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...
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
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 :)
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 :)
Thursday, May 22, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
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!
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!
Monday, May 12, 2008
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!
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 --
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 --
