As I traveled home one recent Sunday afternoon, I gripped for the expected tossing and jolting that I-17 north of Happy Valley Road normally offers drivers. I stayed prepared, but eventually realized that the 5 mile long series of potholes and ruts in the road were finally gone. A sense of pride mixed with relief washed over me. As silly as it sounds now, I was actually moved nearly to tears.
You see, it isn't just about a re-paved road. It is about the sacrifices made by myself, my son, my husband, all of my friends and family, and numerous volunteers that led to this smooth road. Because, the fact of the matter is that this road was not to be re-paved for two more years and I had a lot to do with that date being pushed forward. I don't say that to brag or boast. On the contrary, because if not for the efforts of the folks who worked my campaign, or donated money for it, I would not be in the legislature (and vice chair of the Transportation Committee). I owe a lot of thanks to a lot of people who were all part of building this road.
Bottom line? The voters of district six sent me to the legislature to get some things done and I was driving on one of the things they wanted done. I felt gratified for the opportunity to make a difference. I felt overcome with the sense of purpose as I realized that one person really can make a difference if they will just say "yes" and then get to work. Thank you, district 6 voters, for giving me the chance to get in there and make our little piece of the state a safer and more enjoyable place to drive.
It may not be the most important thing I will accomplish in my time there, but it certainly is a smooth ride.
