PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
PREPARING YOUR PET FOR THE PERFECT PORTRAIT
FOOD + BEVERAGE
LAZY DOG RESTAURANT
LIFE + CULTURE
LUNCHBOX LOVE NOTES
Kids & Pets
Hi!
It’s me, Zoe! I’m super excited to be writing the Kids & Pets letter again this year. I just turned 10, and I’m going into 5th grade—which feels like a pretty big deal. I’ve been working hard this summer making clay bead bracelets (and anklets and necklaces too), because I’m starting my own business! I love picking out the colors and designing things that make people smile.
This issue is all about the fun stuff—kids like me, and awesome pets! I loved getting to see all the photos, read the stories, and hear what other kids are up to around Temecula. Kids & pets make everything more fun!
Thank you for reading! I hope you love this issue as much as I do!
Love,
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Sean Arnett | sean.arnett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Desiree Allen | desiree.allen@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Sean Arnett
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Desiree Allen
INTERNS
Zoe Cardno, Mariana Gomez, Emma Mangan, Ariana Vinh, Seth Haden
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ava Sarnowski, Desiree Allen, Sean Arnett
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Shawna Sarnowski, Ada Rey
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
ZOE, FUTURE CEO & 5TH GRADER
Wine cocktails, cold beer, sangria, and all your favorite wines — Lorimar has something for everyone. So stop wondering what to do today.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Temecula's NEW Splash Pad summer fun runs daily—Public Swim hours vary, Mon–Sun afternoons. 2: Beat the heat! Water shoes on, smiles wide—safety first at Temecula’s summer splash zone. 3: Sun’s out, suits on! Cool off daily with supervised play and family-friendly splash time.
by Shawna Sarnowski
Photography
business monthly
Temecula Mural Project
The Temecula Mural Project celebrates local talent by giving emerging artists a place to shine. The May/June mural, facilitated by Bigfoot Graphics and Temecula Community Services, honors California State Parks. It was painted by Sabin Flores, a local artist and instructor at Bigfoot Art Classes, where he teaches anime and watercolor. Inspired by his love for Torrey Pines, Sabin’s mural is a vibrant tribute to the beauty of our state parks.
Scan to read more
Celebrate National Dog Day with Lazy Dog
Lazy Dog Restaurant is celebrating National Dog Day all week, August 26–31, with a pawsome partnership. For every in-restaurant Dog Bowl ordered, they’ll donate $1 to Pet Partners, a nonprofit supporting therapy dog teams. Guests will also receive a card for a free Dog Bowl on a future visit with entrée purchase. Enjoy dog-friendly patios and pup-approved bowls with grilled chicken or beef, brown rice, and veggies—because pets deserve the best.
Lorimar Winery - Killer Dueling Pianos
Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 6 p.m.-9 p.m. | 21+ only 39990 Anza Road, Temecula, CA 92591
Join us for dinner, music, and dancing with The Killer Dueling Pianos! Each ticket includes one glass of sangria in a commemorative cup. Wine, beer, cocktails, and food available for purchase.
Scan to read more
Photography by Shawna Sarnowski
Photography by Lazy Dog Restaurant
Inner Excellence Book Club
Ready to build inner strength and resilience from the inside out? Join us as we dive into Inner Excellence by Jim Murphy—a powerful read on mindset, focus, and purpose.
Where: The Press, Old Town Murrieta
When: Sundays at 11 AM, starting July 13
Bring your book, an open mind, and a friend!
Scan to read more
5 Eco-Friendly Tips for Hikers and Trailblazers
SIMPLE SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES TO PROTECT NATURE WHILE YOU EXPLORE IT
Temecula’s scenic trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature—but it’s important to explore responsibly. These eco-friendly hiking tips will help protect our beautiful landscapes for future adventurers.
1. Pack Out What You Pack In
Follow the “leave no trace” rule by carrying out all trash, including biodegradable items like fruit peels, which take weeks to decompose. Keeping trails clean helps preserve local ecosystems and protects wildlife.
2. Stay on the Trails
ARTICLE BY SETH HADEN
Official trails are carefully designed to protect surrounding vegetation and prevent soil erosion. Wandering off-path can trample delicate plants that take years to establish. Follow trail markers and signs to help preserve these landscapes.
3. Leash Your Dog
Bringing your four-legged friend? Keep them on a leash to ensure the safety of wildlife, fellow hikers, and even your pup. Many national and state parks have specific rules about pets on trails, so check regulations before heading out. And don’t forget to pack doggy bags to clean up waste!
4. Respect Wildlife—From a Distance
As tempting as it may be to snap a close-up photo of a squirrel or deer, it’s important to admire wildlife from afar. Feeding animals disrupts their natural instincts and can make them dependent on human food. Some animals may also become defensive, posing a danger to both them and you.
5. Leave the Wildflowers Where They Bloom
California’s native wildflowers are not only beautiful but vital to the ecosystem. Some species are even protected by law. Instead of picking them, capture their beauty with a photo and let them thrive for others to enjoy. By following these eco-friendly hiking practices, you’ll help protect Temecula’s stunning trails and ensure a safe, enjoyable outdoor experience for all. Happy exploring!
Nature gives us beauty—let’s return the favor with mindful choices every hike. Stay on the trails, respect the wildlife, and leave what you find.
Reaching Beyond the Gates
with Green Acres Interactive Therapy
The morning of March 19th brought a special kind of buzz to the ranch at Green Acres Interactive Therapy. Horses leaned curiously over their stalls, volunteers prepped the grounds with quiet excitement, and the GAIT team moved with a sense of purpose. For the first time, a group of public school students would be spending the day here — exploring, engaging, and connecting in ways that only happen in a place like this.
For Margaret Rich, GAIT’s founder, it was more than a special day. It marked the realization of a long-held vision: to create a welcoming, therapeutic space where public school students — not just those in therapy — could experience the calm, joy, and healing that animals and nature can provide.
Margaret’s heart for these students has never been in question. But making the vision a reality meant working closely with the school district to navigate logistics, safety protocols, and curriculum alignment — all the pieces required to bring students out of the classroom and into an interactive setting.
By 2024, everything was in place — except there wasn’t money available for transportation, and the visit had to be postponed.
In 2025, Margaret quietly stepped in and paid for the buses herself.
Because for her, the experience wasn’t optional — it was essential. And that morning, as students experienced the ranch at their own pace, met the horses, and took in the
ARTICLE BY SEAN ARNETT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
sensory richness of the environment, it was clear: something meaningful was happening. Something worth continuing.
The day was the result of cooperation, trust, and care. Margaret didn’t do it alone — but it wouldn’t have happened without her. And for every student who came, the impact went far beyond a field trip. It was a reminder of what’s possible when vision meets partnership — and when someone cares deeply enough to bring it to life.
If you’d like to help GAIT make this happen again — through sponsorship, volunteering, or simply spreading the word — visit gaitprogram.org. Your support can help turn a powerful moment into an annual tradition.
ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADA REY
Lunchbox Love Notes
Tiny Reminders of Big Love for Back-to-School Days
It's 7:03 AM. You just got back from the gym, hair still in that messy post-workout bun, and now you're gently shaking your can't believe she's 10 year old 5th-grader awake. "Come on, sweet girl, time to get up." She groans, pulls the covers over her head, and you're already mentally calculating if you have enough time to do her hair the way she likes it.
The kitchen is your command center. Protein smoothie for you, protein waffles for her and somewhere between finding her favorite hair clip and signing yet another permission slip, you grab that lunch box.
This is where the magic happens, mama.
Between the apple slices and the string cheese, you slip in something that'll make her smile bigger than when she mastered that trendy dance with her friends: a little note from you.
It's not just paper and a glitter pen. It's a momhug in written form. When she's sitting in that cafeteria, maybe feeling a little small in her bigkid grade, she'll unfold your note and feel brave again. Because someone who thinks the world of her took thirty seconds to remind her she's absolutely incredible.
Fifth grade is big stuff. New teachers. Friends who suddenly care about brands you've never heard of. That sweet spot between wanting to hold mom's hand and wanting to be independent. But your notes? They're her secret confidence boost.
Need some inspiration? Try these:
You're going to absolutely crush today—I believe in you.
Be the friend you'd want to sit with at lunch. Your kindness is what makes you shine.
Math test today? Show it who's boss, smarty pants.
I love watching you become the amazing person you already are.
You make me proud just by being you.
You're brave, you're brilliant, and you're SO loved.
Remember: you've got this, and I've got you.
Here's the thing: it doesn't matter if you write it on a sticky note while your coffee gets cold or if you sketch a quick smiley face on a napkin. What matters is that it came from your heart to theirs. Your handwriting, your words, your love—that's what they'll remember.
Maybe they'll even show their friends. "Look what my mom wrote me!" Because kids that age? They still think you're pretty cool.
LAZY DOG RESTAURANT
DOG BOWL RECIPE
INGREDIENTS:
• 4 oz ground hamburger or 5 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 8 oz cooked white or brown rice
• 2 oz cooked peas and carrots (no seasoning)
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Cook the protein: If using ground hamburger: Brown in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.If using chicken breast: Boil or grill until cooked through, then chop or shred into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions (keep plain. Omit any salt, butter, or seasoning).
3. Steam or boil the veggies: Cook peas and carrots until soft. Avoid adding any seasoning, onions, or garlic.
4. Combine and cool: Mix the cooked protein, rice, and vegetables in a bowl. Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving to your pup.
Note: Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog’s diet.
PERFECT Pet PORTRAITS
BEFORE THE SESSION
Exercise First: A tired pet is often a more cooperative pet. Take dogs for a walk or let cats play with toys before the shoot.
Grooming Basics: Clean ears, trimmed nails, and a fresh bath (but not too fresh—give fur time to settle naturally).
Bring Favorites: Pack their favorite treats, toys, or comfort items to help them feel at ease.
DURING THE PHOTO SESSION
Stay Calm: Pets pick up on your energy. The more relaxed you are, the more comfortable they'll be.
Be Patient : Great shots take time.
Trust the Process: Let the photographer guide the session—they know how to capture your pet's best angles and expressions.
WHAT MAKES A GREAT PET PORTRAIT
The Eyes: Sharp, expressive eyes are the window to your pet's personality
Natural Posture: Authentic poses that reflect how your pet naturally sits, stands, or lies down
Personality Shine: Those little quirks and expressions that make your pet uniquely theirs
Quality Lighting: Professional lighting that brings out fur texture and highlights facial features
Pro Tip: Schedule sessions during your pet's most alert time of day—usually morning or early evening for dogs, and late afternoon for cats.
Picture this: you're scrolling through your phone for that perfect photo of your beloved four-legged family member, and you realize most shots are blurry action shots or awkward selfies where your dog's ears are cut off.
The bond between pets and families runs deeper than words—that's what makes professional pet photography so meaningful.
BY DESIREE A PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
ARTICLE
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tbsp white flour
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
Steps:
BY JANIE JONES
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
• 4 tbsp buttermilk
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 tsp nutmeg or cinnamon
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tbsp of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
ENJOYING SUMMER
In the moments between fishing in our pond and swimming in the pool, our family will celebrate birthdays and have outdoor parties. True to form, I love creating something traditional in an untraditional way. My beach ball garland is a spin-off of the traditional balloon garland. Everyone uses balloon garlands… so let’s make one out of beach balls instead! Everyone serves a birthday cake… how about one carved out of a watermelon for a crazy twist?? I hope you join me in the making of these fun additions to a party!
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEANN PARKER
Beach Ball Garland
Have you ever noticed that when blown up, beach balls have a little plastic loop that forms where they are blown up and sealed? It makes for the perfect place to string twine through and use as an outdoor “balloon” garland! String it up, add some extra beach balls to the pool or yard and you have all the party decorations you need!
Materials
• 2 packs of assorted sized beach balls (assorted 20”, 16” and 12” for a total of 36)
• 1 pack of mini beach balls (5” sized, total of 25)
• Thin rope or twine
• Air pump
Instructions
1. Using an air pump, blow up all the beach balls... It takes a while!
2. Arrange inflated beach balls in a line on the ground, alternating sizes as you go.
3. Starting on one end, thread your string or twine through the blow loop of each beach ball until you reach the end.
4. Tie each end of your beach ball garland to a post or tack to a wall.
Watermelon Cake
A cake that you could eat for breakfast! Made only of fruit and (if you want to go real crazy) some fresh mint and whipped cream too. A few years ago we started making watermelon cakes for our summer birthday celebrations due to one of our little ones suffering from food allergies. In order to make a cake that even she could enjoy, the watermelon cake was born in our lives. Even if you don’t have family or guests with food allergies, this cake is a thriller and loved by all!
Ingredients
• 2 large watermelons
• Assortment of berries and fruit
• 4 wooden skewers
• Toothpicks
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Fresh mint (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep both watermelons by cutting off the rinds and sculpting to create a cylinder shape with a flat top and bottom. Make the bottom cylinder bigger and the top cylinder slightly smaller.
2. Stack your smaller watermelon on top of the larger using wooden skewers to support the center.
3. Use assorted berries and fruit to decorate the outside of your watermelon cake. For the sides of the cake, use toothpicks to help the berries stay in place.
4. Serve alone or with a dollop of homemade whipped cream.
“I love creating something traditional in an untraditional way.”
ONE LOVABLE
Therapy Dog
SPREADING HAPPINESS ACROSS TEMECULA WITH CAROLYN II OF CANINE COMPANIONS
ARTICLE BY AVA SARNOWSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
For fifty years, Canine Companions has offered qualified clients professionally trained service dogs. The non-profit organization operates nationwide, aiming to empower those struggling with their disabilities. Through Canine Companions’ efforts, thousands of service dogs have found homes with children, adults, and veterans who need them. The dogs can be trained to help people regain their independence or to operate within a professional setting for educational or visitation purposes. Among the thousands of beloved canines that have instilled hope and pride within others is a therapy dog that lives here in Temecula.
Carolyn II is a female Labrador, sixty-eight percent golden retriever. She was born on April 30th, 2023, and her favorite game to play is fetch. With rich brown eyes, velveteen-textured ears, and a coat as comforting as the morning sunlight, Carolyn II is an accomplished dog with a mellow personality and so much love to give.
Rosie Vanderhaak, Carolyn’s handler, is well-established within the community. Vanderhaak’s parents moved to Temecula, she followed shortly thereafter in 1972. She began her Temecula career by working in a 750 square foot library inside Tower Plaza. From 2006 to 2023, she managed the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library and contributed to its development. Additionally, she served on the Board of Trustees for the Temecula Valley Unified School District, the Temecula Public Cemetary’s Board of Directors and the Blue-Ribbon Committee for the City’s Quality of Life Master Plan.
Her fifty years' worth of contributions to Temecula are immeasurable, and she shows no signs of stopping. Even after retiring, Vanderhaak continues to volunteer whenever she can across the community. For the last four years she has volunteered for Canine Companions, with Carolyn II being the second dog she has raised. Just recently Vanderhaak and Carolyn II started volunteering at the Temecula Hospital, putting smiles on patient’s faces and spreading the good feelings that come with a loveable dog.
Carolyn II's adorable profile.
Volunteers for Canine Companions, like Vanderhaak, obtain their dogs when they are eight weeks old. They are free to select the dog’s gender, but not the litter they come from. Carolyn II was flown in by private plane from Northern California to Carlsbad, and upon her arrival, was immediately adored.
Carolyn II was still a puppy when she trained for a year and a half to be a service dog. She attended classes in Oceanside, CA twice a month and obtained much of her experience by visiting Vanderhaak’s sister at the hospital. When it came time for Carolyn II to return to Canine Companions for professional training, she went into heat. Due to this, she was too anxious to complete the service dog training. She was released from the program and became Vanderchaak’s pet. When one door closes, another opens. Carolyn’s excellent temperament could not be dismissed. The trainers believed that Carolyn II should become a therapy dog.
As a certified therapy dog, Carolyn II gets to share her affection with everyone. She is intuitive to the needs of those around her, capable of altering her behavior to accommodate their distress. Vanderhaak and Carolyn II visit city facilities often, bringing happiness to seniors, children, and anyone ready to pet her on the
head. At the Temecula Library, Carolyn II is one of the registered therapy dogs associated with the “Paws to Read” program. This program gives children the chance to improve their reading skills in the company of gentle dogs.
Carolyn II has been recognized as a Canine Good Citizen. This test was created by the American Kennel Club, a nonprofit organization focused on dogs. In order to pass this test, dogs learn ten different skills that make them polite members of society. Many often fail due to distractions, but Carolyn II passed on her first attempt.
Carolyn II greets each person with maximum enthusiasm and love. When she’s not among people, she is at home with her family, easing away at their stresses all the same. Vanderhaak has seen firsthand the profound impact Carolyn II can have on others. She recounts instances where the Labrador ventured into the hearts of people who lacked frequent interaction with dogs, evoking positive change through a single encounter. In those moments, she knows that they are making a difference. To discover more about Canine Companions. their beneficial services, and read more heartwarming stories, visit www.canine.org
Carolyn II and Vanderhaak smiling at each another.
Carolyn II receiving an affectionate pet on the back.
Carolyn II smiling for her photo.
ARTICLE BY ZOE ALLEN
CLAY BRACELETS
Are Everywhere and I'm Not Mad About It
My name is Zoe and I just turned 10! I'm going into fifth grade which is pretty exciting but also a little scary. But that's not what this is about.
This is about clay beads and how they're literally EVERYWHERE right now. And I mean everywhere. For Christmas this year, I got like nine different clay bead kits!
So here's the thing about clay beads - last year they started to become popular in my friend group and at school. I can sit there for hours making bracelets.
The best part is that grown-ups actually like them too. My mom asked me to make her an anklet, then earrings and now she's basically obsessed!
We go to Hobby Lobby and Michaels to get new colors. The lady there even asked me to make a bracelet for her granddaughter!
SEPT 27th LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY!
Jr. Bull Riding * Mutton Busting Team Sorting * Ranch Rodeo Mechanical Bull * Activities for all ages
Line Dancing Lessons * Food * Drinks Boutiq Shopping & ! 12pm - 10pm
This magazine is how Sean redefined success
This is more than a role; it’s a platform for purpose. City Lifestyle publishers step into something bigger: the freedom to lead, the fulfillment of impact, and the pride of building something that matters. The opportunity to lead with meaning is calling. Could your next chapter begin here?
Temecula City Lifestyle
Published by Sean Loved by Temecula
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Lifestyle photography for the Temecula Valley and Beyond! Let us capture the special moments in your family’s life! The big game, that special performance or a day at the beach. We’ll capture your Star’s Big Moment!
events
AUGUST 1ST - 3RD
Heiva San Diego
Jr. Seau Oceanside Pier Amphitheater 301 The Strand N, Oceanside, CA 92054
Celebrate Tahitian culture with vibrant dance, delicious food, and live music at this family-friendly festival. A tropical experience you won’t forget! HeivaSanDiego.com
AUGUST 2ND
All Out VW Car Show
1338 Rocky Point Dr, CA 92056-5864, California, Oceanside, United States | 10:00 AM
Classic Volkswagens line the streets of Oceanside for this beloved annual event. Enjoy raffles, food, and a laid-back day of vintage car cruising fun for all ages.
AUGUST 4TH
Crush & Brew - Happy Hour
28544 Old Town Front St. #103 | 4:00 PM
Mon-Friday 4-7pm: Swing by Crush & Brew’s weekly happy hour and enjoy one of three signature dishes—each under $10. Whether you're with friends, family, or coworkers, there’s a seat (and a drink) waiting for you.
AUGUST 5TH
Cougar Vineyard & Winery - Happy Hour
39870 De Portola Rd., Temecula, Ca., 92592 | 2:00 PM
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 p.m., Cougar Vineyard offers a complimentary pizza when you purchase one bottle of red wine or two bottles of white wine. The middle of the week can finally be your favorite time of the week.
AUGUST 16TH - 17TH
48th Annual World Bodysurfing Championships
Oceanside, CA | 6:30 AM
Catch the 48th Annual World Bodysurfing Championships at Oceanside Pier, where over 350 athletes compete in high-energy heats for trophies, prizes, and glory. Prelims run Saturday; finals wrap Sunday. It’s a wave-riding showdown you don’t want to miss. worldbodysurfing.org
AUGUST 24TH
Sunday Funday
Lorimar Winery | 11:00 AM
They don’t call it FUNday for nothing! Enjoy live music, lawn games, local vendors, giveaways, a free golf simulator, $8 beers, 50% off sangria, and more. Lorimar Winery brings the fun every Sunday for the whole family.
