Edwards Says Votes Count, Not Money

Rain begins to fall as Democratic presidential hopeful former U.S. Sen. John Edwards of North Carolina walks with his family, wife, Elizabeth and children, Jack, and Emma Claire, at a firefighter's muster in Moultonborough, N.H., Saturday, July 7, 2007. Edwards' is vacationing in New Hampshire with his family. (AP Photo/Jim Cole) (Jim Cole - AP)

"You shouldn't be talking about that. I'll complain about it for anybody. I'd much rather have you talk, not about how they look and what they're wearing or how attractive they are, but what it is they have to say. That's what's going to matter, their rationale for being president, what it is they're going to do. That's what is going to matter in the long run."

The Edwardses are vacation in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, borrowing the cottage of a state senator and supporter. Earlier in the day, the Edwards clan went fishing, visited a firefighters' competition and a fed trout in a pond. The stops were not campaign events; Edwards wore jeans and a T-shirt, not his typical button-down campaign trail uniform.

"There's never a complete break, you know. This is about as relaxed as it can be during a presidential campaign," John Edwards said. "That just goes with the territory. We knew this already. We've been through this before."

His two children, Jack and Emma Claire, ran through the crowds, ate their hamburgers and hot-dogs.

"I think they understand it. They understand what's at stake," John Edwards said. "They like traveling. They're very flexible, They're very adjustable. They love being around people. They're not that excited about hearing mom or dad give another speech. That part they can deal without."

Their parents walked with them through the field where firefighters tested their skills with water challenges and other competitions.

"I've got to choose how I'm going to spend my days," said Elizabeth, who has announced her cancer has returned in a tougher variety. "If I'm willing to spend them this way, it's because I believe that John is not only should be the candidate, but will be the nominee."

She said she's doing well.

"I feel strong and healthy. I'm still not fast enough to keep up with these kids," Elizabeth said.

"Nobody is," her husband said.