Big Sur, California. A place of natural beauty. A sanctuary. Driving California One for 3 hours was everything but unpleasant. It was a sport trying to snap pictures of every gorgeous piece of land along the winding road. The Pacific looked different there. It was crystal blue. Colors in dark and light variations making patterns along the horizon. Beds of seaweed spotted the water. We got to our cabin, dumped our luggage, and set out on what was to be a short hike. There was a detour. It was probably about a 4 mile hike. I heard my heart pounding the entire time. By the end, I was dead and sweaty. My first night there, I ate dinner on top of the world. I watched the sunset through a glass of wine. The fresh air was almost too much to handle. The cabin was equipped with a fireplace for entertainment. No Television. I sat on the deck of our cabin and watched the stars slowly appear. It was amazing. Then I sat on the couch inside the cabin which faced none other than the fireplace. I got lost in the dancing flames for a few hours until I drifted off to sleep, then awoke, took a quick shower, and climbed into my bed. The next day we drove around and came across some state park that had a few short little hikes. We followed a trail to this incredible view. It was a waterfall which fell into the pacific. It was truly a breath taking view. Later that night, I impatiently watched kids swim in the pool from my deck-- waiting for them to leave. It was about 8:45pm until they finally left... and it was finally dark enough. I got into my bathing suit and climbed over the deck's guard railing and jumped onto the grass. Then I ran quickly, for it was cold, to the gate. I unlatched it and threw down my towel. I swam a couple laps. Then I floated on my back and gazed at the stars. I could see my breath. It was very magical. I was sad to leave, but I was relieved to get home. Home is where the heart is.