Friday Stories and Experiences 12.22.23

Welcome to the NFN8|BLUE’s(Infinite Blue 😊) Friday Travel Stories and Experiences. Fridays will be all about different experiences and funny stories. I will still be as funny as I can. Let’s get the weekend started and Happy Holidays!

_{San Diego After Lunch}

✈️After indulging in a delightful light lunch at one of the varied restaurants scattered across La Jolla, Bird Rock, PB, or Mission Beach, our next adventure invariably leads us to Point Loma – an unrivaled gem nestled within San Diego's offerings. This locale holds an unwavering place as my ultimate favorite in the city, a sanctuary I hold dear.

✈️Our family outings often gravitate towards the Point Loma Lighthouse, a perennial favorite of our children. The vantage point offers awe-inspiring vistas extending over the North Island Naval Air Station and the scenic Hotel Del Coronado. With the bay on one side and the vast Pacific Ocean on the other, the panoramas stretch as far as Mexico on clear, crisp days. The historical richness of the site blends seamlessly with the kids' uninhibited energy, making it a perennially cherished stop. And if luck smiles upon us, witnessing the thunderous departure of F-18s from North Island adds an exhilarating touch to the experience.

🍹Yet, the pinnacle of this escapade beckons from my cherished haunt – the Bali Hai. This Polynesian eatery on Shelter Island, overlooking the waters, holds a special place in my heart for over two decades. Its two-tiered structure, adorned with a bar and restaurant, gazes upon the downtown skyline across the bay. The Bali Hai's significance in my life traces back to my earliest memories, even marking the ground for my first date with my beloved wife. The allure? Their signature Mai Tai cocktails, infamous for their potency and for igniting memorable nights. We relish sipping these delights and savoring appetizers before heading downstairs to bask in the warmth of the firepit, a serene spot that's a hidden gem to tourists but a treasure trove for locals.

😎For a day brimming with sightseeing, historical ventures, and a dash of cocktails, this easygoing and reasonably-priced itinerary promises an unforgettable San Diego experience.

_{Wreaths Across America}

❤️‍🩹On December 16, 2023, we marked the annual Wreaths Across America day, a poignant yet gratifying experience. With a touch of solemnity and a sprinkle of hope, we ventured to the Cave Creek Memorial Cemetery, an expedition that resonated deeply with our family.

❤️‍🩹Amidst the serene setting, we partook in a modest ceremony, paying homage to the fallen soldiers of WWI. Placing a wreath at the headstone of a courageous soldier became a lesson, a solemn teaching moment for our children about the sacrifices made for the priceless gift of freedom.

❤️‍🩹Anticipation brews within me for the forthcoming years. While this year's experience was heartfelt, I eagerly await the grandeur of attending the National Cemetery's Wreath Laying, in harmony with Arlington's poignant event. The prospect of participating and volunteering in such soul-stirring remembrance ceremonies fills me with a sense of purpose and pride.

❤️‍🩹I urge you to explore and engage in these ceremonies within your local community. The impact of honoring our heroes resonates deeply, not just within our hearts but also in the minds of our children. Witnessing their excitement for the upcoming years, as they eagerly anticipate getting more involved in this meaningful tradition, fills me with immense joy.

❤️‍🩹As we remember, honor, and teach the valor and sacrifice of those who secured our liberty, let us continue to instill these invaluable lessons in the next generation. In this endeavor, we find solace and unity, weaving a tapestry of remembrance that transcends time.

Catch you next week,

 Jamie