that you tried to get in but you were blocked out - sorry about that. I closed access for a short period of time to review what I'd written, to correct some misspellings, etc., and inadvertently left it closed for longer than I'd intended. So we're back "online" now.

My wife and youngest are out of town, at a Christian music festival in Pa., and will be back Sun. That leaves me and my #3 son and my daughter at home - we're all going to a wedding in Huntington tomorrow. I'm not that fond of weddings normally but these are two old Camp kids so it should be fun. Speaking of weddings - my #1 son's third anniversary was this past Tues. and my #2 son's third anniversary is next Tuesday. :) :)

Still lots of thoughts percolating about the future...got to get to the wedding, then back to work for a bit before I take off for Summit Center. Bye for now.

My Last Family Court Conference?

It's been a while since I blogged - a busy time. Spent last week at Camp Cowen with 200 Sr. High aged kids and a bunch of other counselors. My 29th year in a row counseling that camp! God's been good to allow me to go every year and I'm hoping to continue at least till 2015 - that's when my youngest boy will graduate from high school. Maybe longer!

I'm in Charleston right now and am attending our annual Spring Family Court Conference (even though it's summer). This is one of the things I'll miss - frankly, it's fun being with my colleagues. Over the years I've gotten quite close with some of them. Plus, since there are only 35 of us and we have uniquely stressful jobs, we have an affinity - even those of us who might not have much in common otherwise.

I'll be back at Camp a week in July, with my youngest, but before then I'll be attending a two-day abuse-and-neglect conference in Morgantown. I'm also attending the mediation training in Morgantown in August. Preparing for the future...still focusing on doing my own thing job-wise as of the first of the year but in a very controlled way.

The thought of starting a non-profit with focus on youth law issues has crossed my mind. One of our current Family Court Judges started the only such program in West Virginia a few years ago and it's still going strong, in the far southern part of the State. There would be advantages to that format over a private practice, for sure, but also it would be more limiting - will have to think on that one.

It's good to be here in Charleston among friendly folks - and those with whom I can toss around ideas. Also got to have dinner last evening, and to spend several hours, with some of my law school friends who also had some helpful thoughts and suggestions. At least, I feel like I have steady relationships with people who not only care about me but who also are good sources of information.

Tomorrow is six weeks from the election and it feels like a lot longer. I still have six months plus on the bench but I know it will go by quickly. Time is a funny thing -

Home and it's HOT

Home again from Florida - and the heat wave that's hitting the East Coast is here. Oh, did I mention our air conditioning is out? Ah well -

Left Florida yesterday morning and drove (with several stops and not-very-efficient ones to boot) to Beckley - that took until 2 am this morning! But we had a good night's sleep in a nice place and left about 12:30 for Camp Cowen, where we had an enjoyable afternoon visiting friends and most importantly, celebrating the dedication of the wonderful new dining hall there designed by none other than my oldest son, Christopher. Cowen's my favorite place in the world, I was in my element.

Of course, many friends from around the State knew about the election and told me how sorry they are, etc. Me too of course - but I'm more and more getting to the point of thinking more precisely about the future. No great revelations yet -
you'll be the first to know!

I Got Pecked in the Eye by a Bird

The title says it all!

We're in Florida - it's been a great trip, therapy for me for sure. We've enjoyed a great riverfront house with a canoe, manatee right outside our door (sometimes), visiting family, swimming, great weather, and more. We have to leave tomorrow morning but we're stopping at the Orange Shop in Citra on the way out of Florida - that's a special memory for my three oldest boys so now my youngest two will get to join in on the fun of that -- it's just a little shop by the side of the road with amazing fresh-squeezed orange juice and all the Florida trinkets you could think of.

Talked to my secretary and case coordinator today and learned that the rains in our part of West Virginia have been torrential - so doubly glad not to have been home this week!

Back to the title - we were visiting my sister-in-law in Orlando last night and she, to say the least, is a bird person. One of her "teenage" black chickens (not still a chick but not fully grown) was sitting on my shoulder and decided to reach around and peck me in the left eye. That was more than 24 hours ago and yes, it's still somewhat painful but basically OK. The eye is an amazing thing - it heals rather quickly. I've been able to drive, haven't had to take my contact out, etc., so despite some discomfort it seems to be all right.

Heading for West Virginia, but not home, tomorrow. We'll stay in southern W.Va. Friday night and then on Saturday, the dedication of our new Dining Hall at our beloved Camp Cowen is the big event - featuring the principal architect who once again is my son. Yes I'm a proud papa - and I invite you to check it out by going to www.wvbc.org, click on Camp Cowen, click on Dining Hall and you'll see why. I'm counseling at Sr. High Camp starting June 15 (I've done this camp every year since 1981) and can't wait to be part of a camp using the new Alice Randall -

Will sign off for now. A busy week awaits when I get home - hearings, still trying to catch up on paperwork, and thinking, praying, considering more about the future. I've had lots of thoughts this week but won't share them here just yet...to be continued...

Leaving for Florida Tomorrow

Well, now it has been two weeks, and two days. The world is beginning to seem a little brighter - thankfully. Hope this lasts, especially when the days begin winding down toward the end of the term later this year!

We're leaving for Florida tomorrow, in fact about 3:00 p.m. We've rented a neat little riverfront house in Weeki Wachee, Florida, which is fairly close to several relatives. We'll be seeing my father-in-law, my sister-in-law, and a favorite aunt and uncle to my kids. My whole crew will be there - all five of my kids, my two daughters-in-law, and of course my wife and me. We'll miss our dog and my oldest son's two dogs who often travel with us. The dogs loved the beach last summer.

Last Friday, we had our "Quarterly North Central Regional Judicial Summit" which is dinner with a few of us judges from this part of the State. This time we were in Philippi, hosted by Judge Longo, and the whole crowd was present - Judges Culpepper, Born, Fantasia, Longo, and Crislip (me), with several spouses also in attendance. After dinner, we walked up the street to Judge Longo's office and she showed it off. I'd been there several times but none of the others had. We also walked past a really neat old house which had been converted into a bed & breakfast and got a tour from the owners - it was some house. For anyone who knows my wife, that was the highlight of her evening.

Feelings of hopefulness probably come from several sources. Prayer and God's responsive intervention. The support of family and friends. The diversion of work and other activities. Planning for our trip. Looking forward to summer. And, some specific strategies, at least thought strategies. I decided over the weekend, and told my wife, that I had to focus on something I had control over, or at least that I perceive I have control over. Since my focus has been, "What next?," the only job path I have reasonable control over at this time is making a plan to do my own thing, hang out a shingle, which I have said repeatedly I do not want to do. But - it's occurred to me that I might be able to do it in a very controlled way and I even have an idea for something almost unique that might be successful both in terms of income and real help to the public and the court system. I need to run it by a few people to see what they think -

I'm aware of many other potential options, of course. But all of those would require me to be hired by an employer as opposed to "hiring myself." I'm not opposed to a job where I'd be hired and where I'd get a paycheck, a paycheck, a paycheck, with benefits, etc. We'll see what God lays before me, though.

We're not out of the woods yet. I'm getting more and more used to the idea. My staff and I are trying to get back to normal and actually, this week, at least to me, it's beginning to feel normal again being here, doing the work, interacting with my staff, the lawyers, the litigants. I'm going to try hard and focus on doing my job well, serving the public well, making sure my staff is happy, and not leaving this place in a shambles for my two successors. That's the least I can do for the people of Harrison County. Many of whom, by the way, voted for me :)

A Week Later

OK, now it's been a week and two days. It's been somewhat of a bumpy ride. For some reason, sleep has been an issue starting with Monday night of this week - got only 1-1/2 hours that night. Night before last was somewhat better - about a total of 3 hours. Last night I slept about 4 hours, then was awake for an hour or so, then slept pretty well the rest of the night until just before 6:30 a.m.

There have been so many thoughts go through my brain. Lots of people - including people in positions of authority and who are politically savvy - have told me they are shocked that my opponent won. As I may have said, while not shocked, I was surprised -- and I think it's fair to say part of my grief reaction has been what properly could be called "shock." I'm a little numb right now.

There've been light moments for sure. We're trying to "make lemonade" with these lemons that life has handed us. All of us -- my family and I, my staff and I, other friends and I -- have even been able to joke about it a bit. I think it's all pretty healthy -

I called my opponent's office on Monday morning and left a message of congratulations. She called me back about 1/2 hour later to acknowledge my call, and I repeated my congratulations and offered any assistance I could in the transition at the end of this year. She said thank you. The conversation was courteous and short. That was a tough call for me but I know it was the right thing to do.

I love the Family Court and while I am not happy with the thought of leaving my job at the end of this year, I certainly want to do all I can to make the transition as easy a process as possible. I want the Family Court not only to continue as it has but to continue growing in service to the people of this area.

Back to my insomnia - although it started Monday night, I never felt tired until about 7:30 last evening and then I just about dropped. Today, I am tired and am looking forward to going home and resting this evening. And balancing my checkbook, catching up on my tithe, and whatever else I can find as far as those routine responsibilities go.

I've had a busy week of hearings. Tomorrow I have to speak at a career day and read at my son's school. It'll be my last time reading to his class - I've done that almost every month since he's been in grade school. So another part of my life coming to a close - sad, but at the same time neat to see him and his friends growing up -

It's a transition time for all of us.

Results

Well...it's now Thursday, May 15, and I lost the election. 48 hours ago at this time, before the polls closed, I still expected to win. Now, I always, always said AND MEANT that I considered my opponent to be tough and I acknowledged that she could win and I would not be shocked if she did, so I'm not shocked. However, I maintained cautious optimism and really thought I would win in a close election. So let's just say unpleasantly surprised...

This is a grieving process to be sure. It seems so odd. I still have a job till the end of the year, or for about 7 more months. But then...I don't know.

I have absolutely loved this job. It doesn't mean that it hasn't had its days! But I was so thrilled to be appointed in 1995, and then when the position changed to Family Court Judge and elected, I was so pleased no one ran against me the first time.

In late November - two days after my birthday - when it first seemed like I was going to have competition - that was a difficult time. I had trouble sleeping, but got it under control, and then there was Christmas and its busyness, and then there was the wait till Jan. 14, the first day candidates officially could register. Frankly, I was hoping and praying that no one would register against me, but when that prayer was answered "no," we went into high gear.

I found out today what my opponent is said to have spent over on the campaign. I spent about $20,000.00 and frankly, would not have spent more than that. Her expenditures were significantly higher. My loss is not all about the money - another candidate for another position well outspent his incumbent opponent and the incumbent won that race handily. But no doubt, it had an impact.

Everyone tells me that the Family Court position is a tough one to be re-elected to because of the unhappiness that at least 50% of the people have with the process when they leave the Court. Of course, most of the time that means disagreement with my rulings, which often are dictated by the law without my opportunity to exercise much discretion. I don't mean to whine or sound like I'm "justifying" anything - but just to state the fact. The flip side of that is, when people are happy with me, it's often my application of the law in the same way, without much discretion. But, people tend to act on things they are unhappy about, not things they're pleased with.

I have so much I could say, so much I have thought and am thinking. But, many of these things are better left unsaid and will remain that way.

I hope this doesn't sound bitter. I'm not bitter. What I am, again, is grieving. And I need to grieve. I'm losing something that's been very precious to me - a job I love, and one where I've had an opportunity to help families. A staff that has been like family to me. And working in the Harrison County Court House, where I dreamed of working as a boy. I'm going to cherish the next seven months and yes, I am looking forward to seeing what door God will open for me for the next chaper of my life.

I'm worried about providing for my family, finding a job I like, benefits, the works. Will we have to move? How will that affect my youngest son, who will start middle school this fall? What about my wife's counseling practice? In my life, I've never been fond of change, but it's something that comes whether we like it or not. And of course, in hindsight, I can see many times when I've perceived occurrences in my life as "bad" which turned out to be very good. God works that way and I'm thankful!

Not all the news is bleak - although I can't share them here, there have been good things come out of the election. When I read this later - if it's much later - I probably won't remember what I'm talking about since I feel I can't be specific here! But I remain, in my basic nature, an optimist, and there have been a couple silver linings already. And I'll be looking for more.

I cried today. I knew I would sooner or later. Earlier in this blog, I shared that I'd cried while talking to my parents at their gravesite a month or so ago. I sure am missing them again today, but mostly I cried over the impending loss of my other family - my staff.

I am grateful that I have a supportive wife and kids and that we're all healthy and happy and that while my job is a big, big part of my life and my family's life, we'll move beyond this and don't have those even bigger life issues (health, etc.) to deal with right now. I certainly am prayerful that God keeps us all healthy and together for a long, long time to come.

Thank you for reading and being interested. This blog was created by me to record my feelings during the election process, and I don't know how much longer I'll maintain it. But I won't close it out just yet - maybe I'll try to "name names" and list all the people who have been so supportive and helpful. There've been so many - and these past couple of days, so many calls and e-mails of support and prayers.

This is overwhelming on so many levels.

It's Election Day!

9:41 in the a.m. and I didn't expect to be blogging this early - especially since I have yet to vote!

Although I woke up a couple times during the night I went right back to sleep and was still snoozing deeply when my little bro called me about 7:25 this morning. Since then I've been moving slowly, talking to my wife, taking a shower and now finally grabbing a quick breakfast as I type this and get ready to go to the polls. We vote at an elementary school and could walk if we wanted to -- maybe we will. My wife, #3 son and I will go together here in a few minutes. Here we go!

My only other sibling, my sis, called me a few minutes ago to tell me she's praying for me, to wish me good luck, and to say she loves me. So I've heard from both of them now - I'm sure I'll get some other calls today, including from my lifelong best friend who's been a great encouragement throughout this process. He and his family live in North Carolina and he called me this past weekend to encourage me during the final thrust -

It's sunny out today and that's great since my wife is planning a cookout. Orange has been our main campaign color - signs, t-shirts, billboards, etc. - and so she is trying to do everything in orange with blue as a back-up (since blue was our second color). We've always had elaborate parties for birthdays and other occasions and she is the queen of decorating, themes, etc. I'm looking forward to everyone's being here - she's invited a lot of folks, most if not all of whom have worked hard on the campaign.

I'm calm. There's nothing more to be done now, and of course the control is in the hands of the voters. But as I've said before and sincerely believe, the ultimate control is with God and I'm trusting Him for His outcome - whatever that may be.

Don't know exactly what the day will bring -- except lots of lawn and other work to get ready for the party tonight. I'm not expecting to be pampered today! I have to work like everyone else and really, I wouldn't have it any other way.

God bless you all today and if you are a registered Democrat or Independent/No Party in Harrison or Doddridge County, West Virginia, and you haven't early-voted, please go out and vote to re-elect me, Judge Drew Crislip, for Family Court Judge, Division I! Thanks!

Last Thursday

I forgot ... in my post last Wednesday, I promised to explain why I didn't have a meeting Thursday night. How could that be, in this world of endless campaign appearances?!?

Last Thursday, May 8, was my dear wife's birthday and she and I had a date that evening! We went to dinner at Olive Garden in Morgantown - it was important that I not be anywhere local, where people would approach me to talk election. I wondered if Morgantown would be far enough away, but it was. I didn't see one person I knew! We had a great time, a nice getaway for us. We'd won a $50 gift certificate to Olive Garden at our annual Valentine's Day at the home of our good friends, the Rohrboughs. That's become a nice tradition these past few years. Since we won this year - finally - we get to do the questions for next year's Newlywed Game which always is a feature of this party. Over dinner, we started coming up with a few already!

So even though this past week has been a lot of work - including major hearing days Monday and Wednesday - it's nice that Thursday was my wife's birthday so we could get away together alone that evening, and that Sunday was Mother's Day. I'm not superstitious but if good things come in threes as some say - the next celebration will be the election!

What I'm looking for -- truly -- is God's will. He will put me where He wants me. It's my job to be open, willing and available, whether that's in continuing as Family Court Judge or in another role. We'll know at least part of the answer to the puzzle soon...hallelujah! At least some certainty in what has been a very uncertain few months!

One last thought - this election process has reminded me of Christmas. There's no end to good ideas to try; things are hectic; there are a million things to do; and no matter what, the event will arrive and be over before we know it. Priorities shift and get re-shifted when there's a definite deadline. Just like getting ready for Christmas - which always comes whether we're "ready" or not - this election cycle essentially is over but for sure and finally will be over after tomorrow's vote. And you will know the outcome at the same time I do! I'm just glad I know the One Who not only already knows the outcome - He's ordained it. It's so good to know He loves me and has a plan - and that He'll share it with me when the time is right.

OK, really am going to close for the evening this time. G'night!

Election Eve Exhaustion Exhiliaration...

...If the title doesn't make sense, don't expect much better from this blog entry. As I start this, it is 8:45 p.m. and I'm feeling very tired - in an all-over-my-body way.

Yesterday was Mother's Day and more or less, I took it off. After church, we did go to the community baked steak dinner at Lost Creek, because my wife wanted baked steak! Our #2 son (who is featured in one of my commercials and who wrote and performed my jingle!) and his wife came down from Morgantown on Saturday and spent the night, so they were with us at dinner. #3 son was working a weekend shift so there were the five of us - me, my wife, son and wife, and our youngest son. The day was drizzly, dreary and cold but we for the most part were cozy at home - a nice day.

I did stop off on the way home to repair one of my banner signs which had come off its pole on one side, and that was a wet job - but it didn't take long. And at home, I did sign somewhere in the neighborhood of 425 cards - the newer "postcard brochures" which were mailed to some potential voters but for the most part were handed out at dinners or otherwise in person, and more recently, door-to-door. On many of them, I wrote a greeting, asking for a vote and thanking the voter, and signing my name.

This past week, I did quite a bit of door-to-door. 100 doors in Lumberport on Tuesday, 65 doors outside Bridgeport Thursday, 125 doors in Shinnston Friday, 200 doors in Bridgeport today. Before I got to Bridgeport today, I was in Doddridge County and Salem making some contacts, making sure signs were up, etc.

Oh - on the way home today, I was looking for a couple of my signs. A lady had approached my wife over two months ago and said she'd like to have a sign, and that she had a good place for it where many folks would see it. I delivered in that very evening - in fact, her daughter who lives near her took one too. At least one of the signs was to be posted where traffic could see it very easily from Rt. 50 and I never could spot it - so today, I went back into the little neighborhood where the two women live to see if I could spot them. I did! Standing back to back on one of their porches! It looks to me that the never had been posted, although they certainly weren't hidden. They were on the porch in plain sight, but not in any place where they'd be seen by too many people. I went ahead and took them off the porch and posted them in prominent places - I know the election is tomorrow but in keeping with all the work I've done today and the thought that they're no good after tomorrow -- why not?

I have one banner that I meant to try and get posted today but that just didn't happen. Ah well. I suppose I could drive myself crazy figuring out a place to post it tonight - but I think it's enough. I'm done.

I did do 30 more houses in Nutter Fort after I got home this evening, about 6:40, and after I'd shared a quick dinner with the family. It's been a wet day but not torrential rains. Still, my feet even now feel wet. Excuse me while I take off my shoes and socks --

The newspaper was interesting on Sunday. My opponent and I both had ads - hers was bigger than mine but I like where mine appeared in the paper better. The other two candidates also had ads - one was quite large and in color, the other was simpler and the same size as mine. I don't know what to think about that other race, for the 2nd Family Court Judge position - it'll be very interesting to see how it turns out -

As for my race - many folks have asked me quite a few questions about my opponent, her strategies, her commercials, etc., and frankly some of those same questions have occurred to me. Not sure they'll ever get answered or that I'll even seek the answers. In other words, I think when this election is over, it needs to be over. No post-mortem needed!

Having said that - no doubt there will be perspective on lots of aspects of the election that can't come for a while. I'm sure I'll have opinions on what I did right, what I over-focused on, what I wasted money on, what I didn't spend enough on, etc. All in all, though, it has been an amazing ride. So, so many people have come around me and been so great, contributed so much. My talented family has given and given. The two women who work for me have been incredible, too.

The plan for tomorrow is to get up fairly early - not the crack of dawn, mind you - and vote. Then, we get ready for the cookout my wife has planned as a thank you to our friends who've helped with the campaign. My lawn is a jungle!! It has rained most of the last week and it needed mowed before that - so lawn work will be a feature of tomorrow (it's supposed to be dry). #3 son will have primary responsibility there because I'm sure I'll be a bit low-key tomorrow physically - I'll be sore from all of today's walking (much of it very hilly) and just overall in need of rest. I'm looking forward to tomorrow night's get-together, though.

I haven't decided yet if I'll be at the Court House tomorrow night. Candidates often are there, watching the precincts and of course waiting for the final outcome. Since Doddridge County's vote counts too, I'm not sure when we'll get the combined total, final vote tally. I'm hopeful it's tomorrow evening at a decent hour and not the wee hours or even sometime later -- like I said, this needs to be done!

I'm not hearing any cases the rest of this week. In fact, on Friday, we're headed for Indiana to pick up our daughter who's finished her year at college. She voted absentee for her old Dad, by the way :)

I sincerely hope the next blog entry will report to you my victory in tomorrow's election. However, one way or the other, tomorrow is a victory. The election will be over and I will be satisfied that I worked HARD and did the best I could. I always told my kids, when they were involved in sports or other activities, that what was most important was: 1. Do your best; 2. Have fun. I can honestly say I've done my very best. And yes, there have been many fun things about this process. Fun enough to do again?!? Catch me in eight years for the answer :)

To all my friends, have a restful night, and be sure and get out and vote FOR ME tomorrow!! I will post again as soon as I can - good evening for now --

Less than a week now!

Yes, you can assume from the length of time since my last post that I've been WORKING. Have really been hitting it hard and trying some new things here at the end of the process. Early voting actually started two weeks ago today and ends this Saturday - the reports I've heard is that fewer folks than expected have early-voted but I'm sure at least a few hundred have. That's enough to make the difference!

My new commercials are in full swing. I woke up to one of them this morning!

Meetings every night this week - except Thursday - more on that later!

A week and two days

It's Sun. morning and I'm getting ready for Sunday School and church and just have a minute, but wanted to say my son and I had a good trip to Gettysburg, Hershey, Lancaster and Philadelphia. It wasn't without its tension - we were both tired and he's very sensitive about being independent - but for the most part it was very good. My wife worried that I'd have a problem "getting away" from the campaign but truly, I didn't. It's not that I didn't think about it, and certainly I met some new folks (other parents) on the trip who wanted to talk about the election some which I was glad to do, but for the most part it was what it was supposed to be - an educational and fun field trip for the students. A good break.

Got home about midnight Friday but went ahead yesterday and got up and ran the 5k at Shinnston with my campaign shirt on. It was fun, although I didn't do particularly well. To be expected since my training schedule is...next to nothing! The campaign has taken its toll on my time, for sure. There weren't too many runners but I made some new friends which was good. Then, I went to a bean dinner and saw some folks I know and made some new friends, and got take-out for my neighbors across the street. We also bought some flowers (my wife was with me) at a sale put on by the Spelter VFD Auxiliary and had some great chicken/biscuit and pie out at Pine Bluff. Later on, I went to a DARE program in Norwood Park where lots of folks were gathered and last night, to the Bridgeport Little League elimination dinner at the Bridgeport Country Club. Saw lots of friends there which was nice. Today - a very busy day - a whirlwind of two spaghetti and two baked steak dinners, some other campaign stops and a meeting tonight. And then a very busy week ahead, with only two days of hearings but tons of meetings and other election-related work.

Once again, points of discouragement and encouragement, all together. I'll truly be glad when this is over a week from Tuesday. I couldn't keep up this pace much longer!

I did start feeling a little sniffly last Tuesday and it was a problem on Wed and part of Thurs on the trip before I got some medicine. That seemed to take care of it and Thurs eve and Friday I felt fine - then yesterday and again today it's back but not as severely. The weather's been damp which doesn't help. What's amazing is, this is the first hint of sickness I've had during this whole campaign process, for which I'm very grateful. Maybe God's way of getting me to slow down a bit??

My choice now is either to do that and be a bit more relaxed - not arrogant, just relaxed - or to be hypervigilant and anxiety-ridden. I've got to choose the former for my sanity - plus I have two full days of hearings this week. I don't mean to be cavalier when I say what will be, will be. I still remain cautiously optimistic but very realistic. God knows the outcome and He will put me where He wants me to be - I can relax in that.

Drizzle

That's the best way to describe today's weather - and it's chilly, too. Not welcome after a really nice week last week weather-wise! Ah well, this is Spring. For the most part, it's been good.

This weather kinda makes my head feel full, though. So far, during this campaign, I've avoided being ill. I don't feel ill now but just kinda on the edge. Still, we press on - a busy day of domestic violence hearings today, an appearance tonight and the balance of the evening running errands and then finishing with doing a few at home, all for the election. And now a few minutes to add to this -

A particular sign stealing is bothering me. There's a spot in Stealey where I had a sign for about three weeks, with permission of the landowner. All of a sudden, one day last week, a big sign for my opponent appeared on the spot and mine is gone. I called the landlord who apologized, told me that my opponent did have permission but that my sign was not to have been removed. I was invited to put another sign there, which I did promptly, and it promptly was removed as well. The landlord once again apologized. I do not blame my opponent but I think I know who the culprit is because of a nearby business. If this individual is the culprit I certainly hope he is caught and prosecuted - whoever the culprit or culprits are, I hope that. This one is particularly disgusting to me because the appearance is that it is blatant disregard for the law and disrespect for the rights of citizens.

I hear that a scavenger hunt is in progress in our area and that many campaign signs may have fallen prey to it. The Sheriff and his staff are aware and on the lookout.

Two weeks from tomorrow! Some have said that most voters have made up their minds. Another candidate, who I respect, said it's time to ease up, there's no need to spend any more money, put out any more signs or attend any more functions. Interesting thoughts, to be sure...

Lots to do tomorrow and the weather promises to be even worse than today. Busy day of court and then many campaign and other errands tomorrow night before my trip on Wednesday. Will tell you about that soon - until then -

Less than twenty days now

It's Thursday. We started radio about a week ago and have gotten good feedback there. There has been something every night this week but what else is new? :) Had a very good meeting tonight, met some nice folks and made what seem to be a couple of good contacts.

On the way home, stopped by the grocery store and ran into some friends who'd had my sign in their yard, which was stolen. I'd given them a new one and -- it's been stolen. Discouraging but at this point...bigger fish to fry.

Early voting started yesterday. Three people told me they voted for me today. That's humbling that someone would use their vote for me. I know that's the whole idea of this campaign but I consider each of my votes precious and try to use them wisely - and it's something to be trusted by someone with their vote. Sorry if that sounds odd but it's a genuine feeling.

Saw my #2 son and his wife late this afternoon! He did one of my commercials for me and they are going to be in town sometime between now and the election, hopefully, to do some appearances with me.

The weather's been great this week. Earlier predictions of rain were wrong - or maybe the front has stalled a bit and we'll get it later on. Currently the forecast is for cooler temps, in the 50's by early next week.

I'm supposed to get my Jeep back from the body shop tomorrow and will have to give up my electric blue Ford Focus rental. It's been fun driving a little car - almost has the feel of a sports car, especially compared to the Jeep. But I'll be glad to have my Jeep back. It's been my "campaign headquarters" and will continue to be through the end of this race.

Got a very nice e-mail today from a woman in Georgia who has helped me with the campaign - a point of encouragement for sure.

Tomorrow I'm having lunch with some new friends but other than that will have to pour myself into office work tomorrow. I've kept us as well as I can and have done relatively well - the courts can't stop for the campaign process, that's for sure.

No less than four very important dinners this weekend, plus a couple other "must attend" events. Gotta go rest up for them!

End of the Weekend

I promised a report on the 5k...well, I won a medal for my age-group! But I'm not sure how since truly, I didn't do that well. Well enough, I suppose, for a runner who's had a hard time keeping up with it lately. The course was a very tough one for even a seasoned runner. I found a high-school girl who was having a rough time and I stuck with her for the last 1/3 of the race or so - she said I encouraged her but in fact, she encouraged me. Part of "runner's culture" is helping each other and so we made friends and ran together. Near the end, she urged me to go ahead and I promised I would come back for her, and I was able to sprint to the end - when I turned around to go back and run with her, she was almost on my heels! I was proud of her to say the least - it's odd but very nice how runners develop relationships like that without knowing each other at all. To my young friend: good luck with track and hope to see you in more races in our area!

After the race, ran home for a shower and weighed in a 166.5 - my lowest weight to date since at least age 16! Of course, I'd had nothing at all to eat as of that point, about 11:00 a.m., and I'd run 3.1 miles. Still, it was quite surprising to see the scales that low. Later last evening, I was back up to 171 - amazing fluctuation. I'd put away some food by that time...

Went to a ramp dinner at the 4-H Center yesterday afternoon. It was to last from noon to 4 and I arrived about 12:30 and by 2:00 it seemed pretty much to be over. Most of the candidates who were there had left by that time. Oh, I did manage to squeeze in a haircut between the race and the ramp dinner - much, much needed. My longtime barber, Mario, is a great guy and gives great advice not only about haircuts but also elections!

Speaking of squeeze-ins, I also had time for a nap later in the afternoon, which was helpful for recovery after the race. Then about 4:00 we left for a baked steak dinner at a church near the edge of the county which was out of this world. I love baked steak and not only was that entree featured, there were delicious homemade pies. I had lemon meringue and my wife had coconut cream - I had a hard time passing up the graham cracker but I had to pick! From there, I went to an elimination dinner in Clarksburg which was well attended and enjoyable. Met a lot of nice people, including a couple I'd been hoping to meet for some time.

It started raining about the time I went into that dinner and by the time I left around 8:00 it was raining in earnest. I had to run a quick errand on the way home and the rain started coming down in buckets, the type of rain that causes drivers to pull off the road. I plodded ahead slowly and made it safely home at a decent hour, considering how late some of my Saturday evenings have been lately. My secretary covered a pancake breakfast for me and my case coordinator did some work for me during the day and during the evening, she attended another dinner for me. They have been a great, great support during this campaign.

Today, after church, I spoke to a group at a local restaurant. One of my fine neighbors is in this group and asked me a couple months ago and I was very glad to say yes. They were very nice and very interested in the Family Court. My wife, son and a friend covered a dinner for me right after church and then we met up together to travel to one of our communities in Harrison County for a reception a good friend arranged for me. We had a nice group there - it was actually very relaxing, just visiting, like campaigning should be. Folks talking, trying to work things out, not necessarily always agreeing but always enjoying one another's company.

There is a lot this week. Tomorrow morning, my opponent and I will be together on talk radio for 30 minutes, and people will be able to call in or e-mail questions to the host. In a strange way, I'm looking forward to it. Actually, she and I are very friendly as I've mentioned before and I don't anticipate any change in the next 3 weeks and 2 days. I also have at least three appearances scheduled this week and there are sure to be more - they tend to come up!

A friend who hasn't campaigned with me yet but who's given good advice will be working with me on a project tomorrow night which should be interesting. A bit hard to explain here but I'll try to remember to let you know how it pans out -

Early voting starts Wednesday! And I know at least two votes which have been cast for me already, by absentee ballot. (OK, my daughter is one of them! :)

For me right now, the most important part of the week is a prayer meeting at a friend's house on Tues. night. I'm very much looking forward to it. We've had a couple since this process started but not for a while and I need it.

Spring Fever

Another gorgeous day - about #4 in a row. After a busy day which started with an eye appointment, then a quick drive to Shinnston for a meeting where I killed two birds with one stone by getting my car to the body shop (finally!), then getting my rental Ford Focus (midnight blue :) and heading for my son's school where I "read" to my young friends there - in case I haven't mentioned it in this blog, I don't actually read as much as I tell stories, etc. The kids are fun and very interested in the election - one of them calls himself my campaign manager, another insisted on having a sign for his family's yard, and so on. They are great supporters!

Tonight I kind of took off but not really - the fam and I went out to a public gathering and it actually was very good. Then I ran some errands on my own and now I'm home. Missed a couple dinners tonight but - can't catch everything. Tomorrow morning I'm running a 5k in my orange campaign shirt of course - then a Democratic Party ramp dinner - and two elimination dinners tomorrow night. And I'm sure a few other things sandwiched in between -

I'll let you know how I did in the 5k next post - don't expect any speed records to be broken! Long hill on this course and my time for training has been...er...limited!

Thursday

The fact that I haven't posted since Sunday is some indication of just how busy this week truly has been. Another change since then - the weather is really nice. Today, yesterday and Tuesday have been nothing short of glorious, though it's been chilly at night. I have the Weather Channel on and while I'm seeing continued temps in the 70's, looks like starting Sat. most of the next week will be rainy - ah well -

Discovered more stolen signs - a friend tonight called and said her husband had found one in a trash can! Now that's gall - taking one of my signs down and putting it in the trash. Apparently, the culprit lives in the same apartment building as my friends. I should have it fingerprinted...but not sure that would do any good. People need to understand it's not only just plain wrong, it's a crime to do these things -

Less than four weeks now till the election. It's hard to describe the feelings - SO MUCH to do in so little time. Work still piles up and hearings still have to be held, of course. I'm done with hearings for the week and have at least one appearance during the day tomorrow. Then the weekend!

Monday, my opponent and I are to appear on talk radio together for 1/2 hour. Should be interesting - not quite sure what to expect but we'll try to be as ready as we can. The two candidates for Family Court Judge, Division 2, will be together on the radio in the next 1/2 hour. I'm sure we'll all be listening to each other!

I'm working on getting my Jeep repaired - yes, even though it was Palm Sunday that I got hit, I've been driving around all over the place since then with a badly dented left front fender. Possibly, I'll be able to turn it over to the body shop tomorrow, if I can get his insurance company to get me the promised rental, that is!

Reading to my youngest's class tomorrow - something I've done every month of the academic year during his grade school career. These kids are all my fans - which is nice. I know who'd win the election if they were voting - and it'd be unanimous! :)

Sign Stealers

It's Sunday...the end of the weekend, the "day of rest." Actually, comparatively speaking, it has been at least less hectic. Went to one church hot dog luncheon and then to a spaghetti dinner, then home. I wanted to take a nap but thankfully, fought that urge, and got several signs out this afternoon. (More on signs later - hence, the title.) This evening, I need to inventory all the campaign paraphernalia I have left, go over my calendar, and get organized for the week.

My wife did get home from Haiti :) However, the East Coast was socked in with fog and she was flying American Airlines which had to cancel many flights late last week due to FAA inspection issues, so for all those reasons her arrival in Pittsburgh was delayed by more than 4 hours. She got home about 1:30 a.m. and I had to get up bright and early yesterday for ten different apperances. I did manage to stop by the house a couple times during the day and then made it home for good about 9:30 last night. I should have been dog tired but actually was in pretty good shape - then. I'm tired today!

I believe I've mentioned that some signs have been stolen. Well, today, I learned about two more, and both were in friends' yards. Also, something interesting...I put one sign out in a certain roadside location, an intersection, a couple weeks ago. I was by there on Thursday and my sign was gone - apparently stolen. I put a new one in its place. Yesterday, as I approached that same intersection from another direction, the newly-placed sign was still there, and I could see my other sign in a shallow ravine right by the road. It was a steep slide down almost into a creek to get it but I got it! Then today...again by the same intersection and my new sign was gone! You guessed it - it was in the ravine! I got this one, too, and replaced the sign once again although I did select a location several feet away this time.

Frankly, the mentality of the people who steal campaign signs has to be about zero. I feel sorry for them - truly - and while I recognize it happens to other candidates, and while a percentage of it could be youthful pranking, I feel rather certain that most of it is done by dull-thinking adults who basically cheat their way through life. For those folks who have robbed me, whether they have done so because they don't support me or because they support my opponent, I hope they are caught and prosecuted. By the way - I've talked directly to my opponent about these things and I never for a minute would consider that she has anything to do with this or any knowledge of it. She's an honorable person and I'm confident she feels the same about me. For our parts, we've run a clean campaign and I'm sure it will remain that way to the end - one month from today now! When we first spoke on January 14 about being opponents, we agreed that we would "keep it clean" and I'm glad to say we have been very successful as far as that goes.

My youngest is getting his Spring Break extended because there's a boil-water advisory in this area, so no school tomorrow. We had an EColi scare last week but all is getting back to normal now. The Water Board did a good job, I think, of getting the word out and imposing the advisory for safety's sake.

A busy week ahead - I have much to do at the office, not to mention three daytime appearances and at least three evening appearances before Friday. Then, when Friday-Saturday-Sunday rolls around, we'll do the multiple-appearances thing all over again. Four weeks and two days! Have a good week, everyone...