San Clemente March 2017

San Clemente MARCH 2017

SanClementeLifestylePubs.com

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Lifestyle Letter

Something to Write Home About

T

hey say that home is where the heart is, so it stands to reason that this March, here at San Clemente Lifestyle, our heart is here with you.

MARCH 2017 PUBLISHER

Gia Luciano | Gia.Luciano@LifestylePubs.com PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

This month we bring to you several ways to increase the good vibration of your home, from the colors we choose, to the artwork we hang on our walls, to creating a sacred space set aside to bring everything back into perspective. And life is all about perspective; we experience life as we choose to perceive it. Why not choose love and good vibrations, because what we send out into the world, always comes back to us, eventually. Speaking of which, March 19 is the "Return of the Swallow," annual observance of the swallows' return to Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Rich Saunders | Rich.Saunders@LifestylePubs.com

March has several observances nationally and internationally. Such as March 1, National Peanut Butter Lover's Day, which salutes America's favorite sandwich spread. What kid didn't grow up loving a PB&J sandwich? It's a staple in our home. March 2, National Read Across America Day. Many people in The United States, particularly students, parents, and teachers, join forces on Read Across America Day. This nationwide observance coincides with the birthday of Dr. Seuss, who is known for writing children’s books. March 17, Saint Patrick's day, is in honor of the Patron Saint of Ireland, who brought Christianity to the Emerald Isles, as Ireland is known. It is truly a day of celebrating Irish history, ancestry, traditions and customs. And let us not forget March 23, National Puppy Day, also called International Puppy Day, celebrates puppies! It is a special day to recognize the unconditional love puppies give us, and the joy they bring into our lives and our homes. It should come as no surprise, that one of the goals of National Puppy Day, is to encourage us to adopt orphaned puppies.

Lindsay Linegar, Eileen Spatz, Donna Bond,

So whether we live in the home we grew up in, our home away from home or the home we've built for our families, we've dedicated this issue of San Clemente Lifestyle to a space that's so important, our loving home.

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tori Perry | Tori.Perry@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsay Linegar, Eileen Spatz, Donna Bond, Paul Bond, Missy Will, Rich Saunders CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jonie Millhouse, Paul Bond

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

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| Matthew Perry

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Gia Luciano, Publisher

Rich Saunders, Publication Director "Gidget our rescue puppy"

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SanClementeLifestylePubs.com ON THE COVER Artwork by Paul Bond

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San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 San Clemente Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of San Clemente’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in San Clemente Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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March 2017

Departments

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8

Around Town

10

Artist’s Palette

14

Renovate & Refine

28

Local’s Choice

30

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

14 From Old to New Again

Local Refurbishing Artist Demonstrates a Springtime Furniture Makeover

18 Special Spaces

Orange County

24 How Do Pictures Speak to You?

From the Artist's Perspective

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN

SAN CLEMENTE WOMAN'S CLUB CELEBRATES ITS 86TH YEAR The San Clemente Woman’s Club is celebrating its 86th anniversary. It was founded six years after Ole Hanson realized his dream of The Spanish Village By The Sea. The SCWC is an active philanthropic and civic-minded organization that continues projects such as delivering Meals on Wheels, aiding Family Assistance Ministries, providing scholarships for outstanding college-bound high school students and meeting many other needs of the community. They will be hosting a dinner for the families staying at Ronald McDonald House in March.

The San Clemente Woman's Club is open to women of all ages in San Clemente and the surrounding areas. They meet on the first Tuesday of every month at the Talega Swim and Athletic Club, 100 Calle Altea, San Clemente.

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San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

Scholarships: The San Clemente Woman's Club proudly continues its support providing scholarships each year to San Clemente High School seniors who meet the eligibility requirements.

The deadline for applications is March 28. Simply download and complete the application form from SanClementeWomansClub.org and mail it to the address provided.

If you have additional questions about the process, you can contact Jan Parker at 949.361.4075.

2017 Board Members

Artist’s Palette

Modern Art Through Geometry ARTICLE LINDSAY LINEGAR PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSEY LINEGAR AND JONIE MILLHOUSE

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ccording to Nikola Tesla, “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.”

An interesting theory, perhaps, but what does it mean? Some may require several courses on science and physics to be able to fully understand what Tesla was talking about. Others may go a different route.

Local San Clemente artist Drew Brophy has been on a journey to study and learn about these secrets through his work with sacred geometry.

Early on, Brophy enjoyed surfing the waves where he grew up in South Carolina as well as painting surf boards. He spent his summers traveling to San Clemente to surf the beach town’s famous waves. After high school, Brophy moved to Hawaii from South Carolina and then relocated to San Clemente in 1996, eventually deciding to make it his home. He got his start as a surf artist while working on surf boards in San Clemente.

Brophy changed the surfboard art scene, and this led to greater and greater success as an artist. He had been airbrushing boards, which was common practice at the time, but he was only able to produce up to 10 surfboards per day. Using Uni-Posca water based paint pens, he developed a technique that enabled him to 1. Brophy with one of his sacred geometry Vesica Pisces pieces.

Photo by Jonie Millhouse.

2. Brophy working in his studio. Photo by Jonie Millhouse.

3. A snippet of one of Brophy’s earlier surf art pieces. Photo by Lindsay Linegar.

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San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

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4. Drew Brophy in his studio.

Photo by Jonie Millhouse.

5. Brophy working on a sacred geometry “Flower of Life” piece in his studio. Photo by Jonie Millhouse.

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produce up to 20 boards per day. As opposed to the technical nature of airbrushing, the use of Uni-Posca pens allowed him to be more creative and efficient in his work, which brought in more money.

Brophy is best known for his surf board art, along with his other earlier surf art. He has created pieces for an array of clientele including famous bands and musicians, and high profile businesses and companies. He also has done work for many ordinary people around the world, some of whom were so fascinated by his Uni-Posca art, he would be compelled to leave the pens behind as gifts.

In recent years, Brophy has shifted his focus to fine art and has become increasingly interested in sacred geometry. Sacred geometry gives symbolic meaning to certain geometric shapes and proportions and claims that, as Carl Gauss says, “God arithmetizes.” In nature, for example, there are patterns and shapes that fall in line with geometry. For instance, a honeycomb is constructed with hexagonal cells.

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His main inspiration came from a lifetime of surfing and interacting with the water. From the way it covers the majority of the earth and all living things to the way it causes time to stand still while you’re being barreled in a wave, to Brophy, water is magical. Being a surfer, he also spent a lot of time studying meteorology, and this led him to a greater interest in physics and sacred geometry.

As an artist, he also wondered why we’re drawn to certain images and patterns. He had already been doing geometry in his art without realizing it, by using certain shapes like swirls and making his work symmetrical and proportional. He reached a point, however, of knowing it was merely aesthetics. By incorporating sacred geometry into his art, he was attempting to understand what he was seeing and learning.

In his recent work, you will find patterns like the vesica piscis and the flower of life.

Brophy also uses certain colors to communicate. Tying his sacred geometry work

6. Brophy’s Uni-Posca water based paint pens.

Photo by Lindsay Linegar.

into his love for the ocean and surfing, he likes to use colors of the water.

“It never gets old to see the beauty of the water,” he says.

He uses blue because it is widely attributed to the ocean and because it puts you at ease.

He notices nuances in the water, like when the yellowish kelp mixes with the water and makes it look green. He says the colors of the sunset, such as oranges and reds, are counterintuitively soothing because of the wavelengths from the sun.

Brophy’s curiosity continues to grow as his love for and awareness of the earth and the ocean become deeper. As he learns more about physics, and ventures into other subjects like binary codes and electromagnetic field, he believes everything is connected.

“All the pieces are trying to connect,” he says.

All the pieces are trying to connect.

Perhaps this is related to the secrets Tesla was talking about.

March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

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Renovate & Refine

From Old to New Again

LOCAL REFURBISHING ARTIST DEMONSTRATES A SPRINGTIME FURNITURE MAKEOVER

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY EILEEN SPATZ

J

ill’s Abode sits nestled at the end of Avenida Del Mar’s shopping milieu like an Ole Hanson-inspired punctuation point. Jill Wilson owns and operates her retail store out of a historical 1928 cottage that provides a splendid canvas for featuring the eclectic blend of artistry and whimsy found at Jill’s Abode.

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San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

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1. A large solid mahogany piece before its makeover.

2. Each room of the historical Ole Hansen house is chock full of wonderful treasures.

3. Wilson in the process of applying the finishing touches.

4. This rustic coffee table has the “boat wood” technique applied.

5. Chalk paint can be applied and distressed in a myriad of creative ways.

6. A succulent artist adds greenery throughout.

7. Daughter Katie occasionally helps Wilson at the store.

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Opposite Page - Voila! The amazing transformation of a staid old dresser!

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In addition to a warm and interesting mix of home furnishings and décor flourishes sprinkled throughout the quaint dwelling, Wilson offers a variety of classes where interested locals can learn all about the application of Annie Sloan Chalk Paints, of which she is a distributor and is a focal point of Jill’s Abode. Wilson offers a three-hour workshop for $95 where students can bring a small piece of furniture to completely transform into something fresh and exciting by the end of the lesson.

Wilson notes that interior décor trends are moving away from the heavy Tuscan theme that dominated the last 10-15 years and are now gravitating to a clean, coastal palette—a perfect meet-up with the 2017 Pantone trend colors. Using the fresh and invigorating paint colors, Wilson provides readers here with the before and after effect on an old solid mahogany dresser now donning Pantone Lapis Blue and a fun end table that morphs from shell pink to Pantone Primrose Yellow.

The beauty of using chalk paint is the absence of having to perform any prep work.

Wilson selects an old piece with interesting lines and details and simply applies the paint right over any existing finish. Using a variety of techniques, including layering colors for a “boat wood” effect, distressing edges, adding color washes or even decoupage, the finished product promises to be a charming accent to any room in the house.

Wilson is constantly on the hunt for unique, well-built pieces that she can envision updating with the chalk paints. She only uses quality pieces made of solid wood, specifically those with cool lines and design details. Once she completes the chalk paint makeover magic, Wilson adds the piece to the inventory at Jill’s Abode.

In addition to the furniture pieces that she creates, Wilson collaborates with other local artists and artisans who embellish the store with wonderful paintings, quirky mixed media creations, and beautiful succulent artistry. Jill’s Abode is located at 228 Avenida Del Mar in downtown San Clemente. To learn more about the painting techniques go to JillsAbode.com.

To inquire about the workshops, please call 949.545.7998.

March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

15

Isn’t this odd?

Paula Oblen 18

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

ARTICLE LINDSAY LINEGAR

“I

sn’t this odd?” she asked. “Here we are asking you what your dream is and you’re probably thinking, ‘I just want to get through this chemo and have a normal life again.’”

San Clemente local Paula Oblen recounts a moment between herself and the newest recipient of a Special Spaces Orange County bedroom remodel.

Special Spaces is a national nonprofit corporation dedicated to changing children’s lives one bedroom at a time. There are teams around the country working tirelessly to create dream bedrooms for children facing life-threatening illnesses. Oblen recently became director of the Orange County chapter and is thrilled to utilize her gifts and passions for such a worthy cause.

Longtime entrepreneur and CEO of her company, Hotelements, and a member of the San Clemente Junior Women’s Club,

she wanted to join forces with an effort that would match her passion for children and design. During an event with the SC Junior Women’s Club, she found it serendipitous when she met the former director of Special Spaces Orange County and was invited to become their designer. Since then, she has helped design three bedrooms and taken on the role of director.

“I remember my first bedroom,” she says.

It was for a 5-year-old girl facing leukemia. The child was diagnosed at 2 years old. Oblen described the girl as bright and simultaneously wondered at her ability to comprehend what she was going through at such a young age. When she talked with the child about her dreams, she realized that just like the girl, the room would be “A Modern Princess.” She wanted pink, so the princess received her pink, princess bedroom.

Another remodel was for a 16-year-old girl named Abigail, or Abi as she’s called.

Abi was diagnosed with an uncommon disease called Wegener’s Granulomatosis, which causes inflammation in the blood vessels and can lead to complications in the kidneys, lungs and upper respiratory tract.

“Despite her adversity, she lit up the room with her smile and independent spirit,” Oblen says.

She was excited for the remodel and even created her own “inspiration board” with ideas for her new room. In May 2015, the team created a “Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow” for Abi, which reflected her personality perfectly.

In June 2016, a remodel was done for a close family friend of Oblen’s. Jack Szabo was diagnosed with a rare form of non-Hodgkins Lymphoma on his 18th CONTINUED >

March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

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SPECIAL SPACES (CON TI N U ED)

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birthday. He was immediately put on chemo and later had to undergo a bone marrow transplant. Oblen is in awe of Jack.

“He has fought with courage and taught everyone along the way that you can push through anything with the right attitude,” she says.

His room includes an entire wall of chalk canvas where friends and family can leave messages of love and inspiration.

Oblen says remodeling the bedrooms is not just about decorating—it’s about giving each child an experience. Her hope is that when the child walks into their bedroom, all of their worries will disappear. She wants it to be a space that gives them hope and inspiration. The bedroom is so important because when the children get home from the 20

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

hospital, their bedroom is like a safe haven.

It’s a place for them to heal and recover, and since they will likely spend a lot of time in their bedroom, it should be a place where they can find some peace and comfort in the midst of their suffering.

Once a recipient has been identif ied and meets the necessary criteria, Oblen and her team set up a meeting with the child ’s family and then interview the child. By meeting and talking with the children, Oblen and the Special Spaces Orange County team gain valuable insights into each child ’s wildest dreams by tapping into everything imaginable.

By asking questions about favorite music and dream vacation destinations, for example, they learn what the children

are thinking, what they want and what they wish for.

Even when a child is initially shy to share, Oblen says they always think of something they want. With the newest recipient, for example, it took a while before he would share something he wished for. During the interview, he eventually started to open up and share, and as she was getting ready to leave his home, he called out from his bedroom with something else he had thought of for his room.

As a 15-year-old, it makes sense that being diagnosed with leukemia would leave him shy to speak. It also makes sense, as Oblen suggested, that his number one wish would be to get well and get back to his normal life again.

Because he opened up to the team about his

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1. “Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow” - Personalized design details pull a room together.

2. Jack's chalkboard canvas wall - the perfect way for friends to share inspirational messages to their buddy. He wakes up each day and gets to feel his friends with him on his journey.

3. “Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow” -Patterned pillows mixed with a slice of the beach makes the bed feel cozy and inviting.

4. “Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow” - Behind the scenes, reveal day, volunteers making welcome home signs.

5. Abigail’s “Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow” is revealed to her.

6. “Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow” -Abigail’s very own origami flowers are the perfect touch to an industrial shaped iron wall accent.

CONTINUED > 7. “Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow” - A sprinkling of typography.

March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

21

SPECIAL SPACES (CON TI N U ED)

"Modern Boutique Beach Bungalow" - The final room awaiting Abigail for the big reveal.

(Below) Abigail’s “inspiration board” which she created in excitement of her new room.

I believe the kids in the new club are about to experience something they never have before,” Oblen says. “And I can’t wait for our big reveal! dreams and wishes, his bedroom remodel is scheduled to take place in mid-March.

Since he is a freshman at San Clemente High School, Oblen thought it would be special to invite his classmates to help out. For her, it’s important to involve the community in these efforts. She met with the student body president and discussed the possibility of starting a Special Spaces club at the school.

She then gave a presentation at the high school and found a girl to be president of the club. San Clemente High School now has a Special Spaces Club with 200 members.

They are currently planning and preparing for the dream bedroom remodel. All of the kids will have a role, whether it be construction, making cards, taking care of food, painting or any of the various other pieces 22

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

needed to complete the project. All of the pieces are important. It’s a team effort, and everyone needs to roll up their respective sleeves so that the remodel will be a success.

“I believe the kids in the new club are about to experience something they never have before,” Oblen says. "And I can’t wait for our big reveal!”

Not only are the kids transforming a room, but their lives will undergo transformation in the process as well. Even if they cannot fully anticipate what’s ahead, they are all excited to help out.

Oblen is also excited about helping. She’s grateful she gets to express her creativity in this way. As she reflects on her work as director of Special Spaces Orange County, she acknowledges her journey here.

As an entrepreneur, when she was trying to grow her business, she says she always used to be thinking of herself.

“Your work life and personal life can be overwhelming,” she says. “And it’s easy to get wrapped up in yourself and your business.”

After a time of reflection, she realized something was missing. She had a strong desire to take all of her passion and experience and combine that with her love for kids.

It’s not just about her anymore. It’s about the people around her. It’s about community.

It’s about seeing a child’s face open up with joy and delight as they see their dream come true. It’s about giving each child, as Gertrude Stein would say, the “place of places.” Or better yet, it’s about giving each child the special space of spaces.

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How Do Pictures Speak to You? FROM THE ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL BOND 24

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

Y

ou know that old phrase about a picture being worth a thousand words? Well, the reason it’s true is that when we see an image our brains immediately start processing what we are seeing. In fact, the visual cortex processes images 60,000 times faster than text alone. Images trigger a dialogue between you and your inner psyche. And whether we are uplifted, disturbed, or neutral to the image determines whether we’ll spend any more time looking at it.

As a magic realism artist, my paintings and writings exist in an allegorical, symbolic world. They are grown-up fairy tales, and there is very much a story being told in each one. I am keenly aware when creating a work of art what each object, the pose of the figures, the type of animals represented, as well as the color choices are representing and how the viewer might respond to them.

I started writing down those stories and poems for my own records. But over time I found that viewers—even after analyzing my art from their own personal perspective— still wanted to know what I was thinking. So now I share those written narratives next to each painting at my exhibits.

The combination of my words and images brings people deeper into the art and its underlying meaning, and that allows a more profound emotional connection between us to unfold. It is truly a heart-to-heart conversation. And my greatest reward, even more than selling a painting, is people sharing about how profoundly moved they were when one of my creations "spoke to them."

In Between Here and Not Here If you were to die before me I would find a piece of real estate in between heaven and earth where I’d build a little shelter like the ones hikers use on long mountain trails.

There, we could spend nights together and, if you were so inclined I’d let you cradle my new-born sadness.

Out of the storm of my grief you would tell me stories about why I shouldn’t be in a hurry to follow and feed me with knowing words that it’s all OK. All divine.

That you left with everything you came for, and more.

With coffee-flavored kisses you would thank me for the sweetness I gave to your life and I’d make you stay until the dawn was certain, until night had poured out the last of its darkness.

When I awoke again the smell of you on our sheets would confirm that it wasn’t just a dream.

That you were waiting for us in the shelter I built in between here and not here.

In Between Here and Not Here.

30 x 30 / Oil on Panel.

CONTINUED >

March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

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PICTURES (CON TI N UED)

The Girl Who Circumnavigated the World in a Dream of Her Own Making.

72 x 40 / Oil on Canvas.

A Roadside Shaman Attempts to Explain the Tao. 21 x 14 / Oil on Panel.

McKena’s Bittersweet Departure from the Island of Happiness.

24 x 30 / Oil on Panel.

McKena’s Bittersweet Departure from the Island of Happiness

The Girl Who Circumnavigated the World in a Dream of Her Own Making This painting is about trust and optimism. It is said that people who live in a world of uplifting thoughts aren’t facing reality. But the fact is, their reality is different than others’. It tends to match their attitude. They trust that all is unfolding with purpose and theirs lives reflect that thinking. This is no simple philosophical pondering for me. Indeed, I believe this is the key to an expansive, fully lived life.

Challenges still happen. But the difference in moving through them brings to mind the words of poet Patrick Overton: “When we walk to the edge of all the light we have and take the step into the darkness of the unknown, we must believe that one of two things will happen. There will be something solid for us to stand on or we will be taught to fly.”

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San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

A Roadside Shaman Attempts to Explain the Tao He nods in silent approval upon receiving my payment of a coin and two round stones, which I’m asked to secure to a tree.

Removing a crystalline pendulum from beneath his wing, the shaman, in a barely audible voice, says gruffly, “we go here towards subjects in which words become meaningless,” and begins to swing it rhythmically from side to side. After a time, he ceases movement and I watch as the pendulum slowly comes to balance. “Ah, the middle way” I say proudly, “if you don’t go to the extremes one always finds their center point” - as if I’ve solved an elusive physics equation. But instead of the approval I was expecting, the shaman drops the chain, rolls his deep black eyes and sweeps his beak sideways in the international symbol for ‘hit the road, pal.’

The Monkey King, with a sad knowing in his voice, spoke softly into McKena’s ear.

“It’s time for you to leave us, child.” McKena, with her eyes already fixed on the boat coming to take her to the Land of the Grown Up, said absentmindedly, “but I’ll be back soon, OK?” “Perhaps,” replied the king. But he knew it would be many years, if ever, that she would return. There would be purpose for her in that new world. But when she forgets to play and use the gift of imagination, the going will likely be hard. “Just remember that we’ll always be here. When the day that the opinions of others becomes more important than your own, and the sadness of living a life where magic has ceased to exist too heavy, and laughter is scarce, this same boat will bring you back.” The others on the island, who had heard the Monkey King’s farewell millions of times before, still always cried at these words. Not for their loss, but for hers. Though they knew that in their dreaming they would still play together. And maybe, someday, perhaps while watching a child of her own become filled out like a sail with her own joy, she would be one of the few to return. Perhaps.

The Day Namotu’s Ship Came In. 20 x 24 / Oil on Panel.

The Carriage Ride, Circa 1890.

15 x 12 / Oil on Panel.

The Day Namotu’s Ship Came In

The Carriage Ride, Circa 1890

Inspired by a quote from T.S. Eliot: We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.

Namotu leaves his jungle paradise for what he hopes will be a grander life. Perhaps he will find it. And perhaps, he will simply come to discover that his source of happiness was no further than the depths of his own heart. It doesn’t always require an external journey to discover it. But following the callings of our hearts is the only truly worthy voyage in life.

I was recently viewing paintings of upper class life in the late twentieth century, and the correlation with the imagery and my cat’s entitlement attitude became clearly evident. Perhaps this is why those of us who have cats love them so. This is no knock on their lack of physical effort beyond the pure necessities. It is very enviable. In fact, if there was an optional carriage service to move her from nap spot to the meal service site, I’m sure she would take it.

Paul Bond, Magic Realism Oil Painter

Paul Bond is a San Clemente-based award-winning oil painter and poet. His work is collected throughout the U.S., as well as Asia, Australia, Europe and the Middle East.

Corporate collectors include Hotel EMC2 in Chicago and NBC Studios. He exhibits locally at the Laguna Beach Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts and his studio is open by appointment. He recently published a coffee table art book on 20 years of his paintings and writings. To see more of Paul’s art, book and prints, visit PaulBondArt.com.

WANT THE PARTY BUT NOT THE PLANNING? We can help.

949.285.2043 mikii@neoncarrotevents.com www.neoncarrotevents.com

S RTIE A P AY S THD NIC BIR PIC Y N PA ERS COM INN D E TIES VAT ERS PRI PAR E OW S I H R S P DAL SUR BRI & NS Y NIO BAB U E IES R ART ILY P M A N F GS ATIO TIN U E D E EM GRA RAT O P CES COR REN E F CON ARY ERS IONS V I ANN BRAT E CEL March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

27

Local’s Choice

This space is mine alone. It is an alter to my own Soul. It is a space I love.

CREATING A SPACE YOU LOVE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY DONNA BOND

Begin each day spending sacred time with yourself.

28

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

I

am so grateful to consider my house a sanctuary. My space is serene and beautiful and contemplative. It’s quiet. There are fountains and flowers and birds outside all my windows which are usually kept open, allowing the beauty of nature to unfold itself into the lifestyle of my home. I consider my living space sacred.

It is my respite—the place I retreat to when I need safety and nurturing and peace. It supports and rejuvenates me. It inspires and provides me with that tender comfort we seek when we need to be recharged. My home is so peaceful and provides such Shimmering gold and jewels create the more sophisticated retreat that sometimes it makes it gallery feel we fashioned. hard to even go on vacation.

When I consider something sacred, for me it means regarding it with reverence. Connected to a higher power and immune from interference. Worthy of protection.

In considering how and why I created this incredible, tranquil, sacred space sanctuary, I share this list.

The Heartbeat of my Home – I am fortunate enough to have a great room in which my wide-open kitchen, dining room and living room are all centered around a big island with an entire wall of windows exposing the beauty of the canyon behind my house. Having this open space creates the feeling of togetherness and connectedness. Where memories are created and lives are shared. It is my center.

Five Sensory Experience – Aside from the collection of beautiful things, including the magic realism of Paul Bond, I ensure all the senses are stimulated in my home sanctuary. In my office, a fragrant diffuser provides the essence of clarity with a mixture of cedarwood, wild orange and lavender.

Candles give off pockets of gentle warmth throughout, while the trickle of fountains and song of the birds come through from the outside.

Things I Love – Be it the scrumptious high thread count on my Egyptian cotton sheets, the huge purple crystal amethyst or the way the sun pours into my bedroom window as I end my morning meditation, I only invite objects that I love into my space.

If I don’t love it, it’s cause for review. Surrounding myself with these beloved things— nature, great art, inspirational music, fresh foods, crystals, things that hang, more light—brighten my spirit, lift my mood and contribute to and reflect the joy and happiness I feel in my life.

Change is Good – I love changing up the environment. For years, my great room’s center was a slouchy, overstuffed slipcover couch.

Everything around it supported that relaxed feel. Great for movies and a book, but it lacked sophistication or elegance. We changed it for a look we humorously refer to as the “opium den.” Low-back tufted seating, vibrant teal blue ottoman, a patterned shag and lamps adorned with shimmering gold jewels create the more sophisticated gallery feel we fashioned.

Meditative Moments – Being committed to my daily meditation and spiritual practice, it became important to have a special space where I could be close to the earth, grounded and comfortable while I take my inward journey each day. My altar is adorned with a tiny bell, fairy dust, bark from a tree and heart-shaped rocks. I love stacking up my boxes of divinity cards with their bright colors and vibrational energies and having a cushion positioned on the floor. I face the garden view with the ocean beyond that where I begin each day spending sacred time with myself. This space is mine alone. It is an altar to my own soul. It is a space I love.

Our homes are the containers of the sacred hours of our lives.

They are the ref lections of our inner state of being. How do you want to create yours in a way that supports who you are and the lifestyle you want to experience? Perhaps you don’t know the answer to that question. Maybe you have never really given thought to how your home expresses who you are and what you value in life. Knowing yourself, your preferences, your desires and the state of being you want to manifest into your life is a great place to start.

As a professional life coach, and inspirational speaker, Donna Bond, M.A. offers inspiring workshops and transformative in-depth coaching programs that help businesses and clients achieve new heights of meaningful success, personal fulfillment and spiritual aliveness. Her work centers on serving individual transformation of consciousness. Visit DonnaBond.com for more information.

Things I love lift my mood and contributes to and reflect the joy and happiness I feel in my life.

March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

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Lifestyle Calendar

March

MARCH 11

ANGEL STREET

Clemente to benefit local charities. Corned beef and cabbage dinner

THE CABRILLO PLAYHOUSE

with all the trimmings catered by Hennesy's Wine/Bistro served from

In an 1880s Victorian mansion located in London on Angel Street, we

5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For ticket and event information call 949.240.4089.

MARCH 3 - 26

soon learn that the master of the house, Jack Manningham, is trying

ST. PATRICKS DAY DINNER AND DANCE AUDITORIUM 'Tis the 50th Annual Community St. Patrick’s Dinner and Dance, sponsored by the Exchange Club in partnership with the City of San

to persuade his wife Bella that she is losing her mind. Thursday, Fri-

MARCH 13

day and Saturday shows at 8 p.m., Sunday shows at 2 p.m.

COOKING CLASS DEMONSTRATIONS

CabrilloPlayHouse.org.

ANTOINE’S CAFÉ

MARCH 5

Caroline Cazaumayou will be giving a class on entertaining favorites, featuring artichoke stuffed baby potatoes pesto salmon wrapped in

D. YODER FAMILY SUNDAYS #KEYSBYTHESEA

phyllo with roasted red pepper sauce; baked wild rice with mush-

CASA ROMANTICA CULTURAL CENTER

room; baby spinach salad with sweet herb vinaigrette, toasted walnut

Explore the “Keys by the Sea” exhibition February 22 - March 5 and

and feta; and lemon pudding cake with berries. Cost is $60 per per-

create music with pianos scattered in our gardens. Physics of Sound

son. Call 949.492.1763

learning stations will provide a fun learning experience, and Casa Romantica Music Academy and Festival and/or SOCSA students will perform short pieces at noon.

MARCH 5 VILLAGE ART FAIRE DOWNTOWN SAN CLEMENTE The Village Art Faire is held on the first Sunday of every month at 9 a.m. and is put on by the Downtown Business Association. Our artisans offer a beautiful selection of handcrafted work including photography, fine art, jewelry, woodwork, botanicals, apothecary, leather, wearables, ceramics, home décor, fused/blown glass, metal work and much more.

MARCH 16

VillageSanClemente.org.

CASA UP CLOSE: OLIVIA ANASTASIADIS

MARCH 8

CASA ROMANTICA CULTURAL CENTER

CASA YOGA

Learn about former President Richard Nix-

CASA ROMANTICA CULTURAL CENTER

on’s special relationship with San Clemente

Inspired by multiple yoga traditions, this

in a talk led by Olivia Anastasiadis, curator of

class blends various disciplines to create a

the Richard Nixon Presidential Library in Yor-

unique, integrated practice suitable for both

ba Linda, California. Anastasiadis will share

beginner and seasoned yoga practitioners.

a history of San Clemente’s fabled “Western

Please bring your own yoga mat. $5; free

Whitehouse,” where the Nixons maintained a

with any membership.

presidential hideaway throughout the 1970s.

CasaRomantica.org.

General admission $12, members $10.

MARCH 10

MARCH 29

MEMBERS NIGHTS AT THE CASA

CASA WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS

CASA ROMANTICA CULTURAL CENTER

CASA ROMANTICA CULTURAL CENTER

Member Nights at the Casa provides Casa Romantica members ex-

Learn to make three kinds of sushi, including cut and hand rolls, in

clusive access to the Casa on select evenings throughout the year

this delightful hands-on class led by Tspoons Cooking School. Cost

to enjoy music, current gallery exhibitions and stunning sunsets over

for materials is $35.

the Pacific. Members only. Free for members.

CasaRomantica.org.

30

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

Make our home your loved one’s home!

949.370.5754 | shaylwill@me.com 273 Via Ballena, San Clemente, CA 92672 JoyForElders.com CA # 300613239

We are able to provide the very best care for your loved one.

6 Bed Private Board and Care Home in San Clemente for Seniors | Home Health Services Dementia and Hospice Care | Visiting Podiatrist | Transportation for Doctor Visits | Personal Grooming Activities: Outings to Senior Center, Beach Picnics, Music Therapy, Visiting Volunteers, Karaoke

March 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

31

business directory DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Redmond Orthodontics (949) 495-0600 redmondorthodontics.net

Shoreline Dental (949) 498-4110 shorelinedentalstudio.com

EDUCATION

Academy of Makeup Artistry (949) 413-8869 cammuamakeupschool.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Neon Carrot Events (949) 285-2043 neoncarrotevents.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Salt Life (714) 361-3822 saltlife.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Luminance Recovery (714) 702-1870 luminancerecovery.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

RJH Construction (800) 524-1612 rjhconstructioncompany.com

INTERIOR DESIGN Hotelements 19493719688 hotelement.com

b.spoke (714) 884-3722 bspokestyle.com

32

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

LEGAL

Mains Law Office & Gold Coast Financial Group (949) 545-6504 mainslawoffice.com

MORTGAGE

Amerifirst Financial IncRodriguez Hazard Team (949) 421-6916 rodriguezhazardamerifirstloans.com

OTHER

Donna Bond Consulting-Coaching (949) 573-7708 donnabond.com

San Clemente Lifestyle Magazine (949) 648-2686

REAL ESTATE

Hartanov Team (949) 422-3739 hartanovteam.com

Realty One Group- Lisa Adams (949) 338-2694 lisaadamsrealestate.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Sonny's Pizza & Pasta (949) 498-2540 sonnys.com

The Fisherman's (949) 498-6390 thefishermansrestaurant.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Accent on Seniors (949) 370-5754 joyforelders.com

Parting Thoughts

Aunt Dru’s

Old Fashioned

Banana Bread with a Twist ARTICLE MISSY WILL

O

ne of the smells that remind me of my home is my Aunt Dru's banana

bread. I make this when I want to bring back memories of my childhood, and I am sure it will for you as well.

• 1/2 cup butter or a little more • 1 cup sugar • 2 eggs, beaten • 3 bananas finely crushed (for a bit more moist and delicious, try 4 bananas) • 1 1⁄2 cups flour (you can use gluten-free; almond and coconut flour work well) • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt, kosher • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla (I use the paste) • 2/3 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. Cream together butter and sugar.

2. Add eggs and crushed bananas.

3. Combine well.

4. Sift together flour, baking soda and salt. Add to creamed mixture. Add vanilla and walnuts.

5. Mix until combined. Do not overmix.

6. Pour into greased and floured loaf pan.

7. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes.

8. Keeps well refrigerated, but it will not last long.

34

San Clemente Lifestyle | March 2017

New year, new you!

I felt

welcomed.

The

staff is

personable and kind.

extra

mile They all go the to make the client feel calmer and relaxed.

~ Adrian D.

• Invisalign Premier Provider 2016 • Sleep Dentistry/Sedation Certified • Zoom! Whitening

Dr. Kristen Ritzau, SCHS Grad

Porcelain Veneers

500 OFF

$

Teeth Whitening Included For patients who complete 4 or more units or $125 off each unit.

Expires on March 31st, 2017.

Not valid with any other offers.

122 Avenida Cabrillo San Clemente, California 92672

949-245-6047 Dr. Ritzau & Dr. Livingston

ShorelineDentalStudio.com