I'm excited to be starting my second term as an Arizona legislator.  I've been working during our off time, and have bills already dropped and ready to be dropped.  I'll be letting you know as they progress through the system.  It has been so different this time.  When I was first sworn in, I really didn't know what to expect and had not arrived with any pending ideas for specific legislation.  This year, not only did I know exactly what was happening but also had lots of things that needed to get done.  It seemed hard to get organized, but I did it and am ready and eager to go.

To complicate matters, I was assigned a different office (3rd floor, with a window -- a definite improvement) and had to move files and all the "stuff" I had accumulated over the past two years.  I was fortunate in that my assistant, Lois Ann, was able to move with me.  We have developed a very good working relationship, and I rely on her to keep me on track.

The opening day was also very exciting as we had Justice Sandra Day O'Conner giving us the oath of office.  She had previously sworn in the Governor and other state officials on Thursday, and made the comment that she was now just "an unemployed cowgirl."

I was privileged to have good friends from Southern California and West Virginia in Phoenix to share the day with me, along with Paul.  It's always fun to show people around the Capitol and the House building.  If you're in Phoenix and would like "the tour," please call my office and I'd be happy to oblige.

This will be a short week and that will make it even more hectic.  The pace is always fast, and we have a lot to accomplish.  I'll keep you informed as the session goes on.

Until next week,

Nancy McLain