beachstring

In the name of Love

2012-02-08T16:23:00.000-08:00

Driftwood Christmas Trees & Seashell Garland

2011-11-17T17:41:00.000-08:00

Tis' the Season.... to start creating! And if you live near the ocean or have a seashell collection... then gather up all your ocean materials & driftwood because the Holidays are here! Here are some fun creations to make while you get into the spirit. Enjoy and good luck!

Santa Cruz Sea Glass Festival 2011

2011-11-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

Join Beachstring THIS WEEKEND at the Santa Cruz Sea Glass Festival on the Boardwalk! This event is a rare treasure chest for anyone who loves Sea Glass & Ocean Art!

Featuring (what else)... SEA GLASS! Beachstring is STOKED to take part in this event! Tony & Krista Hammond of Santa Cruz Sea Glass are incredibly skilled artists and do a great job at organizing the entire production. Not to mention it is a really fun time! Thank you guys!

Look for Beachstring as we have many new items to share with you this year! Thank you for your love and support! MAHALO & HAPPY HOLIDAYS! (yes, they're here!)

Hope to see you there!

KELLY SLATER VISITS PACIFICA, CA!

2011-11-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't you know it?! Last week it was Gerard Butler and this week PACIFICA, CA gets a visit from Pro Surfer... KELLY SLATER! Rumor has it Kelly's staying in Pacifica during the RIP CURL PRO SEARCH (somewhere in San Francisco) Surf Contest - which explains why we've spotted his GORGEOUS face all around town.

Enjoy the following photos taken by my friend (and great photographer) Glen Hogerton. Thanks for Sharing Glen! AND CONGRATULATIONS KELLY! PACIFICA LOVES YOU (and Kalani too)!

Photos taken at Ocean Beach in San Francisco, CA

SEA BOWL PACIFICA WELCOMES KING SLATER!

Can Kelly pull off a STRIKE on the same day he pulled of his 11TH CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE?! If not, we don't care!! We still love you Ke11y!

Enjoying the victory with friends!

GERARD BUTLER VISITS PACIFICA!!!

2011-10-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true... It's TRUE! Gerard Butler is shooting scenes for his upcoming film (Of Men and Mavericks) in my home town of Pacifica, CA. This may not be big news for those living in LA, but for us little folk on the SF Coast - It's the most exciting thing that's happened in a while (earthquakes included)! Welcome to Pacifica Gerard, Cast & Crew!!! We hope you enjoy your stay and welcome you back any time!

Gerard Butler plays Rick "FROSTY" Henson in Of Men and Mavericks Movie

2011-10-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

How exciting... Gerard Butler has been seen on local beaches and dines at local establishments! Pretty exciting stuff for a town this size! The break known as MAVERICK'S is located half a mile off the coast of Pillar Point in Half Moon Bay, California - Right next door to Pacifica, California (my hometown!). Filming has begun and this little city is finally getting in on some of the action.
Of Men and Maverick's (tentative name) is a surf movie that will tell the real life story of Jay Moriarty, the Santa Cruz surfing icon that tragically passed away in a diving accident, when he was only 22 years old. HOT Gerard Butler will play the role of surfer Rick "Frosty" Henson, Moriarity’s mentor while adorable JONNY WESTON lands the lead role of Jay himself! The surf movie will be directed Curtis Hanson, the man behind "L.A. Confidential" and "8 Mile".

"Mavericks" is the ultimate surfing biopic. Jay Moriarty was a great surfer and had a short but still fulfilled life by the sea and riding waves. Today, he is remembered every year when the big wave surf contest "The Jay at Mavericks" kicks off at Half Moon Bay. We are keeping posted on the movies progress and will be sure to post any new sitings or updates of Gerard, Jonny and the rest of the Crew while here in PTown!

Heidi Klum and Patch Launch Halloween Costume Contest for Kids

2011-10-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Which kid in America has the most creative Halloween costume in the pumpkin patch? That's what we intend to find out with your photos and the help of celebrity judge Heidi Klum, who will select the Grand Prize winner.

The Grand Prize? Patch will whisk the winner to New York or Los Angeles for a three day, two night trip for two that includes a meet and greet with Heidi, plus a donation of $1,031 to a local charity of the winner's choice. Nine runners up will also get a $1,031 donation from Patch to a local charity of their choice.

Entering is easy. Just upload a photo of your kid, 12 years of age or younger, in his or her Halloween costume. Entries must be made by the parent or legal guardian of the child photographed. Full rules are here: http://www.patch.com/info_page/patchs-little-pumpkin-costume-challenge-with-heidi-klum

Submissions must be received before 9 p.m. (local time) on Halloween night (Oct. 31st).

Good luck and be sure to support Heidi Klum’s efforts to feed the hungry. Visit Trick or Treat for UNICEF. Find more of Heidi’s Halloween favorites at heidiklum.aol.com.

Check out Heidi's Video on Pacifica Patch: http://pacifica.patch.com/articles/your-photos-could-make-your-kid-a-halloween-star-2a44b16c#video-8179035

Pacifica is Inspiration

2011-08-23T16:17:00.000-07:00

Inspiration.... such an important element when it comes to creating. As an artist, it's not hard to find inspiration when you live where I do. My wonderful, little, coastal community is tucked away south of San Francisco. Built on rolling hills and amazing views of the ocean, we're a tight knit community that has captured the hearts of many. When it comes to inspiration, Pacifica, California is a perfect town to find it. It's my hidden Shangri-La when the sun is shining! Shhh... don't tell anyone.

Outdoor Patrotic Crab Pillow

2011-06-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

Check out this Awesome Patriotic Crab Pillow!

A new found love! This pillow speaks for who I am! New to US Marine Corp family, Im having so much fun finding ways to incorporate my support for our Troops (and our Country) along with my love for the ocean!

Waa Laaaaa.... So glad to have found you fun pillow... I'll take two!

Check it out at Caron's Beach House

Blue Sway | Paul McCartney

2011-06-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

American Patrism

2011-05-02T21:36:00.000-07:00

In honor of our men and woman out there fighting for our freedom... I dedicate this post to you! A special thanks to my wonderful son, who is a dedicated US MARINE!

God Bless America, land that I love.

DRIFTWOOD ART

2011-04-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

Trying to get inspired... I couldn't resist sharing these amazing photos of DRIFTWOOD ART.

Simply amazing and oh so inspiring too!

BE PREPARED for a major earthquake or disaster!

2011-03-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

What is the chance you or your family will be involved in a major quake? Are you prepared to survive until help arrives? Here are some simple steps you can take to prepare your family for a major quake disaster.

Educate your family about earthquakes. Take shelter in a doorway or under a sturdy object if indoors. Never run outdoors if you are inside. If outside, stay away from power lines and buildings where objects could fall. Consider having an out of state relative serving as the contact since most interstate lines may be hard to reach. Teach family members how to turn off gas lines or electrical power that may need to be shut off after a quake if severe damage occurs.
Develop a plan! Where will your family meet in the event of a disaster? What if some people are at work or school??? How will you know they are safe? Where will you all meet up?
Pack a preparedness kit and keep it in a safe location. If it's for a fire in case your house burns down you wouldn't store it in your house would you? In the event of a major earthquake you are most likely not going to be able to get back into your house. Keep supplies in your car trunk or an outside storage shed that is smaller. If you MUST store the preparedness kit in your home, do not store it on the bottom level since that will most like be the level that will be buried if your house collapses. Maintain your supplies. Make sure batteries are fresh and medicines are exchanged when they expire.
If you live in an area where quakes are likely you may want to take added measures such as securing furniture that could move around or making repairs to your home that could make it weak in a quake.

Earthquake Prediction 2011 Jim Berkland - A Major Earthquake in North America Imminent

2011-03-18T16:18:00.000-07:00

Traditional Irish Recipe: Corned Beef & Cabbage!

2011-03-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

What's more Irish than a traditional recipe for corned beef and cabbage? Thought this would be a great recipe to pass on for tomorrow's Holiday! Serve with mustard or horseradish if desired.

Ingredients

3 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet
10 small red potatoes
5 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces
1 large head cabbage, cut into small wedges

Directions

Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender.
Add whole potatoes and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove meat and let rest 15 minutes.
Place vegetables in a bowl and cover. Add as much broth (cooking liquid reserved in the Dutch oven or large pot) as you want. Slice meat across the grain.

Recipe courtesy of All Recipes.com: http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/corned-beef-and-cabbage-i/Detail.aspx

Beachstring's new HANG OUT!

2011-03-15T18:53:00.000-07:00

Next time you visit Capitola, California be sure to stop by

Village Sea Glass

201 Monterey Ave. #A
Capitola, Ca 95010
(831)464-3005

Beachstring is thrilled to announce that we're now hanging in this quaint little boutique located in the heart of the Monterey Bay! Village Sea Glass is a specialty gift shop featuring local art. It's main showcase is genuine sea glass pieces that have been created into beautiful jewelry and home decor. We couldn't be more excited or more honored to be hanging in this fantastic store. Thank you Polly & Patty for welcoming BeachString!

Brad Womack... You're NOT a Douche!

2011-03-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

I officially take back your dubbed title, "THE DOUCHE" Brad Womack! Ya done good son!

Thank goodness for untrustworthy spoilers! Last nights finale had me on my toes for the first 5 minutes but it was pretty clear thereafter that "Em" was his girl! YAYYYYY EM! From beginning to end, Emily captured our hearts and never once pretended to be someone she wasn't. Brad seems to truly love this woman. I was a little worried when Brad nearly passed out after Emily confronted him with the reality of parenthood. I thought the guy was gonna drop to the floor and pretend to never wake up (which would have been more like Brad's "I'm afraid to commit" character), but not this season! He did it! Thankfully, my wish came true and Brad Womack proposed to Miss Emily Maynard.

What I wasn't expecting was a "not so sure" Emily at the, After the Final Rose, show. I was surprised to see my sweet little Em let her insecurities get the best of her. But really, how would I feel watching the man I love take another woman to his Fantasy Suite if he knew all along that I was the one? Eh, hum.... (the old me would have said DOUCHE here). I agree with you, Em! Any girl would! Including you, Chantel O! However, as we ALL KNOW... Brad has gone through extensive therapy and is a rebuilt man because of it! His therapist encouraged him to follow his libido, err... I meant "heart" and so we should blame the other guy for telling Brad that it was okay to do this!

In the end... Emily still says, "YES" as Brad slips on a re-sized, beautiful Neil Lane engagement ring and so a new beginning starts! I'm excited for little Ricky! I truly hope that Brad is ready to be the wonderful daddy little Ricky deserves! Even more so... I am hoping for an everlasting relationship with many years to come! Time has proven that most Bachelor couples don't last and so I hold on to my Reality TV Faith that Brad & Em will be hanging out with Trista & Ryan 5 years down the road! Cheers to a happy ending!

Tsunami spares most of San Francisco Bay Area

2011-03-11T15:10:00.000-08:00

The Bay Area largely dodged the tsunami bullet, with tidal waves from Japan's epic earthquake doing the most damage north and south of the region.
Local transit services were running on normal schedules and regional officials reported little damage from waves that raced 7,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean within hours of the huge earthquake that hit Japan on Thursday night. They started hitting the coast about 8 a.m.
Other places in California were not so lucky. Crescent City near the Oregon border, a town nearly destroyed by a tsunami following a 1964 earthquake in Alaska, again suffered extensive damage. Its harbor was reportedly destroyed, with many boats sunk or cast out to sea by 8-foot waves.
Also near the state border, four people who went out to the coast to photograph the oncoming tsunami waves were washed into the sea by them. One remained missing and was presumed dead.
In Santa Cruz, south of San Francisco, waves damaged boats and docks.
Officials, meanwhile, cautioned that the Bay Area was not yet fully out of danger. Tsunami waves can continue for up to 12 hours and the first are sometimes not the largest. With higher tides this evening than when the waves hit this morning, officials are keeping a watchful eye on the sea. A tsunami warning from the National Weather Service remains in effect.
“We are exercising extreme caution,” BART said this morning. “The situation could change quickly and we will update you as soon as possible if anything changes.”
Waves higher than 10 feet would "almost certainly stop service between West Oakland and Daly City Stations,” BART said. BART’s tunnel between Oakland and San Francisco runs along the bay floor, meaning it could be affected by powerful wave activity.
The Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District, which runs ferry service on the bay, also said it will operate regular schedules.
In San Francisco, police closed the Great Highway as well as Baker Beach, China Beach, Ocean Beach and Fort Funston. It was not clear when that roadway and the beaches would be reopened.

Article courtesy of: http://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2011/03/11/tsunami-japan-earthquake-bay-area.html

TSUNAMI WARNING: Stay away from the beach!

2011-03-11T12:30:00.000-08:00

Despite warnings to get off the beach there are still people heading to the coast! One person was seen walking their dog and enjoying the huge waves that were crashing along our pier. This is not recommended since we are not sure how big those waves are going to get. West coast tsunami warnings were issued early this morning for the California coast.
Tsunami sirens went off (in Pacifica, CA) at 5:00 AM and residents received phone calls to move further inland or head to higher ground. Pacifica School Districts closed all schools to take extra precautions. Most of the residents are complying with the warnings and the Coast Guard is monitoring all areas along our coastline. The 8.9 earthquake that devastated Japan is causing disaster all over the world. Make sure that you stay away from the coast if at all possible. This is to be taken serious.

The Bachelor - Women tell all!

2011-03-08T08:51:00.000-08:00

Oh yes they did! This episode was vicious & catty right from the start! Almost all girls came out kicking & scratching (and they wonder why they didn't find love?!). They immediately put two-faced Michelle in the hot seat, spending way too much time discussing her intentions and mothering skills. I loved how Jackie bit her tongue after Chris Harrison called her out on being ugly, err... I meant jealous. Then Ashly H. comes to Michelle's defense making herself look like a shining star. I wonder if Ashly's new & improved look has anything to do with the next season of Bachelorette? Bets anyone?! I must admit, I truly enjoyed the first hour of Michelle drama. I mean, who better than Michelle to make the night all about her?! She always seems to put a smile on my face. Whether it be out of spite or just pure entertainment... Michelle is one of those girls who finds a way to steal the stage... She's officially become "the girl we love to hate!"
Then out comes the douche... err, I meant Brad. Oh, and btw Brad... if you DON'T pick Emily next week... "The Douche" nickname stays for good! So out comes Brad looking slick as ever. We immediately find Brad trying to sit comfortable knowing he's about to get ambushed by a bunch of rejected woman (who act like hormonal teens). Brad flashes back on Ashly S with an apology for saying she wouldn't make an extraordinary wife for HIM. Bite your tongue Brad Womack, didn't you realize that when she first spoke? The girl just reached puberty. HELLO. Yah, she'd make a great wife for my 20 year old son but not a successful therapy patient like you! He quickly moves onto some of the other girls who he enjoyed making out with like vampire Madison, bulimic Britt, regretful Ashly H and cry baby Michelle. What I want to know is why didn't they talk to Shawntel the mortician? They must seriously be afraid of her wicked embalming tools! After that... ABC moves on to showing us a softer side of Brad (& Chris) by stealing our hearts with their contributions to the Henna School. I loved that both men are humanitarians (if only for this one episode). Brad showed sincere interest in these adorable little kids and was very affectionate to many. I think this might be our clue as to who he chooses. I believe we're looking at little Ricky Bobby's new daddy!

As the night quickly ends , we see a doting Brad give a shout out (and almost shed a tear) to his unknown "babe". Who could it be? He claims he's in love and I believe him. There's a small sparkle in his eye that we haven't really seen before.. I still say it's Emily! Especially after they recap on previous clips of his connection with the final two woman. Did anyone notice that Chantel's clips were dreary & blah ending with Brad saying he could very well see Chantel being his wife. Emily's clips on the other hand were passionate and loving with Brad saying... "I WANT EMILY TO BE MY WIFE". Is there really any question here people (other than next weeks preview which are trying to throw us off)? I guess I should be asking myself this question since I'm the one who keeps going back and forth as to who Brad will chose?! Until next week....

Mendocino Whale Festival

2011-03-02T22:13:00.000-08:00

March 5 & 6, 2011

MENDOCINO, Calif. — Wine tasting and whale watching will be the featured attractions of the 29th Annual Mendocino Whale Festival March 5th and 6th in Mendocino.

Many wineries will set up tasting stations in inns, galleries and shops throughout Mendocino Village and Little River, while the area’s top chefs produce their favorite seafood chowders in a tasting event. A marine mammal art exhibit, plein-air (live outdoor painting demonstrations) and docent-led walks are all part of the two-day festival.

With some 20,000 gray whales migrating north from birthing grounds in Mexico to their winter home in Alaska, there will be plenty of whales to view from the Mendocino Headlands State Park, which surrounds Mendocino Village.

Major events include:

Wine Tasting in Mendocino’s shops-Saturday only 12-4pm, $30. Register at Welcome Centers: Crown Hall-Main St, the Ford House-Main St. Event brochures, t-shirts and totes available. 21 & over only
Participants:
Barra of Mendocino - Claudia Springs Winery - Esterlina Vineyards - Graziano Family of Wines - Handley Cellars - Husch Vineyards - Jeriko Estate Winery - McNab Ridge Winery - Meyer Family Cellars - Navarro Vineyards - Philo Ridge Vineyards - Simaine Cellars - Weibel Winery
Chowder Tasting in Crown Hall, Saturday from 11am-till the chowder runs out, $10 allows you to taste each participant. Crown Hall located at 45285 Ukiah St., Mendocino. T-shirts and totes available during event. Music by Jamie Peters & Hugh Connolly
Whale Watching walks on the headlands and Gray Whale Exhibit at the Ford House Visitor’s Center, Saturday and Sunday. Call 937-5397 for more information and hours Ford House Visitor Center located on ocean side of Main Street, Mendocino.
Plein-air Artists in the Village Weather permitting! See local artists painting on the Mendocino Headlands, Saturday
Marine Wildlife Exhibit at the Mendocino Art Center, 10-4pm, Little Lake St., Mendocino. Call 937-5818
Whale Watching Cruises from Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg all day both Saturday and Sunday, call Chamber of Commerce for charter boat referrals, 707-961-6300 between 9-5 on weekdays, 9-3 on Saturday
Whale Watching by Horseback, call Chamber of Commerce for referrals, 707-961-6300 between 9-5 on weekdays, 9-3 on Saturday.

To learn more go to: http://www.mendowhale.com/

Crab Cakes it is!

2011-03-01T19:58:00.000-08:00

This Crab Cake Recipe received a FIVE STAR rating on Food Network .com. The photo alone makes me drool! I'll dedicate today's recipe to all those dungenous crabs out there in the Pacific Ocean who are just waiting to be made into cakes!

Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 18 min
Serves: 4 to 6

Ingredients

1 pound fresh crab meat, picked free of shells
1/3 cup crushed crackers (recommended: Ritz)
3 green onions (green and white parts), finely chopped
1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 egg
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sause
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 lemon, juiced
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
Dash cayenne pepper
Flour, for dusting
1/2 cup peanut oil
Favorite dipping sauce, for serving

Directions

In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients, except for the flour and peanut oil. Shape into patties and dust with flour.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When oil is hot, carefully place crab cakes, in batches, in pan and fry until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Carefully flip crab cakes and fry on other side until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Serve warm with preferred sauce.

Recipe courtesy of Paula Deen at: www.foodnetwork.com

REDUCE your plastic footprint:

2011-03-01T19:34:00.000-08:00

Here are three easy steps to reduce your plastic footprint:

REDUCE - When possible, buy your food and other products in bulk to reduce the amount of packaging.

REUSE - Cut down on single-use plastic grocery bags and water bottles by using reusable bags and containers.

RECYCLE - Make sure and recycle each and every plastic item you use!

For more information on how to reduce the impact of plastics in our marine environments, go to: www.riseaboveplastics.org

Here comes the STORM!

2011-02-25T10:57:00.000-08:00

These photos are dedicated to all those residents living in Pacifica, CA. These are Storm Photos (from previous years) reminding us of what may come this weekend! So grab your rain gear (possibly your snow gear too) and bundle up! It's gonna be a stormy one!

COOL CRAFT: Ocean Flower Pot

2011-02-24T14:19:00.000-08:00

Scour the shore at low tide, or dig out your old seashell collection to put those finds to good use. This seashell craft is a fun way to dress up a boring clay pot. It's not only beachy, but it's useful too. I like to leave the body of the pot plain but I've seen many people add a weathered look (paint) too! A really fun craft to dress up your beach bungalow!

Materials

Terra cotta pot (any size you want)

Assorted seashells (assorted shapes and sizes)

Glue: glue gun and sticks or tacky craft glue
Powdered Milk Paint (available in craft stores if you want a weathered look on the bottom of your pot).
Lime powder (find at garden centers to finish off your weathered look).
Paintbrush
Medium grip sandpaper

Directions

You first need to decide if you want to weather your pot. If so, that will be your first step. If not, move onto step #2.

To weather a pot, combine 1 part powdered milk paint with 1 part water. Apply to pot with a paintbrush. Let dry 1 hour. Combine 1 part lime powder with 2 parts water; brush on over paint. Let dry 1 hour. Sand the pot with medium-grit sandpaper until desired look is achieved.
Lay out a pattern of shells that are uniform in size and appearance and glue them onto the rim of the pot with your hot glue gun or tacky glue. Allow the glue to dry before you begin planting in your new ocean flower pot.