Temecula, CA March 2026

A Letter from the Publishers

Home is more than a structure - it's the feeling you get when you pull into your driveway, the view outside your window, and the spaces that reflect how you live, gather, and grow. In Temecula, home is deeply tied to place: the rolling hills, the early morning quiet, and the familiar sight of hot air balloons rising over neighborhoods as the day begins.

In this Home + Design issue, we’re exploring what it means to feel truly at home — through spaces that balance warmth and function, design inspiration that blends timeless style with modern living, and the kitchens where health, flavor, and intention meet.

Of course, Temecula's sense of home extends beyond four walls. In this issue, you'll also find stories that reflect our region's unique character - from the spirit of travel and craftsmanship found in the Airstream Stetson + 6666 Special Edition, to the seasonal rhythms of spring break and the everyday choices we make during this season.

March also marks a milestone for us. This issue is not only our Home issue, it's the first issue of our third year. Two years in. Twenty-four issues behind us. And somehow, it still feels like we're just getting started.

Our vision for Temecula City Lifestyle is far from complete. Des has notebooks filled, literally filled, with story ideas. There are business owners we haven't featured yet, families we haven't met, creatives we haven't highlighted, and community leaders whose stories are still waiting to be told.

That's the exciting part.

We started this to be something that lasts. Something that grows with Temecula. Something that will still be landing on doorsteps decades from now, telling the evolving story of this place we call home.

To our readers, thank you for trusting us. For opening the magazine. For stopping us in stores to share a favorite article. For inviting us into your homes, quite literally, every month. That trust is never taken lightly.

Thank you for welcoming us in!

SEAN ARNETT

DESIREE ALLEN

@TEMECULACITYLIFESTYLE

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Sean Arnett | sean.arnett@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Desiree Allen | desiree.allen@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Sean Arnett

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Desiree Allen

INTERNS

Jenna Brockman, Ariana Vinh

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Desiree Allen, Hannah Cole

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Shawna Sarnowski

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

city scene

1: Community members gathered on December 20, 2025, to celebrate an exciting milestone for local recreation! 2: The City of Temecula officially cut the ribbon on its new hockey rink and broke ground on a future skate park. 3: The event marked a continued investment in spaces that bring residents together and support active, outdoor lifestyles for all ages.

Photography by Shawna Sarnowski

Learn something new, or reconnect with an old passion. At the Fallbrook School of The Arts, you can unlock your creative side!

Schedule your class today!

business monthly

Baily's - Happy Hour

Reason to unwind: Baily’s offers Happy Hour Sunday–Thursday from 5–9 PM. Enjoy 50% off all appetizers, $5 well liquor, and $6 draft beers. Whether it’s a quick bite or a casual night out, Baily’s makes the weekdays a little more enjoyable.

ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN

REBEL Pink

IKEA’s 2026 Color of the Year

Neutral had its moment — now color is making a comeback. For 2026, one shade rising to the surface feels especially fresh: Rebel Pink

Bright, expressive, and unapologetically playful, Rebel Pink marks a clear shift away from the quiet neutrals and muted palettes that have dominated recent years. In their place, it invites optimism — a reminder that homes can hold creativity, emotion, and a little bit of fun.

According to IKEA, Rebel Pink is rooted in the idea of play — not just for children, but for everyone. The brand notes that play sparks happiness, evokes nostalgia, and encourages new ways of thinking. It’s a timely message as more homeowners rethink spaces that do double duty: rooms that support everyday routines while still reflecting personal style.

Unlike softer blush tones, Rebel Pink carries energy. It’s bold without being overwhelming, expressive without feeling childish. Used thoughtfully, it can warm a space, create a focal point, or bring personality to a room that’s starting to feel a little too predictable. The secret is grounding it with natural materials and calmer tones so the color feels elevated, not loud.

It’s also remarkably versatile. In small doses — a chair, a throw, artwork, a lamp, or a few well-placed accents — it adds lift and

individuality. Go bigger with a feature wall, cabinetry, or statement textiles, and it becomes the moment that anchors the room. Rebel Pink also plays well with unexpected companions: warm whites, soft grays, camel leather, light oak, brushed brass, matte black hardware, and even deep greens for contrast.

If you’re curious but cautious, start with removable wallpaper, pillows, or artwork and see how it changes the mood of the space throughout the day. In brighter rooms, it reads airy and cheerful; at night, especially under warm lighting, it can feel cozy and sophisticated. Paired with layered textures — linen, boucle, rattan, or stone — the look stays inviting and lived-in.

In Temecula, where many homes balance warmth, openness, and everyday livability, Rebel Pink feels right at home. It shines in light-filled spaces and pairs naturally with wood tones, stone, and neutral backdrops common in local design.

Whether layered into a living area, tucked into a bedroom, or used to brighten a smaller space, Rebel Pink adds character without overpowering. It’s a reminder that thoughtful design doesn’t have to take itself too seriously — sometimes the best rooms are the ones that make you smile.

Rebel Pink offers an invitation: play a little, trust your instincts, and create a home that feels as joyful as it is intentional.

Rebel Pink was named a 2026 Color of the Year by IKEA, reflecting a broader shift toward playful, expressive design.

Three Simple Touches

That Can Change a Room

ARTICLE BY HANNAH COLE

You don’t need a full renovation — or a blank check — to transform a space. Often, the biggest impact comes from a few thoughtful details. Whether you’re refreshing a room for a new season or simply craving something different, these small updates can make a noticeable difference.

1. Start with lighting

Lighting sets the tone. Swap harsh overheads for softer, layered sources — table lamps, floor lamps, or sconces — to add warmth and depth. Even a simple bulb change matters: warm light feels cozy, while cooler light reads crisp and energizing.

2. Introduce texture

Texture is what makes a room feel finished. Layer soft textiles with natural fibers, smooth ceramics, and warm wood tones for contrast and comfort. Try throw pillows, a new rug, woven baskets, or a textured accent — small additions that add visual richness without clutter.

3. Edit, then style with intention

Sometimes the best design move is removing what isn’t serving the space. Clearing surfaces lets your key pieces shine and gives the room breathing room. Then style what remains: group items in odd numbers, vary heights and shapes, and leave a little negative space. A few meaningful choices — art, books, or a favorite object — will always feel more elevated than an overfilled shelf.

Spring

Break,

ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN

Right at Home

Spring break doesn’t have to mean a suitcase — or kids disappearing into their phones and iPads all day. Some of the best memories are made close to home, with a little creativity and a change of routine.

From DIY movie nights to kid-created “gallery openings,” these ideas turn the ordinary into something unforgettable with a little intention, a few props, and a whole lot of creativity. Whether you’re wrangling little ones or negotiating with teens, there’s something here to help everyone reconnect — no plane ticket required.

DIY BACKYARD MOVIE NIGHT

Set the scene, pick the flick, and press play on an easy win.

There’s something undeniably magical about watching a movie under the stars — nostalgic, a little cinematic, and fun for every age. And it doesn’t take much: a blank sheet (or the side of the house), a projector, and a few cozy blankets can transform your yard — or even a driveway — into a neighborhood-worthy cinema.

QUICK SETUP IDEAS

• Lighting: String lights or lanterns for a warm glow and safer steps.

• Seating: Layer rugs, sleeping bags, bean bags, and pillows for a cozy, tiered vibe.

• Snack station: Popcorn bowls with add-ins like M&Ms, pretzels, or sprinkles.

• Theme it: Decades night or animated classics.

• Rain plan: Bring it inside and swap starlight for fairy lights on the ceiling. Pro tip: Teens love creative control. Let them run the projector, make invites, or handle sound. Ownership = engagement.

BAKE-OFF: FAMILY EDITION

A little friendly competition, a lot of sprinkles, and memories baked right in.

Turn your kitchen into a flour-dusted arena of fun, inspired by baking shows everyone loves. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s creativity, chaos, and connection.

HOW TO PLAY

• Pick a category: Cupcakes, cookies, brownies, or mug cakes (easy to decorate).

• Add a twist: “Must use a secret ingredient” (citrus, cereal, jelly beans)

• Create judges: Younger siblings or grandparents with simple scorecards (taste, creativity, presentation).

• Bring the drama: Timer soundtrack, filmed “final reveals,” and contestant intros.

Bonus round: Print quick certificates (“Most Creative Flavor Combo,” “Best Use of Frosting”) and host a mini awards ceremony — applause encouraged.

Stetson + 6666 Special Edition

AIRSTREAM

ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN

For many, the idea of home is evolving — less about a fixed address and more about a feeling you can take with you. The Airstream Stetson + 6666 Special Edition leans into that mindset: not as a replacement for home, but as a beautifully designed escape — the kind that makes a quick weekend feel like a real reset. This limited-edition collaboration brings together Airstream, Stetson, and the Four Sixes Ranch (6666 Ranch) a real working ranch many recognize from the popular series Yellowstone - three names with a shared devotion to craft, durability, and a strong sense of place, even when the scenery changes.

It arrives at a moment when travel is becoming less about checking boxes and more about settling in. The best getaways aren’t always the farthest; they’re the ones that let you exhale. And this space you travel with becomes part of the experience — the backdrop for slow mornings, easy meals, and that quiet hour when everyone finally puts their phone down.

ROOTED IN CRAFT AND CHARACTER

The inspiration behind the Stetson + 6666 Special Edition is tied to the spirit of the American West — not a stylized version, but the lived-in one. The kind defined by early mornings, long horizons, and the belief that what you carry should be built to last. That mindset is shared across all three names behind this collaboration.

Airstream has spent generations refining a singular idea: travel can be both adventurous and beautifully designed. Known for its unmistakable aluminum silhouette, the brand has long represented a certain kind of American freedom — the ability to point the hood toward somewhere new while still bringing comfort, craftsmanship, and intentional design along for the ride.

Stetson has always been more than a hat. It’s a symbol of identity and self-reliance — a piece made to be worn hard and kept for years, not replaced season to season. Its legacy is rooted in utility, yes, but also in character: the confidence of a well-made staple that looks better with time and tells a story the longer you own it.

And then there’s the Four Sixes Ranch (6666 Ranch) — an icon of working Western land, where longevity isn’t a marketing word, it’s a way of life. Built on generations of ranching tradition and stewardship, the Four Sixes represents discipline, durability, and deep respect for place. It’s a heritage measured in seasons, not trends.

Bring those legacies together, and the result feels less like a themed design moment and more like a shared philosophy: craft over flash, materials that wear in (not out), and details chosen with restraint. It’s Western influence at its best — not decorative, but foundational.

Those values show up immediately, both inside and out.

From the exterior, the classic Airstream silhouette remains instantly recognizable, while subtle Western accents — including a red beltline and a custom embroidered awning — signal its ranch-inspired roots without overplaying them. The look is clean and confident, designed to feel timeless against a wide-open landscape.

CONTINUED >

The Stetson + 6666 Special Edition redefines weekend escapes—and Airstream Inland Empire makes it feel within reach, pairing iconic design with the freedom to roam.

Airstream Inland Empire helps Southern California travelers bring home along—design-forward trailers built for comfort, craftsmanship, and the freedom of the open road.

The Western influence is understated, which is exactly why it works. Rather than relying on obvious motifs or heavy-handed “theme” elements, the design nods to heritage through materials, proportion, and finish choices. It’s more ranch house than rodeo — grounded, practical, and undeniably handsome.

THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED

Step inside, and the Stetson + 6666 Special Edition feels more like a compact, carefully designed studio than a traditional travel trailer. Warm leather seating invites you to settle in. A hammered copper sink adds texture and personality. Oil-rubbed bronze fixtures and natural materials bring depth and richness to the space.

Every element serves a purpose. Storage is integrated seamlessly. Surfaces are durable but refined. The palette stays warm and grounded, designed to feel comforting after a long day on the road — or a slow morning spent watching the light change outside the window. There’s a sense of calm to the layout, the kind you feel when everything has a place and nothing is trying too hard.

The interior also captures what good hospitality design does so well: it makes a small space feel generous. It’s not about squeezing in more; it’s about choosing better. The materials do the heavy lifting — leather, metal, and wood tones bringing a sense of richness without becoming fussy. And because the design is meant to be lived in, it avoids anything too precious. This is “beautiful, but use it” design.

Vintage artwork sourced from Stetson’s archives offers a quiet nod to Western history, while custom features — including thoughtful storage for hats and gear — reflect a design rooted in real life. This is a space built for people who value intention over excess.

BLURRING THE LINE BETWEEN INSIDE AND OUT

One of the most striking features is the rear hatch — a design element that opens the living space

directly to the outdoors. With the hatch raised and the screen in place, the interior feels connected to whatever landscape sits beyond it, whether that’s desert light, a mountain range, or a quiet campground tucked among the trees.

That indoor-outdoor connection is where the “vacation mode” really clicks. The hatch turns the space into a front-row seat for the moments you can’t schedule: coffee with the breeze moving through, a late lunch after a morning hike, a book within reach, dinner that stretches into dusk. It’s a reminder that some of the best “rooms” don’t have walls at all — and that the view is part of the design.

DESIGN

Good design isn’t defined by square footage. It’s defined by how a space makes you feel. Whether applied to a wine-country home, a weekend retreat, or a mobile dwelling, the principles hold — thoughtful materials, functional beauty, and rooms designed for real life.

The Western inspiration here isn’t a costume. It reflects respect for craftsmanship, durability, and environments built to stand the test of time — with patina that only makes them better.

LIFESTYLE

For Southern California, this kind of travel hits a sweet spot. Within a few hours you can trade routine for coastline, desert sky, or mountain air — without giving up comfort. The Stetson + 6666 Special Edition makes the case for a new kind of getaway: one where design matters, the pace is slower, and “home” feels less like a place you return to — and more like something you bring along.

And maybe that’s the point. In a season where many people are simplifying, choosing experience over excess, and redefining what “home” means, the Stetson + 6666 Special Edition offers a compelling blueprint: take what matters, leave what doesn’t, and build a space that supports the life you want to live — wherever the road leads next.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED

There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.

Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.

“Tackling each space and room as its own story and concept is how to make a new space feel personal,” Manz explains. “But bringing it all together cohesively is always the challenge.”

Her solution? Warmth, intention, and a strong belief in the power of people. In new builds it can take years for a home to shed its newness. For this project, the goal was to fast-track that sense of belonging by layering in pieces with history and heart. Vintage market finds, local artists, and meaningful objects play a starring role throughout the home.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”

That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.

ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME

The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.

Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.

THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED

The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.

“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”

A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.

POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT

If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.

LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH

Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.

Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.

At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life.”

PROJECT CREDITS

Just Getting Started

Celebrating two years of local storytelling as Temecula City Lifestyle enters its third publishing year

For the past two years, you’ve invited Temecula City Lifestyle into your homes, your businesses, and your lives — and that’s something we don’t take lightly.

This month marks a milestone for Temecula City Lifestyle : 24 issues and the start of our third year. If you’ve been reading along, sharing stories, or simply flipping through pages at your kitchen counter — this celebration is yours, too.

When Temecula City Lifestyle launched, it came with a simple hope: to celebrate this city in a way that felt genuine, thoughtful, and true to how life is really lived here. One thing is clear — this magazine isn’t about pages or issues. It’s about people. It’s about the pride you take in your homes, the way you support local businesses, and the connection that makes Temecula feel less like

a place you live and more like a place you belong.

We’ve had the privilege of sharing stories of growth and creativity, hard work and heart, and spaces thoughtfully designed. Every feature, every photo, every page exists because someone said yes and welcomed us in. That generosity is what gives this magazine its soul.

Home is built in the small things: the places we gather, the people we support, and the stories we share. Thank you for letting us be part of yours. We’re proud to keep showing up for Temecula — one issue at a time.

As we step into our third year of publication, we’re truly proud to call Temecula home.

Thank you for inviting us in. We can’t wait for what’s next.

Take charge of your financial future.

the BENEFITS OF PLANT-BASED EATING

ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA MARTIN AYOADE

BY

JANIE JONES

Most people think a plant-based diet is strictly for those vegan and vegetarian types, but there is no debating the overwhelming evidence showing the benefits of improved health for those who make that diet choice. Plant-based eating is more of a lifestyle than a diet. You are simply eating more foods that are closer to their harvested state with minimal processing.

Meatless diets have been shown to improve health outcomes by lowering the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation, and some cancers. It also improves gut health because of added fiber to your diet.

A plant-based diet still allows to you consume the carbohydrates, protein, fats, minerals and vitamins that are necessary for good health, with the added benefits of being higher in fiber and phytonutrients.

You do not have to give up meat entirely and there are labels to identify where you fall in your plant eating journey. Do what is comfortable for you so you will stick with it.

You can choose to be a flexitarian which mean you occasionally eat meat but you choose plants as the primary foods you eat. You have some flexibility with your diet. If you choose to be a vegetarian, then you do not eat meats but you still eat eggs and dairy products as opposed to being a vegan who eats no animal products.

There is also another reason to add more fruits and vegetables to your daily food intake; It is better for the environment. The industries that produce our dairy and meats is said to account for a third of the world’s water usage in addition to producing greenhouse gas emissions. Eat your greens and save the planet!

TIPS TO GET STARTED ON YOUR PLANT-BASED JOURNEY:

1. Make small changes to test your comfort level when reducing meat intake. There is a risk of being overwhelmed if you suddenly stop eating meat altogether, and it will be harder stick to your choice long term. Increase consumption of plant foods you already like.

2. A plant-based diet does not mean boring! You can create a variety of dishes, including ethnic meals that are meat free and delicious. This is a great time to try new spices to add a punch to your vegetables and add green leafy vegetables to your smoothies.

3. Use the whole plant because there are nutrients in every part of the plant, including the stems and leaves. Use the leaves from celery, radishes, beets and carrots and use the stems from spinach. Don’t throw away vital nutrients like potassium, vitamin C and fiber. You are also reducing waste.

4. Eat the rainbow! Choose different colored fruits and vegetables to get a variety of nutrients. The color of plant-based foods is often an indicator of the vitamins and minerals they contain. So, more colors mean more nutrients. Example: Orange foods contain beta carotene, the precursor for vitamin A.

5. If you do not eat animal products, you will need to take a B12 and possibly an iron supplement. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin available only in animal products. Low B12 can cause anemia and damage to the nervous system. Some vegan foods are fortified with vitamin B12.

6. A meat-free diet does not automatically mean healthy if you replace the meat with highly processed junk food and meat substitutes. You need to eat fresh quality fruits, vegetables and grains to get the health benefits that can add years to your life.

Claudia Martin-Ayoade, is a registered dietitian, writer and public speaker who is passionate about educating people on nutrition and addressing food insecurity. AgeSmartNutrition.com

MIXING HEALTH AND FLAVOR

A Delicious Mocktail to Savor Without the Alcohol.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

INGREDIENTS

ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP

• 1 cup cane sugar

• 1 cup water

• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

• 5 tablespoon pear juice

• 1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup

• 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice

• sparkling water to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP

Combine sugar and water in a pot and cook over medium heat. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and toss in rosemary sprigs. Cool Completely.

HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

Pour pear juice, rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water. Add ice and garnish if desired.

CAPTURING LIFE’S GREATEST ADVENTURES

Lifestyle photography for the Temecula Valley and Beyond! Let us capture the special moments in your family’s life! The big game, that special performance or a day at the beach. We’ll capture your Star’s Big Moment!

SHAWNASARNOWSKIPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Don’t choose between print or digital.

WHAT’S IN YOUR CART?

HEALTHY AND AFFORDABLE MEAL PREP FOR YOUR LIFE!

If you find yourself skipping meals because you don’t have time, or if you believe eating healthy is unaffordable, fear not and read on! As a dietitian, I can tell you that eating healthy is easier than you think if you follow these tips:

ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA MARTIN-AYOADE, MBA, MS, RD, LD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

TIP #1

YOU CAN STILL HAVE A VARIETY OF HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS FOODS BY PLANNING AND PREPPING YOUR MEALS FOR THE WEEK.

• Preparing whole meals or dishes ahead of time saves a lot of time for busy people.

• Ingredients required for specific meals can be prepped ahead of time to reduce total cooking time in the kitchen.

• Having pre-prepared meals on hand can also reduce portion size and help you reach your nutrition and wellness goals.

• Choose microwave and freezer safe containers for proper storage, including BPA-free plastic, flexible silicone or glassware containers.

TIP #2

CHOOSE INGREDIENTS THAT ARE VERSATILE AND CAN BE USED IN MULTIPLE MEALS TO REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY.

• Example: Choose familiar recipes for tacos, chili or spaghetti in the same week to use all your ground beef or turkey. I brown the ground beef and portion it in freezer bags flattened out for space saving freezing and time-saving cooking.

• Pre-cut vegetables can be used for fresh ready-to-eat meals that do not require cooking, like salads and sandwiches or as part of a cooked recipe. Include leftovers in meal planning.

• I also cut up ripe fresh fruits and freeze them to use in smoothies instead of throwing them out.

• Frozen fruits and vegetables often cost less and last longer than fresh ones. They retain high-quality nutrients because they are frozen immediately after being harvested.

• Most frozen vegetables have no additives and preservatives, but some may contain added seasonings, salt, sugar or sauces. Avoid added ingredients by paying attention to the label and ingredient list.

TIP #3

MAKE A GROCERY LIST BEFORE YOU GO SHOPPING.

• A list helps limit distractions, keep you on budget, restricts unhealthy impulse purchases and reduces multiple trips for forgotten items.

• Buy kitchen staples to have on hand to make quick simple meals like canned tomatoes, tuna fish or salmon, corn, your favorite beans and grains such as rice, quinoa, barley, farro and whole grain pasta.

• Plan your menus based on grocery store sales and produce that are in season and add beans for plantbased protein.

• Buy extra staples when they are on sale, and don’t overlook the bulk bins to buy just the amount you need.

• Buy pre-prepped items in the grocery store to further save time or use the salad bar for small servings.

TIP #4

TRY NOT TO GROCERY SHOP WHEN YOU ARE HUNGRY.

• Everything looks delicious when you are hungry, and this could lead to unnecessary and unhealthy food purchases.

• The additional calories may not be needed, and food could be wasted if not eaten.

TIP #5

HEALTHY SNACKS ARE POSSIBLE.

The total amount of snacks you prepare will depend on the required number of snacks planned daily, based on your health and wellness goals.

MY SNACKS OF CHOICE INCLUDE:

• Nut butters with crackers or pretzels

• Fresh fruit (whole or pre-cut)

• Sliced vegetables

• String cheese, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, hummus

• Home-made trail mix with dried fruit, unsalted nuts and seeds, to limit sugar and sodium intake

Portioning snacks during your overall meal prep prevents mindless snacking without knowing how much you are actually eating.

Claudia Martin-Ayoade, MBA, MS, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian/nutritionist at agesmartnutrition.com

MARCH 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 1ST 5K Wine Run

39730 Calle Contento | 9:00 AM

Run, walk, and sip your way through wine country at the 5K Wine Run at Akash Winery. This scenic vineyard course welcomes all paces. Registration includes a race shirt and a finisher medal that doubles as a wine stopper. Learn more and register at runsignup.com/ Race/CA/Temecula/AkashWineRunK

MARCH 14TH

2026 SAFE Futures Celebration Casino Night

Monteleone Meadows 3545 Briggs Rd, Murrieta | 5:30 PM

Join us for an evening of hope, resilience, and community. Support SAFE Family Justice Center at our annual SAFE Futures Celebration—where stories are shared, futures are honored, and lives are changed. Enjoy an inspiring evening filled with purpose, connection, and the power of collective compassion. Tickets & sponsorships available now: safefjc.ejoinme. org/2026SAFEFuturesCelebration Together, we’re creating a future free from violence—and full of possibility.

MARCH 14TH

Speakeasy at the Merc

The Merc - 42051 Main St. | 7:00 PM

Step back in time with live Traditional Jazz of the 1920s–1940s at Speakeasy at The Merc. Held every second Saturday of the month at 7:00 PM, the evening features the house band, Second Hand Jazz, alongside rotating Southern California traditional jazz artists. Tickets are $22 general admission and $18 for seniors (65+), students, and military. For details, call 1-866-653-8696.

ONE NIGHT. THREE EXPERIENCES.

Enjoy three distinct destinations that come together to create one seamless night out. Arrive for dinner at Archive, Temecula’s newest elevated dining experience serving steak, and seafood. Hide away for cocktails and conversation at Thompson & Twain speakeasy, then follow the music to Crush & Brew and dance the night away - all connected, all without ever moving your car.