Walking past the goat pen and the chicken coop on the way in, we knew our vacation had started. I mean, the trees and the crisp fresh air that surrounded us as we arrived gave us a good hint, but walking through this rustic scene solidified it.

I wish I could recreate the sound of the chickens as I walked past, as they were adorable. We knew we were some place special.

The Mushroom Dome Cabin is a treat to behold for us stuck in the city. The tiny kitchen, the cute bathroom, the loft looking out onto the trees. We couldn't have been happier. Kitty and Michael keep the cabin well stocked for all your needs, in the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. And if you've been feeling a little low on your hummingbird quota, they are well stocked in that, as well. Walking up to the hummingbird garden your first instinct is to duck, as they come swooping around you like the blue angels. Fast, loud, and incredibly agile, these little guys lit up our faces. I have always been a fan of hummingbirds when I would see them on rare occasions, but to experience the amount of hummingbirds that inhabit the garden is truly amazing. One of the best parts of our stay at the cabin. Besides feeding the goats and chickens, seeing the mist flow through the woods, talking with Kitty about her family and livestock, grilling and relaxing on the spacious porch, taking a shower in the cute tiled bathroom, watching Becky, the hardest working dog we've ever seen, and the list goes on...

Of course, just staying in a cute little cabin, as exciting as that was, would be nothing without a surrounding that complimented it. The Aptos hills covered with lush foliage, beautiful redwoods, and dominating oaks, were just what we needed. Down, just a short hop away from the Cabin, were several tiny trails that took us through the woods. And if those aren't enough, the Nisene Marks park, just minutes away, sports some great trails too...taking you past ancient redwoods and wonderful water ways and yet even more paths to get lost on.

I can't imagine a better way to spend a week away from home than to have Kitty and Michael let us into their world. And just outside of their world is the Aptos Village...a cute little place where you can find a great diner, a wonderful organic hotdog at a hotdog truck, or all the groceries you might need to make your stay that much better.

Thank you Kitty and Michael for everything.