We are now in our final week of the 61st session of the Montana Legislature. We are finalizing three very important bills at this time, HB 2 (state budget), HB 645 (stimulus bill) and HB 658 (mitigate reappraisal).

All three of these bills are being finely tuned and will probably be passed out of conference committee by the time this article is published. All three of these bills are partially interconnected, complex and will probably be the trifecta of bills by which this session will be measured. In the end, we have done our best to keep government growth at a minimum, reduce taxes were possible and keep and protect our personal and property rights.

Over the past four months, I have given my best effort to gain knowledge, build new relationships and learn the business of government. It has been a tremendous education for me personally. It has also been a welcome experience for my wife and family. They have been wonderful. All of our children have worked a little harder to lighten the additional load of my dear wife Jill, who has been an absolute gem.

I have learned two things while I have been gone. First, I have learned something that no man wants to admit, my wife really doesn't need me! Its true; she handles the home life with nine children more efficiently, more patiently and certainly more orderly than I have ever attempted. Second, I have reaffirmed that she is the love of my life. She is my soul mate and a my better half.

During this process I have done my best to represent House District 9. I have heard for many of you with various views and opinions. I have relied on your opinions to either strengthen my own or to give me pause. This process is truly is an education. I have learned many new facets of government while at the same time holding fast to my core principles.

My experience as State Representative has been extraordinary. With a citizen Legislature, we have the best type of state government. None of us are professionals. Once the session is over, we all head back home to our jobs. Some of us are ranchers, farmers, teachers or self employed. The lucky ones are retired. We all, both Democrats and Republicans, are working hard for the betterment of the state of Montana. I feel it a pleasure to serve you as your Representative. It has been a honor and privilege. It has truly been the experience of lifetime.

I look forward to working on interim committees as well as working on bills that will improve our government. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you in the future. Thank you for all the support that you all have given to me and my family. We have received much more than we have given.