Melissa here: after Tuesday’s primary, we shift into higher gear to make sure Robin is our Representative in Montpelier.  Robin received endorsements from both John Malcolm and Perry Waite ~ it is good to have their trust in him.  Last night Robin knocked on doors with Ellen David Friedman at his side, availing himself of her considerable experience.  And this week, the lawn signs arrived, just in time for the Tuesday polls!

On Friday I had the privilege to attend the memorial service for Senator Jeffords at Grace Church in Rutland. Though many political luminaries were in attendance the tone was one of humor, celebration, and respect. Speakers were mostly family and friends recounting the quirks and anecdotes of their friend/father/boss, celebrating the man rather than the offices he held.

The main thing to shine through was his authenticity, and although his moment in the national limelight was certainly recognized, the emphasis was on the father who seldom missed his children’s games, the Representative who first lived in Washington DC in his camper parked behind the Holiday Inn, and the grandfather who played with his staffer’s children. RIP Gentleman Jim.

Last night in Pawlet the band played, the food sizzled on the grill, neighbors chatted and caught up, and we talked just a tiny bit of politics (honest!). Where were we? At our Pawlet kick-off campaign event. Thanks to all those who came out. It was a pleasure to meet new friends and get things rolling in Pawlet!

A great and productive day – brunch meeting with some people to gather advice and make plans, then walked with Chris Larson, Rich Larson and Wendy Herrick in the parade. Stayed around and talked to people afterward.

More great news for this campaign – Kimberly Bushnell Mathewson will be taking on managing the organizational details with Melissa, who is excited to be working with Kimberly again.

Sunday –

Out door knocking in Pawlet, listening to a wide variety of concerns and meeting lots of wonderful people. Got invited in for a drink but had to take a raincheck.