My oldest daughter, Grace, and I participated in THSC's final Capitol Day for 2007. The Texas legislature was in its final weeks of the sesson so everyone was really busy. A group of about 250 homeschoolers and their parents spent the morning with THSC's Tim Lambert and other staff learning about the highlights (and lowlights) of the session and general information about Texas lawmaking. Rep. Corte also addressed the group and answered questions for about 20 minutes. We then headed to the Capitol building.
Capitol steps All families were part of a team of 4 to 6 students with their parents. Some teams had one family. The two of us we joined with the Hastings. 
Our team deliversAbout 50 teams spread out across the capitol complex to deliver cookies to each Senator's and Representative's office, to cheer the weary and show our appreciation of the hard work done in the session. We didn't meet any senators or representatives in their offices, but the staff members seemed grateful that we weren't there to add another burden to their full agendas.
We then watched the House in session. 
Texas HouseBills were passed as quickly as they were mentioned. Each representatve cast their own vote, then typically leaned over the desk and cast ballots for other representatives who were not even in the chamber. This is apparently part of the process, but you get the idea that the whole system is out of control. The legislature is supposed to meet only 140 days every 2 years so they can pass essential laws. Instead, it seems to be an excuse to hurry and pass anything that sounds remotely feasible.
The Senate was in recess. Nobody seemed to knew why, as they were a couple hours overdue from resuming the morning recess. Speculation was that backroom squabbling was underway. The whole THSC group reconvened near the cafeteria for a final question/answer session with Mr. Lambert.
An educational experience indeed. We saw other groups, apparently from institutional schools, touring the Capitol. Not a bad thing for them to do, but they were not able to really be part of the process as we were. Not being part of the government school system, we are free to be part of that government - even as part of our schooling. Those in the government system were able to be spectators and learn about the system, but not participate while under that government's care. I understand why this is and do not want the government using the children they are discipling to actively lobby for that government's agenda. However, in a way they were teaching the government's students a powerful lesson - "You can watch and ask questions, but leave the real work to the professional politicians. We appreciate your cooperation. Thanks for dropping by."
Remember, all of life is education. We are always learning and those in our midst are always trying to teach us something.
World Changers
Things are looking up
