These are my personal top non-DVC picks from II, not in any particular order:
Sheraton Vistana Villages is pretty at night, w/waterfalls and nice lighting - just seems romantic.
Marriott Cypress Harbour's grounds and buildings remind me of Disney's OKW, but with a lake/boats and without a pool slide. Tons for all ages to do there.
Marriott Grand Vista is lovely, especially for golfers, nice for families too. The golf course has an onsite restaurant.
Horizons by Marriott offers a lot for families with younger kids, especially at the pirate-themed pool area - but no jacuzzi in the room.
The rooms at these are all very, very nice and they are all located well for visiting Sea World (especially), as well as WDW and Universal parks, other area attractions and restaurants. They also all have pretty nice pools w/poolside bar/grill and other amenities.
ETA: Too funny, Debbie! Guess we think alike about this too!