“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.

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 4^th 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

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 22^nd 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.

Rancho Santa Fe News, “Machel’s Ranch” column

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

I don’t want to write any wise suggestions for this year for the New Year. You don’t need them from me anyway. I’m not going to write about art, books or the Book Cellar. I have decided to spare you from all of that and share with my readers little signs that I always look for that inspire me during my day. Call me sappy, call me out there, but life’s too short not to have some fun in the process. It’s sort of like “Slug-bug” for grown-ups. Here are a few signs I often search for that I find a great deal of pizzazz from when they just happen spontaneously to me when I least expect them. I am sure you will see a correlation, so I will just start out with this line: “I have a thing for birds.”

            On December 17^th, Karian Forsyth invited her Spa Gals over to her house for some pampering with Holiday flair. Pedicures and manicures, massage or facial, all of the guest enjoyed their options, while dishing on the latest fashion trends, the best restaurants and what destination places are in. Which brings me to an important update in my column. Yes, the news is here. I have found out where Tom and Karian Forsyth flew off to for Tom’s birthday in December. I have it on good authority that the Forsyth’s boarded a private jet with Maggie and Gary Bobileff—two of my other favorite Ranch residents! Yes, the four of them made it to the Grand Cayman Island for an intimate celebration to one of the coolest Caribbean islands to visit. Here are two photos that capture living at it’s finest. One is of Karian looking glamorous in her pink studded blouse with Tom and the “Spa Party gals” from The Crosby. Hey, guess what? Life can be incredibly good sometimes, right?

Karian and Tom Forsyth on the Grand Cayman Island

The Rancho Santa Fe News, “Machel’s Ranch”

 A Marine Battalion Remembered this Christmas. Dedicated to my Father, William Ray Penn”

            While we worry about what to wear for our holiday party, somewhere out there is a wo

William Ray Penn &William Ray Penn Jr. William Ray Penn Sr. is a proud Marine that fought in the most decorated Marine Battalion ever in the history of the marines, due to one significant battle at Christmas time in 1966 in Vietnam.

man or man in uniform fighting for us to make sure we are able to celebrate freely. Meanwhile, someone has died for us to have this right. Families have grieved over the loss of their loved ones. It is important to remember these facts this season. We must remember those that have sacrificed their souls to make sure that we are still free. I wish for each brave American soldier much love and blessings. Without you, America would be lost. Without your devotion, pride and dedication, how might our country survive? Please, let us unite, stand proud as Americans and remember those who serve and the veterans of the United States this holiday season.

            On the other side of the Ranch, Violet MacDonald was opening her home to her family, which included one of her favorite granddaughter’s Reese MacDonald. Violet is an active member in the Garden Club here in town and has been featured on several occasion in San Diego Home and Garden Magazine for her own immaculate garden that surrounds her property in Rancho Santa Fe. I have also include a picture-perfect-photo of Holden and Meredith MacDonald, whom are also part of this clan here in the Ranch. Violet is very proud of her family! Thanks for sharing the holiday photos.

            On November 28^th, I we ventured out to Pauma Valley for some fresh air, and to enjoy my In-law’s ranch. As we droved down into the valley and the sun cascaded over the rolling hills, I found myself smiling from within…Could it be that the Ozark Mountains (where I am from in Missouri) exists out here in California? Well, who knew God’s country was just right around the corner? You would think that someone would alert the media to these things. It seems, I guess, one must discover ‘heaven on earth’ a little later in life. You could say that I’m definitely like Ava Gabor’s character in Green Acres:“Darling I love you, but give me Park Avenue.” I love both. But, trust me, take a drive out past Lake Wohlford one weekend and enter into a valley full of citrus, wild peacocks and avocados. You won’t regret it. Here is a photo I captured of a peacock casually hanging out on the rooftop that weekend.

            On December 2^nd, Karian and Tom Forsyth celebrated Tom’s birthday with many friends inside the exclusive gates of The Crosby. Robin and I are always thrilled to go their holiday party and this year was no exception. Unfortunately, my family came down with the flu that weekend, so I was only able to stop in briefly to snap a few photos for this week’s issue. Woe to the life of a working girl. (I’m semi-kidding.) Well, what can I tell you? The party was decked out with private waiters, a local musician playing, fine food and champagne flowing over the flute glasses. The guests—that I saw that arrived early—looked smashing in their glittery holiday attire. Oh the joys of the holiday spirit, holiday wonder and how wonderful to have a friend like Karian and Tom. Thanks, for always including me. I love you guys.

Magical Moments this Holiday Season, The Book Cellar, and An Important Mission

  “Machel’s Ranch” The latest happenings Around Town and Inspirational stories featured in the Rancho Santa Fe News

The RAncho Santa Fe News, located in Rancho Santa Fe, California

If you could go back in time and be a child again would you? I have often heard others ponder their childhood with much warm hearted memories. What was it about being young that seems elusive to us as we find ourselves in a wide open field in the midst of our lives? Could it be that we understand time better or rather recognize with age as we gaze back and remember who we once were? During the holiday season my childhood memories always come back to me, like a flickering images from a movie reel.

            I grew up on a farm near Springfield, Missouri.The winters were cold. The pond froze over and we would skate across it in our cowboy boots. Then we would watch our breath rise up to the white sky and blend in with the blanket of snow falling down on us below. The “Us” would be my brother, sister and me. We were pretty tight as kids. We built massive forts in the snow, played a tag game called chicken and fox over the icy pond. I never believed in Santa because we lived on a farm and I knew there was no way he could really fit inside a wood burning stove. We always watched “It was a Wonderful Life” and “Scrooge.” We had “Taffy Pulls!” Live moved slowly when I was young, and I didn’t know as a child that wishes and dreams can sometimes take you away from what you loved the most. So now each season, after the turkey has been served and as families are decorating their homes with mistletoe, I find myself remembering the young girl I was and early my beginnings. This holiday season, remember to look back, count your blessings and be thankful for each season. Sometimes we never know how magical our moments are until they are gone.

My childhood Christmas Memories of ice skating on a pond when we were young.

Around Town

CORRECTION: Well, my favorite book store in the whole wide world must hate me! Recently, I realized my serious gaffe after someone pointed out the name on my coffee cup, “Book Tales,” which most of you probably know is in Encinitas. That is a wonderful bookstore, too. However, my favorite bookstore that I try to frequent at least once a week exists just around the corner from the Rancho Santa Fe Library  is “The Book Cellar.” Please forgive! My only excuse is I write late night into the early hours of the evening and sometimes mistakes can happen when you do this. So for the record, if you would like to read and buy books in Rancho Santa Fe, “The Book Cellar” is a gem of place. What I do, is always donate the books back, when my room starts to take on too many stacks against the wall or they start falling of my night stand. Make sure you stop in this holiday season for a book as a gift. They have fabulous prices.  And, the quiet, still space between the rows of bookshelves just warms your soul.

During the first week of November, Dr. Michael and Lynne Skyhar stopped in at the Lemon Twist Gift & Produce Shop in Rancho Santa Fe. Lynne and Dr. Mike live in the area and were just so wonderful to meet right as dusk was setting across the valley behind the shop. We shared some quick conversation and they were kind enough to let me share this photo in my column that evening. I love meeting new people. Mike and Lynne were very gracious and kind. Thanks for stopping in at Lemon Twist and for reading the column Mike and Lynne. Happy Holidays!

On November 13^th, I attended Esther Wong’s Charity fundraising party in Cielo with my best friend, Jill Sorge. The party was hosted by Esther, Taylor, Diane Wong and the Santa Fe Christian India Mission’s team. Part of the proceeds from this event will be included in a check they are presenting in person in India at the Grace Home Orphanage and school. My favorite part of this party was watching the video clip from their last year’s trip over to India last year. If you are interested in helping donate to this charity, here is a link with information: http://www.sfcs.net/about/Pages/why_sfcs.aspx. I have included a beautiful photo of Esther and Taylor Wong from that day.

On November 15^th, Many beautiful blondes and brunettes from Rancho Santa Fe made it to Mission Valley to attend Bloomingdales Shopping

Meet the High Powered Real Estate Women in San Diego, shopping at Bloomingdales to help raise money for Rady Children's Hospital.

event, which benefited Rady Children’s Hospital here in San Diego. Look at this fabulous shot that I have included from this event! In the line up, we have Kim Smart—from Smart Interiors, Elaine Gallagher, Ally Wise, Candace Sears, and Jan Doyle-Wehlag. All of these lovely, smart women are business professionals, friends and most of all, they are shopping to benefit Rady Children’s Hospital. Well done. Make sure you shop this Christmas or donate extra items that you don’t need to charity in need.

On November 19^th, It rained all day in Rancho Santa Fe. But that didn’t stop the Sassy Santa Event that my gal-pal Krista Lafferty organized with the Garden Club. When I stopped by that  Saturday there was a massive food truck feeding the shoppers out front, a Santa listening to children’s wish lists, and a plethora of local businesses beating the Black Friday date by one week. Inside the Garden Club,  felt festive and warm. I enjoyed strolling the isles and seeing all of the vendor’s  merchandise.  Here is a photo from that day, too. Congrats to Krista, The Rancho Santa Fe Rotary and to all of those that came out to support local businesses this holiday season. Please continue to “Shop Small” this season, too.

Rancho Santa Fe's Sassy Santa Event was a SMASHING Success for The Rancho Santa Fe Rotary. Meet the Three women that made it happen. But most of all, my gal-pal Krista Lafferty.

SAVE THE MISSION: I received an email from Renee, a Ranch resident that is alerting me to some important news and to the community as

Predating California as a state by 52 years, this historical Mission in Oceanside, California is facing closure. Please help SAVE THIS Historical LANDMARK in the United States.

 The Old Mission San Luis Rey de Francia” in Oceanside is facing closure if enough money is not raised to save this landmark. Here is the link you must check out: http://www.sanluisrey.org/Seismic-retrofit/.  Know as the “King of Missions,” is a famous Natural Historic Landmark her in Southern California. Founded in 1798,  San Luis Rey’s Historic church predates California even as state by 52 years. Open 7 days a week to the public, take time and visit this landmark with your family, but more importantly donate if you can before we lose a valuable part of California history! Thank-you, Renee for alerting the community to this important information.

Caring for the Soul, Fabulous Birthday Trips Under The Eucalyptus Trees in Rancho Santa Fe

“Machel’s Ranch” The latest happenings Around Town and Inspirational stories featured in the Rancho Santa Fe News

Do you have the courage to be real? Do you show your true colors or are you just one those faking it to fit in on your cul-de-sac? If the latter applies, you are missing out on the fundamental joys of who you are on the inside. Your soul is all you’ve got. And, if you aren’t portraying the “real you,” life will catch up with you eventually. You can never turn back the hands of time. We cannot erase the mistakes of yesterday. If you aren’t being true to yourself, no one else is either.After stepping into the art world recently, I am finding much inspiration from staring deeply at paintings every day. I am finding that textures reveal tones, colors and layers and a story underneath each brushstroke. Our reflection in the mirror is similar to this. What do you see when you look at yourself?  Be still in the morning and ask yourself, “What do I love? What would bring me joy? What inspires my inner self?”

Just like a tree, your soul needs nourishment. Trust me, even if you are a parent, you must make adjustments for what you love or one day you could wonder what happened to that 12-year-old with dreams?

A must read~

So, don’t try to fit in. Take time to make time for you. Life can be incredibly short. Be the person you can be proud of each day. Author Thomas Moore’s book, “Care of the Soul,” deals with this topic. I highly recommend it. After all, life isn’t a dress rehearsal and those “do-gooders” up the street? Trust me, they’re not truly your friends anyway. So make sure you’re at least a good friend to yourself. Because you are worth it!

Around town

On Oct. 29, I received some exciting news regarding Santa Fe Christian’s seventh grade flag football team: “ My name is Jason Stewart and I’m a former division one college basketball national champion turned flag football coach! I’m debuting with these guys and I love it.”

The flag football team helps prepare the boys for high school football. According to their website, “We view the middle school flag football program as a farm system for the Santa Fe Christian High School varsity program because we run an 8-Man version of the Wing-T offense that Coach Nick Ruscetta teaches … we are one big happy Wing-T family over at SFC!” Welcome Jason Stewart and good luck to you this season. Santa Fe Christian is one of my favorite schools in the area. I have included a photo of Coach Stewart with the seventh grade flag football team.

On Nov. 1, I received some romantic news about one of my favorite couples in Rancho Santa Fe. Karian and Tom Forsyth are usually on the scene

Rancho Santa Fe Residents, Tom and Karian Forsyth in Whistler, Canada. Every year, Karian surpises Tom with a fabulous birthday trip.

many places around town, while hosting sizzling spa parties by poolside during the summer. Well, Tom’s birthday is just around the corner in the beginning of December. Guess what his birthday present is each year from his bride? Karian takes Tom to the airport each year on his important day and whisks him away to an unknown destination, which he does not know about until he arrives at the counter and receives the ticket in his hand.

Last year, Karian surprised Tom with a trip to Whistler, Canada. I have included a photo straight out of a James Bond movie, with the couple standing in front of a red helicopter up on the snowy slopes in Canada. Can you say “movie stars?” Also pictured is Tom with his buddies here in the Ranch for their local celebration. I wonder where it will be this year for the Forsyths’ next big adventure? How lucky for Tom, wouldn’t you agree? Stay tuned until next month for that news!

On Nov. 3, the Rancho Santa Fe school board honored R. Roger Rowe students who received perfect scores on their STAR testing at their meeting that evening. Parents, siblings, teachers and friends all gathered together at the Performing Center of Arts to witness this wondrous celebration, that honors the students and their perfect winning scores. Superintendent Lindy Delaney was also there to encourage the students. She also gave them all a personal tip: “When shaking hands, make sure you make good eye contact, too.” Excellent advice! Featured here are two of the recipients, my son Jackson Tuck and Rachel Waite. Rachel Waite is the daughter of Lance and Anna Waite. And, just in case inquiring minds would like to know, Jackson Tuck, is also the son of well-known news anchor Michael Tuck. Michael is now retired, remarried, and recently had a baby girl with his wife, lawyer Jill Tuck. They live in the covenant in the Ranch. Congratulations to all of the students from that night. What a special evening it was for all us there.

Rancho Santa Fe's Infamous Rat Pack~ Watch out Vegas, here are the local celebrities Around Town.

On Nov. 5, I received a wonderful picture of a Rancho Santa Fe Garden Club member’s granddaughter, Reese MacDonald. Reese’s soccer team scored the winning goal that weekend and the girls were all smiles (so were the parents!) that day. Reese is featured with her best friend Alexi Aloni. Both girls scored important goals that day for their team.

Later that day, I stopped by Lemon Twist Fruit Stand in Rancho Santa Fe for a wonderful art exhibit by local artist Nancy C. Henderson. Nancy was selling her beautiful original oil painting under a perfect blue sky on that lovely Saturday afternoon.

I took a photo of Nancy proudly standing next to her art that day. Nancy’s art varies from local nature scenes here in Rancho Santa Fe to the rolling hills of Tuscany. If you would like to buy any of Nancy’s art for your own collection, visit nancychenderson.com.

Popular resident Holly Manion came out to lend her support that day, too. We missed each other by just 10 minutes!

Shop Small on November 26th at Lemon Twist Gift & Produce Shop in Rancho Santa Fe.

Shop Small on November 26th in Rancho Santa Fe! If you live in or around Rancho Santa Fe, Please SHOP SMALL with us! Lemon Twist Fruitstand is also a beautiful Gift and Floral Shop with Unique gifts for this Holiday Season. Shop small is an important campaign across America that is promoting BUY AMERICAN. Why?

 MAKE our Country flourish this holiday season by supporting your local owners and small businesses! This is the season to show love, support and to shower those you love with that one small, unique or amazing gift that lets you know how much you love them. Lemon Twist offers small gifts for under $1o.oo, too. From Homemade Jams, Organic local Honey, Organic Citrus, Talavera Pottery, Candles, and other trinkets, we have Unique gifts here, too. So what to do this weekend with your family? SHOP small with Lemon Twist! We located in Southern California in Rancho Santa Fe. Not only do unique gifts, your shopping experience here is reminiscent of “Norman Rockwell” painting, only in modern day style. Enjoy some free coffee on us, while you shop. We will be offering $5.00 off any $40.00 purchase or more if you mention you read this on Machel Penn Shull’s website.

Also, what do with your family? Take a hike right behind us at the San Dieguito Trails! Don’t miss out on participating on this National Pride Day by supporting  SMALL LOCAL BUSINESSES. If we are too far for  you, please do SHOP SMALL on November 26th, 2011 in your local community. Here is a link to other shops in surrounding areas! http://bargainlink.com/thrift-stores.htm. San Diego, CA Thrift Store Directory

Be proud to be an AMERICAN!

http://www.sdrp.org/trails.htm

San Dieguito Trails. Shop Small at Lemon Twist, then go hiking with the family.

Gift baskets, Unique Gifts, & Baked Goods at Lemon Twist Gift & Produce shop in Rancho Santa Fe

Lemon Twist Gift Shop, in Rancho Santa Fe, California-Across from Cielo

Buy Locally in Rancho Santa Fe at Lemon Twist Gift Shop this Holiday Season!

Shop locally this holiday season. Lemon Twist has Unique Gifts, hostess gift bags, desserts, party trays, gift baskets, plus Organic and local produce from farmers here in Southern California. Open Tuesday- Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. For special orders, call ahead at 858-444-6060. Homemade chocolate chip cookies and baked breads too! $5.00 off any $40.00 order when you mention you saw this at Machel Penn Shull’s website.

Book Reviews & Authors

This site is under maintenance. Previously published book reviews on other sites will be added. New Content and Author coverage coming, too

One of my favorite books. Review coming soon, plus information on author Lolly Winston.