Romney McDaniel: Rain delays RNC, but fun just beginning

The first day of Convention was postponed due to the threat of Isaac. Tampa escaped the storm but attendees continue to watch its path, worried and praying for the people of Louisiana.

The Michigan Delegation still had a full slate of activities on Monday. In the morning, we hear from Governor Snyder, Newt Gingrich, and my cousin Craig Romney. He tells a fun story about his young son who had campaigned with Mitt last go around and had traveled to 34 states by the age of two. One day, Craig found him in his room delivering a stump speech to an audience of stuffed animals. Craig spoke of his personal connection to Michigan through our grandfather, George Romney, and spending time with him. He spoke about Mitt being a devoted father, how of all his dad’s many successes, whether starting businesses, saving the Olympics or turning around Massachusetts, his most treasured role has been as a father, grandfather and husband.

In the afternoon, we attend the Tribute to Gerald Ford luncheon. Attorney General Bill Schuette, Michigan GOP Chairman Bib Shostak, Ambassador Secchia and Congressman Mike Rogers spoke. Rogers spoke passionately about the importance of this election. We left the luncheon to be on the floor of the convention hall to witness Reince Priebus call the convention to order only to quickly send it to recess. Chairman Priebus also pointed out the debt clock that displays our staggering National Debt and a second clock showing the debt accumulated over the course of the convention. The Michigan Delegation is front and center. Best seats in the house!

We then toured the rest of the hall and took a peek at where the family will sit when Mitt speaks. Everywhere in the hall are pictures of Ann and Mitt from all stages of their lives. My dad, grandpa, grandmother and many other family members are in these pictures. The hall is a giant family photo album. The rain delay gives me time to explore the hall, I am able to take the entire experience in, realizing how historical this moment is for the nation and especially our family.