Posts tagged with Machel Penn

Paperback Novels and the institution of Marriage-”Machel’s Ranch,” The Rancho Santa Fe News

  • Posted on August 1, 2010 at 10:22 pm

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

Continue reading Paperback Novels and the institution of Marriage-”Machel’s Ranch,” The Rancho Santa Fe News

My frank thoughts for this week’s column, “Machel’s Ranch.” Rancho Santa Fe News.

  • Posted on July 17, 2010 at 9:31 am

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.

FINE MAGAZINE SAN DIEGO

  • Posted on July 15, 2010 at 4:48 pm

FINE Magazine

http://finesd.com/viewmagazine.php
Please take some time to review this link. I write for FINE Magazine in the San Diego area. They are one of the top luxury magazines in Southern California. I am proud to say, I have written eight features for them, including this month’s feature.
Please check out page 42 and 43 on the link. The Cardiff Feature is my featured article, which is tagged on the cover of its magazine cover John and Heather Winfield rock period. They distribute all over Southern California, including Palm Springs and Orange County.

Continue reading FINE MAGAZINE SAN DIEGO

Sex and the City, and knowing “When to Say When”

  • Posted on July 11, 2010 at 3:44 pm

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

  • Posted on July 11, 2010 at 3:08 pm

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

ABC’s Next Bachelor could be a reason to watch CSI Miami

  • Posted on October 6, 2009 at 12:35 am
Watch out ABC's Bachelor
Watch out ABC’s Bachelor

As rumors fly regarding the next ABC’s Bachelor, that leaves room to still wonder….Who was that pilot again? CBS Miami will definitely be your better option if they choose Jake over Kiptyn…Maybe this is more of a slant from a columnist perspective, and I’m just going to be brutally honest:

If Jake-the-pilot is the next bachelor, I may have to boycott writing about my favorite

television show. Click here to read about his name change and his

”wanna be acting days”. Yes, Kiptyn Locke is obviously my favorite. I am, after all,

from that same neighboring town. How unfortunate if ABC got suckered in by

the man that cried over the balcony in Texas. Oh, and the biggest snitch since

“On the Waterfront” starring Marlon Brando. Don’t you remember the killing of the pigeons? That’s what the next ABC’s Bachelor will feel like for us viewers if we have to stomach the wrong man with the roses.

Well, I’m afraid to be the first one to state th obvious, but there is a reason Jake was kicked off

the Bachelor by Jillian Harris. Not because he’s perfect, but maybe because he came across as someone that acted as if he was a ‘cut above the rest’. I don’t like arrogant attitudes or men that think they are better than other guys because their shirt is more perfectly pressed at the seams. It’s also inappropriate to throw someone under the bus, so to speak like he did with Wes Hayden on The Bachelorette.

Let’s just hope that next week’s “Dancing with the Stars” reveals that Kiptyn Locke is being named ABC’s Next Bachelor, sending Jake back to his cockpit in Dallas, Texas.

Sorry, Jake, but this blond prefers real men that don’t sell out others to look like a winner. Wes Hayden eliminated himself in the end.

Those are just my two cents on this whole Bachelor thing. Looks like CSI Miami will have my vote for sure on Monday night. Thank goodness for excellent television programing on CBS. Unless Kiptyn Locke comes up with the final rose…lets hope so San Diego.

http://www.examiner.com/x-19308-San-Diego-TV-Examiner~y2009m10d6-ABCs-Next-Bachelor-could-be-a-reason-to-watch-CSI-Miami

To leave a comment click READ MORE.

Machel Penn

Continue reading ABC’s Next Bachelor could be a reason to watch CSI Miami

Kiptyn Locke to be named next ABC’s Bachelor October 13th.

  • Posted on September 28, 2009 at 12:23 am
The Next Bachelor

The Next Bachelor

As rumored for the last three months, since The Bachelorette finale ended, Kiptyn Locke will be announced as ABC’s Next Bachelor on October 13th, Dancing with the Stars.

Kiptyn Locke appeared on ABC’s The Bachlorette and was a favorite with fans on many of the on-line websites. Speculation of who would be named this coveted role has been circulating ever since the “ATFR” ceremony ended.

Since Jillian Harris had been announced earlier this year on this popular recap, fans and audiences alike were disappointed with Chris Harrison did not reveal this summer who ABC had chosen.

With next year’s Bachelor being a local San Diegan, look forward to finding out what happens next, with the inside gossip at T.V. Examiner.com.

There should be plenty of cameras filling San Diego, which should bring quite a stir to the hip surfing community of Encinitas and other surrounding communities. Click here to read which Southern Californian Columnist revealed the inside scoop before other local newspapers.

Don’t forget to tune into October 13th’s Dancining with the Stars to find out if the latest on our local celebrity news is true.

http://www.examiner.com/x-19308-San-Diego-TV-Examiner.

to leave a comment, click READ MORE.

Continue reading Kiptyn Locke to be named next ABC’s Bachelor October 13th.

The Country Friends Fashion Show Day

  • Posted on September 26, 2009 at 8:04 pm
Machel Penn, Janice Jaraicie, and Jill Sorge
Machel Penn, Janice Jaraicie, and Jill Sorge

The Country Friends Fashion Show is one of my favorite events of the year. Since 1954, this wonderful organization has been hosting what has become the largest outdoor fashion show on the west coast. Think “Sex and the City” here.

Think New York without the skycrapers and the humidity. Imagine Fashion week arriving to one of the wealthiest upscale communities in Southern California. Now insert that into this one glorious day and you have the best ‘Day Event’ to attend in San Diego happening in my favorite community.
Every year, my best friends and I head out for a fun luncheon at Mille Fleurs (just so you know I did see Sharon Stone there this week!) to enjoy the most fabulous leafy green and lobstor salads, fine wine and good conversation. The new trend is to merge groups of friends onto one table so you have one large bubbly group of women in one sitting.
This is not a day to choose the conservative dress or to be shy. This is a day where you must put it all out there and shine. I hate to throw some attitude to good ol’ New York City, but Southern California is known for their gorgeous weather, but most of all the beautiful women. Can you say, “400- beauties-of-all-ages-under-one-tent-in-one place-while-watching-skinny-models-shine-in-the-hottest-fashions-like-Pucci-and-Donna Karan?”
No, this is really a day for all women to come together, enjoy being women, while raising money for charities through Country Friends.
I am just thrilled every year to attend.  One must grab on to their own surroundings and make their own moments grand.
This is just my own sort of philosophy.
Thank-youu to Jill Sorge and to Janice and to Dana, Pearl and her friends for making my day just the absolute best day ever for friend fashion and a chilled shot of tequila.  Machel Penn

Continue reading The Country Friends Fashion Show Day