Idyllic Nature Resort is City-Close

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

From the beaches to the mountains, deserts, and more, people are planning their vacations with sustainability in mind. Not just looking at the amenities, things to do, and sights to see, travelers are choosing hotels and resorts that are environmentally friendly.

Perched on 87 acres at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is as proud of its environmentally friendly practices as it is of its idyllic setting.

SurfWriter Girls Sunny and Patti were eager to visit this Surfrider Foundation sponsor that’s made sustainability a key part of its core mission.

From the Ranch’s casual dining outdoor restaurant, The Porch, we had a view of the surrounding hills and golf course. Quiet and serene, it’s a spot to linger and let the day unfold.

The resort’s staff told us that an onsite farm provides food for its tables and a grove of trees on the property absorbs carbon dioxide. Whether it’s composting or reclaiming water, The Ranch does everything possible to reduce its environmental footprint.

The Ranch’s fine dining restaurant, Harvest, is certified by Surfrider as an “Ocean Friendly Restaurant” serving sustainably sourced food and utilizing reusable and recyclable methods that eliminate waste and damage to the environment.

Focusing on dishes made with their own seasonal produce and craft beers and wine made in-house, Harvest’s menu mixes “old favorites with a few twists.” Lunch includes a tri-tip sandwich and wild shrimp tacos. For dinner, red wine braised short ribs, crispy duck, and white wine steamed mussels. Desserts range from apple pie to sticky toffee pudding.

The resort’s amenities reflect its natural environment with a scenic 9-hole golf course, rustic swimming pool, fire pits, hiking trails, wellness spa, and paddle board and surfing lessons.

Rated a Four Diamond Hotel by the Automobile Club of Southern California, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is part of the Beyond Green sustainable properties hospitality group.

With just a small sign to mark its entrance on a canyon road off PCH (31106 Coast Highway), this SoCal getaway gem is easy to miss, but it’s worth looking for.

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

Searching for Buried Treasure

Written by SurfWriter Girls Suny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

On a perfect winter day when the holiday beach crowds were gone, SurfWriter Girls Sunny and Patti decided to put our metal detector to the test and see if we could find any buried treasure at Seal Beach.

Patti’s husband Greg gave her the detector a while ago, but this was the first time we had a chance to use it. We were excited with visions of finding lost jewelry and valuables or maybe a pirate’s stash of gold coins like in this Treasure Island book that Patti’s dad had when he was a child.

Scanning the sand, we listened carefully for the metal detector’s clicking sounds.

If smugglers from the early days of California had buried treasure on the beach they would have needed to be able to find it again, but where did X mark the spot?

Each time we heard a beep we started digging, only to come up empty. Nothing. Not even an empty can or bottle cap. Being a Beachcomber isn’t as easy as it looks.

One of the most famous beachcombers of all, Don the Beachcomber, didn’t make his fortune on the beach, but by opening a Polynesian nightclub with exotic, tropical drinks.

At the end of the day, the only treasure we had to show for our efforts came from a store – this Pirate’s Booty snack mix. And Greg quickly claimed that for himself.

What can we say, matey? “Arrgh.”

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

The Treat You Love to Eat

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

Now that baseball season is going into the final stretch, people will be eating lots of Cracker Jack treats at the games. For over 150 years the familiar Cracker Jack popcorn-and-peanuts treat has been satisfying snack attacks from picnic grounds to baseball stadiums. The crunchy confection that originated in Chicago in the 1870s has worldwide appeal.

Instantly recognizable in the red, white and blue box with Sailor Jack and his dog Bingo on the front, the snack was innovative from the beginning – from its molasses-coated, caramel popcorn and peanuts mixture to the wax paper package liner that keeps it fresh.

Frederick Rueckheim, a German immigrant, started selling the snack that would become the crowd favorite when he came to Chicago after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In 1899, Henry Gottleib Ekstein helped it keep its crunch when he developed the Cracker Jack “waxed sealed package” for freshness.

Putting the power of marketing to use, Cracker Jack’s slogan “The More You Eat, The More You Want.” was registered in 1896. And later the tagline: “Candy coated popcorn, peanuts and a prize.”

Cracker Jack hit a home run in 1908 when it showed up in the popular song “Take me out to the Ballgame” (“Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack, I don’t care if I never come back.”). Already an American classic, the song made it a fan favorite at events everywhere.

And how about the prizes?  In 1912 Cracker Jack began putting prizes in every box. Reflecting Americana over the next 100 years, prizes ranged from baseball cards, miniature books and stickers to figurines, rings, space age toys and 1960s “Flower Power” pins.

Highly collectible now, The Schiffer Collectors book even tracks the prizes and prices.

Cracker Jack and its coveted prizes showed up in the 1961 movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard share a box and find a prize inside. A ring they eventually get engraved at Tiffany’s jewelry store where the surprised sales associate asks if they got it there.

Prizes inside the boxes were discontinued in 2016.  By then, 23 billion prizes had been given out around the world. But, in keeping with new technology, the boxes now have QR codes that you can scan for gifts.

Just as it did from the start, the popcorn treat we all love to eat (“Crack a pack of Cracker Jack, you’re bound to crack a smile.”) continues to find ways to innovate and surprise us.

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

Chill Out in Style!

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

When the summer days get hot, what better shirt is there to chill out in than a cool, colorful Hawaiian shirt?

Also known as an Aloha shirt, the colorful, short-sleeve shirts originated in Hawaii in the 1920s and became popular on the mainland after WW II when soldiers stationed on the islands brought them home.

Movies like Rodgers and Hammerstein’s blockbuster musical South Pacific (1958)

and Elvis Presley’s Blue Hawaii (1962) jump-started the island-themed fashion trend even more.

President John F. Kennedy added to the Hawaiian shirt mystique, too, wearing them while sailing or relaxing at his family’s Cape Cod home in Hyannis Port, MA.

So did Tom Selleck in the hit TV show Magnum P.I. and singer Jimmy Buffett while “wasting away” in Margaritaville.

And now, fashion brands from Tommy Bahama to Ralph Lauren and Prada feature the carefree shirts in their lineups.

Originally embellished with traditional Hawaiian quilt and flower designs, the shirts have taken on a wilder life of their own with palm trees, birds, sunsets, cocktail glasses, and more showing up.

If you’re looking for an authentic Hawaiian shirt made by descendants of the original Polynesians, SurfWriter Girls friend Jeffrey Sakamoto, who’s become an expert on island lore, recommends the shirts from Pili Pacific, which utilizes the Tahitian-inspired designs of co-founders Sue Pearson and Herman Pi’ikea Clark.

A must-have for anyone spending time in the islands, whatever you choose, the fun-to-wear Hawaiian shirts bring a taste of the tropics wherever they go…and bring out the party animal in us.

A shirt you can wear tucked in or out – no necktie required! – a Hawaiian shirt takes you anywhere in style…even if it’s just inside your own home.

Mahalo to SurfWriter Greg for taking the photo of us…and all the other photos he always takes! He’s our production crew working behind the scenes.

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

Get Your Martini Shaken, Not Stirred

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

Looking for the chance to say, “Bond, James Bond” or to order your martini “Shaken, not stirred”? Then get ready to check in at the Jamaican resort GoldenEye, the former home of author Ian Fleming.

Fleming wrote fourteen James Bond novels here.

Named after a WWII mission Fleming devised during his years in British intelligence, GoldenEye is a lush, coastal property that Fleming’s villains would have favored

Spread out over 52-acres, the luxury, get-away features dazzling beaches and private coves, tropical forests, and a saltwater lagoon – with a variety of beach huts, cottages, and villas where you can stay.

In 1952 Fleming wrote his first Bond novel, Casino Royale, at GoldenEye. Using the Caribbean island setting as a common locale in his adventure stories, the movies Dr. No and Live and Let Die were both filmed nearby.

Located on the North coast of Jamaica on Oracabessa Bay, the resort is built around Fleming’s original villa. When SurfWriter Girl Patti worked for Delta Airlines she visited Ocho Rios just a few minutes away and saw firsthand how beautiful and secluded the area is.

Along with relaxing on the beach and enjoying gourmet meals, it’s definitely a place to inspire a sense of adventure whether you go exploring, snorkeling or paddleboarding. Or pick up a pen and try writing your own spy thriller.

And don’t be surprised who you run into while you’re here. Fleming hosted many notables at GoldenEye, including Princess Margaret and Breakfast at Tiffany’s author Truman Capote. Celebrities Sting, Michael Caine, Pierce Brosnan, Grace Jones, and Richard Branson have all vacationed at the island retreat.

Truly a resort fit for a spy, the amenities at GoldenEye include a license to thrill.

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

Summer Totes are Essential

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel 

A classic summer beach bag or tote is essential when you’re out and about, making a run to the store, spending a day at the beach, or traveling on an adventure.

When we’re on the go SurfWriter Girls Sunny and Patti love all the styles there are to keep our supplies, purchases, and finds close at hand.

Whether it’s a simple canvas or straw carryall, a reusable bag from the grocery store…

or a fashionista tote. Something big enough for a beach towel or with lots of pockets.

It can be colorful and fun, support a cause, or make a statement.

Using a Surfrider Foundation bag helps protect our beaches.

Proceeds from FEED Projects bags feed hungry children.

Whatever you’re up to, there’s a bag that’s just right for you – to stash your stuff, store a camera, travel guides and souvenirs, carry groceries or even a French baguette.

For a day in the sun or errands to run,

when you head to the beach keep a tote bag in reach!

It can be fun and kitschy or glam and ritzy.

Bright and breezy, it makes things easy.

Perfect for snacks and fruit, sunglasses and loot.

Seashells you find on the shore, things you buy at the store.

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

Put Your Best Foot Forward!

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

American philosopher Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862), known for his book Walden about his two-years spent living alone in nature, viewed walking as a time to organize his thoughts and take in the beauty around him.

Walking is something that can benefit all of us – as part of our morning routine, afternoon break, or evening relaxation. With no equipment or gym membership needed, walking has been called “Earth’s easiest exercise.” Just put on some comfortable shoes and go.

Walking not only helps to condition our muscles and strengthen our bones, but it increases our ability to use oxygen more efficiently, which reduces the risks of a heart attack or stroke.

It helps to keep our weight at a desired level and can make it easier to manage diabetes by providing better blood sugar control.

Walking even reduces stress and depression, putting more spring in our step with each step.

Hippocrates (460 BC-370 BC), the Greek physician known as the Father of Medicine, made his views on walking clear: “Walking is a man’s best medicine.”

SurfWriter Girls agree. There’s a beautiful world waiting for you to explore – one step at a time.

Walk fast or slow.

Take big steps or little steps.

Just Go!

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

Giving Yourself Space to Breathe

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

With so many things going on in the world it’s easy to find yourself on a merry-go-round that never stops. Fortunately, SurfWriter Girls recently learned about a Japanese concept that can help to put on the brakes.

The Japanese concept of Yutori – “living with spaciousness” – is the opposite of riding the merry-go-round. It’s a philosophy that embraces slowing things down and giving yourself “room to breathe.” More than just physical space, it emphasizes mental and emotional space to take in the world around you and savor it.

Yutori is essentially a refusal to rush. It calls on you to focus on being in the moment, to appreciate the beauty around you and the joy of life.

A core factor of Yutori is contentment, the feeling of being at peace and not putting undue pressure on yourself to always be “doing” something.

While achieving the ideals of Yutori may seem unattainable, especially in a society that values multi-tasking, it can start with simple steps. One thing the Japanese do to slow down is to leave early when they’re going someplace. That way they don’t feel rushed if it takes longer to get there. And, if they see someone they know on the way, they have time to stop and talk.

Taking time-outs from your phone or computer periodically can also enable you to focus on the present – doing an activity you enjoy like reading or a hobby. Or simply allowing for periods of quiet and stillness to relax and be at one with your environment or to explore your thoughts.

Scheduling intentional gaps in your daily activities is another way to give yourself space. To let your mind wander, to dream, be creative and recharge. Even ten-minute mini-breaks throughout the day can work wonders.

So can adopting Yutori’s minimalist approach. Decluttering your physical space and schedule so that you can see the things that really matter.

Japanese cleaning expert extraordinaire Marie Kondo emphasized this in her bestselling book, the life-changing magic of tidying up, introducing the world to the calming effects of decluttering to create spaciousness in our environment and mind.

And realizing that less is more.

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.

Carnegie, Hill & Peale Motivated Millions

Written by SurfWriter Girls Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel

Navigating the twists and turns of life to achieve success can be like trying to stay on top of a fast-moving wave.

From the 1930s through the 1960s and beyond, people seeking fortune and fame have turned to three renowned authors and motivational speakers to show them the way – Dale Carnegie, Napoleon Hill, and Norman Vincent Peale.

From the Great Depression to post-WWII affluence, these motivators’ signature books focusing on positive thinking inspired millions around the world to turn their ideas, hard work, and dreams into personal and professional success.

Dale Carnegie’s core advice in How to Win Friends and Influence People (1936) is simple. The key to positive interactions with others is to show a genuine interest in them. “Don’t criticize, condemn, or complain.” Before pointing out someone’s mistakes, draw attention to your own. He said, “The only way to influence people is to talk about what they want and show them how to get it.”

Born on a Missouri farm in 1888, Carnegie had little money growing up but turned his public speaking and sales skills into a training empire – The Dale Carnegie Institute – teaching interpersonal and sales skills to people eager to climb the corporate ladder or start businesses.

Carnegie’s approach was in stark contrast to many other business people and leaders of his day – rather than focusing on being tough, he emphasized being kind. Encouraging, rather than belittling others. He said politeness was essential, noting that “all anyone wants is to be appreciated.”

Napoleon Hill’s main advice in Think and Grow Rich (1937) is: “Do it now.” Rather than waiting for the perfect idea or the perfect time, he said, “Start now with what you have and find better tools along the way.” He felt that the main obstacle to success was us, saying, “The only limitations are those we set up in our own minds.”

Born in a cabin in Virginia in 1883, Hill was from humble beginnings, writing his book at the height of the Great Depression. Identifying thirteen principles to achieve success, the book draws on Hills’ interviews with successful people, including Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and Andrew Carnegie, to determine what behaviors lead to success.

Hill thought that having a “definiteness of purpose” in life was critical to staying on the right track. He also recommended forming a “mastermind alliance” with like-minded people to cooperatively work toward achieving mutual goals.

Norman Vincent Peale’s key advice in The Power of Positive Thinking (1952)  is “Believe in yourself.”  He taught a “Three C’s” approach to positive thinking: Change, Commitment and Consistency. To change your life for the better, be committed and consistent. “Keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply, expect little, give much. Fill your life with love.”

A Protestant clergyman born in Ohio in 1898, Peale’s teachings mix theology and psychology, emphasizing the power that comes from a higher being and one’s own efforts. He encouraged people to be creative, saying, “Imagination is the true magic carpet.” Peale wrote 46 books and was on radio and TV for decades, hosting The Art of Living and What’s Your Trouble?

Peale believed there is a rhythm in life that we need to tune into to reduce stress and renew energy. He saw it in: “the roaring of the surf upon the sand…the rhythm of our own heart beats…the rhythmic and harmonious flow of nature itself…and the energy of Almighty God.” By aligning ourselves with this rhythm, we can find the right “tempo” to achieve our goals.

Carnegie…Hill…Peale. These three 20th Century thinkers, writers and motivators have left lasting marks on the concept of what it takes to succeed, still inspiring people today…and reminding us of the tidal wave of positive power contained in our own thoughts and dreams.

Surf’n Beach Scene Magazine

SurfWriter Girls

Sunny Magdaug and Patti Kishel hold the exclusive rights to this copyrighted material. Publications wishing to reprint it may contact them at surfwriter.girls@gmail.com Individuals and non-profit groups are welcome to post it on social media sites as long as credit is given.