We check into our room at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

We cannot believe we have an ocean front room

We can see the ocean, not only out the doors, but also on the big plasma TV

Our bathroom

The view from our balcony is amazing

Valerie joins me on the balcony

This is an awesome way to spend her birthday!

I do not see her complaining, that is for sure

Valerie on the balcony

Valerie eagerly shows me the gym which has been renovated since the last time I visited the hotel

Why is there a LCD screen on each workout station when there is a panoramic view of Salt Creek Beach Park from the two-story windows?

Every station enjoys the view

The entrance to the hotel's spa is across the hall from the gym

Restaurant 162'...site of today's buffet

Valerie and I have been looking forward to trying their brunch buffet for a couple of years

We enjoy live music while waiting to be seated

I scope out the buffet's offerings while waiting

There are plenty of muffins and breakfast pastries

Since I can't decide whether I want breakfast or lunch, I'll go straight for the desserts

Actually, I think I'll start with the sushi!

Is it wise to put the cheese near the fire?

We have an ocean-view table, one hundred and sixty-two feet above sea level

First round