We are going back to our roots!

Well, actually, neither of were raised in Big Sur. But, we are both native, northern Californians. As much as we love our expat lives in New Orleans, we both have moments in which we long for the unparalleled beauty of coastal California.

We love the cultural, decadent, kaleidoscopic beauty of the city we call home. For us, a vacation is something, quiet, serene and meditative. Some of our most cherished memories are the times we have spent in naturally beautiful places like Maine, Washington State and Colorado. We are hoping to continue in that spirit with our much anticipated trip to Big Sur.

We are staying in a log cabin with a wood-burning stove, in the middle of a redwood forest, in some of the oldest lodging in Big Sur, at <a href="http://www.deetjens.com/">Deetjen's Big Sur Inn.</a>

We will also commune with nature at <a href="http://pt-lobos.parks.state.ca.us/">Point Lobos</a>, the <a href="http://www.pointsur.org/">Point Sur Lighthouse</a> and the <a href="http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=578">JP Burns State Park</a>.

Being reading types, we are excited about spending time at the <a href="http://www.henrymiller.org/">Henry Miller Library</a>.

For some cultural history/oddity, we will tour the <a href="http://www.hearstcastle.org/">Hearst Castle</a> in San Simeon.

There is a weekly open mic at <a href="http://www.themaidenpub.com/">Maiden Publick House</a>, and Luke's going to throw down (music and pints).

As a souvenir we want to take home a couple's portrait from <a href="http://www.sofanya.com/">Sofanya's Gallery</a>. (You have to see this!)

We so look forward to pampering our bodies and enhancing our spirits with massage and time in the natural hot springs at the <a href="http://www.esalen.org/">Esalen Institute</a>.

Some of the best dining in California is in Big Sur. Some of the restaurants at which we hope to have a lunch or dinner are; <a href="http://www.nepenthebigsur.com/">Nepenthe</a>, <a href="http://www.postranchinn.com/dining.shtml">Sierra Mar</a>, <a href="http://www.deetjens.com/restaurant.htm">The restaurant at Deetjen's </a>, <a href="http://www.rocky-point.com/">Rocky Point </a>, <a href="http://www.bigsurroadhouse.com/">Big Sur Roadhouse</a>, <a href="http://www.lucialodge.com/mall/c121/s14406/food.htm">Lucia Lodge</a>, <a href="http://www.nepenthebigsur.com/kevah/kevah.html">Cafe Kevah</a>

This is our dream trip; if any portion of this becomes a reality we will be more happy than we can express.

Thanks again!