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The Bledsoe Firm JustFamilyLaw.com | 949.363.5551 JULY | 2024
RECLAIMING YOUR STORY
FROM HEARTBREAK TO HEALING
In 2020, over 120,000 divorces were filed in the state of California. That means each year hundreds of thousands of Californians must grapple with the end of their marriage and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. That means you are not alone; that mix of emotions you are experiencing right now is also being felt by many others like you. There are divorce support groups, both for those going through, or thinking of filing for, a divorce. It is often less expensive, and more personable, than therapy, and can help you make new connections and receive candid feedback on your situation. If you are looking for a path forward but feeling lost, then a divorce support group may help you find your way.
support groups are no exception. Websites like Circles, Women’s Divorce, and Men’s Divorce provide affordable support to divorcees in need. If your schedule does not permit you to attend an in-person support group, then an online group is a valid alternative. They are also scientifically proven to be helpful for you! According to research published in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, digital support programs have the potential to improve the mental and physical well-being of divorcees.
PROVEN HELP Extensive research has been done on the
effectiveness of divorce support groups, and the conclusions are resoundingly positive. According to research published in the Journal of Divorce & Remarriage, divorce support groups increase participants’ well-being while decreasing their depression. A support group is where you can hear the stories of others going through their divorce, and give a voice to your feelings, experiences, and concerns as well. While family and friends may hear you out, you can rely on your group members to shoot you straight: They are more likely to give you the advice you need to hear, rather than what they think you want to hear. Best of all? These support groups are far more affordable and readily available than one-on-one therapy, with the added benefit of being held in an engaging social environment. ONLINE OPTION In the digital age, there are always online alternatives to traditional in-person counseling, and divorce
MOVING FORWARD No matter your gender, beliefs, or sexual orientation, there are divorce support groups for you. Moreover, these groups are often led by
mental health professionals, and, in addition to allowing group members a safe place to share their stories, also help provide useful information and advice to make this stage of your life more manageable. While divorce is an event that brings on a great deal of emotion, and change, in your life, it is also the beginning of a new chapter. As you turn the page into a new stage of your life, marking the transition from married to single, unhappy to hopeful, and trapped to free, divorce support groups are there for you. Whether in-person or online, there is help out there to meet your needs. —John Bledsoe
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INJURY-FREE RUNNING FARMS TO FORTUNES THE RICH HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY
Originally, rivers clearly marked the borders of Orange County; now, those are buried beneath concrete, and it is difficult to tell that the county’s 34 incorporated cities are built upon the floodplain of the Santa Ana River. But it is not only the county’s borders that have been built over, but also its rich history, which we will discuss here. PRE-AMERICAN HISTORY The history of Orange County predates the history of our country; back in 1769, the Spanish laid claim to what we know as California, a vast land inhabited by American Indian tribes. However, the Spaniards did very little with the land, only ceding sparse acres to select military leaders, with the rest of the territory being the personal property of the king of Spain. While the Spanish crown may have neglected the land’s potential, their successors would not.
When Mexico — formerly the Viceroyalty of New Spain — became independent from the Kingdom of Spain in 1821, they also inherited the territory that makes up modern-day California. The Mexican government soon granted over 40,000 acres to their populace for them to cultivate and colonize. By 1846, the entirety of what is now Orange County was made up of ranches and farms, with ranching being the mainstay of the local economy. MEXICAN-AMERICAN WAR In 1846, a small group of Americans sauntered into California, still a Mexican territory, with the intent of seizing the town of Sonoma. However, events unfolded differently than they had expected: Instead of a brutal fight, they had a peaceful discussion. The Americans met with Col. Mariano Vallejo of the Mexican Army, and, after
sharing drinks together, the officer surrendered the land to them. Thus, the California Republic, an independent nation, was born. Just two years later, California was ceded to the U.S. following the end of the Mexican-American War. In 1849, the California Gold Rush caused an influx of settlers to the newly annexed territory. In what is now Orange County, new irrigation systems, oranges, walnuts, and apricots began to be grown in large quantities in the 1870s. This led to an economic boom and resulted in the establishment of Orange County in 1889. In the century that followed, agriculture gave way to new industries and renewed prosperity. In 1912, Orange County had a population of just 45,000; today, the county has a population of over 3.1 million, a testament to its tremendous growth and people.
Grill and Chill Host a Summer Barbecue for Everyone
Enjoying your own party can be more complicated than it sounds. Backyard barbecues are a high point of summer, but hosting one you enjoy with your guests requires planning. “If swimming is on the agenda, consider protecting new or light-colored indoor furniture with water-resistant covers so guests in wet swimsuits can sit wherever they want without stressing out their host,” says Calla Quinn, a TikTok influencer who recently posted tips on hosting up to 50 friends at your home. Another tip she shares is using portable misting fans in dry climates. These devices create a fine mist to refresh passersby in seconds, and they are especially popular on patios and decks. If attendees offer to bring something, don’t hesitate to accept, and be specific about what you want — from lawn chairs to beach towels. Martha Stewart recommends having a stain
remover on hand to manage stains and cloth towels that guests can use to wipe up spills.
Expert hosts also recommend a self-serve bar for casual summer gatherings. Consider filling several 3-gallon drink dispensers with popular options. Depending on your guest list, you might offer family fare such as lemonade, iced tea, ice water, or premixed cocktails like strawberry vodka lemonade or passion fruit margaritas. Martha Stewart suggests allowing amateur mixologists to concoct their own beverages by setting out bottled juices, artisanal sodas, and kombucha. A stylish yet simple way to serve hors d’oeuvres and side dishes to complement your grilled entree is to assemble or have catered a charcuterie board. These feature finger foods such as meats, cheeses, olives, spreads, fruits, nuts, chips, and crackers. A fully stocked charcuterie board adds a decorative touch while
keeping guests well-fed for hours, adding what Quinn calls “a real wow factor.”
And to make sure your day ends well, look for disposable, compostable bamboo or wooden dishes. Searching for “eco-friendly tableware and cutlery” should turn up some good options. This one last detail can go a long way toward supporting sustainable living while ensuring you don’t spend any valuable party time cleaning up broken glass or washing dishes.
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W ord S earch
Ripe for Adventure
Alien Ballpark Cherry Firecracker Flag Independence Orchid Paddleboard Patriotic Sundae Sunscreen Trampoline
EXPLORING ORANGE COUNTY’S MUST-SEE SITES While not many people think to explore their own backyard, when that backyard is Orange County, it is well worth it. From relics of our colonial past to piers with peerless views, there are plenty of reasons to be excited about rediscovering all that Orange County has to offer. Here are four must-see sites you should seek out this summer. MISSION OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Founded more than two centuries ago, the Mission of San Juan Capistrano was the local religious, educational, and agricultural hub in what is now Orange County, before there was an Orange County. Originally constructed by and within the Spanish Empire, the mission existed under the rule and administration of Mexico, the Republic of California, and now the United States. Today, it is a beautiful reminder of the history of our county and the many peoples and cultures whose stories converged here. SAN CLEMENTE PIERS This historic pier has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 1928. It is an ideal spot for fishing, surfing, swimming, or leisurely walks along the beach. It is also flanked by great restaurants and shops, so a detour can help satisfy your shopping and dining needs! DANA POINT HARBOR Orange County is known for its world-class beaches and pristine waters. Taking advantage of our seaward neighbors, you can set sail from iconic Dana Point Harbor and enjoy a day on the surf while whale and dolphin watching along with a trained and knowledgeable guide. TEMECULA VALLEY While Napa Valley may get more recognition, there are around 50 wineries in Orange County’s Temecula Valley that produce an array of award-winning vintages. Take a leisurely, romantic trip to the wineries of Southern California, and enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyards and facilities, and an excursion you will not soon forget!
Instant Pot Beef Stew
Savor the flavor with this hearty meal that’s both quick and easy.
INGREDIENTS •
2 tbsp olive oil
•
1 14-oz can diced tomatoes 2 tbsp tomato paste 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• • • • • • •
2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
• •
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
• • •
1 tsp dried thyme
2 stalks celery, diced 2 potatoes, diced 2 cups beef broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS 1. Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat olive oil. 2. Add beef and cook until browned, then add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes. 3. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. 4. Secure the lid and set the pressure cook feature to high for 30 minutes. 5. When the stew is done cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure. Serve and enjoy!
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Inside
Divorcees Guided Toward Happiness
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Uprooting the Story of Orange County Tips for a Stress-Free Backyard Barbecue
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Essential Destinations in Orange County
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Instant Pot Beef Stew
How Infrared Heat Can Amplify Your Workout Results
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Why A-Listers Are Ditching Traditional Gyms for Infrared Saunas SWEAT SMARTER, NOT HARDER
Do you want to heat up your exercise routines for superstar results? Those in the know, like Lady Gaga and Gwyneth Paltrow, have been bringing their workouts into infrared saunas and gyms to help melt away toxins, tension, and calories. This technique utilizes
you can gain more significant weight loss benefits in less time, allowing you to get more out of a 15- or 30-minute workout. The more you sweat, the more calories you can burn — without being a gym rat.
can help you sweat out heavy metals and pollutants in your system and strengthen your immune system. BETTER MOOD Besides improving your physical workout, infrared heat can also enhance your mood. When you sweat, you release hormones like dopamine and serotonin, which make you feel good. Infrared sessions can promote relaxation and better sleep — your mental health’s best friend. Some studies have even found participants had reduced anxiety and depression levels after just two weeks of treatment. If you’re ready to turn up the heat on your fitness journey, infrared gyms can help you torch calories faster, sweat out toxins, and burn through all your wellness goals!
QUICKER RECOVERY
infrared rays to penetrate your skin and muscles and heat your body from the inside out. It’s cooler than a traditional sauna but increases your temperature
When body temperature and heart rate increase, the body pumps
blood faster, improving overall circulation. This process, in turn, promotes quicker recovery for
to get your heart pumping and start an intense sweat. Here’s why moving your routine to an infrared gym may be the steamy solution you’ve been looking for.
muscles. Infrared heat can also repair injured tissues and heal achy muscles and joints by reducing inflammation and relaxing the body.
FASTER WARM UP When you use infrared equipment, it raises your core temperature rapidly, causing your body to work harder to cool you down. Thus,
FEWER TOXINS One way the body eliminates toxins is by sweating. Being exposed to infrared heat
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