Sunday, August 26, 2012

Grits, Bacon & Chocolate Cake - A Southern Gal's Dream

This morning started out great.  We were excited to leave Ocala and finally arrive in Tampa.  About 10 miles into our drive toward the RNC I realized I left my pillow on the bed in the hotel room we were leaving.  You know every southern gal needs her beauty sleep.  Hopefully the GA Delegation Planning Committee made sure we girls have comfy pillows!

Our accommodations are gorgeous,

 And so is our view...
The morning began with a wonderful southern brunch.  Crispy bacon, grits with red eye gravy, and of course a large selection of desserts.  Once our bellies were full we were greeted by GA GOP Chairman, Sue Everhart. 

 Next, we heard some encouraging and exciting remarks from Gov. Nathan Deal. 

 A special guest, RNC Chairman, Reince Priebus, stopped by to welcome the GA Delegation to Tampa and to the Convention.  He is a humorous and motivating gentleman.  He had great things to say about the Georgia Delegation, which is no surprise to me - I always knew we had the best representation in the Nation!!

 We were given a lot of "housekeeping" information and to be honest I somewhat checked out after awhile.  I suppose my  habit of multi-tasking has made it difficult for me to just sit.  I have been amused at many of the security rules that we have to abide by.  The most interesting, and concerning, is the "NO UMBRELLA" rule.  Not sure how we will swing that considering there is a hurricane brewing?? 
The morning did turn exciting though when we were given the process for casting our first vote for our choice for nominee.  The delegates were asked to stand and we were asked to raise our hand if we were NOT planning on casting our vote for the Romney/Ryan ticket.  In a room of around 300 people (with 76 delegates) only one delegate indicated she would NOT vote for Romney/Ryan.  She was asked who she planned to vote for and why.  It was explained to her that her choice would not be receiving the nomination and would she consider changing her vote.  She declined and so that leaves 75 of 76 delegate votes from GA going to Romney/Ryan.  We then went up to the podium and signed a petition for Presidential Nominee and VP Nominee.  That is how the first vote was taken.  Not what I expected, but I suppose this entire process is a bit of an unknown.

Afterward we were herded, literally like cattle, into a room to have a group photograph take.  All delegates, alternates, guests, and elected officials were in the photo.  It was pretty cool to be included in a photo with our state's leaders. 

Here is a picture of me with my better half.  He truly is my support and my rock.  I often tell people that I would not be able to be involved in politics at this level if not for him - and that is the honest truth!!

 Gary Black is by far one of my favorite "politicians".  He is a perfect example of a servant leader.  He is always willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done, even if it requires getting his own boots a little muddy.  GA is blessed to have Gary Black as our Commissioner of Agriculture.  He is a great American and friend!

Our First Lady of GA, Sandra Deal, was a hoot at the brunch this morning.  She spoke honestly about her role as First Lady and all she is doing to bring encouragement to those in education and other areas of service in our communities.  

 Finally, our welcome packets.  We drove our energy efficient vehicle to Tampa and don't have much room to bring stuff home.  We may have to rent a Uhaul.  I received two large bags and my husband was given a bag as well.  They are stuffed full of all kinds of goodies.  I know my children will be thrilled with all the trinkets.  

My Delegate Pin.
 Quick photo of some of the loot that we will be bringing home.  

 So that will be all for now.  We have a Welcome Party tonight that should be fun.  I will update later.  Since y'all are all my dearest friends you know what I always do on Sundays - NAP!  RNC or not, I must get my nap!  So - see ya!

3 comments:

  1. Melanie,
    It sounds like you guys are having an amazing time! Praying that things continue to go well, that you are safe from the storm, and that God's will is accomplished! I'm so glad you are blogging about your experiences... and it's my pleasure to get to read all about your journey!

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  2. So excited to being following this important week through you eyes (and blog)! Praying for yall and can't wait to hear some great stories!

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  3. How fun! Sandra Deal is hilarious! We had our family reunion the other week at the Governor's Mansion. She's somehow a cousin on my dad's side of the family (I think my great great grandfather is her great grandfather). Behind on reading your posts but enjoying them even late. :)

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