The most important power of the legislature is to appropriate money, to control the purse strings. Where does the money come from and where does it go? How does the legislature prepare the budget? What were the budget priorities of New Mexico governors and what did legislators want? What did they fight about and how did they compromise? What spending and tax initiatives improved New Mexico's economy and quality of life? David Abbey was a finance and budget expert at the state capitol during the administrations of seven New Mexico governors, from Toney Anaya in 1983 to Michelle Lujan Grisham. Abbey was known for his broad knowledge of New Mexico history and geography, towns, crossroads and ruins, economic activity and social and cultural interests. He hired an exceptional staff to find workable solutions in the face of sometimes bitter partisan divides. Sometimes he was on point maneuvering through the political thicket. Sometimes he had a worm's eye view from the gutter. Abbey wraps up with a review of key metrics for New Mexico and suggestions to improve social and economic conditions.