Health + Wellness

Speaking Their Language

A local life coach focuses on helping people in her own generation Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Lorie Smith As a teenager in El Dorado Hills, Ariel Sonenstein faced typical teen issues: self-doubt and uncertainty, academic and social pressures, and challenges with time-management amid high academic expectations. Add to that a medical concern that sent her to the hospital numerous times within a two-year stretch, and she found herself struggling with her mental health. “I carried...

Wellness

Winter at the Beach

Explore Santa Cruz County’s coastline where elephant seals gather, forests flourish, and adventure meets natural wonder Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Visit Santa Cruz County The elephant seal bulls arrive on the beach first. They head-butt each other with bulbous, trunkish noses (it’s called a proboscis) and bash cornified chests together, grunting and roaring. They all want to be in prime position when the elephant seal cows show up. When the females pull ashore, they head right...

Health + Wellness

The Benefits of Plant-Based Eating

Fuel your body with fruits and veggies for a healthier lifestyle Article by Claudia Martin-Ayoade | Photography by Photography Janie Jones Most people think a plant-based diet is strictly for those vegan and vegetarian types, but there is no debating the overwhelming evidence showing the benefits of improved health for those who make that diet choice. Plant-based eating is more of a lifestyle than a diet—you are simply eating more foods that are closer to their harvested state with minimal...

Entertainment

An EDH Tradition: Making a Difference

EDH Fire Department hosts the annual Santa Run which captivates this generous community Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Nick Sharples At the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, they look forward to the Santa Run all year long. Between the planning, the staffing, deciding who’s going to play the Grinch, and more, the EDH Fire Department really gets into the Santa Run fun; they’re also deeply touched by the community’s giving spirit. Last year, the event garnered 6,200 toys and more than...

Life + Culture

From Broadcast to Brushstrokes

Exploring light, shadow, and everyday beauty with EDH-based artist Robert N. Anderson Article by Kristy Murdoch | Photography by Robert N. Anderson From Broadcast to Brushstrokes Exploring light, shadow, and everyday beauty with EDH-based artist Robert N. Anderson Robert N. Anderson’s journey as an artist has been anything but traditional. After a four-decade career in television, including a position as general manager of a San Francisco TV station, he found his way back to his first...

Local Services

Capturing Magic

Photographer Charlene Taylor describes what’s beautiful about The Santa Experience Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Charlene Taylor of Charm/SmackDab Studio Local photographer and cinematographer Charlene Taylor, of Charm Photography and SmackDab Studio, has created a special hour-long photo session that brings families into the wonder of the holidays and provides an artistic keepsake they’ll always treasure. We caught up with her to find out more about The Santa Experience. Let’s...

Travel

Holidays in the Foothills

Two beloved events along Highway 49 in Nevada County provide a ready reason for a festive mini-getaway Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Nevada City Chamber & Kat Alves On a crisp late-fall evening, when it’s dark by 4:30 p.m., the greenery-wrapped lamplights glow against historic buildings on downtown Nevada City’s Broad Street. Well-bundled revelers—some dressed in Victorian-era attire—wander among outdoor booths, nibbling roasted chestnuts and shopping for gifts made by local...

Food + Beverage

Delightful DIY Jars

Homemade gift ideas sure to impress the party host Article by How-To by Catherine Baer | Photography by Kristy Murdoch The holiday season is here, bringing with it a full calendar of parties, gatherings, and festive celebrations. While a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers is always an appreciated thank-you gift, why not surprise your host with something more personal this year? These food- and drink-inspired layered jar creations are simple to make, fun to customize, and sure to be enjoyed...

Life + Culture

Digital Detox for Gratitude

Practical ways to unplug and rediscover joy in everyday moments Photography by Murdoch Media Group In today’s world, phones buzz, notifications ping, and social media scrolls never seem to end. While technology keeps us connected, it can also distract us from the very moments that make life meaningful. A little intentional unplugging can help shift our focus back to gratitude, connection, and presence. The good news? It doesn’t take a total digital detox—just small, mindful changes. Even just...

Life + Culture

Still Serving

El Dorado Hills Military Veterans Group serves the entire community Article by Krista Minard When Steven Gutierrez moved to El Dorado Hills in 2016, he discovered something missing in his beautiful new community: a strong local group that brought military service members together. He served for 36 years in the U.S. Marines and the U.S. Army, on active duty and in the reserves, and he saw a need for a strong veterans network. So he started one. “The goal was to create camaraderie, provide a...