A Private Day for a Public Servant

At last, a day to catch my breath.

Here's a rundown of activities since last I blogged:

Wednesday:
--Lunch and info forum by a group opposing casino gambling
--Public hearing at the Selectmen's meeting for one of the towns in my district, to hear plans for a state highway fleet fueling facility which would be located close to wellhead protection zones and the town water supply. The residents stated their opposition in no uncertain terms, and I think their feelings have already been persuasive. The Commissioner showed up and admitted that they are already re-thinking this proposal and considering other locations. Seven State Reps and one State Senator were present.

Thursday:
--Freshman Legislator Orientation (info and introductions)
--Public Policy presentation in Representatives Hall on Liveable Wage
--Lunch hour: I didn't actually eat any, I checked my email in the Cyber Room of the Legislative Office Building and trotted across the street to the diocesan office to photocopy a meeting agenda
--Party Caucus: Agenda setting
--Planning Meeting for Diocesan Spring Event
--Diocesan Council Meeting (I'm the Moderator)

I had five, count 'em, five different meetings yesterday. I could've crammed in a sixth had I not used the noon hour for other purposes.

When I got home last night, the Chap made dinner for me--very sweet, considering he'd had a long and busy day as well. Then we watched My Name is Earl, The Office, and 30 Rock. After a day of being a policy wonk and high-level diocesan operative, it felt good to sit back and be entertained. (And to cuddle with Ruth and Lola.)

Earlier in the week I purchased copies of the magazine with my article about The Lodge (my comps still aren't here....) The accompanying illustration of our abode is fantastic and faithful, so I negotiated with the artist to acquire a print as well as a digital image (so I can create my own Lodge-y notecards or mailing labels or Christmas cards or whatever).

Here's a scan of the essay as it appears in print:



This morning I was busy with RSVP's to entities inviting me to receptions and breakfasts and forums and things--the interest groups never fail to bait the trap with food. In my case, that isn't necessarily an incentive. There has to be some other reason for showing up. Even our Governor lured me to meet with him by promising coffee! (But I would've accepted his invitation regardless).

I'm looking forward to a weekend of social activities and entertainment. One involves diocesan chums, the other has political overtones, but both will be fun, fun, fun--and funny.