Secondly, since Paul has resigned effective at the end of next month, my greatest hope is that he can put his family life back together. He's got some legal stuff that will be drug out as long as possible by right-wing opportunists, but I am confident that he will be working on putting his marriage back on track.

Many have asked my feelings on hearing the news. Did I feel betrayed? Was I angry? I can honestly say, "no." I felt sad. I felt disappointed. Not for an elected official, but for two friends. We have shared some fun times with Paul and Joyce Morrison. You meet a lot of people in politics and they are two of the best.

I am sure at one time or another, all of us have disappointed family and friends. Sometimes good people do bad things. Your family and true friends forgive and stand by you.

During this season of hope, I give my best wishes to the Morrison family and can't wait to see them again.

* * *

The Morrison/Carter information was released by the Johnson County prosecutor's office. Oh, that happens to be Phill Kline. Would Phill Kline orchestrate the timing for releasing this information just because he happened to be under investigation by the Wichita and Topeka media? Hell yes, he would. And I think he did.

It seems that Phill doesn't think it necessary to put in a full 40-hour week for his $140,000 plus annual salary. Actually, he hasn't logged many 30-hour weeks.

Not only that, it seems that Phill doesn't spend much (or any) time in his Johnson County apartment. Did I mention he is required to live in Johnson County to collect his generous salary? The media covering the Klines found that he left his home in Topeka every morning they had it staked out. For those of you who are geographically challenged, Topeka is not in Johnson County.

Perhaps, Phill Kline will do the honorable thing and resign his position for these obvious violations. Phill Kline and honorable in the same sentence. Ain't that rich?

* * *

As I've said in the past, I hate the cold and I hate the snow. But one thing about snow; it appears to bring out the best in most people. People like to help each other out; and it seems like the more snow, the more help.

I looked out the window and saw Dottie shoveling the driveway. I immediately looked for and found my best gloves -- and ran them out to her. I spoil that woman so.

Neighbor Gator had a blade on his ATV and was clearing everyone's sidewalks and making paths in the street. Neighbor Mike yelled at Dottie from across the street and said he'd soon be over with his snow blower (I think he was trying to one up me). Neighbor Chad was shoveling so I took him over half a snowshoe.

A snowshoe is half peppermint schnapps and half bourbon served in a jigger. I didn't have any schnapps, but the shoe was full.

* * *

For the next week or so, many of our homes will be filled with extra people to entertain. How about recruiting them to design Kansas' new personalized license plates that go into production in 2010? Fun for the entire family!

Designs must be postmarked on or before Dec. 31, 2007, and by mid-January you will know if your design is one of three that will be used. For more information, use this link.

* * *

Perhaps, you know someone that has lost a family member this past year. Take a moment and give them a call. Most likely it will be the best present you both receive.

(First posted to the Hays Daily News)