Life Journey – Page 3 – I and Thou Reflections

Sweet Dreams in Fort Bragg, CA

A Series on It’s All in The Reflection

Welcome back, wanderer!

Now that you’ve soaked in the sea glass and serenity, let’s find a place to rest your soul. And your suitcase.

Soulful Stays

Beachcomber Motel

If you’re craving ocean views and a roof deck where you can sip coffee while watching the waves roll in, The Beachcomber Motel is your spot. It’s casual, cozy, and just steps from the beach. And you can’t beat the complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. So, go ahead and post those pics you have been taking all day.

It’s Good for Your Soul.

North Cliff Hotel

Gas fireplaces, ocean-view balconies, and luxe suites? Yes, please!

The North Cliff Hotel is perfect for couples looking to rekindle that spark. Ooh, La-La. It’s polished, peaceful, and practically made for long talks and slow mornings.

Emerald Dolphin Inn

You want mini-golf and a pillow?

Emerald Dolphin Inn is a roadside gem ideal for families who want extra eye-candy for their kids. Mini-golf and a video arcade make this place ideal for an overnight stay.

Time To Unwind

Wherever you decide to stay, your soul will find rest. Serenity will lead you where you’re meant to be.

To drift off to sleep.
To imagine the world as a better place.
And to see yourself.

Because tranquility isn’t always found on the outside. It’s found within.

It’s All in The Reflection

Next are questions to ask yourself before leaving Fort Bragg — the kind that rise to the surface when the glass is half full and the heart is wide open.

I’d love to hear about your stay in Fort Bragg.
Don’t forget to press the “thumbs up” button.

#FortBragg #CaliforniaTrip #WineandFaith #SelfReflection #IandThouReflections

Local Gems in Fort Bragg, CA

A Series on It’s All in The Reflection

Off The Beaten Path

Fort Bragg isn’t just about sea glass and mini-golf. It’s also about the picture-perfect spots. Places where you can feel nature speaking. The local secrets that whisper to your soul.

Pudding Creek Trestle

Want to find the perfect backdrop for a photo?

Don’t miss Pudding Creek Trestle. It’s a historic wooden bridge with panoramic views of the Pacific. Ideal for anyone who appreciates old things that have endured the test of time.

Sip Wine Bar

Tucked into East Laurel Street, the Sip Wine Bar is a cozy spot offering a curated selection of local wines with a relaxed, coastal vibe. If you happen to be there on Memorial Day weekend, ask for the red, white, and blue mimosa flight.

Direction Matters

Love, like wine, needs breathing room — and a little aging to reach its full flavor.

Go ahead. Wander off course.
Taste something unexpected.
Relationships, like road trips, need a change of scenery, a compass, and ways to navigate through unforeseen circumstances.

Let the unexpected reset your compass.

Pour A Glass – Will Ya?

Try a glass of Mendocino Pinot Noir — earthy, elegant, yet quietly complex.

Just like the best relationships. Right?

Reset and Refresh

Sometimes the best way to move forward is to sit still, sip slowly, and listen to the vineyards.

What does that mean?

Ask less.
Listen more.
Let the stillness answer for you.

Like sea glass on the shore, relationships weather storms, tumble through time, and are dragged through the mud. And if given the right amount of space, they can flourish when the sun comes out.

Ready to rest?

Next time, we’ll figure out options to sleep the night away.

Because what matters isn’t just what you see around you —

It’s All in The Reflection

See you next time!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Fort Bragg.
Where is your favorite place off the beaten path?

Don’t forget to press the “thumbs up” button.

#Fort Bragg #MendocinoCoast #CaliforniaTrip #WineandFaith #SelfReflection #IandThouReflections

Cool Places in Fort Bragg, CA

A Series on It’s All in The Reflection

Fort Bragg: Here We Come!

Ready for a reset?

*Image Source: Bing Map with Image Overlay Wine Glass Image Credit: Alex Levich*, *Graphic Designer*

Rugged coastline meets sparkly sea glass in Fort Bragg, CA.

The salty breeze will refresh the most harried spirit.

This tucked-away gem on California’s Mendocino Coast is a must for your Bucket List.

It delivers charm,
a bit of nature,
and just enough quirkiness for the flower-child within.

Cool Places To Go

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

Wander through clifftop trails lined with rhododendrons at this ever-blooming botanical garden. The scenery at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is like walking through a watercolor painting with every step. Try to catch a sunset, too.

Glass Beach

Feast your eyes on glass pebbles at Glass Beach, where it feels like you are walking on polished sea glass. Even the most brokenhearted will appreciate the beauty of this place. It’s extraordinary.

Sea Glass Museum

Less than a mile down the road, stop at the Sea Glass Museum, where you can learn more about sea glass. Did you know that Fort Bragg, CA, has the world’s highest concentration of sea glass?

MacKerricher State Park

Ready to enjoy nature?

MacKerricher State Park is a great place to rest and breathe!

Practice with me:

Inhale wild serenity,
Exhale the wild worries of the day.
Sure, you can hike and sunbathe, too.

Whatever you decide to do,
Beauty will take you where you want to be.

Remember, it isn’t always on the outside.
Sometimes it’s right in front of you.

Because the beauty isn’t just in what you see.

It’s All in The Reflection

Next time, we’ll explore where the locals go in Fort Bragg. See you there!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Fort Bragg.
What is your favorite cool thing to do there?

Don’t forget to press the “thumbs up” button.

#FortBragg #CaliforniaTrip #WineandFaith #SelfReflection #IandThouReflections

Local Gems in Napa, CA

A Series It’s All in The Reflection

Off The Beaten Path

Napa isn’t just about wine and expensive resorts. It’s also the quiet spots. The local secrets that can speak to your soul.

China Point Overlook

*Photo Credit: Bruce K., Charlotte, NC – Yelp website*

Tucked off Soscol Avenue, this riverside spot isn’t marked with fanfare. Locals know it as a place to breathe, sit still, and watch reflections drift by — both literal and emotional. Bring a sketchbook and hop on the brick wall beside the lamp post. Let your fingers see what your eyes do.

Jarvis Estate Winery

This is not your everyday winery. Here, wine ages in candlelit chambers of a mountain cave. As you hear the water gently trickling, you imagine the transformation of grapes into wine. A sacred metaphor for healing that’s slow, unseen, and worth the wait.

Direction Matters

Love, like wine, needs breathing room — and a little aging to reach its full flavor.

Go ahead. Wander off course.
Taste something unexpected.

Let the quiet places reset your compass.

Pour A Glass – Will Ya?

Try the Trefethen Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. It is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. It’s structured, balanced, and has a hint of blackberry and blueberry notes.

Just like the best conversations.

Reset & Refresh

Sometimes the best way to move forward is to sit still, sip slowly, and let the vineyard do the talking.

What does that mean?

Ask less.
Listen more.
Let the stillness answer for you.

Ready to rest?

Next time, we’ll find a place to rest your weary soul.

Because what matters isn’t just what you see around you —

It’s All in The Reflection

See you next time!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Napa.
Where is your favorite place that is off the beaten path?

Don’t forget to press the “thumbs up” button.

#Napa #NapaValley #CaliforniaTrip #WineandFaith #SelfReflection #IandThouReflections

Cool Places in Napa, CA

A Series on It’s All in The Reflection

Napa: Here We Come!

Ready to explore?

Lush vineyards meet castles in Napa Valley.

Here you can savor each sip of wine.

Slowly.

Deeply.

Like a sacred pause to calm the most chaotic spirit.

Cool Places To Go

Castello di Amorosa

What better place to calm the soul than a castle tour at Castello di Amorosa? Its 13th-century Tuscan-style will delight the most sophisticated architect. And maybe even you!

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

Check out Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Take a hike. Or take a nap in a yurt in Napa and treat yourself to nature therapy. It will be an incredible experience you won’t soon forget. Pack the bug spray!

Domaine Carneros Winery

A grand staircase leads you to the Domaine Carneros Winery and Vineyards. This French-inspired chateau serves the most amazing views on a silver platter.
A perfect setting.
To pause.
To sip.
To linger.
To stroll through the gardens.
A sight to behold.

Main Street Dock

When it’s time for a workout or a change of scenery, the Riverfront on Main Street must be on your to-do list. Whether in a kayak or watching others paddle, it’s a great place to gain a new perspective. To glide. To consider the push and pull of life. To feel how movement can be multi-directional. Both gentle and intentional. To find the balance within.

Whether you stay for a short while or linger all day, these places will create space.
Space to pause.
To breathe.
And to see what’s been rippling beneath the surface.

Because the beauty isn’t just in what you see.

It’s All in The Reflection

Next time, we’ll go off the beaten path to discover something new and exciting.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Napa.
Where is your favorite place?

Don’t forget to press the “thumbs up” button.

#Napa #NapaValley #CaliforniaTrip #WineandFaith #SelfReflection #IandThouReflections

California, Here We Come!

A Series on It’s All in The Reflection

Introduction

In this series, you will find inspirational places to reflect and consider the beauty of nature.

To contemplate life.
To figure out which direction to take.
To create space to breathe.
To hope.
To find yourself.

While we’re there, discover all the cool places to check out. We’ll look at activities, places to stay, and the perfect wine for each location.

We’ll explore directions to take, how to reset and refresh, and the quiet questions that shape us along the way. Our minds and souls will begin to answer:
What direction is your life leading?
Where do you need to reset?
Maybe you are all ready to shine.

Because, in the end, it’s not about the wine. Or, is it?

It’s All in The Reflection

Next time:

Napa will be our first stop.

So pull up a chair. Pour a beverage. Something bold or bubbly. Your choice. We’ll meet in Napa.

See you there!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on traveling to California.
Where is your favorite place?

Don’t forget to press the “thumbs up” button.

#CaliforniaTrip #WineandFaith #SelfReflection #IandThouReflections

Women’s History Month – Part 20: Concluding Remarks

The Legacy of Obscure Women in the Bible

As we say goodbye to March, we close out Women’s History Month by reflecting on the lessons learned from each of these obscure women in the Bible. We honor their lives by seeking to be a little more like them. May we all leave a legacy that inspires faith, courage, and transformation.

The Woman at the Well

The Samaritan Woman, also known as the Woman at the Well, reminds us that living water is free to all who receive it. This remarkable lady leaves a legacy of truth and transformation. Her story provides hope. Hope that God will meet us in our brokenness and offer us eternal life.

Taitha

Tabitha (Dorcas) reminds us that faith is integral to life. Her livelihood as a seamstress enabled her to clothe and care for those less fortunate. This miracle-healed lady leaves behind a legacy of compassion and revival.

Hannah

Hannah endured anguish on many levels. Yet, she prayed at the Temple and made a promise to God. If given a son, Hannah would dedicate him to the Lord. And she did. Her son left his mark on a whole country and changed the course of history. This prayer warrior of a lady leaves a legacy of faithfulness and integrity.

Lydia

Lydia was The Book of Acts version of Martha Stewart. Her open heart and home became a foundation for the early church, proving that faith and vocation can work hand in hand. This lovely lady’s legacy of hospitality and leadership inspires us all to lead with our hearts and minds.

The Midwives

Shiphrah and Puluh, the courageous midwives, stand as models of resistance against injustice. By defying Pharaoh’s decree, they essentially preserved the future of Israel, teaching us that small acts of bravery can have lasting consequences. Their legacy of courage encourages us all to speak out for those who can’t speak for themselves.

Food for Thought

Each of these women, though often overlooked, shaped history in their own way. Their stories inspire us to live with

purpose,
faith,
and courage,
knowing that God can use even the most obscure people to accomplish His divine plan.

Thanks be to God.

#March #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenintheBible #ObscureWomen #WomeninHistory #Tabitha #Hannah #Lydia #Shiphrah #WomanattheWell #Legacy

Women’s History Month – Part 19: The Legacy of the Midwives

As we read last time, the Shiphrah and Puah story is a powerful example of standing up for what is right, even in the face of immense danger. The impact of their bravery extended beyond their immediate actions. By letting the Hebrew babies live, these two women sparked hope among their people.

The Legacy of Courage

Families were able to keep their sons, and the strength of the Hebrew community began to flourish. Yet, they were still oppressed. We can imagine the villagers whispering praises of the midwives as heroes.

The midwives stressed the importance of choosing God.

Not the king.

Their faith in God gave them the strength to defy Pharaoh. They trusted that God would protect and guide them. They knew in their hearts that the right course of action was to allow the baby boys to live. In so doing, they encouraged other women to look beyond their immediate circumstances.

Their legacy reminds us that every small act of courage contributes to a larger movement. Whether it be for justice, freedom, or life itself. It makes us think about our challenges and how we can respond to them. Let us stand firm for what is right. And let us respond with integrity and fearlessness.

*Image Source: http://www.photos-public-domain dot com*

May this story remind us to listen when God tugs on our hearts.

Next time, we will draw a few conclusions on the obscure women in the Bible as we finish up this series as we head into Stress Awareness Month.

#March #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenintheBible #ObscureWomen #WomeninHistory #Tabitha #Hannah #Lydia #Shiphrah #WomanattheWell #Legacy

March – Women’s History Month: Part 18: Shiphrah and Puah

As we conclude our March – Women’s History Month series focusing on women in the Bible, we now turn to Shiphrah and Puah.

The king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah, “When you are helping the Hebrew women during childbirth on the delivery stool, if you see that the baby is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live.” The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live.
Exodus 1:15-17

Courageous Women

These courageous women defied Pharaoh’s order to kill Hebrew newborn boys.

Why?

Because they feared God.

Image Source: Catholicnewsherald *dot com*

The Fear of the Lord

Why is fear so important?

From Open the Bible, Pastor Colin Smith answers this best. He says, “The fear of God arises out of our knowledge of the grace, mercy, love, forgiveness that leads the person who receives it to fear the Lord.”

In other words, to fear God is to love God, and to love God is to fear Him.

Moral Integrity

The courage put into action by the midwives saved many lives. And their moral integrity was beyond reproach. When Pharaoh ordered them to kill all Hebrew male infants, they defied him. The women chose to preserve life instead. Their fear of God and their moral conviction led to the survival of many children. One special child was Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt.

Reflective Question

How can we stand up for justice and righteousness?

Next time, we will look at their legacy.

See you then.

#March #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenintheBible #ObscureWomen #WomeninHistory #Tabitha #Hannah #Lydia #Shiphrah #WomanattheWell #Legacy

Women’s History Month – Part 17: Lydia’s Legacy

A Legacy of Hospitality

Lydia’s home was more than just a gathering place.
It was a sanctuary.
A refuge.
A space where believers could grow in faith and find strength in community.

Her hospitality went far beyond the typical bed and breakfast. She created an environment where faith could flourish.

Lydia’s story inspires us to share our faith. We need to share it in the best way we know how. Whether it is through selling purple cloth or opening our homes for fellowship, let us share the good news with those near and far.

A Legacy of Leadership

A good leader is hard to find. They seem to hide in the strangest places. Yet, we do know that God blesses each of us with certain skills and abilities. The hard part is trying to figure out what they are.

Lydia knew what her skills were and how to use them. She had a knack for welcoming people and making them feel comfortable. She also provided words of wisdom to grow the faith community. Lydia had good business sense. There is no doubt about it.

Like all great leaders, Lydia didn’t lead from a distance. She was deeply involved in her community.

She listened.
She acted.
She believed.
She led.

And she spread the gospel.
Near and far.

While history may not always highlight them, women like Lydia played a critical role in shaping Christianity.

Lydia’s story serves as a reminder that faith is more than a journey. It is a long-lasting legacy.

How are we using our influence? Our resources? Our gifts?

Lydia’s story reminds us to say yes.

Yes, to baptism.
Yes, to hospitality.
Yes, to fellowship.
Yes, to share your faith.

Why?

Because faith is more than a journey. It is a legacy. A lasting one.

Next time, we will look at Shiphrah and find out how this obscure woman in The Bible saved an entire nation.

#March #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenintheBible #ObscureWomen #WomeninHistory #Tabitha #Hannah #Lydia #Shiphrah #WomanattheWell #Legacy