MAP: Northern California Big Sur
Our Baby Moon in Big Sur: Returning to the Place Where It All Began
There are places that hold your memories like a photograph—unchanged, full of feeling, suspended in time. For Robb and me, that place is Big Sur.
Where It All Started: Post Ranch Inn
Early on in our relationship, Robb took me to a magical place called Post Ranch Inn, tucked high in the Redwood Forest overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It was our first trip together as a couple, and the moment we arrived, I knew this place was different. It was peaceful, almost sacred. Perched in eco-friendly, sustainable treehouses, you feel like you’re floating in nature, completely immersed in stillness and beauty.
We walked among the redwoods, shared quiet meals, played games, and just *were*. It’s the kind of place that roots into your soul.
Our Tradition: A Baby Moon for Every Pregnancy
Since that first trip, we’ve made it a tradition to return to Big Sur every year. And with each pregnancy, we’ve gone back for a baby moon. Though we’ve stayed in a mix of properties around Big Sur and Carmel, Post Ranch Inn has always held a special place in our hearts. But we hadn’t been back there—until this baby moon, our third.
A Christmas Surprise
On Christmas morning, Robb handed me a gift I wasn’t expecting—a surprise trip back to Post Ranch Inn. He had mapped out a weekend getaway for the two of us, a time to reconnect and soak in the beauty of the place where our love story began.
It was one of the most thoughtful gifts he’s ever given me.
Slowing Down to Take It In
The first day or two, we were both still plugged in—catching up on work, wrapping up loose ends. It wasn’t easy to disconnect. But once we did, everything shifted.
We walked hand in hand through the redwoods. We sat on the edge of the world and watched the sun disappear into the sea. We laughed, played Scrabble, snuck cookies from the snack bar, and even recreated some of our old photos from our very first trip, back when we were just a couple—before the babies, the bedtime routines, the beautiful chaos.
Birds of prey
It was a remarkable experience learning about birds of prey. I felt really called to do the Falconry Experience at Post Ranch Inn. We didn’t know what to expect maybe a falcon would fly towards us catching on a large glove like you see on the photos. But it was SO much more. We got up close & personal with some amazing amazings our favorites were the baby owl and the great horned owl. We really enjoyed the company of other couples in the experience. We got some amazing photos & videos of the birds as well. A memory that will forever stay with us! Hawk, Falcon, Owls, oh myyyyyy!
Cruising the One and Chasing Sunsets
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was hopping into a convertible and driving down the legendary Highway One. We stopped at Nepenthe, a restaurant we’ve always loved, and grabbed drinks while soaking in the breathtaking view from their patio.
Then we continued down to one of my favorite places in the world: Esalen.
Mineral Baths at Esalen
Robb calls it my “woo-woo” place—and it totally is. Esalen is spiritual, raw, and reflective. We didn’t stay there this time, but we went to enjoy the mineral baths, carved right into the side of a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s magic.
That night, as the sun dipped below the horizon, we sat side by side in those warm healing waters, breathing, dreaming, remembering. I even met another mama in the baths, also planning a home birth. The connection, the serendipity, was beautiful.
That Sunset Drive
On our drive back up the coast, the sunset wrapped the cliffs in gold and fire. I filmed Robb driving with the top down, wind in our hair, music playing. It felt like a scene from a movie, and I never wanted it to end.
Looking Ahead
Big Sur will always be our place. It’s where we fell deeper in love, where we’ve celebrated new beginnings, and where we go to return to each other.
One day, I hope we’ll bring all of our children here and watch them fall in love with the land the way we have. Until then, I’ll hold on to this baby moon as one of the sweetest, most peaceful chapters before welcoming our third baby into the world.
