Machel’s Ranch

Magical moments this holiday season, The Book Cellar and an important mission

If you could go back in time and be a child again, would you? I have often heard others ponder their childhood with many warm-hearted memories. What was it about being young that seems elusive to us as we find ourselves in a wide open field in the midst of our lives? Could it be [...]

Caring for the soul, winners and fabulous birthday trips under the eucalyptus trees

Do you have the courage to be real? Do you show your true colors or are you just one those faking it to fit in on your cul-de-sac? If the latter applies, you are missing out on the fundamental joys of who you are on the inside. Your soul is all you’ve got. And, if [...]

Sassy Santa, a trip to La Paz and more from around the Ranch

Miss Krista Lafferty is proud to be a Rancho Santa Fe Rotarian. Not only is she a member, she is active in the club. The Rancho Santa Fe News’ assistant advertising manager has been a popular face around town in Rancho Santa Fe for over the last two years. If you aren’t in the Rotary, [...]

Charity events, smart women and an inspirational story

Do you believe in angels? I do. I have never seen one in person, but have often thought, in retrospect, after meeting someone under an odd circumstance, that that person could have been an angel. Recently, I watched a show called “Angels Among Us,” which is a television series based on those individuals that believe [...]

As Mr. Allen said, ‘The heart wants what the heart wants’

What happens when friends stop being friends? I’m sure you have experienced that one wonderful relationship that suddenly goes sour and your phone stops ringing. What’s funny about friends not being friends anymore is that, when you break up with a man you can rationalize it. A woman can find reasons why and make a [...]

Back to school, book tales, and parties in Rancho Santa Fe

Do you sometimes feel like a book chooses you? I do. An avid book reader and a frequent shopper at Book Tales in Rancho Santa Fe, you could say that I’ve had this experience on several occasions at different moments on my own life’s journey. Sometimes in life, it feel like there are synchronicities existing, [...]

Let’s find a solution: Let’s find a smile and a value, America

I’m not one to really delve deeply into political debates.  However, lately I have noticed a very nasty trend: Complaining about America. I know. Life isn’t perfect and neither is our nation. With that statement out of the way, there is something to be said about honoring our country and valuing our freedom. There is something to be [...]

It was another summer to remember in Rancho Santa Fe

Can you believe that schools starts in Rancho Santa Fe in less than two weeks? As I watch each store pile up more school supplies in their front aisles, it’s apparent the summer sand crystals are washing away with the tide of the season. Most commercials you see on television are bombarding you with last [...]

The importance of being earnest in our friendships

Oscar Wilde once said, “A true friend stabs you in the front.”  Originally, I was planning on sharing an over-the-top sappy friendship quote. However, after reading Wilde’s quote, I redirected my thoughts on the subject of friendship. Figuring out the darker shades in our relationships is just as important as highlighting the sunny sides, too. [...]

We are truly blessed to be living in America

While many in Rancho Santa Fe celebrated the parade on July 4, I was out of town for the first time in years during this particular weekend. I spent my holiday back in Spirit Lake, Iowa with my family. I know what you are thinking — rows of corn, flat fields and a fly over [...]