Some say that 13 is an unlucky number. And that Friday the 13th is the unluckiest day of them all. I was never caught up with all of that -- until now.

You see, I've only known good things to happen on the 13th. In fact, one of my cousins was both born and married on that day. Today is her 10th wedding anniversary.

In future years, it will also stand as another, more solemn, anniversary.

My aunt passed away late this afternoon. It was not completely unexpected, but is still (a little) overwhelming and (a lot) sad. She was only 78. It was far too soon to lose her, and I already miss her terribly.

Several hours before my aunt's death, word spread of the sudden death from apparent heart attack of NBC News' chief Washington correspondent and "Meet the Press" host Tim Russert. He was 58.

The past few days have been tough for me and my family. On Wednesday, I was able to visit my aunt, hold her hand and talk to her one last time. Although she did not respond, I'd like to think she knew I was there.

Unfortunately, unlike me and my family, Russert's family didn't even have a chance to say goodbye. He collapsed at NBC's Washington bureau, where he was doing voiceovers for Sunday's show. He was taken to Sibley Memorial Hospital, where resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.

May you both rest in peace.