First Report - 26th Anniversary Trip

After a much later start than we anticipated we finally left Conroe for our first destination, The Ritz Carlton - Maison Orleans. Upon arrival our car was quickly unloaded by the bell man and we were promptly escorted to the main lobby check-in. There a private escort was called and we were identified as the Rev. and Mrs. Our escort asked if we were ready to go to the Maison Club. We were tired and affirmed we were ready. He explained the Maison was a private access hotel. On the elevator he asked if I liked the sites of the Ritz. Of course I did. It was elaborate with fresh flowers and scents of Gardenia candles burning. He smiled and explained the Maison was a much nicer hotel and I was in for a wonderful treat.

Amazing is what I thought as we entered our hotel! The parlor is filled with beverages and delectable food arrays throughout the day. Vibrant red roses and white lilies fill the crystal vases. Every room is scented with candles burning. As we entered our lavish suite I noticed a card with our name wishing us a Happy Anniversary! Nearby was a tray of fresh berries and fruit dip adorned with an orchid.

Allow me to copy from the website the room description:

· Double teaster (demi-canopied) bed with Egyptian cotton linens
· Bathrooms with soaking tubs and separate showers
· Luxurious European bath amenities
· Floor-to-ceiling windows
· Additional sitting area
· Louis XVI-style desk, quilted leather stool, drop-leaf table, and wing chair
· Fireplace with antique summer coverings
· High speed Internet access
· Computer and fax hook-ups through the service of your personal butler
· Complimentary CD/DVD library and surround sound in bedrooms and bathroom
· Venetian-style beverage armoire with customized food and beverage selections available upon request
· Private key access
· European continental breakfast and light refreshments throughout the day
· 24-hour Butler and room service
· Personalized concierge service

We soon strolled to the heart of the French Quarters for seafood platters of red fish, crawfish, oysters, and shrimp. After dinner we shared a small order of beignets and enjoyed sipping on café au lait from Café du Monde . Our room was stunning when we returned. Rose petals were scattered on the floor. Not only did we enjoy turn down service but beautiful fresh pink rose petals formed a heart on our bed. A beautiful long stem yellow rose was lying across the pillows. On a beautiful mahogany pedestal drop leaf table was chilled strawberry lemonade and a platter of chocolate covered strawberries and an assortment of home-style cookies. There were beautiful Waterford goblets for the lemonade. The bathroom was dimly lit with candles and a martini glass filled with gardenia scented bath salts.

This morning our day started with breakfast in the parlor which consisted of beautiful fruit arrays, cheese, various breads and pastries, breakfast canapés, yogurt, granola, an assortment of jams and jellies, and various breakfast beverages. We spent most of the day enjoying the French Quarter. This evening we will enjoy a dinner cruise on the Natchez Steamboat. The entertainment will be a jazz band and a spectacular fireworks show. Tomorrow we are going to enjoy an airboat swamp tour. After the swamp tour we will make our way towards the Alabama Gulf Coast. I plan to post pictures later tonight or tomorrow from our stay in New Orleans.

Kent and I are grateful for the sweet people from CUPC who gave us this incredible anniversary gift. I realize many of them have never enjoyed such a stay as we are enjoying. We truly are humbled by their kindness. While we have enjoyed the 4th of July many of them have worked at the Fireworks Warehouse to raise funds for The Spot, a new youth centre’.

Stay tuned for another report of our relaxing time away from home!