Publisher’s Note
While school is out, we often feel the call to get out of town and escape our everyday lives. Traveling abroad sounds fantastic until we discover the high seasonal fees, long lines, and heat waves, not to mention the tourist traps. Along this vein, we’ve prepared for you an issue devoted to outdoor living, adventure, and experiencing life to the fullest – all closer to home.
In my opinion, the essential ingredients for a perfect summer day include a local hike (see “Hiking to Happiness” on page 16) and a delicious brunch, followed by an outdoor activity in the company of people I love. For the times I choose to be alone, meditation, a good book, and a quiet massage at my favorite spa is my ticket to the perfect getaway.
Of course, this is also the season for enjoying a summer concert or live theater, as well as exploring new eateries. There’s nothing better than spending a day with an agenda open to doing the things I appreciate most. This is the beauty of the season – the simplest things in life become the source of my greatest joy.
Summer tends to take me back to my childhood, where life was put on hold. The season is sort of a timeout in the midst of our busy world. Whether you’ve planned a family trip (check out “Family Packing Tips” on page 49) or intend to go back home to visit family (read “Homeward Bound” on page 48), we provide simple solutions to make the most of your family adventures.
A beautiful home that sets the mood for year-round entertaining is ideal. This may include an enchanting fire or water feature, an arbor cover featuring lush foliage, a beautiful pool, backyard sports courts, an outdoor kitchen, or the perfect lounge with seating in a relaxing setting. Adding to your ambience is uniting the inside with the outside. See “Balancing Act” on page 34 to learn how to extend and fully enjoy your living area. Before you get started, you may want to check out “Creating Paradise in Your Own Backyard” on page 36 to be reminded it’s your backyard, therefore it should be your paradise. Check out the professionals in this issue who can assist you in designing your ideal home.
If you’re feeling a bit nostalgic, then I suggest exploring “Adventure Awaits on Route 66” on page 12. I think you’ll want to venture out there yourself.
Keeping it simple is the best formula for any summer getaway. “The Happiness You Own” on page 14 and “Creating the Best Summer Memories” on page 53 offer up reminders to keep life uncomplicated and in perspective.
We’re so fortunate to live in Southern California, where people from all over the world come to visit. We can enjoy the great outdoors, incredible getaways, fabulous entertainment, and local events right here in our own backyard. Check out “Take Time to Get Away!” on page 33 and take a peek at our Local Attractions starting on page 7 – consider these two articles your local vacation cheat sheet.
Whatever your adventure level happens to be, I hope you thoroughly enjoy all your summer escapes. Before we do, however, let’s take a step back and cherish our lives and the country we live in, while appreciating the sacrifices people made to give us the freedom we enjoy today. Our freedom did not come free. Please read “Home of the Brave” on page 58 before enjoying the sights and sounds of the 4th of July.
Until the next issue, be safe and don’t forget to love, laugh, and live more!
