The Explore Issue
Hello Summer!
Summer is in full swing—school’s out, calendars are a little clear, and the long, golden days invite us to slow down and savor the season. Whether it’s a big vacation or a quiet afternoon in the backyard, this time of year feels like an open invitation to explore.
For my family, our summer tradition takes us to Pinecrest Lake, a small mountain lake town tucked into the Sierra Nevadas. It’s the trip my kids talk about all year long. There’s swimming, hiking, boat rides across the lake, and just enough ice cream and pickleball to make it feel like true summer. It’s the kind of trip that reminds me how refreshing it can be to unplug and just be present.
That spirit of discovery is exactly what we wanted to capture in this Explore issue. You’ll find inspiration for local adventures and destinations a bit farther from home, along with helpful articles on topics like protecting your skin during the summer months.
As we celebrate the 4th of July this month we’re also reminded that the freedom to explore—whether across the country or in our own communities—isn’t something to take for granted. We honor those who have served and sacrificed to protect the liberties we enjoy every day.
Wherever this summer takes you, we hope this issue helps spark a little curiosity, a little fun, and a lot of good memories.
Warmly,
LAUREL KELLAM, PUBLISHER @WALNUTCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Laurel Kellam | laurel.kellam@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Hemananthani Sivanandam hema.sivanandam@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
McKenzie Walleshauser mckenzie.walleshauser@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ryan Phillips, Samantha Durbin
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Justin Winokur
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
The Subaru Love Promise Subaru and Diablo Subaru of Walnut Creek believe in making a positive impact on the communities in which we live and work. Through the five core pillars - Environment, Health, Education, Pets and Community - we aim to create change in the areas we and our owners care about the most.
Hosting an onsite adoption with Joybound People & Pets to help shelter animals find their forever home.
In honor of Earth day, and with the help from Arbor Day Foundation, we will be gifting and planting 100 trees.
Partnering with AdoptAClassroom.Org to adopt 10 classrooms at Ygnacio Valley High School and donate 10 Classroom kits.
Working with Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley-Rocketship Futuro Academy to provide new high quality coats to children in need.
With the help from Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, we are bringing warmth and comfort to patients by donating blankets and care kits to aid during treatment.
Where Art Meets Senior
We ness
In The Heritage Downtown’s courtyard, a new mural by Bay Area artist Trenton Gregory brings nature to life: rolling hills, still waters, and painted skies. Known for his immersive works across California, Gregory created the piece to reflect the vitality of THD’s active senior community.
“The goal was to capture the feeling of paradise— right outside your window.”
— TRENTON GREGORY
With chef-led dining, enriching programs, and a vibrant community, The Heritage Downtown continues to redefine retirement living. Residents enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to wellness amenities, cultural activities, and personalized support. TheHeritageDowntown.com | (925) 943-7427
The Heritage Downtown Unveils a New Mural by Trenton Gregory
city scene
1-5: The community-based Painted Piano Project by the Walnut Creek Downtown Association is a unique art project designed to bring community members together while creating musical memories. Through generous donations and sponsorship from the downtown business community, the program provides artists with a new and exciting platform to share their talent. It also allows the public to experience music in downtown Walnut Creek. 6-10: The Locust Street Festival brought in an evening of fun, food, activities, and live music in Walnut Creek. Residents enjoyed walking down the street, grabbing a bite to eat, and shopping from artisan vendors at the street festival.
Photography by Walnut Creek Downtown Association/Craig Isaacs, BlueGoo Photography
wander wisely
Expert Travel Tips for Families Craving Adventure and Comfort.
Planning a family getaway that feels adventurous and effortless? Whether you're craving a luxe beach escape, a wellness reset, or a California dude ranch that feels like summer camp for all ages, travel advisor Danielle Lederman has you covered.
In this Q&A, she shares her favorite easyto-reach destinations, travel tips, accommodations, and trends to help you plan a stress-free vacation.
WHAT DESTINATIONS FEEL ADVENTUROUS—BUT AREN'T A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT FROM THE BAY AREA?
A: Punta de Mita is a hidden gem less than an hour from the Puerto Vallarta Airport, which has direct flights from the Bay Area. It's authentic and has incredible food, many activities, and gorgeous beaches. The One&Only Mandarina and Susurros Auberge are stunning properties with larger residences for families or big groups.
Kauai is another favorite. Beyond the fantastic beaches, there are endless outdoor adventures. I recently stayed at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and was blown away by the views and the food.
For a dude ranch experience in California, Alisal Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley is a true gem. Horseback riding, golf, tennis, archery, bingo, fishing - it's like summer camp for the whole family.
ARTICLE BY BY DANIELLE LEDERMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY
DANIELLE LEDERMAN
WHAT TRAVEL TRENDS ARE YOU LOVING RIGHT NOW?
A: I love a good wellness retreat. The Ranch Malibu is one I highly recommend: weeklong programs focused on hiking, strength training, yoga, daily massages, and organic meals. You can even book the entire property for a weekend reset. Canyon Ranch Woodside is also high on my bucket list and is just over an hour's drive from the East Bay. I also love the shift toward sustainable travel—visiting lesser-known destinations, traveling off-peak, and supporting local artisans, hotels, and restaurants.
WHAT DOES LUXURY MEAN TO YOU WHEN IT COMES TO VACATION?
A: For me, luxury is feeling truly relaxed on vacation. It's showing up at a restaurant and knowing your table is ready, finding a lounge chair by the pool without having to search, and experiencing service that anticipates what you need before you even realize you need it.
I also love it when a hotel reflects a strong sense of place. At Stanly Ranch in Napa, you're welcomed with a glass of local wine, and turndown service includes housemade honey. At The Estate Yountville, breakfast features Model Bakery English muffins.
HOW DO YOU STAY HEALTHY WHILE TRAVELING?
A: I like to start the day with a long walk to explore side streets and neighborhoods—it's the best way to get a feel for a new destination. I also try to add movements each day—whether it's yoga, tennis, or a game of pickleball. For long-haul flights, I always bring snacks and wear compression socks. And I swear by two essentials: greens powder in the morning and magnesium at night.
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE FOR COUPLES OR FAMILIES PLANNING SUMMER TRIPS?
A: Book early! The earlier you reserve, the better the rates and room options. I always recommend choosing refundable rates. If prices drop later, I can rebook at a lower rate.
“I like to start the day with a long walk to explore side streets and neighborhoods—it’s the best way to get a feel for a new destination.”
HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS TRAVEL SMARTER?
A: As a travel advisor, it's my job to know the ins and outs of resorts and destinations all over the world. That includes which resorts have the best kids' clubs, which rooms have the best views, the must-visit restaurants, and what experiences are worth your time.
I also have access to exclusive perks—like complimentary breakfast and resort credits—that aren't available when booking directly. Many assume working with a travel advisor costs more, while in reality, my clients often save money and get more value.
Danielle Lederman is the owner and lead travel advisor at La Fête Travel Co. She's a Virtuoso advisor, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, and certified with Lindblad Expeditions, Viking Cruises and Backroads. You can reach her at danielle.lederman@fora.travel
Photograph by Jessica Brydson Photography
BEYOND fireworks
As Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and family festivities, many men and women in uniform spend the holiday separated from their loved ones. When they return home, many bring a perspective few will ever know.
Walnut Creek City Lifestyle spoke to four local veterans about what Independence Day means to them.
KYLE WELLS
When Kyle Wells was deployed in Afghanistan, Independence Day was celebrated with camaraderie and pride, despite being far from home. Kyle is in his 20th year in the military and now serves as a pararescue specialist in the Air National Guard, having completed five tours of duty in Afghanistan.
Pararescue specialists have a significant and very stressful job: rescuing injured soldiers from the battlefield. “When we’re going out on a mission, we’re going to save someone’s life,” he says. “Anytime you can successfully accomplish that, it’s a huge reward.”
The joy of making it back safely, especially on a day like the 4th of July, was worth celebrating.
“It’s fun, and we would definitely go as big as we could with our limited resources,” says Kyle, who is one of the owners of Luna Sea Lounge in Walnut Creek.
Local Veterans Reflect on Service, Family, and Freedom
ARTICLE BY RYAN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN WINOKUR AND PROVIDED PHOTOS
Gary and Luke Luchini. Here, Luke is holding photos of Gary's uncles and mother.
Kyle Wells
But being at war also gave the holiday new gravity.
“It’s not something a lot of people get to experience, and it’s a sobering reminder of all the sacrifices a lot of young men and women have made over the years for our country," says Kyle.
RAUL MENDEZ
As an Air Force pilot in the late 1970s and early 1980s, July 4th often passed high above the Pacific Ocean.
“Sometimes you are out there for 15-18 hours, so sometimes you leave on (July 3rd), and by the time you get there, it’s the fifth,” he said. “We were all very proud to be American, but didn’t really get to celebrate much.”
Raul flew all over during his service, often from California to Hawaii, the Philippines, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Fiji, and even Antarctica. “We didn’t get off the airplane,” Raul said of flying supplies to the South Pole. “We kept the engines running. You really didn’t want to get stuck down there.”
After retiring from the Air Force, Raul worked as a commercial pilot for Pan Am Airlines and now runs Avida Home Care, a company he founded based in Lafayette.
These days, Raul celebrates the 4th of July by barbecuing with friends and fellow veterans, feeling proud to see the American flag, and watching the fireworks on Independence Day.
“I’m very grateful for where I come from, what I represent, and what my country represents,” he said.
GARY AND LUKE LUCHINI
For this father-son duo, military service isn’t just part of their past; it’s a shared family legacy that has shaped their lives and deepened their appreciation for sacrifice and patriotism.
Gary joined the U.S. Navy fresh out of high school in Oakland in 1961. He served aboard the USS Hancock, an aircraft carrier stationed in Alameda. The USS Hancock had seen its own share of war, having been struck by a kamikaze attack during WWII. The ship’s history piqued Gary’s interest in military history.
“I got interested in all branches (of the military), but I started out as a Naval historian,” he said.
Gary left the service in 1964, the same year the U.S. sent thousands of troops to Vietnam.
“My timing was good in that regard,” he said.
After his service, Gary went to college, studied diesel mechanics, and oversaw the vehicle fleet in Berkeley for 30 years.
For Gary, the Fourth of July isn’t just about fireworks and celebration. “It’s more about reflection,” he said. “I feel very reverent for all the young people who were killed in wars.”
Military service runs deep in the Luchini family.
Two of Gary's uncles, Harold Moyer and William Wallace Moyer, served in the military, and his mother, Genevieve Wiemers, was a nurse. Gary is also proud that his two sons, Gregory and Luke, joined military service. Gregory served in the Marines while Luke enlisted in the Navy in 2006.
“You do a lot of growing up in the service. It really gives a lot of people a sense of purpose,” said Gary.
Luke was first stationed at Pearl Harbor. For Luke, walking beside survivors of the 1941 attack during commemorations was unforgettable.
“I got to walk down with some of the survivors and watch them touch their friends’ names on the memorial,” he said. “I’ll never forget that.”
Luke went on to serve in Iraq as part of a Navy provisional detainee battalion at Camp Bucca, once the world’s largest internment facility. “It was a unique experience,” he said, recalling his time working in maximum security, where some high-profile detainees were held.
Now, as the Regional Training Coordinator for Inter-Con Security, Luke credits the military for preparing him for his career.
“I got to see habits from good leaders, and I also got to see bad habits,” he said. He often reminds himself on challenging days: “Hey, I made it through Iraq.”
Like his father, Luke’s perspective on the 4th of July has deepened. “Before I served, I just enjoyed the festivities and time off,” he said. “Now, I take a moment to thank those and remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.”
Kyle during a High Altitude Low Opening parachute jump in the Middle East in 2011
Kyle during a High Altitude Low Opening parachute training mission the Middle East in 2011
Luke Luchini
Luke Luchini
Raul Mendez
Gary Luchini during his years in the U.S. Navy.
Gary Luchini
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MUD MAGIC
A MOM’S 24-HOUR HEALING ESCAPE IN CALISTOGA
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY STOCK PHOTOS
My first solo escape to Calistoga was when my son was three. I needed a break from mom life and wanted to go somewhere healing that wasn't a far drive, low-key, quiet, and luxurious. I decided on a night at Indian Springs.
As I rode around the grounds on one of their cruisers, memories from years before becoming a mother and attending a bachelorette weekend in Calistoga came back to me. We'd stayed at Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs (before their fabulous revamp), where the girls and I swam, wined, and danced in our room into the late night. I was giddy and thirty. Now, I'm grateful in my forties.
Over the years, I'd go to Calistoga with whoever would join me. I'd stay at Golden Haven or Calistoga Motor Lodge. On the way, I stopped at wineries and tried restaurants in Yountville and St. Helena. As a mother of two, every minute I get to reset is precious, I no longer feel mom guilt about restoring my health and leaving my kids for self-care—the better I feel, the better I can show up for my kids.
And Calistoga keeps calling. This time, I invited my sister-in-law, Cara, another working mother of two. She hadn't spent a night away from her youngest yet, and I was happy to help her get a much-needed break.
In addition to being a healing vortex where hot springs pump through nearly every faucet, Calistoga is sublime during any season. It's just a different vibe. We went on a rainy Saturday afternoon but didn't care; swimming in warm geothermal water in the rain is immensely cleansing.
We stayed at the family-owned Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort. We got into the room a couple of hours earlier than the 3 p.m. check-in, which was appreciated since I had a CBD massage scheduled, and Cara was happy to take a quiet stroll. My massage at the Baths at Roman Spa was a blissful 45 minutes that melted away any tension I'd had from the drive up. I met Cara in our room, where we ate take-out Thai in our kitchenette.
CONTINUED >
I booked the 'Couples and Friends' mud bath experience at Golden Haven, about a two-minute drive from the resort, because I always liked their A-frame indoor/outdoor pool, where you can swim before and after treatments. This is usually the case with Calistoga resorts. The Golden Haven pool area has two hot tubs, one 98-100 and the other 101-104. The ultimate pool is at Indian Springs, where their Olympic-sized mineral pool is one of the largest pools in California. If you're a hot tub type, the adults-only tub at Dr. Wilkinson's with waterfall cooling showers is the place to be for an evening dip before bed.
Mud bath time
Cara and I were led to a steaming private room with an L-shaped bathtub. We were instructed on how to enter our double tub filled with detoxifying brown mud safely. Our attendant applied clay face masks and cold washcloths to our foreheads. I played like a child, plopping the mud over my stomach and wiggling my toes in the sludge.
The temperature was warm, and when I really started to feel the heat, our attendant returned and told us to rinse off in the showers. Then, because we'd chosen the 'Rosy Coconut Bath' upgrade, we had a cooling bath in a bubbling purple cauldron. We soaked in serenity while drinking spa water.
In the last step of our mud experience, we entered a zen room illuminated by salt lamps. We lay down on massage tables. The attendant tucked us under lightweight blankets and placed cucumber slices over our eyes. My body was buzzing, my mind quiet; I could have fallen asleep.
After more swimming and hot tubbing, we changed clothes and walked to the nearest restaurant for dinner. No joke, the closest restaurant was named after my daughter, Evangeline. A French bistro with a Creole soul, Evangeline has a pretty outside seating area, but we opted for a corner table inside for its coziness. We were famished, so we split the beet salad, and both had
Evangeline burgers. After dinner, we returned to the room, where we curled up in our queen-sized beds and watched Pitch Perfect 3 before falling asleep. It's the simple things.
Cara slept in the following day while I lazed around, texting with an old friend. It was still raining outside, my bed was a cloud, and my body was ache-free. We indulged in a slow pace. We went out for breakfast at Cafe Sarafornia, a quick walk around the corner. It had been forever since we'd been out for breakfast without wrangling little humans. We popped into the Mad Mod Shop and Robindira Unsworth for some browsing. We packed and returned to reality after one last soak in Roman Spa's hot tub.
WHERE TO:
Eat:
• Cafe Sarafornia
• Calistoga Depot
• Calistoga Thai Kitchen
• Evangeline
• House of Better
• Lovina
• Sam's Social Club
• Solbar
• Sushi Mambo
Shop:
• Terra
• Copperfield's Books
• Field Trip
• Mad Mod Shop
• Picayune Cellars & Mercantile
• Robindira Unsworth
• Rove Boutique
• Sugar Daddy's Consignment
• West of Poppy
Samantha and Cara enjoying a mud bath at Golden Haven.
marketing materials. The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for
ARTICLE BY DR. HAYES GLADSTONE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STOCK PHOTOS
DERMATOLOGISTAPPROVED SUMMER Skincare Tips
Summer may bring sunshine and beach days, but it also presents unique challenges for your skin. From increased sun exposure and dehydration, your skin needs extra attention during the warmer months. In this Q&A, we spoke with Dr. Hayes Gladstone, a board-certified dermatologist, for expert advice on protecting your skin.
HOW DO I PROTECT MYSELF FROM THE SUN DURING SUMMER?
A: Wearing sun-protective clothing provides the best defense against the sun. Specific sun-protective clothing lines usually provide above 50 SPF coverage and are generally very lightweight, comfortable, and elegant.
SHOULD I HAVE ANY SUN EXPOSURE?
A: Yes. While the sun is the major cause of skin cancer, it is also very beneficial in synthesizing Vitamin D, which is important in our immune system. The key is being exposed to the sun in moderation, generally not between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
WHAT ARE THE BEST SUNSCREENS?
A: The best sunscreens are actually sunblocks. They contain either zinc, which protects against the widest range of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, or titanium dioxide. They come in creams or powders. Most higher-end sunblocks are micronized
While the SPF is important, reapplying the sunblock after a few hours is very important.
and have tints, meaning that they will not create the old “lifeguard look.” They are also safe for coral. While the SPF is important, reapplying the sunblock after a few hours is very important.
WHAT TYPE OF SKIN CARE REGIMEN SHOULD I USE?
A: Aside from sunblock, I simplify skin care regimens by recommending a moisturizer, a vitamin A derivative cream such as tretinoin, and an antioxidant cream. The skin is the body’s largest organ and the only one exposed to harsh environments. A moisturizer can help keep your skin supple, temporarily hydrate, and thicken. Vitamin A topicals can help reduce skin aging, such as fine lines. Antioxidant topicals may act as scavengers to go after oxygen-free radicals that can damage the skin. Choosing a moisturizer can be trial-and-error based on how dry your skin is. It has to feel good on your skin, or you will not use it. While Tretinoin prescription can dry out your skin and make your skin sensitive (you should be wearing sunblock), it has different strengths and can be initially used a couple of times per week at night. Topical antioxidants are applied once per day, usually in the morning.
DO THE FOODS I EAT AFFECT MY SKIN?
A: Yes, there is increasing evidence that eating foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, will help reduce free oxygen radicals, which can damage the skin. Drinking water will help hydrate your skin and keep it more supple. Eating highly refined foods, including sugar, may increase inflammation, which, similar to its effect on other organs, can be harmful to the skin.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT SKIN CANCER FURTHER?
A: Having a board certified dermatologist perform a thorough skin check annually will help reduce the risk of skin cancer or at least catch it very early. While there are AI apps that may help flag suspicious lesions, it is still best to go to an expert to examine your skin. A spot that is scabbing, bleeding, doesn’t go away or comes and go should be examined. Similarly, a mole that is changing should be examined. There are also adjunct treatments covered by insurance, such as photodynamic therapy, that can reduce the number of precancers, which also may reduce the risk of actual skin cancer.
I TAN ALL THE TIME. AM I REALLY AT RISK FOR SKIN CANCER?
A: Yes. Individuals who tan all the time or people of color are still at risk for skin cancer. It is important to have your skin checked since sometimes these skin cancers may go unnoticed and be diagnosed when they are more advanced.
Dr. Hayes Gladstone
Board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Hayes Gladstone is double board-certified in Dermatology and Mohs reconstructive surgery. The Gladstone Clinic offers comprehensive skin cancer care and rejuvenation techniques to empower you to look your best. The clinic has locations near Rossmoor in Walnut Creek, in the Blackhawk section of Danville, and in Manteca. Call 925-837-6000 for an appointment. Cosmetic consultations are complimentary.
SCOTT FOGLESONG
fresh look: the symphony exposed
Popular Summer Course Is Back
ARTICLE BY WALNUT CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE
EDITORIAL TEAM | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CALIFORNIA SYMPHONY
This July, California Symphony is bringing back Fresh Look: The Symphony Exposed , a four-part lecture series designed to make classical music approachable and enjoyable for adults curious about the genre. The classes take place every Thursday, July 10, 17, 24, and 31, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center (233 Gregory Lane). The series welcomes newcomers and music lovers alike.
Led by acclaimed music educator Scott Foglesong, the course explores the orchestra’s instruments, musical periods, and styles, including a dedicated class on Beethoven. During the last class, there will be a live performance and Q&A with California Symphony musicians. The $30 course fee can be applied to any adult ticket for the Symphony’s 2025–26 season.
Since its 2018 debut in partnership with the Walnut Creek Library, Fresh Look has seen surging interest. Last year’s series reached capacity with 160 attendees, prompting this year’s new venue at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center.
Created by Scott, California Symphony’s Music Director Donato Cabrera, and General Manager Sunshine Deffner, the program underscores the Symphony’s ongoing commitment to music education and community engagement across all age groups and experience levels. Learn more at www.californiasymphony.org/shows/ fresh-look-the-symphony-exposed
New Office in Walnut Creek - Rossmoor Area
Medical, Surgical, Cosmetic Dermatology | Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Mohs Surgery & Reconstruction | Non Surgical Skin Cancer Treatment G Lift (mini facelift) | Eyelid Lifts | Neck and Body Liposuction | Advanced Skin Tightening | NonInvasive Body Contouring | Lasers for Wrinkles | Lasers for Red & Dark Spots Acne Scar Treatment | Injectables | Liquid Facelift | Botox & Dysport | Advanced Laser Hair Removal
Dr. Hayes B. Gladstone, MD
Double Board Certified, Dermatology/ Dermatologic Surgery
Fellowship Trained, Cosmetic Surgery
Former Director/Professor, Dermatologic Surgery Stanford University
Dr. Daniel Wall, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Medical, Surgical, Cosmetic Dermatology San Francisco Giants Dermatologist Jaclyn Ballin, PA-C
Certified Dermatology
Physician Assistant
CALM within THE STORM
You wake up already behind schedule, your to-do list grows faster than it shrinks, and even downtime feels rushed. Sound familiar? Does it feel like your life is moving at double speed—with too much to do and not enough time to do it all? If so, you’re not alone. Many people feel overwhelmed by the constant demands of life. Responsibilities pile up, and it can seem like there’s no space to breathe.
Here are three key perspectives that can help you feel calm, even amid a hectic world.
1. DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE OUTER EVENT AND INNER EXPERIENCE
Many believe that what happens around us directly determines how we feel inside. But when we take a closer look at how perception works, we begin to realize this isn’t entirely accurate. Imagine the Dalai Lama living your life. Would he feel reactive or overwhelmed in your shoes? Most would agree—he wouldn’t. Why? Because he would perceive the same events through a different lens. Your inner experience isn’t dictated by the outer event. Your interpretation, mindset and level of awareness shape it. Once you see that outer events don’t control your inner state, the next step is to examine the deeper lens through which you experience life—your identity.
2. RECOGNIZE YOUR DEFAULT IDENTITY AND CHOOSE A NEW ONE
Your identity is the way you define yourself internally. This self-concept acts like a mirror, reflecting itself into your outer reality. If your life
feels frustrating or chaotic, it may not be because it is overwhelming, but because you identify as someone who “always feels overwhelmed” or says, “My life is just hectic.” That identity filters your entire experience. Start by identifying your default identity, then begin to shape a new one consciously, perhaps as someone who is calm, grounded, and centered. Remember: your personality creates your reality, and your reality is simply what feels real to you.
ARTICLE BY YUKI YOSHII PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES BRIAN
STUDIOS & STOCK
PHOTOS
How to Stay Centered When Life Feels Overwhelming
3. SHIFT HOW YOU RELATE TO TIME
For many, the feeling of busyness stems from how they perceive time. While most people know the importance of living in the present moment, few realize that the present isn’t just a fleeting dot on a clock. Our rational mind sees time linearly: hours, minutes, and seconds ticking by. But the present moment isn’t a narrow sliver of time—it’s a continuous, unfolding experience. It’s always now. As you learn to live from this deeper sense of presence, the pressure of “not enough time” naturally fades. You begin to experience life not as a rush but as a steady, unfolding flow. Life may not slow down, but your experience can become more spacious and calm. You can’t always control what happens, but you can always shift your perspective. Which of these perspectives will you explore today?
Yuki
Yuki helps people live the life they truly desire by guiding them to shift their thoughts, beliefs, and subconscious conditioning. Drawing on over two decades of deep spiritual exploration, he bridges the worlds of spirituality, personal development, holistic health, and mindfulness. A former professional dancer turned transformational guide, Yuki supports others in embodying awakening through the practice of self-realization. He previously worked as a consultant for renowned thought leader Bob Proctor and is the author of Soul Purpose Insights. He also holds a master’s degree in Holistic Health Education, specializing in consciousness and somatic psychology. Visit Satori-mindset.com/
Photo by James Brian Studios
A TRANSFORMATION THAT BLENDS comfort, style, and nature
The Outcome: A Stunning Backyard Oasis
ARTICLE BY GORDON REESE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GORDON REESE DESIGN BUILD
In a picturesque setting overlooking expansive open space and vibrant wildlife, a Walnut Creek family dreamed of a backyard that would capture panoramic views with stunning bay windows, a year-round weatherproof outdoor entertainment area, and functional and aesthetic touches. Thanks to Gordon Reese Design Build, that vision became a reality.
The redesigned outdoor entertainment area blended functionality and luxury. Equipped with a heating system for cool evenings, ceiling fans for hot days, and a sophisticated misting system for added comfort during warmer seasons, it ensures year-round enjoyment. An integrated outdoor kitchen enhances the space, featuring top-tier appliances and ample workspace for culinary delights and social gatherings.
To harmonize with the natural surroundings, the project replaced an existing exposed aggregate concrete patio with a spacious paver area. Curved landscaping borders seamlessly integrate with the environment, creating a cohesive and visually appealing outdoor retreat.
For more inspiration and ideas, visit: GordonReese.com
Soak Up Serenity
FARMERS MARKET Around Walnut Creek
CONCORD
Todos Santos Plaza Farmers' Market
Address: 2175 Willow Pass Rd, Concord, CA 94520
Hours:
Tuesday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Thursday 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Till Sept. 25, 2025)
A lively downtown market featuring fresh produce, handmade goods, and local food vendors in a bustling plaza setting.
DANVILLE
Danville Farmers' Market
Address: 205 Railroad Ave & Prospect Ave, Danville, CA 94526
Hours: Saturday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
A charming weekly event offering fresh fruits, flowers, baked goods, and more from regional producers.
MARTINEZ
Martinez Farmers' Market
Address: 700 Main St, Martinez, CA 94553
Hours: Sunday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
This historic downtown market is a community favorite with local farms, artisans, and a relaxed atmosphere.
ARTICLE BY LAUREL KELLAM
MORAGA
Moraga Farmers' Market
Address: Moraga Center, Moraga Rd & Moraga Way, Moraga, CA 94556
Hours: Sunday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Offers a strong selection of organic produce, farm goods, and prepared foods in a laid-back suburban setting.
ORINDA
Orinda Farmers' Market
Address: Orinda Community Park, 22 Orinda Way, Orinda, CA 94563
Hours: Saturday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
A low-key, friendly market perfect for picking up local produce, flowers, and artisanal treats.
SAN RAMON
San Ramon Farmers' Market
Address: City Center Bishop Ranch, 6000 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon, CA 94583
Hours: Saturday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
A large, curated market with a wide array of organic produce, specialty foods, and seasonal finds.
WALNUT CREEK
Diablo Valley Farmers' Market at Shadelands
Address: Mitchell Dr & N Wiget Ln, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Hours: Saturday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
A popular local destination offering premium produce and gourmet items in an easy-access location.
Kaiser Medical Center Farmers' Market
Address: 1425 S Main St, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Hours: Wednesday 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Perfect for midweek shoppers, featuring locally grown fruits, veggies, and quick, healthy bites.
Walnut Creek Downtown Farmers' Market
Address: North Locust St between Cole & Lacassie, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Hours: Sunday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
An energetic market downtown with produce, prepared foods, local goods, and a vibrant street scene.
Rossmoor Farmers' Market (Rossmoor residents only)
Address: Golden Rain Rd & Tice Creek Dr, Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Hours: Friday 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
(seasonal: May–October)
A private market for Rossmoor residents, offering curated seasonal produce, baked goods, and more.
RESERVATIONS
JULY 16TH
Locust Street Festival
Locust Street (between Mt. Diablo Blvd and Bonanza St., and Bonanza St. to Civic Drive) and Cypress Street (between N. California Blvd. and Commercial Lane) | 5:30 PM
Don’t miss the best summer block party around: the Locust Street Festival, a lively street festival series (formerly First Wednesdays) in downtown Walnut Creek! Enjoy live music, family entertainment, local restaurants and food trucks, craft beer and wine, and handmade goods from local artisans. Admission is free, and fun is guaranteed! Visit www.walnutcreekdowntown.com for details.
JULY 17TH
Summer Sounds Concert
Series Presents: Tom Rigney and Flambeau
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, | 5:30 PM
Bask in the sun with free outdoor concerts at the Lesher Center for the Arts. Enjoy a powerhouse roots band serving grooves, sharp solos, and pure musical joy!
JULY 31ST
Summer Concert Series
Featuring Swift Nation
Broadway Plaza, 1275 Broadway Plz, Walnut Creek | 7:00 PM
If you love Taylor Swift, you will enjoy the concert by Swift Nation, which recreates melodies from Swift's early albums to her chart-topping hits.
LIVE WHERE YOU LOVE
