Jen Sanregret moved from Austin, Texas (hence her use of “y’all”) to the Santa Ynez Valley on Oct. 1, 2016. She remembers the exact day because she was so excited about the move.

Actually, what I love about Jen is that she seems to always be excited — about life — and her energy and inspiration are contagious. She is the quintessential beautiful being, inside and out, who makes you think, “I want what she has.”

Now she and her husband Grant sell “cups of happiness” from their Los Olivos Lemons stand.

LOV: What drew you to SYV?

Quality of life. My oldest son, Vance, has a genetic disease called cystic fibrosis. It affects the lungs, pancreas, digestive tract and sinuses. The climate in Austin was too harsh for his little body with the humidity, severe allergies and heat. We vacationed here several times and noticed he could actually breathe better in the valley with the dry air and less allergies. In additional to that, having the beach around the corner is very good for his lungs, as he benefits from salt air.

LOV: Tell us a little about your career path.

I started my own business as a full-service wedding planner at the age of 19 in Austin. After 10 years of planning large-scale weddings I decided to open The Austin Wedding Chapel for couples who had smaller wedding budgets. My sweet little chapel was perfect for intimate weddings and gave me the opportunity to be a part of the ceremonies as the officiant.

During that time Grant was opening our first lemon, Austin City Lemons, just down the road from my chapel. … I did the marketing, social media and advertising. I realized after opening my chapel that I had grown into more of an entrepreneur than a wedding planner and was seeking a business that made me happy.

LOV: How did you come up with the term “Cup of Happiness?”

After Vance was diagnosed with CF we decided to take the lemonade stand a different direction.

Originally it was going to be a giant lemon serving pre-made lemonade with plans to serve quickly and capitalize on the growing Austin tourism. But the hardships of CF changed our perspective on everything. We did not want to be just another food truck in Austin, we wanted to contribute to the “greater good.” We wanted our customers to have a happy experience and leave our business with a smile.

One day Grant said, “lemonade is just a cup of happiness …” and it stuck! Then he went into his kitchen and came up with a fresh lemonade recipe and we started brainstorming fun flavors to add to it. Suddenly, we had created something special, craft-made simple syrups and fresh lemonade with the bonus of having a big lemon to serve out of.

LOV: How did you start your company?

One of Grant’s family members had a giant lemon and traveled to rodeos, fairgrounds and carnivals. When Austin started to open multiple gourmet food truck lots around the city we thought it would be a great addition. From there it snowballed into a happiness business.

LOV: Can you share one of your obstacles or challenges?

Like anyone with a startup we have overcome many issues. Recently the hardest decision we made was closing Austin City Lemons and bringing that lemon (Ethel) to the Santa Ynez Valley. Having two locations in two different states was difficult, but we had such a great following in Austin we did not want to close the doors. It has turned out to be one of the best business decisions we’ve made. Having two lemons in the valley makes sense. We want to have a permanent location in Los Olivos and have one lemon that customers can rent for events.

LOV: What do you like most about living in the valley?

I cannot get enough of the majestic views! Whether I am driving up Figueroa Mountain Road, going through the trees in Buellton, headed through Alisal or walking up Meadowvale, I am just in awe of all the beauty here.

LOV: Your favorite thing to do with your family?

Being from Texas, it is a real treat to be so close to the ocean. We love packing up and heading down to Refugio for the afternoon. I look forward to a little beach camping soon!

LOV: How do you balance being a mom and entrepreneur?

My boys come first. Having two young children, I try to spend as much time with them as I can. That means they spend a lot of time working events with me and hanging on my back as I am working on the computer. But we are together, and having a family-friendly business helps with that.

LOV: What keeps you so positive all the time?

I try to surround myself with positivity. I read books on enlightenment, magazines that have articles about happiness, I listen to uplifting Ted Talks and try to keep my social media platforms positive by only following “happy stuff.” Even with all that, I am still not positive all the time. I have good days and better days. I guess that is a positive way to say I still have bad days, but I try not to beat myself up over it.

LOV: What helps you to deal with stress?

I find that I get stressed when I don’t have “me time.” It is really hard to carve out time for yourself as a wife, mother and business owner, but it’s essential. Just finding time to actually wash and dry my hair can be a feat in itself! Exercising is honestly the best way I manage my stress, but I also eat cake and watch cooking shows — sometimes in that order.

LOV: Do you have a daily regimen for nurturing a healthy attitude?

My gratitude journal. Gratitude keeps me in check. I have learned that the hard stuff only makes the good stuff even better. That thought keeps me balanced and not too hard on myself when I have a “not so positive” day. When I get down I remember that it is just part of the ebb and flow of life. I try to appreciate the experience.

LOV: Can people commission you for parties and events?

Yes! We have two lemons. Lucy lives in Los Olivos next to Saarloos & Sons tasting room and Ethel lives in our driveway — she travels for work. (Ha ha!)”

LOV: Any more “lemons” coming down the pike?

I hope to have Ricky and Fred lemons one day, but for now we are happy with just Lucy and Ethel!

LOV: What is the best way to contact you?

Email is the easiest way to reach me at losolivoslemons@gmail.com

I have a LOL NEWSletter that is not your traditional business newsletter. I wanted to use the lemon as a platform to write about happy stuff. The newsletter is simply four happy stories that will help brighten your day. Just send me an email and I will gladly get it to you!

Robbie Kaye is a photojournalist, artist and author of “Beauty and Wisdom.” Follow her on Instagram at @ladiesofthevalley, @treadsandpaint & @robbiekaye, or at www.robbiekaye.com

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“It is my passion. There is no negative aspect in my work when the students are eager and want to learn the art of dance,” ballet teacher and studio owner Christine Fossemalle says.

Ballet teacher Christine Fossemalle, known for her nurturing demeanor and obvious passion for ballet, has lived in the Santa Ynez Valley since 1986.

She lived previously in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Montreal, Paris, Montpellier, Bordeaux and France.

Her studio’s annual show, “An Invitation To Dance,” will be performed at Santa Ynez High School’s Little Theater on the evenings of June 21-23.

LOV: How did you get into dancing?

It was a passion from the very beginning after watching ballet on television, from my mother’s recollection.  At 7 years old I finally began taking lessons and never stopped.

LOV: Did you have any interests other than dancing?

I always loved learning other languages and have been interested in music … and art at large.

LOV: When did you decide you wanted to teach dancing?

I have had the amazing opportunity to study with some of the best dance masters in the world, and I felt it was my responsibility to give that knowledge to the next generation. That is the way the art of dance is transmitted … you pass on the tools that were graciously given to you.

LOV: What is your favorite thing about teaching?

Witnessing the evolution and development of each student in regard to their individual abilities. Considering that I have had countless youngsters start at the age of 4 and continuing til they have graduated from high school, the transformation is extremely rewarding and gratifying.

LOV: Your least favorite thing?

It is my passion. There is no negative aspect in my work, when the students are eager and want to learn the art of dance.

LOV: What are some of the necessary aspects of creating a successful dance studio?

I have been fortunate to educate the parents as well as the students in the field of dance; they have responded well to the discipline and demands of their youngsters’ training and etiquette of ballet in particular: consistent attendance in class and rehearsals as well as intense efforts required in the higher levels. It has been a marvelously rewarding 32-year journey so far.

LOV: Can you share an inspirational story about your students? 

One of my students, Miss Rebecca Frazier, graduated from UCSB with a degree in dance and psychology. Her first job was working with children with disabilities. Her desire was to help them expand their boundary and find a way to better communicate with them.

She proposed a tap class to the school faculty, was approved and began teaching a very simple tap class. To the amazement of the entire staff, it was the first time some students reacted, participated and expressed joy and enthusiasm to do it again.

Hearing this story first-hand, as well as Miss Rebecca’s joy, was overwhelming as these children were receiving a beautiful gift from a dancer.

LOV: Where have some of your other students progressed to in regard to dancing?

I have had quite a few continuing in dance; my instructor and assistant, Miss Sonia, was one of my very first students; she is just as passionate as I am and is passing on her knowledge as well. This is truly a heartwarming and beautiful evolution.

In addition, I have had a few students graduating with bachelor’s or master’s in dance at UCSB as well as University of Utah. Miss Sarah Longoria-Frazier now teaches in Salt Lake City and directs her own dance company.

LOV: What would you tell adults about starting or continuing to dance ballet?

I love my adult class and students. Ballet is a marvelous form of exercise; it requires focus and so it becomes a feel-good escape from the daily routine. The rewards of getting a combination or a new step are marvelous and the connection between the movements and music are soothing.

You may come to class a bit tired, but you leave with a physical and mental lift. It is the best way for me to begin the day, as I often tell my students.

LOV: What events do you have coming up?

“An Invitation To Dance 2018” at the high school Little Theater on the evenings of June 21, 22 and 23.

For more information, call 688-8494 or go to www.fossemalledancestudio.com.

Robbie Kaye is a photojournalist, artist and the author of “Beauty and Wisdom,” who is working on “Cracked,” a photographic study in imperfection. For more information, go to www.robbiekaye.com.

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By Robbie Kaye

Photo by Ted Petit Photography
Charlene Rossoll, a waitress at The Longhorn, is also an accomplished horsewoman who loves to compete in local cutting-horse events.

I go for walks early in the morning to photograph trees at sunrise, and lots of times I end up at The Longhorn in Santa Ynez. I don’t go inside the restaurant because I have my dog, Luna, with me.

Usually I’m the only one sitting on the porch enjoying coffee, looking out into our beautiful valley. Sometimes it is very cold but waitress Charlene Rossoll never hesitates to bring me a cup of hot coffee, even though I offer to come inside and get it myself.

If you’re a regular at the Longhorn, you know Charlene, always happy, vivacious and just “on it.” Maybe it’s because I’m from New York that I appreciate her quick wit and banter more than some, but she makes me smile every time I’m there.

I’ve overheard Charlene speaking about her horses with such passion that I was intrigued to learn more.  It was a fantastic new experience for me when I went to photograph her at the equestrian center in Santa Ynez. Charlene has lived in the valley for 20 years after moving from Santa Barbara and has worked at the Longhorn for four years.

What drew you to living in the valley?

I moved “over the hill” because of my love for horses. I was just learning how to ride a cutting horse and my new trainer, Tom Shelly, was here in Santa Ynez.

When did you get involved with horses?

I got involved with horses as a child. First it was a small local group, than it was about 15 years later when I had the opportunity to jump on a cutting horse. And then I was hooked. I’ve been riding most of my life.

Can you please describe cutting?

Cutting is a timed competition, where there is a herd of cattle. You have two herd helpers in the corner and two turn-back helpers in the front. You have 2.5 minutes to work at least three cows, showing the judge you have control. It’s one cow at a time. The score starts at a 70 and it can go up or go down. There is always “luck of the draw,” and having a great horse always helps. So marking a 74 or higher is a plus!

Can you share something about competing with horses?

My cutting career started in 2000. I had my first cutting horse, Golds Bossa Nova. She taught me everything. But shortly after I started showing I met my husband, Rex Rossoll, who was judging a cutting for Tom Shelly. So I’ve been competing on cutting horses for more than 20 years now. I’m considered a “non pro,” which means you have earned too much money to show as an amateur and/or you are married to a trainer.

Can you share something about your connection with horses?

My connection with horses, well … once it’s in your blood, it never leaves you! I’ve had plenty of good horses. And very thankful for my husband who has made me a Pacific Coast Champion in 2011, and a top 5 in the world, with the National Cutting Horse Association. Super fun every time you walk into the herd!

How do you balance all the elements in your life?

I’ve always had a “real job.” I was a truck broker in Santa Barbara for over 28 years, and having your own business makes it a little bit easier for me to jump in the truck and go!

What is your favorite thing to do in the valley?

First, always cutting, plus you know we have such great wines here.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Well, my favorite place is the Greek Islands. Santorini. I left my twin sister’s ashes there. It’s the most magical place in the world to me.

What is your favorite season?

I love the fall, here in Santa Ynez, the days are still warm and the nights you can feel a little chill.

What do you do for fun with your friends?

When I’m home my favorite thing to do is meet my girlfriends on Fridays. That’s our day to catch up and drink some wine and have dinner.

If someone wanted to get into showing horses, what would you recommend as a starting point?

Anyone who wants to ride a cutting horse really needs to know how to ride and have had some experience. I would say to them, come on over. Rex Rossoll is a great teacher. He gives lessons on all levels and even has a lesson horse for people who just want to learn how to cut.  Also he starts young horses and trains them for cutting competitions. He can be reached at Doublercutting@aol.com or 805-331-5978

Robbie Kaye is a photographer, artist and author of “Beauty and Wisdom.” She is working on a “Ladies of the Valley” documentary and several photo books. Follow her on Instagram, @ladiesofthevalley or @robbiekaye, or at www.robbiekaye.com

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By Robbie Kaye

Christina Larner grew up in Southern California and graduated from UCSB, where she fell in love with the Santa Barbara area. When a job opportunity came up, she was thrilled to move to the Santa Ynez Valley, where she has lived for the past 14 years.

What drew you to the valley? 

The wine industry … .  I began working for Sunstone Winery in 2002 and a year later Sunstone opened Artiste Winery, and I worked there until 2008.  Artiste was a great fit for me since I had both a strong artistic background and an art degree from UCSB. Prior to Sunstone and Artiste, I worked for a couple of wineries in the Temecula wine country.

Christina Larner owns and operates the Los Olivos General Store, where she and her husband also have the tasting room for their wine label.

Tell us a little about how you came to open the Los Olivos General Store. 

My husband Michael and I started making wine for our family wine brand, Larner Winery, in 2009. Our plan was to open a tasting room at our vineyard but the permit process was taking longer than expected.  We began looking for an alternate location to sell our wine in Los Olivos.   With a little luck, we found out that our friend — who owned a gift store in the location we are in now — was planning to move to Napa. He recommended us to the landlord and the next thing we knew, we had ourselves a great spot in the center of town. Our wines weren’t quite ready to sell so we decided to open the Los Olivos General Store and focus on retail until the wine was labeled and ready.

Tell us more about you as an artist.

My passion for wine led me to explore it as an art medium.  While working at Artiste I came up with an idea for an event where we would use wine as paint.  I figured it would be like using watercolor, so I gathered all of the paper and brushes but instead of paint we used various types of wine … and it’s been my medium of choice since then.

Do you have plans to share or show your work?

Yes! I currently have my work on display in Santa Barbara at SB Wine Therapy and in Big Bear at Barrel 33.  I am hoping to have an art show at the General Store in the spring.

Christina Larner is a winemaker who also makes art with wine, using it as a medium for painting.

How did you get into growing grapes and making wine, and what plans do you have for your vineyard?

My husband’s family purchased a ranch in Ballard Canyon in 1997 and planted 34 acres of vines in 1999.  At the time they purchased the land, my husband switched careers from geologist to winemaker and vineyard manager.

After we were married in 2008, I joined the family business and now help with the winemaking and wine sales. We recently received a permit to build a small winery and tasting room at our vineyard, so by next year we should be ready to welcome guests to our vineyard to try the wines.

How do you balance being a mom of young children, running a store and everything else?  What’s your secret?

I absolutely love being a mom! My kids bring me so much joy but they do keep me busy. I would say flexibility is my secret.  I try not to be too hard on myself if I can’t be the perfect boss, mom, wife — I just do the best I can. I am lucky and grateful to have three awesome employees at my store and tasting room — not to mention a loving husband, mother-in-law, and babysitter to help when needed.

What is your favorite part about owning the LO General Store?

Making customers happy and being part of the Los Olivos community are my favorite parts … .  When people have a good experience and give us positive feedback it fuels my desire to continue to find unique merchandise and ultimately succeed as a small business. We sell shirts that say “Happy Place Los Olivos,” and it really is a happy place. There is something wonderful about a small town — a place where every day you can say hello to people you know.

What is your process for curating the products in your store?

I would say my store is eclectic.  I buy things I like or that are useful or interesting to me.  In addition, my talented store manager, Judith, is great about staying up to date on trends and spotting artisan products on social media. We work together to decide on new lines to bring into the store.

What do you do for rejuvenation? 

I try to work out at least three times per week. It’s a great stress reliever and improves my energy level.

What hurdle have you had to get over?

I was somewhat of a retail rookie when we opened the General Store five years ago. I remember the fear I had prior to opening, wondering if the store would succeed. Owning a business has its challenges and frustrations, but I’ve learned a lot since opening in 2012. I am proud of our little store and what we have accomplished.

Can you tell us one thing about you that most people don’t know?

My most impressionable life journey was backpacking through seven countries in Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. I still can’t believe I lived out of a backpack for five months!

What advice do you have for people who want to start their own business?

Have a solid business plan, patience, flexibility and a positive attitude.

The Los Olivos General Store has rotating art exhibits, trunk shows with featured suppliers, and open houses throughout the year. Get more information on Instagram @losolivosgeneralstore or on Facebook/losolivosgeneralstore, or by sending email to Christina@losolivosgeneralstore.com

Robbie Kaye is a photographer, fine artist and the author of “Beauty and Wisdom.” She is working on a Ladies of the Valley documentary. Follow her @ladiesofthevalley or @robbiekaye on Instagram or at www.robbiekaye.com.

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Photo by Robbie Kaye
Sue Eisaguirre of NatureTrack has felt close to nature all her life.

Ladies of the Valley

By Robbie Kaye

Sue Eisaguirre, executive director of NatureTrack, moved to the valley from Los Angeles 20 years ago. Before that she had lived in Denver, Anchorage, Alaska and Colorado, where she was born and raised.

She has always felt close to nature, and she contributes to the community in many ways. Sharing the joy and adventure of nature is one of them, and after learning more about her, I am inclined to become a volunteer myself for Nature Track and watch the wonder of nature through the eyes of a child.

In this sometimes-nutty world of ours, it’s comforting to know that people like Sue Eisaguirre are out there, in nature, offering the beauty and magic of it not just to children, but also to adults and families.

Can you tell us a bit about the path that led you to your love for nature?

As a child my mother would take my brother and me to the mountains to picnic and rock hunt. We would spend the entire day in the mountains. I also attribute my love of nature to my sixth-grade teacher, who took us to Rocky Mountain National Park and before we walked across the tundra, he told us to step only on the patches of snow. Of course we then all looked very closely at the beautiful tundra flora to see what Mr. Klink did not want us to step on.  What a wonderful way to get a child to look closely at nature.

How did NatureTrack evolve?

I was the Outreach Coordinator at UCSB Sedgwick Reserve, where I oversaw the docent program and the K-12 program.  It was my desire to reach more students that led me to leaving Sedgwick and starting NatureTrack.

Knowing I was frustrated I couldn’t reach more students, it was actually my husband who encouraged me to start NatureTrack.  He bought me the book “How to Form a 501(c)(3) Corporation” and “How to Write a One-Page Business Plan.”  I took the books and went to town.

I left Sedgwick February 2011, volunteering with them until June and on November 2 launched NatureTrack.  We were on the trail the very next day. That year we provided 600 students with a NatureTrack outdoor field trip.  We have grown every year and I’m proud to say that to date we have provided nearly 14,000 students with a NatureTrack outdoor experience.  And, our schedule is filling up quickly this year again. Teachers are submitting their field trip reservations earlier and earlier as it is first come, first serve.

Can you tells us a about your experience of the kids once they start learning about trees and insects and ecosystems, etc.?

I think a note written by a third-grade student who said, “I never knew nature could be that FUN” sums it up.

What is the most rewarding thing about your program?

There are many rewarding things – being outdoors with the students and volunteers; hearing teachers say how much they enjoyed the trip; reading student thank-you notes, spending time with the volunteers.

Can you tell us about a specific experience in nature with a child or adult that sticks out in your mind?

I think when the students take their shoes and socks off and play in the creek.  So many kids have never done that … fearful at first, but at ease after a few minutes.

What would you ultimately like to see happen with your program?

I would like to see NatureTrack expand to other geographical areas.   It’s an idea that can work in most areas.

Can you tell us about a challenge you have experienced and overcome along the way to creating this organization?

Fundraising is the main challenge for any new nonprofit.  It is and continues to be for NatureTrack, but I have established an endowment fund that I hope will grow and someday be able to sustain NatureTrack for many years to come. … I still have the challenge of finding those individuals or private foundations that believe in our mission and will contribute to the endowment.

Was it difficult to start?

No. …  I was careful to not book too many field trips the first year as I needed to build our volunteer base, because our network of volunteers provides leadership of one volunteer for every five students.

Does NatureTrack have a program for adults as well?

Beyond our docent-volunteer program for adults, we have a quarterly “Family Adventure” program, which encourages families to be outdoors together. We take families out and lead the “adventure” similar to a field trip where we encourage exploration and discovery together; we play nature games with the families, and show parents how much fun nature can be when shared with their children.

How can someone get involved with NatureTrack?

Go to www.naturetrack.org, complete and submit the on-line volunteer questionnaire, email me at sue@naturetrack.org, or call 805-886-207.  Our mantra is “NatureTrack fits around your schedule. You do not need to schedule around NatureTrack.”

What is the most challenging aspect about running NatureTrack?

Fundraising is critical and challenging – grant research and grant submissions. It is also critical and challenging to recruit new volunteers.  The most worrisome aspect of NatureTrack is that as we continue to grow in numbers of students that the quality and experience of each trip is as good if not better than the last.  So far, so good.

What events do you have coming up?

The Inaugural NatureTrack Film Festival on March 23-25, 2018.  Tickets are on sale at www.NatureTrackFilmFestival.org

Robbie Kaye is a photographer, artist and author of “Beauty and Wisdom.” She is also completing the “Ladies of the Valley” documentary. Follow her at www.robbiekaye.com and @ladiesofthevalley or @robbiekaye on Instagram.

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Ginger Cleland, owner of Designs In Gold Antique & Estate store in Solvang, moved from St. Louis to the valley in 2008 with her husband Jim.

One of my closest friends, a fellow Missourian, introduced me to Ginger and from that moment, I knew I had to interview her.  I wanted to know more about her and her journey and the determination and verve with which she created her very successful business in Solvang.

One can tell that each piece in her store is curated with great care and knowledge. Like all the beautiful pieces in her store, she shines and welcomes all who walk in.

Was it an easy decision to move to the valley?

The decision to move wasn’t difficult. I knew that running a small independent jewelry store in a metropolitan area was going to become incredibly difficult with the economic crash on the way. The biggest challenge we had was that our son, Albert, was a senior in high school. He was 18 at the time so he stayed in Missouri for his last year of high school.

We sold our store in St. Louis and drove three days west in a U-Haul with the contents of our store.

How did you get interested in the jewelry business?

My initial interest was in business, and jewelry became the product. When I was in college at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, I met my husband Jim, who owned Southern Illinois Gem Company. I loved him and his store and the idea of running a business with him, and it happened to be jewelry.

Where did you start, and how long did it take to get to where you are now?

We married in May of 1987 and by September we had moved to Mascoutah, Ill., for family support and opened our first store in St. Louis that was an hour away. That store failed after the first year.

We then had an opportunity to lease a space in the lower level of a fine antique gallery in the Central West End of St. Louis.  This is where and when I had the good fortune to mentor under Marianne Kovac of West End Antiques Gallery. She was a gorgeous, smart woman with a keen eye for the finest of antique furniture, accessories, silver, fabrics and fashion.  She taught me the art of the deal in the antique furnishing world in 1990.

What were some of the challenges you faced in transitioning to your own business?

The biggest challenge was being young and convincing people much older than I that I had some authority in these subjects.

What are some steps needed to build a good business reputation?

The steps are don’t lie, cheat or steal, pay your bills, and live within your means.  Product knowledge and length and depth of experience in the jewelry profession only come by doing it daily.

What is the most rewarding thing about selling jewelry?

I find it very rewarding meeting people with the same appreciation of fine craftsmanship and skill that it requires to create an outstanding piece of jewelry or fine art.

What was the most challenging thing about opening your own jewelry store?

The most challenging thing … is the time in takes to build a good reputation. People have to have confidence and trust in your knowledge and ability to care for their personal jewelry.

How do you decide on what estate or antique jewelry you will buy and then sell?

When purchasing antique and estate jewelry I always start with construction and how well it was made. Then I look at aesthetics. Once the piece passes those first two criteria I look at cost, and can it be a good value for my customer.

What advice would you give to an entrepreneur just starting out?

My advice … would be patient and have confidence in your God-given talents and ability.

What is your favorite time of year in the valley, and why?

My favorite time of year anywhere is springtime!  I was born in March, so I love the rebirth of the season. It reminds me there is always the opportunity to start fresh.

How can people contact you?

You can typically find me at the store: Designs In Gold, 1640 Copenhagen Drive in Solvang (805-693-8700).

Photographer and artist Robbie Kaye is the author of “Beauty and Wisdom” and is working on completing the “Ladies of the Valley” documentary. Follow her at www.robbiekaye.com @ladiesofthevalley @robbiekaye on Instagram.

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You know you’ve met someone special when you walk away after spending time with her and feel more energized and enlightened in some way.

This is definitely my experience of Julie Samuels Metheany, teacher and owner of Bloom Yoga Studio.

Julie Samuels Metheany, teacher and owner of Bloom Yoga Studio.

Samuels Metheany is a fantastic teacher, therapist, business owner, mother and grandmother. She contributes meaningful and positive energy to the community and I am lucky to call her my friend.

She lived in Santa Barbara before moving to Boulder, Colo., and moved to the valley in 1998 when her husband got a job in Lompoc.

LOV: What are some of your favorite things to do here in the valley?

I love to swim in the river when it’s flowing, hike Refugio, Gaviota, Grass Mountain … I love the event Real Men Cook and the New Frontiers Music on the Green, Tales from the Tavern, Live Oak in summer. I am really enjoying all the new restaurants that have sprung up.

 Was it difficult to get your yoga studio started?

I had been teaching Nia at the YMCA for 5 years before, so I actually had students follow me to the studio and that helped. Some of my other teachers had followings as well.  I think the biggest hurdle now and then is to educate students that they don’t have to be advanced to come to Bloom. I hear that a lot.

There is this sense that “I need to be good at it before I come to a studio,” and yet we offer beginner to advanced level classes that are a right fit for each person. Starting at a beginner class and or with privates (lessons), then working your way up (or not), is always the best.

Tell us a little about your professional background.

I’m actually a therapist with a private practice. I was a dietitian after undergrad school and then realized after a few years in the field that most of my clients had been long-term diet/bingers/diet/bingers and needed more from me than a creative food plan, so I went back to grad school for psychotherapy.

Most of my work has been in eating disorders working in in-patient and outpatient clinics. In the last 20 years I have spent a lot of my focus on the mind-body approach to food and teaching our bodies wisdom as a way out of that cycle.

What attracted you to working with eating disorders?

Food disorders are so prevalent. Nobody really knows what or how to eat, and the food industry and the diet industry want it that way. The diet industry is $80 billion strong, so any time there is a new food craze they jump on it with all kinds of advertisement.  Our inner eater knows if we listen. We all knew when we where young.

Where did you get your training in yoga?

I trained with Shiva Ray and here in the valley with Mary Kay West. I also have done lots of workshops around the country, including working with Rod Stricker and Jeanne Heileman.

What are some of your favorite classes to teach?

I love teaching the three modalities: Nia, Evolutions, yoga. I think they really compliment each other. Nia is a cardio class with the element of the fun and play … Working out for the sake of working out is not enjoyable for me … Evolutions and yoga keep my students and me fit and far away from injuries.

Can you give us an example of a client transform into a healthier version of himself or herself?

I had a student /client come to the YMCA for a few months and not be able to  get out of her car. She was too scared. It took her a while just to come into class, she was so afraid of moving in front of people. She would come and leave without really talking and connecting.  Today she is 100 pounds lighter and dances three times a week, not just with me but in other venues as well.

What did you have to overcome to get where you are today?

I grew up with learning disabilities and they didn’t really know what to do then, so I just felt dumb. When I got accepted to graduate school I remember thinking. “They must need the money,” not realizing that this story about myself was still following me.

How do you balance running a business with family, friends, fun and staying healthy?

I make my mental, emotional and physical health a priority, not every day but a lot. I also feel lucky because I love both my jobs.  I get to be real and talk about real things, which help me stay present.

I would much rather know about the inner world of someone than talk about any thing else. It’s easy to fall in love with anyone when you realize we’re not that different from each other.  I started a consistent meditation practice in the morning and even if I only have 15 minutes before I have to hit the road running, I pause and either listen to inspirational music, lectures, or just bask in appreciation. I try to do this more thoughout the day as well.

For more information, go to http://bloomyogasolvang.com or call 805-350-0318.

The post Yoga teacher, therapist, businesswoman maintains her balance appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Anna Wildling
Photo by Robbie Kaye

Anna Widling and her husband raised their family in Orcutt, but always thought about living in the Santa Ynez Valley. Three years ago they followed their hearts and have been living here ever since.

I had the honor of meeting Anna Widling at a luncheon for the Rona Barrett Foundation volunteers. Like a high-powered Lear jet, she “flew” into the luncheon from the Golden Village Inn, where she is the director of programs and wellness services.

Her passion about her work will, I hope, inspire some to join her on the crusade for making the world a better place for our beloved seniors.

LOV: What did you do before working with the Rona Barrett Foundation?

I was a stay-at-home mom to three wonderful children and we also had my parents in our home that I cared for. My daddy suffered from Alzheimer’s and my mom was a medical mess.  We moved them in with us in 1999.

My daddy passed away in November of 2005 and my mom passed away last year … .  Before I began the journey as a stay-at-home mom, I worked as a licensed surgical assistant in oral and maxillofacial plastic surgery and I also taught part-time for Alan Hancock College, teaching CPR and first aid.

When I left my position working in surgery, I decided to begin an in-home business; Creative Consulting Design.  I did event planning … I offered consulting, coordination, floral design, decorating, props, fabric draping, vocals and anything someone could come up with in their imagination they wanted to do. My motto was, “Turning your Dreams into a Reality.”

I soon became a private contractor to several resorts, one of which was The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort in Solvang.  I managed the River Grill for four years (and she eventually became director of guest relations).

I was still running my business on the side and I could see that something needed to give.  My time with the Alisal had to be shortened as my mom’s health was failing. I knew that I needed to be with her full-time. I took an extended leave of absence and once I did, I realized that my heart was not in it any longer.  … I knew that I wanted to redirect my energy to a different place, a place where my heart could do its best work.”

LOV: What attracted you to that position? 

Having taken care of my parents in our home had given me a wealth of knowledge and a passion for low-income seniors. My parents could not care for themselves and only survived on Social Security. Ms. Rona and I were completely in sync in our beliefs and I knew in the depths of my soul that this was truly my life’s calling.

LOV: What is the most rewarding thing about your job?

The most rewarding thing about my job is the joy I see on the faces of our residents. They now live in a beautiful, safe and caring place that they can call home. I receive endless hugs throughout the day. I absolutely love the seniors that I serve.

LOV: What is the most difficult thing about your job?

Knowing that life changes like the tides of the ocean. Most of our residents are here to age in place. We will be building “Harry’s House,” an assisted-living and memory care facility, and we will transition some of our residents to the facility. … It is bittersweet knowing that this is the last destination for this aging-in-place process.

LOV: What personal challenges have you had to overcome?

I think I am my worst critic, and that has been my biggest personal challenge. I always think that I could have done more, been more and given more. At some point I had to stop the negative self-talk and accept that while I am a perfectionist, I will never be perfect.

LOV: What is your favorite thing to do in the valley? 

I enjoy taking long walks with my husband. We walk all over Solvang, taking in the wonderful smells of fudge and fresh bread, and sometimes we make time to stop for a little wine tasting.

LOV: How do you find balance in your life?

I come home after a long day and share a nice dinner with my hubby, Alan. He is always interested in hearing about the goings-on of my day. My balance is my family. They keep me focused and grounded. We have three grown children and two beautiful grandchildren that live close by. They are my “happy place.”

LOV: Can you tell us something about your musical side?

I have been singing as long as I can remember. I began playing the flute in third grade and kept it going all through my school years. … I belonged to choir in school and also in my church. As an adult, I directed children, youth and adult choir and led many musicals.

LOV: Besides work, what are you passionate about?

I am passionate about my family. My grandson, Anthony, has Duchene Muscular Dystrophy and we are very involved with the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Our son Michael has neurofibromatosis I, and we are also very involved with the Children’s Tumor Foundation.

LOV: Can you tell us something about you that not many people know?

I was in competitive swimming from a very young age, so swimming is a great joy to me. One of these days I would like to get my groove on again and join up with a masters swim team.

LOV: How can someone learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Golden Inn and Village?

They can contact me directly at 805-697-7605 or anna@ronabarrettfoundation.org. We are always looking for artists, musicians and speakers.

Photographer and fine artist Robbie Kaye is the author of “Beauty and Wisdom” and the documentary “Ladies of the Valley.” Her work c

The post Ladies of the Valley Column appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Ladies of the Valley

By Robbie Kaye

The day before I met with Audrey Griffin for her interview, the horse she was riding slipped and fell in the mud. She suffered a concussion, a fractured shoulder and 15 to 20 stitches in her leg as well as stitches in her lip and face.

Even so, she still permitted — no, warmly welcomed — me into her home to interview her for this column. I think that encapsulates the kind of woman Griffin is: kind, courageous, unstoppable and determined.

Local cowgirl Audrey Griffin loves attending cattle brandings and helping with roping at ranches all around the valley.

This ordeal also did not stop Griffin, at 80 years old, from going to a clinic that she was invited to by the Cowgirl Hall Of Fame, to demonstrate roping for a group of cowgirls the following week in Montana.

When I thanked her for being an incredible trouper she simply said, “You can’t be any other way.”

Griffin has lived in the valley for 26 years and was born and raised in Santa Monica. When she was 11 years old, her father took her riding at the Sunset ranch in Culver City. She met a friend there whose parents owned the stable, they hit it off, and from then on she spent most of her free time there until she was 19.

At age 13 she learned how to drive a team of horses. She learned how to harness the team and hitch them to the wagon and later would take kids out for rides in the wagon around Culver City, when the roads were still country roads around farm fields.

Once, in the seven years that Griffin drove hay wagons, she drove the horses to UCLA from Culver City. This was around 1949, so the traffic wasn’t that bad. She’d go to the frat houses and drop off people and pick people up. She did that for a few hours in the evening and then at midnight she’d get back to the ranch, which took an hour to an hour and a half.

Griffin’s mother told her that when she was a very young child she would get so excited when she passed the pony rides, they would have to stop and give her a ride. When she was older Griffin told her parents she wanted a fast horse.

What drew you to horses?

“I think you’re born with a passion, and I was born with a passion to ride horses. That’s all I could think about. I could sleep, eat and dream about horses. That’ s all I ever thought about and to this day.  I’ve met a lot of good people in the horse world, and it’s been a real good ride.”

When did you get your first horse?

I didn’t get my first horse until I was 50 years old, but I rode everybody else’s up until then, which is good. I learned a lot of different mounts.

Audrey Griffin performs with the Flying Valkyries.

In 1956, I was asked to go out on the road with a Roman-riding jumping act called The Flying Valkyries.  I traveled all around the U.S. and Canada, performing in all the rodeos and horse shows. It was a wonderful time for me.

Roman riding is when you stand on two horses and jump jumps.  Our jumps were 4-foot, 2-inches and I’d hook a third horse up and I’d jump three horses and then one horse on each end, five horses abreast, and I’d jump that as well. That was like a three-foot jump.

I would go to sleep at night and would dream about making the perfect jump. I can’t tell you the euphoric feeling you get when you make the perfect jump. I got that feeling a lot when I would Roman ride, just standing on my horses. It felt so good.

What other jumps did you do?

We’d hook up a tandem, where there were six horses, like a stage coach, 2 in each row, and I’d stand on the back horses (the wheeler horses) and I’d drive them around figure eights and around barrels and jump them on each side of the arena.

Were you scared?

No, it wasn’t scary because when I was 12 years old my friend Sue, had a riding team and inviting me to jump logs and I said yes. After Sue completed her jump over the log she came back and said, “Now it’s your turn.”

I loped around and I jumped the log and I thought, “Uh oh, I really like this.”

Can you share a little more about “The Flying Valkyries?”

There were three girls and six white horses in the Roman riding act. One of the girls asked me to join after another performer hurt her foot. … My mother gave me her blessings and was elated for the experience I would have.

I was 19 when I went out on the road. I did that for two years and then I went to Brussels, Belgium, with a Wild West group of all my cowboy and cowgirl friends.  I did barrel racing and square dancing on horseback and keyhole and poles.  There would be eight horses in the arena and it was a lot of fun. I did that for two months and I’m still friends with my co-performers.

When Griffin came home from Brussels, she went to work for Campbell’s clothing store and married the family’s youngest son.

We had a beautiful life with five daughters and I rode off and on during that time. When the children came along, as soon as they could sit up, I’d take them riding. I’d put the children in front of me and ride. I did it with all five children.  It kept my hand in the riding and then when I was 50 years old I bought my first thoroughbred horse, $400, off the racetrack and I had a partner in that horse, Gerald.  He told me if I break the horse, we’ll sell it and we’ll do another one.  My work with that horse was coming along and after about a year I told my partner, “I think it’s time to sell the horse” and he asked me if I really wanted to sell it and I say no, but we made a deal.  And he said, “I’m gifting you the horse.”  I rode that horse up in the hills and really, he was one of my best friends, the love of my life.

What does breaking or finishing a horse mean?

It just means that you are teaching the horse manners. Manners to stand still, to go forward, left right, back up.  And you do that through dressage, the basic horsemanship skills.  And you do that very gently and slowly so they don’t get excited or upset.  The reason you have to teach (train) racehorses new skills is because they don’t learn those ‘manners’ as a racehorse.

Did you ever fall?

Oh yeah, I had lots of wrecks, a few bad wrecks.  The last wreck Roman riding was the worst because I was in the Chicago amphitheater and I was riding the six-up and the first four horses jumped over the jump and the horses I was standing on didn’t. So they stopped abruptly and I went down and hit my nose and ended up upside down on my lines. I was hanging from the lines I was driving the horses with, and they carried me out of the arena.  I chipped a bone in my neck, hurt my leg, and had to have water taken off my knee. They put me in a cast and eventually I got shipped home.

And that was the last time you did that?

No, I did it again with a dear friend, Christy. In fact, I went Roman riding last year and I’ll ride Roman again this year.

So you rode roman when you were 79?

That’s right, and I’ll ride Roman again this year.

Can you please tell us a little something about your roping career?

I rope at the Alisal Ranch in the summer time. They have a rodeo for the guests. I team rope there every Wednesday night in the summer and have done it for years.

Were you welcomed by men in the arena?

Very much so. I was taught by a lot of men. The cowboys are very understanding and welcoming to anyone who is learning how to rope. Every ranch you go to, they’re teaching you their way of doing things. I’ve been taught by a lot of good people.

There’s a risk in this kind of work and I ask how to do it correctly, so I don’t get hurt.

What do you do when you’re not riding?

I love being with my girlfriends. We’ll have dinner and lunch together and I spend a lot of time with my five daughters and being a grandma.  I have 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. They call me “Mother Goose,” Goose for short.

I had them all on a horse with me when there were about 6 months old. They’ve all ridden with me… it’s wonderful.

Robbie Kaye is a photographer and author of “Beauty and Wisdom” and “Ladies of the Valley” documentary. Her work can be seen at www.robbiekaye.com.

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By Robbie Kaye

Claudia Miro is woman on the go. She loves to travel and bring back adventures from her experiences, whether from Peru or Seattle, for life or business — and she shares what she’s gleaned from her time away.

Claudia is a soul searcher and connector for people and their business.  She’s got big dreams and great ideas that she is passionate about bringing to the valley.

How long have you lived in the valley?

I grew up in Santa Ynez and Solvang and lived here until 18. In 1998 I graduated high school and moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to go to college and play basketball. I moved back in August of 2013.

What brought you back?

Family, a need for grounding and a slower pace. Regrouping after having lived in the Andes of Peru working for an orphanage and other nonprofits there.

Where else have you lived?

I lived in the Bay Area, Cusco and Lima, Peru.

What kind of business do you have in the valley?

I own two businesses: My primary is a company called The Inspired Brand, that offers transformational brand strategy, design, and website design and development for entrepreneurs and organizations wishing to make a difference with their brand.

My second business is called The Network SYV, a small co-working space and entrepreneur’s hub in downtown Santa Ynez. We offer office, meeting and event space to locals on a flexible basis so that they can work, host meetings, brainstorming sessions, workshops and more. It’s been a space for community, connection, creativity and entrepreneurship, and I love it!

What made you want to start the kind of business you’re in?

I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and a combination of small business, corporate and nonprofit experience as well as strategic, technical, creative skills that have all kind of woven together over the years. In 2008, I was laid off from an amazing job with a coaching and consulting firm in the Silicon Valley. Although I had already begun to feel disillusioned with the corporate world, it was a scary and uncertain time.

Like many people I knew, I found myself having to quickly figure out how to turn my unique set of skills and passions into a profitable business and survive on my own. I started freelancing quite organically as a result of helping a few of the coaches and consultants I worked with in my previous role, who were looking to start elevating their online platforms and build independent businesses through leveraging the web.

So I rolled up my sleeves, got to work, and C. Miro Consulting was born. I rebranded and launched The Inspired Brand a about a year and a half ago.

What goals do you have for your business?

My goal is to leverage my knowledge and experience and help many more people design businesses and brands with soul. I am excited to finally launch a few of my own online programs and be able to teach and empower more people to grow their online businesses. I’ll be launching a mentorship program and a DIY website course over the next couple of months that I’m super excited about, and eventually begin to host Inspired Brand retreats locally here in Santa Ynez and in other beautiful places such as Seattle and Costa Rica.

Challenges to overcome along the way?

I think my biggest challenges have come from overcoming insecurity and lack of self worth. Those have by far been the most painful challenges, but I’m happy to say the most fruitful and rewarding to overcome as well.

How did you get through those challenges?

My family, friends, mentors, teachers, healers and faith — in myself and that there is a master plan and a purpose for every person and every thing that happens to us in life. That “knowing” has gotten me through some very difficult times.

Lessons learned from those challenges?

I am stronger, and more capable than I could ever imagine, and I can truly do anything I set my mind and heart to. That I am always loved and supported even when I don’t remember that.

Do you have any mentors that you could tell us about?

I belong to several different communities and networks of entrepreneurs, women business owners, and coaching circles. Currently I have a business advisor who’s amazing through WEV (Women’s Economic Ventures) as part of their Thrive in Five program, and I am part of Alison Maslan’s Pinnacle Global Network … (among others).

What other things do you do to practice healthy living?

I have a very full plate and I run a lot of energy in my day to day, so it’s pretty essential that I move my body and take time to decompress as much as possible. I love yoga, Nia, Zumba, and other forms of dance, hiking, and taking boot camp-style classes. I try to meditate, eat sustainably and organically and generally try to be as conscious as possible in how I live my life.

What would you suggest for those who would like to engage in a healthy practice for living?

So much of what I’ve come to learn about health stems from having a true connection to your self, a relationship to your inner world, and healing anything that may have gotten in the way of truly loving yourself. When you love yourself, you honor your body; when it needs rest, when it needs movement, when it needs fuel.

Oh, and breathe … learn how to breathe, and do it as much as possible.

When you’re not working here in the valley, what are you doing and where?

I travel quite a bit. This past year I’ve been to Portland; Seattle and Vashon Island; San Diego; Boulder and Denver; and Costa Rica. This year will be a chance to reconnect to those places, and head back to Peru for the first time in four years, so that will be a special trip.

Find out more about The Inspired Brand or Network SYV at www.theinspiredbrand.com.

Photographer Robbie Kaye is the author of “Beauty and Wisdom” and the “Ladies of the Valley” documentary. Her work can be seen at www.robbiekaye.com and her paintings in person at the Los Olivos General Store in Los Olivos. Connect on Instagram, FB and Twitter, @ladiesofthevalley.

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