I’ve always had a case of wanderlust and my husband, Tim, was a seasoned traveler long before I met him, so we’ll use any excuse to explore new environs or revisit favorite vacation destinations. We love traveling so much that we have over the years made a conscious effort to impart in our children a similar desire to trek across the country or traipse around the globe. In the 15 years since our son was born, we’ve happily traveled far and wide whether for weekend stay-cations within easy driving distance or longer trips that involved a fair number of planes,…

For the majority of seniors living in California, quality of life equates to living at home. A recent AARP survey reports that 77 percent of seniors want to remain in their home for the long term. The advantages of aging in place are numerous. As we age we want to maintain the highest degree of independence possible. Our home is familiar and comforting to us, it’s where we feel safe.   Throughout the pandemic we have seen our homes become a safe-haven, a place where we can heal and stay healthy. Our home is filled with memories and it’s what…

One of the perks of my job as a magazine editor is being able to interview entrepreneurs in a wide variety of industries - an opportunity for a bit of education on businesses I might not otherwise have had exposure to. In today's market, I've read my share of articles about the importance of hedging against inflation, but it wasn't until I chatted with Ali Soltani, owner of the Dana Point-based Royal Gold Group that I learned about options and benefits in investing in gold and silver. It doesn't hurt that Ali waxes poetic about all kinds of currency like…

After the past few years of waiting to again take to the skies, our family was thrilled to learn that France has lifted Covid restrictions for those flying into the country and lifted mask mandates for those who have their feet on the ground. While many moms like me find that their patience is better these days after having struggled through the past couple of years of a pandemic, I’m certain anything that makes life a little easier is a wonderful respite. One of those things is an easily bookable flight, where you don’t have to spend an arm and…

Highly Custom, Exceptional Quality In Southern California, our backyards and patio are often viewed as an extension of our entertainment spaces - a place for hosting parties, lounging by the pool or in the case of one of our family’s favorite pastimes, dining al fresco. Because so much time is spent outdoors, many folks I know invest as much on their patio furniture as they do in appointing their interiors. The problem is that over time the weather can be particularly hard on the metal and fabrics with constant exposure to the sun, salt air and in the case of…

It’s a remarkable feeling when you can find someone to take your side. In relationships, sports: you name it. That one person who believes in you, makes you better, fights alongside you. Michael Cefali matched with his person (his wife Courtney) long before law school - but their partnership extended through the long years studying for the bar and paid off in an even match that has stacked up in their favor many times over. Graduates of Chapman Law and California Western, respectively, they started the San Juan Capistrano-based Cefali & Cefali, APC in July of 2019 and have been…

This all-new park is sure to be the must-visit destination for any time of the year with a perfect mixture of water slides and attractions, rides, shows, a parade and so much more in one experience. Sesame Place offers 18 Sesame Street-themed rides and exciting water attractions, including a family-friendly rollercoaster, wave pool and lazy river, plus rides and waters slides, all included with park admission. Conveniently located just 20 minutes from San Diego and 2.5 hours from Los Angeles, park-goers on the West Coast will finally be able to easily hug their favorite furry friends and take a stroll…

This summer, escape to the sparkling shores of Mission Bay, San Diego’s 4,600-acre aquatic playground, featuring endless recreational activities and two spectacular resorts, the Bahia Resort Hotel and Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, that were made for memorable family-friendly getaways. From sun up to sun down, there’s always something entertaining to do at the Catamaran Resort, where it’s “island time, all the time,” and the Bahia Resort featuring the very best of the beach. Island Vibes Say “Aloha!” to the Catamaran Resort, San Diego’s original Polynesian-inspired hotel, featuring a popular bayside luau that’s fun for the whole family and several…

I might be dating myself here, but I much prefer handwritten greetings to electronic missives. Whether it arrives in the mail or is hand-delivered, receiving a special occasion - or no occasion at all - card or gift is all the more meaningful because of the thought and time involved versus simply typing out a quick text and emoji. My daughter loves to send cards to the people she loves, “to cheer them up,” “celebrate a special occasion,” “say thank you” or to just let someone know she’s thinking of them. If it’s obvious to a child that people need…

When someone says “festival season” to me, the one of the first things that comes to mind is Coachella. But long before the annual music and arts festival began in Palm Desert, another season entirely captured America’s imagination: that of Louisiana’s favorite French city. With over 100 festivals year round, New Orleans is the prime destination for any type of vacation - but is especially friendly for families in the summer months. From art and music to food and drink, seasonal celebrations, tours and an abundance of attraction, there is always something to do day or night on the banks…

There are many sayings about the alaudidae, or lark, as you are more likely to know it. To be specific, only the horned lark makes North America its home, but to be “happy as a lark,” “carefree as a lark,” “up with the larks,” “on a lark” is to be carefree, whimsical, salubrious, energetic, lighthearted. All characteristic, I discovered, of The LARK Bozeman. A boutique hotel with a unique and vibrant designation, the space focuses its attention on the world beyond its walls - yet never forgets an important interior detail. With a focus primarily on creating simple yet modern…

Household cleaners, pesticides, pet dander, dust, pollen, tobacco smoke, mold, bacteria, pathogens and viruses - these are all indoor air pollutants that can make you and your family sick. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the term “Sick Building Syndrome” is used to describe situations in which occupants experience acute health and comfort issues that appear to be linked to time spent in a building with poor air quality. A World Health Organization Committee report suggests that up to 30 percent of new and remodeled structures worldwide may be the subject of excessive complaints related to indoor air…

Paradise for Any Season For most of the world, sun-soaked Southern California holds a special mystique. Temperate weather year-round, and postcard worthy landscapes with rolling hills, breathtaking surf, and the cinematic charm of Hollywoodland itself. For those of us lucky enough to reside in the region, the mystique can be a bit more localized - a home beach or perfect trail out the back door. Our family loves to "stay-cation" in San Diego and Carlsbad tops the list of favorite locales. Tucked between the white capped Pacific and some of the best golf courses in North America rests one of…

The Fastest Growing E-Bike Company in Dana Point Quite a lot of us are staying closer to home when we decide to venture out, and Doheny Bike has adapted its entire business to stay with its customer every step of the way. Emerging as the fastest-growing e-bike company in Dana Point, it’s by design that Jason Spates and his team have expanded their offerings, grown in their community presence, and are actively giving back. Folks are looking for an easy way to stay active and see the neighborhood. Luckily, Doheny Bike has the local intel, and a unique “fold-n-go” bike…

I have to admit - I’m pretty particular when it comes to deciding where to go for dinner on date night, out for a family meal or simply stepping out to enjoy a glass of fine wine and live entertainment after work. Lucky for me, I live in San Juan and am only a stone’s throw from a popular eatery that dishes up all this and delicious Italian cuisine to boot: Brio Tuscany Grille. This place isn’t the kind of establishment that has huge, bedazzled lights pointing to it with acrobatic sign holders out front. This restaurant respects itself in…

Pismo Beach has long been a coastal playground. Its rich history includes Chumash villages and early California explorers including Don Gaspar de Portola. Legends surround the area and the many hands the land has passed through. Wharf businesses, tar collection, hotels, cattle and outdoor recreation still abound in varying degrees, but the stunning beach hasn’t changed one bit. One of the best and most comprehensively family friendly destinations in all of California, Pismo truly has something to offer all ages. From families playing in the surf at Shell Beach to wine tastings and outdoor activities, there isn’t much mystery to…

Though the groundhog warned us about eight more weeks of winter, the fact remains that spring is on its way. And with the change of seasons always comes an exciting time in food - especially at your favorite restaurants. My favorite go-to for a fine dining night out is Laguna Beach’s own award-winning Selanne Steak Tavern. Located in an exquisitely charming historic 1934 home on PCH the tavern is known for its delicious seasonal fare: locally farmed and fished so you get the freshest entrees and sides imaginable - from succulent steaks and chops, superb poultry, game and seafood, artisan…