Writing/Blogs
“Machel’s Ranch,” The Rancho Santa Fe News: Baking prove good for the Soul
Baking Proves good for the Soul
I’m not really one
to rant on something. Originally, I had submitted a different story for my column. What I had sent in was an opinion on “zip code snobbery,” which I’m sure none of you are really concerned about.
Sometimes sleeping on it is exactly what everyone needs to do. After reading it the next morning, I decided if someone wants to feel better about their zip code, what’s so terrible about that? You work hard, you slave, and if where you live makes you feel better about tackling this life, by all means indulge in those feelings. What makes more sense to share is what I recently discovered: I love to bake cakes.
When I went home to my sister’s wedding, I baked a whopping 9 cakes in a two week stretch. I blissfully slaved away mixing and frosting cakes for many hours with a smile just plastered across my face. Yes, I know…I’ve thought about it. I may be having an early mid-life crisis. Mine just happens to be in the form of baking.
Last week I even offered to make the cake for a bridal shower for my in-laws. I think my husband’s family seemed surprised that I had volunteered for this most important task. I have, after all been with them for almost three years. Their daughter-in-law by marriage for one year, and never once I have I offered to bake a cake. I think that seemed rather odd to them. I’ve made salads, or brought side dishes or offered to pick up a pie. But never once have I offered to bake something.
With much delight, they said yes to my request. So imagine me baking a double layer white cake with strawberry rhubarb cheesecake filling. I made the decadent butter cream frosting. You might be wondering if I have ever made this recipe before.
No.
Just whipped it up out of thin air, like I had been doing it most of my life. Of course, I did receive a couple of important tips from my sister. She helped me narrow down my idea of how to make the rhubarb strawberry filling. How is it that I have now only discovered my love for making sugary white frosting, beating eggs and decorating cakes in my late thirties?
That’s part of the mystery in our journey. We must unearth those simple pleasures that add meaning to our daily routine. Baking cakes just make me smile. What brings joy to your day? Do yourself a favor. Try to find something new that lights your soul on fire. You might be surprised at how much a new hobby can turn an ordinary day into something that feels magnificent. Life is more about the small pleasures that are within our reach. The trick is to discover what they are along the way.
Around town
On July 28, I was invited to a fabulous event at Fixtures Living. Live entertainment, incredible fresh organic foods were cooked on state of the art appliances, while guests mingled and admired the enormous warehouse of fixtures for modest to luxury homes. Rancho Santa Fe Realtor Tammy Tidmore was kind enough to include me on this guest list. Except for the drive in rush hour traffic to Miramar road, the evening was lovely. SDAR partnered with other professional realtors in the San Diego area to bring this event together. Featured here is Tammy Tidmore, with one of the owners of Fixtures Living, Jeffery Sears.
On July 30, Elaine Gallagher celebrated her birthday with many of her good friends at the luxurious turf club at the Del Mar Racetrack. You may know Elaine as one of the prettiest blondes in town, or from the Gallagher & Gallagher real estate team. I spotted Elaine one day in her gorgeous black Bentley in the Ranch, and she looked like a movie star straight out of Hollywood. Featured here with Elaine at her birthday party are Carmen O’Riordan, Shannon Glascione, Audrey Goldshmidt, Kathy Herington, the birthday girl, Christine, Jen, Christine, Lisa Norton and Kelly Baldwin. Thanks Elaine for sharing your special day with me.
On Aug. 1, Rancho Santa Fe resident Dottie McCrink hosted a bridal shower for her granddaughter Molly McCrink. Molly will be getting married this fall in Cabo San Lucas to Walter Beringer. Molly currently resides in Seattle. She flew in for this special occasion. Natalie Shull helped organize the wonderful shower for her cousin. I was thrilled to bake a white cake with strawberry rhubarb cheesecake filling, glazed in butter cream icing. The day was absolutely splendid. After croissant chicken sandwiches, and other finger delights, the guests of Molly’s shower competed to see who could make the best bridal dress out of one role of toilet paper. I have included three fun photos from Dottie McCrink’s wonderful bridal shower for Molly that day. Dottie’s sister, Caroline Fleischman, is featured with Mina McCrink. Featured also are Natalie and Katie Shull, Dottie McCrink, Mary Murphy McCrink and the bride-to-be, Molly McCrink. Dottie and Ed McCrink have been Ranch residents for over 40 years.
Save the date
Helen Woodward is holding its first ever rummage sale, Wags to Riches, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 28. Take advantage of a variety of items from clothing to pet items, new books, to fitness clothing, as well as a variety of tack to benefit their Therapeutic Riding program, which helps enrich the lives of disabled children. They are looking for gently used items, which you can donate every day that week from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. All items for the rummage sale must be dropped off by Aug. 24. If you donate anything for this event you will receive a receipt and donations are tax deductable. For more information, check out www.animalcenter.org.
Featured here are Georgia Pace and Jane Mezzino from the NCL Del Norte Chapter. According to Reness Resko, “This chapter of NCL has been instrumental in organizing in helping with this event. They will also be working the day of the sale.” How marvelous these young girls are donating their time to such a wonderful charity.
For more information on Machel’s Ranch, check out www.coastnewsgroup.com under columns.
Thanks for reading. Machel Penn Shull
Continue reading “Machel’s Ranch,” The Rancho Santa Fe News: Baking prove good for the Soul
ABC’s The Bachelorette, Spoiler Alert- Ali is definitely engaged!~Guess Who!
Ali is Engaged to Roberto!
The best news for the viewers is Ali does choose someone in tonight’s finale. Ali won’t be leaving Bora Bora alone, and Frank will be regretting his decision for a very long time.
AFTR ceremony should prove interesting with all of the leaked information wrong this season. Fans will be waiting with baited breath to see Ali finally ‘happy with her man’.
On a side note, do you remember that episode where Ali tells Chris Harrison regarding the whole Frank debacle on the sand, and Chris seemed surprised by the whole mess? Unless ABC chose to keep the host in the dark, just know that most reality contestants are sequestered and cannot leave the show unless given permission.
It’s obvious that ABC knew in advance about Frank’s ‘would be girlfriend’ and used this as a rating ploy toward the end. Luckily for them, Ali kept handing him the final rose.
Will where Ali live? Will they actually get married? Maybe we shall all find out tonight on the “AFTR” final ceremony.
Continue reading ABC’s The Bachelorette, Spoiler Alert- Ali is definitely engaged!~Guess Who!
Paperback Novels and the institution of Marriage-”Machel’s Ranch,” The Rancho Santa Fe News
I’m a book fanatic. Some people are proud of their iPad. I’m proud of my pile of books sitting in a basket next to my bed. I have a photo on the cover of my phone that reads, “Happiness is a cup of coffee and a good book.” My husband keeps telling me that at some point books will all be online and there will be no need to go to a bookstore. Huh?
My forehead crinkles with a look that is sure to send me in for the latest Botox injection, except then I remember I don’t believe in botulism being anywhere within the confines of my skin. I try to explain to him with my eyebrows arched to avoid the inevitable onslaught of wrinkles the importance of actually feeling the book in your hand. I plead my case. You know the texture, the beautiful cover and all of those wonderful words in-between. There is something to be said regarding the way a book just feels in your hands. I tell him I know I will never experience that by focusing on some small digital screen to read my favorite author’s latest novel. We end the conversation with his words of reassuring facts, “Like it or not, that’s where the future his headed.”
Well. That’s a sure way to exhume my wonderful mood for the weekend. I stare out my bedroom window trying to imagine the future without paper-filled books. Then I wonder, “Could I live in a world without books?” The thought of that makes my stomach churn. There is something to be said about lounging in bed with your favorite book as the world carries on outside without you, which leads me to a must-share novel for summer for you to read.
“Recipes for the Perfect Marriage,” by Morag Prunty (also goes by Kate Kerrigan). The novel is set in New York City and is about 39-year-old food critic Tressa Nolan. You find out that Tressa is recently married and is beginning to wonder, “Who is the man sleeping next to me in my bed?” You find out through the first person narrative that the main character is quickly having second thoughts and wonders what possessed her into this union of marriage? Was it age? Desperation, or could it be that she is actually in love?
The parallel story in the novel is the love story of her grandmother, whose marriage Tressa thinks is perfect. As you read the current love story set in New York and the flashback love story of Tressa’s grandparents, you as the reader will discover what true love is really all about. Through the author’s examples of trials and problems in each relationship, Morag Prunty deftly depicts why marriage is still a wonderful institution in the millennium. With much wit and enthusiasm, Morag tells one of the best love stories I have read in awhile. Now in my top 10 books, it is a must-read for every woman on the planet that still believes in those two lovely words, “I do.”
Maybe marriage and books are becoming a thing from the past. But take it from an old fashioned romantic: Keep reading paperback books and believe in the possibility that technology can’t take the place of everything this life has to offer, including a real body lying next to you in bed.
Around Town
On July 8, I was invited to the Nicole Miller/Mister B Fashion Show held at Mille Fleurs by Denise Hug. How wonderful to receive the invite. The event included a sit-down luncheon, while models wore the latest women’s and men’s apparel in Southern California. The newest jewelry designer to move into Rancho Santa Fe was also there, Martin Katz. I captured two lovely photos that day of Denise Hug with Corky Miser, owner of Corky’s Pest Control. He just happens to good friends with Bertrand Hug, Denise’s husband. Also featured here is Julien Hug with Maggie Bobileff. Julien was one of the male models in the fashion show. Thank you, Denise for the invitation. I wish I could have stayed for the entire event, but paper duties never end.
On July 17, I was thrilled to attend Karian Forsyth’s birthday party with my husband, which was hosted by her husband Tom Forsyth. The valets parked the car, and the cocktail waitress brought the wine and the appetizers to all of the guests sipping wine under the stars. Denise Hug and Bertrand Hug, Jennifer Bell and singer Sacha Boutros were some of the guests on the private guest list.
I wore a baby doll-Goldie Hawn looking dress, which reminded me of that show “Laugh-In” from the 1960s. My husband had bought a pair of beautiful stiletto heels that made me at least 6-feet-two-inches tall that night. Luckily, I didn’t trip that evening like I have been known to do on occasion. Featured here in the photo are two friends of Karian’s from Los Angeles, Johnny and Dawn. They made the special trip just for their good friend Karian. Karian was wearing svelte black velvety dress with a sexy zipper in the back. Tom was a wonderful host and the evening was just splendid. I always love going to their parties!
On July 19, many things happened. First, I interviewed well-known author Doris Lee McCoy regarding her new book, “The Magic of Gross National Happiness.” I have met Doris in person. She truly has the face of an angel. Sweet and sincere, her positivity glows from within. “Did you know happiness can be measured?” This is the opening line on her website. I wanted to get to the bottom of what exactly that means. Doris explained to me that she went to the Himalayas to do extensive research on a small village, Bhutan, to see how exactly it was possible that they could be ranked No. 8 in the world in happiness when the average villager only made less than $1,200 a year. With 76 percent of the village surrounded in trees, Doris thought this factor also contributed to their natural happiness factor. Also, the village itself is concerned more for the well-being of its residents than just what’s in their bank account (if they have bank accounts in Bhutan!). Doris found the “simplicity” to their way of life contributed significantly to their well-being. Featured here is author Doris Lee McCoy with Bhutan Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. If you would like to buy one of her books, visit www.dorisleemccoy.com to find out more about her fascinating discoveries. She will be having a book signing soon in Rancho Santa Fe. Go to her website to find out more details.
Later that afternoon, I attended the Rancho Santa Fe Rotary meeting with Krista Lafferty. Who knew, but the legendary Chubby Checker was the featured speaker for that day? Wow. I was so excited. Mr. Checker was in town to help Irene with her charity event later that evening at the Valenti estate. Everyone was sitting on the edge of their chair as Mr. Checker reminisced about his career. He informed the packed room how his mother had a prophetic dream regarding his music career and how Dick Clark coined “Chubby as Chubby Checker” and that’s how he received his name. After the meeting, I snapped a few photos of this legendary rock star, and he asked me to jump in for one of the pictures. As you can see, I look like a giddy schoolgirl that knew she was in the company of greatness. Thanks so much for the great photo Chubby, Irene and Patrick. I felt so lucky all day.
That evening, one of my best friends Meredith MacDonald came over to watch ABC’s “The Bachelorette.” She had heard that I had been baking, so she asked me to make her a cake for that evening. But of course, anything for my friends. Featured here is Meredith holding the cake from that evening. If you are wondering, it was a butter cream spice cake with a secret ingredient that cuts out many carbs and cholesterol. I will soon be selling these goodies on the weekends at my husband’s Lemon Twist, which is located near the Crosby in Rancho Santa Fe. I will fill you in later on that wonderful new detail developing in my life.
Summer Hat Feature
Deana Carter looks elegant in her Opening Day hat, which she modeled for me for this photograph. I ran into Deana and her husband John at some of the after party festivities in the Ranch. Thanks Deana for letting me feature you for this week summer hat feature.
Read more: Coast News Group – Paperback books and the institution of marriage
My frank thoughts for this week’s column, “Machel’s Ranch.” Rancho Santa Fe News.
I don’t have anything to write this week. It’s a first. I am sitting here staring at a blank page with nothing materializing. That’s rare when that happens. Usually, I’m brimming with ideas, stories that my heart seems it must reveal in my next column. This week? Nothing is coming to me, except just to be honest with my readers.
I was thinking about a few things while I was relaxing on a two-week vacation. Some ideas that seemed rather important to share, or rather lessons I am still learning myself.
I’ve been thinking that there are many signs in this world. I don’t think most us pay attention to the immediate ones, and we miss obvious moments that are ours to create. I’m not talking about road signs. I’m talking about signs from up above that validate our journey, or rather give us direction when we need it.
Another thing I’ve been thinking about is have you ever noticed the more favors you give the more others expect from you in return? What is up with that? I am learning to be more sparing with my favors. I have learned to say “No.” If you can’t be there, just say no and don’t overextend yourself. I’m sure your calendar is already full. Take this advice from someone who usually commits herself with too many stories. Choose sparingly. Don’t become overwhelmed with a schedule when life is really meant to be simplified (do think Forrest Gump here).
Drink tea instead of espresso.
I’ve also been thinking how much I just absolutely love life, and how blessed I am to be here with all of my friends and loved ones. I just have been so grateful lately for what I have instead of hoping for more. Guess what? I find there is less to complain about. We sometimes miss out on great moments because we are busy wanting more. “Be grateful for less and you won’t miss the rest.” I just coined that phrase even if it sounded a bit cliché.
The main thing is, take some time out of your life to watch “Seinfeld.” Yes, that’s right. Or your favorite comedy that just makes you belt out a really deep laugh. I hear that sort of laughter fights off cancer. I hear it heals just about everything. So make sure you take some time to laugh.
Loosen up a bit and stop taking everything so seriously. The world will survive if you do happen to make a mistake. Everything is not resting upon your shoulders. Be at one place at a time. Dare to inspect the beauty in a single blade of grass while you are in a rush to your next appointment.
Stop spending so much time on your cell phone. Learn to be with yourself alone and your idle thoughts in the car instead. Then listen to some amazing music that inspires your mood. We don’t always have to be hooked to our iPhone. Have the courage to be without the latest gadget.
And, I shall end with this: Don’t make yourself too available. Don’t always say yes. Learn to be quiet. Learn to smile. Learn to be nice. Learn to say the words, “I love you more,” and don’t forget to tell your parents they are the greatest in the world. After all, they did give you life. It’s nice to be back under the eucalyptus trees. I missed you, Rancho Santa Fe.
Out of town
(Please note, for the last two weeks I have been gone from Rancho Santa Fe and this Around Town is featured in Spirit Lake, Iowa).
On June 23, My husband, Jackson and I drove to the Amtrak station to catch my 6:45 a.m. train to Los Angeles. The night before, I suddenly wondered if it were actually possible to make the train, the shuttle to LAX and board the plane all on in one day. Then I realized, yes, trains are always on time. So you can just see my expression when another passenger informed me that there had been a homicide on the train tracks only a few hours earlier. What a bad omen, I thought (I’m a little superstitious). I asked him, “You’re kidding right?” I envisioned a crew like the “CSI: Miami: forensic team somewhere down the tracks completing their investigation, while hundreds of travelers were stranded at the train stations. What ended up happening was I took Robin home, then jumped on the freeway, and drove to the airport. Later, it was determined that a man was just hit by a train and the homicide theory was ruled out.
If you are wondering, we did make the plane. An odd sense of relief came over me as I held my son’s hand, while we ascended and disappeared into the white clouds.
On June 24, I woke up at my parents’ house feeling quite pleased to be on vacation. I hadn’t been back to the Midwest during the summer in almost five years. Let me set the record straight on Iowa because I know what you are thinking. You are thinking miles of corn and how boring. Yes, normally that would be right, except where my family lives. Spirit Lake and Lake Okoboji is sort of like the “Aspen of Iowa,” but in reverse. Just like Aspen in the wintertime, Spirit Lake has more than 250,000 tourists a year visit its breathtaking natural lakes during the summer. After being a native Californian (Ha!) for 21 years, I still am proud to be from the Midwest. It’s quite pleasant to see natural green grass grow without the need of irrigation or a pack of gardeners attending to manicured lawns. It’s wonderful to breathe in fresh air, and enjoy natural beauty outside of a semi-arid desert. Think “Norman Rockwell” here. Spirit Lake has this pristine quality that leads you to believe maybe you don’t have a care in the world. I snapped a cute photo of my brother Billy and Jessica with their youngest son, Henry, on my first day. I love my brother!
On June 25, I attended my sister’s bachelorette party with my niece Lauren Chapman and my soon-to-be-step-niece Mia Howard. We all went to Barefoot Bar to meet my sister with her other close friends to help celebrate her betrothal to J.D. Howard. Before we left, I captured a photo of the bachelor party guys, Steven and J.D. Howard, with my uncle Timothy and my brother Billy Penn. We had so much fun that evening. However, while my sister unwrapped her lingerie and naught presents, something wicked was brewing up just on the other side of the lake. Can you say tornado? After leaving the Midwest at the age of 18, I still have a tremendous fear of those deadly twisters. This truly had my heart racing. We had to relocate to a Mexican restaurant because the dark front was moving fast across the lake with bolts of lightening flashing across the sky. Once I was with tequila in hand, I felt somewhat more relaxed. That was, until the lights went out there, too. OK, I have to admit, I did scream out loud in the brief moment of terror. After huddling inside the restroom, the party resumed. Let’s just say when the hail and the wind and lightening subsided, we rushed home as fast as we could. Well, I had them take me home, and their party continued on, without me.
On June 26, I woke up and realized today my sister is getting married … and I must wear a salmon-colored dress. Yes, that’s right, salmon, but sort of rosy salmon. I must say the color was better than I thought. And, quite honestly, I would wear a gunny-sack for Tracy. She rocks. First thing my sister and I did was make the floral arrangements. I helped her in the restroom downstairs strip all of the thorns from the roses. Two
sisters together, what fun! We tied them together with beautiful ribbon, and made the most beautiful bouquets. A few hours later, I drove to the most beautiful B&B. There we relaxed together in her big suite as we waited for time to trickle away. At 5:35 p.m., my sister Tracy married J.D. Howard on the Lake of Okoboj. And, luckily for all of us, there were clear skies. I have included a few photos from that day here.
Later that evening, the reception took place at my parents’ home. For awhile, the weather felt wonderful. Tracy and J.D. danced. The in-laws did, too. Everything was going smoothly until, yes, you guessed it, another tornado was spotted only five miles away. Everyone took cover in the basement. Luckily, it’s a tri-level house where the basement is really quite luxurious. So imagine everyone in comfort. Think carpet, not concrete floors. I ended up rushing upstairs with my camera to document these wild new developments on the front porch. How could I resist? The video captured the ominous dark clouds passing over the lake. No worries, the storm moved over Spirit Lake. And, the reception turned into a night to remember for all of us. I have included a gorgeous photo of Micky Kay and William Ray Penn (my parents). They graciously hosted the reception and were just beaming with pride for their eldest daughter that day. There is also a photo here of myself with my two siblings with their significant others just after the storm had passed.
On June 28, I baked my first cake! I have made cookies, and other sweet breads and brownies and pies, too. But never in my life have I baked a cake. It’s funny how you can learn new things on vacation. I discovered I love to bake. I ended up baking seven cakes, plus my sister’s birthday cake later that week, too. Let’s just say it was a week of celebrating of my sister, which she truly deserved. Later, I will write a feature on some wonderful substitutes I discovered, to help reduce the fat and calories.
On July 3, I returned home. I boarded my plane, said goodbye to my family. My mother stood at the security checkout and waved goodbye, while Jackson and I disappeared as we headed to our gate, back into our regular lives in California. Did I mention yet that I love my family? Thanks for reading my “Around Town” that just happened to be out of town for just one issue.
Continue reading My frank thoughts for this week’s column, “Machel’s Ranch.” Rancho Santa Fe News.
My Tribute my friend the late Heidi Cruz
My good friend died in April. It’s been one of those monumental things in my life that has shifted my perception about reality. When you watch someone around your age die, those last few moments stay with you, while the sun continues to rise anyway each morning.
My friend Heidi Cruz died at the age of 37. Her loss came suddenly. Heidi had only found out in September of last year that she was sick. It made me think I had more time, that some miracle would happen and Heidi could live a couple more years.
But sometimes miracles don’t happen. Death does come and we are left to go on without our loved ones. We are faced with the morbid truth that everyone must die at some point. After she died, I found myself overly anxious for my husband. I was even afraid to let him drive without me. I would think that it could be the last time I see him. Accidents happen.
I hadn’t realized it until this month, but I have been living my life in fear ever since I walked away from Heidi’s funeral. My friend died and nothing I can do can change that she is now gone. I must admit this is the first time I wondered why she had to die. Why, God? Yes, I’m a believer. I’m a believer in something more than this earth, which gives me great comfort, but her absence is still there. After these last three months of some anxious feelings, I have been looking for signs of Heidi everywhere. I keep looking but nothing has happened. I had this feeling I would still see her in my dreams. Nothing has happened, except the march against time since the last day I kissed her hand goodbye at the hospice before she died.
However, when there is deep silence inner reflection can reveal what we sometimes easily forget. What I have realized is our friendship was a gift. Those moments, the laughter, our fun times, that is what I need to shift my thoughts to — not my loss. The memories of two girls living their lives side by side sharing their dreams.
Her friendship was like an exotic scent to a girl like me from Midwest. Who was Heidi to me? Originally from the Philippines, she was a lovely woman I met at the paper five years ago. We had such fun with all of these girls working together. She and Melissa became best friends, and I was so lucky to share her light, too. There are no certain reasons why we feel a deeper bond with certain individuals than we do others. I have had closer friends I have shared more time with, but with Heidi, I could see her so deeply and completely. Her wisdom and thoughts on this life were so wonderful. Her laugh was contagious and her spirit vivacious.
When I found out she had pancreatic cancer last fall, I thought we would have more time together. More precious time. Where did it go? So fast, so suddenly, her body left, as her spirit stayed with all of her loved ones that gathered by her side.
I count myself lucky to have known Heidi Cruz. I do believe in heaven. I believe that she is there watching down, and she is at peace with all of us.
We cannot keep those we love forever. Sometimes we must let them go, and cherish the moments that we had while they were with us. I may not see Heidi in my dreams, but her memory will be with me always. Much love to her beautiful sisters and family. I will always remember my friend.
Around Town
On June 10, I stopped by Dr. Larry Pollack’s office in Del Mar and was lucky enough to have a one-on-one interview with Del Mar’s top plastic surgeon. What I first want to tell you is his staff is really wonderful. Responsive to the client’s need, you are their first priority from the moment you step into their comfortable office, which is located right off of El Camino Real in Del Mar (near Del Mar Highlands).
After talking to Dr. Pollack and asking some candid upfront questions, I found out some important facts you might want to know. In order to avoid any cosmetic procedures later in life, do the smaller steps now, life investing in a good skincare program and visiting an esthetician a few times a year before real skin damage begins to take place. I must say what delighted me is Dr. Pollak did not think I needed any major procedures done. How wonderful (that has not always been the case when I visit other clients in the past).
Dr. Pollack’s specialties are breast augmentation and tummy tucks. He also has procedure that’s been a hit called “The Mommy Makeover.” Dr. Pollack also works with Scripps Medical Center helping cancer patients with reconstructive surgery. He has a wonderful skin line that he carries in his office that is affordable and strait from Italy, called Paphos skincare. For more information on Dr. Pollak, visit www.delmarplasticsurgery.com or call (858)-350-1301 to schedule a free consultation. I have included a photo of Dr. Pollak with his staff recently in New York together for a convention. Thanks for sharing.
On June 12, acclaimed Rancho Santa Fe author and writer Diane Welch signed books at Solana Beach City Hall. If you haven’t heard of Lilian Rice then you’re probably a newcomer to the Ranch. Lilian Rice is primarily responsible for much of the aesthetic look of Rancho Santa Fe since she was the main architect to design the downtown area, plus many of the homes inside the covenant. Diane was commissioned by the ancestors of Miss Rice to write her biography on the Ranch architect. Diane is also writes for the Union Tribune, Rancho Santa Fe Review and many other publications in San Diego. She has also written a historical book on the town of Encinitas. I have included two photos from her book signing. For more information on this exciting local author, visit her website www.DianeWelch. com. Congrats on all of your achievement Diane. You definitely have my respect as another writer.
On June 16, Point Loma Nazarene University surf team earned second place at the NSSA Nationals in their College Division. Thanks to perfect surfing conditions and receiving national media attention in the town of Salt Creek, this local group of San Diegans excelled and shined next to some much larger schools like USCD, San Diego State and the University of North Carolina. Featured here are Eric Allen, Troy Mothershead, Hunter Lysaught and David Daly, all of whom received top honors in the surf competition. Others that were there that are not featured are Taylor Leopold, Nate Chesnut, Marissa Eveland and Elena Antichevich. How exciting! Thanks so much for the anonymous tip here somewhere near the Ranch. You know I can never divulge the scoop on all of my stories, but luckily I’ve got a few!
On June 19, I ran into local celebrity and designer Janice Jaraicie at Mille Fleurs. I just love it when I am the first in town to reveal a new scene, hot ticket or the newest clothing item on the market. Have you ever had one of those moments where your jeans are too low, or your cocktail dress is too much on the sheer side and since it’s not New York and we live in San Diego, you’ve needed some good alternatives to disguise your panty line? Well, now you have that ladies. It’s Janice’s newest item, www.mypanteez.com. No longer do you have to have those embarrassing moments with your low rider jeans or that awkward realization your dress is too revealing. Check out her website for all of the newest designs, just in time for Del Mar’s Opening Day. That night I thought of “manties” for men (obvious joke). But believe it or not, it’s already been taken! Darn, thought I had found my ticket to making millions. Janice, thanks for letting me be the first to tell the Ranch residents the latest lingerie fad hitting the Internet.
Later that evening, and we must say later because it was right around closing time at Mille Fleurs when I captured a photo of the handsome Julien Hug and good friend Dr. Anthony Smith hanging out together that evening. If you haven’t heard, Dr. Smith is owner of the Fairbanks hotspot Dolce, and Julien will be opening a restaurant of his own in Palm Desert this fall. Yes, that’s right, you’ll have to drive over the mountain and through the hills for the grand opening. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting new venture for Mr. Hug. For now though, make sure you stop in this summer to wish him luck. I’m thrilled for him. Also, on a side note, pick up the trilogy “The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo,” by Stieg Larsson. Another great inside tip, which I received that evening. These three books you will feel more real than your own reality, so watch out (a warning: they are on the darker side, so it’s not a light summer read).
Summer hat feature
Let’s see what’s happening for the evening look here in Rancho Santa Fe. Miss Krista Lafferty, who you may not know grew up going to Thyme in the Ranch with her mom Terrie Drago (local editor of another newspaper a few years ago), is featured in a hat that is perfect for that hip in look that I myself could use some help with on occasion. Luckily for me, Krista is one of my BFFs and she keeps me in the loop on the younger hotter trends.
My philosophy is that the key with fashion is to look current, and keep that unique quality of your own style that no one else can copy. In fact, I’m one to not follow the sleek hair trends and I still prefer that bigger hairdo that swept the 80s. So don’t hate me if I’m still using hairspray when that’s a bit taboo. Krista, thanks for letting me share your photo for this week’s Summer Hat Feature of the week. Be on the watch, I am now looking for the next featured hat for my column.
Sex and the City, and knowing “When to Say When”
Over Memorial Day weekend, I stood in line to buy my ticket to “Sex and the City 2.” OK, I confess. I broke my diet and ate some popcorn. I was like a giddy high school girl. You should have seen me sitting there, while the lights dimmed.
Then movie tape began to roll. Alicia Keys’ popular song, “Empire State of Mind II,” played as the credits flashed in sync with Manhattan skyscrapers. Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda — four femme fatales who have reeled in the viewers for more than a decade, I couldn’t wait.
I was certain this movie would be the best thing since, well, the HBO show. As you probably know, you can catch the edited versions on TBS. And, yes, I’ve seen all of the episodes in the rerun-formatted version. I’ve watched those women rummage through men, shoes, relationships, apartments, and good eateries only to want more from the fabulous four characters.
However, too much of a good thing can turn anything sour. That’s a mix of metaphors. I didn’t feel like sounding too cliché. And honestly I’m sort of in one of those moods. You know, one of those moments where you’ve realized sometimes there is a reason for two little words: the end.
What happened next over the next 25 minutes was shocking. My excitement soon turned to utter disgust when Liza Minnelli showed up singing show tunes at at a gay wedding. Um, not exactly what I was expecting when I bought my ticket. This movie was so tongue-in-cheek in the first opening scenes I felt completely insulted as a loyal fan.
I wasn’t there to watch Liza make a comeback. No. I wanted to witness the connection of these four characters that have kept me company many times on a TBS Monday night. Then it dawned on me as I sat there alone in the dark un-crowded theater, sometimes there are reasons for endings.
There was no need to see what happened after the courthouse wedding with Carrie and Mr. Big. I don’t need to see my favorite four bond in a poorly written script depicting boring marriages. Then taking that predictable girls trip to Dubai, flirting with disaster by kissing an ex-boyfriend, then riding around in the desert in multicolored outfits on camels.
No.
That’s when it happened. The unthinkable — I walked out on “Sex and the City 2.” I quickly left after witnessing another X-rated scene with Samantha with some other random guy. My stomach churned as I watched Carrie feel that huge gap because she could not recognize Clark Gable in “It Happened One Night,” but Mr. Big could. And, the sight of seeing Charlotte feeling overwhelmed with her second adopted child from China with her bald boring husband was just enough to put me over the edge.
What I wanted was gone. The show had evolved into a parody of four women no longer in their 30s, now being labeled as boring because they had found relationships with men.
I don’t know what I was expecting. I guess maybe they could all still manage life, relationships and be friends? I’m learning though from my own experiences that this may be too much to ask from reality and even from “Sex and the City.”
Sometimes, it’s OK to say when. It’s OK to move on to a different chapter, a city, say goodbye to old friends, and sometimes there is no need for a sequel. The trick in life for us is to know when to say when. Take my advice, read the book “Julie/Julia” instead. Now that is entertainment. Besides, I would rather keep Carrie in New York happily ever after with Mr. Big. I don’t need to know the rest.
Around Town
On May 28, Jill and Tony Sorge’s oldest son Anthony graduated from Santa Fe Christian High School. When Jill called to remind me of that special day, I could hardly believe the little boy I had met more than 12 years ago was now graduating from high school. This may seem like an off-the-wall thing to share, but Jill Sorge came to my side when I was checked in early with toxemia when I was pregnant with my son. I had just moved to San Diego and met Jill only a few months before. My ex-husband had just had knee surgery and this was an unexpected development at the end of my pregnancy. With my family out of town and because of the surgery, I was going to be alone during most of the induced labor. I was absolutely terrified. Luckily for me, I had met Jill. She came down in the middle of the night, harassed the nurses to make sure I was all right and never left my side. Thanks to Jill, I was not alone. Some things you never forget. Now here her oldest son has graduated from high school. Unbelievable.
Congratulations to Anthony and his beautiful family. Thanks for making our life so much more special in San Diego. Jill was kind enough to share photos from graduation day at Santa Fe Christian.
Later that night, I went out with my friends for the beginning of Memorial Day weekend. We started off at Mille Fleurs with some of our good friends. Host Julien Hug sat down with Robin and me and shared that he had just been up in Los Angeles only the week before doing charity work with part of other past members of ABC’s “The Bachelorette.” How exciting. We’ve been friends with Julien over the years and he is definitely one of Rancho Santa Fe’s very own celebrities. One time, Julien even convinced Robin to go skydiving on his own (not tandem). Robin took the five-hour course, and I watched with baited breath as I hoped he could land on his own. He pulled the toggles too soon, which made his parachute collapse about five feet from the ground. Luckily, he only skinned a knee. Those were the days. I included a fun picture of the three of us from that evening. Gal pal Krista Lafferty and her friend Tracy Justice also joined us for that wonderful evening.
On May 30, my favorite couple in town, Karian and Tom Forsyth, invited me to their fabulous Memorial Day weekend barbecue. My best friend Meredith MacDonald accompanied me to The Crosby that day to enjoy beautiful weather, exotic clothes and hot weather. What I love about Karian and Tom is they are one of the best-dressed couples in town. I never know what ensemble to expect, but each outfit is absolute perfection for that particular event. I tried hard to look stylish with my “Audrey wannabe” sunglasses but I’m more of a quirky down to earth type that wears the same shoes until the heels start falling apart. Meredith looked exceptional in her “Dancing with the Stars” ensemble. Gary and Maggie Bobeliff, and Martine Woesle were there also, just to name a few. Featured are some of the stand-out photos from that day.
Summer hat feature
Maggie Bobileff, owner of Mister B’s, happened to be wearing the most sublime white hat. All fashion icons know that Memorial Day weekend is the first weekend one can wear white for the summer. Thanks Maggie for looking absolutely gorgeous and letting me feature you for this week’s summer hat feature. And, doesn’t Chef Martin look wonderful, too? If you are lucky, you might catch Martin in his tennis shorts midday around town in the Ranch. But don’t say I mentioned that, wink, wink. Her husband Gary was also looking dapper in a pose with host Tom Forsyth. Thanks Karian for including me. Your parties make me feel oh-so-Hollywood!
On June 2, Roger Rowe in Rancho Santa Fe opened their doors to families and friends to attend Open House Night. The Community Center hosted the recital events in their stage area where parents of students from different grades took turns watching the performances. Jackson’s fourth-grade class played their recorders that evening. I snapped a photo of Cielo resident Marlene Fetzer with her gorgeous daughter. Later, all of the parents headed to classrooms to see progress of projects, and other assignments that had taken place from that school year. The best news of all? The construction is almost completed at the school. Next year will be exciting for everyone. I had the best time that evening at Roger Rowe. What an exception school for our community.
On June 5, I woke up early to help Katie and Robin (Lemon Twist) dip 1,000 chocolate strawberries for the “Best In Show” event at Helen Woodward. If you’ve never done this, you should try it. There is something very peaceful about the method of dipping strawberries into chocolate. Maybe, I just have a thing for the chocolate though. Later that evening, Lemon Twist won Best Decor from a local food critic, and Tommy V’s took home the honors for best food. I had the time of my life that evening, while working the booth for this fundraiser event. It’s always one of my favorite events of the year. Thanks Katie for always including me. You can find more photos of this evening in the paper. I have included just one here. I ran into the prettiest sisters in town, Katie and Rosie Holcombe. Can you say blonde power? I just love these two beauties. Thanks for posing for this the darling picture.
On June 8, I had the pleasure of interviewing author James Simmons. Mr. Simmons informed me over the phone of his extensive background, which includes a doctorate from UC Berkeley, teaching also at Boston University, UCSD and San Diego State. Mr. Simmons is a social historian who has published 26 nonfiction books. “I am also the only writer in the country doing these privately commissioned life and family histories, who is also a historian.”
Some of his clients include Ranch resident Bob Baker. His book came out in 2004. Mr. Baker also wants another edition. If you would love to chronicle your life story for your own family legacy, check out www.yourbiography.com. Jame Simmons is qualified to tell your story. Thanks James for the candid interview.
Continue reading Sex and the City, and knowing “When to Say When”
Strawberries for love and the return of Lemon Twist
On Mother’s Day, I did not eat a fancy brunch at the Rancho Santa Fe Country Club like some other local mothers did. Instead, I sold strawberries for love at Lemon Twist (www.lemontwistfruitstand.com).
In case this is your first column of mine to read, Lemon Twist is a fruit stand and produce shop that local resident Katie Shull started more than 30 years ago in Rancho Santa Fe. Since that time, her business had become widely known for its organic fruits, floral designs, pottery, gifts and chocolate-dipped strawberries.
In 2007, Lemon Twist donated all of the centerpieces to The Country Friend’s Fashion Show. It was also one of The Crosby’s main suppliers of floral arrangements, including numerous weddings and events. Business was booming for Lemon Twist with their suburb location right between Cielo and The Crosby.
Then, three years ago, a fire started over the weekend before Halloween. That weekend, more than 1 million residents were evacuated from their homes during the Witch Creek Fires, including us. We received our reverse 911 phone call at 5:30 a.m. At that time, I had just begun dating my husband, Robin Shull. He managed Lemon Twist for his mother, Katie.
I don’t think I will ever forget that morning, how we had driven against traffic on Del Dios Highway, trying to reach Lemon Twist. Everyone was evacuating and we were fighting to get in, with the mission of salvaging a few things just in case the fires did reach Rancho Santa Fe. The next morning when we found out Lemon Twist burned down, I was with Robin and his family. Ironically, when we received the phone call, Robin’s mother Katie was sharing family videos of her three children growing up over the years. When we heard the news, Katie said, “At least we are all safe, here together.”
If someone had to ask me when I knew I would marry my husband, I could pin-point it to that very weekend of the fires. They say during a crisis you learn a lot about those you love and how you react during certain situations. That weekend, Robin’s family took me in, along with my son (and my cat). We had seven people crammed into a one bedroom in Oceanside, with three dogs, too.
What can I tell you? That day that Lemon Twist burnt down, we all cried together, like many others did that week, too. I didn’t know a fruit stand could break your heart, but it broke mine that day we lost it in the fires. I had met my husband there for the first time three months prior. I would help him dip chocolate covered strawberries, while listening to the eucalyptus trees blowing gently behind the stand. Jackson and I would go there and visit Robin for hours. It had a familiar quality that reminded me of simple things like I used feel, while growing up on a farm in Missouri.
So imagine me now, almost three years later, finally standing there on Mother’s Day, with the business re-opened. This may seem from the outside looking in that selling strawberries on that particular day has less appeal than the big brunch ticket at a country club. However, if you could’ve seen my son’s expression every time someone arrived. Jackson would yell, “Mom, there’s another customer” with the biggest smile. I would answer, “I know, how exciting!”
No, I didn’t eat a fancy brunch on Mother’s Day. Instead, I stood next to my husband and son and sold strawberries for love. After all, it’s what is in your heart that truly matters. How lucky for me. Come see us when you can. Lemon Twist is now open for business. Maybe next year I’ll eat some eggs, too. For more information check out www.lemontwistfruitstand.com.
Around town
On April 23, I received word from local North County local resident John Riedy that he had just flown back from Iraq. That’s right. John was just one of six photojournalists chosen to help educate the Iraqis on free press. Once overseas, John had to prepare PowerPoint presentation, which focused on these three objectives: creating the image (storytelling and objectivity), gear and post production. “We spent five days in Iraq, three of which were filled with the conference. There were approximately 50 to 60 Iraqi journalists in attendance. The crux of our message to the Iraqis was, here’s how we do it in the west; it may not be the best way, but you want to create a product that can be picked up by western media outlets, so the Iraqis can be the one controlling the perception of the world’s country,” John shared with me. He was kind enough to share one of his photos from his amazing experience. John is a sought-after wedding photographer in the San Diego area, and the proud father of two boys. He is married to Becky Riedy, and they reside happily in the La Costa area, just around the corner from Rancho Santa Fe. If you would like to learn more about his experience in Iraq, visit www.johnriedy.com. Congratulations on such a thrilling experience, John.
On April 27, Mille Fleurs hosted its first Tapas and Tunes on Tuesdays, DJ Night, at 7 p.m. I ran into Dolce owner Dr. Anthony Smith, along with gal pal Krista Lafferty. I took a picture of them inside the bar, just before the party started outside. More than 50 to 60 guests enjoyed the light fare menu, while sipping on their cocktails under the stars in the lovely courtyard. This was just the first of many more to come for summertime, I’m sure. Stay tuned for the next evening. Trust me, this is one you don’t want to miss next time. For more information, call (858) 756-3085. Thanks for the invite, Mille Fleurs.
On April 29, Fine Magazine held their F2 Fashion Show at the Del Mar Hilton. More than 300 guests and clients attended this exciting gala. Proceeds were given to Kid’s Corps, “to support various learning projects that Kid Corps operates,” said Fine Magazine’s editor Laurie Alternbern. Some of the featured designers on the runway were GRACIE, GSB Men’s Clothier, The Lizz Russell Collection and P.J’s Hats. The buffet was catered by Que Pasa, my favorite Mexcan restaurant in town, and desserts were provided by Cupcake Love and Incredible Edibles. Summer fashion was the theme on stage, with a finale that included elegant gowns and a wedding dress. Who needs New York Fashion week, when we have such a fabulous life in San Diego? What you may not know is Laurie Alternbern will be running in the half-marathon June 6 at the famous Rock-n-Roll Marathon. How exciting, maybe I can be there at the finish line to share some cool photos from that day!??
On May 3, Vicki O’Rourke, the admissions director of Santa Fe Christian, shared with me the thrilling news that two seniors, Jenna Puterbaugh and Olivia Gardner, have received and accepted full scholarships to USC. How exciting! Jenna Puterbaugh is one of the top sprinters in the state. Her full ride to USC is an athletic scholarship. Olivia Gardner was awarded a Trustee Scholarship. Both girls attribute their success to Santa Fe Christian’s excellent academic and athletic departments to their recent found achievements. Let’s wish these two lovely girls the start of a brand new journey and keep only positive thoughts in our hearts for their journey. Thanks Vicki for sharing the exciting news with “Machel’s Ranch.” Maybe one day soon, my son will be lucky enough to attend Santa Fe Christian School. Another tidbit regarding a Santa Fe Christian student is Ranch resident Albert Plattner’s daughter Keziah Plattner was accepted to Stanford University. I will be featuring more photos in my next column of outstanding seniors in the community.
Later that day, Chip Levinson took some pretty cool photos of the Rancho Santa Fe Little League teams at Solana Santa Fe in Fairbanks. I have included Jake Robbins “up to bat” here as the featured little league player this week. The Bulls didn’t win the game that day, but they did later that weekend at the YMCA Ecke Field in Encinitas. Thanks Chip for the fabulous photos.
On May 6, I met Maria Pegram at the Rancho Santa Fe Cielo Village Certified Farmers’ Market. Maria lunched the Cielo Market’s on April 8. Due to poor weather the first couple of weeks were slower, but the word is spreading about this exciting new event on Thursdays. There are more than 20 vendors with an array of choices, from hummus, to fresh fruit, jewelry, organic produce, and other fabulous choices. For your next Thursday afternoon, show your support to the community and check out this lovely farmer’s market, from 2:30 to 7 p.m. For more information call, Maria Pegram at (858) 679-1343. ??
On May 7, Jere and his wife Joyce Owen were honored for their donation to the Scripps Cancer Center, Stevens Division in the form of a charitable gift annuity in honor of their good friend, Elizabeth Staley Sanger, who recently died from cancer. They made a gift donation of $100,000, toward fighting cancer. After recently losing a good friend to pancreatic cancer, I wanted to honor Jere and his wife Joyce for their generous donation. It is also rumored around town that Jere canceled a few of his summer cruises and used that money to buy a new roof for the newly constructed Village church. Jere Owen is also an active member of the Rancho Santa Fe Rotary Club. If you see him, congratulate him for his huge heart for all of his recent good Samaritan acts in the community. If you are interested in making a charitable annuity gift, call (858) 678-7120.?
Summer hats
This summer, find your favorite hat to beat the heat, and save your skin from more wrinkles. Do wear sunscreen, and most of all, don’t forget to look stylish, while looking young and hip. Featured here is Meredith MacDonald wearing a “Toby Keith hat” spotted at Mille Fleurs recently with good friend Karian Forsyth. If you have any stylish summer hat photos, please send them to me. I would love your photo in my next “Machel’s Ranch.”
Continue reading Strawberries for love and the return of Lemon Twist
Vacation time
I am here in Spirit Lake watching the world go by slowly. At my family’s home in the Midwest, life feels utterly perfect and sane. If I could give anyone advice in life it would be to love your family more. My parents have instilled in me the value of ‘fun’, good times and how important it is to take some time to just relax.
Vacations are important because they give you perspective on your current circumstances when you walk away from them.
I have been baking cakes every night, playing scrabble and just hanging out in my pj’s drinking coffee. Be happy, relax and find some time to love your family more.
Have a wonderful day! m
My Exclusive Interview with Karian Forsyth.
http://thecoastnews.com/view/full_story/7341328/article-Spotlight-on-Ranch-resident–matchmaker-Karian-Forsyth?instance=lead_story_left_column
(Above is the story link to the Rancho Santa Fe Website, photos included).
After recently attending a book signing of a famous matchmaker in Beverly Hills, I became inspired by this new enterprise that has many individuals finding true love. And what better way to find out the inside dish on how these services really work than from one of my good friends? I had the pleasure of interviewing Rancho Santa Fe’s very own matchmaker, Karian Forysth. She was kind enough to share some of her insights in my latest column:
Q. When did you become a matchmaker Karian?
A. In 1992.
Q. I explored your website and found all of these amazing stories of couples that found love because of you. How rewarding is that to know you have enabled others to find their true love?
A. It’s the most amazing thing to know that you have helped to make someone’s life change for the better. Whether it’s the best date that they have had or the ultimate goal for people who want a lasting commitment.
Q. I have to ask, what do you think of the Rancho Santa Fe dating scene?
A. Since I am happily married as you are, I view it as another possible reality show! Being a smaller community with fewer places to go and a more mature group of singles makes it difficult for single people to find their ideal match.
Q. What advice would you give to those who are hesitant to invest money in finding the match, through your company?
A. If you are single and what you are doing isn’t working then you should be open and investing in alternative methods such as visiting The Ideal Match as we give results and have the solutions.
Q. If you could give some words of encouragement to someone still looking to find love, what would you say to them?
A. Well Machel, being an optimist and someone that takes action in all aspects of my life, I say what do you have to lose? Keep doing what you are doing and remain single or be proactive and try something different with me.
Q. What do you think of “Millionaire Matchmaker” on Bravo? Is it really like that in the matchmaking business, or it that just hype for television?
A. I was entertained by it seeing that I am in the same business. Of course it’s not like that in my business we don’t rent mega-yachts and have two men pick from 20 women. It’s individual, one-on-one matching.
Q. Do you believe in love at first sight?
A. Yes I do believe in love at first sight for some people. On the other hand you can first meet someone and not think that they were your typical type, but a wonderful surprise occurs and they could be the love of your life. So the moral of the story is if you are lucky enough to have love at first sight that’s perfect. On the other hand if you meet someone that has great qualities this could be love at second sight, which is just as perfect.
Q. Last question. Why did you choose Rancho Santa Fe for your hometown?
A. I have lived all over the U.S., and once I moved to the San Diego area I grew to love Rancho Santa Fe more than anywhere I have lived.
Around Town
On April 10, I received word from my great friend Meredith MacDonald that her son Holden hit two grand slams in one game. If you know anything about baseball, that’s pretty cool. My son Jackson plays Little League too. So what I can tell you is for that to happen in one game is definitely newsworthy to me. Holden is part of the Del Mar Little League and is a member of the Angels! If you have any fun photos from Little League or other sports you would like to share with the community this spring, please share them with me. Thanks for sharing the photo, Meredith. Way to go “Home-run Holden!”
On April 14, Helen Woodward’s Spring Fling committee for Best in Show hosted a wine tasting at Fairbanks Country Club. Each guest that was invited was asked to bring an expensive bottle of wine, which would then be donated to the wine auction at the Spring Fling event coming up in June. My mother-in-law Katie Shull is head of this committee, and is featured here with her husband Ken Shull. Also featured are Dottie and Ed McCrink of Rancho Santa Fe. Make sure you buy your tickets now to help raise money for animals that need our help. This is one of my favorite events of the year!
Please visit www.animalcenter.org/events/fling/. June 5 is just around the corner, so remember to buy your tickets now to one the most exclusive events of the year in Rancho Santa Fe.
On April 17, I had the pleasure of attending another wonderful spa party at Karian Forsyth’s home in the Crosby. With the recent rains, the mountains have never looked more gorgeous inside the gates of this pristine community. The guests lounged around pool side in gorgeous frocks that resembled Egyptian attire fit for queens. Of course, coming from my son’s ballgame, I had my basic jeans and T-shirt. I guess I didn’t receive the dress code memo, just kidding of course. Melissa Williams also came that day for some fun in the sun. I enjoyed having my eyebrows dyed sort of dark and thick, think “Marilyn” here. I still go for that retro look I guess. Some of the other lovely ladies enjoyed facials by Oxygen Medical Spa, and a fabulous massage. Karian’s husband Tom crashed the party. I snapped a relaxing photo of him by the pool. Thanks Karian for including me at one of the best events each month in town. Life is meant to be lived luxuriously, especially in Rancho Santa Fe.
On April 15, Deana Carter from Carter Financial shared with me some important information regarding the recent health care changes. “The new health law will unfold over the next few years, with many of the highly controversial provisions not taking effect until after 2012,” Carter said. “The real costs of the bill are only becoming evident in 2014, although billions of dollars in new taxes and fees take effect sooner.” If you would like to meet Deana for some of your own financial planning, please contact her at (858)756-1566. I have included this photo of Deana from one of her health law forums she held right here in Rancho Santa Fe. Deana is also very active in the Rancho Santa Fe Rotary club. Thanks Deana for sharing this important information with the community.
On April 23, I ran into Holly Manion at Mille Fleurs on a hopping Friday night. The piano bar there, with Randy Beecher as the featured artist, is the perfect way to jumpstart your weekend. Holly was looking absolutely fabulous that evening and I captured a photo of her surrounded by some good-looking men in the courtyard that night. Holly keep up that fiery spirit, and thanks for always being so lovely to me. Oh, also, save the date for Mother’s Day Brunch at Mille Fleurs on May 9. Chef Martin always delivers the best brunch to spoil your mom that day. Trust me, this is a day you don’t overlook the woman that gave birth to you! To make your reservation, call (858)-756-3085.
Coming up in my next column, find out which local resident just went to Iraq as a photo journalist. I will be sharing these photos, plus which business will be making a grand opening three years after the Witch Creek Fire? Find out in my next “Machel’s Ranch.”
Continue reading My Exclusive Interview with Karian Forsyth.
I miss my friend Heidi Cruz
With all of the recent changes going on, I cannot sleep. I am up. I am here. I am at the paper. I am writing. I am at Lemon Twist. I am running. I am a mother, little league and the list is endless. Do you ever feel like you can’t keep up with your own life sometimes? When this happens to me, I try to remember little things, like what makes me happy during the middle of the day. Something simple for me, in the midst of my schedule of so much and many things. We must remember to indulge ourselves the sweet pleasure of a simple smile that is just pleasing to one’s soul. Not to sound too ‘Zen-like’ here, but truly there is a gift in small moments that remind us this life is not just one routine after the next. It’ is not only our career, our family, but to simply live life and to enjoy all that we must do.
Recently, a good friend of mine died from pancreatic cancer. Losing my young friend, Heidi Cruz, has impacted my life tremendously.
What I have learned from this experience is to truly be present and good to those that surround you on a daily basis. Try to be lighter, happier, and just more pleasant. Life is difficult enough without those that would love to constantly complain about their own misgivings. Don’t worry, I too, fall into this category; you know that pity thing that can latch onto us when we least expect it.
The important thing is to remember to love with an open heart (if you want to know what that means, it simply means to be REAL)
and give the most of yourself to those you love.
I am unable to sleep, but I must try…I must tonight. Because tomorrow is another wonderful day I am lucky enough to have, and I am thankful for that. Goodnight, and sweet dreams. Machel Penn Shull
