Sen. John McCain will spend this weekend getting ready for the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis set to begin on September 1. He recently did an extensive interview, which is posted in an article on the ABC News website. Here is some of what it has to say about McCain's preparation for the convention:

This weekend, as Democrats await news of Obama's choice of vice president, McCain said he'll spend time at his retreat in Sedona, Ariz., so he can rehearse his acceptance speech, prepare for the unveiling of his own running mate and put the finishing touches on a four-day convention that will highlight service, reform, prosperity and peace. "Country first -- put my country first," McCain said when asked to describe the event's theme.

McCain, occasionally looking out the plane's window as he spoke, admitted he's getting advice from "everybody" about his remarks, especially from his family. He said he hasn't reviewed previous convention speeches, but praised Ronald Reagan's 1980 address attacking President Carter and Reagan's 1984 speech on conservatism.

One challenge: McCain's address on Sept. 4 coincides with pro football's season opener.

While he praised Obama's speaking skills in the interview, McCain also pointed out that he delivered three well-received convention addresses, including in 1996 when he entered Bob Dole's name in nomination.

In the 1996 campaign, Dole's age (then 73) was a factor because his opponent, President Clinton, was 23 years younger. McCain, who is about 25 years older than Obama, acknowledges that age "is a consideration that the voters have." But he's confident that he can overcome it. "I was able in the primary to show that I have the necessary experience and talents to lead the country," McCain said. "All is fair in political campaigns, apparently."

If elected, McCain would be the oldest president to take his first oath of office. He flatly ruled out pledging to serve only one term: "I haven't even considered such a thing."