U.S. Rep. Leonard Boswell hosted a luncheon for members of the Iowa delegation at his daughter Cindy's home in Denver on Monday afternoon. Boswell and his family welcomed Iowans to the city and told them to "hold on tight" for the long week ahead of them.

"You're going to hear some very inspiring speeches," Boswell said. "I know I am singing to the choir, but this is a very historical moment in the history of our nation."

Saying he's "never felt more hitched to the wagon," and dedicated to getting a lot done, Boswell said national party conventions are an excellent reminder of why he continues to stay in politics, working for progress on behalf of Iowans.

"After we hear all of these speeches out here this week, we've got to go back home and really make it happen," he said.

Boswell said that seeing Barack Obama elected president would be another event he'd add to the list of things that convince him America is a place where big ideas can be become reality.

"For my family and I, to have spent our lives in the United States of America is a privilege," he said.

Acknowledging that he continues to get a lot of questions about his health since a recent hospital stay, the sixth-term 74-year-old congressman assured those in attendance that he is "feeling just fine."

Before returning to their pork chops, members of the delegation were treated to an original song written and performed by Boswell's wife Dody, who told the crowd she's had more time to work on her poetry since retiring. The delegates were also entertained by a mariachi band, pictured at the top of this post.

-- By Matt Clark

Labels: DNC2008