In a past life, that occupied a lot of my entire life, I did presidential campaign advance.  In that capacity, I worked for John Edwards’ campaigns in 2003, 2004 and 2007.  One of my favorite campaigns comes from 2004.  I spent a few weeks in South Carolina working on the primary there (we won, it was great).

The day after the primary I flew back to Washington, DC.  I noticed Elizabeth Edwards on the flight but, not being a jerk, I didn’t bother her on the flight.  (For the record, it was a commercial, all coach flight.)  While waiting for my luggage, however, she was next to me so I said hello.  We talked about South Carolina and random things you talk about with people you really only know marginally.  I found her to be really genuine and honestly friendly.  When I got home I was a much bigger supporter than when I left for SC.  When we got our bags, she turned me and said, “I am so sorry but I cannot drive you home.  I have not been to the grocery store in weeks and the kids are getting home today.”  It never would have occurred to me to ask for such a think but still think that was a sweet thing to say.

That is one of my favorite stories from the campaign trail.

Elizabeth Edwards’ passing today may not have been totally unexpected but that doesn’t make that any less sad. She will be missed.  A lot.