Life is always about the next big adventure. Tonight was the last day of the 80th Texas Legislative Session. The House adjourned shortly after midnight. I look back at the time I have spent here. When I first arrived here, it was to be a big adventure. I was going to participate in a process in which I had only textbook knowledge. The Capitol stands so majestic in the Austin skyline; it humbles you a bit when you walk its halls. There is so much to learn and discover during the session; in fact, your first lesson is to learn who to call for help.
At first, I made efforts to get to know people from different offices. I think my reputation preceded me and there may have been some concern that I would blog everything I heard. I think that after establishing some rapport, that fear went away. Who knew that I would actually practice some discretion? I was rebuffed and then I was accepted.
The adventure took a turn when I got the opportunity to work for a House committee. There would be more to learn. There was so much to learn. The days were long. The deadlines were short. Work built up and up. Then it stopped. I had an entire week in limbo.
Going back to work where I started would be pointless. When you are out of the loop, you just get in the way. I’ve enjoyed some “time off”. I take that as preparation for my next big adventure. I have not seen my family in months due to my work commitments. In the committee office, I had to work Friday and be there Monday morning. Unlike the representatives, I could not go home on Thursday and come back Monday afternoon. I could have driven home on Friday evening and returned Sunday evening; however, I would not have rested for the coming week. Families that miss you want to spend time with you.
Now the session is over. I have the time. It is now time for the next big adventure, getting back in touch with my family. I am going home to my wife and children. I will once again see my mother and sister. I will once again visit my in-laws on Sundays. There are friends back home. There is life back home. With life, there are challenges. I’ll make these challenges my next big adventure. It is over, I am going home.
