“Machel’s Ranch” February 2012 column “Pick More Daisies & Celebrate Your Birthday Always.”

“Machel’s Ranch”

“Pick More Daisies and Celebrate Your Birthday Always”

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

By the time you read this I will be forty-one years old. Since my last column, Whitney Houston Died. Starting last year—right right before my birthday—I  become incredibly nostalgic for a good friend that is no longer here. The pop star’s death reminded me of the person I missed. You know, how events can trigger past wounds to resurface…death is not easy.  Life continues to go on, change, and  fill the gaps left behind of those that leave us. Their impact on us will never be removed. The photos that were snapped will always remain the same. We can take those memories with us and keep them close to our heart. Choose to remember all of the joy they brought to us, even after they are gone. We must continue to celebrate their memory.

          We may not like what happens. In fact, it might be quite painful. What is important is how we let this event shape us and ultimately effect us. My favorite philosopher, which I often mention in my column is late Norman Vincent Peale. One of my favorite lessons I learned from reading  his books was this one suggestion: “Seek gifts inside your problems.” Inside each challenge is an important gift that can change our circumstances with dynamic proportions. Life can be difficult when dealing with grief and loss So, it is up to us to find our souls, ourselves and inside the  battle for recovery. Dare to find the joy even when the ‘signs’ may seem wrong, life seems awry and don’t forget to pick a few more daisies along the way. Be joyful for it all and let the memories carry us through during our darkest moments. With that said, I don’t have a problem with telling you I am thrilled to turn forty-one, celebrate and feel all that life can bring. Thanks again, for reading my column each week.
AROUND TOWN
On February 10th, I received an email from Lonnie, the sweet woman that we adopted my two new kittens from after my cat had died around Christmas time. With new energy and excitement, these beautiful kittens have brought much joy and love to my family. Lonnie now has new kittens that are ready to adopt. Here kittens have had their shots, have been vaccinated and are also micro-chipped. For a price that is average to adopting at a shelter, these cutie pies are rescued, too. Here is beautiful photo of the two kittens—Sophie and Lily—that I adopted from Lonnie. To find the photos of the kittens available, just look up “Fur.Ever  San Diego” and you will find the photos of the new kittens that need a home. Here is Lonnie’s number, too: (858)-731-6059. We just are so happy with our new babies!
On February 11th, The Auxiliary of Seacrest Village Retirement Communities celebrated  with their 34th Annual Gala, “Magical Moments,” at Estancia La Jolla Hotel. This event raises a significant amount of money for the resident assistance fund for the retirement community of Seacrest Village.  Here are some wonderful photos from this amazing fundraising event for the Bloch and the Levine families. Thank-you, Alyssa Law for sharing these photos with “Machel’s Ranch” and the Rancho Santa Fe News. For more information on Seacrest Village, here is their website: www.seacrestvillage.org.
On February 13th, “Ski Week” started for Rancho Santa Fe students and others in the San Diego weekend. For the holiday week, I took Jackson and a couple of his friends to a fabulous place nearby in Escondido. The rain did not detour us! What fun these boys had at Mr. Paint Ball USA, located right near Wohlford Lake. Here is a great shot of  Brett Vitale, James Coit and Jackson Tuck suited up in their paintball gear that day. If  you are looking for a fun excursion, this is a exciting way to spend the day—especially if  you have boys! Here is their website for more information on this paintballing location: www.mrpaintballusa.com.  Thanks Elise and Lori for letting me take the boys that day. We all really enjoyed it.
On February 14th, When lovers and friends celebrated Valentine’s and love I caught up with Sheila Malek, one of my very first clients when I used to work in advertising in the newspaper industry. Last year she relocated her business Ellie’s Tailoring & Best Formal Wear in Encinitas to a fabulous new location, which is right by Henry’s Market off of Encinitas Blvd. Sheila is a wonderful person that has many happy customers that always come back to her shop because she does such an excellent work and has such a personal relationship with each of her clients. Here is gorgeous photo of Sheila with her family during the Week of Love. If you need any tailoring or need to rent a tux for prom, here is the place to go: www.bestformalwearsd.com.
On February 18th, I stopped by Stumps Market in the Ranch to pick-up two delicious sandwiches made fresh from their deli department. A little tip from me if you love their deli, call ahead so you don’t have to wait and they are ready when you arrive. I have always loved the staff there and the owners, Dirk and Matt. I am sure if you live in the Ranch, you may be one of their many customers, too. To my delight, I ran into Allison Hess, Avalon and Gillian Chaffer selling the infamous-must-have-once-a-year-so-do-stock-up Girl Scout cookies. Here is a photo of the three of them that day, nestled in between the post off ice and Stumps. They were representing Girl Scout Troop #1106. Thanks so much for the cookie girls. You made my day!
If you have a story you would like to share with Machel, you can contact her at mpenn@coastnewsgroup.com.
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“Machel’s Ranch” The Rancho Santa Fe News-February column

“Machel’s Ranch”
“Sunshine fills Rancho Santa Fe with Inspiration and Parties”
          How do you keep yourself inspired everyday? Do you ever get up and think, “This is it, same thing as yesterday. How long will life continue on with this same routine?” Yes, life can be boring, methodical and sometimes just plain “hum-drum.” What do we do when this happens? Do you decide to pity yourself? Feel like life is predictable and what is the point? I will admit, the reason I am writing this is because I encountered these feelings this week. Yes, I too, can find the eucalyptus trees and the design of the perfect landscape in California just a bit on the blah side. While winter is happening elsewhere in the world, we constantly blessed with pretty amazing weather. No reason to whine about that, right?             Well, one must hibernate, recharge, regroup, reinvent themselves. Even though there are moments that can eclipse us that make us feel bored, we must remind ourselves of each and every blessing. I recently was looking through some of my photos of and thought, These pictures show a beautiful life.” I soon realized that although it’s tempting to indulge in idleness, we must stop ourselves from this pitfall. The challenge is to remain upbeat, youthful and hopeful with each new day. We may think we know what’s going to happen and that we’ve got it all figured out. However, life still remains a mystery…just like the nature of  true love. With the “Month of Love” upon us, I am some fun events in and around the Ranch. Happy Valentine’s Day Rancho Santa Fe!
Around Town
            On January 28th, Karian Forsyth, one of my top five women I love to feature in “Machel’s Ranch” held her first 2012 monthly spa party in The Crosby. Under a hot Saturday afternoon, these ladies enjoyed fine pampering and good company and excellent food that day. I turned out to be the unlucky one that last minute was unable to make do to some unexpected turn in events, which prohibited me from indulging with some of my favorite friends. Here is a stolen moment from that day that shows these women making the most of their time by sharing their souls and time with each other. How wonderful.
            On January 30th I received some exciting news about one my favorite friends’ family members. Claude Whitney—a superior judge in Orange County for over 30 years—turned eighty-one old on a fabulous Sunday with his loved ones. Talking about making life fun and worth living, Claude is a black diamond skier that “Ski’s for Free” since he is over seventy years old. From Skiing in Aspen, Telluride and Deer Valley nothing is going to slow down Claude Whitney. Here is a beautiful photo of him surrounded by his wife and loved ones,  Happy Birthday, Claude. Meredith MacDonald is the very proud step daughter of Claude Whitney.
            On February 1st, I stepped into my husband’s shoes and helped out at Lemon Twist—the flower shop/fruit-stand in the Ranch across from Cielo. While, the sunny day brought in steady customers, I helped organize and figure out new exciting gifts for Valentine’s Day for locals in the Ranch. Lemon Twist is famously known for the delicious chocolate covered strawberries, which is a mouth-watering pleasing gift for any loved one. But did you know Lemon Twist is also a gift/floral shop with specialty items, gift baskets, orchids, caramel chocolate popcorn, and beautiful bouquets? For any questions or to call for your order in advance, please call (858)756-0826. Ask about the “special” for chocolate covered strawberries, too. I will be there all day on Valentine’s Day. Stop in and see us. I will have my camera to capture this wonderful holiday we love to celebrate at Lemon Twist.
            On February 2nd, I stopped in at my favorite restaurant in Rancho Santa Fe—Mille Fleurs. If you have read my column over the years then you know that this restaurant has always had a special place in my world. From amazing birthday parties, to summer parties, I have enjoyed the ambience, the food, the staff at the best French restaurant in Southern California. I met briefly with Chef Martin Woesle. Chef Martin has been the chef at Mille Fleurs for over 27 years. I find out the ‘skinny’ on Valentine’s Day at Mille Fleurs. Check out www.millefleurs.com for details for this amazing special going on  that if you want to woo your loved one, Mille Fleurs is the place to be: (858) 756-3085.
            On February 3rd, I ventured to La Jolla to Legends Gallery where I work part-time weekly, which I absolutely love. Art has been one of my passions and obsessions most of my life. So when I met Roree Mayhew, the director of Legends, a few months ago, you can just imagine me doing a little “Audrey Hepburn” smile all the way to my car parked a couple of blocks away, ironically next to a chapel. (Prayers do work wonders you know.) A few months later, I am excited to be selling art and meeting the artists there. On that note, Joelle Blouin—a top selling Canadian artist from Quebec City has risen to quick acclaim in the art world. Only 26 years old,  Joelle has gone from one gallery to seven in under one year. Her bold colorful paintings of city skylines are magnificent. Here is a link to her website to see some of her other work, or you can always contact me directly to for more information on her paintings: www.joelleblouin.com.
On February 5th, I attended Karian and Tom’s Super Bowl party in the Crosby. What can I say? These photos speak for themselves. Here are two group shots of the guests that came in high style for one of America’s favorite past times.
SAVE THE DATE On Thursday February 16th, don’t miss out on a must attend Fashion event happening in La Jolla. San Diego Food Bank’s Chris Carter was kind enough to invite me to this fabulous day at the Second Annual “Fashion Plates” Luncheon and fashion show designed by TV personality, Leonard Simpson. The silent auctions starts at 10:30 sharp, which is followed by the luncheon and fashion show. This event will be held at the Hyatt Regency in La Jolla. To reserve your tickets, please contact Megan Mills at (858) 863-5121 or visit their website at  www.sandiegofoodbank.org.
If you have a story you would like to share, please feel free to contact Machel at mpenn@coastnewsgroup.com
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Rancho Santa Fe’s “Machel’s Ranch.” Five Women Worth Talking About

 

Machel’s Ranch
“Five Women Worth Talking About in Rancho Santa Fe”
            In January of 2008, the rain seemed like a ominous sign to go home.. Sitting at a traffic light in Encinitas, while the green arrow flashed on my dashboard, I had the distinct feeling that if I didn’t make that appointment, I might be missing out on a golden opportunity. That meeting just happened to be with the publisher of The Rancho Santa Fe News. Luckily, my instincts serve me well. I remember sitting with Jim Kydd discussing my column. We bounced ideas back and forth to each other, and he liked the idea and wanted to run with column, if the editor approved.        As you might have guessed, two weeks later, “Machel’s Ranch” appeared in next issue. and I’ve been sharing stories with you ever since that almost ill-fated rainstorm moment. I’ll never know what might have happened if I hadn’t made it. I do know that sometimes you can’t make up a for moment and if you miss it, it’s gone for good. Seven years in Hollywood taught me that lesson all too well.
            Four years later and many things  have changed with time but there are a few ‘constants’ that have stayed the same, like in my column for example—my featured regulars. These women have been making an appearance in “Machel’s Ranch” since the beginning. After really thinking about it, I figured out Rancho Santa Fe has the making of its own  reality show that doesn’t have anything to do with the word “desperate.” This town is full of winners, families, moms and moguls. And, only the eucalyptus tree have privy to the secrets lives of some of the Ranch locals, unless you happened to be a girl with a camera and a pen and paper to document these happenings. After four years of  “Machel’s Ranch,” I am introducing the cast of these chic women that bring verve and flavor to the inside pages of the Rancho Santa Fe News.
4th Anniversary “Around Town”
My first friend in San Diego: Jill SorgeIn 1999, I met Jill Sorge. Big, fat and pregnant, I wasn’t one of those beautiful skinny pregnant women that could show a bit of their mid-drift with a black pair of leggings. Due to some complications I ended up looking more like a linebacker in a jean jumper that lacked the sophistication I witnessed at the market in the Ranch. Needless to say I was horrified. Just when I thought fatness and loneliness had taken me down the black hole, I met Ranch resident, Jill Sorge at a Christmas party. A former model and soap opera actress, Jill and I hit it off immediately. Her beautiful face, and kind words of “Don’t worry, you lose the weight,” helped me see the light and new beginnings. Jill had had three kids and looked fabulous. If she can do it, I can, too, type attitude bonded us together for life. Jill has been appearing in this column from the beginning. From her many activities associated to Santa Fe Christian—all three of her children go there—and other events she invites me as her guest, Jill’s schedule to running to homes in San Diego could give any of these featured reality show regulars a run for their money. A consummate friend and an amazing human being, God answered a prayer when I met Jill.
In 2001, I met Meredith MacDonald at a Gymboree class in Solana Beach. As each mom went around in the baby circle describing their day, when Meredith spoke up about her wants and needs, “I can’t wait for my baby to go to sleep and have some fun again.” You could say my ears perked up immediately. Me, too, I thought. Well since then, Meredith and I have had some fun times, laughs and silly moments. With a personality like Elizabeth Taylor, you know the type that attract the attention when they enter the room, you could say being friends with Meredith was like being back in Hollywood again. Every where we went in the Ranch life felt grandiose and exciting. Always dressed impeccable and wearing Chanel 5 accentuate with the perfect Prada bag with a million dollar smile, Meredith MacDonald could be an instant hit on any television show.
In 2005, I met Krista Lafferty, while working in the newspaper publishing business. thirteen years younger than me, you wouldn’t immediately pair us together. Krista tall slender build and can-do attitude has always made her a ‘force to be reckoned with’ in personal and professional settings. I was immediately drawn to her ambitiousness and dedication the the newspaper industry. Krista has been featured in “Machel’s Ranch” as one my closest friends and co-workers around town. From Thyme in the Ranch lunches to our Mille Fleurs moment, Krista’s youth and vibrant attributes have added much delight to these pages and excitement along the way. At my bridal shower, I credited Krista for helping me meet my husband, Robin. I was with her when we met at Mille Fleurs in 2006.
In 2006, I met Karian Forsyth at Mille Fleurs with her husband Tom. I can still remember thinking, “Who is that glamorous couple out on the patio?” Well you could say that Karian and I became fast friends. From her impeccable style to her powerhouse personality, Karian Forsyth when you meet her gives you the feeling she stepped off a chartered jet from Aspen and you can’t wait to find out what’s been going on in her glamorous world. The featured spa parties that have become one of my favorites in Rancho Santa Fe are hosted by Karian at her house in The Crosby. Rumor has it around town that she recently turned down Matchmaking reality show because her life is already filled to the brim. Karian Forsyth has been a ‘constant’ since the very beginning of “Machel’s Ranch.”
In 2008, I met Elaine Gallagher at Delicias. I remember thinking, “Wow a beautiful blonde with a perfect smile, who is she?”  Well, we soon became friends. I do think I pursued Elaine you could say. Her beauty is actually second to her kind spirit and good heart-warming soul. Her stories have added heart and glamour to these pages. As a savvy real estate agent—Gallagher & Gallagher—and a mother of a successful son that directs movies in Hollywood, Elaine makes it all look so easy, with upbeat attitude and sweet soul.
Thank-you readers for reading “Machel’s Ranch.” You never know what’s going to happen in the next two weeks in Rancho Santa Fe.  Be ready, I’ve got my camera!
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“The Help” A Must Read even if you have already seen the movie

Book Review of “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett

"The Help" by Kathryn Stockett

http://www.kathrynstockett.com/

I watched the movie first, which usually it is the other way around. With that being said, you would think that this would be not as exciting since I know what happens. And, yes, I loved the movie. I Loooved it.  (Do forgive on the extra o’s in love. Sometimes in print, a little help brings life words!)However, the book is absolutely amazing. The pace, the characters, the sense of urgency, the food, the plot. Genius. Some things are worth fighting for in this life.
I am thrilled Kathryn Stockett never gave up after 60 rejections and believed in her story. Some stories are born into this world through a voice,a person, a moment, an inspiration just like this one. A story about meanness, kindness and the power of human beings standing up together to defeat an oppressive world. http://www.more.com/kathryn-stockett-help-best-seller
I hope she writes many more to come. What I loved also in the book was her personal account of her private life and what originally inspired her soul to write this book.
With Four Academy Oscar nominations, how exciting for Kathryn Stockett to rocket to the moon on her soulful and “must never give up attitude.” She is an exemplary role model for us all.
Please read this book. It’s not one to skip.

Why is this book amazing? Character development, voice, and plot. The characters had something to lose and gain in the weaving of the story. With high stakes, how can you put that down? What do you have to lose if you stop reading  ”The Help,” by Kathryn Stockett?

Everything!

What drives a reader to read? The must knowing the conclusion to their character’s ending in the novel.

Here is one of the other jackets of the book before it was a movie:

http://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/60-rejection-letters-didnt-stop-kathryn-stockett-and-her-bestseller-the-help

In her words:  Kathryn Stockett: ‘I will never truly understand what it felt like to be a black woman in the South.’

Well, this may be true, but Kathryn Stockett does exactly that in this amazing story women working together on their own personal, private mission to be known and understood in this fictional tale of “The Help.”

Agent: Susan Ramer at Don Congdon

Don Congdon Associates

156 5th Ave # 823, New York, NY

THE HELP

By Kathryn Stockett

451 pages. Amy Einhorn Books/G. P. Putnam’s Sons. $24.95.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/19/books/19masl.html

Berkley Books Trade Paperback $16.00

I am rooting for “The Help.” For best bicture.  Way to be tenacious and brilliant Kathryn Stockett. You are an inspiration to me and any writer that loves books and believes in never give up on their dreams.

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Rancho Santa Fe News, “Machel’s Ranch” January 2012 ~ Adopt a Pet and Stay healthy this year

“Machel’s Ranch”

            On New Year’s Eve, my beloved kitty died. What a devastating way to start the New Year of 2012. With much reflection and love for my cat that I have had for 8 years, I must tell you this moment hurt deeply, but also helped me realize the beauty in our every day gifts. My son, husband—plus my family was in town—grieved for the loss of our pet. We felt lucky to have her for as long as we did. This experience was once again a reminder to me how precious time and life is each day.  This was unexpected.

            What I can tell you as a farm girl from Missouri? My kitty Audrey had a tremendous life. I do know that I never took her for granted. I tried extra hard to always let her know how much she was loved by me. Having many kitties over the years, you can only guess that this is a familiar feeling (grieving when they die) that I have adjusted to with time. If you are a pet owner, than I am sure you know what it feels like to lose your beloved animal. With that being said, we have adopted a rescue kitty that has been saved from a “high kill” shelter. What I have learned from this traumatic week is there are so many animals out there that need a home. Please adopt an animal this year in 2012. If you can’t do that because you already have too many pets, please donate to an animal rescue shelter. Life is gift and so was my beautiful kitty, Audrey. Make time this year in 2012 to give love to an animal that will also fill your life with much joy and comfort. Happy New Year Rancho Santa Fe. I adopted my kitty from a wonderful woman named Lonnie that devotes much of her life to saving animals. Here is her contact information: Fur.ever@yahoo.com. Thanks Lonnie for being a ‘real live angel’ to animals in need.

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

            On December 24th, Rancho Santa Fe sparkled under the night sky. With the downtown area festive with holiday lights and all of the restaurants, retailers and banks decorated for Christmas, who needed snow? Not us, anyway. This was the first Christmas in awhile I stayed in town for the holidays. Ed and Dottie McCrink have been Ranch residents for many decades. Each Christmas the McCrink siblings all come in town for the holidays. Here is a wonderful photo of Laurel McCrink with sister Katie Shull, along with Violli and Trudi. They look fabulous in their red festive attire, don’t they?
        On December 26th, I decided to capture the beauty of winter in Rancho Santa Fe. I pulled over (I do this often and it drives my son nuts!) by my son’s school to walk the trails near the Rancho Santa Fe golf course. The the naked blue sky filled the air with perfection, as the autumn colors of reds and yellows shined in the bright sunlight. The walking trail had peaks of light beaming across the leaves, as I strolled next to the golf course photographing the trees. Here is one photo from that day. The trees look beautiful in the Ranch right now.  This is also an excellent way to stay in shape; take a two mile walk three times a week. Don’t forget to make time for yourself in the New Year. I do!   
   

Real Estate Agent Priscilla Wood with cuddly friend. One of Rancho Santa Fe's premier Real Estate agents.

 On December 30th, My sister’s family stopped in to Legends Gallery in La Jolla to see me. If you haven’t heard, I work part-time as a fine art consultant in La Jolla. Do you need art? We sell Rockwell, Chagall, Miro, Dr. Seuss, Mackenzie Thorpe and De La Nuez to mame just a few of the artists we carry. Here is a wonderful photograph from that day.         

On January 3rd, I connected with a girlfriend of mine, Priscilla Wood. Do you know Priscilla? You may recognize Priscilla from my column before. She is a co-leader in the SMARTY division in the San Diego area, an entrepreneurial group for women. I just found out that Priscilla enjoyed a glorious hike up to the Hollywood sign on New Years Day and she said it was absolutely breathtaking. What you may already know is Priscilla is part of the Mike Taylor Real Estate Group in Rancho Santa Fe. Do you need to find a listing? Priscilla is one of the sharpest Real Estate Agents in town. She is one to watch in 2012. Here is her website information: www.Priscillawood.com. I am looking forward to going to my first SMARTY event this month. I will have to fill you in on the details beginning of next month.
SAVE THE DATE: Fresh Start Surgical Gifts 20th Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament for Kids will be at the Morgan Run Golf Course on March 18th and 19th this year. Here is an incredible figure from Fresh Start—in 2011 provided 1,473 medical treatments to children that need our help with changing their life. If you would like to donate to this wonderful organization, please visit their website at www.freshstart.org. Here is a group shot from last year’s celebrity event in Rancho Santa Fe.
If you would like to contact Machel regarding a stoy you would like to share with her readers, email her at machel@coastnewsgroup.com
 

Fresh Start Celebrity Golf Tournament.

 

Machel has been writing stories and covering social events in Rancho Santa Fe since 2008. Her column is featured by-weekly in Rancho Santa Fe Newspaper, which is published by Jim Kydd.  If you are looking to advertise in this newspaper, contact Krista Lafferty at  Klafferty@coastnewsgroup.com. 
 
Newspaper Columnist, Machel Penn Shull writes bi-weekly for The Rancho Santa Fe News in Rancho Santa Fe California, USARancho Santa Fe News, “Machel’s Ranch” is a newspaper column that Machel Penn Shull writes about Rancho Santa Fe, California  USA. With over 10,000 in distribution, you can pick up your copy in the green newspaper bins in The Ranch.“Machel’s Ranch” “Adopt a an Animal and Stay Healthy in 2012″      
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Coffee or Tea? by Machel Penn Shull~ FINE Magazine, January 2012

FINE Magazine January 2012, "Tea Time in San Diego" by Machel Penn Shull
FINE Magazine January 2012, “Tea Time in San Diego” by Machel Penn Shull

Coffee or Tea? That lately seems to be the question for many. If you are a lover of both like me than the idea is to choose when and where for your daily ritual for one or for both. Coffee is the way I start of my day, but tea is my afternoon delight.

Here in San Diego most know of all of the fabulous choices when it comes to coffee shops like Coffee Bean, Peets, or Starbucks, but what about fabulous Tea Houses? Do you know where to find them?
 Click to read article in full: http://www.finehomesandliving.com/January-2012/Tea-Time-in-San-Diego/
If not, you will definitely want to read my latest article for FINE Magazine. Fine Luxury Magazine is distributed to over 25,000 in print in the Southern California region, including Palm Springs, Orange County, Los Angeles and San Diego.
 
Over 300, 000 digital print magazines are in circulation as well. 2012 marks my third years as one of their main monthly featured writers.
 If you are looking to place a real estate ad or promote your business in Southern California, check out their website for more advertising details: http://www.finehomesandliving.com/Advertise/
 
Here are some wonderful statistics and links on the benefits of drinking tea and coffee:
 http://www.theolivepress.es/spain-news/2012/01/13/coffee-fights-womb-cancer/
 
http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/benefit_of_drinking_green_tea
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Echoes by Maeve Binchy

A fabulous book~

Wow. I just started reading Maeve Binchy again. A masterful storyteller. She tells the most amazing dramas of just normal people set usually in the back drop of Ireland somewhere. This book was so vivid. I hated to end it, yet could not read this book fast enough. Page turner. And, Clare–the main character reminded me slightly of Jane Eyre, that sort of fierce determination that made you love her and root victoriously for her character, while the story unfolds around her. Brilliant. My favorite book of her thus far. Close second-”Tara Road.”

~Originally published this review on Goodreads earlier in 2011.

 

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The Velveteen Soul

velveteen soul

Sometimes ‘being honest’ just gets in the way of truth. Do you know what I mean by that? I’m sure you had those moments, too. Placating others to keep life at an even tempo. Why discuss hard issues if we can just keep a smile on our face? Let me sum it up for you. Life is not meant to be a tea party,with pleasantries and thin cucumber sandwiches.

 I don’t want to get into any specifics, but this situation has compelled my inner warrior to share with you something deeper with you this week than my lighter write on skinny models. An anguish or a hurt can remind us of what we lost along the way in our own personal journey, especially when you love your friend. I turn inward and become reflective, which usually affects my dreams when I am sleeping.

Like last night, I dreamt of the past. I remembered how last year my Great Aunt Leota died on the same day as my Grandma Lula did. When I awoke, I thought about loved ones that I have lost. I thought about others that have lost family members recently, too. I thought about all of these deeper issues we hate to feel and touch. But life does not always turn out the way we had hoped.  With that being said, I reach out to my readers and say only this:

Dare to be real to someone that matters to you!  Share your heart and soul with ordinary people, like the homeless you see, give them only a dollar if you have one if and you have less, at least acknowledge their presence.

I say dive into the deep blue sea. Sink beneath the murky water of you subconscious and visit what you have buried there. Seek you weakness, your anger, your muse, your nemesis, you battleground…Go there and fight. Make life anything but boring. Dream of the hidden things in-between. Reach out into the darkness and seek and if there is no response keep reaching until you pull yourself through to the other side, to the place you can feel in your heart, you can see, you can touch, you can be, dare to pull yourself to the other side without the aid of anyone. What I speak of deals with the battling of will and soul and mind converging into one moment that can exist then fade. I speak of real; I speak of that “Velveteen Rabbit” bunny.

I speak of soul.

Do something soulful and watch your world expand and open. Be free of judgment. Be free of what you might lose if you succeed. Be free to ask for more. Ask for more and receive.  When a fire comes and destroys a neighborhood it might take two or three years to rebuild but don’t give up hope. . .Grab this life and do what you can.  You have your very own story to write. If you don’t like the way it’s going, you can always change ‘plots’ midstream.

You can. Ask me I know. Be bold. Flutter around. Be vulnerable to at least one soul walking this planet. Live and spread joy everywhere. This life is in dire need of a soul to take the higher road.

This world is in need of you to be–real.

Originally published in The Rancho Santa Fe News–2010

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Coronado & Bid Time Return

"Bid Time Return" & "Somewhere in Time"

Did you know you can elope on Coronado Island for less than $1500.00? This includes the backdrop of the world famous Hotel Del in the background, along with rose petals sprinkled across the sand. Can you see it? The bride and groom, white wedding dress, black tux, saying “I do,” in one of the most romantic destinations just on the other side of the Coronado Bridge.

Sometimes we forget the best escapes are only a car ride away. This one, however, happens to be local. North County residents can become submerged in the “wealth triangle,” you know, La Jolla, Del Mar, and Rancho Santa Fe, while overlooking one of the finest jewels in the most southern point of California.

If you were to ask the residents of this quant sophisticated beach town with rich history and small town values if they felt left out, there would probably be a resounding sigh of relief that their prestigious community is still truly is a world unto itself.  The late, great novelist, Richard Matheson, knew this more than anyone when he chose the Hotel Del Coronado to reside in, while he penned one of the most beloved love stories, “Bid Time Return.”

This tragic love story is about a man that falls in love with a photograph of famous actress in the late 1800’s. He then manages against all odds to travels back in time, to whisper the words, “Is it you?”  If this sounds eerily familiar, it’s because this book’s title when adapted into a screenplay was changed to “Somewhere in Time.” The movie starred Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeves. Many do not know that Coronado Island’s timeless energy laid forth the foundation of this classic love story. There are sacred stories like this one scattered across the sands of Coronado Island.

 When searching for the answers, always seek the best. That’s exactly what Fine Magazine did when choosing Ruth Ann Fisher as the feature for Coronado’s quick Q. & A.  Q. When did you start Selling Real Estate in Coronado?
A.  I started selling real estate in 2000 after my husband was transferred here with the Navy.  I had previously worked in Florida with a mortgage bank handling their foreclosures and REO’s. 
Q.  How has last year’s recession affected the housing market on Coronado ?   A. The prices have obviously gone down but not to the extent of other communities.  Coronado has unique qualities that have helped us weather this economic storm.  With limited boundaries, great schools and a Mayberry charm, Coronado will always draw homeowners, second home buyers and investors.
Q.  What are the benefits to living on Coronado Island as apposed to San Diego ? A.  Besides what was written above, an incredible low crime rate.
Q. What encouraging words do you have for home buyers that are looking to invest in Coronado Island ?  A. If you have been considering a purchase in Coronado or have been waiting for the right time, Buy Now!  Prices are lower than they have been in many years. There is a good selection of homes available however, many of the buyers who have been on the fence have started to make moves since the first of the year and our inventory is starting to go down.

Q.  What would you say to entice a buyer to choose Coronado over let’s say Rancho Santa Fe or La Jolla ?
A. Coronado is a lifestyle choice.  It is a charming smaller coastal town just over the bridge from a metropolitan city with all it has to offer.  For commuters, we are 15 minutes, from the airport and a ferry ride from the train station.  Our family has even taken our bikes on the ferry and then caught the train to Santa Barbara for the weekend.  We also have parades on the 4th of July and at Christmas and we have concerts in the park each Sunday during the summer where everyone comes out and enjoys their picnic dinner with family, friends and neighbors.   To quote from the Wizard of Oz, “There’s no place like home”.  And, there’s no place like Coronado .

Thank-you Ruth, for sharing your thoughts with Fine Magazine. Just remember the next time you might need a ‘great romantic escape’ is only a skyline and a bridge away. To quote Richard Matheson, “Ah; a bridge ahead, “I’ll take it. I don’t care where it leads so long as it is away from this. Coronado says the sign. Driving straight into the sun…”

Originally published in FINE Magazine, November 2009

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Old Town San Diego “Bazaar Del Mundo”

Bazaar Del Mundo,  a hidden treasure in San Diego– Originally published in FINE Magazine in October 2009.

“Don’t be afraid of the rattlesnake in Southern Mexico,” was the opening line to a song at the Bazaar Del Mundo, Santa Fe Market Art show.  The Mexican band began to play flamenco dance music as I strolled between the isles at colorful arts and crafts exhibit on one of the last beautiful weekends in San Diego. I felt like I had traveled back in time, while I admired all of the Indian pottery, turquoise jewelry and other distinct Southwestern influenced artists.

Southern Californian residents sometimes forget to venture outside of their comfort zone. With the beach always the main attraction, it’s easy overlook the local ‘hidden jewels’ that exist just around the corner from where we live. For example, Bazaar Del Mundo marketplace is a wonderful way to spend time with a loved one or family member besides your typical day by the pool.

On this particular weekend, I skipped the crowded beach, crossed the street in Old Town San Diego and headed down Taylor Street. My little adventure let me to Bazaar Del Mundo, a beautiful marketplace located adjacent to the main square in Old Town.  The 22nd Annual Santa Fe Market was being held that day, which featured crafts and arts of Southwest and Native Americans. The courtyard came to life under the shaded trees as I admired all of the paintings, pottery and other distinctive hand crafted trinkets.

On one corner of the marketplace was an artist called, Desert Dreamer. His art captured beautiful desert photography, Spanish influenced settings. The next art booth exhibited Marie Barbera’s hand-painted Indian sculptures depicting their way of life. I captured one photo of an Indian Chief that stood tall and majestic among the other sculptures.  

Some of the artists included were the Navajo, Cherokee, Hopi, Pima, Isleta Pueblo and Santa Domingo Pueblo Indian tribes. Other artists there came from different parts of the United States, such as Arizona and New Mexico. I had no idea that I would find so much diversity and culture in one special corner near Old Town.

The next time you are planning your weekend, check-out this colorful marketplace called Bazaar Del Mundo. You never know what event you will find hidden beneath the shaded trees off of Taylor Street.

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© Copyright Machel Penn Shull

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