1 2018 january, february, march by The Joles Group

reflections Rosemary Joles

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” -R. Collier

n 2017 I was introduced to the book The 12 Week Year by author Brian Moran. The premise of the book is if you set your intentions or goals during a 12-week period, you will accomplish more in those 12 weeks than you will all year. I do know that when we set a goal and then get close to the deadline, we scramble to achieve it. (Are you raising your hand saying, “That’s me”?) In the process, we shortchange ourselves in being all that we can be. I have to admit that at first I was extremely skeptical. Realtors are often pitched that this gimmick, gadget, or system is going to change their lives and make them more successful. So I watched someone I know well do the 12-week year first. I wasn’t about to eat that dangled carrot, only to discover that it was another Peter Rabbit fairy-tale yet again. When this person said it went well for her, I jumped in with both feet. I started my first 12 weeks in September. The author suggests choosing three things you want to accomplish. I chose a health goal, a goal for my home, and a work goal. I achieved my health and home goals, and while I didn’t completely achieve my work goal, the work I put forth during those 12 weeks enabled me to achieve it in December. These are the things that I learned during those 12 weeks.  I waste time. Statistics say that the average worker wastes 2.09 hours per day. That little stat makes me grateful that I don’t have any employees. The “oh, look a kitty” or “squirrel” syndrome is alive and well in this woman’s life. I had to train myself to focus, to stop looking at my phone, email, Facebook, text’s, etc., and any other thing that could take me off task. I focused on being intentional with my time so that I worked on what was most important to the life values I chose in 2017. If you are wondering what I’m talking about, go to Issue 1 of 2017, where I wrote about living our values instead of our goals. Yes, I know I’m using the word goals, but the ones I chose aligned with my values.  I focus too much on the outcome rather than getting the task done at hand. Yes, I would look at what my goals were daily, and why I wanted to achieve them. However, when all you do is focus on those goals and not “do,” you get nada. So I blocked out time each week to make sure I was “doing” instead of just talking.  There is a negative committee that regularly convenes inside my head. Going through this process took all my excuses away, and I finally told that committee to take a hike! Note: They do show up now and again, but I’m getting much better at recognizing they are there and reframe what is happening in between my ears.  I’m a Lone Ranger. Many agents are. However, in the book it suggests to team up with another person, not so much to be an accountability partner, but more so as a person to check in with. This can be a motivator for some. Who wants to go into a weekly meeting and confess they didn’t accomplish what they intended? It definitely was a motivator for me. So with the New Year, I am choosing to do another 12 weeks four times, instead of just once. As I grow older, I have a sense of urgency to accomplish more in my life than I ever have in the past. I’m excited to see what 2018 brings. I really do believe being an active participant in my life will help me achieve what I set forth to do, instead of sitting back and letting life happen to me. If you would like to know more about The 12 Week Year, pick up the book or go to their website 12weekyear.com. FROM THE FRONT PORCH JOURNAL january/february/march contributors:

Front Cover Photography

Reflections: Rosemary Joles A Note from Rosemary: Rosemary Joles Mortgage Memo: Carolyn Plummer On Our Porch: Rosemary Joles Feels Like Home: Lisa Vasey Transforming Spaces: Cheryl Starbuck Taxes 911: Jesse Lipscomb The Nibblers Digest: Marco Sawrey & Karin Zonis-Sawrey The Cork Connoisseur: Beth Fraitag La Jolla Shores: Sburel | Dreamsime.com Upcycle: Gail and Jim Hallemeyer Travel The World: Beth Taylor Travel San Diego: Rosemary Joles Useless Knowledge: Todd Joles Bravo and Mia Bites: Todd Joles Books or Blogs: Todd Joles Podsibilities: Todd Joles Photo credits if not noted: dreamstime.com & Rosemary Joles Editing for Rosemary’s Articles: Barbara Allen

contents

JANUARY. FEBRUARY, MARCH

2018

departments

2 4/5 6/7

8/9 10/11 12 13 14/15 16/17

19 20/21

18 From the Front Porch Journal Published by and compliments of:

Rosemary Joles

REALTOR®, Cal BRE # 01095314

619·405·7673 Homes@LivinInSD.com LivinInSD.com 258 N. El Camino Real, Ste. C Encinitas, CA 92024

Follow our blog at: LivinInSD.com Like us on Facebook at: Facebook.com/LivinInSD Follow us on Pinterest Pinterest.com/rosemaryjoles/

22/23

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reflections the real estate brief a note from rosemary the mortgage memo home on our porch –encinitas enclave feels like home –flooring part 4 nitty gritty organize it –clutter taxes 911 –short term home rentals bon vivant the nibbler digest –tajima ramen the cork connoisseur –going grey time-out –butterfly farms et cetera where’s rosemary delish –crustless vegetable quiche around our town –la jolla shores voyage travel the world –island getaways travel san diego –liberty station minutia useless knowledge bravo and mia bites rosebud’s garden –pedilanthus bracteatus upcycle –the fun and challenge of upcycling bits and pieces ponderings podsibilities books or blogs park exploration –ntc park sd word find –native california plants-1 lifestyle sd theatre sd adventures sd concerts domiciles from east county to the coast tidbits front porch wisdom out of the mouths remember when –balboa theater

a note from rosemary “There is something permanent, and something extremely profound, in owning a home.” -Kenny Guinn his is the eighth of what will probably be 11 articles on the home buying process. When you do something for a living, you often don’t realize just how much is involved until you start writing down the process. It absolutely boggles my mind. In the last issue, we discussed various disclosures that a seller provides the buyer. We are now going to discuss disclosures that are given to the buyer and seller by the brokerages or agents that represent the buyer or the seller.

We will begin with documents that an agent gives to a buyer or seller with the offer. One of the very first documents that a buyer or seller receives is an AD (Disclosure Regarding Real Estate Agency Relationship). This form is required by civil code 2079.13 to 2079.24 and discusses what a buyer’s and seller’s agent’s obligations are to each party of the transaction. It also covers what responsibilities are required if an agent is representing both parties (dual agency). You will find within this document words like honesty, good faith, utmost care, integrity, and loyalty. It also states that if legal or tax advice is needed that the buyer or seller should contact a competent professional. Next on the list is an Affiliated Business Arrangement Disclosure. This form makes the buyer or seller aware if there are any third parties involved in the transaction, such as when the real estate brokerage has a business relationship or a financial interest. Generally, this could be anything from insurance companies, escrow, home warranty companies, etc. Also with the offer the buyer receives an MCA (Market Condition Advisory). I call this form the cooling-off form. In the frenzy of multiple offers, a buyer will sometimes give away their contingencies just so they can get the property. As brokers or agents we advise against this. Giving this form to the buyer when they are writing their offer helps them to really consider what they are doing. It speaks to how market conditions can be a seller’s market or buyer’s market and the potential risks to those changing market conditions. It talks about buyers writing those noncontingent offers, the dos and don’ts of loan, appraisal, and inspection contingencies. It also discusses buyers submitting offers to multiple owners, and how they could be buying more San Diego County Market Update for 2017 than one property if they are submitting Home Type % Change 2016-2017 Median Sold Price Days on Market offers without making the sellers aware they are doing so. We found this strategy to be Detached +7.2% $600,000 31 quite prevalent in the season when there Attached +8% $398,500 24 were many short sales happening. This form also advises sellers on the value of a property and how, while an agent will give them comparable homes that have sold in the area, ultimately it is up to the sellers to decide what they want to list their property for and what price they want to accept for their home. The PRBS (Possible Representation of More Than One Buyer or Seller-Disclosure and Consent) discloses to a buyer and seller how a brokerage represents many different buyers and sellers and the impact that has on either party. It discusses dual agency again, and also lets buyers know their offer may not be confidential. Because hackers and scammers are alive and well and unsuspecting buyers have unknowingly wired funds to hackers and scammers, we have now had to make buyers aware that they need to confirm wiring instructions with their escrow officer, along with other ways to prevent their funds from being stolen, utilizing the WFA (Wire Fraud Advisory). In the next issue, we will conclude what brokerages give to a buyer and seller. In the meantime, if you are considering buying or selling this year or next, it’s never too early to seek the advice of a real estate professional and lender. I can be reached at 619.405.7673 or at homes@livininsd.com.

the real estate brief

carolyn’s mortgage memo it may be wise to get a second opinion t is important to trust your real estate team, including your agent, lender, home inspector etc. Purchasing a home is usually the biggest financial transaction you have ever made. I always encourage home buyers to go with a lender recommended to them either by their agent or a trusted person in their sphere, but if you are not getting the answers you want or the service you expect, it would be wise to check with another lender. In a previous From the Front Porch Journal, I told the story of Lino and his family that moved here from Mexico, became a citizen, started a business and purchased his first home. One weekend at a family gathering, Lino was speaking with his niece and nephew, Jamie and Maggie. Jamie and Maggie were expressing their frustration regarding the whole home purchase process. They had been working with an agent and lender for over 6 months and couldn’t find anything in the price range they had been pre-approved. The price range was lower than they had expected and they weren’t able to qualify for VA financing as they had hoped. So instead of buying a home on their own with little or no down payment, they had to have Maggie’s father co-sign for them on FHA financing with monthly mortgage insurance and have funds gifted to them from a family member for the down payment. As they watched their friends and family buying homes, Jamie and Maggie became more and more disillusioned.

Lino told them to call me to see what I could do for them. Naturally, they were hesitant to do so at first as they were comfortable with their current lender. However, Maggie called me and we discussed their situation. As we talked, I asked why they were not pre-approved for VA financing. She explained they had been told that they couldn’t do VA financing based on Jamie’s recent job history after leaving the military. I explored the details of his job history further and they could in fact qualify for VA financing. I believe the problem was their lender just wasn’t as familiar with VA guidelines as I am. By switching them over to VA financing, Jamie and Maggie were now able to purchase in a higher sales price range and still keep their payment comparable to what it was with FHA financing with mortgage insurance. Also they would no longer needed gift funds for a down payment or Maggie’s father to co-sign for them. I am happy to report that Jamie and Maggie moved into their new home the end of October and are looking forward to hosting family and friends for gatherings. For the most part, all lenders are following the same guidelines for conventional, FHA, VA and USDA financing. However, some lenders have additional guideline overlays on top of these programs’ guidelines. And in some cases the loan officer may not be as experienced in certain types of financing as was the case here with the original lender Jamie and Maggie were using. Amerifirst Financial does not have overlays and I have 30+ years of experience doing conventional, FHA, VA, USDA and reverse mortgages. I am always happy to discuss a buyer’s situation and offer a second opinion. Carolyn lives in Rancho San Diego with her husband and 2 dogs. Her daughter is in her first year of college in Northern CA. She has lived in East County for the past 22 years and loves the sunshine and sense of community. Carolyn can be contacted at cplummer@amerifirst.us or at 619.813.8934. Equal Housing Lender. I am a licensed mortgage originator, NMLS# 256447, and am licensed to originate mortgage loans in the State of California.

AmeriFirst Financial, Inc., 1550 E. McKellips Road, Suite 117, Mesa, AZ 85203 (NMLS # 145368). 1-877-276-1974. Copyright 2013. All Rights Reserved. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates, and programs are subject to change without prior notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Not all products are available in all states or for all loan amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply. CA: Licensed by The Department of Business Oversight under the CA Residential Mortgage Lending Act

on our porch ncinitas is known for great surfing and its casual, laidback vibe. Unless you’ve lived here though, you may not be aware of its rich floriculture history. Paul Ecke Ranch is what brought the holiday must-have of the poinsettia to the commercial market. It was Mr. Ecke’s dream that Encinitas would become the flower capital of the world and he succeeded. Builder, California West has brought together the essence of this rich history to the casual elegance of Encinitas Enclave. With a little bit of inspiration from HGTV’s Chip and Joanna Gaines thrown in, they have beautifully crafted what will be 19 semicustom modern, traditional, and rustic farmhouse-style homes. The casual indoor and outdoor lifestyle is a key component to this community’s architectural design. Kitchens are oversized and open to a great room, making what will be the hub of family living and entertaining. Porches, large and small, bid family and friends to come inside and enjoy what is most important in life—creating memories, relationships, and community. California West’s Encinitas Enclave has definitely captured the heart of what it means to live in Encinitas. They welcome you to their porch.

Details Year Built: 2017 Architecture: Farmhouse Bedrooms: 3-6 Baths: Up to 5.5 Baths Square Feet: Up to 5178 Sq. Ft. Location: 1441 Enclave Ct. Encinitas, CA 92024 List Price: $1,650,000 and up

Photos Courtesy of Encinitas Enclave by California West calwestliving.com

home

feels like home ere’s the final installment of our series on flooring: carpet. We’ve “covered” (pun intended) wood/ engineered wood, tile, vinyl – but what if you want a little warmth under your feet? Carpet can be an affordable, and stylish, option in many areas of your home and there are so many varieties to choose from! The first thing to consider when choosing carpet is the purpose of the room. Will there be heavy or light traffic? Do you have kids or pets (or both)? Will you enter the room from outdoors? Is it a light-filled room, or is there minimal sunlight? All of these will influence the color and composition of the carpet.

Photo Credit: amazon.com

If you think of carpet like fabric, made of fibers of various materials that require different types of care, it may help you to narrow your selection to a certain type. Carpet is generally made of wool, nylon, polyester, or polypropylene, and the cost will vary greatly, with wool being the most expensive.

Nylon and polyester are both highly durable, and are great choices for many rooms. They are both stain resistant, but it’s always best to purchase carpet that is either pre-treated for stain resistance or to treat it yourself. Bottom line? Nylon is more expensive than polyester, so if budget is a primary concern, keep that in mind.

Photo Credit: thespruce.com

Most indoor/outdoor or commercial carpets are made of polypropylene, and are highly durable for heavy traffic areas. These are also very low-profile with no cut fibers, so they don’t have a “plush” feel. One of the fun options, though, are carpet tiles – which are available in a LOT of patterns and colors so you can get pretty creative – and if a tile is damaged beyond cleaning, you can replace just the tile without sacrificing the entire rug. After you’ve considered what material is best for your purposes, you’ll also want to think about color and texture. If you have small children and/or pets, very light colors may not be the best choice, but you don’t have to keep it dark. There are variegated carpets that have a few different colors within the same palette that are good choices to hide the traffic of life. Berber-type carpets are a “closed loop” carpet that provides texture, cut pile is plusher, and a combo of various cuts can provide texture in a monochromatic way.

So even though it seems like a lot of carpets look the same, there are actually a lot of differences and many choices. When you’re shopping, be sure to bring paint and fabric samples with you, and ask if you can borrow a sample to view in the room before purchasing. And don’t forget to take your shoes off and enjoy it when it’s installed!

Lisa Vasey, lives in El Cajon with her husband and two pugs. When not staging or redesigning, Lisa likes to try new restaurants and recipes, travel, read, and enjoy live music. You can find Lisa on the web at stagedtodaysoldtomorrow.com. Reach out to Lisa at 619.335.8550 or email her at lisa@stagedtodaysoldtomorrow.com for help with your redesign or staging project.

transforming spaces five surprising reasons you have clutter and what to do about it lutter. Whether you’re aware of it or not, takes up space not only in your home, but in your mind. Whether its piles of mail or the shoes in the back of your closet, cleaning out your clutter will open your home and your psyche to new possibilities. But why do so many of us allow things to accumulate to the point where we become overwhelmed? Understanding a bit why clutter happens can also be the key to letting it go.

You think you might need it someday. You might start rollerblading again. That George Foreman grill is still new in the box, but you’ve yet to make a sandwich. Solution: If you have not used them for a year, you’re probably not going to use them. Donate them to a youth sports organization or thrift store.

Someone gave it to you. People hold on to things for sentimental reasons and guilt. Solution: Once someone has given you something, it belongs to you and you are free to do with it what’s right for you. If you are never going to use it, let it go.

It’s broken. Whether its furniture, electronics and bikes are all things that pile up because they’re not working and you plan to fix. Solution: If it doesn’t work, donate or recycle or if necessary throw it out.

You plan to “get to it” one day. Art projects, knitting, magazines and books you plan to read are all taking up space. Solution: Give it to someone who can use it right now, like a senior center or organization that knits for babies in the NICU. Magazines and books you can donate to laundry mats or libraries.

You don’t have a place for it. Things that don’t have a designated spot, end up in piles around your home. In order to make room for things you do want, you have let go of others. Solution: Create a home for everything in your environment. If it doesn’t fit in a drawer, cupboard or closet, it goes!

Cheryl is passionate about helping people enhance their space. Whether helping people de-clutter and organize, or assisting seniors getting ready to move their belongings, her enthusiasm for the project brings enjoyment to the process. Cheryl is patient, calm and flexible allowing her to meet her client’s needs in a way that supports them in the process. Allow Me specializes in assisting people who are chronically disorganized. When needed, Cheryl is knowledgeable in holding Estate Sales. Cheryl can be reached at: cheryl@allowmesolutions.com or at 619.772.5444 Check out her website at allowmesolutions.com

tax 911

nitty gritty using online agents to rent your home short term?

you may be surprised at the tax ramifications f you are among the taxpayers renting your first or second home using rental agents or online rental services that match property owners with prospective renters, such as Airbnb, VRBO and HomeAway, then you should know the IRS has special rules related to short-term rentals. When property is rented for short periods, special (and sometimes complex) taxation rules come into play, which can make the rents excludable from taxation; other situations may force the rental income and expenses to be reported on Schedule C (as opposed to Schedule E). If you have been renting your home or second home for short periods of time, here is a synopsis of the rules governing short-term rentals so you can prepare yourself for the upcoming tax season. 

Rented for Fewer Than 15 Days During the Year: If you rent your property for fewer than 15 days during the tax year, the rental income is not reportable, and the expenses associated with the rental are not deductible. However, interest and property taxes are still deductible as itemized deductions on your Schedule A.



Rented for an Average of 7 Days or Less: Under normal circumstances, rentals are treated as passive activities, which are reported on a Schedule E, and net profit from the rental activity is not subject to self-employment tax. But the special rules treat short-term rentals averaging 7 days or less as a trade or business similar to that of a hotel or motel, with the income and expenses reported on Schedule C, and the profits are subject to both income tax and self-employment tax.

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Rented for an Average of 8 to 30 days: Even rentals for longer than 7 days are treated as a trade or business when substantial personal services are provided to the short-term tenant. Substantial services are those that are primarily for your tenant’s convenience, such as regular cleaning, changing linens, or maid service. Substantial services do not include the furnishing of heat and light, the cleaning of public areas, trash collection, and such. When extraordinary services are provided, the rental is treated as a trade or business and reported on Schedule C regardless of the average rental period. However, it would be extremely rare for this to apply to short-term rentals of your home or second home.

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Exception to the Significant Service Rule: If the personal services provided are similar to those that generally are provided in connection with long-term rentals of high-grade commercial or residential real property (such as the cleaning of public areas and trash collection), and if the rental also includes maid and linen services at a cost of less than 10% of the rental fee, then the personal services are neither significant nor extraordinary for the purposes of the 30-day rule.

A loss from this time of activity, even when reported on your Schedule C as a trade or business, is still treated as a passive activity loss and can only be deducted against passive income. The $25,000 loss allowance that applies to some Schedule E rentals is not available for rental activities reportable on Schedule C.

It is important that you keep a record of not only the rental income from each tenant but also the duration of each rental, so the average rental term for the year can be determined. If you have questions about your rental activities, please give our office a call. As a licensed Investment Advisor & Registered Tax Preparer, Jesse Lipscomb specializes in Tax Return Based Financial Planning, and believes minimizing taxes today can greatly enhance one's wealth tomorrow. Jesse can be reached at 619.280.2700 or email him at Jesse@RoadmapTax.com. Visit his website at roadmaptax.com

Marco Sawrey & Karin Zonis-Sawrey

Tajima Ramen tajimasandiego.com Multiple Locations Tajima Convoy |Tajima Mercury Tajima Hillcrest| Tajima East Village Tajima North Park | Tajima Long Beach Tajima Tijuana MX

f you like ramen you’ll love Tajima and if you have never had ramen, Tajima is the place to try this traditional Japanese noodle soup. They put the “Amen” in ramen! Any of their five locations here in San Diego offers a variety of delicious appetizers, small dishes, and the best ramen around. The menus include items that you’ve likely never tried before, unless you’ve been to Japan. You can choose from a selection of ramens or customize your own, select chicken, pork, or vegan. For us, the spinach noodles are heaven, homemade and a perfect texture. The ramen offers a wide variety of toppings, like soft boiled eggs, seaweed, kimchi, bamboo shoots, spinach and black garlic oil, to name a few. The menu varies from location to location with the largest menu at Tajima Mercury, offering sushi as well as other options, like fried rice, Udon dishes, and more appetizers. While the other locations have fewer dishes, all have traditional ramen. We also like the sushi and poke bowls here. For something off the beaten path, try their Takoyaki or scallop fritters. Both are creamy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Be careful, they’re hot! We tried Takoyaki, traditionally a snack on the go, on the streets of Kyoto a few years back. There, street vendors make a smooth and creamy batter with pieces of octopus inside. They cook these in ball-shaped steel trays and they come out like little fried balls of creamy goodness with bonito flakes and a sweet sauce to balance out the flavor. The ones at Tajima are almost as good as those in Kyoto and worth a nibble (or two).

Dragon Roll

Scallop Fritters

Salmon Poke Bowl

Tonkatsu Ramen

Now that it’s getting colder in San Diego, a bowl of hot noodle soup is just the ticket. Whether you order take-out or eat in, the service is quick and efficient and the food will warm you like your favorite sweater.

Tacoyaki

bon vivant going grey n my profession, I get to learn something new every day about wine. And this is especially exciting when I experience a new grape. As most varietals have been around for centuries, if it’s new to me, it’s usually a really fun discovery. Three varietals that we see in the wine industry making a “come back” are the grey skinned fruit of their better known siblings: Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc & Grenache. Gris grapes are genetically identical to those whose full names end with Blanc or Noir but have more deeply colored grape skins, generally pink or grey, than most white wine grapes so the wines they produce tend to be darker and often more complex. It is technically a white grape, with a grayish / brownish pink skin. (Hence the name gris, (gray) in French & grigio in Italian.) Burgundy, considered the birthplace of Pinot Noir, has also grown Pinot Gris since the Middle Ages. Nowadays, the Alsace is typically the wine region where we find world-class Pinot Gris. Here, the climate and soil provide just what we want to experience from these styles showing incredible richness, classic minerality and depth of flavor. Some of my favorite Pinot Grigios comes from the northern Italian regions of Alto Adige & Friuli. The Pinot Grigios from these regions are exquisite showing classic purity, with delicate aromatics & intense flavors. And let’s not forget Oregon Pinot Gris which often combines the richness and texture of the Alsatian styles with the more vibrant fruitiness of their Italian neighbors. And while they are the same grape, the two names have come to infer two different styles of wine. Sauvignon Gris is perhaps the most obscure grape in the entire Bordeaux wine appellation. The grape came close to being extinct following the phylloxera epidemic. Today, not much is planted, although we are seeing a slight resurgence. Although we really don’t know much about the history of Sauvignon Gris, researchers think it is an interesting mutation of Sauvignon Blanc. Very little of this varietal is used today but we will see it in a few new world regions like Chile, Australia & New Zealand, and as a blending grape in Bordeaux, France. Typically, the varietal produces wines with brilliant acidity, and solid concentration of flavor.

Ripened Pinot Gris Grapes on the Vine

The third gris grape I am very fond of, is Grenache Gris. My love affair with Grenache Gris started with wines we brought in from Collioure, near the French Pyrenees, from a small family owned winery called Clos St. Sebastien. The pink-skinned cousin of Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris, is relatively rare & will typically be found in the Mediterranean coastal regions of Southern France and Priorat, Spain. Although rarely used, & typically blended, it shows beautiful stone fruit characteristics with a viscosity similar to Viognier. Exploring new varietals is just one of the fun perks of my profession. Don’t be afraid to jump in and discover new favorites for yourself.

Beth Fraitag is a lead wine consultant with Quigley Fine Wines. Wine is her passion and she works one on one with individuals who also enjoy popping the cork from time to time. Her specialty is small production wines from around the globe where sustainable farming practices have been the norm for generations. Her belief in biodynamic methods to bring mother nature's bounty into our lives is the basis for the wines she represents. She can be reached at 619.742.0245 or beth@quigleyfinewines.com. Check out the QFW website at quigleyfinewines.com for additional information.

time-out

Photo Credit: educationalsciene.com

family-friendly places to go with kids in and around san diego

Why Kid Friendly?

Photo Credit: joeleagle.com

Photo Credit: robwilbourn.com

Native Butterflies Education Encourages Conservation

Butterfly Farms

441 Saxony Road Encinitas, CA 92024 760.613.5867 butterflyfarms.org

where’s rosemary?

In every issue of From the Front Porch you’ll find a photo of different places that I’ve been in San Diego County. Your goal is to figure out where I took the photo. Be specific and submit your guess as fast as you can (You have competition!!!) The first correct answer will win movie tickets for two! You can email, Homes@LivinInSD.com, or call us at: 619-405-7673.

pinterest.com/rosemaryjoles/home-cookin-wee-humble-cottage-approved/

et cetera

Ingredients

      

where was rosemary? Sunset Seat Sculpture Torrey Pines Beach Winner B.R. Shepard Rancho Penasquitos

delish

Crustless Vegetable Quiche

1 tab olive oil 2 cloves of garlic minced 1 red pepper diced small 3 cups chopped broccoli florets 1/2 a yellow onion diced small 4 large eggs 4 egg whites

      

1/2 cup milk 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/2 tab oregano 1/2 tab basil 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella 1/4 cup crumbled feta

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a nine inch quiche dish with cooking spray and set aside. 2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil, then add the garlic, peppers and onion. Stir intermittently over medium heat until the vegetables are soft, about 8 minutes. 3. While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the eggs and egg whites. Whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir in the mozzarella and feta cheese. 4. Once the vegetables are cooked, pour them into the quiche dish, add the broccoli in at this time. Pour the egg mixture over it, gently smoothing it out so it is even. Put in the oven and bake for 40 minutes or until the edge of the quiche starts to pull away from the side. Let set for 10 minutes, serve and enjoy! Recipe Credit: wineandglue.com,

around our town

voyage

alf the battle of a successful family getaway is picking the right location. What does it take for an island to meet the mark? First, the basics: abundant sunshine, pristine beaches and a safe atmosphere. After that comes plenty of family-friendly activities and opportunities for adult relaxation. The right destination also needs to be easy to get to and get around. That’s a tall order, but luckily there are plenty of viable options. Here are some of my personal favorites guaranteed to make everyone happy.

Photo Credit: commons.wikipeida.com

THE BAHAMAS – Whether you choose a spacious resort like Atlantis or prefer the laid-back charm of Harbour Island, the Bahamas offer something for everyone. Family-oriented adventures abound…snorkeling, exploring Lucayan National Park by kayak and swimming with dolphins…and there are enough golf courses, spas and high-end shopping to keep parents happy.

GRAND CAYMAN – This island is a tropical paradise with plenty to see and do for your entire brood. Along with the requisite white sand beaches and turquoise water, the island features family-friendly activities like pirate ship and sea turtle farm tours and submarine trips. ARUBA – With a seven-mile stretch of beach lines with hotels, dining and recreational options, the opportunities for family fun are practically endless on this Dutch island. In addition, the desert landscape offers an excellent beach alternative with natural attractions such as Arikok National Park, where cacti grow to unexpected heights and fantastically shaped divi-divi trees make for a fun hike.

AMELIA ISLAND – For those looking to stay stateside, Amelia Island, off Florida’s northeastern coast, is a pristine paradise complete with dune-filled beaches, championship golf courses, historical charm and boutique shopping.

blogtravellingworld.blogspot.com Credit: Photo scenic.co.uk.com Credit: Photo

Beth Taylor

Photo Credit: ironman.com

idyllic island getaways for families

MAUI – Get back to nature on Maui, where your family can go hiking in Haleakala National Park, spot sharks at the Maui Ocean Center, take a ride on the Sugar Cane Train or simply enjoy some of the best beaches in Hawaii. Many people think they should avoid the Caribbean due to recent hurricane damage. I assure you that the islands listed above, as well as 70% of the Caribbean islands, are definitely open for business and would gladly welcome your visit!

Beth Taylor is a local travel consultant who has been in the travel industry for over 30 years. She specializes in group and family travel. Her experience has taken her to places around the world. She’d love to help you plan your own unique vacation or simply “talk travel” with you! She can be reached at TMTravel@cox.net or 619-303-8771. Visit her website at BethTaylorMadeTravel.com for more tips about travel and some of the latest travel specials.

destination-liberty station Rosemary Joles amilies and friends gather daily at Liberty Station’s Con Pane, drawn to the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the historic Naval Training Center’s doors. Times past echo within its walls where, for more than 74 years, the United States Navy transformed boys into men and girls into women. The stories these walls could tell if only they could talk. Step outside and stroll down beautifully groomed paths beside exquisite Spanish Revival architecture. Imagine the revelry call as you walk past buildings that still retain the word “Barracks” and their original numbers. Yet, there is another vibe that exists in this historic 361-acre, mixed-use development. There’s a blending of the old with the new. Dance companies offer a myriad of classes for the aspiring dancer. Artisans carve, paint, draw, and sculpt. Museums teach. Culture at its finest can be found here. Picnics, dogs romping, children playing happen daily in NTC Park, along the scenic blue water boat channel. Runners, joggers, and walkers can be found along its shoreline. Go explore. I promise you will enjoy.

minutia

Photo credit: wikimedia.com Photo Credit: Detroit Public Library

In a panel interview, Steve Jobs once accused Microsoft of ripping off the MAC. To which Bill Gates replied by saying; “Well Steve… I think it’s more like we both had a rich neighbor named Xerox and I broke into his house to steal the TV set and found out that you had already stolen it!”

Todd Joles is now known as Mr. Useless Knowledge (this is an affectionate title), is a business associate of his wife Rosemary, a passionate woodworker by night, mandolin/bluegrass aficionado by choice, chief cook and bottle washer because he loves his wife and a purveyor of this useless knowledge.

bravo & mia bites

useless knowledge

“When an 85 pound mammal licks your tears away, and then tries to sit on your lap, it’s hard to feel sad.” – Kristan Higgins

Photo compliments of: Rebecca Johnson Bravo and Mia are the fur-children of Rebecca Johnson. They are the grand puppies of Rosemary and Todd Joles.

Photo credit: thespruce.com

botanical name: Pedilanthus bracteatus common name: Slipper Plant Likes: Sun to Partial Shade Needs: No colder than 25° Blooms: Green/Yellow encased by red bracts Note: Drought-tolerant, suitable for xeriscaping attracts bees, butterflies and birds. Photo credit: typicalgardener.com

rosebud’s garden

Where flowers bloom, so does hope. -Lady Bird Johnson Photo credit: designforserenity.com To see more SD plants go to: livininsd.com

Rosemary Joles is passionate about low-water gardening in San Diego. She loves creating gardens that look like lush water thirsty gardens, yet need very little moisture to maintain them. Her other passions include real estate, lattes, spending time with family and friends, reading, music and laughter!

upcycle the fun and challenges of upcycling At Upcycled Home and Garden, we focus on “what can be” rather than “what it was”.’ Gail and Jim Hallemeyer

his year we are going to be sharing four different projects that are relatively easy to do and look great when finished.

Photo credit: happygoluckyblog.com

The first project is a side table. This table can have many different uses, in an entryway, next to a sofa or chair with high arms or in that corner of a room where something is needed for balance. This project starts with a pedestal from a dinning room table where the top had been damaged in a move, but the pedestal themselves were in good condition requiring only some cosmetic re-staining.

Sample wood flooring that was heading to a landfill.

Pedestal from a damaged dining set with a three quarter inch plywood mounted between pedestal and wood flooring.

The finished product! Upcycled and beautiful. No landfill for these pieces!

Next we visited our local flooring store, where they were in the process of clearing out old hardwood flooring samples. These samples are great for many projects. When mentioned to them that we wanted to upcycle them, they jumped with pleasure that they did not have to toss these samples into a landfill. Check out the floor companies in your area, you will be helping them to re-cycle and everyone will be helping our environment. The free pieces we were given were fine wood, already stained, finished and in some cases the edges were finished as well. The next step was to create a stable subsurface for the mounting between the hardwood-flooring sample and the table pedestal. Using a rough piece of three quarter inch plywood. Cutting it well shy of the size of the flooring piece yet substantial enough to give a good top to the pedestal. After completing the mounting, a belt sander was used to round out the corners. This was done to limit any future injury of bumping into it. The edges were then re-painted with black paint to make it a nice finished look.

Upcycled Home and Garden is located at 4747 Oceanside Blvd, Suite I, Oceanside CA 92056. We can reached at 760-908-9800 or info@upcycledhomegarden.com. We offer classes in Milk Painting, Succulent Planting, Garden Art, Chair Upholstering and more, check out our website upcycledhomegarden.com for detailed information. You can also find items we have upcycled on our site. We are open Wednesday thru Saturday, 10:00am-5:30pm. Come by and say hello.

podsibilities

books or blogs

most of you know I’m a big fan of action and adventure. Add historical fiction to the mix and I’m hooked. Recently a friend recommended Byzantium, by Stephen R. Lawhead. I was hooked from the first page. The story line is based around the very real Book Of Kells, an illuminated Bible and an Irish National Treasure. A group of Monks Pilgrimage to Byzantium to deliver the just completed Book Of Kells to the Holy Roman Emperor in Constantinople. Spanning the know globe and facing treachery and betrayal from every side. Who will live? Who will make it home alive? Photo credit: amazon.com

Photo Credit: celebritypics.com

bits and pieces

Stringbean, Grandpa Jones, Roni Stoneman, Roy Clark and Bobby Thompson: youtu.be/NB0Jv_9ImF4 Roy Clark: youtu.be/Ta4535Y8xYE

from marcandangel.com

ponderings

seems the older I get, the more nostalgic I get for the music I heard in my youth. Growing up I HATED country music! Now it seems old country is all I want to listen too. As a kid, Saturday nights started off with Lawrence Welk and HEEHAW. Many people tend to discount the serious musicianship of the regulars and guests on HEEHAW. Grandpa Jones and Stringbean were considered some of the best banjo entertainers in the business, and Ronnie Stoneman, a mere girl who they always made up to look homely, could out pick them any day of the week! And Roy Clark? I’ve heard people laugh when they hear his name… Seriously! The man was not only a master of many instruments but he could entertain you while playing. See for yourself, take a minute and check them out on youtube. Hold onto hats friends and try to keep up!

When was the last time you tried something new?

park exploration

NTC Park 2455 Cushing Rd. San Diego, CA 92106 (619)531-1534 word search â&#x20AC;&#x201C;native california plants one

Alpine Lily American Dune Grass Baby Blue Eyes Bear Grass Blue Lobelia California Fuchsia California Flannel Bush California Milkweed Canyon Sunflower Cleveland Sage Coyote Brush Deer Grass Desert Willow Evergreen Currant Fairy Duster Monkey Flower Manzanita Penstemon Find the answers at www.LivinInSD.com/ws

lifestyle

Lamb’s Players Theater lambsplayers.org

The Old Globe theoldglobe.org

Vista’s Broadway Theater broadwayvista.biz

Camping with Henry & Tom February 16-March 25

The Importance of Being Earnest January 27 - March 4

Women in Jeopardy March 1 - 25

Smoke on the Mountain March 1-18

Uncle Vanya February 10 - March 11

Voices of Ireland March 19

American Mariachi March 23 - April 29

San Diego Rep sdrep.org

Broadway San Diego broadwaysd.org

Vietgone January 25 - February 18

Dirty Dancing February 9 - 11

Beachtown March 22 - April 15

Stomp March 2 - 4

North Coast Repertory northcoastrep.org

The Magic of Adam Trent March 24

This Random World February 21 - March 18

An Evening with Robert Dubac February 26 & 27

Love Never Dies March 27 - April 1

San Diego Adventures february | march San Diego Museum Month February 1-28 sandiegomuseumcouncil.org

San Diego Science & Engineering Fair March 3-11 lovestemsd.org

San Diego Pet Expo February 17-18 sandiegopetcon.com

Cherry Blossom Festival March 9-11 niwa.org/cbf18/

San Diego Bird Festival February 21-25 sandiegoaudubon.org

San Diego Latino Film Festival March 15-25 sdlatinofilm.com

San Diego Winter Brew Fest February 24 sandiegobrewfest.com

St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival March 17 stpatsparade.org

Chinese New Year Food & Cultural Fair February 24-25 sdcny.org

WSA West Coast Championships March 24-25 wsa.surfsignup.com

Spring Home/Garden Show March 2-4 springhomegardenshow.com

East Village Opening Day Block Party March 30-31 eastvillagesandiego.com

sd concerts

Phillip Phillips

AMSD Concerts Sweetwater Union High School 2900 Highland Avenue National City, CA 91950 619.201.0520 amsdconcerts.com 2/9 Front Country 3/2 John Gorka 3/24 Mary Gauthier California Center for the Arts 340 North Escondido Blvd. Escondido, CA 92025 800.988.4253 Tickets 760.839.4183 All others artcenter.org 2/7 Jessica Fichot 2/7 Pink Martini 2/10 The Vow Marriage Conference 2/11 Michelle Cann 2/13 Lyle Lovett & Robert Earl Keene 2/18 International Guitar Night 2/22 Black Violin 2/24 Jesse Cook 2/25 Center Chorale: Symphony Orchestra & Mojalet Dance Collective 3/1 Jake Shimabukuro 3/7 Brogue Wave 3/8 Chris Botti 3/9 Bria Skonberg 3/11 Masters of Hawaiian Music 3/12 Buddy guy 3/23 West Coast Jam 3/24 Cesar Millan 3/25 High Society Jazz Band 3/25 5th Annual Mariachi Festival

Los Lobos

Belly Up 143 S Cedros Ave. Solana Beach, CA 92075 858.481.8140 bellyup.com 2/1 Ladysmith Black Mambazo 2/2 Wild Child 2/3 ALO 2/5 Howard Jones 2/6 Kathryn Cloward 2/7 Daring Greatly 2/8 Allah-Las 2/10 Wayward Sons 2/16 &17 The English Beat 2/18 BETAMAXX 2/19 Mike Gordon 2/20 Shovels & Rope 2/22 The Wood Brothers 2/23 Bahamas 2/24 Steve Polts/The Rugburns 2/25 Herb Alpert & Lani Hall 2/26 Snarky Puppy 2/27 Burger A.Go.Go #1: The Coathangers 2/28 Spafford 3/1 They Might be Giants 3/2 Margo Price 3/3 Anderson East 3/7 Kenny Wayne Shephard Band 3/8 Antibalas 3/9 Dead Man’s Party 3/15 Rachael Yamagata 3/16 The Infamous Stringdusters 3/17 Beatles VS Stones 3/18 Walter Trout 3/22&23 Phillip Phillips 3/24 Brett Dennen: Let’s Tour 3/29 Galactic

John Gorka

Poway Onstage Poway Center for the Performing Arts 15498 Espola Road Poway, CA 92064 858.668.4798 powayonstage.org 2/17 Cameron Carpenter 2/24 Sounds of the Big Easy 3/10 Gulliver’s Travels in Space 3/16 Los Lobos

front porch pickin san diego music from classical to bluegrass

domiciles

Oceanside · $359,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Cortez Hill-Aria · $442,500 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Hillcrest-Atlas · $615,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Clairemont · $650,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

La Costa · $840,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Fallbrook · $1,099,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

from east county to the coast

La Costa-La Costa Fairways · $499,000-$525,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

La Mesa · $550,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Downtown-Electra · $749,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Hillcrest-Atlas · $749,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Downtown · $1,350,000-$1,500,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Mission Hills · $2,690,000 livininsd.com · 619·405·7673

Front Porch Wisdom

“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” -socrates

Millicent

and Company Salons

Out of the Mouths…. I told my kids that we are no longer saying “shut up” because it sounds mean and can hurt people’s feelings. So my

MEGAN MCGHEN

kids are getting creative with their use

619·464·3166

talking and talking, and my 6-year-old

Hair Stylist

of words. My 9-year-old daughter was

son couldn’t take it anymore and said, 4695 Palm Avenue · La Mesa · CA · 91942

“SILENCE YOU PEASANT!”

1923

Remember When

Balboa Theater

Architect: William H. Wheeler | Built 1924 868 Fourth Ave. | San Diego, CA 92101 |sandiegotheatres.org

Photos: sandiegohistory.org & commons.wikimedia.org

2017

all me now to sell your home!

SOLD · $279,900 ∙ 2/1 livininsancarlos.info ∙ San Carlos

COMING SOON · $345,000 · 2/1.5 livininpeacockhills.info · Oceanside

SOLD · $369,000 ∙ 3/2 livininlamesa.info · La Mesa

SOLD · $435,000 · 2/2 livininmiramesa.info · San Diego

SOLD · $435,000 · 4/2 livininsantee.info · Santee

SOLD · $650,000 · 5/3.5 livininfletcherhills.info ∙ Fletcher Hills

SOLD · $725,000 · 3+/2.5 livinincivita.info · Mission Valley

SOLD · $795,000 ∙ 4+/2.5 livininsd.com · Stonecrest Village

SOLD · $845,000 · 4/2.5 livininsd.com ∙ El Cajon · Hidden Mesa

Whether you are looking to sell, buy, or lease a home we have the skills to get the job done right. LETS GET STARTED TODAY! CALL 619.405.7673

Rosemary Joles Every home is a masterpiece Five Consecutive Years - Five Star Real Estate Agent REALTOR® | Cal BRE #01095314 Residential Sales· Leasing· LUXE Director 619· 405· 7673 Homes@LivinInSD.com | LivinInSD.com