Packed up and moved over to the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes just a few miles away, to participate in a national conference of Women Legislators. We were introduced during the initial Leadership meeting (which included a brief presentation by Governor Charlie Crist), then checked into the hotel, which was a challenge. The first room they gave us was (would you believe!) right next to the elevator, which I told them was unacceptable. The only other room they claimed to have had double beds instead of a king. Hubby went to look at them, and somehow (I still don't know how!) managed to finagle a suite at no extra charge. It was beautiful! Two large rooms, both had balconies overlooking the pool and the golf course, extremely comfortable furniture, lots of space, a huge bathroom with a glass enclosed shower, a separate bathtub (though not a jacuzzi), an enclosed toilet area and double sinks. Really spectacular, exactly what you'd expect from a Ritz suite! It pays to have a husband that looks professorial and has that enticing English accent! Once we were settled in, we worked with the planners on arranging a room where we could offer one-on-one coaching sessions, and they found one right along the main corridor, guaranteeing we would be able to attract some folks in. Attended a welcome reception on the patio, met a few interesting people, then headed up to the comfy room for a relaxed evening and an early morning.
