Swearing In!!!

Representative Thomas Latham, District 101

Well, it's official! We took the kids out of school and went down to Austin to watch dad be sworn in. Mom and I got to sit on the floor with him for the oath and for the proceeding Speaker's fight to the death! Finally about 2:00 I had to leave the floor. I had wanted to sit there till it was all over, but I was so disgusted and frustrated I had to leave before I took floor and let them know exactly what "the public" really thought! The more I am there and the more I get to know the players, the less Republican I become. I know that's hard for you to believe! What I have discovered is that I don't really care whether they are Democrat or Republican, but what I admire is content and strength of character. Who cares what party you are as long as you have the courage to vote your district.

The other observation I made is that the Legislature could accomplish twice as much if they would all sit down and be quiet. They are all up wandering around, talking on the phone....as a teacher that drives me NUTS!! Also, if they'd ive me five minutes with those pages, I could teach them to pass out papers MUCH more efficiantly!

It was a great day. Lots of friends from Sunnyvale and Mesquite made the long trip to Austin to be with dad on opening day. Nick was a huge hit in is dress uniform with all his ribbons and medals. Later that night we celebrated at Sullivan's Steakhouse.

Blessings,

Leslie