“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.   

“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

Farmers Markets in Rancho Santa Fe-Shop Lemon Twist~

Lemon Twist Produce & Gift Shop offers more than just your local vegetables and fruits from local farmers. We carry homemade jams, no sugar added jams, organic raw Rancho Santa Fe honey, homemade applesauce, olive oils and vinegars, salad dressings, Talavera pottery from Mexico, Garden Art, Saint statues, hummingbird feeders, succulent gardens planted in Talavera pottery, water fountains, house plants, floral arrangements, organic citrus, tomatoes, strawberries, chocolate covered strawberries, kumquats, and many other unique gifts, snacks, and food items to choose from at Lemon Twist. Opening over 30 years ago, Lemon Twist is a landmark in the Rancho Santa Fe Community. Recently rebuilt after the Witch Creek Fires in 2007, Lemon Twist wants to thank all of the many loyal customers that continue to stop by daily and shop at this one-0f-a-kind local farmers market. For any questions or large chocolate strawberry orders, please call (858) 756-0826. Lemon Twist is featured in FINE Luxury Magazine this month as one of the top Farmer’s Markets in the San Diego Area.

Talavera Pottery Succulent Garden available at Lemon Twist's Gift Shop

Click here to read Magazine Review on Lemon Twist featured in FINE Magazine’s latest spring issue:

http://www.finehomesandliving.com/March-2012/San-Diegos-Farmers-Markets

farmers markets in Rancho Santa Fe-Lemon Twist Produce & Gift shop

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

“Machel’s Ranch”

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.

“Machel’s Ranch” The Rancho Santa Fe News-February column

          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!

Rancho Santa Fe’s “Machel’s Ranch.” Five Women Worth Talking About

            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.

In 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 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.

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!

Dr. Suess’s “The Lorax” Illustrated Art at Legends Gallery in La Jolla, CA USA