“Machel’s Ranch” Column; The Rancho Santa Fe News (May 3rd, 2012 Issue)

I am sitting in my backyard. The air is quiet. The sky is blue. There is a hint of summer in the air today in the harsh sunlight, which has been hidden by the clouds almost all winter. I am in between moments. In about 45 minutes I will be driving down to La Jolla. I will zip down there on the freeway, weave in and out of Torrey Pines Road and arrive about one minute before I am on the floor at a fine art gallery I work for. Before this quiet minute to write, I made the rounds in the early morning with my husband for his Lemon Twist. We listened to “Bill Handle On the Law.” We gathered local produce and zipped back to Rancho Santa Fe. Then we unloaded and watched the world trickle in and out of the fruit stand. I dipped strawberries in melted chocolate from Europe, I swept floors and met customers on holiday for the weekend in Southern California. I even managed to squeeze in a nature walk and managed not to be side swiped by the mountain bikers on the San Dieguito reserve trails. Now I am here. I am quiet. Life has slowed down for one hour so I can breathe in a moment of solitude. I am enjoying the simple chirping sounds of the sweet birds that like to eat the sunflower seeds I leave for them. I am taking time to enjoy petting my two Siamese cats on the patio furniture outside under the shade. For now, I am grounded in simple things that are soothing to my soul. When life is in constant action, don’t forget to nourish your soul with reflective silence. Make time. Don’t forget that quieting the mind is like inspiration to the soul.

Around Town

On April 21, I received some great news! Del Mar Majors Yankees team celebrated their win over the Red Sox in Carmel Valley. On a coincidental note, the real “Yankees” team beat the Red Sox, too, on the same day. One of these young boys may be headed for the real majors someday…you never know. After losing a couple of games, the thrill of victory is even sweeter. Their smile says it all. Congratulations to the parents, coaches and kids that enjoyed sweet victory that day.

On April 24, I ran a few errands in Rancho Santa Fe after picking up my son from school. Stumps Village Market and the post office are always buzzing with a packed parking lot, many people, and on this particular day a man a political group had gathered with signs that read, “Impeach Obama.” Well, I always say, you never know what you might be missing around town if you aren’t going out. The big news that happened that day is I discovered on the town message board a flyer about a Labrador retriever mix named Archie that is looking for a home. His big smile and sweet eyes really spoke to me. “I’m wonderful and sweet and would protect you,” the smile said. Well, I tore off the little tab, called Beth and found out that he most definitely needs a home. So if you are looking for a devoted mature dog to bring love and laughter into your life, Archie is for you!

Fourth graders, Morgan Meyes, Reese MacDonald and Logan Zarkroske at the Gold Rush party at Ocean Air Elementary in Torrey Hills. Courtesy photo

Later that day, I received a beautiful photo of fourth-graders Morgan Meyes, Reese MacDonald and Logan Zarkroske at the Gold Rush party at Ocean Air Elementary. This extravaganza is devoted to fourth-graders learning about California history and what happened during the gold rush period. How wonderful! This picture captures more than just that. It reminds us why friendships are so important in our lives, even at a young age. Never take your friends for granted.

On April 26, I stopped in at my very favorite bookstore in the whole wide world: The Book Cellar. This lovely second hand bookshop is a pleasant, meditative experience. From the absolute quiet seclusion of being buried between many rows of fabulous books, what I love the most are the volunteers who sit in front that volunteer their own private time. After purchasing “Stern Men” by Elizabeth Gilbert and a book called the “The Office Goddess,” I found out the yearly half-off book sale is just around the corner.

Krista Lafferty and Machel Penn Shull at Mille Fleurs on a Friday night. Courtesy photo

Adele Snyder, Elaine Oswald and Mary-Ellen Drummond are all members of the Rancho Santa Fe Library Guild. They were kind enough to let me snap a picture so I could help promote this sale in the paper. All books will be 50 percent off. There is even a drawing to win a $50 gift certificate. Don’t miss out! The book sale runs May 3 to May 5. For more information, visit rsflibraryguild.org.

On April 27, I found a few friends and a smile at my favorite restaurant in Rancho Santa Fe — Mille Fleurs. Due to a very busy work and writing schedule, I haven’t been there to enjoy Randy Beecher’s excellent piano music and lively ambience. How wonderful to see everyone, it felt just like old times again. Miss Krista Lafferty — the assistant advertising manager for this paper — was there along with her fiancé Mike Confer, my husband Robin Shull, Ranch resident Ben Simmons, Shannon Elle and Vicki Lavanty. Many of you might recognize Vickie as a well know hair salon owner in Solana Beach. Vickie has had her own salon there for more than 15 years. If you are interested in discovering a new place to call home as far as a salon, call Vickie at (858) 350-1764.

Machel Penn Shull has been writing for the Rancho Santa Fe News since 2008. She also writes for various magazine in Southern California. To contact Machel, email her at mpenn (at)coastnewsgroup(.)com.

Adopt A Labrador named Archie

Looking for the perfect companion for long walks and lots of love? Adopt Archie today! Contact Beth at (858) 673-5235.

I am already neutered, housetrained, up to date with shots, good with kids, and good with dogs.

Archie’s Story…   Looking for a new pet dog to call your own? Are you avoiding the puppy phase and need a perfect mate for long walks and a devoted personality? Well, last week when I was in Rancho Santa Fe doing some errands in town, I found a flyer on this handsome Labrador mix named archie. He looks like a such a sweetie and the paper forgot to place his photo in the the column so I am hoping someone will see this and fall in love with Archie’s sweet smile and good natured personality.

I’m very fond of people and sociable dogs–no matter their size.  In fact, I get along with everyone–even pocket pets!  I’d would be well with older, dog-savvy children.  My kisses are almost as good as a bath!  I’m a smart guy, and will take treats gently from your hand.  I already know a couple of commands, and am ready to learn lots more.  I am crate and housetrained.  I love my walks and do best with a Sensation-type harness.

I’ll make a great companion for some lucky person.  Could it be you?

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT Beth at knuckles145@gmail.com , or call 858-673-5235.   

Rare Mackenzie Thorpe Art and Dr. Seuss Art at Legends Gallery in La Jolla, California

If you are an art collector and are looking to find two new artists to add to your personal collection, look no further than to Mackenzie Thorpe and Dr. Seuss.

Mackenzie Thorpe is a world renowned English born artist that has triumphed over his own adversities, while inspiring many all over the world. We carry rare edition pieces of Mackenzie Thorpe, plus two originals adorn the walls at Legends Gallery. One particular Etching that is Rare and Sold out already, “This Little Heart Of Mine,” is still available…NOW. The key word is now because there only a handful left before “This Little Heart of Mine” will be completely sold out.  This piece measures 18″ h x 24″ w unframed and is $2500.00. The example below shows an excellent way of framing Mackenzie Thorpe’s famous child-in-duffel-coat image that is synonymous of his artwork all over the world. In Mackenzie Thorpe’s own words: “Sometimes I paint a child, he may not have a face.

Without a face, he’s every child. the clot of his coat is hardy and plain, his shoes sturdy. Sometimes he has so little that I paint him without a shadow.  The landscape is barren, without flowers or trees. The child is totally alone. But then I might add a bit of color, trying to put some hope in the picture.”

Mackenzie Thorpe’s work embraces the struggle of love and why love is always a blessing…even when love can be difficult. Thorpe reminds us to never forget to bring love with us on our journey in life….

Do please call the gallery immediately if you are interested because there are truly only a handful left in the world. Ask for “Michelle” at Legends Gallery. The number is: (858) 456-9900.

Legends Gallery also carries world renowned author Theodor Geisel Seuss, known to his many fans and avid readers as “Dr. Seuss.”  What many of you may not know is Dr. Seuss was also an extraordinary painter. Keeping his collection to himself and to his only privileged circle of loved ones and friends, fans of Dr. Seuss have been able to collect his work beginning in 1997 when they began releasing the edition pieces to the public. One of my favorite pieces of Dr. Seuss’s is called “Every Girl Should Have a Unicorn.”

This particular piece I feel embraces the vibrancy of color he used in his books, his whimsical approach toward life with the tiny reminder in the right hand corner of the painting not to forget our precious imagination. “Every Girl Should Have a Unicorn,” by Dr. Seuss measures 36″ x 24″ unframed and was released in 2001. Priced at $3195.00.

Legends Gallery is Located:

1405 Prospect Street

La Jolla, California 92037 U.S.A.

(858) 456-9900. Ask for “Michelle” when you call and mention this site, please.

Legends is open seven days a week. I work there part-time, so please do take time to mention this  site if you call in with a phone order.

Legends Gallery does include shipping on both of these pieces (United States) and no taxes are added to out-of-state shipping.

(858) 456-9900 ask for “Michelle” or you can email me at

Machel (at) Legendsgallerylajolla(dot)com.

Dr. Seuss’s Rare “Cat From The Wrong Side of the Tracks” available at Legends Gallery

Theodor Seuss Geisel "Dr. Seuss"

Great News for you Dr. Seuss lovers: A rare edition piece from Dr. Seuss’s “Secret Art” Collection is on display and available at Legends Gallery in La Jolla, California, U.S.A. For those of you whom are familiar with Dr. Seuss, but not the term “Secret Art,” Dr. Seuss was not only an illustrator but also a gifted painter. After Dr. Seuss died, the first time the world became privy to viewing his whimsical, yet interesting art was in 1995 in a book called “The Secret Art of Dr. Seuss,”  published by Random House. In 1997, the first edition pieces were released. In 2001, “Cat From The Wrong Side of the Tracks,” measuring 44″ x 24″ was released at $1695.00 Now, as one of the most sought out paintings of the edition pieces, Cat From The Wrong Side of the Tracks” is available for $22,500.00 unframed. If you are a Dr. Seuss collector and are looking to obtain any of the Rare and Sold Out pieces by Dr. Seuss, please call (858)456-9900 and ask for “Michelle.” Legends Gallery is located in the heart of La Jolla.

"Cat From The Wrong Side of the Tracks" by Dr. Seuss; also, "Green Cat with Lights," And "Wisdom of the Orient Cat"

Mackenzie Thorpe Originals now at Legends Fine Art Gallery in La Jolla, California, USA

Legends Fine Art Gallery is proud to announce carrying the original artwork of world renowned artist

MACKENZIE THORPE.

Legends Gallery in La Jolla is one of the only galleries in the United States to carry orginals by this English born artist.

Mackenzie Thorpe’s artwork can be found all over the world from Japan, Austrailia, America and Europe.

With his own original style that captures the innocence and visionary qualities we all have as children, Mackenzie pays homage  to this effervescent spirit, reminding us to always remember those intrinsic qualities.

Mackenzie Thorpe’s art has a raw emotional trigger that can immediately draw in a soulful, imprint that moves the viewer; interpreting what they experience with any of Thorpe’s pieces.

“In A Sea of Love” captures Mackenzie Thorpe’s artwork and is an example of his signature child-like pieces that immediately brings a smile to you.

For more details on the original artwork by Mackenzie Thorpe, please call Legends at 858-456-9900 and ask for “Michelle.”

Legends Gallery is open 7 days a week and offers

“A collector’s consideration discount” on certain pieces at the gallery. Do inquire within.

www.legendsgallerylajolla.com

“Marilyn” by Marco Toro now at Legends Gallery in La Jolla, California

Marilyn by Marco Toro now at Legends Gallery in La Jolla

Legends Gallery in La Jolla is now carrying English Artist, MARCO TORO.

Featured here is “Marilyn,” which is available now at Legends Gallery in La Jolla, California.

Marco Toro is an English artist that is well known around the world for his iconic pieces of movie stars.  When well known actor Michael Caine discovered his portrait he asked if he could sign it, which is definitely an endorsement.

“Marilyn” is an original acrylic on canvas measuring 48″ x 36″ inches. This piece is priced at a cool $2595.00. Depicting Marilyn’s soft and feminine features, if you are a Marylin Monroe fan, this painting captures her aloof nature and breath-taking qualities.

If you love Marilyn but the size is too large for your wall space, there is a smaller verson available

at Legends Gallery as well. “Marilyn: Starlet” is also an original acrylic on canvas and measures

27.5 x 19.5 inches at $1595.00.

Legends is also displaying “Blue Eyes,-Frank Sinatra,” “Al Pacino,” and “Paul Newman.”

We are able to obtain any of Marco Toro’s work: Johnny Cash, Audrey Hepburn, Elvis, John Lennon, Jim Morrison and many more.

We are able to ship to anywhere in the world. If you are located in the United States, we can include shipping for you as well on the Marco Toro pieces. If you have any questions or if you would like to buy either “Marilyn” please call the gallery at (858) 456-9900 and ask for “Michelle.”

"Marilyn: Starlet" by Marco Toro now at Legends Gallery in La Jolla, California

Legends Gallery is located in the heart of La Jolla Village.

1205 Prospect Street, Suite B

La Jolla, California 92037

(858) 456-9900

Open seven days a week.

www.Legendsgallerylajolla.com

Legends Gallery also carries these artists: Dr. Seuss, Mackenzie Thorpe, Nelson De La Nuez, Martin Beaupre, Randy Cooper, Joelle Blouin, Peter Benke, Joan Miro, and Norman Rockwell.

La Perla Fashion Feature written for FINE Magazine

La Perla

If you know who the fictional character of Becky Bloomwood from Sophie Kinsella’s “Confession’s of a Shopaholic Series,” there’s a good chance that you may know that the Italian brand La Perla can only be found in San Diego at Neiman Marcus at the Fashion Valley Mall.  Like most high end shoppers, this fictional character treasured her La Perla lingerie almost as much as her Denny & George green scarf. Think tight corsets, satin and velvet for lingerie and sexy summer prints for swimwear or sumptuous scents that capture the hot hazy afternoons in Southern California. If you are looking to dazzle this summer, Le Perla will entice you to squeeze your bank account for that must have Italian designer fashion for your wardrobe this summer.

The name La Perla was inspired by the red velvet lined cases, in which the first shipments were transported to the exclusive wealthy clients in Italy. The history on this infamous Italian designer dates back to 1954, when Ada Mascotti established this Iconic principal fashion house in Bologna, Italy. Using only the finest quality of fabrics, La Perla designs were originally exclusive corset pieces and underwear garments made for the upper echelon of rich women in Europe. Mascotti’s understanding of femininity and the female body shape marked the beginning of this luxurious line to be enjoyed by men and women for many years to come.

Over the next few decades, La Perla added other lines like petticoats, chemises and negligees, including separates. During the 80’s, La Perla launched a swimwear and perfume line, diversifying the company and expanding its appeal. Today, La Perla is found is the most revered department stores all over the world, including the world famous Harrods in London, Bergdoff Goodman in New York, Saks and Neiman Marcus.

          If you would like to shop for the must have La Perla summer items, Neiman Marcus in Fashion Island is your only local source in San Diego. One of the department sales associates, Christine, gave some inside details for shoppers in San Diego. “There’s not a specific age range with this brand. It appeals to young and more sophisticated. We only carry certain pieces here of La Perla in Fashion Valley. The La Perla location in Beverly Hills on Rodeo Drive carries a larger selection, or you can go online to their website.”

If you are interested in wearing La Perla swimwear for this summer you must buy it on-line here locally. Recently featured in the Sports Illustrated 2011, model Kate Upton was featured wearing a multi-colored teal print in this latest issue.  On the cover of April’s Marie Claire, Icon Katy Perry was featured wearing La Perla’s Jean Paul Gautlier Collection Createur. One Gaultier bra La Perla was also featured that month. From Vogue to FINE Magazine, La Perla is showcased as a ‘must have’ designer around the world.

Maybe there is a bit of Sophie Kinsella’s Becky Bloomwood in all us this summer. When you’re heart is telling you that you must be stylish under the sun here in California, listen to that inner voice and shop luxuriously. Remember La Perla was made especially for women to feel sensual and soft by its sheer feminine designs. And, gentlemen, don’t feel left out. There are shirts and underwear by Le Perla for men now, too. For more information here in San Diego call 619-692-9100 at Neiman Marcus in Fashion Valley Mall look on-line for the latest swimwear line at www.laperla.com. Remember to think satin, silky and sexy for that perfect day under the sun.

This story originally appeared in FINE Magazine, June 2011 issue as a cover featured fashion story written by Machel. She has been writing for FINE Magazine for three years.

http://www.finehomesandliving.com/view-magazine-june/

Lilly Pulitzer feature for FINE

FINE MAGAZINE FEATURE on Lilly Pulitzer

With the arrival of spring, so orchestrates the season’s fashion palate feting the designs of floral prints and bright colors – inspired, of course, by nature’s ability to simply rejuvenate and renew. Embracing this very notion, Lilly Pulitzer has for more than 50 years delighted wardrobes and fashion-minded clients with her bold, effervescent prints and fashion sense. The iconic brand has since expanded its clothing collections for women, men and children, to also include personal accessories, furniture and bedding, stationary and gifts, fragrances, as well as the recent launch of a preppy bridal selection.

From splashes of hot pinks, greens and blues, to smashing floral patterns and lace overlays, Lilly Pulitzer celebrates life as art with audacious and forward-thinking designs; as a result, she challenges us not only to be bold in our attire, but to savor the everyday joys and comforts of living. Maybe that is why her story feels so much like a movie, discovering not only her early beginnings in the fashion industry, but the very passion and energy that has remained at the forefront of the brand’s forward motion. An inspiring tale worth sharing, one might be surprised by this inside look at Lilly Pulitzer’s life in review.

A socialite from New York, it is only befitting that Lilly Lee — her nickname — was destined to become an icon in the industry. In 1951, Lilly eloped and headed south to Palm Beach, Florida with her husband, Peter Pulitzer – the grandson of Joseph Pulitzer Publishing. Owning several orange grove stands, Lilly rightfully opened a juice stand on Via Mizner, now considered historic Palm   Beach. While fresh squeezed juice seemed like a natural fit, it was the orange juice stains in her clothing that sparked an idea; a sleeveless dress with bright colorful patterns to conceal the stains was thus created. What turned out to be a temporary fix to ‘orange juiced’ clothing resulted in the beginnings of Lilly Pulitzer’s first fashion design, the “Classic Shift Dress.” As the legend goes, Lilly’s juice clientele took notice of her new prints, complimenting and inquiring about her daily attire; and after selling a few dresses, her juice-making days soon came to an end. Lilly then began focusing on designing and selling her bold, beautiful clothing line to the public.

Jackie Kennedy wearing Lilly Pulitzer

Featured in Life Magazine, First Lady Jackie Kennedy – a former classmate of Lilly’s – was one of the first celebrities to wear the ‘Classic Shift Dress’; the very dress that had originally concealed orange juice stains, had become a fashion sensation. While our muse can sometimes be hidden by circumstance and time, Lilly had the fortitude and creativity to make her mark, without wavering or compromising her bold colorful designs.

Over the course of the next three decades, Lilly Pulitzer’s popularity and repertoire within the industry was on the rise; even noted in the 1980 “Official Preppy Handbook,” featuring a “Lilly Dress” as a must-have. One can only imagine how clients and the world of fashion reacted when Lilly Pulitzer decided to retire and shut down her entire clothing operation in 1984. After years of cheering closets and inspiring us with color, the fashion icon was ready for a Florida retreat in Palm Beach with her family. But the story doesn’t end there.

Lucky for us, Lilly decided to sell her trademark in 1993; and at a trade-show, two businessmen from Pennsylvania — Scott Beaumont and James Bradbeer Jr. — said they had that “A-ha! Moment,” when they saw the trademark for sale. They decided to branch off from their current venture with another retail store and re-launch the famous clothing line on their own; currently accounting for more than 75 Signature stores nationwide. Lilly Pulitzer has remained a brand consultant to this today.

No one combines flowers, fashion, and the Florida lifestyle better than Lilly Pulitzer. This spring, the blossoming icon continues a yearlong celebration of ‘Lilly Loves the Arts’; after all, Lilly Pulitzer’s hand-designed prints are themselves works of art. But this season, the print team comprised of Lilly artists gives a nod of appreciation to various forms of fine art. The results are a beautiful array of vibrant colorful prints reflecting influence from pop art to impressionism, and even block printing.

A sun-kissed moment can happen for all of us, just as it did for Lilly Pulitzer. If it seems too dreamy for this day and age, Southern California residents can at least benefit by wearing her classic designs year-round – a perfect compliment to our casual coastal lifestyle and eternal sunshine.

Your idyllic colors leave us feeling lovely in the Golden  State – Thanks, Lilly Pulitzer.

Lilly Pulitzer lillypulitzer.com

Check out orginal story linked on FINE’s website: http://www.finehomesandliving.com/March-2011/FINE-Fashion-by-Lilly-Pultizer/

7007 Friars Road, Suite 343, San Diego 619.491.0050

“Machel’s Ranch” Rancho Santa Fe News

Machel’s Ranch

Newspaper Columnist, Machel Penn Shull writes bi-weekly for The Rancho Santa Fe News in Rancho Santa Fe California, USA

An Important Speech, a local engagement and exciting events in Rancho Santa Fe

Lately, my world has been slightly tilted…almost sideways really.

What happens when you reach your dreams, then what? Well, I have been thinking about that. I’m a bit of an analyzer, a thinker, and maybe I ponder things too much sometimes. I tend to be somber during these times. I retreat within my own skin and turn to running as a means to figure out this inner searching that has me staring at the world at an angle that’s not upright. With much reflection can come understanding, meaning, drive of why we are here on this planet. It’s okay to question your motives and your meaning in this world. We should check in with ourselves to find out what makes us tick inside or rather what is our ultimate purpose.

I recently just watched “The King’s Speech.” (Yes, I’m a little behind on this amazing film.) The message I took from it seemed to be an important one: influence. One man influenced a King that in turn inspired a nation. One friendship changed not only two lives, but radically a country and a legacy. When we least expect it, we could find ourselves in a moment like that. Our influence can help shape and change our own lives, too. So why not be the best person you can be each day? What I am learning as I tread into my early forties, is who we are as a person truly counts. So tomorrow when you wake up, try to be more upbeat than normal. Speak only kind words. Don’t let the jadedness of this world affect how you act with those you may come in contact with or whom you love. Speak with confidence, grace and hope. Remember, your supportive words might be the turning point for someone else. So chin up, be happy and watch the world welcome you with a smile.

Around Town

Meredith MacDonald celebrates Cici Whitney's patent at Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe.

Cici Whitney is a friend of mine. I do believe if you recall last column I introduced her separately, and said I would be sharing some exciting news with you this week regarding her recent achievement. Her daughter Meredith is the one of the top five women in my column that I currently write about regularly. Our sons met in a Gymboree eleven years ago, and now I am sharing the fabulous news that Cici has her own patent that will be one of the hottest must-have items on your Christmas gift list. You would think being a retired teacher, raising a beautiful family and being married to a judge in Newport Beach would be enough, but Cici is still dreaming and reaching for the moon. Well, I just learned that she has the patent on a gift card that will now show the amount left on it, after using it for the gift purchase. Seems obvious, right? Well, Cici has the patent, so, looks like she may be having a hoot celebrating next Christmas. We’ll have to do a Mille Fleurs celebration for sure. Congratulations Cici! Thank-you, for always being so kind to my family and me.

            On March 2^nd, Dr. Seuss rang in his birthday in heaven as “The Lorax’ movie was released. I just happened to be working at the one gallery in La Jolla that sells his “Secret Art.” What is exciting about his art work is the appreciation value. Starting at a cool $1695.00, Dr. Seuss’s Secret Art brings in over $20,000 for certain rare and sold out pieces. I must say that’s quite an investment. But as they say in the art world, “You buy it because you love it, right?” Well, with numbers like that, I can see why collectors flock to our gallery when the newest edition comes out. Here is a photo of one of my clients that attended the event, Annie and Taka Kiyoizumi. Anne is opening a new business this spring and I look forward to sharing that information with you, too.

On March 9^th and 10^th, Ranch resident Lauren Sorge made it to state finals in speech and in dramatic interpretation as a junior representing Santa Fe Christian High School. Augustus Garcia—Lauren’s speech and debate coach—is pictured here with the look of pride and excitement. Prior to last winter, Lauren had never participated in speech or drama until this semester until this semester at San Diego Imperial Valley Speech League State Qualifying Tournament at Carlsbad High School. Competing with 367 of San Diego/Imperial County high school’s top speech and debate students, Lauren placed fourth in Dramatic Interpretation and third in speech and debate. It just goes to show you, with hard work, determination, you can still begin a dream at any stage of the game. Congratulations Lauren!

On March 14^th, I ran into Virginia Dent at one of my favorite shops and found out some exciting news. Her son, Jeffrey McCartney of Encinitas will be marrying Anne Podgorski of Carlsbad, on the twenty-fourth of March.  Virginia shared with me that the young couple met while attending San Dieguito Academy High School in 2005, and became engaged in May 2011 in Yosemite National Park. Annie is presently a graduate student at University of Davis, California in Civil Engineering, and Jeff is a Digital Media Artist in Irvine, CA. The wedding will be held at a church in Carlsbad that weekend. How romantic and special! Virginia is a well known realtor in North County and is married to Willie Dent from Kiwi Audio Visual.

SAVE THE DATE: I received some exciting news from Brian D. Guiltinan, Chief Executive Officer of The Guiltinan Group in Rancho Santa Fe. On March 24^th, Guiltinan Group is partnering with the Seal and NSW Family Foundations Fundraiser for the Seal and NSW Family Foundations. The event will be held behind the exclusive gates at community at The Del Mar Country Club. Congressman Brian Bilbray will be there, along with Mr. and Mrs. T. Boone Pickens, and the actors from the movie “Act of Valor.” To reserve your tickets, call Mari Stuart at 760.212.5635 or by email at Maristuart3@gmail.com.  Mark this one for your calendar!

Starry Night is one of my favorite paintings~

As an avid lover of Van Gogh’s work, it should only seem befitting to want to paint his beautiful masterpieces…or at least try to in my spare time. Here is my reproduction of Starry Night.  Here are some beautiful inspirational quotes by Van Gogh, too:  “It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.”