Life + Culture

Wander Wisely

Expert Travel Tips for Families Craving Adventure and Comfort. Article by By Danielle Lederman | Photography by Provided By Danielle Lederman 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 easy-to-reach destinations, travel tips, accommodations, and trends to...

Wellness

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...

Health + Wellness

Calm Within the Storm

How to Stay Centered When Life Feels Overwhelming Article by Yuki Yoshii | Photography by James Brian Studios & Stock Photos 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...

Arts + Culture

Farmers Market Around Walnut Creek

Article by Laurel Kellam 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...

Beauty

Dermatologist-Approved Summer Skincare Tips

Summer Skin Health Q&A with Dr. Hayes Gladstone Article by Dr. Hayes Gladstone | Photography by Stock Photos 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...

Life + Culture

Beyond Fireworks

Local Veterans Reflect on Service, Family, and Freedom Article by Ryan Phillips | Photography by Justin Winokur and Provided Photos 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...

Arts + Culture

Fresh Look: The Symphony Exposed

Popular Summer Course Is Back Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle Editorial Team | Photography by 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...

Home + Design

A Transformation That Blends Comfort, Style, and Nature

The Outcome: A Stunning Backyard Oasis Article by Gordon Reese | Photography by Photos 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...

Health + Wellness

Shockwave Therapy Helped My Teen Athlete Recover from Shoulder Pain

Shockwave therapy delivers targeted pulses of acoustic energy to a specific area of the body. Article by Laurel Kellam | Photography by Laurel Kellam & Cortez Sports Media Pain is funny—not in a "haha" way, but in a "why does my child suddenly have the shoulder of a 90-year-old retired pitcher?" kind of way. My daughter, a 13-year-old volleyball player with Diablo Volleyball in Walnut Creek, found herself in just that predicament. A middle blocker with a strong serve, she could no longer raise...

Finance + Legal Services

Meet Michael Cardoza

Walnut Creek Attorney with Over 40 Years of Legal Experience Article by Crystal Long | Photography by Karen Henrich at Custom Moments Photography Michael Cardoza always knew he wanted to be a lawyer. With an innate passion for helping people, the San Francisco native translated his passion for aiding those in need into an extensive career in law spanning over 40 years.  “I have always had a strong desire to help people through the most difficult situations in their lives,” says Michael...