Yes Really, Family Does Come First
Friday, November 23, 2012 at 09:38PM When I was going door to door for my landslide election win last month, I happened to run into former alderman, State Rep and Senator Betsi DeVries. She said something with which I totally agree. Last year, she decided not to run for alderman again because her husband is ill, and she`s helping with his care.
"Family and friends come first," she stated.
How true it is. I can`t imagine how so many elected officials manage to provide the amount of time necessary for their families, especially when they must supplement their $100 a year jobs as New Hampshire Reps and Senators with jobs in the real world.
Of course, I`ve never had a wife and kids, but as I get older, I realize just how much family matters.
Thanksgiving has become my favorite holiday because I get to spend it with my brother and his extended family.
Yesterday was one of the most enjoyable days I can ever remember.
All the food was delicious (I make the stuffing; my brother’s mashed potatoes and gravy were the best ever; the turkey fell on the floor, but we managed to salvage it--nice and dry...just the way I like it...sorry all you moist lovers).
The best part was after dinner. As I was about to help with the clean-up, somehow it was suggested that I watch two young grandchildren instead...so we set off with the eight year old on a bike and the four year old on a trike on a magnificent adventure to play land. You know me; I don’t believe in controlling other people’s lives, so whenever they ask me if they could do such and such, of course my answer was, "Of course; do whatever you want."
The only problem was that they didn’t always want to do the same thing; she wanted to go to the playground; he to the skateboard park; so we did both of course.
I may not be liked or admired by everyone in the New Hampshire House (I’ve always prided myself on the bigots who don’t like me), but after yesterday, my popularity is way up with two young Vermonters (New Yorkers actually) named Violent and Aiden.
I see to be getting more, rather than less tolerant, with the noise and fury of the grandchildren...time was I used to get tired just listening to them...now, I can’t wait to see how they are at five and nine next year.
And my brother is just the greatest. In fact, he shares a birthday was my second favorite person on the planet, Rep. Irene Messier who deserved better than what happened election day from the voters of Ward 10 after 30 years of service to them.
Reader Comments (5)
You're a good guy! I always knew it!
Loved your Thanksgiving item.
Hint:
Children always test limits to see if you care about them - it is natural.
When you let them do as they please you only make yourself feel good for a while.
Little kids, especially, need structure.
– C. dog