Thursday, September 10, 2026

 September: Celebrations, Family, and a New Season Ahead


Wedding Ready! 

September always feels like a month of transition. The calendar says summer is winding down, fall is just around the corner, and yet here in San Diego, the weather seems to have missed the memo—it has been hotter than ever!

For our family, this past month has been especially full of celebration, connection, and quality time together. We had the incredible joy of celebrating my sister's wedding, a beautiful reminder of how special it is to gather with the people we love and celebrate life's biggest moments. Having family and friends together made the occasion even more meaningful.

We also had my brother come into town, which gave us another reason to slow down and appreciate time with family. Between busy schedules, work, and everyday responsibilities, moments when everyone can be together are something we never take for granted.

As we move from summer into fall, September is a natural time to reset. Kids are back in school, routines are changing, holidays are slowly approaching, and many of us are beginning to think about what the rest of the year will bring.

It's also a great reminder to check in on the things that help protect what matters most. Whether it's reviewing your home, auto, or life insurance, changes in seasons can be a helpful opportunity to make sure your coverage still fits your life.

At our family insurance agency, we know that insurance is about much more than policies and paperwork. It's about protecting the people, homes, businesses, and memories that mean the most to you.

As we head into this new season, we're feeling grateful—for family celebrations, visits from loved ones, sunny San Diego days (even when they're extra sunny!), and the opportunity to continue serving our amazing community.

Here's to a wonderful September, a smooth transition into fall, and enjoying every moment that comes with a new season.

From our family to yours, we hope you have a safe, happy, and memorable September!




Getting ready with the BRIDE! 


The Beautiful, Bride! 







Protecting Every Member of the Family — Even the Four-Legged Ones!

As we head into fall, it's a great time to think about protecting every member of your family—including your furry family members! 🐾

Farmers offers pet insurance through Pets Best, with coverage options designed to help pet parents manage unexpected veterinary expenses. Depending on the plan you choose, eligible veterinary bills can be reimbursed up to 90%, with options for accident and illness coverage, as well as optional routine wellness care.

Coverage can help with eligible expenses related to accidents, injuries, illnesses, emergency care, surgeries, prescription medications, cancer treatments, and more. There is also an Accident-Only option for those looking for a more budget-friendly way to help protect against unexpected injuries.

One of the great benefits is flexibility—you can take your dog or cat to any licensed veterinarian, specialist, or emergency clinic in the U.S. or Canada. Pets Best also provides policyholders with access to a 24/7 pet helpline.

Pet insurance can provide valuable peace of mind when an unexpected illness or accident happens. After all, our pets aren't just pets—they're part of the family!




Our newest addition to the family - Murph! 


Want to learn more? Give our office a call and we can help you explore your pet insurance options.

Protect Your 4-Legged Family Members!






🍂 Healthy Fall Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili

A hearty, protein-packed chili that’s perfect for a busy weeknight, football Sunday, or a cozy family dinner. It’s full of seasonal flavors without being heavy.



Serves: 6
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

  • Avocado
  • Plain Greek yogurt
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Green onions
  • Lime wedges

Directions

  1.  Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and ground turkey. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked.
  3. Add sweet potatoes, tomatoes, beans, broth, and all seasonings.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20–25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings.
  6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.







🦃 Workout of the Month: Get Turkey Trot Ready!

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, why not start a new family tradition and train for a Turkey Trot 5K together?

A 5K is 3.1 miles, making it a fun and achievable goal for many family members. Whether you're an experienced runner, getting back into exercise, or walking with the kids, the goal isn't about finishing first—it's about getting active, spending time together, and having fun!

🍂 Your Family-Friendly 5K Training Plan

Try completing 3 workouts each week. Remember to listen to your body and adjust the pace or distance based on everyone's fitness level.

WEEK 1: Get Moving

Workout: 20–25 minutes

  • 5-minute easy walk warm-up

  • 1-minute light jog

  • 2-minute walk

  • Repeat 5–6 times

  • 5-minute easy walk cool-down

Family challenge: Take a family walk on one additional day this week.

WEEK 2: Build Your Endurance

Workout: 25–30 minutes

  • 5-minute warm-up walk

  • 2-minute jog

  • 2-minute walk

  • Repeat 5–6 times

  • 5-minute cool-down

Family challenge: See if you can find a new neighborhood, park, or trail to explore together.

WEEK 3: Pick Up the Pace

Workout: 30–35 minutes

  • 5-minute warm-up

  • 3-minute jog

  • 90-second walk

  • Repeat 5–6 times

  • 5-minute cool-down

Family challenge: Complete one longer family walk or hike over the weekend.

WEEK 4: Turkey Trot Ready!

Workout: 30–40 minutes

  • 5-minute warm-up

  • Alternate jogging and walking as needed

  • Work toward completing 3 miles at a comfortable pace

  • Finish with a 5-minute cool-down

Don't worry about speed! The goal is simply to cross the finish line together.






Local Review: The Camp Store 


🌊 The Camp Store — Carlsbad's Bluff-Top Hangout

The Camp Store is located at South Carlsbad State Beach, at 7201 Carlsbad Blvd. It's much more than a traditional campground store—it's a casual restaurant, market, gathering spot, and entertainment venue overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

🍕 What makes it special?

The views are probably the biggest draw. The restaurant sits on the bluff above the beach, making it a great place to grab a meal and watch the sunset. The menu focuses on wood-stone oven pizza along with salads, soups, appetizers, snacks, and drinks.

They also offer live music and seasonal events, which gives the place a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere.

🏕️ It's actually a camp store, too!

The market carries practical items for campers and beachgoers, including groceries, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other camping essentials. The Camp Store also offers beach rentals, including surfboards and bodyboards.

And you don't have to be staying at the campground to visit—The Camp Store is open to the general public.

🔥 One of the coolest features

The Camp Store offers a limited number of bluff-top and patio tables and firepits that can be reserved on select nights. Imagine grabbing pizza, listening to live music, and sitting around a fire while looking out over the Pacific.

They also host private and community events, including birthdays, business gatherings, weddings, graduations, holiday events, and school/community events.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why it's a great family spot

Visit Carlsbad describes it as a family-friendly destination, and the combination of food, ocean views, outdoor seating, music, and beach access makes it an easy option for a casual family outing.

One thing to keep in mind: parking and vehicle access are controlled by California State Parks and can vary. The Camp Store recommends walking, biking, rideshare, or nearby legal parking when the park is busy. 


Family Friday 

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

August 2026

Jenifer and I at our First Toppers Club
Tahoe 2026

As we head into August, it's hard to believe summer is already beginning to wind down. This time of year often brings a mix of busy schedules, back-to-school preparations, last-minute vacations, and exciting milestones. It's a season of making memories while also getting ready for what's next.

For many families, August means checking off school supply lists, squeezing in one more beach day, or planning a weekend getaway before the fall routine begins. While life gets busy, it's also a great reminder to take a few moments to make sure the things that matter most are protected.

Whether you've recently purchased a home, welcomed a new driver in the family, bought a new vehicle, or are simply due for an insurance review, now is a perfect time to ensure your coverage still fits your needs. Life changes quickly, and your insurance should keep up with those changes.

As a family-owned agency, we know that every family has a unique story. That's why we take the time to get to know our clients personally and help them find coverage that provides confidence and peace of mind. Our goal has always been to build lasting relationships, not just policies.

This month is especially meaningful for our family because we'll be celebrating a wedding at the end of August. It's a joyful reminder that life's biggest moments are worth celebrating and protecting. We are incredibly grateful for the support of our clients and community, who have become an extension of our family over the years.

From all of us, thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. We hope your August is filled with sunshine, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

If you've been meaning to review your insurance coverage or have questions about your current policy, we're always here to help. We wish you a safe, happy, and memorable end to the summer!




Farmers Insurance: Auto Insurance 




Does Your Auto Insurance Cover Rental Cars?

Many people take trips and move in the summer time. If you are wondering about your coverage, hopefully this helps. Never hesitate to reach out to our family agency for any clarifying questions. We are happy to help! 

If you have a Farmers auto policy, your coverage generally extends to most rental passenger cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks, providing the same coverage limits as your personal auto policy. Coverage typically applies throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, U.S. territories, and Canada.

If you're renting an RV, you'll need to add separate RV coverage before your trip. Moving trucks are also not covered under a standard personal auto policy, so you'll need to purchase the protection offered by the rental company.

Not all insurance companies provide the same rental car coverage, so it's always a good idea to review your policy or contact your agent before you travel.


Toppers Celebration Lake Tahoe 

Being recognized as a Farmers Insurance Toppers Club member is a significant achievement for a Farmers agent. Toppers Club recognizes high-performing agents who have demonstrated exceptional results in areas such as sales, growth, and overall agency performance.  Top 10% of the Nation.

Membership is reserved for Farmers agents who meet the company’s performance qualifications, making it a notable accomplishment within the Farmers Insurance community.

For agents, earning Toppers Club recognition is more than just an award—it represents hard work, dedication, outstanding customer service, and a commitment to building a successful agency.

At our agency, we’re proud to celebrate achievements like Toppers Club as a reflection of the trust our customers place in us and the dedication we bring to serving our community. We are so very grateful for this opportunity to be recognized, but it does not happen without our amazing staff and of course our amazing customers. Our first time in 29 years !!!




Topper Club at Everline Resort, Lake Tahoe


Jenifer, Glenn and Raul Vargas CEO Farmers Insurance Group

Dinner Reception




Restaurant Review: Tina's Deli 





Tina's Deli is a San Marcos local favorite that’s been serving the community since 1998. It’s known for huge, made-to-order sandwiches, fresh ingredients, generous portions, and friendly service.





🥪 What to Get

Some of their most popular options include:

  • Turkey, Bacon & Avocado — one of their standout sandwiches
  • Hot Pastrami — pastrami, provolone, pickles and “The Works”
  • Hot Reuben
  • French Dip Friday — roast beef, provolone and house-made au jus
  • Turkey Pesto Thursday
  • Hangry Burrito for breakfast
  • Avo Toast with house-made garlic chili oil

760 N. Twin Oaks Valley Rd., San Marcos, CA 92069
Phone: (760) 471-4808
Hours: Monday–Friday 7 AM–3 PM; Saturday 8 AM–2:30 PM; closed Sunday. 






Recipe of the Month: 

🌽 Mexican Street Corn Salad



Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5–10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 6 ears of corn, or about 4 cups corn kernels

  • ⅓ cup Greek yogurt

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise

  • ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta

  • 1 lime, juiced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • ½ tsp chili powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 2 tbsp diced jalapeño, optional

  • 2 green onions, sliced

  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

Instructions

  1. Char the corn: Cut the kernels from the cob. Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and slightly charred.

  2. Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.

  3. Combine: Add the warm corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, green onions and jalapeño to the dressing.

  4. Toss: Mix everything until well coated.

  5. Finish: Top with extra cotija, cilantro, chili powder and a squeeze of fresh lime.

  6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

🌶️ Make It Higher Protein

For a more filling version, add 1–2 cups shredded grilled chicken or mix in ½–1 cup extra Greek yogurt while keeping the mayo portion smaller.





Workout of the Month: Core Blast 

3 rounds — 40 sec work / 20 sec rest

  1. Dead Bug — controlled, lower back pressed into the floor
  2. Reverse Crunch — focus on curling your pelvis up
  3. Plank Shoulder Taps — keep hips as still as possible
  4. Bicycle Crunches — slow and controlled
  5. Mountain Climbers — drive knees toward chest
  6. Forearm Plank — squeeze glutes and brace your abs


Tuesday, July 14, 2026

July 2026

July Is Here: Protect What Matters Most This Summer

June is over....July-ING!! 

July is one of the busiest—and most exciting—times of the year. From family vacations and road trips to backyard barbecues, pool days, and celebrating Independence Day, summer is all about making memories with the people you love.

While you're enjoying everything the season has to offer, it's also a great time to make sure your insurance coverage is keeping up with your summer lifestyle. Whether you're traveling, welcoming guests into your home, purchasing new recreational vehicles, or simply spending more time outdoors, having the right protection in place can provide valuable peace of mind.
As your local family insurance agency, we're here to help you enjoy the season with confidence.

From our family to yours, we wish you a safe, fun, and unforgettable July!


Sushi Chef or Agency Owner?



Updates from our Agency Owner

So many great memories come from the month of July.  Personally, July 4th is my heavenly mothers birthday, also the 4th of July is the day I first started dating our other agency owner, Jenifer Domingo, 33 years ago.  July 10th is our first born's birthday and Addison is now 32. 

On the professional side of life, this fall will be the 30 year anniversary of our agency.  What a wonderful career so far.  The Farmers Insurance Group continues to remain open for business with many of the other carriers still cautious about underwriting policies in our great State of California.  We were just approved for a 22% discount on both the home and auto insurance products if you bundle and combine.  We will be reaching out to our clients for the cross sell opportunity.  Please reach out to our agency if we do not have both products insured with Farmers.  Adding a whole house water shut off detection system will prevent large amounts of water damaging your home in the event of a sudden or accidental burst of water. The smart device is linked to your smart phone and will alert you of any unusual water usage, detect leaks and even shut of the water automatically if you do not over-ride the shut down.   Having this water detection device installed in your home is a one time investment, will lower your premium with a modest discount, and also will give you the option of increasing your water loss deductible to save even more annual premium on your home insurance policy.  

Conducting an annual Farmers Friendly Review is always a great idea.  Call, text or email to set your appointment with me or one of the team.  During our reviews, we usually find other needs or point out over coverages.  We strive to find the best solutions for your business and personal insurance needs.  Domingo and Associates, Your Agency for LIFE.  







Sushi Class for Fathers Day 





Baby Coming Dec 2026! 



Lexie and Efrain are having the Domingo Family Agencies first grandson.  We are thrilled to welcome him last week of December.  





☀️ Tropical Summer Glow Smoothie

Ingredients




  • 1 cup frozen pineapple
  • ½ cup frozen mango
  • ½ frozen banana
  • 1 handful fresh spinach (optional for extra nutrients)
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 cup coconut water (or unsweetened almond milk)
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • Ice, if desired

Directions

  1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add more coconut water or almond milk to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Why You'll Love It

  • 🍍 Rich in vitamin C to support your immune system
  • 🥭 Naturally sweet with no added sugar
  • 💪 High in protein to keep you full longer
  • 🌱 Packed with fiber for digestive health
  • 💧 Hydrating thanks to coconut water
  • ☀️ The perfect refreshing treat for hot summer days

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh strawberries
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Hemp hearts
  • Sliced kiwi
  • Mint leaves







☀️ 20-Minute Summer Sweat Workout

No gym? No problem! This quick, full-body workout will elevate your heart rate, build strength, and leave you feeling energized. Complete 4 rounds of the circuit below.

Format

  • 45 seconds of work
  • 15 seconds of rest
  • Repeat for 4 rounds (20 minutes total)

Round Exercises

  1. Squat to Overhead Reach
    • Sit back into a squat, then stand and reach overhead.
  2. Push-Ups
    • Perform on your toes or knees while maintaining a strong core.
  3. Reverse Lunges
    • Alternate legs with each repetition.
  4. Mountain Climbers
    • Keep your hips low and move at a steady pace.
  5. Glute Bridges
    • Drive through your heels and squeeze your glutes at the top.

Cool Down (Optional: 2–5 Minutes)

  • Standing quad stretch
  • Hamstring stretch
  • Figure-4 glute stretch
  • Chest opener
  • Deep breathing

Pro Tips

  • 💧 Stay hydrated before, during, and after your workout.
  • ☀️ If exercising outdoors, aim for the morning or evening to avoid peak heat.
  • 🎵 Turn on your favorite summer playlist and have fun!
  • 🔥 Challenge yourself by adding dumbbells to the squats and lunges or increasing your pace during the cardio movements.










San Diego Summer Activities: 






🌊 Beach & Water Activities

  • Relax at La Jolla Cove and watch the sea lions.
  • Spend the day at Coronado Beach.
  • Rent a kayak or paddleboard through the La Jolla sea caves.
  • Snorkel or scuba dive in the La Jolla Ecological Reserve.
  • Take a sunset sailing cruise on San Diego Bay.

🥾 Outdoor Adventures

  • Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for breathtaking coastal views.
  • Watch the sunset from Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
  • Bike the Silver Strand between Coronado and Imperial Beach.
  • Explore the trails around Lake Poway or Mission Trails Regional Park.

🎡 Family-Friendly Fun

  • Visit San Diego Zoo.
  • Explore Balboa Park and its museums and gardens.
  • Spend the day at Belmont Park with rides and beachfront attractions.
  • Visit Birch Aquarium in La Jolla.

🍓 Summer Markets & Food

  • Browse the Little Italy Farmers Market on Saturdays.
  • Enjoy fish tacos by the water.
  • Have a beach picnic at Mission Bay.
  • Grab sunset drinks and dinner overlooking the ocean.

🎶 Summer Events

  • Catch a concert at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay.
  • Watch the Big Bay Boom fireworks around the Fourth of July.
  • Attend outdoor movies in parks throughout the county.
  • Visit the Del Mar Fairgrounds during the San Diego County Fair (early summer) or horse racing season.

🌺 Relaxing Date Ideas

  • Sunset picnic at Kate Sessions Park.
  • Rooftop dinner in downtown San Diego.
  • Gondola ride through the Coronado Cays.
  • Couples spa day at a coastal resort.