Obituary
31 departed with a roar on the morning of September 14, 2024. But, if 31 could’ve chosen how to go, it would’ve been just like this: laughing and drinking too much with a group of girlfriends. Something her predecessors didn’t have the luxury of or took for granted.
31 had an incredible year. She planted roots in Temecula, making countless memories and new friends. She married the love of her life in October, spending most of the year wrapped in bliss and doting on Sprocket.
31 delved deeper into her love of reading and devoured everything from nonfiction and fantasy to the NY Times morning newsletter, always eager to learn something new. She felt truly blessed in her work, balancing a fulfilling full-time job and co-ownership of a start-up. Remote work gave her the freedom to thrive, and she felt deeply grateful for being trusted and supported by both companies.
31 experienced a new sense of freedom, settling into self-acceptance that pushed her to get of her comfort zone and continue growing. Her creative spirit flourished—she painted watercolors, crocheted vests, and honed her skills in photography and graphic design.
Mornings were spent sipping lattes at her favorite coffee shop and evenings were spent walking under the stars framed by palm trees. This is what a peaceful, happy life feels like, she decided.
Sure, not every day was perfect, but 31 soaked in every bit of joy—every warm touch of the California sun, every ‘I love you’ exchanged with Arthur, every gentle lick from her dog, Sprocket. When remembering 31, it’s the good times that will come to mind.
Preceded in death by the overshadowing 30, the optimistic 24, the anxious 21, and the melancholy 18, 31 leaves behind nothing but hope and excitement for the future. (32 would have to deal with that nasty hangover.)
31’s Year In Review
The Best Thing About 31
Getting married to my best friend and soul mate. This was, hands down, the single most beautiful moment of the past year.
Favorite Things From 31
Songs on Repeat
This year had a soundtrack all its own. Some of my favorites were “The Bolter” by Taylor Swift, “Casual” by Chappell Roan, “Melrose Meltdown” by Suki Waterhouse, “Taste” by Sabrina Carpenter, “Let It Happen” by Gracie Abrams, “L’amour De Ma Vie” by Billie Eilish, “Lacy” by Olivia Rodrigo, and “Levii’s Jeans” by Beyoncé and Post Malone.
TV Shows I Loved
I enjoyed the twists of “Baby Reindeer,” found thrills in “Fallout,” loved the drama of “Below Deck,” and finally watch the timeless comedy “Seinfeld.”
Memorable Food
The culinary highlights included perfecting my own tomato soup recipe, savoring the malai kofta from Hyderabad, and overindulging in the caprese quiche and vanilla rose latte at Le Coffee.
Books That Stood Out
Some standout reads this year were “Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande, “Sociopath” by Patric Gagne, “Yellowface” by R.F. Kuang, and “Never Saw Me Coming” by Tanya Smith.
Unexpected Joy
Joining a Women’s Book Club on a whim turned out to be the best decision ever. It was a great way to meet new friends and truly begin to feel a part of the community in Temecula.
Travel Adventures
This year was filled with adventures around California—from the warmth of Palm Springs to the charm of Oakhurst, the vibrant energy of San Diego and Los Angeles, and the quaint farmland of Julian. I also traveled twice to Anchorage—once for a snowy Christmas and again in summer—and made a memorable trip to Detroit to visit family. Plus, I checked off a first-time visit to Las Vegas!
Holiday Celebrations
This was a year of “firsts” for the holidays. We hosted the first Thanksgiving in Temecula and spent Christmas back in the very cold, very snowy Anchorage. New Year’s was a cozy night in with Arthur and Sprocket. Valentine’s Day was an unexpected adventure—what was supposed to be a fun cake decorating class turned into tasting the most disgusting cake ever! St. Patty’s Day and the Fourth of July were spent at a friend’s house, full of laughter and great company.
What I’m Most Grateful For
Above all, I’m grateful for this past year spent in Temecula—the sunshine, the wine, the new friends and neighbors. It’s been an absolute dream.
Here’s to the year that was and the adventures yet to come!
Here Lies Rachael Jensen 