Finding Joy Close to Home: Enjoy November in Walnut Creek

Finding Joy Close to Home: Our Favorite Ways to Enjoy November in Walnut Creek

Sometimes the best things about where we live are the little things we enjoy every day.

November is one of my favorite times of year in Walnut Creek.

The mornings are cooler, the trees are showing off their fall colors, and the holiday season is just around the corner. It's a good time to slow down, appreciate what we have, and enjoy some of the things that make this community such a wonderful place to call home.

Dianne and I have lived in Walnut Creek for years, and while we love exploring new places, some of our favorite experiences are practically in our own backyard.

Here are a few things we're especially grateful for this season.

A Walk Through Shell Ridge

We're fortunate to have Shell Ridge Open Space practically behind our house, and it's one of our favorite places to get outside.

There's something about walking the trails, enjoying the changing landscape, and taking in those beautiful views of Mt. Diablo that puts everything into perspective.

Whether we're out for a brisk morning walk or simply enjoying some fresh air, it's a reminder that some of life's best amenities don't come with a price tag.

A Little Something Sweet Downtown

We have a weakness for good ice cream and gelato, and Tifa Chocolate & Gelato in downtown Walnut Creek is one of our favorite stops.

It's the perfect excuse to take a stroll downtown, enjoy the shops, and treat ourselves to something delicious.

And really, who says gelato is just for summer?

Fall Colors, a Convertible, and Frank

One of our favorite simple pleasures is taking the convertible out for a drive when the leaves begin changing.

Walnut Creek and the surrounding East Bay neighborhoods are especially beautiful this time of year, with tree-lined streets and bursts of autumn color around nearly every corner.

Of course, our little Shih Tzu, Frank, is part of the adventure. He loves being included, and a leisurely drive with Dianne, Frank, and the top down is a pretty great way to spend an afternoon.

Sometimes we don't even need a destination. The drive itself is the fun.

Warriors Basketball and a Cozy Night at Home

As the evenings get cooler, we're just as happy staying in.

A Golden State Warriors game, something good to eat, and a comfortable spot on the sofa make for a pretty enjoyable night.

Not every memorable evening requires reservations or elaborate plans. Sometimes it's simply being home, enjoying a game, and spending time together.

And speaking of something good to eat...

From Our Kitchen: Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins

Dianne loves baking, especially this time of year. Her homemade blackberry streusel pies are a holiday tradition, and we'll share more about those soon.

But another favorite in our household is a batch of gluten-free pumpkin muffins.

They're easy to make, wonderfully moist, and perfect on a cool November morning.

Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins

Ingredients

• 1¾ cups gluten-free 1:1 baking flour (with xanthan gum)

• 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ⅓ cup maple syrup

• ⅓ cup neutral oil or melted butter

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

• ½ teaspoon salt

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Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, oil, milk, and vanilla.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.

4. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

5. Divide the batter among the muffin cups and bake for 20–24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Let cool for a few minutes before enjoying.

Optional: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a little something extra.

The Best Things About Home

Working in real estate gives me the opportunity to see some beautiful properties. But after all these years, I've learned that what makes a home special isn't necessarily its size, price, or impressive features.

It's the life we build there.

It's the familiar walking trail, the neighborhood gathering spots, the favorite recipes, the family traditions, and the people (and pets!) we share them with.

As Thanksgiving approaches, Dianne and I are especially grateful for our family, friends, neighbors, and the wonderful clients who have become part of our lives.

Thank you for your friendship, your trust, and for helping make Walnut Creek such a special place to call home.

Here's to a season filled with gratitude, good company, and the simple joys of being home.

Happy Thanksgiving!

— Doug Gamblin