Redondo Beach, CA February 2026

All the Ways We Love Local

With the new year well underway, February reminds us that we are surrounded by the warmth and spirit of love—not just for one another, but for our vibrant community. This month, we embrace the theme Love Local , spotlighting the heart and soul of our city through inspiring stories and cherished places.

We invite you to discover a collection of favorite spots around town, as recommended by our residents and readers. Our community is filled with hidden gems and beloved establishments where connections are made and memories take shape. From cozy cafés to bustling restaurants, these local favorites celebrate the unique flavor and spirit of Redondo Beach.

We also share the touching story of a mother-daughter duo behind a local flower business. Their shared passion for nature and artistry not only produces stunning arrangements, but also strengthens their bond. Their journey is a beautiful reminder of how love can flourish in both family and entrepreneurship, enriching our community in countless ways.

You’ll also find the inspiring story of a local dad who dedicates his time to helping under-resourced young women play competitive soccer. His commitment to mentorship, teamwork, and opportunity embodies the true spirit of community support—highlighting the transformative power of sports and the importance of giving back.

This month, we invite you to celebrate the local businesses, individuals, and stories that make Redondo Beach truly special. Together, let’s share our love for the places we cherish and the people who enrich our community.

With full hearts,

BRANDON FARMER, PUBLISHER, LESLEY A. ROLLO, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @REDONDOBEACHCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Brandon Farmer | brandon.farmer@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Lesley A. Rollo | lesley.rollo@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Erika Daniels

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Haley Elder

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Proverbs

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Redondo Beach City Lifestyle’s “Mix & Mingle” Holiday Mixer. 1: Deborah Hansen (KHYC) and Diane Sanders (Estate Properties) pose for a selfie. 2: Cherie, Corey, and Brian Hicks (Chandler’s Roofing) with Oscar Sanchez (Coastal Beach Cities Restoration). 3: Pam Pannacci and Julie Goiset from Amie House, show off their RBCL Mixer raffle prizes. 4: Tim Personius (Discount Window and Door), Brandon Farmer (RBCL), and Sean Mounce, (WestPac Wealth Partners). Redondo Beach Police Officer Association’s Santa Sleigh Tradition. 5: RUHS students Alexa Farmer, Olivia Reeds, and Kayla Armstrong enjoy a moment with Santa. 6: Neighbors James, Ado, Jackson, Amelia holding baby Parker, Jordan, Oli, and Elia aboard Santa's sleigh. 7: Parker Doiron experiences Santa’s sleigh for the first time. (No smiles for this kid!)

Estate Properties’ Annual Holiday Brunch. 15: Estate Properties Management Team—James, CEO; John, CTO; and Diane, CMO—announce the door prize winners. 16: Jim Ghannadi wins the 1,176 piece model house assembled and donated by RBCL. 17: Kelly Evans snuggles up with a Santa gnome for a festive moment. 18: Darlene Jones, GiGi Griffin, and her husband Cor Van Diepen enjoy the afternoon together. 19: Michael Foster, Nadia Foster, and Ronnie Ratzlaff (seated), with Maureen Megowan and DeBorah Rugley Wiley. 20: Dede Hsu, Anowheh Moghaddam, and Dri Barron soak up the brunch festivities. 21: Lynn Lord, Michele Nelson, Joanne Galin, Amy Kim White, and Nancy Hernandez.

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Amie House Welcomes New Providers

Dr. Virginia Prior, Acupuncturist, and Julie Goiset, Massage Therapist, have joined the Amie House collective, bringing their expertise, passion, and personalized care to the wellness community. Together, they guide clients toward balance, resilience, and overall well-being with treatments tailored to support health and vitality. The Amie House team is thrilled to welcome Virginia and Julie and looks forward to the positive impact they will bring.

Scan to read more

Juicy Dumpling Factory Arrives in Redondo Beach

There’s even more buzz happening in North Redondo as the surge of hot spots continues along Aviation Blvd. The Juicy Dumpling Factory is now open on the corner of Aviation and Artesia boulevards, serving up handmade dumplings, flavorful noodles, stir-fry dishes, and other Asian-inspired favorites. With its cozy, inviting atmosphere and focus on authenticity, it’s a favorite stop for locals craving dim sum-style comfort food. Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options are available.

Chronic Tacos Brings “Taco Life” to Redondo Beach

Chronic Tacos recently opened a new location at 1509 Hawthorne Blvd. in Redondo Beach, bringing its "Taco Life" experience to the South Bay. This new spot offers customizable tacos, burritos, bowls, and more, continuing the brand's expansion of over 60 locations across the U.S., Canada, and Japan, while delivering bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a laid-back vibe inspired by SoCal taquerias and family recipes.

I NG UP LOCAL L O

V E

In Redondo Beach, love shows up in everyday moments—bumping into a friend at the grocery store, walking the dog along the Esplanade, Sunday brunch by the beach, bike rides on the Strand, and sunsets that never get old. It also shows up at the neighborhood restaurants that make those moments even better. For this Love Local feature, we asked residents to share their go-to dining spots—the places they return to for celebrations, comfort, connection, and of course, great food. This Valentine’s season, it’s a reminder that one of the best ways to show love—romantic or otherwise—is by supporting the local businesses that nourish our town year-round.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED RESIDENTS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE GO-TO SPOTS IN REDONDO BEACH.

ARTICLE

BY LESLEY A. ROLLO |

CHERIE HICKS NAR ABDAIAN

My Go-To: Rebel Republic

Rebel Republic is a laid-back favorite known for its sunsoaked patio and lively atmosphere. Whether stopping in for happy hour, brunch, or a casual dinner, it’s the kind of place that invites you to linger a little longer.

As Cherie notes, “It’s on the side of the street that gets the sun all year round, so it’s easy to enjoy the weather. They have excellent Old Fashioned cocktails… and great service. Their pretzel is a splurge on those cheat days! They have an excellent happy hour daily and their Wednesday burger all day specials are another great cheat meal. Their breakfast burrito is to live for. It’s a fun place to hang out and people-watch any day of the week.”

My Go-To: UGO

UGO is a stylish Italian eatery that blends modern energy with timeless flavors, offering a lively dining experience rooted in quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.  Nar expands on the best parts: “UGO is one of those places that instantly transports me. I love the boutique setup and the way the entire space evokes the Amalfi Coast… What truly keeps me coming back is the coffee. UGO serves Italian coffee made from a blend of five different beans sourced directly from Italy… Add to that their delicious pastries and gelato, and it becomes an easy favorite. Whether I’m stopping in for a quick espresso or lingering a bit longer, UGO delivers a combination of atmosphere, quality, and Italian flavor that feels both indulgent and comforting.”

CHADWICK CASTLE MICKEY JOHNSON

My Go-To: The Rex

The Rex is a modern seaside steakhouse that elevates the classic steak-and-wine experience with refined flavors, exceptional service, and a coastal Southern California vibe.

As Chadwick raves, “The Rex is seriously one of the best spots in the South Bay. Chef Walter Nunez is fantastic. Every dish feels thoughtful and perfectly executed, especially the steaks. You can tell there’s real passion behind the menu. The atmosphere is classy, yet relaxed. They have an excellent mix of domestic and international wines. The staff actually knows how to help you pair them with your meal. Overall, Rex is the kind of place that makes you want to linger over dinner, whether for a date night or a gathering with friends.”

My Go-To: The Great Room

The Great Room lives up to its name, offering a welcoming space that works just as well for casual meals as it does for celebrations and group gatherings. Designed with flexibility in mind, it’s a favorite for birthday parties, sports after-parties, and corporate events. The game rooms are packed with entertainment—pool, air hockey, ping pong, foosball, and classic arcade games—making it easy for guests of all ages to have fun.

As Mickey puts it, “There is always room to find a seat whether a comfy couch or a table. Their staff is very helpful and personable. It’s a great place for meetings and WFH. They have a full menu and serve beer and wine. The Salmon Salad is my go-to!”

ANASTASIA BONHOLTZER PAIGE KALUDEROVIC

My Go-To: Mi Burrito

Mi Burrito is known for bold flavors, generous portions, and fast, friendly service. Its menu consists of made-to-order burritos, tacos, and plates using fresh ingredients.

Anastasia reminisces: “Most of my youth was spent in San Diego, where authentic Mexican food was abundant and deeply tied to my community. When I moved to Redondo, I was searching for that same heat, authenticity, and family feel. Mi Burrito delivered… From Taco Tuesdays to street tacos, fajitas, and the must-try wet Mi Burrito, everything tastes like home. Juan, the owner, often jumps behind the bar to greet guests, making everyone feel like family. It’s my go-to for bold flavors and genuine connections. My daughter and I love it almost too much… but is there such a thing?”

My Go-To: Mychal’s Café

Mychal's Café is a bright, welcoming breakfast and lunch café with a big heart and an even bigger mission, known for its friendly, inclusive atmosphere where delicious food and community purpose come together. Locals love the genuine warmth of the staff and the feel-good energy that makes every visit memorable. From freshly brewed coffee and baked goods to satisfying sandwiches and salads, it’s an easy favorite for casual meetups or a relaxed work break.

As Paige says, “Mychal’s Café on Artesia Blvd. is hands down one of the best breakfast and lunch spots around, plus every meal supports their incredible mission to provide job training and employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. Great food, great purpose, great vibe.”

ODETTE ABDAIAN KYLE LOFSTROM

My Go-To: Il Posto

Il Posto is a Riviera Village staple known for its warm hospitality, classic Italian flavors, and inviting neighborhood atmosphere. It’s the kind of restaurant locals return to again and again for consistently good food and an unforgettable dining experience.

As Odette describes it: “What I love most about Il Posto is how authentic it feels. From the chef to the waitstaff, the Italian-American accents, the warmth, and the way you’re welcomed, it feels genuine… You feel that the moment you walk in… My go-to dishes are the grilled veggie salad, the freshly prepared pesto pasta, and the mushroom pasta, simple, flavorful, and always satisfying. Paired with a chilled glass of Chardonnay, Il Posto is my idea of an effortless, perfect meal.”

My Go-To: Redondo Beach Brewing Company

Redondo Beach Brewing Company is a local favorite for its fun, sports bar atmosphere and approachable GastroAmerican cuisine that keeps people coming back. With a wide selection of craft beers on tap and an array of sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and pastas, it’s the perfect spot to gather with friends and family, enjoy a meal after a long day, or just relax and watch the sunset. Spacious seating and friendly service make it ideal for both laid-back dinners and celebratory outings. From hearty entrees to indulgent desserts, there’s something for everyone.

Kyle shares the inside scoop on what to order: “I love to order the Southwest Penne. It’s the best. (Mud Pie for dessert).”

ARTICLE BY LESLEY A. ROLLO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LESLEY A. ROLLO, J FLOWERS

LOVE, IN FULL Bloom

Inside the Mother-Daughter Bond at the Heart of J Flowers.

When Jenny Kim bought J Flowers, the name meant very little. It was practical. Simple. Years later, it would come to represent something more personal: a mother and daughter working side by side, bound not just by a shared initial, but by trust, sacrifice, and a business they would build together.

Jenny was born in Korea and moved with her husband and two young daughters, Rina and Jane, to the United States in 1999, settling in South Torrance. “Flowers were my hobby in Korea,” Jenny said. When the family relocated, Jenny wanted to pursue her passion and find a job at a flower shop, but working in the U.S. came with quiet fears. “I wasn’t good at English. I didn’t have any experience in the U.S.”

Flowers became the place where she felt fluent. She began volunteering at local shops, determined to build her skills. One shop owner in Carson recognized her talent: “He said I was such a good designer, so he hired me.”

Jenny’s background in Ikebana and European-style floral design shaped her approach—minimal, intentional, and rooted in balance. Ikebana taught restraint, the power of negative space, and respect for natural form, while European design encouraged movement and softness. Together, they created a philosophy that values intention over excess—an aesthetic that would quietly define J Flowers long before it had a following.

It was Valentine’s Day that revealed to Jenny the true scale of the floral business in America. “I was shocked on Valentine’s

Day. All day, the customers lined up for blocks and blocks,” Jenny said. “In Korea, Valentine’s Day is not too big… But here, it’s more ‘party’ culture… They love flowers.”

That realization led Jenny and her husband to take a leap in 2001, taking over a flower shop for sale in Playa del Rey. “The store was totally our income,” she explained. “My husband and me, it was a very hard time.” With orders sparse, they aligned with FTD to increase volume, expanding deliveries from a single zip code to 63. The reach helped sustain the business, but margins were tight and family life carefully choreographed. “We tried to deliver before 3 o’clock so we could pick up our two daughters from school. It was crazy.”

After 10 years at the flower shop in Playa del Rey, Jenny worked out of her house before taking over a flower shop named J Flowers in 2013, at the corner of Artesia and Inglewood in Redondo Beach. At the time, the name felt like little more than a practical detail. It wasn’t until later that it took on deeper meaning.

Meanwhile Jane, Jenny’s youngest daughter, was carving her own path. “It was never even an option in my mind that I could do something with [my mom] for the flower shop,” she said. Jenny felt the same. “I never, ever thought about her.” Jane was more athletic growing up, while her older sister pursued art. After college and several years living in Korea—where Jane taught English and worked for a well-known photographer—she returned home and joined her mom at J Flowers, bringing her instincts and vision to the shop.

“I honed in on the mother and daughter owned thing. I wanted it to feel super welcoming… like a neighbor down the street.” -Jane

“The walls were red and yellow. Commercial carpeting on the floor,” Jane recalled. “I realized it was time to remodel the space.” With no formal design training, Jane followed her instincts. “I didn’t really know what I was doing. I just knew what I liked.”

What emerged surprised them both. “Whatever she did, it was very surprising to me,” Jenny said. “She had so much more talent that I didn’t know about.”

As Jane refined the shop’s look, she also clarified its identity. “I honed in on the mother and daughter owned thing,” she explained. “I wanted it to feel super welcoming… like a neighbor down the street.” That focus reshaped everything—from branding to customer experience. “Mother and daughter owned… That’s what I knew encompassed our shop.”

Decals went up. The words “Mother & Daughter Owned” appeared on the windows. Customers noticed. Only then did the name J Flowers feel complete. Jenny had purchased it years earlier without imagining she would one day run it alongside her daughter—another “J.” What began as a coincidence became a reflection of their partnership: something practical, layered over time with meaning.

The shift toward connection transformed the shop. “Before it was a lot of order gathering, like FTD,” Jane said. “It went from impersonal to very personalized. Today, people come in, and they know us. They know Mom.”

That care is most visible during Valentine’s Day, the busiest—and most demanding—time of year. Flowers are ordered at the last possible moment to ensure freshness. Ten designers work side by side. “It’s so hectic,” Jane admitted. “It’s flowers everywhere.” Yet there’s beauty in the chaos. “I love making my way into the middle of all the flowers and just sitting down,” Jane said. “It feels so full in the best way.”

Jenny feels it too. “I’m just so happy that everybody’s here.”

“I was shocked on Valentine's Day. All day, the customers lined up for blocks and blocks.” -Jenny

Their partnership thrives because each brings something essential. “I trust her,” Jenny expressed. “She studied here. She knows American taste and the culture.” Their designs lean organic and natural, inspired by how flowers grow. “What we love doing is to try and recreate what it looks like before the flowers are cut,” Jane explained. “Our customers tell us that they like that our arrangements feel very organic, having a little piece of nature in their home.”

At its core, J Flowers reflects the relationship behind it. “We are still learning about each other,” Jenny said. Jane agrees. “Because we’re so similar, we understand each other’s feelings.”

In a month often devoted to grand romantic gestures, J Flowers tells a quieter story—one of devotion built day by day, stem by stem. What began as a hobby, a risk, and a practical decision has grown into a shared life’s work, rooted in love, resilience, and a name that turned out to be exactly right.

ALISSA WINKLER

Selling real estate wasn’t part of the plan when Alissa Winkler moved to the South Bay in 2018, but like many great life chapters, hers unfolded unexpectedly — and for the better. When the world shifted in 2020, so did her career path. What began as a pivot quickly transformed into a true calling.

Alissa holds a BFA in Interior Design and spent her early career in the commercial furniture industry as both a designer and project manager. That professional foundation honed her meticulous attention to detail, refined her communication skills, and provided invaluable onsite knowledge that now serves her clients during property preparation, negotiations, and inspections.

Five years into real estate, some may still call her a newcomer, but her clients and peers know otherwise. She was named Rookie of the Year by the South Bay Association of REALTORS® and served as Chair of the Young Professionals Network. Her work ethic rivals that of the most seasoned agents, and her heart-forward approach truly sets her apart. Alissa treats her clients like close friends, guiding them with honesty, patience, and steady, level-headed support through one of life’s biggest milestones.

Beyond real estate, Alissa is deeply rooted in the community. She serves on the Board of Directors for Leadership Hermosa Beach and is an Ambassador for the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, roles that keep her closely connected to local leaders, businesses, and residents.

In her free time, she can often be found on The Strand, exploring Riviera Village, or enjoying a hot yoga class. Originally from the East Coast, Alissa and her husband of eight years were drawn to the South Bay’s laid-back coastal lifestyle. In August 2025, they welcomed their daughter, Sienna, and are excited to raise her in this beautiful corner of Los Angeles.

Setting Higher Goals

Billy Hansen took to soccer from a young age and built a life around the game. He played high school, college, and professionally in Brazil—an experience that widened his world beyond the South Bay bubble and deepened his love for the sport.

Years later, that same passion found new meaning when Billy became a father to three daughters. “I started coaching my daughters when I was still playing,” he explained. “That was kind of a transition when I figured it’s time to not play as much and coach more.”

What began as coaching soon became advocacy. After helping families who couldn’t afford club soccer, Billy had a moment that would change everything. While scouting a game in 2016, he met a standout player named Izabella—and soon after, her friend Ashly from South Central Los Angeles.

“Right there was the birth of SIFA,” Billy said. “When I went out there and saw these girls playing with boys… these kids could play. They just didn’t have the coaching.”

Soccer Is For All (SIFA) was officially formed in October 2023, built on the belief that talent should never be limited by finances. SIFA covers club fees—often around $4,000 per player per year. “To me, at the end of the day, these kids need a fair chance,” Billy said.

ARTICLE BY LESLEY A. ROLLO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

What SIFA also provides goes far beyond soccer. There are clinics, college prep workshops, mentoring, and exposure to college coaches. For the last two years, SIFA has hosted “Rising Stars”—an inner-city high school all-star girls soccer event. “We promoted it as a showcase,” Billy said. “I think we had three college coaches the first year. The second year, we had seven.”

Those opportunities matter because, as Billy pointed out, “Those coaches aren’t going out to those inner-city rec leagues to watch the kids play.” Exposure to college coaches, he explained, is essential to a player’s future, opening doors to higher-level competition, recruitment, and, in some cases, scholarships. “If they’re not in the club system, they’re not going to develop and they’re not going to get that exposure.”

“Our first and foremost objective is to give them the confidence to start thinking about [college],” Billy explained. He tells the girls, “Every single one of you can. You just have to make sure you do the work.”

That confidence is paying off. Over the last three seasons, SIFA has helped 25 first-generation college students take that next step. More than 100 under-resourced players have been sponsored at the club level, and 1,000 underserved youth have been reached through free clinics.

“Probably more important is just to see their self-esteem grow,” Billy said. “They get better and their self-esteem improves. It’s hand in hand.”

Today, SIFA is supported by volunteers who mentor the girls, including Sheldon Thomas, Assistant Coach at West Los Angeles College; Jeff Joyner,

Associate Head Coach at California State University, Long Beach; and Patricia O’Keefe, an independent education consultant with ties to USC. Guest speakers such as Wendy Espejel, coach of the Mexico Youth National Team and Head Coach at Soka University, reinforce what’s possible. Still, sustaining SIFA depends on community support. Donations help cover team fees, operating costs, clinics, and college programming that allow the organization to continue expanding access. “There’s so many kids out there that just need the opportunity,” Billy explained.

For Billy, a Redondo Beach girl dad, soccer has become a way to help young women set higher goals—on the field, in the classroom, and in life.

“Stuff like that,” he says, “is why I do it.”

MIRROR WORK FOR SELF-LOVE AND ACCEPTANCE

Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? Everyone knows this line from Snow White. The Queen wanted to be the fairest. When she wasn’t, she poisoned beautiful Snow White. Most of us do not believe ourselves to be the fairest, but quite the opposite.

As February is widely known as the month of love, let’s focus on self-love. Often people, especially parents, tend to give a lot to their partners and their children and less to themselves. Sometimes it is challenging for us to silence the inner critic that speaks harshly to ourselves in a way we would never speak to a loved friend or family member. This is where mirror work can help.

Many people have a complicated relationship with the mirror. We don’t always like to look at our reflections. We may find it confronting. Taylor Swift even sings about it in her song Anti-hero: “I’ll stare directly at the sun but never in the mirror.” Why is it so difficult for some of us to gaze with love–or affection–into the mirror?

ARTICLE BY LEA GRIMALDI

Mirror work, a term coined by transformational teacher and selflove expert Louise Hay, founder of Hay House Publishing, and the author of You Can Heal Your Life and Mirror Work: 21 Days to Heal Your Life, is the practice of looking at yourself in the mirror and saying nice things to yourself. You can start with something simple. “I like myself. I am doing the best I can today.” Or even, “Hey sweetie! You look great!” One of my favorites is, “I love, accept, and forgive myself fully and completely.” Mirror work combines well with affirmations, which are positive phrases said in the present tense as if they are already true. The practice of saying affirmations combined with mirror work can increase the benefits of both practices.

The objective of mirror work is to help people silence their inner critic and believe the positive words they are telling themselves while looking at themselves in the mirror.

Mirror work can help with self-esteem issues and can achieve results such as changing a negative body image to a more positive one. Hay developed the practice to increase self-compassion and self-love as part of the daily activities detailed in her 1984 book You Can Heal Your Life

Although it can be confronting and challenging, it is important to practice mirror work regularly to reap the benefits. Set a daily goal of saying affirmations while looking at your reflection in the mirror and seeing how it makes you feel. Start with two minutes a day and work up to five.

As a yoga teacher, I have included mirror work in my classes with clients. Often the first experience with the exercise is somewhat uncomfortable, but with practice, it becomes more natural. When resistance comes up, ask yourself what you are feeling, allow the emotion to be present, and then release it. It may be rooted in a past experience and just needs to be acknowledged and felt before you can let it go.

HERE ARE SOME SIMPLE GUIDELINES FOR HOW TO CREATE A MIRROR WORK PRACTICE:

• Make sure you will be alone and uninterrupted so you can let your guard down and allow emotions to surface

• Try to do it for a set amount of time, such as five minutes every day

• Allow yourself to feel and process whatever emotions show up

• Keep a journal to record your feelings, reactions, and experiences

• Start with less confronting or difficult phrases, and as you become comfortable increase the intensity

Mirror work can be used in tandem with inner-child work because many of the negative limiting beliefs that play in our minds are the result of something we were told as a child that is not true about us or our life. If something negative comes up during mirror work, we can challenge it and write about the feelings in the journal, thus freeing us from that limiting belief.

Inner child work is an approach to recognizing and healing childhood trauma. We all experience traumas as children which affect the way we experience the world. As adults, we can reconnect with the child we once were, in order to heal. Mirror work is one way to help facilitate that process, in addition to talk therapy, meditation exercises, and setting healthy boundaries.

Here are some ideas for affirmations to use with your mirror work. I am strong. I am capable. I can do this. I believe in myself. I know my worth. I can do hard things. My life is abundant. I am happy and healthy in mind, body, and spirit. I believe in myself. I am kind and compassionate. I deserve love and abundance. I am doing my best. I am smart. I am brave. I am powerful.

In the words of Hay, “Doing mirror work is one of the most loving gifts you can give yourself.”

I AM STRONG. I AM CAPABLE. I CAN DO THIS. I BELIEVE IN MYSELF. I KNOW MY WORTH. I CAN DO HARD THINGS. MY LIFE IS ABUNDANT. I AM HAPPY AND HEALTHY IN MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT. I BELIEVE IN MYSELF. I AM KIND AND COMPASSIONATE. I DESERVE LOVE AND ABUNDANCE. I AM DOING MY BEST. I AM SMART. I AM BRAVE. I AM POWERFUL. I AM STRONG.

PERMISSION to be

cheesy

VALENTINE’S DAY CHEESECAKE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE SUPPES

Valentine’s Day is all about showing your loved one just how much you care. Rather than opting for the predictable chocolates and flowers, why not showcase your culinary prowess and create a one-of-a-kind cheesecake? Not only will this delectable treat demonstrate your affection, but it will also add a personal and luxurious touch to the holiday celebration. Make this Valentine’s Day truly memorable by going above and beyond with a heartfelt, homemade gift. Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for two because it’s both rich and indulgent, but not too heavy. Plus, it can be easily customized to fit your own personal taste and it’s much easier than you think!

TO MAKE THE PERFECT CHEESECAKE, YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 pound cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 prepared graham cracker crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, add in the sour cream and heavy cream and mix until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set. Let cool completely before serving.   For this recipe, we decided to add berries and honey to the top of our cheesecake. Take the time to make yours special to your relationship. With toppings such as chocolate, jelly, whip cream, berries, fruit, or whatever your partner’s favorite is you’re sure to make them smile. Make things colorful by adding food coloring to the mix, it can even be made in their favorite color. You can also change things up by making your own crust with Oreos or cinnamon crackers.

To elevate this recipe to the next level, consider using high-quality ingredients such as grass-fed cream cheese and locally sourced honey. For added luxury, try using a blend of different types of berries, or even substituting the graham cracker crust with a crust made of crushed pistachios or hazelnuts.

In addition to adding a variety of toppings, you can also get creative with the presentation. For example, try using a springform pan to create a heart-shaped cheesecake, or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of the cheesecake slices. You can also garnish the cheesecake with edible flowers or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a truly indulgent experience.

Take in sweeping alpine views

DIS COVER THE VALAIS REGION OF SWITZERLAND, WHERE ALPINE TRAILS, THERMAL SPRINGS, AND LOCAL TRADITIONS CREATE RESTORATIVE TRAVEL.

AN ALPINE ESCAPE

AN ALPINE ADVENTURE IN ALETSCH ARENA

An easy train ride from Zurich lands visitors in the Aletsch Arena, a high-alpine region on the south side of the Bernese Alps, home to three villages: Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp. Known for its ski slopes in winter and hiking in summer, the area is entirely car-free, making walking and local buses the main modes of transportation through its quaint chalet-lined streets.

One of the main attractions of the ski-in/ski-out area is the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 12-mile glacier is visible from several vantage points, shaping every experience in the area.

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA

In Switzerland’s Valais region, wellness and adventure are always part of the same itinerary. Morning could bring a high-alpine hike, afternoon a soak in mineral-rich springs, and evening a table set with traditional cuisine, always including delicious wine and cheese. For travelers, the best part will be finding the perfect balance between exploring the outdoors and relaxing with wellness-infused activities in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

WHERE TO STAY

Located in the heart of Bettmeralp, Hotel Panorama provides no-fuss accommodations steps away from the picturesque Chapel Maria Zum Schnee. The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious regional cuisine, including raclette paired with Swiss wine. A good bottle of Pinot Noir or Gamay is also easy to come by because the Valais region of Switzerland is one of the largest wine-producing areas in the country, with vineyards dotting the steep slopes of the Rhône Valley. In addition to wine and cheese, eating cholera, a covered vegetable pie invented in the region during the cholera epidemic, is a must.

WHAT TO DO

Begin at Viewpoint Moosfluh, the closest and lowest vantage point of the Aletsch Glacier. From there, trailheads lead to Villa Cassel, once the home of a British financier and now a museum focused on history and conservation. The hike passes through a thousand-year-old forest with views of both the glacier and the Matterhorn.

Walk over Goms Bridge, a nearly 1,000-foot-long suspension bridge that connects two hiking areas over the Rhône River. For a final look at the majestic glacier, take the cable car to Viewpoint Eggishorn. At nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Jungfraujoch, or the “Top of Europe,” and the most comprehensive view of the Aletsch Glacier.

Your Restoration Lifeline

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