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I watched the memorial for Lady Bird Johnson this weekend. Along with those in attendance, I laughed and cried along with them as they shared their memories. I'm not from Texas, but even as a young child I'd heard about Lady Bird.

This year has seen the loss of some strong Texas women. It pains me to see people that we could all genuinely love and admire pass without anyone to pick up their torch. As I watched the former first ladies at the memorial I wondered if they all were thinking of what legacy they would leave.

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Nancy Reagan, looking frail, has only redeemed herself in my eyes for her dignity in being a caregiver for her husband. Speaking out in support of stem cell research, but I think she could have been louder when she said it.

Barbara Bush...in a pantsuit, no less. Barbara Bush was beloved by America because, in her pearls, you thought she looked like a nice old lady. Even if she is a little mannish. Barbara must be in contention for worst former first lady, ever. Oh, that's right she did give money to the Houston schools or something...but she made it contingent on them purchasing products from her son.

Rosalyn Carter was there, too. She looks good. She's aged well. I think that must be what they call clean living. I personally wouldn't know about that. Mrs. Carter wasn't ever the firebrand that some of the other first ladies were, but she supports her husband and their tireless efforts for Habitat for Humanity make me ashamed of my selfishness.

Hillary was there, too. Remember...she was a first lady. As much grief as I give Mrs. Clinton, she ain't all bad. I can't believe I'm saying it, but she's kinda growing on me. I think she's smart and she wants to do right by us. That's more than I can say about a lot of politicians these days.

As I look back on the deaths of Lady Bird, Molly Ivins and Ann Richards I remember how my heroes have always been women. Strong and gracious, smart and delicate. Texas, and the nation, is losing our most precious resource. Women that inspire us all to greatness.

God Bless them and may God Bless us in their absence.