Blackhawk Living CA May 2024

Meet the Welch Family: Open Hearts that Led to Love Resident Feature

Joybound – Looking for Love Pet Corner

May Self-Care

Chocolate Cookies In the kitchen

May Historical Fun Facts Mustang Soccer Updates

Niner’s News

Meals on Wheels Diablo Region hosts its 3rd Annual Dining to Deliver Gala Charity Spotlight

May Craft: Sew a Makeup Bag

Follow Us on Instagram!

Living CA

Top Ten San Francisco Bay Area Restaurant List

Food, Golf & Fun

Pathway to Cosmetic Surgery: Considerations and Recommendations Expert Contributor

The best cooking secret – fresh herbs Blackhawk Bloomers Garden Club

NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF JOINS PLANT FORWARD BLOSSOM & ROOT Business Profile

The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club Orlando Golf Destinations

Embracing Seattle’s Spring: Blooms, Sunsets and Urban Adventures Life through a Lens

The Vaca Valley Vettes Cars and Coffee

SRVEF would like to congratulate our 2023-2024 Shining Stars

The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation

We’re Here to Help You Find the Perfect Gift for Mom Expert Contributor

Publication Team

Publisher: Jo Peek, Blackhawk Resident since 2014

Content Coordinator: Megan Scott

Blackhawk Resident since 2010

Designer: Emily Lund

Contributing Photographer: Kim Lind Photography

Advertising

Contact: Jo Peek

Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions:

Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: mscott@bestversionmedia.com. Any

Dear Neighbors,

It’s that time of year when we celebrate and honor the mothers! Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12th. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there!

May also brings Memorial Day, which, in my book, is the gateway to summer. It’s time to pack up the winter clothes and bring out the sandals. Whether you are heading out of town or spending the holiday grilling in your backyard, we hope you have a safe and relaxing holiday weekend.

Blackhawk Living is your neighborhood magazine, and in this issue you’ll meet your neighbors, the Welch Family. They took a chance on love, and it paid off big time.

Plus Blackhawk Chef Parisa Z. Ambwani shares one of her favorite recipes.

Warmly,

Megan Scott

Resident since 2010

Blackhawk Living Magazine is devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at mscott@bestversionmedia.com.

Jo Peek

Expert Contributors

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.

Advertising - Print & Digital

Blackhawk Living CA

Jo Peek

925-272-8246

BlackhawkLivingCA@gmail.com www.BlackhawkLivingCA.com

Auto Sales & Service

Kerri Anderson

Pleasanton Automall

Kerri.Anderson@hendrickauto.com 925-737-5062

Chiropractic

Plaza Chiropractic & Massage Therapy

Dr. Max Lippman, D.C. 925-964-9189

drmax@blackhawkchiropractor.com Website www.blackhawkchiropractor.com

Cosmetic Surgery

Stephen J. Ronan MD FACS

Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and Migraine Center 925-736-5757 www.blackhawkplasticsurgery.com

Dentist

Dr. Larry Porteous DDS

Larry Porteous Family Dentistry 925-736-9000

Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces

Steve Padis

Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com

Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.

The Pleasanton Automall is a luxury automotive dealership housing the Acura and Lexus dealerships located in Pleasanton, CA. In addition to our flagships, we also carry a wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles. We pride ourselves in offering a World Class experience to all of our guests. Visit us today or contact us online to experience the Pleasanton difference.

Dr. Lippman has been in practice in the Tri-Valley since 2009. His passion is to help eradicate back pain and allow people to live their lives to the fullest. He is married and the father of two very good looking kids. When not cracking backs, he can be found running, hiking or biking with his kids, or enjoying a ballgame in the sun.

Blackhawk Plastic Surgery has been offering their patients the highest quality cosmetic treatments in the Blackhawk area for more than 15 years. Now they are thrilled to introduce the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic led by migraine specialist, Alicia Choquette. Alicia brings over 5 years of migraine expertise to the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic and looks forward to helping patients live a better quality of life migraine free.

Porteous Family Dentistry- Larry Porteous DDS and Linda Porteous RDH have been serving the dental needs in the communities of Rodeo,Vallejo and Blackhawk/Danville for over 30 years.They are a full service practice, eliminating, in most cases, the need for referrals. Offering extended hours for your convenience. “Our practices are dedicated to treating and preventing dental diseases in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We strive to give each person the same respect, concern and care we would expect as patients.

Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.

Music: Soloist & Private Voice Lessons

Elizabeth Hunter Ashley

The Performance Studio 925-548-2694

Elizabeth@elizabethhunterashley.com www.elizabethhunterashley.com

Pool Service

Jon Lubrano

Atlantis Pools 925-736-0447 info@atlantispoolsdanville.com atlantispoolsdanville.com

Property Management

California Pacific Realty Zahid Jahania 510-757-1265 www.californiapacificrealty.com infocalpacrealty@gmail.com

Tax & Accounting

East Bay Accounting

Terra A Malcolm 925-421-2202 (office) 925-421-2203 (direct) terra@eastbayacct.com www.eastbayacct.com

Tree Service

Trex Donovan

Buena Vista Tree Service 415-531-1247 ntdonovan@yahoo.com www.buenavistatree.com

Sushi

Blue Sakana Blackhawk

JD Choi

jd@bluesakanablackhawk.com 925-648-7838 bluesakanablackhawk.com

renown conductors, orchestras, composers, international communities, and holds a myriad of national credits including MM degree. As the proprietor of her vocal music studio, she has taught 300+ private students from youth to mature adults offering them a sustainable vocal technique, biannual voice recitals which include philanthropic fund raisers, music connections in the community, performance preparation for high school top choirs, vocal competitions, college prep. recordings, pageant training. Elizabeth is a member of NATS, CCMTAC, an adjudicator for CMEA, and NATS.

Atlantis Pools Inc. is a family owned business that has been serving Contra Costa County for over 25 years. From pool repair, maintenance needs, remodels and updates, no job is too big or small for us. We take pride in the high quality service we give to each customer.

California Pacific Realty is a locally owned and operated full-service Real Estate firm. We specialize in buying, selling, and managing investment properties throughout the Bay area. Our mission is to offer unique turnkey solutions to our investors. We specialize in acquisition, sales, and property management throughout Oakland and the Alameda County area. Our local property management expertise helps owners improve their return on investment (ROI), and renters find their ideal rental home.

East Bay Accounting was established 5 years ago in Danville, California, and our partners have over 20 years of tax law experience. Continuous education on the newest legislation and pristine customer service is what we pride ourselves on. We provide high quality, uniquely tailored tax saving strategies that every American taxpayer deserves to have access to. We look forward to serving our Blackhawk community.

Buena Vista Tree Service is committed to preserving our urban forests and environment. They recycle 100% of our green waste into a reusable landscaping product. Trex safely and efficiently handles all types of tree emergencies 24 hours a day to eliminate tree risks to people and property and significantly reduce your liability exposure.

Blue Sakana has become the premier destination for Japanese food, offering the highest-quality fish and most original sushi rolls in the area. Our inviting atmosphere and friendly staff have quickly made Blue Sakana a neighborhood favorite. Blue Sakana at Blackhawk offers a full bar with artisanal, Asian-inspired cocktails, an eclectic beer selection and a great wine list. We specialize in sushi and Japanese dishes made with fresh ingredients, all at an accessible and affordable price.

Meet the

Welch Family:

Open Hearts that Led to Love

By

Lisa Arzamendi and Bobby Welch are proof that true love can take place in the digital age. They took a chance on online dating and met their soulmate. They both agree that had they not stepped out of their comfort zones and given online dating a try, their paths would have never crossed.

It was 2018. Bobby had just purchased his first home in Walnut Creek and realized he wanted to find the right person to marry and start a family with. Lisa was living and working long hours as a physician in Los Gatos. Her medical assistant suggested she try a dating site geared towards working professionals. Lisa says her little sister happened to be visiting and also pushed Lisa to try online dating. “I reluctantly let her sign me up and set up my dating profile. Little did I know, my future husband-to-be was logging in one last time to cancel his membership.” Bobby says, “I happened to see her profile and had a sense she was the one, so I reached out to her.”

They began writing, then talking on the phone, and eventually met for dinner and a long walk down the Los Gatos Creek trail. They realized they both had similar family backgrounds, drove Toyota Priuses, knew all the words to Oldies songs, bought the same salsa and chili, and had played college rugby. Lisa answered her mother’s check-in text on their second date with “Mom, I think he might be the one!!!” The couple fell in love with each other instantly, and the rest is history.

Bobby proposed to Lisa via a lovingly coordinated plan of deceit. He told Lisa they would be traveling to his best-friend’s son’s 5th birthday party at The Pelican Point RV Park, in Half Moon Bay. “I wrapped the perfect little-boy present and everything! But Bobby had actually booked a suite at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, just

down the road. He had mailed a handwritten letter to my parents, informing them of his plan for proposal, and updated them by phone once the ring was on my finger. We had a wonderful getaway weekend of massages, room service, s’mores fireside on the patio, relaxation, and lots of champagne and celebration. Both our families were thrilled,” says Lisa.

Campbell, CA is where the couple first lived together. “Bobby chivalrously suffered the daily commute to San Francisco to allow me to remain closer to my work. We were married in 2019 at San Jose City Hall, on the one-year anniversary of our first date, then had a small but magical wedding ceremony with family and friends at Bobby’s parents’ house in Alamo,” says Lisa. The wedding was followed by a memorable honeymoon in Belize on Ambergris Caye. “Our stay happened to correspond with country singer Gary P. Nunn’s 7th annual Belize Bash – an intimate week hosted for a dozen or so of his biggest fans – so we purchased tickets and were able to enjoy private concerts and dinners with him and his guests,” Lisa says. “Belize was such a memorable place to visit, and we’d love to return someday,” adds Bobby.

Lisa was born and raised in Merced, CA, in California’s central San Joaquin Valley and says she grew up surrounded by cows in the agricultural valley. “My parents were first-generation Hispanics. My father, Fred, worked as a guidance counselor, English professor, and history instructor at Merced College. My mother, Maura, worked for Merced County as a mental health counselor, and for a time ran her own Merced clothing store. She was the eldest of seven children. I grew up in a house filled with love and am very close to my younger sister, Judy, and to my extensive Mexican-American family.”

Bobby was born in San Francisco and grew up in Alamo. He says San Francisco is in his family’s roots, “My mom was a 3rd generation native San Franciscan and she made my dad drive to San Francisco Children’s Hospital to deliver me and my brothers so she could keep the family legacy alive of being native-born San Franciscans. I’m the youngest of three boys, each separated by roughly 18 months. My brothers and I were all very close growing up, and remain so to this day. We share many friends, and will take any opportunity to arrange for a family get-together.”

Driven from the start, Lisa was a born overachiever. As a child, she excelled in school, graduating top of her class. She held several high school records for running cross country and track & field, and also studied art and piano. At Stanford University, Lisa graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology with a concentration in Health and Human Performance. She also represented Stanford on its varsity crew and rugby teams. Lisa went on to attend UC San Diego School of Medicine (receiving a federal NIH National Cancer Institute fellowship), and completed her internal medicine residency at Kaiser’s Santa Clara Medical Center. Her endocrinology training was completed at UC Davis Medical Center, and she practiced medicine in Capitola and Los Gatos before relocating to open her practice in Walnut Creek in 2020. “I love helping people with their health needs, and as a type 1 diabetic myself, I’m often able to connect with my patients more proficiently and effectively to accomplish this,” says Lisa.

A proud Monte Vista High School graduate, Bobby went to the University of San Francisco for his undergraduate degree. After

Megan Scott, Resident since 2010

Images courtesy of Welch Family Resident Feature is proudly sponsored by Coldwell Banker Eloisa Ortenburger

working for a few years, he went on to get an MBA from Babson College just outside Boston, MA. Bobby has always been fascinated with the stock market and has over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry as a portfolio manager for foundations, endowments, corporate pension plans, and individual investors. He specializes in retirement planning and securities analysis, managing portfolios consisting of individually selected stocks and bonds. Many of his clients have been with him since he got started in 2008, and he gets great satisfaction knowing their financial needs are being met. Bobby says he enjoys the personal relationships he has formed over the years the most. “It feels like you almost become part of their families.” Most recently, in late 2022, the advisory firm he was a partner at was acquired by Wealth Enhancement Group, where he now works as Senior Vice President.

Bobby is a big fan of golf, which he says was one of the biggest draws to Blackhawk. “We’re currently equity golf members at the country club, and look forward to bringing our daughter out to the course when she’s a little older. In the meantime, I enjoy playing both Blackhawk courses and trying to lower my stubbornly high handicap.” Sports cars have been another passion for Bobby since as long as he can remember, having owned several over the years. Growing up, Bobby says his dad always had a sports car for the road and race cars in the garage. “I have fond memories of racing cars with him at Porsche and Shelby club events at

the various track days they would sponsor. Now, I enjoy taking Lisa for road trips along the coast and throughout wine country in our Ferrari, preferably with the top down and the music up!”

A lifelong passion for long distance running (slowly evolved to marathon-length runs) has kept Lisa active and involved in many races throughout her life. She still enjoys running, hiking, tennis, rowing, and other outdoor activities. She recently had her first ski lesson in Tahoe, and is eager to try more of this with family and friends. Tennis at Blackhawk’s Tennis Villas will also be in her near future.

However what Lisa and Bobby enjoy more than anything is being parents to Sienna, their adorable auburn-haired three-year-old toddler. “Sienna attends preschool at Tree of Life Learning Center across from Sycamore Park. She loves mermaids, kitties, unicorns, running fast, soft blankets, dressing up like a princess, PlayDough, My Gym tumbling classes, dancing with Mommy, and being tickled by Daddy. This summer, she’s excited to go swimming and perhaps to even visit Disneyland for the first time,” says Lisa. In addition, the family has two chinchilla Persian cats, and one actual chinchilla.

Bobby and Lisa say they purchased their dream home in Blackhawk in May 2020 in the Oakridge neighborhood. “Having grown up in Alamo, Bobby was familiar with the East Bay, and suggested we look into Blackhawk. We knew as soon as we entered the gates that the home for sale there would be perfect,” says Lisa. “Our neighbors are always looking out for one another, helping each other out and regularly sharing gifts and homemade meals.” The Oakridge HOA coordinates get-togethers at least once or twice a year. They’ve given our family the best experience here we could ever have hoped for.”

Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at mscott@bestversionmedia.com.

Joybound Looking for Love

By Cole Kuiper, Joybound (Formerly ARF)

Adopt a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person: Monday-Sunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.

Here are a couple of our adorable animals looking for love:

Goose is the silliest and sweetest goober! This pocket sized princess is eager to make friends wherever she goes. Aside from being incredibly affiliative, Goose is also highly treat motivated and loves to spend time learning new tricks in exchange for a tasty snack. This girlypop cannot wait to make you giggle with her comical personality. If you are searching for a happy go lucky pup, Goose is your girl!

Joybound adoption fees:

• $150 for an adult dog

• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)

• $75 for a special-needs dog

• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)

• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)

• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans

Ace loves to play! Whether it is a walk in the park or a new adventure, this dog loves to explore all the smells the world has to offer! Ace will need to be the only dog in his new home. Give this fluffy pup a home to call his own!

Bonus: Ace’s adoption fee has been sponsored by a generous admirer!

Joybound adoption fees:

• $100 for an adult cat

• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)

• $50 for a special-needs cat

• $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)

• $50 for a senior cat (7+ years)

• Adoption fees waived for US military Veteranss

May Self-Care

By Grace Schulte

I’ll probably never stop preaching the importance of self-care. As humans, we can wear many hats, and sometimes that comes with a crazy amount of responsibilities. As the weather starts to clear, it’s time to recharge. Here are two of my favorite self-care practices.

Meditation

In a busy world, our minds are constantly running. Sometimes our minds only get to rest when we’re sleeping. Meditation may be intimidating at first, but it’s worth trying even if you’re skeptical.

Once you have your intention to meditate, find a spot you’d like to settle into. Choose a predetermined amount of time you’d like to meditate for. Anywhere between 5-10 minutes is a great place to start. You might find it hard to settle your thoughts as you settle in. If you feel your mind wandering and running, don’t fight it. Allow yourself to acknowledge your thoughts, but don’t let them linger. Let them go just as fast as they came.

The first few times you try meditating, it’s probably not going to be perfect, but that’s okay. Even those who have extensive experience with meditation will have days in which they find their minds extra restless. Honor your feelings and be proud of yourself for taking time to take care of you!

Get Creative

You don’t have to be an artist to get creative. Most things in life have the potential to become a creative outlet. For example, if you’re a reader, think about a book and brainstorm different storyline paths. Think about how the story may have turned out if those two people actually ended up together or what would have happened if they never met. Map your ideas out in a notebook and make a timeline of how the story might unfold. You can also do this with movies and television shows if you’re more of a watcher than a reader. If you are an artist, try creating something without revision. Draw something without an eraser, or even better, in pen

If you don’t consider yourself to be naturally creative, this might be a little scary. However, remember that there are no wrong answers and no bad creations when you’re doing this. I challenge you to think outside of your comfort zone. Who knows, you might find yourself nurturing a part of you that you haven’t in a long time!

Serves 6

Chocolate Cookies

By Parisa Z. Ambwani, Resident since 1983

Preheat oven to 350-degree F.

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 4-ounce semi-sweet dark chocolate, shaved

• ¼ cup turbinado raw sugar

• ¼ cup unsweetened coconut, finely shredded

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

• 1 whole egg, lightly beaten

• 2 egg whites, beaten to soft peak

• 1½ teaspoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons organic lemon zest, freshly grated

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Place (oats, chocolate, sugar, coconuts, and salt) in food processor. Pulse processor a few times (on and off) until dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

With the processor running, and the help of a pitcher, gradually add remaining ingredients (whole egg, eggs whites, olive oil, lemon zest and vanilla) through the feeding tube and run for 30 seconds until soft dough ball is formed that cleans the bowl.

Form dough into small balls and flatten or cover a wooden board with a sheet of clear plastic wrap, place cookie dough on the plastic wrap and cover with another plastic wrap. With your hand press the dough gently to create a smooth flat surface and roll the dough gently about ¼-inch thick with a rolling pin.

Remove top plastic wrap. Cut the dough with a small circular cookie cutter that has been dusted with flour. Place formed cookies onto parchment paper lined cookie sheet about ½ inch apart. Bake cookies in the middle rack of oven for 8-10 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center comes out slightly moist but clean.

Holistic Journey

Knowledge alone is not power; knowledge transforms itself into a powerful vessel when it is put to benevolent use.

About Parisa Z. Ambwani: Parisa, a native of Persia who moved to Blackhawk in 1983, has a BA in Fine Arts. Deeply influenced by her mother’s cooking, she has spent three decades writing cookbooks and pairing food with her poetry, philosophy, herbs and spices, and herbal teas. Parisa’s unique cookbooks are known for their merging of useful culinary information with a clear understanding of the relationship with other human beings and with the universe. She has followed this recipe to write and photograph seven books and over 1000 recipes that weave her beliefs into caring words on how to live life to the fullest. Learn more by visiting her website, enlightenedrecipes.com.

HISTORICAL FUN FACTS MAY

By Amanda Griffin

From daring expeditions and monumental achievements to a deadly sticky mess, the month of May has borne some outstanding moments that have indelibly marked the fabric of North American history and culture.

The Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) was founded in England on May 2, 1670. This fur trading company played a significant role in the exploration and development of Canada, particularly in the regions surrounding Hudson Bay. The company's activities helped shape early Canadian history and laid the groundwork for British colonization in the area.

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, along with their Corps of Discovery, departed from St. Louis, Missouri on May 14, 1804, on an expedition to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean. The Lewis and Clark Expedition lasted over two years and covered thousands of miles, significantly expanding knowledge of the American West. The First Transcontinental Railroad was completed on May 10, 1869. The ceremonial “golden spike” was driven at Promontory Summit in Utah officially connecting the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads. It marked a significant milestone in United States history, facilitating transportation and commerce across the continent and accelerating the westward expansion.

The North-West Mounted Police (NWMP), which later became the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), was officially established by the Canadian government May 15, 1873. This iconic law enforcement agency was tasked with maintaining law and order in Canada’s western territories. It played a crucial role in the settlement of the Canadian West and the enforcement of Canadian sovereignty. The Canadian Pacific Railway was completed May 24, 1883. The last spike of the transcontinental railway was driven at Craigellachie, British Columbia, connecting Canada from coast to coast. This monumental achievement in Canadian history facilitated transportation and trade across the vast expanse of the country and helped promote national unity.

The United States Supreme Court issued its historical ruling in Plessy v. Ferguson on May 18, 1896. This landmark case established the "separate but equal" doctrine, upholding racial segregation laws, particularly in public facilities such as schools and transportation. The decision had profound implications for civil rights in the United States until it was overturned by Brown v. Board of Education in 1954. On January 15, 1919, a massive storage tank containing over 2 million gallons of molasses burst in Boston, Massachusetts. The explosion killed 21 people and led to a devastating flood of molasses rushing through the streets at speeds of up to 35 mph (56 km/h), destroying most everything in its path, including buildings. The “Great Molasses Flood” remains one of the strangest disasters in United States history. The Winnipeg General Strike began May 29, 1919. Approximately 30,000 workers walked off the job demanding better wages, improved working conditions, and the right to collective bargaining. Lasting for six weeks, the strike was one of the most significant labor disputes in Canadian history. Although the strike ultimately ended without achieving its primary goals, it still had a profound impact on Canadian labor relations and social reforms. The original "Star Wars" film (later retitled "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope") was released in theaters across the United States on May 25, 1977. Directed by George Lucas, the film revolutionized the science fiction genre, became a cultural phenomenon, and spawned a vast franchise that includes films, television series, books, merchandise, and a pop culture that’s still going strong today.

Lewis & Clark

Mustang Soccer News

By Melissa Durkee, Marketing & Communications Director, Mustang Soccer

Mustang Soccer Announces Launch of Affiliation & License Agreement Program with Mt. Diablo Mustang Soccer, Providing and Developing More Pathways for Players

Mustang Soccer is proud to announce the official launch of our new Affiliation & License Agreement Program, with the first club being Mt. Diablo Mustang Soccer. This new club aims to provide a pathway for talented young athletes in the Mt. Diablo area, to develop their skills and compete at a high level while maintaining strong connections to local AYSO regions and recreational soccer programs.

Mustang Soccer Affiliation & License Agreement Program:

Mustang Soccer Board of Directors President, Ricardo Martinez, is excited about the new program and the first affiliate. “This is a momentous day in the history of Mustang Soccer Club. Our ability to create an Affiliation & License Agreement Program and expand the Mustang brand with such a prominent club in the East Bay was extremely hard to ignore. Both clubs will benefit from this arrangement with our ability to share best practices, cooperate on soccer education and training development, create an opportunity for recreational program interplay, and a continued focus on creating a fun community environment for our players. We look forward to a long-lasting relationship.”

Denis McCarthy, Club Advisor to Mt. Diablo Mustang Soccer is looking forward to the partnership. “AYSO is pleased to enter into this agreement with Mustang Soccer because of the highest quality that the Mustang brand represents and has represented to the soccer community in the Bay Area for the last 50 years. The alignment and value system that Mustang has created from its entry-level to the highest levels of club soccer while focusing on fostering a love for the game is our promise to the players that will join our club level program. These values align closely with AYSO’s vision statement to Provide World Class Soccer Programs That Enrich Children’s Lives. We are confident that the value that will be available to the players in Mount Diablo Mustang Soccer will only serve to strengthen the soccer community in the Diablo Valley.“

Building a Strong Partnership and Opportunities:

“Mustang Soccer is fortunate to have a partner in both Mt. Diablo Mustang Soccer and AYSO Area 2C as we embark on this new affiliation. The alignment of values of both organizations will assist in growing the Mustang brand while developing more players in the Northern California region. We are excited to expand our influence in partnership with both organizations,” says Fred Wilson, Executive Director of Mustang Soccer.

Molly McCabe, Commissioner at Mt. Diablo Mustang Soccer shares the same enthusiasm. “We are excited to partner with Mustang Soccer as we launch a new competitive soccer program serving the Diablo Valley through AYSO Area 2C. Mt. Diablo Mustang Soccer will provide a positive and engaging environment where players constantly learn and improve their skills, regardless of their ultimate goals.”

Mustang Soccer recognizes the importance of both recreational and competitive soccer and providing a player development

pathway for all players is a key factor in instilling a love for the game. The Affiliation & License Agreement will commence with the Competitive Program for the 2024-2025 season as Mt. Diablo Mustang Soccer. The Recreation Program from each of the AYSO Area 2C Regions will begin to interplay with Mustang Soccer Recreational Program teams in the Fall of 2024.

Commitment to Community:

Mustang Soccer is delighted about all the benefits the affiliation will bring.

• Nike will provide gear for all competitive coaches of the new affiliate organization as a part of the Mustang Soccer Premier Club contract

• The cost of the competitive Nike kits will be more affordable than previous vendors for the new affiliate

• Sharing of best practices between the two organizations

• Opportunity for interplay between recreational programs and age groups in areas where there are limited teams, ensuring a more robust schedule

• Offering a pathway to higher-level, competitive soccer

Niner’s News

By Fran Davis

With rain leading up the days before, clear skies welcomed Niners and company to Guest Day on March 28th. It was a perfect morning for a fun round with friends with a game called “Three Blind Mice”. At the end of the round, three holes were randomly selected and removed from everyone’s score. Lunch followed with a delicious buffet lunch in the Falls dining room with salad and toppings, tortilla soup, shrimp and chicken, and chocolate covered strawberries. Spring decor on the tables provided a fresh vibrant Spring atmosphere; thank you to Wendy Echsner for planning and organizing. Thank you to Andrew Brown for executing the fun game, and thank you to the hardworking Blackhawk catering staff.

Niner’s March 28th Guest Day Results

NET 3 holes that were removed were 2/3/9

1st Place - Fran Davis

2nd Place - Maureen Pereira

3rd Place - Annette Costello

to right,

GROSS - 3 holes that were removed 1/5/6

1st Place - Jennifer Holden (Guest of Channing Azzolino)

2nd Place - Keri Spanier (Guest of Annette Costello)

3rd Place - Jae Hahn

Look for more guest day pictures in the May Blackhawk Country Club newsletter

PatPaulMelanie

Left

Fran Davis, Keri Spanier (Guest of Annette Costello), Annette Costello, Jennifer Holden, (Guest of Channing Azzolino), Maureen Pereira, and Jae Hahn (far right)

March Charm Day Results

1st Flight

1st Place Low Gross - Pat Burgess

2nd Place Low Gross - Carol Gray

1st Place Low Net - Misty Wilkins

2nd Place Low Net - Helen Tarantino

Low Putts - Misty Wilkins

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2nd Flight

1st Place Low Gross - Brenda McNabb

2nd Place Low Gross - Maureen Pereira

1st Place Low Net - Michelle Barry

2nd Place Low Net - Fran Davis

Low Putts - Brenda McNabb

If you are new to golf, returning to regular play or are just looking to play with a great group of ladies, check us out. Contact our membership chair, Leslie Sprague at lesliesprague@comcast.net.

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Where residents find and recommend the best local,

Shelley Foster, Nancy Batiste, Barbie Wickham and Jane Chaplin who walked away with a bottle of wine!

March Charm Day Winner Leigh Bultman

hosts its 3rd Annual Dining to Deliver Gala

By Sherry Nadworny, Director of Development & Community Relations

Comedine, dance, and have a blast as you help your older neighbors when Meals on Wheels Diablo Region hosts its 3rd Annual Dining to Deliver Gala on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville.

The evening will feature a cocktail hour, dinner, a silent and live auction with auctioneer Ellen Toscano, formerly of Beach Blanket Babylon, as well as dancing to the live band, the Time Bandits. Funds raised from the event will help MOW Diablo Region deliver free meals and supportive services to seniors that keep them nourished and safe, living independently at home.

According to Sherry Nadworny, Director of Development & Community Relations, this year’s Gala is especially important. “Covid stimulus funds, which helped us deliver more meals and begin new needed programs, will be sunsetting in September. In the U.S., only 3% of all philanthropic support goes to seniors, even though they are the fastest growing segment of the population in the country and in our community. Support for our elders is needed to ensure that we are there for them today, and into the future.”

The demand for MOW Diablo Region’s delivered meals and supportive services continues to increase. Last year, the organization delivered a record 700,000 meals, and are on track to deliver even more this coming year. That’s a 100% increase since pre-Covid numbers, and the need for supportive services is also growing.

“Our older neighbors are feeling the effects of inflation, higher rents, and the awful decision of having to choose between food or medicine,” says Nadworny. “They need MOW Diablo Region more than ever. We hope the community will join us for the Dining to Deliver Gala. It’s a great way to have fun and help our elders.”

To purchase tickets, go to www.mowdiabloregin.org and click on events.

May Craft: Sew a Makeup Bag

By Michelle Barry, Resident since 2018

This month is a quick sewing project, a makeup bag. This was completed from start to finish in less than three hours. It is an easy, beginner project. The video is easy to follow. I love how they turned out. Here is the link to the instructional video: https://tinyurl.com/bdemz9nj

I made some for friends and they really liked them.

Craft Retreats

I have met and made friends with the nicest people I meet at Craft Retreats. It is a great way to meet people with similar interests. People attend from all over the state and (depending on the retreat) from all over the world. Some focus on painting, others on hand sewing, embroidery, quilting, slow stitching and foraging. The food we enjoy at the retreats is usually local farm to table displays. Artists are curated to teach you their specialty. Some examples of Craft Retreats out there are held by the French General. They hold two trips in Vermont each year and many in France.

The French General: https://www.frenchgeneral.com/

There are many out there. Here are a sample:

Curious House: https://www.curioushouse.net/courses

Forage by Lisa Mattock: https://www.foragebylisamattock.com.au/

Shiny Happy Art: https://www.shinyhappyartonline.com/

Cathe Holden https://catheholden.com/events/ Alisa Burke https://www.shopalisaburke.com/ collections/retreats-and-classes

I like the retreats that are held in other locations, because they usually tie in trips to the local shops, sites and experience the local specialities.

When I was in Vermont, attending the French General retreat, we spent a morning at a Sugar House where we learned how maple sap was extracted and then boiled and made into maple syrup and maple sugar.

I hope you have the chance to attend a retreat and meet the wonderful people that run them and attend them.

Top Ten San Francisco Bay Area Restaurant List

By Mike L. McColgan, Resident since 1990

Recently, we published our Top Ten Winery List. We have enjoyed trying to visit all of the 600 Napa, Healdsburg and Sonoma wineries. We are at 400, and counting.

At a recent lunch, I also created a Top Ten Bay Area Restaurant list, having been to over 1000 dining establishments and counting.

For more information and to make a reservation go to their web sites.

Finally, it is always great to finish these meals with a famous Buena Vista Irish Coffee (picture above) brought to the United States from Shannon, Ireland in 1952.

In no special order, enjoy our Top Ten San Francisco Bay Area Restaurant list.

Kokkari

Moussaka, wood fired barbecue lamb, chicken and pork and the sensational Lemon Soup.

Crustacean

Drunken Crab and Garlic Noodles. A ‘must do’ San Francisco experience.

Pebble Beach Tap Room

Tap Burger, Fries, frosted glass Guinness, and Coconut Cake. Voted Top 19th hole in the United States.

Rutherford Grille

French Dip, Ribs, Fries and Grilled Artichokes. Always packed and full of energy.

No corking fee on your first bottle of wine.

John’s Grille

Home of the Maltese Falcon and serving many foodies and famous people for over a 100 years.

Petrale

San Francisco Sour Dough bread, Perfect Manhattans and Escargot soaked in garlic sauce.

House Of Prime Rib

Succulent Prime Rib sliced at your table serving loyal patrons and famous people since 1947.

Scomas

Serving famous San Francisco Cioppino and Sour Dough bread on the San Francisco Wharf for many decades.

Thomas Keller’s WorldFamous French Laundry and Bouchon bakery.

3-star Michelin Atelier Crenn

Dominique Crenn is known as the best female chef in the world.

Model Bakery

Famous English Muffins baked fresh daily and a variety of heavenly sugar treats.

Pathway to Cosmetic Surgery: Considerations and Recommendations

By Brette Julian, Patient Coordinator

Hello! My name is Brette Julian, and with nearly two decades of experience, I’ve been dedicated to supporting patients as a Patient Coordinator at Blackhawk Plastic Surgery & MedSpa. I’ve consulted with thousands of patients and fully understand that the decision to undergo a surgical procedure can be a big deal—it’s not just about enhancing appearance but also about nurturing self-assurance, safely and effectively.

One of the most important steps in this aesthetic journey is to understand what your end goal is, and then to meet with a very experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon. Since joining our practice, I’ve had the honor and pleasure to work with the esteemed Dr. Stephen Ronan MD FACS, the founder of Blackhawk Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Ronan’s accolades speak for themselves—he’s consistently recognized as one of America’s Top Plastic Surgeons by the nation’s leading providers of information on doctors. He was also voted as “Best in The Bay” and one of the nation’s Top Hair Restoration Surgeons in America! His commitment to excellence is evident in the thousands of successful procedures performed annually at our fully accredited Blackhawk Surgery Center.

Okay… Yes, it’s true—I may be a bit biased since I’m part of the team. However, Dr. Ronan is the very reason I sought out a position here initially. He’s also the surgeon I’ve chosen for the few cosmetic procedures I’ve undergone over the years. Each time, I’ve been thrilled with the natural-looking results that have withstood the test of time. But enough about me.

Choosing the right surgical facility is very important. Consider accreditation from reputable organizations like the AAAASF. Private surgery centers, such as ours, offer distinct advantages, including a dedicated staff familiar with the surgeon’s techniques, leading to consistently superior outcomes. Anesthesia management is another crucial aspect. Discuss the approach thoroughly with your surgeon and ensure the presence of certified anesthesiologists to oversee your care.

Ultimately, it’s essential to trust and feel comfortable with your surgeon and their team. While a surgeon doesn’t have to be your best friend, you should have a good feeling about them and their practice. Take the time to ask questions, get to know the staff, and ensure that you and your surgeon are aligned between your goals and expectations.

If you’re ready to schedule a personalized consultation, feel free to reach out to me at 925-736-5757. Additionally, mark your calendars for our upcoming BPS Live! episode on May 15th, where Dr. Ronan and I will discuss a groundbreaking, skin-tightening new procedure, Ellacor. RSVP via the QR code in our advertisement. I hope to see you in person or online soon!

The best cooking secret – fresh herbs

By Aly Baker

Herbs are easy to grow and will add a bright, fresh taste to almost any meal. Below are some of the most popular herb “families” that will flourish all season.

Mint Plant Family: anise, basil, lavender, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, sage, thyme, and of course, mint! The mint family herbs prefer dryer conditions so don’t overwater! And since they have very shallow roots, they are great container plants. The more you cut them, the more they give you.

The Carrot Family: cilantro, cumin, dill, fennel, and parsley, have long roots – plant them in a deep pot or ground that gives their roots at least one foot of soil to grow in.

The Onion Family: Chives, rosemary, oregano, and thyme add great flavor to food and are the easiest to grow. They thrive on neglect. Keep them in a sunny area, water once a week. Rosemary will pump up the flavors in hearty chicken, beef or lamb dishes, Thyme is a great addition to fish and root vegetables.

Herbs like to be harvested frequently and will grow thicker with frequent sniping. Always cut back before they begin to flower for the best flavor.

This helpful information was brought to you by the Blackhawk Bloomers. If you would like to learn more or become a member of this fantastic organization, please contact Maria Knutson at m.knutson@comcast.net

New Executive Chef with Michelin Credential

Joins Plant Forward Blossom & Root

By Joan Simon, Full Plate Restaurant Consulting

Blossom & Root in the heart of downtown Danville has upped its culinary game with the hiring of former Lazy Bear co-chef Chris Johnson as its new Executive Chef. A 20- year veteran of the Bay Area’s dining scene, Chef Johnson brings a cutting-edge culinary sensibility to the casually chic, plant-based eatery sure to make it both a destination and a community favorite for indoor and outdoor dining whether you are a vegan, vegetarian, or omnivore.

Chef Johnson’s resume reads like a greatest hits list of Bay Area dining from Senior Sous at the legendary 3 Michelin starred Coi to Executive Chef at Haven in Oakland (which earned a loyal East Bay following for his high-level comfort food) to a five-year stint at the groundbreaking Lazy Bear in San Francisco where his team garnered 2 Michelin stars. “The challenge of creating a delicious plant-based menu totally dovetails with my long-time commitment to building strong relationships with local farmers,” explained the Tracy resident. “ I couldn’t be more excited to work in my own backyard.”

Dishes change micro-seasonally at lunch and dinner; bolstered by Chef’s pantry of fermented and preserved produce. In addition to adding inspired twists to Blossom & Root’s most popular dishes, Johnson has recently introduced Crispy Rice & Mushroom Lettuce Cups with fermented shiitake, shallot, lime, fried garlic, peanut; a ‘Crab Cake’ Sandwich featuring Fungi Farm mushrooms, old bay

aioli, pickles & onion; Avocado & Citrus Salad with marinated beets, charred avocado, blood orange and marcona almonds and a Gigante Beans & Greens shareable starter utilizing kale, grilled broccolini, and green garlic. Sandwiches - including the much sought after B&R Smash Burger made with chickpeas, black beans, shiitake, housemade tomato aioli, sliced ‘cheese’, maple smoked mustard and house pickles - are served with a choice of side salad. The restaurant has also expanded takeout & delivery, with a continuing emphasis on gluten free, soy free and nut free options. A creative wine cocktail program and family friendly non- alcoholic libations (as well as a kids menu) also reflect the kitchen’s healthful, seasonal approach.

Blossom & Root is located at 411 Hartz and is open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch from 11:30am- 3:30pm and dinner starting at 4pm. Delivery is available through Doordash and UberEats and semiprivate dining is available for large groups. For reservations visit Open Table or blossomandrootkitchen.com and for the latest news follow them @blossomandrootkitchen.

Blood Orange

Hibiscus Margarita

Smoked Potato & Leek Soup

The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club Orlando

By Chuck Fox, Owner, Quintessential Golf, Resident since 2012

The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando hotel, the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek hotel and the 75-acre Bonnet Creek Nature Preserve make up the 482-acre Bonnet Creek Resort Development. Waldorf Astoria Golf Club is open to the public, but hotel guests receive a discount. We had heard good feedback about the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club but were skeptical. Would it be another wellmanicured but gentle and less challenging resort course? Surprisingly, Waldorf Astoria Golf Club is a spectacular tournament-caliber golf course. The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club is the first Rees Jones design in Orlando.

Carved from a sizable area of swampland near the Orlando theme parks, the course sports traditional Rees Jones elevated greens that slope on the back and sides. Long and errant approach shots bound down the green-side slopes and the lack of false fronts allow run-up shots. There are no houses, and the feeling is remote. To increase pace-of-play for a resort course, the rough is minimal, out-of-bounds is nonexistent, and water hazards are all staked red as lateral.

The front nine is the gentler of the two nines. Areas outside the rough often incorporate tall bunch grass giving a cleaner look while maintaining shot difficulty. Rees Jones greens roll off the back and sides as seen on Hole #7 and Hole #12. A fun reachable Par5, Hole #8 is the lull before the storm of the back nine as the course brings its teeth.

Back nine starts with a short Par4 Hole #10, an excellent opportunity for a birdie. Over fifty bunkers throughout the course include fairway bunkers on every hole and green-side bunkers on every hole but one. Many of these bunkers are large sprawling complexes. Water comes into play on twelve holes. As shown on the cart GPS, snake and alligator warnings are prevalent in Florida. Hole #13 is short dogleg left around the pond to an elevated green that falls off on the back and left side into the water or a bunker. The Par4 Hole #15 is another dogleg left around the water with a large bunker complex in the landing area to the right demanding precision from the tee.

Extensive water and woods make an exciting combination of openness and remoteness at the same time. With a challenging layout of memorable holes and excellent conditioning, the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club is a resort course you’ll want to play again. Spend a few days here with the kids at the theme parks.

If You Go:

Course Info - Waldorf Astoria Golf Club includes eighteen championship golf holes. Only members or guests of the Waldorf Astoria or Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek have access to the golf course.

Location - Thirty minutes west of the Orlando International airport. Only a few miles from the major theme parks. Google Map

Lodging - Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek are on the golf course.

Find other high-resolution photos at: https://www.quintessentialgolf.com/destinations/waldorf-astoria-golf-club

Quintessential Golf (https://www.quintessentialgolf.com)

A source of golf travel inspiration, Quintessential Golf online magazine spotlights the most spectacular, enduring and scenic courses, resorts and golf adventures. Written from a players point-of-view, articles include magnificent high-resolution course images. Brought to you by Chuck Fox, single-digit golfer, writer and photographer based in Danville, California, he is fulfilling his passion and dream to play, photograph and share the romance and beauty of golf throughout North America.

Plenty of Water

Long Wooden Bridge

Clubhouse

Embracing Seattle’ s Spring: Blooms, Sunsets and Urban Adventures

By Sonia Lamba, Resident since 2015

Place

The Gum Wall: A sticky mosaic of creativity, where visitors leave their mark in a unique and unconventional way

As an aspiring photographer, I have always loved taking beautiful photos of my friends and family, nature and travels. After having a fulfilling career in finance in New York, I moved to California in 2014 where my love for photography turned into an invigorating passion. Moving to gorgeous Blackhawk has further enriched and blossomed my love for the camera. I take my camera everywhere, regardless of how short the distance is. Knowing me, there is always a photo opportunity!

Sonia Lamba

Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass: Innovation and Artistic Flair at its best

Seattle’s vibrant skyline and majestic Mount Rainier in the embrace of Puget Sound

The beautiful Seattle Great Wheel at sunset

Pike

Market: where farmers, artisans, and foodies come together to celebrate the spirit of Seattle

The Vaca Valley Vettes

By Celeste Altus

Several generations of “America’s sports car,” the Chevrolet Corvette, were on hand recently outside the Blackhawk Museum. The Vaca Valley Vettes, a Solano County Corvette club, cruised into town with a collection that spanned the Vette spectrum: from a gorgeously restored 1958 model to the modern body style. Each era of Vette was represented: The Sting Rays. The shark-like C3. The ‘84 C4. The club is open to Vacaville-era Corvette owners who want to hang out and share their affection for the model, and the need for speed.

Celeste Altus is a freelance writer and content marketer specializing in technology, retail and finance. She lives in Danville, and keeps a car account on Instagram called @ Cars_of_Danville.

The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation

SRVEF would like to congratulate our 2023-2024 Shining Stars

By Alicia Gee

We celebrated these amazing people at our Night with the Stars gala on April 24. Check out our website to see pictures from the event.

Congratulations to our 2023-2024 Shining Stars

SRVEF Shining Star – Cindy Fischer

Alamo Elementary – Lauren Cymerys

Alternative Education (Venture & Del Amigo Schools) – Alana Buechler

Bella Vista Elementary – Phyllis Davis

Bollinger Canyon Elementary – Marta Wicke

California High School – Trisa Kent

Charlotte Wood Middle School – Caroline Smith

Country Club Elementary – Andea Mahoney

Coyote Creek Elementary – Karen Young

Creekside Elementary – Craig Harter

Diablo Vista Middle School – Lauren Ghio

Dougherty Valley High School – Dharmesh Mistry

Gale Ranch Middle School – Jen Zotter

Golden View Elementary – Trissie Kiefer

Green Valley Elementary – Maryam Mercado

Greenbrook Elementary – Monika Miller

Hidden Hills Elementary – Ami Parikh

Iron Horse Middle School – Lynette Gonzales

John Baldwin Elementary – Leah Bray

Live Oak Elementary – Lili Shiau

Los Cerros Middle School – Jamie Shackelford

Montair Elementary – Sylvia Leick

Monte Vista High School – Melissa Alcorn

Montevideo Elementary – Joy Gath

Neil Armstrong Elementary – Shannel Glaspy

Pine Valley Middle School – Ken Ellis

Quail Run Elementary – Lisa Louda

Rancho Romero Elementary – Brooke Eubanks

San Ramon Valley High School – Cheryl Glass

Stone Valley Middle School – Daniel Elliott

Sycamore Valley Elementary – Katerina McCormack

Tassajara Hills Elementary – Jordan Cox

Twin Creeks Elementary – Suzanne Ruiz

Vista Grande Elementary – Katie Cox

Walt Disney Elementary – Tasneem Ziauddin

Windemere Ranch Middle School – Britta Fischer

We’re Here to Help You Find the Perfect Gift for Mom

By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry

Every year at Padis, Mother’s Day - this year on May 12thbrings us special opportunities to be part of celebrating the important women in your lives. Making recommendations that’ll make her smile? That’s our happy place.

We recognize and celebrate that there are all kinds of moms in our lives for Mother’s Day: working moms, young moms, single moms, stepmoms, like-a-moms, grandmas, great-grandmas, and the list continues. So for all of the different moms we know and love, here are our top recommendations for gifts to show your love this Mother’s Day:

Initial and Nameplate Jewelry

This Mother’s Day, express your heartfelt appreciation with a personalized necklace, a timeless token of affection that she’ll treasure forever. Show mom you love her with a message written in gold and diamonds! We love custom, personalized necklaces because they quickly become a staple in any woman’s jewelry collection AND they’re meaningful! We have a number of options to select from. Depending on how many names, birthstones, initials, or messages you want to engrave, choose either a nameplate or diamond initial necklace.

Whether adorned with birthstones representing each child or featuring a delicate pendant with a significant symbol, personalized necklaces offer a unique and thoughtful way to celebrate the incomparable bond between a mother and her children. With each glance at this personalized piece, she’ll be reminded of the unconditional love and appreciation that fills her life, making it a gift a truly unforgettable gift.

Diamond Stud Earrings

For Mother’s Day, consider the timeless elegance of diamond earrings, whether lab-grown or natural. You can’t go wrong with the timeless, essential gift of diamond studs available in all metal colors! Lab-grown diamonds are crafted with technology to mirror the brilliance of their natural counterparts. These diamonds, grown under controlled conditions, boast the same exceptional quality and beauty as those formed deep within the earth. Alternatively, natural diamond earrings carry a unique allure, showcasing the marvels of nature’s craftsmanship over millennia. Both options radiate sophistication and love, making them perfect gifts to celebrate and cherish the remarkable mothers in our lives.

We recommend it to every spouse who asks us what they should get for their partner if they don’t have them already. Even if she already has a pair from us, Padis offers a Lifetime Trade Up so that they can grow with her and with your love as the years go by!

Preloved- Luxury Handbags

New to Padis are spectacular pre-owned luxury handbags including brands like Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and more. Not only is this a more affordable and sustainable way to shop for luxury handbags, but they’re also in great condition. We have a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes for whatever she’s had her eye on lately!

Thanks for reading our Mother’s Day gift guide from Padis Jewelry!

This list is our inspiration for your gift-giving but by no means features all the amazing options of necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, and more we have in-store and online. Please note our online inventory doesn’t feature everything we carry so there are tons more gifts to discover in-store.

Come and visit us at our Walnut Creek, San Francisco or Napa locations! We would love to meet you and talk about the special women in your life so we can pair each of them with a great gift that makes them feel celebrated this Mother’s Day. Make sure to ask about special pricing, flexible payment plans as well as interestfree financing.

From our family to yours, we wish your family a very happy Mother’s Day celebration!