Former First Lady Laura Bush spoke last Friday at the Governor’s Trade and Business Conference at the Boise Centre, presented by Zions Bank. Listening to her talk about “taking advantage of life as it is,” caused me to realize something.

Mrs. Bush and her husband, former President George W. Bush, probably were the most “normal” people to occupy the White House – at least since the Carters. Other presidents and first ladies had their charm, of course. Ronald Reagan was the great communicator with tremendous personal appeal, but his career as a Hollywood actor was anything but “normal.” George H.W. Bush and Barbara are models for aging with grace and dignity, but his background with the CIA and career in politics were as abnormal by almost anyone’s standard. I had the pleasure of being acquainted with the Clintons during my early days as a reporter in Arkansas, but they always had their eye on higher political ambitions. The Obamas, who shine before large crowds, hardly come across as couples who clip coupons from the Sunday newspaper/Chuck Malloy, Idaho Politics Weekly. More here.

Question: Who is your favorite First Lady?