At this time of year when many observe a period of reflection and of waiting, more commonly known as Advent, I also take stock of the year that was and begin planning for the opportunities ahead in 2014. As I list the things for which I am thankful and try to outline resolutions for the New Year, I am compelled to first acknowledge the great honor given to me by the citizens of the 97th District for another term in the Virginia House of Delegates. Ashley joins me in thanking you for your continued support and friendship.

With our election past, it is time to begin the process of governing, especially with the new Assembly session convening on January 8th. Governing is not always easy, and after this fall's statewide election cycle the landscape on Capitol Hill is dramatically different than what we have experienced over the past four years. Since being elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2006, I have worked with my General Assembly colleagues and two Administrations to find common-sense conservative solutions to our state's problems and I will continue to do so.

But let's face facts. 2013 was not a stellar year for the Grand Old Party in Virginia. There are now no statewide Republican office holders elected for the first time since the late 1960's. Noteworthy leaders of our party have recently outlined strong ideas for victory in the coming years and much of what has been said is common sense. If I were to summarize the sentiment I would repeat what I have said for a long time, "we just need to be normal." It shouldn't be hard, should it? But what does normal mean? To me, it is about caring about people first. How can you expect people to vote for you if you cannot relate. Those of us with leadership positions must present solutions to problems that everyday Virginians face. We need to listen to the members of our community who may maintain different perspectives and still acknowledge that they are also Virginians. We are not enemies; we are neighbors. Let's us inquire "Is what we hold in common greater than what separates us?" I pray so for if not then the fabric of our society and social compact that leads to order and prosperity are in serious jeopardy. By listening and working together for the common good, Virginia will be the better in spite of the cynics. And it might surprise some, that this form civil engagement might also win elections. Therefore, to my Republican friends, compromise is not capitulation. And now is not the time to be disillusioned, retreat and miss opportunities to engage. It is quite the opposite.

As your elected leaders, we need to create a climate where Virginia is a better place to live, work and raise a family. We have tremendous responsibilities to be good stewards of the public trust and of public resources. For me, the march forward began after the elections were over. With the potential of essentially becoming a Republican minority on Capitol Hill, as a member in the only Republican body remaining after the elections, I thought about how my constituents would benefit if I were to adopt the more popular political mantra of "I hope they fail." By sitting out the next few years, we do our constituents, our state and our future a disservice. It is important to find a seat at the table and be willing to find ways to keep Virginia competitive for jobs, with a low tax burden, great colleges and universities and a place pursue the American Dream.

For 2014 and beyond, I commit myself to this "Virginia Way" and have faith that we may find common ground wherever practicable for the purposes of meeting the needs of the Commonwealth and her citizens.

Second in a series of annual collectible ornaments, the 2013 Virginia Capitol Ornament features the historic Bell Tower on Capitol Square. 

Finished in brilliant 24K gold over polished brass, made entirely in the U.S.A, and presented in a handsome gift box, the ornament makes a perfect gift for colleagues and friends. 

All proceeds support the Virginia Capitol Foundation's mission to enhance the educational and cultural potential of Capitol Square's historic treasures through program development and community engagement. 

The First Annual Virginia Capitol Ornament*, introduced in 2012, featured the Jefferson-designed Capitol.  "The Foundation is pleased to be able to offer these limited-edition ornaments to celebrate and support Capitol Square while establishing a new tradition for the Commonwealth," said Foundation Trustee and program chair Wendy Church Sydnor.

Cost per ornament:    

1 or 2 $23.50 each + $5 shipping

3 or 4 $21.50 each + $10 shipping

5 or more - $19.50 each (call for shipping cost)

Call with credit card (804) 786-1010.  Mail check payable to VCF, P.O. Box 396, Richmond, VA 23218.  Go online to our secure site: https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/VirginiaCapitolPreservationFo/ornamentsale.html  

*A limited number of 2012 ornaments are available.  Please visit our website at http://virginiacapitol.gov 

The Virginia Capitol Foundation is the nonprofit advocate for the Capitol, Capitol Square, and Executive Mansion, enhancing the educational, cultural, and economic potential of Capitol Square's historic treasures through program development and community engagement.