OC Family - Moms. Kids. Life. - (Debbie's Hot Topics)

Bullying. And going Mom-to-Mom in 2010.

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:28:00 GMT

The schools are more crowded. And the teachers are more outnumbered. So are we Moms entitled—or even expected—to handle more of our kids' problems on our own? And over email Mom-to-Mom?

I have the forum to speak my mind, so I’m doing so, to hear what you have to say, and because I need you to help a sister in need. This sister. Whose daughter got bullied two weeks in row.

The bullying thing (blehck) happened with my first grader at school. I let it be. But it continued. So I went cyber-solving and emailed the other mom. Was this totally un-PC? Did I do a major taboo Mom misstep? Was it wrong for me to use our shared school email list to direct email about a problem? (It is 2010.)

I won’t get into the problem, as that’s not cool, but Moms who have been there before, share the love. What to do when you’ve talked to the other child, talked to the teacher and things are getting worse and now uncooly uncomfortable—and beyond the “I’m taking your snack” thing. Do you intervene, as there is only so much a 6-year old can do to solve things. Or do you stay quiet in fear of the wrath of a fellow Mom (and how ridiculous is that, really?!).

Lately I’m being more and more unPC, so I reached out to the other mom (whom I don’t know) via email and am waiting on a response, wrath or mutual respect (one can dream).

I know I need to step it up and have some serious peer pressure chats with my girl, but wonder, is going Mom-to-Mom ever an outlet? And over email? That is how we communicate now.

Never thought I’d be writing about bullying, as it sounds so trivial and petty. That is till it happens to your sweet kid.

Have you emailed another Mom to take care of business?

Keep up with me here at OC Family, at my site at PeaceandMom.com, on Facebook, Twitter or DebbieLavdas.com

Real Housewives OC Finale, are you watching?

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:00:00 GMT

My :90 second'ish vlog take on what's going down this season on RHOC.

Are you a Fan, Hater, or could care less? Are you going to watch more gotta-take-a-shower-now drama unfold on the finale this Thursday night? And will you be tuning in for NYC cast up next?

Hey, I know all the casts are a wreck, but they just want book deals, cuffs in Barney's, makeup in Nordstrom's and all (can we fault their All-American reality entrepreneur'ness?) or is Bravo hitting below the belt?

God help me stop watching “these bitches.” Bravo TV and Andy Cohen I may miss you.

Comment below, I'd love to hear what you're thinking and if you're watching.

And in a totally different, non-trainwreck kinda way, I’m giving away a dozen green (for realz) roses on my site. See and win at peaceandmom.com Thought I'd share, 'cause I love ya bitches.

Shame on Sea World? Death of a trainer.

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 20:24:00 GMT

It’s sad. It’s awful. And let’s not let trainer Dawn Brancheau die in vain. In my last week's post here, where I’m giving away whale watching tickets, I started the post by joking, "No, whale watching isn't a hot topic ...” Unfortunately, now whales and their entertainment value, are on the lips of many with today’s death of the 40-year-old trainer.

All the facts are still coming in, but, to me, it sounds like the animal went mental. I say that not to be flip, just to be frank. By no means, am I saying the trainer got what she deserved—as it’s horrific; I only wonder when we will put an end to the animal circus.

Reported facts say people saw the whales agitated, playing or fighting with each other and refusing to obey commands to splash the crowd before the attack. Those watching the killing, while eating at the "Dine with Shamu," show (do you see the silliness of those three words by the way?) saw the female trainer petting the whale when it grabbed her and plunged into the water. It reappeared on the other side of the tank and leaped up holding her, her face bloody. “The whale circled round and round, turning her over and over,” they said.

Now if you know me, you know have a big heart for animals (have been a Veggie for 20 yrs.) and don’t support the life of tricks many of these captive animals are forced to live. A 12,000-pound, 22-foot long force of nature trapped and forced to swim in circles day after day whose only purpose is to splash on command is inhumane. It’s mind-numbing. It’s flat-out greed on the part of parks. And it's something bad waiting to happen.

Yes, it’s important to learn about these animals, and to show kids their vast beauty, but we can do it other ways. Many other ways: on Alaskan cruises (I’ve been, it’s awe-inspiring), on TV, on local whale watching trips and more. No, I’m not a fan of zoos; I really only go to The Wild Animal Park, as I respect their open terrain. Do I take my kids to the circus? No. Do I support Barnum & Bailey and the likes? HELLA no. And have I been to Sea World? Of course. But I don't go often. I'm not saying there should be no zoos or aquariums, but it's a fine line of what animals are okay in captivity, in their enclosures, in their forced habitats. It’s a fine line for sure, but a 12,000-pound animal trapped in such a torturous space goes way over the line.

If we stop supporting these shows and cheering in the splash zone, the demand will die and the animals can live free. Too holier-than-thou? Too PETA-speak for you? Sorry, but animals don’t have a voice, so I speak up where I can.

What say you?

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

You can keep up with me here at OC Family, at my site at PeaceandMom.com, on Facebook, Twitter or DebbieLavdas.com

Hot Season To Set Sail. Free whale watching tickets.

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:10:00 GMT

No, whale watching isn’t the hot topic of the moment, but now is the prime season for Gray whale sightings in California. So I’m switching it up for a post to invite a reader to win 4 free tickets for her family to cruise out of Dana Point to do some California whale watching.

I boarded the Dana Pride last week with my family and we had an extraordinary trip—with over 40 sightings. My kids adored it and the whole boat ooh’ed and ahh’ed. One lady screamed at every sighting; she was hysterical/could be heard anywhere on boat.

So wanna go? 4 tickets for a family up for grabs, thanks to Michelle from Dana Wharf Whale Watching. Just leave a comment below here, or comment on the story on my site at peaceandmom.com. Heck, you can comment at both sites for an extra shot to win. I’ll pick a random winner Friday, Feb. 26^th and the tickets are yours to cruise anytime.

Here’s a photo story look at our trip below. Click anywhere on the whrrl to view.

Just leave a comment below to enter to win.

And stay tuned for newsy Hot Topics ahead from me here at OC Family. Fyi, find me anytime at my site at PeaceandMom.com, on Facebook, Twitter or even DebbieLavdas.com (if you're the client-kind).

Michael Pollan and his blasted food rules

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:05:00 GMT

Is it just me, or is the whole world talking about the don’t-eat-anything-that-rots Food Guru God, Michael Pollan and his new book Food Rules? Did you catch him last week on Oprah, or ever other news outlet in America? And are you taking it to heart or do you get a headache just thinking about all you’re doing wrong?

I say "blasted" food rules, 'cause the guy and his easy-breezy rules are causing me stress. Take this morning, I just grabbed for my whole grain Trader Joe’s oatmeal, thinking I was doing my body good, but then flashed to his "eat only foods that rot" rule. Packaged oatmeal? I think that ranks up there with MRE’s. Ugh, I ate it anyway, but kind of kicked myself with every bite.

I know he’s right. I shouldn’t eat foods my grandmother wouldn’t recognize. And fat-free has made us all fat. But I have no more room for guilt in my life, and want to run for a Reese cup and Hershey bar when I think of all I’ve got to change.

His philosophy is summed up in those 7 simple words now heard around the world: "Eat food, not too much, mostly plants."

How can 7 little words cause me such deep-set wrinkles? (Which btw, I’d so get botoxed if I didn’t think it’d rot my body and give me the Hurricane 5 Facelift look.)

A few of the other rules he lives by:

#11:Avoid food products advertised on television.

Avoid food products that contain high fructose corn syrup.

#37 The whiter the bread, the sooner you'll be dead.

#17:Eat food cooked by humans, not corporations.

#19:If it came from a plant, eat it; if it was made in a plant, don’t.

Pay more, eat less.

#36:Don’t eat breakfast cereals that change the color of the milk.

#58:Eat all the junk food you want as long as you cook it yourself.

So are you on board with Pollan? Did you see Food Inc? Do you think America will possibly change its fast food, processed, oversized ways?

More Hot Topics ahead from me here at OC Family. I'm also always online at my site at PeaceandMom.com, on Facebook, Twitter and DebbieLavdas.com

Sassy Cindy McCain. And Foxy Sarah Palin.

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:37:00 GMT

What do you think of these moxie media ladies? Did you see Cindy’s NOH8 subtle statement? And are you watching Sarah on Fox?

Personally, I love Cindy’s move and message. Wow, what a gutsy act, and I feel like it got a little lost in the media, so I wanted to call it out.

The usually quiet and reserved Cindy recently posed for this NOH8 Campaign with this loud-and-clear, silent vote for Marriage Equality. Turns out, Cindy contacted the nonprofit photo project to pose, following in the steps of daughter Meghan. Love that the mom-daughter duo took such a public stand in spite of hubby and daddy John McCain’s opposing position. It brings the “stand by your man” message into 2010, I think. And I dig that John handled it well, respecting their opinions, but held firm on his own. “We are family,” but we aren’t issued to drink the kool-aid. Cheers to that.

And as for the other recent right wing media move, Palin on Fox, well it’s not as much of a lovefest from me. Go figure (code for: see my Palin on Newsweek post), but I’m open to watching. Are you? I do think it was another gutsy move on her part, as she put herself in the spotlight with a big bullseye target for those who love to hate her and are just waiting for her to trip up. And of course, it's savvy, as Palin fans are thrilled that she now has her own media platform to speak her mind regularly and clear up any matters instantly.

I surf all the stations, CNN, FOX, MSNBC, so I tuned into watch her debut a few weeks ago. Her banter with O’Reilly was okay, I think he went a little soft on her, I think she totally dodged some questions and overall I think she blatantly used the platform for Pres. vs. Commentary. I expect more hardball hitters from Bill or I’m out. And as for Palin on Glenn Beck's show, I watched that too, and almost did that throw-up-in-your-mouth thing from the creepy love-to-love ya hour of “the world’s gonna blow if you aren’t President, Sarah!” Really, Beck, why didn’t you just fall to the ground, bow three times and kiss her feet (or suck her toes, seriously, what was going on there?).

FOX will get ratings, advertisers will be thrilled, but the whole Fair & Balanced tag is getting a little watered down now with Palin, Huckabee etc. O’Reilly better bring it, or they are so gonna need me to write a new tag for them soon. Have you watched lately? Catch me up.

What do you think? Love or hate Cindy and Sarah's latest? Right on to the right wingers or still no way and left all the way?

Thanks for reading. Keep up with me here at OC Family, on my e-zine site at PeaceandMom.com, or on Facebook and Twitter (@DebLavdas). And if you're the client-copy kind, hit me up at DebbieLavdas.com

POSTED BY OC FAMILY ON 01/18/2010 AT 8:37 AM COMMENTS (0) TRACKBACKS (0)

It's raining Mommy Redemption

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:37:00 GMT

Always a hot topic: Perfect Mommy Syndrome, PMS of a whole different kind.

Yesterday, I went in search of cover for my kids in preparation for StormWatch 2010, and we are now equipped with, count ‘em, 4 umbrellas! This is seriously a big deal in my house.

For the last 20 years, if it rained, I got wet. No biggie, right? The wet dog look was just so me. I couldn’t be bothered with pesky umbrellas. The Search and Rescue to find an umbrella in my house was simply never worth it, and I was, frankly, accustomed to the Debbie dart-and-dash run from A to B. It was what it was. And my kids were following course.

So what’s with the umbrella arsenal now? Mom Guilt, of course—that deafening drone, which eventually can’t be ignored.

You see a few weeks ago when it rained, I saw all the other kids in their super cute raingear, fun boots and trendy chic slickers. My kids? I preached the “What, you’re gonna melt? You’ll be fine!” Or I’d send ‘em with Daddy’s boring black pop-up—IF I were lucky enough to find it in my two-second check out the door.

Then, it happened, I saw THAT look from my girl. The one you catch every once in awhile when you see your kids look at other kids with kid-envy and love for others’ mommies. Ouch, right in the heart. My girl’s friend had one of those perfectly charming, clear, bubble, old-school umbrellas that poured a message of “love and a well-cared child” (ok, I exaggerate, but you know what I mean).

So yesterday, we were off to the store in search of cover and Mommy Redemption. I didn’t find the old-school charm, but we found penguins and zebras fixes that will do just fine. Plus, I picked my girl up some polka dot Paul Frank rainboots on sale. Wow, Mommy-Score, bonus points.

So we’re weatherproofed, and ... I’m getting there, as usual … a drop-by-drop journey to be “one of those moms” who always has it all together. A girl can dream. And, let’s be serious, so can my kids.

Stay safe in rainy SoCal this week.

You can keep up with me keeping up and keeping pace with the latest happenings and hot topics here at OC Family, on my site (peaceandmom.com) or on Facebook.

It’s alive! 10 surgeries & Heidi says give me more.

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 08:20:00 GMT

Somebody just dubbed her the "Frankenstein of the iPod generation," great line. For the love of Jesus, what was she thinking? Here's Heidi Montag on the cover of People with her newest new nose, bigger boobs, tucked ears, sucked neck, higher brows, smaller chin, fatter cheeks, new hips, butt and "more."

The 23-yr. old reality "star" from The Hills just dropped 30k on her new extreme nip-tucked self. She admits she's addicted to plastic surgery (uh yea) and can't wait to get more.

Oh Spencer, why didn't you stop her? Strike that. Heidi's mom would have stopped her I'm sure, but she didn't get the chance, as she wasn't even told. (Imagine being her mom and seeing your all-new girl.)

So ... the post-Heidi? She’s got that Jennifer Grey thing—you know she's in there somewhere, but can't quite figure it out.

And ... the new Heidi hits just as her new album drops (titled 'Superficial' and she says it rivals 'Thriller' omg). What timing. Hey, that's fame. And we may all now remember her name, even if we can’t quite recognize her face.

Sorry Heidi, but boob move, bad message, and, really, you told the world you got a new vajayjay?

Funniest take on Speidi's Heidi is still Anderson Cooper’s shot last year after her Miss Universe performance, saying. “She tweeted she had so much fun, and she also thanked God. I don't think God had anything to do with this production." Click the video below for more.

Oh, and speaking of AC, who's in Haiti of course, imagine if the holy-rolling Heidi would have used her Hollywood cash for the true down and out's of the world instead of her continuous how-hot-am-I makeovers? Can I get an amen?

Gotta go give my girl an extra "you're great just the way you are" hug and smooch.

Sorry, I know there are more important matters in the world as mentioned above, but a little levity helps me keep going.

Cirque’s Kooza is freak meets phenomenal

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:20:00 GMT

A Kooza ticket is the hot ticket in town right now. I went, I saw, I was blown away by how insanely hard the show works for your money—and how the whole night is an amazing escapist act from our 2010 realities.

Friday I was invited to the premiere of Kooza in Irvine at OC Great Park. I didn’t quite know what to expect, as I’d never been to a Cirque show. Everyone gushed, “Oh, Debbie, you’re going to lo-lo-lo-lo-love Cirque!” "Alright already," I thought. I’ll see about that with my slightly cynical “gimme your best shot” silent Cirque dare.

And? Well ... by the second half, I was speechless.

Seriously, my jaw dropped, my eyes bugged out, my head was shaking back and forth and palms were a little sweaty thinking “dang, somebody might die here." And when I wasn’t mute, I was LMAO at the audience schmucks who got pulled up on stage. Very funny.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone work that hard to entertain me. It was Big Top contortion circus freak meets Evil Knievel crazy meets gorgeous, artistic expressions of movement and to-die-for music. All jammed into a two-hour show.

Yea, my mind flipped when the girl walked her body backwards around her folded self, but what really put me over the edge was the Wheel of Death devil guys who came out and rocked it like something out of Mad Max. Everyone around me gasped, and it felt like time stood still. The crowd energy was crazy. I looked around and realized at that moment that somehow we’d all forgotten the economy, the war on terror, the daily grind and were just being ridiculously entertained. What a treat. What an escape. The Kooza crew brought it! Intense, captivating entertainment.

I know many pass on the show because of the ticket prices, but it really is insanely worth it, worth saving up for, worth a special splurge/birthday/anniversary.

So there you have it. My two cents on a night worth every penny.

Show info/tickets on the Kooza site or by calling 1 800 450-1480. 18 additional performances added by the way under the blue-and-yellow big top at Orange County Great Park in Irvine. Show leaves February 14, 2010.

My whrrl from the night below, click anywhere to take a look.

Look for more Hot Topic talk always—from hot local events to latest national news.

Profile, profile, profile. Enough of the PC nonsense.

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 09:54:00 GMT

After flying over the holidays, I’ve decided that I’m over all of our politically correct American ways. I say profile like El Al. How about you?

On December 21st, I was against profiling as I leisurely headed to Florida--more worried about forgetting all my kids’ video games than I was remotely preoccupied with Nigerian Al Qaeda accomplices. That was the departing flight.

The return flight, post December 25^th underwear bomber whackjob, was a different story. I was spooked. I profiled with my eyes, kept my ears open and honestly wished the US would be watching my back more and protecting my kids more, so I didn’t have to think about where the exits and fire extinguishers were if the side of the plane went up.

Another thing that stuck with me on my airport travels home were images of our soldiers all over at all gates … in their fatigues, with fresh crew cuts and backpacks in tow. They were all well-mannered, but expressionless mostly. You could tell they had heavy hearts. And with every camo’ed uniform, I got a little more PO’d and much less PC; wondering why 30,000 more of our guys had to be sent off to fight these crazies, yet we had to be all proper and PC and couldn’t even profile characters that might fit the bill standing next to us in the airport.

Let’s get serious. El Al airlines has had the world whacks after them for years, yet remained terror-free on flights since they started profiling 30 years ago. We aren’t even stopping all-cash, no-luggage, one-way travelers from Yemen after their family members alert us.

I know the system is always going to fail in some ways, so let’s take all the extra reasonable precautions possible and pull aside those who fit the profile. If you’re Arab, male, 18-30, etc., and we want to question you because people from your part of the world are trying to kill us everyday, it is what it is. That comes with the territory when you want to come here. And if you don’t like it, pick another country.

Harsh? Perhaps. But I didn’t like sitting in 21 A on the way home, and wondering if I should leap over the seats if I see 18A’s underwear light up. And you never know what a Mama Bear might do. Thank God for that guy who took down the Nigerian, thank God for US soldiers I had on my plane, and shame on Janet Napolitano/Homeland Security for saying the US did everything right and that the passengers and crew acted together to take on the terrorists December 25^th. That’s your job, lady, and you all should have never let him through in the first place.

Let the profiling begin.

(No, I’m not ready for the body scans yet; unsure of the radiation, etc. Let’s see how backroom "sitdowns" go first.)

Your Health in 2010

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 13:29:00 GMT

Make this the year to take as good care of yourself as your family. Listen to your body and align your lifestyle with the help of mobile wellness guru and kind-hearted soul Christina Attiken. She travels from OC to LA with her MOMeezPT biz, assessing busy Moms on the move and showing them how to breathe easier.

Health is always a hot topic for moms, and Christina has studied it and physical therapy for years, even traveling to Africa and beyond to look at bodies in action.

MOMeez Physical Therapy is as much about preventative medicine, as it is finding the cure to what ails you. Moms are constantly literally juggling kids, groceries, careers and other daily heavy lifting, and often suffer headaches, tension, neck- and backaches as a part of the daily grind. Christina is here to look at your daily routine upclose and personal in the home where you operate nonstop.

For more backstory on her one-of-a-kind, one-to-one business, take a look at our video. We chat body movements, global lifestyles, breathing and everything else that goes into a more balanced walk of life. I caught up with her at the Renaissance Sports Club, and then we moved our talk to my home for a one-one-one consult to cure my aching back.

By the way, Christina’s clients range from busy moms to SoCal’s athlete and more.

She really is amazing and can works wonders to identify the root of your pain, and help you help yourself with everything from small steps to major strides.

More everyday Hot Topics ahead here on everything from health to news to pop culture or visit me anytime at my OC e-zine site, Peace Love and Momminess.

Teddy Bear Tea time at the Ritz

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

My girl and I stepped out for a new holiday tradition, Teddy Bear Tea Time at the Ritz Carlton. The Ritz is a hot spot anytime of year, but during the holidays it's particularly perfect.

A few weeks ago while at my hairdresser's, my stylist (and great conversationalist) asked me what my holiday tradition was with my girl ... that special something just she and I did together every year. “Uh, um, hmm, let’s see … it’s a, well ... " Apparently I didn’t have one! How could that possibly be? I don’t know, but I didn’t, never even thought about it. So when she said her and her mom always went to the Ritz for tea, it sounded delicious. Special and refined, girlie and something sure to look forward to.

I called the Ritz and sure enough, the last Teddy Bear Tea of the year was December 20^th and they kindly invited us to attend.

From the first valet salutations to the inspired views in every direction, the day made for a gorgeous, charming, princess-like outing. At the Tea, fluffy white pillows lined the floor for the kids and red-checked linens lined their tables. Magic took the stage to wow and entertain. Cocoa, cookies, finger sandwiches and a brunch assortment were elegantly served for all (and Mimosas flowed moms and dads). I could almost see my girl’s invisible tiara, as she fully embraced her special day and Mommy and Me time.

After the show, we walked the hotel, took in the décor and the amazing life-sized surf gingerbread house, then relaxed outside by the koi ponds. There was an extra special Ritz touch and holiday pizazz.

We left refreshed, entertained, treated, and I left with a new tradition. While my girl and I will outgrow our Teddy Bear Tea time in the next few years, I suspect we will graduate to a cup of tea and inspired conversation at the restaurant overlooking the ocean. The pomp and circumstance set the stage for years ahead of rich time together.

Do you have an annual one-on-one holiday tradition? I’m still in need of one with my little guy.

More Ritz hot happenings ahead on their site calendar.

And more on tea and conversation and cast-iron tea sets (very hot right now) at my site, Peace Love and Momminess.

More holiday hot is Disney On Ice

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:37:00 GMT

If you’ve got time to chill over the holidays, a hot pick is Disney On Ice. I hit Media Night last night for a first look at the ice spectacular. And it was pretty icy spectacular.

You can get a skate-by-skate in my Whrrl photo story (by clicking anywhere below) to see a little Lightning McQueen, Little Mermaid, Lion King and the flying Tink finale. The show was like all things Disney: done right, done big and jam-packed.

It was cute to see my kids lost in the magic, see 'em on the edge of their seats with some of the theatrical drama and simply just see them really enjoying themselves.

I loved everything except … those aisle vendors! Ah, my kids wanted every- and anything, of course. Snow cones. Popcorn. Mickey spinners! So, advice: go full, go with a pre-agreed item on your kiddo’s wish list and walk fast past the merchandising … and you’ll have a perfect night.

The show runs in LA through this weekend, moves to Anaheim Dec 22nd-27th at The Honda Center (buy tickets here), then onto Ontario and Long Beach through Jan. 10^th.

It’s for sure a hot show to catch (was all over the news today)—and I think it would probably be a very fun surprise gift for the kids, if you don’t already have tickets (coupon code in my whrrl btw).

But enough of what I thought, here’s the skinny straight from a kid, my little “boo,” who jumped in my live AudioBoo last night talking about Simba skating. Just click play below for the short 1-minute listen.

Listen!

Stay tuned for more of what's hot or visit me anytime at my e-zine site, Peace Love and Momminess.

Hot for the holidays, wild animal fun

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:44:00 GMT

Nothing says holidays like a 500-lb. lion rippin’ open his Christmas loot.

Hot on everyone's lips is what to do over the break. I reco the good times at the Wild Animal Park. And you’ve got three weekends left to soak up the gifting and watching of antelope and other species at play.

During the park’s Wild Holidays 12 Days of Enrichment, kids get to hand-paint presents for lions, gorillas, elephants, vultures and meerkats. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get a peek at them “opening” their present-pretty boxed goods of popcorn and insect-tubes throughout the day.

2009 marks the first year for these wild holiday happenings. I love the idea and inclusion and kindness to our furry friends this time of year. I’ve always been a big fan of the Wild Animal Park and their natural, wide-open habitat, and their holiday spirit didn’t disappoint.

Other kid enrichment activities going down through January 2nd at the Park include creating mazes for meerkats and making tacos out of hay and food pellets for the elephants. Yum, Chipotle, get on that.

There’s also centers for kids to craft presents for their own cats and dogs, slime time and more. A black light puppet show wraps the night and later evening hours get you your money’s worth (all activities are all free with admission).

Here’s a look at my press preview at the Wild Holidays opening weekend. It rained cats and dogs, but like that was gonna stop us. Click anywhere on the whrrl below to see the photo story and get a taste of the fun:

More stories at San Diego Wild Animal Park

And here’s a quick 1-minute listen from our singing tram guide Molly. Rain or shine, it's all good:

Listen!

Happy holidays. More hot happenings and topics ahead, or visit me anytime at my e-zine site, Peace Love and Momminess.

Hood rats. And the men who love 'em.

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Sorry I just can't let this one go. The count is up to like 13. Seriously?! Tiger, what up? You got the Swedish model and go for the Hoot Rat, Hoochie Mamas in Vegas?

What is it with men who gotta go for sloppy seconds off Las Vegas Blvd. when they've got the hot mama at home?

I admit it, at first I was pulling for Tiger when the saga broke, I even kinda took his side with the news of his lacerated, semiconscious status. And it's still totally uncool if she roughed him up, but as the drama oozes like a bad case at a public health clinic, I'm left dumbfounded at my clean-cut, collared, all-American Tiger.

Wow. And they're ALL hoochie mamas. I mean, Tool Academy contestants? Really?

I don't know the pscyhological mind warp behind his "transgressions," I can't understand the illogical nature of thinking no one might find out, and I can't comprehend his overinflated ego and callous family detachment....but at least I learned something from this whole thing.

I now know the definition of a hood rat.

Thanks, TMZ. I'm enlightened. (And if you don't know the song, think 2 Live Crew.)

Do you get Tiger and his hood rats?

Do you think men just forgot about Lorena Bobbit?

(He's lucky Elin only had a wedge, fo' shizzle.)

More Hot Topics ahead, maybe even more classy next time. Or visit me anytime at Peace Love and Momminess.

Gotta love the tween music machine. Or do we?

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:29:00 GMT

2010 couldn’t come soon enough for me to see the end of the Hannah. Ba-bye, and don’t let the door hit ya in the mass-marketed, overhyped behind.

I mean really, how much money did we throw at that empire of ingenious PR people who whipped up the perfect image to whip our kids into a frenzy?

I’m not gonna go down the road of how that cash could have gone to feed kids in Africa or anything—but it could have been used to buy our kids instruments, music lessons, tickets to a blues concert, a Billie Holiday cd or a Kidrockers show. We all work hard for our money and, don’t have “idol” cash laying around. Or maybe some do and can't wait for the next HSM empire. Rock on.

Me? I’m over the hair, the outfits, the hype, the boy crazy, the cool kids and the gotta-fit-in/buy-me-a-lunchbox image. I don’t think my girl needs to be 6 going on 16 in awe of the likes of the next teen star who straddles the land between tweens and over 18 with stage pole props or whatever to age her up. And I don’t buy into encouraging the empires to churn out another commercial “success.” 'Cause with the next role model American sweetheart, undoubtedly comes the girl who’s eventually a heartbeat away from the boulevard of Britney. And with the exit of another talentless pop tween career, goes our money (keenly mixed in stereo) down the drain. Will any of our kids really be the next great musician because of Miley or HSM? Yea, Beyonce was pop-inspired at 5, but really, she was a single little lady and I think her mom managed her career without having to take a shower every day from selling out.

I say we say no to the money-grubbing execs and outfits who don’t really care about our kids or the crap they’re glamorizing and start supporting groups who do—and they’re out there, like that Kidrocker group I mentioned. Kidrockers is a LA (and NY) biz who books real bands with real talent—bands who normally play for adults, but take the stage for kids. The LA gigs go down at The Echo on Sunset and give kids an upclose and personal look at top Indie artists who have passion and artistry. There’s no millionbillion dollar front behind the musicians, just instruments, a few laser lights and a hilarious comic who entertains between sets. It’s simple. Real. Underrated.

So, while I won’t be hanging at any Hannah concert finale, you can find me and my kids at a bar on Sunset … or maybe a Pacific Symphony Orchestra summer concert or a musical. My money’s on the real deal.

How about you? Tween pop stars, turn it up … or turn the junk off?

Lighten up .. or enough of the deep pockets?

Hannah for the holidays … or Hella No?

Learn more about Kidrockers in my live photo look from last weekend’s show. Click anywhere on the whrrl image below.

And listen to my live ipadio audiocast with Beth and Hannah from Kidrockers (free ticket info in the audio). Just click the green arrow below to hear our chat.

More Hot Topics coming or visit me anytime at my e-zine site at

Peace Love and Momminess.

“Should we stay or should we go?”

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:08:00 GMT

“This report is now complete." Gulp. Dramatic pause. “I've ordered 30,000 more troops.” Pit in my stomach.

I watched Obama's speech last night. Did you? It was no fun to hear, there were no cowboy cheers and no hoots and hollers. Just pensive looks from cadets and heavy hearts from everybody.

It’s tough stuff. My husband is a former Marine and we went through six-month deployments. It's hard on all, the soldiers, the country, the spouses--and now as a parent, I realize that it could be my little guy or any of our sweet little kiddos out there in the same war in 10-15 years. And maybe it’s our nephews and nieces now.

The country is split. I’ll admit it, I’m asking: Is this really in our “vital national interest”? Should we send 30,000 troops or more to hunt down 100 bad guys in the hills of nowhere? And, seriously, can we even help a place whose economy is whacked with fields of poppy, heroine and other crack I don’t even know about? And what about the cops over there who hide the hunted in their back rooms?

Then there’s the exit strategy. July 2011? For real? Famous last words? Or will it just be the date the bad guys wait out?

Hard to say. And hard to hear when we’re all looking for support and work at home.

Don't know that Obama sold anyone last night. I’m on the fence on this one. My heart and gut says, “No more troops.” My head flashes back to 9/11.

You? For or against? “Finish the job”? Or done with Iraq and over Afghanistan already?

More hot topics from me here as they happen or visit me anytime at my site for OC moms at PeaceLoveandMomminess.com

5-DVD Giveaway for Night at the Museum 2.

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:46:00 GMT

Win a copy for your kids for Christmas. So easy. So popular. And it was just released today.

DVDs are always hot on the list, and a lot of kids have had their hot little hands waiting for this one. Did you catch Battle of the Smithsonian in theaters? If not, Ben Stiller and Robin Williams rock again, the effects are amazing and the monkey smackdowns are too much (fun bonus DVD footage of the monkey training). You’ll see the exhibits come alive after dark again, this time as they are going to be retired to the archives of the Smithsonian.

What I like about the movie is there is no inappropriate age thing to worry about and it’s as funny for kids as it is the moms (and dads), who have to watch it 500 times. And it has a solid moral—that the key to Happiness is doing what you love with people you love. Well said.

So wanna be the Supermom and win your superguy or girl their DVD that just hit stores? Simple. Just comment below and say you’d love the dvd. I’ve got 5 to giveaway (thanks 20th Century Fox). And for amped odds, leave an additional comment about something you liked from my audio interview with the very cool and funny Mizuo Peck who played Sacagawea; take a listen here to our Tweetmic chat (click this link, not the image below), then come back and comment if you'd like.

Enter by this Friday December 4th here on my OC Family blog or on my Peace Love and Momminess site. It’s anybody’s win, as I’ll pick the 5 winners by Random.org.

So easy and ALL are invited to comment to win, because, really, who doesn’t need a little free (and fun) this holiday season?

Hell hath no fury like a woman with a 5 iron?

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 10:08:00 GMT

Will we see Tiger Woods in Thousand Oaks Monday? Will we get the real story? What do you think of the possible tables turned angle in light of the Chris Brown incident? And who do get your news from first these days?

The details are salacious, but the questions are serious. It’s not the TMZ tabloid literal car wreck you can’t look away from here that's got me, it’s the question of possible privileged coverup, what we learned from Rhianna and who is the most trusted name in news that trips me up.

Some quick story catch up: it seems Tiger hit the road Thanksgiving night at 2am. Weird. Backed into a fire hydrant and tree. Weirder. Had cuts on his face (TMZ says from his wife). Not good. He was "rescued" from his Cadillac when his wife bashed the back window with a golf club (really?). Whoa. And then she was found giving him first aid as he was semiconscious in front of his car when police arrived. Hmm?

The whole scene was breaking news on every channel. A little hyped, yes, but because Tiger is the world’s golf God and his injuries could have effected his career and the status of the world’s most recognizable athlete, I see the newsworthiness.

Anyway, wonder what you think of this story as the details trickle in. Me? I’m wondering if the alleged details are true, and his wife pulled a Carrie Underwood “Before He Cheats,” should he stay with his family? Is it good for the kids? Would he stay to save face? Is free speech bring practiced by all parties here in reporting the case? Do we get our news first from the TMZ’s who aren’t afraid to release the non-pc scoop, or do we wait on the CNN’s who want all to be 100% verified and who are probably sitting on scoop? (TMZ did one-up CNN on Balloon Boy, Edwards etc. )

I don’t want to snark the story really (though I couldn't resist the song), as it’s sad on many levels and who knows what’s true. I just think it’s interesting on many levels too. I wish the Woods the best, peace and harmony, I just think all stories should be treated equal.

Wonder what you think? And do you even care?

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Find more hot topic talk from me here on OC Family, and more OC lifestyle e-zine on my site at Peace Love and Momminess.

Peta's new spot that NBC won't let your kids see.

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:57:00 GMT

Not to get your feathers all ruffled, but it’s a Thanksgiving day spot worth talking about. See it and sound off, if you'd let your kids see it or not.

Yes, Peta can be WAY extreme, I’m the first to say that. But this spot is borderline, was created with kids in mind, has a girl delivering the message and Thanksgiving grace, and is more toned down than usual. So it’s kind of interesting, particularly for this Veggie and advertising writer.

I just saw the news about it while flipping to CNN, while my kids were in the room. Now my son is vegetarian, but my girl takes after her carnivore Dad. So I wondered what she’d say. She watched, we talked and she asked if we could make her mac and cheese for the feast. I, of course, said, “Yes, I’ll make you anything.”

I’ve always said I’m going to have a chat with her one day to really tell her where “Happy” Meals come from, but in a way, Peta just did that for me. And in a pretty tame, kid-relatable manner. I liked the Peta rep’s answer about giving kids courage (in perhaps a house of meateaters). Kids should have a choice, right?

Was Peta's recipe for Veggie conversion too much? Well, as an ad writer who’s written every kind of print, radio, web and tv advertising for brands from Jag and Sony to Mattel and PacSun, I say it felt pretty good. I liked the POV from the kid, the nonpreaching and nongraphic approach and the upbeat ending. The casting seemed good, and the message was clear. And as for the brand, yes Peta got people talking again.

So even if NBC won’t run it, Peta is getting buzz, and this time without seriously ruffling a lot of feathers.

What do you think (putting past Peta'ness aside if you can)? Should kids be able to see it and learn the backstory of the bird? Or just gobble in blind bliss?

Here’s the segment on CNN that gives veteran Jeanne Moos’ take. I’m confident most of you will vote for the vodka shootup and call it a day. But just wondered. Oh, and it’s JUST a topic of discussion; we can all agree to disagree, right?

Happy Thanksgiving, all.

More of my writings, videos and all things OC at PeaceLoveandMomminess.com

Joel McHale. Soo meaty!

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:36:00 GMT

So do you watch this guy? Soo funny. I seriously think he may be the funniest guy on tv. It's the only show that I literally laugh out loud at and openly gasp at, at least 5 times per 30 minutes with the "Oh no he didn’t” just say that. The shock of copy. The awe of the delivery. And wow, how he continues to bang it out show and show again.

I don't watch Wendy Williams or Wife Swap, but I find the post wraps hilarious. And the Speidi takes make me giggle (loved the Anderson Cooper/Heidi Montag bit). The deadpan delivery and lines like "use your inside skank voice" and repeating of “smash the homie” Love of Ray J smacktalk gets me every time. I'm easy like that.

Yes I admit it, I was suspect that E! could ever possibly replace their golden boy Greg Kinnear, but they did. In a more cool guy, crisp, whatever way.

Recently I was called "petty" by some of my new OC Family reader friends for my take on Palin on Newsweek, and was dissed for my remarks about how it bugged me that I could only see Catalina when she could see Russia. I can't help but wonder, had my ever-charming, jesting Joel delivered the same line, would he have killed it? Ah, perhaps.

So if you don’t get me, don’t quit me just yet (in the words of Brokeback, and Suz). Think of me, then think of Joel McHale. I'm way less funny, but similarly non mean-spirited.

And if you don't watch The Soup, DVR the guy right now. What OC mom out there doesn't need a little daily trash talking, pee-your-pants funny escape from the daily ridiculous?

Oh, and if you're a Joel Hater and a Palin Lover, I’m really screwed on this one. My sincerest unapologetic apology in advance. I'm kidding! Or, am I?

And before you say it, by "meaty," I meant substance.

Catch me back for some other upcoming look at life less serious. And next time it might even be OC-related. Focus Debbie, focus.

Inhale, exhale, repeat and log onto Peace Love and Momminess and check out my video look at the holidays at Disneyland. I do some mousespeak, kinda funny, kinda corny. (It's totally NOT McHale E! bust-a-gut humor good, more suburban housewife with a Flip funny. Hey, maybe my clip could make E! with some dry McHale humor interpretation, like “What was Mickey trying to tell you? Uh, no cheezy cheese for The Mouse, lady Mom Blogger. I run this show. Go blog something, and get some some new highlights already!”)

Enough, I know. I’m out. Click for Joel (and turn it down if kids are around).

PeaceLoveandMomminess.comAnd hope you'll fan the PLM Facebook page.

"Run the cover. It's got legs."

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:34:00 GMT

Can’t you just hear Newsweek cackling, as they comp’ed their Palin cover? Rubbing their hands together with that Mad Scientist laugh. The gall. The genius. The great debate they were about to run with.

A show of hands of those who think it’s right—and those who just left Newsweek’s readership forever. Personally, I sat with the image many days and came to the conclusion that it’s right on.

Let’s face it, Sarah’s a big girl, she’s been around the block a lap or two, and her women’s intuition maybe should have gone off the second she cocked her head just right, threw a little hip out and gave that sexy Runner’s World leg pose. “Hmmm, this could be taken out of context? Get repurposed? The press could run wild with this?” Thoughts of Perez Hilton, perky Katie Couric and Newsweek should have raced through her presidential head.

Don’t be pulling a beauty queen Prejean on us, the “but I only intended it for so and so.”

Remember Obama’s hot bod beach shot on the Washingtonian? Sexist? He owned it, I think. As should she.

Hey, I don’t hate her because she’s a Hunter and I’m a Veggie, or because she can see Russia and I can only see Catalina, or even because of her kill ‘em with kindness Prejean-like smile (the new duo) when she’s sticking it to the media—right now I’m just annoyed that’s she’s got better legs than me and I can’t even get to the gym when I press myself to do so.

You betcha I like the cover.

How ‘bout you? “Dislike” her because she’s beautiful? Because she ran away from her term? Because she left those kids on the trail and is now toting them on her book tour? Or just because she’s a little right wing crazy and went rogue on such a good guy like McCain? Or maybe you love her. Speak your mind. Everyone’s free to do so, right?

For more hot Mom topics and what's making news in OC, visit my site at PeaceLoveandMomminess.com

My OC Swine Flu Party Is On

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:21:00 GMT

Who’s in? I’m inviting the flu and embracing the Swine. Why wait for the unknown when you could get it over with now?

We’ll have movies, candy, a bounce house, but no antibacterial anything. So come as you are and ready the Tamiflu because we’ll be germ-swapping without a care in the world.

RSVP as soon as you can so I can prep the cold compress goody bags.

Cheers, Debbie

PS: Yes, this is a total faux party. I had to embrace the ridiculousness, as my neighbor just hit her pediatrician's office--and he said the parties are hitting the OC. OMG, say it ain’t so.

For more on the insanity, visit CNN. For my Swine symptoms video with local CHOC doc, click here. And for all things PLM, visit my site at PeaceLoveandMomminess.com

Fashion Island Do's

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:13:00 GMT

My video look at Fashion Island’s recent ‘Passport To Luxury’ night out. And what’s hot now. Learn sexy beach hair, Kate Spade handbags, home style and Closet fun.

Do you know this annual event? The Passport To Luxury is fabulous, benefits charity and is FI first class all the way. It’s like a swanky bar crawl with champagne, chic clothing and a Bloomie’s beauty bar. The night (OCt. 15th) was put on by the luxe Riviera Magazine.

We got our passport, strolled the stores and got stamped at six in hopes to win a style spree. My date was my fashionista 5 year old, but it’s ideal to hit with a favorite “older” girlfriend, as you’re mini bar wined and appetizer-dined while you get introduced to the latest fashions.

And you may think you already know what’s going down at the Newport mall, but that’s the thing, you discover styles and stores you may never have known about.

I’m a Fashion Island regular, as I love the outdoor scene, take my lab and the kids get their fountain fix, so I thought I knew all of this mall, but I crushed on some new loves that night with my chance to mingle, shop and drink Lemon Drops.

Each store had their own signature menu to “get you in the mood” for shopping and relax your disposable spending—with good intentions. Proceeds from your night’s purchases go to Juvenile Diabetes.

Catch up on what’s hot with PLM’s video look at the Passport To Luxury night out (Oct.15th 2009):

Hot Moms For Halloween: Hot or Not?

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 11:05:00 GMT

There’s candy ... and there’s eye candy.

Halloween is for the kids, right? The spook, the creep, the wicked witch and monster mash. So what’s with the moms who think it’s a Fredrick’s costume party?

If you’ve hit any early family fun Halloween bashes, you may have seen the Hot Look-At-Me Moms out with their kids. If not, keep an eye out this weekend.

Sorry, but it’s creepy, in a bad way, to see the Playboy bunny ears and bootie or Sex Kitten Elvira Mom as she holds the hands of her cute, little munchkin for Halloween. I know it’s the OC, but the double D’s can wait to come out and play.

This is the kids’ turn. Let’s focus on their makeup, their photos and their loot, and save the goodies for another time and place.

So 4 Mom Halloween Don’ts? I’m thinking the Hot Cheerleader (or other Sporty Girl go-as), the Bunny Honey, the Bad Girl Witch and the Super Hero Ho (yep, I said it).

And if any hotties wanna dress up to get in the spirit? Maybe go to the other extreme this year and think scary (vs freaky). The kids adore Mom in green goo and any unrecognizable attire—and it would surely score Coolest Mom kudos. Just sayin’.

So, here’s to a no Hoochie Mama Halloween. Ahhh, that feels better.