Now that I've finally attended the annual convention of the National Real Estate Investors Association (NaREIA), I'm thrilled to say that not only is this a well run organization, the content and benefits that accrue from membership are awesome!  

For a full week, from Feb 7-14, we were exposed to some of the best speakers in the country, and we had a chance to mix an mingle with like minded peers, while we ate and/or drank ourselves silly.   Fortunately for me, I spent a lot more time in the bow on the 11th deck in the gym than I did at any bar or restaurant, but the food was outstanding and hard to limit myself.   I was committed, however, to NOT put on any weight and I am glad to have realized that goal.  It was, however, difficult.  The Carnival Liberty has some excellent cuisine available and I will admit that I did not miss and meals.  Food everywhere, all day long, so it was hard to believe there is any recession going on, at all.  

In fact, the whole week was a festive one and I highly recommend it for any Real Estate Investors who would enjoy a chance to get away in the dead of winter.  

Next year, the venue will be St. Maarten, St. Croix, and some other Saint ... Lucia?   It doesn't matter.  Wherever it is, it will be a LOT warmer than Iowa at that time of year, and unless I'm dead, I'm going. 

Viva la National REIA Annual Cruise!