As the warm days of summer give way to the crisp air of fall, life in Manhattan Beach takes on a new rhythm for Esmeralda Gallemore. For a businesswoman, mother, and entrepreneur, this seasonal shift brings a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. Balancing a thriving career with the demands of motherhood, all while focusing on family and remembering the importance of cultural roots, requires adaptability and intention.  It’s the perfect time to reflect on both personal and professional goals, embracing the transition with a fresh perspective on growth, success, and the art of balancing it all while staying connected to what matters most.

As fall encroaches upon us we are reminded of the traditions that come with the changing of seasons.  The air cools down, trees radiate orange and red leaves, and our lives and our families begin to get cozy.  As a proud Mexican-American immigrant, this is one of Esmeralda’s favorite times of year.  The beginning of fall marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month!  It is important to her to acknowledge and remember the traditions and festivities that ancestors curated, as well as put our best foot forward in paying homage, enjoying the celebrations of life, and preserving the culture.

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, is a vibrant celebration of the rich history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States.  In Los Angeles, where over 48% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, the significance of this month is deeply personal and resonates throughout the city, especially for Esmeralda.

For many Angelenos, especially those of Mexican descent, this time honors their ancestors’ struggles and achievements, while also highlighting the modern-day impact of Hispanic culture.  Mexican family values like unity, respect for elders, and strong community ties play a central role in shaping the social fabric of Los Angeles, influencing everything from the city’s food scene to its music and arts.  Esmeralda took many of these values from her family and childhood and used them to become the influential entrepreneur she is today.  She is especially excited for this year’s festivities!

Traditions such as Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and Las Posadas reflect the importance of family and faith in Mexican culture, and these celebrations, deeply rooted in history, are embraced by the broader Los Angeles community.

Hispanic Heritage Month is more than just a cultural acknowledgment—it is a chance for everyone, regardless of background, to join in the festivities.

From mariachi performances and folkloric dances in historic Olvera Street to the many Mexican food festivals that pop up throughout the month, there are countless ways to celebrate. Events like the East LA Mexican Independence Day Parade and the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes offer immersive experiences for all, highlighting Mexican art, music, and traditional cuisine. This time of year provides a unique glimpse into the warmth and closeness that characterize Mexican homes. Hispanic Heritage Month in Los Angeles not only honors tradition but invites everyone to experience the joy.  Esmeralda has a few recipes for you to try out yourself!

Pan de Muerto: Pan de Muerto is a traditional bread for Día de los Muertos, often shaped like bones.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 egg

To make:

Activate Yeast: Heat milk to about 110°F (43°C), then dissolve the yeast in it. Let sit for 5 minutes.

Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Add in the yeast mixture, egg, and butter. Knead until smooth.

Let Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Shape and Bake: Shape the dough into round loaves, add bone-like

decorations with extra dough, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.

Calabaza en Tacha: This is a sweet, traditional Mexican dessert made with pumpkin.

Ingredients:

• 1 small pumpkin, cut into wedges
• 1 cup brown sugar (or piloncillo if available)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 cups water
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

To make:

Simmer: In a large pot, combine the pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, water, and orange slices.

Cook: Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 1–1.5 hours, until the pumpkin is tender and caramelized.

Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature.

Chipotle Chicken and Butternut Squash Skillet: A savory and slightly spicy dish that combines tender chicken with roasted butternut squash and smoky chipotle flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to your spice level), chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 lime (juiced)

To make:

Roast Butternut Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until tender.

Cook Chicken: While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.

Add Chipotle: Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers and lime juice. Let theflavors combine for a couple of minutes.

Combine: Once the butternut squash is done, add it to the skillet with the chicken. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning if necessary. This dish is great served as is or over rice, and the chipotle gives it a nice fall warmth!

Esmeralda hopes these recipes warm you up and help you enjoy the festivities!  As the seasons change, particularly from summer to fall and then into winter, our bodies face various challenges. The cooler temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and fluctuating humidity levels can weaken our immune systems and make us more susceptible to illness.  To stay healthy during this transition, it’s crucial to adopt certain habits that promote overall wellness. Simple lifestyle adjustments, such as dressing appropriately for the weather, staying active, and maintaining proper hydration, can make a big difference in how your body responds to seasonal changes. Moreover, prioritizing rest and managing stress are essential, as stress can compromise the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.

Simple Immune-Boosting Recipes:

Here are four simple, nutrient-dense recipes to help support your immune system during the colder months:

1. Golden Turmeric Latte

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

A pinch of black pepper Heat the almond milk in a small saucepan. Whisk in the turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. Sweeten with honey if desired. Serve warm.

3. Vitamin C Smoothie

• 1 orange, peeled
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup spinach
• 1 tbsp chia seeds

1 cup water or coconut water Blend all ingredients until smooth. This refreshing smoothie is packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants.

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes with Tahini Drizzle

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp maple syrup

A pinch of sea salt Bake sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes or until tender. Mix tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt. Drizzle over baked sweet potatoes and serve.

By integrating these recipes and maintaining healthy habits, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the changing seasons with a strong immune system.

The cool weather, festivities, and feeling of togetherness often bring us closer together as a family.  As a mother with two teenagers, she definitely has her hands full, but embraces the challenges of parenting as well as the whirlwind that comes with having teens.  This chapter in her life inspired her to write her latest book, So You Think You Know Teenagers: A Practical Guide On How To Have An Exceptional Relationship With Your Teenager.

This is an important book that addresses the generational gap in parenting, the influence of technology and social media, and the differences in growing up today compared to when parents were teenagers. It includes a variety of referenced studies and viewpoints to help parents better understand, communicate, and grow with their teens and pre-teens. Today can be one of the most difficult times to be a parent with influence coming from every direction.  Parents may have a difficult time controlling what is consumed by their children, but this book helps them be prepared for anything, even in the modern era. A myriad of topics are covered including hormones, friends, divorce, and home life all to help parents form a more natural and holistic relationship with their teens.  This has been one of the most challenging, yet fulfilling parts of Esmeralda’s life, and she is always learning and growing with her family.  She wants to share what she has learned for generations to come and help families everywhere stay as happy and healthy as they can.  Available everywhere books are sold as well as online!

In the midst of the crisp fall air, Esmeralda Gallemore finds joy in celebrating her Mexican-American heritage, nurturing her growing teenagers, and embracing the season’s abundance. With a passion for sharing her traditions and values, she weaves her culture into everyday moments from flavorful recipes to cherished family time. As the leaves change, Esmeralda remains dedicated to her well-being and that of her family, savoring the rich flavors of fall while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Through her love of family, culture, and good food, she hopes to inspire others to celebrate the season with heart and health.

Esmeralda Gallemore | Author 📖| Coach 🧠 | Dancer 💃🏻