OCMomsBlog







A place for Mom's in Orange County to share articles, advice, talking, sharing, tips, Girl stuff, Mom stuff and everything in between!
OC Moms - A place for Mom's in Orange County

OC Moms Blog has moved!

 


A little about OC Mom Mag.

Welcome to the NEW OC Mom Mag, a magazine....aka a Mamazine dedicated to Orange County Mom's. A place to grab a cup of coffee relax and read. There are so many Mom hats these days from morning sickness to mom-tini's, work to playgrounds, recipes to that favorite new pair of jeans...we want to have a place that captures it all.

OC Mom Mag offers Mom to Mom tips and advice, articles, recipes, resources, calendar of events, where to go and what to do and so much more.

Every Mom can post a blog, share their thoughts and advice, upload pictures and videos and connect with other OC Mom's.

It all started several years ago when we started OC Mom's Blog. So many friends made and ideas born the traffic and readers grew on OC Mom's Blog we knew it was time to evolve to the next level. OC Mom Mag is the next step. It is the go-to resource for Mom's in Orange County.

OC Mom Mag
The Only Magazine just for Mom at OCMomMag.com

Hello OC Moms!

Hello OC Moms! I know, I know the new site is taking too long, but it's coming I promise.
I still want to share this give away with all of you, so check it out on OCEZINE.....

We will be up and running soon.

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OC Mom's Blog is getting a facelift...well sort of

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“It’s a Small World” Trivia by Bethany Sunny


“It’s a Small World” Trivia 


Disneyland opened its renovated and enhanced favorite ride “It’s a Small World.”  It’s the song that once you hear you cannot forget for the rest of the day no matter how hard you try.  It’s the ride that has captivated young and old for many years.  So, with the new opening I thought it would be fun to share some trivia with you.



  •  The "It's a small world" made its debut as an exhibit at the 1964-65 New York World's Fair.

  •  It was part of the World’s Fair for 2 years and then was brought to Disneyland in May of 1966.
    Mary Blair helped introduce modern art to Walt Disney and his Studio. It was her artistic style you see in It’s a Small World.  All of the new characters and decorations added to this famous ride stayed true to Mary Blair’s original style.

  •  Look for the new “Spirit of America” scene which has been added to the ride. I personally love to see changes in these familiar rides. Tell me how you like the new scene!

  • Are you ready for some extra fun?  Can you find the 29 Disney and Disney·Pixar characters now represented in the ride? Enjoy hunting!

I hope to see you on the ride someday. Maybe we’ll find the 29 characters together.  Comment to this post as you find them!

bethany@exclusivebaby.com

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Disneynature earth Fun Facts


Disneynature earth is coming to theaters April 22 (Earth Day) and I think I'm more excited than my kid's.  Here are a bunch of fun facts to know before you go.

Disneynature earth Fun Facts

The humpback whales in the film migrate 4,000 miles from the warm waters of the tropics to the waters off Antarctica where they feed on krill and small fish.

  • To avoid getting separated and losing track of each other, mother grey whale and calf keep in contact by slapping their fins on the surface of the water.
  • Humpbacks sometimes feed on krill cooperatively using a method call “bubble netting.” A group of whales emit bubbles in a circle, which herds the krill together and forces them towards the surface at the center of the circle, making it easy for the whales to feed.
  • Humpback whales' very small eyes help them withstand the pressure of a deep sea dive.
  • Instead of teeth, a humpback whale has approximately 330 pairs of baleen plates, or fine brush-like structures, which strain krill from the water.
  • Humpback whale calves are able to swim within 30 minutes of being born. Calves drink about 160 gallons of milk a day.
  • Humpback whales are singers: their songs can last up to 10 minutes. Why or how humpback's sing is unknown, though it is possible it is related to communication and, in breeding season, to mating.
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Thomas & Friends Live! Reminder


All right OC Moms we still have some tickets for Thomas and Friends.. Give us a shout at Mom@OCMomsBlog.com for FREE Tickets. (4 Left)

Percy, James, Gordon – and, of course Thomas - are headed your way! Join these engine friends, Sir Topham Hatt and the townspeople of Sodor for a one-of-a-kind not-to-be-missed live entertainment experience: Thomas & Friends™ Live! On Stage: A Circus Comes To Town.

The 90-minute musical adventure, produced by HIT Entertainment and AEG/ThemeSTAR, includes brand-new singalong songs and a colorful cast of circus performers to tell the engaging story of how all the engines on the Island of Sodor must work together to prepare for the exciting event under the Big Top. Problems arise along the way, and Thomas has to prove he's a really useful engine once again. Thomas & Friends™ Live! On Stage: A Circus Comes To Town demonstrates the importance of friendship and cooperation as it gets young children dancing and singing along, creating lifelong memories for them and their families.

"We're thrilled to bring families an entertainment experience they can't find anywhere else," said Mark Avery, CEO, AEG/ThemeSTAR. "Thomas & Friends™ Live! On Stage: A Circus Comes To Town engages and captures kids' attention the way Thomas and his friends have captured their imagination for generations. Kids will never forget the fun they have at the show – and their parents will never forget the smiles it brings to their kids' faces. If a family can only see one live entertainment show this year, make it Thomas & Friends™ Live!"

Here is the Orange County Schedule
SEGERSTROM HALL IN COSTA MESA
Friday February 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday February 7 at 11:00 a.m.
Saturday February 7 at 2:00 p.m.
Saturday February 7 at 5:00 p.m.
Sunday February 8 at 2:00 p.m.
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Disneyland Resort Makes Annual Passes More Accessible and Affordable for Southern California Residents

Just in time for the holidays, Southern California Residents Can Now Purchase Annual Passports through a New Monthly Payment Program

As Disneyland Resort celebrates the holiday gift-giving season, a newly launched Monthly Payment Program for Annual Passholders will make it easier for Southern California residents to have their own frequent Disneyland Resort celebrations in the year to come.
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Village of Hope

A single mother with young children is preparing to enjoy her family’s first Christmas off of the streets at the Village of Hope. Last Christmas this family faced a hard reality living in the family vehicle through the holidays. This year her children will enjoy a warm meal, presents and a safe place to sleep, celebrating Christmas the way children should be able to, at the Village of Hope homeless center.

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Wonderland Bakery’s Gingerbread Cookie Featured on ABC’s ‘The View’ Whoopi Goldberg finds her “Favorite Gingerbread Cookie” in Wonderland

  Wonderland Bakery’s Gingerbread Cookie Featured on ABC’s ‘The View’ Whoopi Goldberg finds her “Favorite Gingerbread Cookie” in Wonderland .......

Wonderland Bakery, a specialty bakery with a fairy tale beginning, has won the heart of the mayor of Newport Beach, the governor of California and now Whoopi Goldberg, co-host of ABC’s ‘The View.’

Whoopi was on a mission to find “The Best Gingerbread Cookie” that was reminiscent of her childhood memory of this classic treat. There was a coast to coast search and taste test with the final results broadcast on ABC’s ‘The View,’ Wednesday, December 10, 2008. Whoopi officially declared ‘Wonderland Bakery’s Gingerbread Cookie’ as her favorite.

“This is it!” says Whoopi “I wanted him (gingerbread cookie) to have that groove when you eat him. Wonderland made the cookie with the right combination of gingerbread and raisins, I love this cookie!”

It will be a very Merry Christmas for Wonderland Bakery with an endorsement from Whoopi on ABC’s ‘The View’ which has an audience of 4.67 million viewers weekly.

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Come on Mom's get the Holiday Spirit at Disneyland!! The Merriest Of Holiday Celebrations Make Spirits Brighter Than Ever At Disneyland Resort

The Merriest Of Holiday Celebrations Make Spirits Brighter Than Ever At Disneyland Resort

When it comes to celebrating the magic and sparkle of the holidays, there’s no place like the Disneyland Resort, the Merriest Place on Earth. From November 21 through January 4, the annual Disneyland Resort holiday celebration will be more dazzling than ever.

Guests will enjoy the return of the holiday’s most popular offerings as well as be immersed in new entertainment at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks.

Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, first introduced in 2007, will be decorated even more elaborately this holiday season with additional snowdrifts and icicles. After dark, a sensational new holiday lighting and special effects show will carry the magic of the holidays from the Castle all the way to the Christmas Tree in Town Square. And, for the first time in 53 years, the Christmas Tree will be completely artificial, which enables Disneyland to present a holiday light show like no other with more than 62,000 energy-efficient LED lights.


The Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle presentation unfolds throughout the evening in three acts, each of them featuring a touch of winter snow on Main Street, U.S.A.  The finale of the show includes the legendary “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks show, which takes guests on a journey of sights and sounds of the season and ends with a touching rendition of “White Christmas” along with a climactic snowfall swirling down on Main Street, U.S.A., “small world mall” and New Orleans Square.

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Disney's High School Musical the Ice Tour is coming to Orange County

Disney's High School Musical the Ice Tour is coming to Orange County - We have tickets to give away!
 
High School Musical-mania reaches new heights when Disney’s High School Musical: The Ice Tour skates into the Southland December 18 through January 4. The only production to showcase the story, music and choreography of both hit Disney Channel Original Movies, The Ice Tour will now feature a high-energy High School Musical 3: Senior Year Special Bonus Experience, exclusive to Ice Tour ticketholders.  The video and live-action bonus pre-show experience includes behind-the-scenes footage from the new movie High School Musical 3: Senior Year and a one-of-a-kind sing-a-long dance party. 

Tickets on sale now!

The Ice Tour, produced by Feld Entertainment, Inc. and Kenny Ortega, spotlights popular East High Wildcat story and musical moments, including 11 Billboard Hot 100 hit songs from the Emmy® Award-winning Disney Channel Original Movies. In this modern day Romeo and Juliet fable, world and national skating champions portray the popular characters with a combination of the movies’ dance moves and ice skating choreography that includes spins, jumps and pairs skating.

The Ice Tour is the only way for Wildcat fans to experience the pep, pop, drama and dazzle of the first two “High School Musical’ movies live, plus an exclusive High School Musical 3 pre-show feature that will rock the arena. The complimentary Special Bonus Experience includes High School Musical 3: Senior Year behind-the-scenes footage, music videos and cast member interviews. Kenny Ortega introduces this exciting feature via video screen, and families are treated to a one-of-a-kind experience as movie and Ice Tour choreographer Chucky Klapow joins Kenny on screen to provide a High School Musical 3: Senior Year dance lesson. Fans will be rocking in the aisles to the new movie’s anthem song as skaters demonstrate the hot new steps on ice.

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Knott’s Merry Farm Invites Everyone to “A Charlie Brown Christmas”



Knott’s Merry Farm Invites Everyone to “A Charlie Brown Christmas” Before you know it Christmas vacation will be here. Knott's is a festive and fun place for the whole family to enjoy this Holiday season...

Knott’s Berry Farm will magically transform into Knott’s Merry Farm this holiday season as they present “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with seasonal entertainment, spectacular decorations including a 65 foot tall Christmas tree, and a colorful Christmas parade starting Thanksgiving day and running through December 30, 2008.

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The newest and very cool community for OC foodies


The newest and very cool community for OC foodies
Hi Mom's hope you are all doing well in these crazy holiday days! I know I've been horrible about posting lately...sorry. I've been working behind the scenes on some great new events coming to Orange County in 2009. For instance Orange County Restaurant Week, Happy Hour Week and Kid's Restaurant Week...


Join...It's FREE
www.ocfoodies.com << MORE >>

Irvine Animal Care Center’s Second Annual Home for the Holidays Adoption Event

Make your Family a little BIGGER with a new pet for the Holidays...

Question: What does global warming have to do with a cat population explosion?

Answer: A lot! With the earth’s temperature increasing, we have experienced longer dry summer months which have led to a longer mating season for cats, resulting in thousands of additional kittens. This population explosion has resulted in drastically overcrowded shelters and rescues, thus straining resources and leading to higher euthanasia rates.

The Irvine Animal Care Center is trying to address its own cat overpopulation issues by hosting a Home for the Holidays adoption event on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Numerous other rescue groups from Orange County and surrounding areas will be participating as well, bringing over 200 homeless dogs and puppies. Plus, Santa Claus will be on hand for pictures with children and pets. There will also be food, vendors, a silent auction, raffle and a pet toy booth. It will be great holiday fun for the entire family.

The Irvine Animal Care Center will also offer special discounted adoption rates for its more than 300 dogs, cats and rabbits. The shelter currently has over 200 cats. The average for this time of year is about 60.

Home for the Holidays is presented by Ralph’s Grocery. Pets are welcome; admission is free.

The Shelter is located at 6443 Oak Canyon Road in Irvine. For more information, go to www.irvineshelter.org or call 949-724-7740.

Mom Bloggers Emerge as Crucial to a Brand's Success

Today, a highly articulate, passionate, and educated group is strongly influencing the opinions and purchasing decisions of millions of moms in an unprecedented way. A diverse group of online mom bloggers is moving the conversation about products and services from the kitchen table to the Internet and, for the first time, successful companies are taking note.

National mom marketing agency, Mom Central Consulting, has just released an extensive 55-page trend report, illuminating the Power of Mom Bloggers. Mom Central, the country's premier voice for the mom marketplace, has delved into the tremendous viral power of this group and their ability to influence the success of a brand or company. The study, which was just completed, includes in-depth interviews with nearly 300 of the most influential and popular mom bloggers along with surveys of 495 Moms nationwide. Mom Central CEO Stacy DeBroff says, "Every day, we work with hundreds of Mom Bloggers, both in terms of research as well as running extensive blog tours for corporations. We wanted to share an elusive insider's perspective into these Mom bloggers-who exactly they are and how they build powerful brand awareness and influence consumer behavior."

Some key findings:
— 96% of Moms value recommendations they find on Mom Blogs
— Over 78% of Mom Bloggers now review products and services
— 94% of Moms rely on other Moms to make purchasing decisions
— More than 60% of Mom Bloggers consider making money important and want more connectivity with companies
— 37% of Mom Bloggers have been contacted as resources for the press

The researchers at Mom Central asked mom bloggers to describe why they blog, their financial motivations, how much time they devote to blogging, their personal and professional backgrounds, and their interactions with brands. Mom Central's Vice President of Research Tracey Hope-Ross says, "We wanted to delve deep into what motivates mom bloggers and why they represent such an untapped viral force for both corporations and causes. We were surprised by our findings and are excited to share these valuable insights."

For additional information on the Mom Blogger trend report, contact Tracey Hope-Ross VP Research | Mom Central, Inc. tracey@momcentral.com

Doctors Say Play is More Than Just Fun and Games

"Play experts" urge parents to recognize the importance of healthy play

  What was once considered child's play is now a key factor in healthy child development. Board games and interactive play are considered essential in leading a balanced life, according to a clinical report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

And Chief Funster and co-founder of SimplyFun, Gail DeGiulio says the importance of healthy play goes beyond just fun – it’s imperative to be included in daily routines. According to the 2007 AAP report, "Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive and emotional strength."  

Today, video games and digital entertainment compete with traditional forms of play, such as board games, puzzles, and imaginative toys. According to DeGiulio, face-to-face, real interaction between family and friends through traditional tabletop games reinforces life’s most important lessons.

"When you play a board game, conversations naturally take place while a child’s communication skills are being developed. For parents, there is nothing that can replace those special teaching moments," DeGiulio said.

Healthy play is not just vital for kids. Play is for families and adults as well, DeGiulio says. "Families that play together, stay together – that’s our belief. There is irreplaceable bonding, positive interaction, and life lessons taking place during play. Children can learn family values, and a family’s identity can be discovered through play. For adults, play brings much-needed balance and down time, while deepening social relationships."

SimplyFun's mission is to "promote the importance of play and create lifelong memories that enhance the quality of life for its consultants, customers and employees." The company focuses on a series of guiding principles that include: healthy play at all ages must be fun, promote face-to-face interaction, foster social skills and other important learning, and the play experience must be enjoyable over and over again. In short, play should enhance the experience of living.

For more information on the importance of play and SimplyFun, please visit www.simplyfun.com. For more information on the American Academy of Pediatrics and their report titled "The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development," please visit www.aap.org/pressroom/play-public.htm.

Want to play?

Want to play?

I love to play. Who doesn’t? We don’t get enough play time these days, specially for moms. With the last Exclusive Baby Cruise of 2008 only two weeks away we thought it would be fun to play a game!


On our April cruise we were delighted to have a celebrity on board. The boat was all a twitter about her appearance. She enjoyed shopping, talking and spending a day with her mother and cousin. Megan of Mommy Shots Photography caught them having a ball on the Exclusive Baby Cruise. We caught them enjoying a mini-massage from Dr. Jennifer Angell with Adjust4Kids, shopping from our boutique of hip and chic baby accessories from Patricia Ann Designs and La Tee Da and being amazed at Oopsy Daisy’s no-rinse shampoo (no water needed – yahoo)!

So who was this mystery person? Enquiring minds want to know! Well, it wouldn’t be any fun to just tell you so let’s play a game. Besides, by playing a game we get to give away prizes! What is more fun than giving away gifts? Winning them – duh! So come play. It’s simple.

Guess who the celebrity is from the picture. Think you’ve got it? Then click on the picture and tell us who you think it is. If you guess right then you’ll receive a fabulous discounted shopping spree! But what if I guess wrong? No worries, you’ll still be able to shop with a few perks thrown in.

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Celebrate Halloween Time at Disneyland Restort with Family Fun, Haunted Mansion Holiday and Disney's Happiest Haunt Tours

 Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort has filled Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks with not-so-scary spook-tacular entertainment that began Sept. 26 and continues through Sunday, November 2.
  The season of tricks and treats will be celebrated at Disneyland Resort with the traditional giant “Mickey Mouse” jack-o’-lantern in Disneyland Town Square, Haunted Mansion Holiday in New Orleans Square and Candy Corn Acres in Disney’s California Adventure, along with festive foods, a lively mix of Disney characters in Halloween costumes and year two of Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tours.

During regular park hours at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort offers parents and children plenty of family-friendly fun in addition to the parks’ many popular adventures. Halloween Time activities include special shows, meet-and-greets with Disneyland characters in spirited costumes, along with opportunities to decorate Halloween cookies and listen to storytellers at “Woody’s Halloween Roundup” at Big Thunder Ranch.

Dedicated fans of Halloween and the Disney parks will want to sign up to experience all the “hot and cold running chills” of the season on Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour, an expanded version of the Halloween tour launched in 2007. From Sept. 26 to Oct. 31, the three-hour Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour will be offered twice a day, beginning at the “witching hours” of 5:15 and 5:30 p.m. The tour, conducted by a “unique” Disneyland Resort tour guide, includes the stories behind some of Disney parks’ spookiest attractions, told from the perspective of Disney villains. Stops at thrilling attractions including the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Haunted Mansion Holiday, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Snow White’s Scary Adventure are among the highlights of the tour.<< MORE >>

What thoughts are you wearing

“What thoughts are you wearing?”


If you’re looking for a little more inspiration in the world, it may be as easy as getting dressed in the morning. Awareables.com is a new favorite of mine that I wanted to share with you. This new clothing company is about positive thinking, positive energy and changing your outlook from the inside out. Their high-style tees have all kinds of sayings from “Gratitude Rocks” and “Grounded for life” to “Inhale. Exhale. Repeat.” and “Shift Happens.” (That last one always gets the most comments when I wear it.<< MORE >>

National Children's Charity KidsPeace and GRAND Magazine Announced Winner for the Nations GRANDParent of the year.

 National Children's Charity KidsPeace and GRAND Magazine Announced Winner  for the Nations GRANDParent of the year. 


Selia Ricardez from Whittier, California, has been named the nation's GRANDParent of the Year for 2008 — A radiologic technologist, Ms. Ricardez has demonstrated the ability to see into and penetrate the hearts of others with healing love and wisdom. Selia gets up at 5:00 am every day to make lunches for her four grandchildren, help their busy, working
parents take them to school, attend to bumps and bruises as well as their spiritual needs, and enrich the lives of this quintessentially American family, which encompasses several cultures, including Chinese, Hispanic, and Cambodian.


Grandparents are the primary caregivers for nearly six million children across the U.S. — and the numbers are growing. In fact, 75 percent of all nonparent care of children in America is now provided by grandparents.


"I always ask: 'What did you do on the playground? What happened at  school today?' says Ricardez. "Maybe someone pushed them. Now they're relaxed, they feel safe, they'll talk about it. I think they open up with me because I share things from when I was a little girl, they listen, they relate to my stories, to my opening up and sharing."


20 Finalists from 16 States


Because there were so many inspiring stories submitted, 20 additional finalists from 16 states have been named. The stories of the ten semi-finalists can be found on the website, http://www.grandmagazine.com.


"In choosing our winners, we read compassionate stories of Grands who are raising their grandchildren," says GRAND magazine publisher Christine Crosby. "Grands who are active in their grandchildren's lives despite disabilities, Grands who moved away from comfortable lives in order to live closer to the grandchildren, Grands who juggle work and family, Grands who are teachers of life, spiritual guides, role models, advocates for the rights of others, peacemakers, and adventurers."


"Grandparents are becoming increasingly critical to the health and welfare of our nation's children," says Dr. Lorrie Henderson, acting president of the 126-year-old national children's crisis charity KidsPeace. "At a time when children are facing unprecedented stresses and many parents are busy juggling home and career, the deep reservoir of knowledge and parenting wisdom held by today's 79 million grandparents amounts to nothing less that a national treasure. There's a Mother's Day. There's a Father's Day. There's even a National KidsDay(R). It's time we recognized the invaluable contributions made by today's grandparents."


GRAND Magazine, the Official Magazine of Grandparents, is a national resource for today's active grandparents.

So did any of you celebrate Grandparents day?  If you are like me and no idea it existed, you can make it twice as nice next year..I will

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You're invited to Work On Your Terms...A Conference for Women


You're invited to Work On Your Terms...A Conference for Women


When I started Part-time Professionals late last year, one of the primary driving factors was the need that I saw for helping professional women find challenging, fulfilling work that would fit in with their lives and family's schedules.  I speak to several women each day seeking work flexibility, and the challenges we face are the same. 


Part-time Professionals and Vector Performance has put together a women's work/life event that was created to provide you with what you need to Work On Your Terms.  Please join us for a day of learning, building community, and inspiration.


Who Should Attend?



  • Women looking for concrete ideas, strategies and inspiration from other highly successful women

  • Women interested in returning to the workforce in flexible or new careers after taking a break to raise children

  • Women with corporate backgrounds looking to translate that experience into consulting

  • Women working full-time who want to negotiate a reduced work schedule, job-share, or virtual position

  • Entrepreneurial women considering taking the leap to start a new business

  • Women looking for support,camraderie, and solutions regarding the challenges we all face with the many hats we wear


ALL net proceeds will be donated to the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Fund

Questions: Contact info@part-timeprofessionals.com
On-line registration at www.part-timeprofessionals.com

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Disneyland Half Marathon runners travel a magical course through Disneyland Resort and the City of Anaheim

 Disneyland Half Marathon runners travel a magical course through Disneyland Resort and the City of Anaheim
  The Disneyland Resort is celebrating health, fitness and family fun with more than 18,000 participants who registered for the third annual Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, August 29-31. The highlight of the weekend is a 13.1 mile event affectionately dubbed “The Happiest Race on Earth.”

Participants in the Disneyland Half Marathon will travel a course unlike any half marathon in the world. It passes through the two Disneyland Resort theme parks – Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure – and it’s full of Disney inspiration with flaming cannons at the start, live entertainers all along the route, and Disney characters as cheerleaders.
Many of the participants will be dressed like their favorite Disney characters, including Minnie Mouse and Tinker Bell, and some even stop mid-race to pose with Mickey Mouse and his pals for photos commemorating both the race and Disney Parks’ ongoing Year of a Million Dreams celebration.

In three and one-half hours or less, runners will pass Disneyland icons such as Sleeping Beauty Castle and the Matterhorn, and they will also pass Anaheim landmarks such as the Honda Center, Angel Stadium of Anaheim and the Anaheim Convention Center before finally crossing the finish line in the Downtown Disney District.
The Disneyland Half Marathon has become a popular road race for its flat loop course and mild climate, ideal for personal best times. Hosted by the Disneyland Resort and the City of Anaheim, it reached registration capacity in July. More than 13,500 runners are scheduled to participate in the Half Marathon on August 31, and 5,000 participants will be competing in the Family Fun Run 5K and Kids' Races on August 30, with participants from all 50 U.S. states and 16 countries.

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Teenagers Launch “Inconvenient Youth” Network to Fight Global Warming

Teenagers Launch “Inconvenient Youth” Network to Fight Global Warming
Stanford Workshop Trains 80; Social Network Goes Live

  Inconvenient Youth, a new non-profit, non-partisan network for and by teens has started recruiting and training young people to fight global warming. Today the group launched with a three-day workshop on climate change at Stanford University attended by youth from around the world.

The inaugural training will run from August 15-17 and is based on the acclaimed “An Inconvenient Truth” presentation by former Vice President Al Gore. Eighty students from as far away as New York and Japan are learning how to educate others about global warming and what they can do to fight it. Sessions include environmental science backgrounders, breakout discussions, brainstorming and plenary meetings. Keynote presentations will be delivered by Mary Doerr, founder and executive director, Inconvenient Youth; Steve Shenbaum, president, GameOn Media; Adam Metz, president, Metz Networks; and Raj Shukla, project coordinator, The Climate Project.

Inconvenient Youth is a non-profit network founded and driven by a team of four teenagers based in Menlo Park, California. Their goal is to mobilize young people to educate their communities about environmental science and solutions using a youth-focused version of “An Inconvenient Truth.” The network is working to build enough momentum to make a real impact in solving global warming. Among the actions recommended by the group are grass-roots campaigns, forming campus climate clubs, and video recording sessions with city council and congressional members.

“The world’s youth have a huge personal stake in global warming,” said Inconvenient Youth founder Mary Doerr, a high school senior. “After all, it is our future that hangs in the balance. The Inconvenient Youth network will give a voice to the many youth around the world who want to make difference now.”

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Soy Milk - Soy it ain't so!

Soy it ain’t so!
 
 
When I discovered that my daughter was allergic to milk, I panicked! What would I do without milk???? She was switched to soy formula at age 6 months in an attempt to help with her eczema.
It was just a few months later that I discovered the reason her skin rash cleared up so well with the soy was not because the new formula was helping her eczema but because she was allergic to the milk in her previous formula! So after I gave myself the Mom of the Year award for feeding my baby formula she was allergic to, I started to plan for the future! I have always been a big fan of soy and soy products but I never thought I would have to apply my knowledge of the fabulous bean to my daughter.
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Mommy Mixer


When’s the last time you got out of the house for a date night, or – even better – ALONE?  Been a while? Can’t even remember?  I’m with you sister, and the number one reason that we don’t get out is that we just can’t find a sitter. But not just any sitter, I want someone I can trust to engage my kids and not just plop on the couch in front of my tv on the phone! I want someone who will get down to their level, play their games, act silly, and enjoy herself. And it wouldn’t hurt if she was CPR certified and came with awesome references. Now where do I find someone like that?

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Almost Back to School!

Almost Back to School!

  Part of me loves the month of August, and part of me dreads it.  August is the month of our wedding anniversary, the Little League World Series and of course fantastic Angels Baseball.  August also means warmer and more beautiful weather here in OC.  Unfortunately, August also means “back to school.”

I actually look forward to the return of a normal routine in our home.  Both my husband and I work full time outside the home, so our schedule with the kids doesn’t change much in the summer. 

My oldest is in a regular school that has a regularly scheduled summer break from June to the end of August.  His summer consists of time spent in various day camps in our area.  My youngest is in a special needs school that goes year round with the exception of August. That time off in August for her is spent full time with our regular " p < year. school the during is it as great isn?t morning each time certain a at door out getting of stress us for mellow pretty August provider.  daycare school? after and before>

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For Moms that are currently working or thinking about working again someday.....

For Moms that are currently working or thinking about working again someday.....
ARE YOU "LINKED IN"?


I recently attended my monthly National Association of Women Business Owners meeting, and had a mentor class with Cara Good, CEO of Wundermarx PR. She spoke about how all of us can utilize social networking to identify opportunities for ourselves and our businesses, and also how we can communicate our expertise through the use of Linkedin.  If you would have asked me a few years ago what Linkedin was, I wouldn't have had a clue. Technology and the use of it to connect with people has changed so much in the past few years.   I'm determined to learn more about all of this stuff since it seems that is the direction where everything is going in business today!

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OC Mom's Blog and Modadezza Present The "cb Coco Brazil" Bikini Giveaway

 OC Mom's Blog/OC Ezine & Modadezza Present
The "cb Coco Brazil" Bikini Giveaway


While school may be right around the corner, we here in the OC celebrate summer days long into September and sometimes October. So, the OC E-zine /OC Mom’s blog has teamed up with the folks at Modadezza to offer three lucky OC E-zine readers the opportunity to win a new cb Coco Brazil bikini from their Bahia Collection.

Always exciting, fresh and HOT, cb Coco Brazil bikinis combined the best of Brazilian style and colors with the fit and quality expected of North American brands. To see the all the cute styles to choose from go to http://cbcocobrazil.com/carolina.html.

To enter all you have to do is leave a FANTASTIC comment on this post. Please be sure to include your email so that I can contact you if you’re one of the lucky winners.

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Starry, Starry Night Charity Event


Starry, Starry Night Charity Event


Didn't want you to miss  this great charity event. It's posted on OCEZINE.com, here's the scoop...
When:
Thursday, September 11, 2008 from 7 – 10 pm

Walk Orange County’s ultra exclusive red carpet, bid on priceless live and silent auction items while mingling with The Real Housewives of Orange County.  All proceeds will benefit Working Wardrobes, a non-profit organization that gets adults in crises back to work. http://ocezine.com/2008/07/26/starry-starry-night-charity-event.aspx

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Dr. Jerry Weichman, Orange County Teen Psychologist and Parenting Expert, Publishes Book to Teach Teens 'How to Deal'

Dr. Jerry Weichman, Orange County Teen Psychologist and Parenting Expert, Publishes Book to Teach Teens 'How to Deal' 


Hi OC Mom's, I am really excited about letting you all know about Dr. Weichman. For all the Mom's in Orange County who have a  middle school - high school age student this book is for you. I had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Weichman and I'm so glad I did, he is very passionate about his work and truly a benefit to kids and parents.   HIs book is called "How to Deal" it's an easy to read  book  worded very well so kids actually relate to what they are reading.  I couldn't recommend it more, here is more info....
 
   Dr. Jerry Weichman — a popular Newport Beach based teen psychologist, parenting expert andmotivational speaker — today announced the publication of How to Deal, hisfirst book for young adults. The book, which was pre-ordered by variousschool administrators throughout Orange County, follows Dr. Weichmanthrough his personal struggles while giving readers practical tools andadvice for dealing with the challenges of being a teenager today.     "Sex, drugs and alcohol, stress, social drama and extraordinaryacademic pressure — being a teenager is harder than ever. Teens today arefacing adult pressures and issues on a daily basis. Especially with accessto the Internet, cell phones and two-ways, teens are exposed to — and areexpected to keep up with — a constant stream of adult information," saidJerry Weichman, Ph.D., author of How to Deal. "As teens struggle to definewho they are, they often demand the freedom and responsibility of being anadult, when they really need and crave structure.
 The frustration of being caught between childhood and adulthood causes many teens to act out byrebelling against parents, teachers and other adults in their lives. Thegoal of How to Deal is to give teens a fresh perspective and arm them withthe practical tools they need to make it through high school and becomehealthy, happy adults."  

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It Chick Clothes - online plus size boutique for tween girls - is launching a Photo Essay Contest! Winner receives a Wii Fit!

It Chick Clothes - online plus size boutique for tween girls - is launching a Photo Essay Contest! Winner receives a Wii Fit!
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“If the body is a temple, I need to beg for holy Zen Mama forgiveness!”

“If the body is a temple, I need to beg for holy Zen Mama forgiveness!”

Did I commit double deadly chocolate cake sin? Sun myself to a crispy, bubbling summer mess? Drink Cosmos till I dropped? No, it’s worse … I took a Lean Extreme Sculpt class! My girlfriend teaches fitness, so I innocently thought I’d support the cause. How bad could 60 minutes be? Well, after the lunges, crunches, weights and push ups paired with intermittent, heart-racing athletic drills, I almost threw up, and couldn’t walk for three days post this body “betterfication” attempt. Now granted, I’m a little out of shape, and while my alter ego is my illustrated serene Yogi lady who can do a full lotus with ease, I am far from that aspiring limber, flexible status. But since I want to be her someday, I bring her along for the ride. 

My new interest in exercise was initiated as part of my “Peace, Love and Momminess” journey to find improved mental and physical wellness for myself, my kids, my family. It also stemmed from the fact that I couldn’t find a pair of jeans to save my soul. So I lost 40 pounds and every day get a little closer to my goals.  

Back to the do-or-die fitness class. After that class, I felt like I should give my body some ridiculously huge peace offering, perhaps the entire deadly chocolate cake? A weekend of hot stone massage? Something? Anything … in exchange for the shock-induced, fiery hell I sent it to.
 

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Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland

 Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland

The interior of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland will open in time for the December holiday season, offering guests a “reawakened” version of its classic walkthrough presentation kissed with vibrant scenes of Aurora, her charming prince, the evil Maleficent and other characters from the beloved fairy tale film.  “It is fitting that we are announcing the return of a classic on the 53rd anniversary of Disneyland,” said Tony Baxter, Senior Vice President of Creative Development for Walt Disney Imagineering, who unveiled a model of the castle on July 17, the birthday of Disneyland park.

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Creature Discomforts

Creature Discomforts

 

Disability awareness is not just exclusive to Orange County and the United States.  Disabilities affect all ages, all races, all religions and all political views.  The UK is at the forefront in their efforts to change the way the world sees disability.  Leonard Cheshire Disability has just unveiled six new characters from its “Creature Discomforts” series.  A small group of clips and advertisements geared to help change attitudes to disability.  The group hopes to challenge people’s low expectations about what disabled people can do. 

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A Mom Solves another Problem

A Mom Solves another Problem

Moms are the best at solving life’s annoying problems and then turning around and making it a thriving business. Debby of Oopsy Daisy Beautiful Baby is no exception. With two little girls close in age she constantly needed to duplicate herself.

One problem she had came from her very independent first child. The one who says, “I want to do it!” She wanted to do everything herself, including feeding herself at a very early age. Of course this resulted in food everywhere – the floor, the walls, the clothes and most of all in her hair. Not wanting to bathe her every time she ate, Debby wanted a shampoo that was quick, fun and did not require water!

Armed and ready to find the solution to her problem she went to the Internet ready to purchase. To her frustration and surprise she could not find anything that would help her. As any woman would do (you go girl!), she decided to come up with her own solution and we are all thankful she did.

Listen to my interview with Debby of Oopsy Daisy Beautiful Baby to discover how you can benefit from her determination to solve her problem – a line of amazing no-rinse products including shampoo, body wash and conditioner. Whether your child is a baby or a teenager you will love this product. It is great for everyday living as well as those trips to the beach or camping vacations.

Click here to listen to the interview.

Subscribe to Exclusive Baby Podcast by Email

Bethany Sunny

Mammalicious coming September 25 for Orange County Mamma's

I Love OCMamma..she is a very clever Mamma indeed. Definitely one of my favorite Momprenuers.  She is bringing OC Moms together for a FABULOUS event deliciously named Mammalicious.

Tickets include:
A raffle ticket to win a NEW Tuetonia Stroller (by Graco), Goody Bag with an OCMAMMA Tank Top and products from some of the hottest companies in the OC! You will also get “all you can drink” Champagne Cocktails and Mocktails and cupcakes by only the best-
Susiecakes! You will also be able to shop at the event, so come ready to check out some hip products and clothing!  If you are a member of the OCMamma Social Network you get a discount. Hope to see you there some of the OC Moms will be there!

When is Mammalicious: September 25, 2008 6pm-9pm
Where is Mammalicious: Bella Mar 2601 West Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, CA 92663

Price: $30 in advance / $40 at the door (members of the social network pay $25)

Get your tickets
NOW as they will only be selling a limited amount. 

For more info visit
www.OCMamma.com

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“I remembered Mr. BearyTale!” Here’s to small victories.

“I remembered Mr. BearyTale!” Here’s to small victories.

Yesterday, my son’s summer school teacher told me there were plans for a Teddy Bear picnic. “So don’t forget the bear!” she hopefully hollered on my way out. Immediately I thought to myself, “That’s great, I’d love to, I’ll make every effort, but really there’s slim to no chance that’s ever gonna happen.” Hey, I’m lucky if I get it together enough to get my guy matching socks in the morning. So, of course, I nodded and confidently said, “Sure” as if it was a no-brainer.
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TAKE THE WHEEL OF LIFE PRIORITIES

THE POOL, THE PC, THE SUMMER PRIORITIES...WHERE DO I START?

With all of magazine reading I've been doing this summer while at the pool and beach, I saw a few great articles related to time and priorities in Real Simple and SUCCESS magazine. Since I really seem to be challenged with time right now, as I try to balance an active, fun summer with my family, and keep up with my mom entrepreneur tasks, I'd like to share a few things that hopefully can help you out with all of the time issues you may face as well...



TAKE THE WHEEL OF LIFE PRIORITIES QUIZ, AND SURVEY YOUR CURRENT REALITY....

One of the professional moms from the Part-time Professionals Moms' Meetup group I coordinate, Jennifer Buck, recently gave our group a presentation on taking leadership in your life.  This simple exercise really resonated with me.  It helped me identify areas in my life where I want to spend more time.  I know when I worked
for Coca-Cola, I was very good about planning my time, reviewing my priorities, setting goals, and tracking them.  I think we often forget that those great skills we acquired in business, can really translate to helping us out in our personal lives.

I know I am lucky to live in this part of the World!

This past week, I noticed a new billboard on the south 55 as you pass the Edinger exit.  The sign reads, “Chances are there is a CHOC miracle in the car next to you” and it is clearly an advertisement for Children’s Hospital of Orange County.  As I see this sign each morning on my drive to the office, it pulls at my heart a bit as I think to myself, “If Jenelle was in the car, a CHOC miracle would be in my car!”

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Kids Drum Circle this Friday at Pure Light! July 18th at 7pm

Kids Drum Circle this Friday at Pure Light!
July 18th at 7pm

It’s a great way to spend a summertime night! Kids ages 5-15 are invited to a Kids Full Moon Drum Circle at Pure Light, a new nature-inspired candle studio in Laguna Beach located next to the Sawdust Festival. Kids start out the night by creating their very own moon and star candles. Next everyone feasts under a fun, festive bamboo lanai with pizza, mac and cheese and more. << MORE >>

Kids Off The Couch Day at UCLA


Want to make a splash with your kids? The Fowler Museum at UCLA is creating a special day for Kids Off The Couch families on Wednesday July 16th: a film screening and private tour of a their current mermaid exhibition. Join us at 12 pm to screen one of our favorite family movies — The Secret of Roan Inish — an exquisite film that gives life to the Irish legend that seals can shed their skins and become human.

Then, at 1:45, just after the film, The Fowler has invited us for lemonade and cookies in the courtyard, followed by privately guided tour of Mami Wata: Arts for Water Spirits in Africa and Its Diasporas, a multi-media exhibit showcasing an ancient deity who appears as a mermaid and snake charmer.

From the opening super-sized video projection of the ocean which our kids used as a backdrop to mime their surf moves, to incredible headdresses that wowed even our most dedicated sparkle wearers, Mami Wata charmed a new generation.

Visit the Kids Off The Couch Website at www.kidsoffthecouch.com for the full adventure, conversations starters, tips for going as a group and advice on how to extend the adventure like a visit to the Marine Mammal Care Center.

The Fowler Museum at UCLA
Wednesday, July 16th , 2008
Movie Screening at 12:00pm
Private Museum tour at 2:00 pm
Cost - FREE

Mom My Ride

This is one of the funniest videos ever!! I have always SWORN I will never drive a mini van as long as I live. This video has re-confirmed that I will never drive a mini van as long as I live... That being said, tons and I mean tons of my mom friends do drive them (and love them) So I am putting this up for you..you know who you are! It's all in good fun, enjoy << MORE >>

Are Evites impersonal? Or practical

  Are Evites impersonal? Or practical

My daughter’s first birthday was about two months away and we thought about what we were going to do it. She probably won’t remember anything, so should it be a big shindig or a small family gathering? After much discussion and reminiscing about what our friends and families did, we decided Yes, BIG party!

We had received a party magazine in the mail just a few days before and let her look through it for the theme. She just about jumped out of her skin when she came across the Backyardigans page, so Backyardigans it is! And that was about as far as we got until we went on vacation for two weeks. During our vacation I wrote out the guest list, decided on what food to have, and ordered decorations. I even looked online for inflatable pools for the backyard. But there was something I was missing…. What was it? Hmmm…. Think, think, think. THE INVITATIONS!!!!!

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3 Things I learned on our Vacation

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3 Things I learned on our Vacation

   


  1. Traveling with a 9 year old is much easier than with a baby.
  2. When visiting family be with family, don’t be a tourist.
  3. Motion sickness can last for days.

After much planning we were off on our vacation. Our vacations normally consist of camping trips but this year we had saved enough mileage points on our credit cards to visit family in Chicago. Not the exotic vacation of our dreams but a vacation that would end up being a memory more valuable than money could buy.

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Fight Pink Chocolate


One of the things that I absolutely love about Mom's and all Women is that we stick together, well at least we should stick together. This came to my attention not from some chain letter but from an actual colleague. Of course it grabbed my attention and I want it to grab yours. At some point in all of our lives we need help and support, right now these awesome ladies need ours.  If this was one of us we would want others to do the same thing. This is what it's all about Mom's, so if you can help this Mom and Daughter out please do.  I posted what I received below.


Hi, I'm Ashley, and my mother, Laurie has recently been diagnosed with breast, liver and bone cancer. Right now we need a hand up (not hand out), and I'd like to tell you a little about our story and what you can do to help us get through this hour of need. << MORE >>

I am always amazed by the honesty that comes from children.


I am always amazed by the honesty that comes from children.  They tell it like it is, they aren’t afraid to ask questions and are never concerned with being politically correct.  We should all be so lucky.

 

A year ago, my 7 year old next door neighbor came knocking at our door. When I answered, she was standing there with a friend.  She then explained in a matter of fact tone that her friend had never seen a "mentally retarded kid" before, so she wanted to introduce her to my daughter Jenelle.  With a smirk on my face, I invited her into the house and watched our neighbor introduce her friend to Jenelle.

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Meet the Mom's of OC Moms Blog :)




We have a couple new Mom's we'd like you to meet.

I said “Yes,” and I’m so glad I did

 I said “Yes,” and I’m so glad I did

Yesterday was one of those days where nothing went right. The morning began with a long “to do” list and rushing out the door. My daughter was off to a camp through Campfire and my son and I had some very special errands to do that I had been putting off with the words “we can do that when school is out because we’ll have time.” Yeah right! Summer is not more time, just different busyness.

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OC Mom's Blog New Momprenuer!!

Amy Kaplan is the Founder and Director of West Coast Surrogacy. She is also the mother of two, a 20 year old son and 6 year old daughter. Amy began her career in reproductive medicine in 1990, since then has devoted her life to the field of surrogacy . After many years of dedication and experience the time came for Amy to start her own business, and West Coast Surrogacy was born. This gave her the opportunity to stay home with her daughter and run a business that she is greatly passionate about. To sum up the busy life of this momprenuer, Amy started her business 1 year ago and 2 years ago she was a surrogate herself and carried twins, yes twins. Luckily Amy has a very supportive hubby and family which makes this journey much more pleasant<< MORE >>

Seussical The Musical



Seussical The Musical features music by Stephen Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Aherns (Ragtime, etc.) and brings to life all of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and all the Whos of Whoville! These classic, colorful tales are seamlessly brought together by Jojo, a young boy and thinker of strange and wonderful thinks! As each story unfolds you will marvel at how relevant and profound Suess's subtle themes are: making this musical one that appeals to all ages. The score emerges as a Seussian gumbo of musical styles, ranging from Latin to pop, swing to gospel, and R&B to funk! So let your toes tap, your fingers snap, and your imagination run wild!
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Make an everlasting sand castle with the kiddos this summer!

Here is a quick craft idea I really wanted to share with you. 
We made these over the weekend and they came out soooo cute. I took mine very seriously and decorated it with a zillion shells, pearls and beach glass..it's brilliant if I do say so myself.<< MORE >>

MommyMixer will host it’s second Orange County event Sunday in Costa Mesa

MommyMixer plans to hold it’s second Orange County event this weekend. The event will take place on Sunday, June 22nd at 1pm and is being hosted at No Rest For Bridget, 250 E 17thStreet in Costa Mesa. Moms are encouraged to register online in advance as our May event sold out. The fee for moms is $50, which is a 50% discount from the usual $100 registration fee, and includes a binder complete with resumes from every sitter in attendance. << MORE >>

Eco-Anxiety! Are We Green with Panic?

   Eco-Anxiety! Are We Green with Panic?
Do you dig into other people’s trash to recycle their cans? Do you recycle bath water for the next person? Are you fighting with your husband over what light bulbs to use? Do you not see the beauty anymore in a view of city lights? Do you dare let your kids run through a water-consciousless sprinkler this summer? I just did that last one and, quite frankly, the whimsical, summer fun ritual was lost on my guilt of leaving the water running while the kids played, then ran away, then played, then ran away. Silly? Probably.<< MORE >>

Law of Attraction Center Grand Re-Opening

Good afternoon Moms!

I  just wanted to give all of the Moms here in OC heads-up on this super cool event going on tonite!!!  This event is for all of us out there that read or watched - "The Secret".
Tonite in Irvine the Law of Attraction Center is having it's Grand re-opening with Marie Diamond (the Feng Shui expert in the movie) it should be very cool and some of the OC Mom's Blog team will be there.  See if you can squeeze in a sitter and visit this event, last minute fun is usually the BEST!!

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“Staycation” Is On! Here’s to lovin’ the local scene.

 
Is your family taking a “staycation” this summer? Staying close to home for vacation? Join the club. About two-thirds of us plan to cut back on summer trips. That’s okay, it’s going to be great! Let’s skip the hype and frenzy of planes, trains and outrageous automobile prices this summer.
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Prenatal Exercise

I was recently asked about my personal experience with prenatal exercise. When I became pregnant, I was about 20 lbs overweight. I was working out about 3-4 days a week trying to slim down to a single digit dress size. So once I became pregnant I wasn’t sure what I could or could not do. Luckily my trainer Natalie knew what to do. I didn’t change much of my routine for the first trimester. I still ran (who am I kidding? I jogged at best), did crunches, weight training and strength training and lunges…. Lots and lots of lunges. Natalie purchased a heart monitor for me to wear to make sure I did not exceed the maximum recommend heart rate. It was a Polar FS1, which you can get at almost any sporting goods store or on Amazon.com (about $60). I wore the monitor during every workout, checking frequently to make sure my heart rate was not too high. But this was mostly just so that I had an excuse for not running another lap. << MORE >>

The REALITY of the Circus - WARNING IT'S GRAPHIC!!

Mom's I can't keep my mouth shut, I just wasn't wired that way I guess. I have lived in Orange County my entire life, grew up going to the old Wild Animal Park (now Wild Rivers), visiting the zoo and yes going to the circus when it came to town. << MORE >>

Father's Day

  Father's Day

I’m so excited to be a part of the OC Mom’s Blog. We’re going to have a great time sharing our lives and the ups and downs of motherhood together.

With Father’s Day only a few days away I couldn’t resist writing about the perils we women have on making dads feel special on Father’s Day. We women have a list a mile long for Mother’s Days – the spa, a massage, jewelry, pictures… We are the easiest persons in the world to buy for but not our counterparts. Oh my, finding a present for any occasion for men is enough to make you have premature gray hair (and you thought it was from the kids!).

In my vast experience (yeah right!) I have found that presents don’t make the day for dads. Besides, when you give it to them they are only thinking "how much did this cost me?" or "she didn’t have to spend that much money on me." For men the cost of items does not relate to how special they are to us. That’s a woman thing. So in this time where we are beginning to dig for lost change in our couches here are some ideas for the upcoming Father’s Day:

  • Relax, relax and again I say relax!  Dads are under so much pressure that just giving them space to relax is one of the best gifts you can give your husband. Wouldn’t you love it? This is a test to see how well you know your husband! What is relaxing to him? Is it a game of golf, sitting in front of the TV all day without interruptions or a hike?  Whatever he does to relax let him do it – yep that means doing it without the family if that is what he likes!
  • Let Dad plan his day with zero, yep I said zero, input from you. Ask him ahead of time “what would a perfect Father’s Day look like to you?”  Then you can plan the day ahead of time and your gift to him is the gift of the “Perfect Father’s Day.”
  • Coupons from their children make a wonderful gift.  Ask your kids to write down 3 – 5 things they love to do with daddy. Then make coupons with them to give as a gift based on what they love to do with Dad.
  • Are you good at making little videos?  If so, create a video of each of your family members saying what they love most about Dad.  You can ask your children questions to help them along.  One year my children interviewed each other about what they liked most about Dad.  They created it like a TV show. They had a ball doing it and Dad loved watching it on Father’s Day.

Dads, just like Moms, love the unexpected little things that can make a day special. I’ve come to realize it is not at all about the biggest, most expensive gift that makes the day but it is all about the memories and helping Dad see how special he is to the family.  Have a very special Father’s Day.


Bethany Sunny
www.ExclusiveBabyCruise.com

Disney's High School Musical coming to OCPAC on June 17.

OMG..High School Musical is making it's way to Orange County this June 17 - 22.  So moms, if you have any fans living under your roof now is the time to watch it at the Orange County Performing ArtsCenter.


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“Mommy Makeovers up 96%”

Hello and welcome to my first post on OCMomsBlog. I’m excited to chat with fellow Moms in my quest for Peace, Love and Momminess. Together on this collective journey, I hope we can breathe a little easier and find a little more peace in our fully packed lives. I hope you’ll support the cause by reading and sharing the love with your comments—because we’re all in this together.<< MORE >>

Bathing suit season...ugh



Summer is here and as I look outside and long to sit by the pool or take my daughter to the beach, I think about what I am going to look like in a bathing suit.

Will I find one that fits? Will I have to wear one of the suits that looks like a dress but is the only thing that will cover my stretch marks and saggy stomach? I am sure that I am not the only mom out there who is concerned about her bathing suit body. I am fairly active, I walk around the local park with my daughter and our dogs about 4-5 times a week for 30 minutes, but is that enough? There has to be more to life than just cardio. Today I took a Pilates class, which I loved! It was a lot of fun. There were 5 of us in a Circuit Pilates class. We used 3 different types of equipment, mats, Reformers and Wonder Chairs (appropriately named because when you look at them you instinctively tilt your head sideways and think What are we going to do with that?!?!).
 
I wasn’t worried that I was not experienced in Pilates because they can increase or decrease the tension on the equipment or modify the movements to accommodate your fitness level. Some of the moves were a little weird, like when you are doing leg circles with your legs straight up in air. I started to have flashbacks of the delivery room only this time I had pants on so it was much better. I have to admit, I felt like I was stretching and toning muscles that I didn’t even know I had! At one point we were on the mat and had to roll up using our abdominal muscles, which I quickly discovered had disappeared! I couldn’t even get more than 6 inches off the floor before my legs flew up in the air and I rolled over to my side.

Thank goodness there was no one next to me or there would have been a very uncomfortable moment of “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to kick you in the face. Really! I have very sorry!.” But the instructor was very nice and quickly gave me a band to assist me in the exercise so I could continue on with the others. After the class was over my arms and legs were shaking a bit, but I felt like I was standing up straight, tightening my tummy and pulling my hips under. I am definitely going to incorporate Pilates into my pre-bathing suit workout. This way I may be able to tone my stomach and not have to tuck my tummy flab into my bathing suit bottoms like last year.
 

Monika Baptista

Meet the new Moms

Meet to new moms on OC Mom's Blog!!<< MORE >>

OCMomsBlog.com is Looking for Bloggers :)

Happy Wednesday Everyone. If you are a Mom in Orange County with a nack for writing/blogging you can make extra money by simply being you. OCMomsBlog is looking for several new Mom's to Blog. If you are interested please email us at Mom@OCMomsBlog.com. This is a great opportunity and offers a flexable schedule, being a Mom we know you need flexability.

Thanks,
The OCMomsBlog Team

OC Mom's Blog is proud to honor an amazing Momprenuer...

When she’s not busy running around after her 2 ½ year old son, south Orange County resident, Morgan McKean eats, sleeps and breathes media communications, as she so appropriately named her media company, Breathe Media Communications. << MORE >>

Summer Camps

Summer's around the corner, and we have the BIG Summer camp list. Summer Camps in Orange County.<< MORE >>

Celebrate Mother's Day in Orange County

We've put together a list of great places to celebrate Mother's Day in Orange County. Have a GREAT Mom's Day!<< MORE >>

Free For All Movie Mondays!!!

Coming this summer is something Really Cool for families. We have it posted on OCezine (Orange County's Online Magazine), but I had to let all you Mom's know about it. The Orange County Performing Arts Center is bringing back it's Free For All Movie Mondays!!! It's really cool for all the Mom's that have kids old enough to enjoy a whole movie (that's not a cartoon) pack up a picnic dinner and grab that old picnic blanket this summer and come enjoy a movie under the stars. Read About it Here
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Going Banana's - Banana Smoothie Recipes Quick, Healthy and Super Yummy

Banana Smoothies have somehow become a staple in my house. I'm in love with these delicious little concoctions, they take no more than 5 minutes to make and good for the kiddo's (and Mom). Smoothies are a good source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. They also make it easy to sneak in a bunch of healthy stuff like protein powders.<< MORE >>

Happy Earth Week

   
Hello wonderful Orange County Mom's and Happy Earth Week.

In celebration of Earth Day (Earth Week) I really feel like I should do my part to help spread the GREEN Word. I spent a few hours Sunday researching ways that can really make a difference in global warming. Most of us have heard the obvious, like cars that are eco friendly and using the right kind of light bulbs.. I was on a mission to find bigger things that we can all do. When I was a kid everything I watched on TV or the movies always boiled down to sides of good or evil, dark side or light side. When it comes to living green those sides exist, you are either a planet healer or destroyer. I know that seems a bit drama but it's true and that's how I explain it to my kids. You have to pick a side, which one are you on?

Personally I'm working on as many as possible, but I admit I have a long way to go before I'm green enough. So here are some of the things I found on my lovely Sunday afternoon of searching for green tips.

The first thing that I found to be a very important issue is DEAD TREE MEDIA, what an ugly term. But it speaks loud and clear, it’s from dead trees and it’s media the worst kind of media, especially magazines. You know trees are here for many reasons, one of them is to shield us from global warming by absorbing carbon. According to Forest Ethics, deforestation accounts for 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions. As Mom's we can protect forest by taking action online, let advertisers know how you feel about print (especially glossy paper), support more online programs, write letters do whatever it takes. The glossy pictures on the covers can look so pretty I know, but what is even prettier is planet Earth and it needs our help. Many glossies out there write about being green, but don't practice what they preach they follow a do as I say not as I do approach. The glossy paper most magazines use is one of the worst papers you can use, you can’t even recycle some of these papers. I found a good article at CNN if you'd like to read more about what the Big magazine publishers are doing read here>>

The next one can be a bit tough, for me anyways. IT'S COFFEE, I know this may have sounded scary because a lot of us love stopping by starbucks and reading our glossies...BUT we can do so much for the planet by bringing our own coffee cup and laptop. If you want to read DEAD TREE MEDIA make it a newspaper, at least we can recycle that paper (unlike many magazines). Or bring your laptop and read the online version of your favorite magazines. The paper cups can be so festive and fun around the holidays, but you can resist the temptation Mom's I know you can. When our kid's see us doing this they will continue this as they grow up and bring a cup with them where ever they go. After enough Mom’s have stopped reading the glossy magazines, publishers will get the point and change their evil ways.

This is one I love and can be easier for us, because it looks good I'm talking about Bamboo. Bamboo is so amazing and an incredible replacement for wood in just about everything we use wood for. Bamboo is one of the strongest building materials. Bamboo's tensile strength is 28,000 pounds per square inch versus 23,000 pounds per square inch for steel. It can be harvested in 3-5 years versus 10-20 years for most woods, now that's impressive. You can read more about bamboo at www.bamboocentral.org

Washing the dishes and the planet, well scientist say that running your dishwasher uses less water than washing everything by hand - thank God!
But there’s a catch only run the dishwasher when it is completely full and when you pre-wash the dishes to place in the dishwasher don’t rinse the bubbles.
This may freak some of you out, but think about it the dishwasher is going to re-soap the dishes and then rinse so no need to rinse before they get loaded up. This will save each house hold hundreds of gallons per year, you can read more dish washing
here>>

I hope this info can help, I know Mom’s have so much on their plate but as Mom’s we can change so much we have a lot influence on our little ones and even our friends. Have a great Earth week!!!


Good Environmental articles for Mom’s

http://www.time.com/time/specials/2007/environment

Cool tips or Kid's being green

Rainforest Alliance
http://www.dre.ca.gov/kidspage/little_kids.htm
http://www.kidsplanet.org/defendit/new/pledge.html




 

March for Babies

The March of Dimes has changed the name of its biggest event to March for Babies. It's a great change because it makes it very clear exactly who I am walking for — all babies. I am very excited to be a part of the “first” March for Babies; please support my participation. << MORE >>

OC Momprenuers

At OC Mom's Blog we will be proudly showcasing the special Momprenuers in Orange County. Do you know one of those crazy busy Mom-prenuers? Let OC Mom's Blog know.

The Scoop - Once a month we will showcase a Mom-Entrepreneur, letting all the great Mom's in Orange 
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Cox Communications Offers Scholarships and Airtime for OC Student Videos

Cox Video Contest invites students to submit videos about friendship. First prize is $2,500. Winning videos will air on Cox On Demand.<< MORE >>

More for Mom's who think Green

Being Green is cool... Here is yet another list of very easy things we can all do to be more green :)<< MORE >>

Smurf Berry Soda

I always say there is no need to be ordinary. This applies even to soda, make it fun. This is super easy and kids (and Mom's) go crazy for it.<< MORE >>

Pizza and Smurf Berry Soda

Pizza and soda are typically the main course at birthday parties these days. It's easy and who does'nt like pizza. But next time your planning the birthday scene consider letting your little guest make their own pizza. We have a great way for you to serve up the traditional favorite foods in a very fun way. This also gives the kids one more thing to keep them busy at the party. << MORE >>

Cool Stuff for Mom's in Orange County

I received a couple really cool emails I thought I'd share with all you OC Mom's. The First one is from Rick Brotherton a photographer in Ladera, he even sent a cool slide show to share. << MORE >>

Peanut Butter And Jelly Recipes

You can do more with peanut butter and jelly than just make sandwiches. Here are two fun baking recipes that your kids will love.<< MORE >>

Around Catalina Whale Watch - March 16

This is posted on our calendar already, I just want to make sure Mom's know about this great opportunity on March 16...

When: March 16 at 9am
Where: Departing from Newport Beach
Cost: $35 - $75
More information: (949) 673-1434
Online:
www.acsonline.org/orangecounty

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Six Communication Skills Every Child Should Know

“I was at a party the other night and I got trapped in the corner by a man who just talked and talked and talked. I tried to give him the signals to end the conversation, but he didn’t pick up on them. What a bore.” Teaching children how to communicate politely and effectively is one of a parent’s most important tasks. Assuming that children will learn proper communication skills without parental guidance is a big mistake. Parents should begin teaching their children basic communication skills at birth and continue to hone their child’s skills as the child matures. Communicating well with others is a basic tenet of society.<< MORE >>

Republicans and Religion - The 2 R-words in OC.

The two things you should never talk about Religion and Politics, or so they say. Well I happen to think you can discuss this topic without creating any enemies, well I can try. I am probably writing this out of curiosity more than anything else. Being a Mom in Orange County, California has it's quirks, for one thing a lot of people box you in with the "Real Housewives of Orange County", or many of the other so-called reality shows. And while I admit I do watch a couple of those shows it does represent a small percentage of Mom's. Don't get me wrong Orange County is a land of beautiful and rich. But what about the Mom's out there who are 'The Beautiful and the Intelligent'? So far what I have seen on most of the shows are Gold Diggers, Shop-O-Holics and Superficial Lame Brains (so much for the no enemy thing). Okay let me just say quickly that I have met a couple of these ladies and they are very nice. Alright back to the subject, I guess my curiosity is wondering how many Mom's out there like to talk about (or think about) anything other than shopping, nails and botox. Yeah I love all those too but while I'm out with a friend or the hubby I like to chat about other things like, Oh I don't know politics, world events, schools and many other topics (except religion, even I leave that one out). << MORE >>

The Grammy's are going green this year!!!

The Grammy Awards are going green this year with a fleet of gas-friendly vehicles from Chevrolet. OC Mom's Blog gets a sneak peek at the cool new cars and the celeb Mom's driving these green friendly cars. We will be adding the Mom photos a bit later, but check out one of the cool new cars.<< MORE >>

Valentine's Day Guide for Mom's

Valentine's Guide, just a quick note with a couple fun things for Valentines Day! This one is for you Mom's. If you get the chance to have a grown up Valentine's this is a great deal. << MORE >>

Super Useful Websites for Mom's, Dad's, Kids and Family

We are always looking for Super Sites, especially ones dedicated to Mom's, Kid's and the Family. So far on our quest we have found these. Let us know if you have found any super useful sites and we'll get them listed here:)<< MORE >>

Vegetarianism is on the rise and as a Mom I am wondering should Kid's be eating MEAT...

According to an Associated Press article vegetarian Restaurants doubled in the US last year. Many of us are turning to an animal free diet. There are so many reasons why people are turning to meat free life style. One reason I've heard many times is simply for health reasons, our meat is LOADED with hormones and antibiotics. It is so full of junk that most countries have a ban or have banned US imported beef. << MORE >>

Getting Over the Guilt - A Mompreneur's 5 Simple Solutions to Overcoming Stress & Anxiety

My son is coming down with something. I hope it's just cold. The early signs; he's cranky, has a bit of a runny nose, and he's starting to feel a little warm to the touch. He's only 17 months and goes to a home daycare 3 days a week. The worry begins to set in as I think about whether or not he will be well enough to go tomorrow. For so many of us, this is a common yet challenging situation that parents encounter trying to balance family and work. Even though fathers have taken on so much more of the household responsibilities in the recent years, the majority of the absenteeism in the workplace occurs with mom, according to the Maclean's 2008 article on the doctor shortage in Canada. << MORE >>

It's cold and Flu season and they've taken away medications for little ones....So what do we do?

It's cold and Flu season and they've taken away medications for little ones....So what do we do? Well first off remind yourself that no baby or child has the flu or a cold forever, it will pass. Second read what the American Academy of Pediatrics has to say here. Last check the list below, mabye your medication is still safe. And if you need more info read what the FDA has recommended. << MORE >>

Raise an Environmentally Aware Child and Family


Raise an Environmentally Aware Child and Family

Right now it is our time to shine as MOM. We can make so many changes simply by raising our kids to be friends of the Earth. As a kid I remember Ricky Raindrop and give a Hoot don't polute. They said their message loud and clear in between commercials on Saturday Morning cartoons. What our kid's get is quite different and scary GLOBAL WARMING.  A great way to ease fear is knowledge. When you and your family are actively making changes to help Earth your kids will feel a sense of hope that we can make a difference and we can be the change. I have put together a few resources that are really helpful. If you have any resources feel free to add them in a comment. 


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Get the Body You've Always Wanted With Pilates!

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early part of the 20th century. He was a very frail child and determined to develop a strong attractive body he studied meditation, yoga, martial arts and other body strengthening activities. over the years Joseph combined many of these into what is known as pilates. pilates exercise will help to develop your bodies core strength, meaning your back, stomach and pelvic muscles. It will also develop your posture and increase flexibility. << MORE >>

Science for Kids - Keeping Them Interested

Are your children naturally curious? Do they wonder how things work? Do they marvel at the stars and moon? Are they the hands-on type that are always taking things apart and putting them back together? To some parents, such habits may seem annoying, but kids who show a keen interest in acquiring scientific knowledge early in life eventually become intelligent, inquisitive teens and adults who don’t take a simple "yes" or "no" for an answer. Their curious minds will take them far!<< MORE >>

Where Does Time Go And How Can I Stop It?

As a child I thought my grandmother was a bit strange because she complained about how fast time went. Fast? It was forever until cookie time. That was then. Now time passes so fast I feel wind burn. << MORE >>

Healthy Eating Tips for Busy Moms

Moms are constantly on the go. Whether you are a working mom or a stay-at-home mother, it is hard to find the time to sit and eat a meal, let alone a healthy one. Here are a few tips to sneak that healthy eating into the busiest of schedules.<< MORE >>

Doctor Mom

Awesome tips and advice on video. Doctor Mom covers many health topics for both Moms and Kids.<< MORE >>

Bug Juice



Ingredients:



  • 1 Can HiC Ecto Cooler(the green kind)
  • 2-2 liter Sprite
  • 1 container green sherbert

  • Gummy bugs/worms


Directions


Mix first two ingredients in large punch bowl, add sherbert to keep the mix cool. Then add gummies This recipe can be doubled, tripled, etc.
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A Woman's Final Farewell To Past Hurts

Today I say farewell to self-criticism of my being. I choose today to see myself as a beam of light designed to shine wholeness and happiness to others who I meet. Today I say farewell to self-sabotaging behaviors. No longer will I remind myself of my past mistakes and failures. No longer will I beat myself up for making choices that did not benefit me. Instead, today I choose to honor learn from my failures and embrace my successes as I am a woman designed with dignity. << MORE >>

The 10 Best Pregnancy Tips

On the eve of my baby’s due date, I am unable to sleep. With baby moving in my belly, Braxton Hicks contractions spontaneously occurring (that often render me helpless, like a beetle on it's back waving its legs), and the enormous pressure in my pelvis that whisks me off to the toilet only to expel an unimpressive thimble full of pee every 15 minutes…I reflect upon the following 10 best parenting advice and pregnancy resources I received.<< MORE >>

Summer ice Coffee & Kona Irish Coffee

Awesome Recipes for the much needed COFFEE BREAK..<< MORE >>

Pumkin Ice-Cream

Pumpkin Ice Cream

Ingredients:

1 can pumpkin pie filling
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/4 cups simple syrup (1 part water to 1 part sugar)
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method:

In a bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. Pour the mixture into an electronic ice cream maker9or follow your ice-cream makers directions. Freeze for 20 minutes, or follow the instructions for your ice cream machine.

Makes 1 quart (4 cups)

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Mom's Clubs and Play Groups in OC

Find a Mom's club or playgroup in Orange County.....<< MORE >>

Birthday Party Home Page

Birthday Parties in Orange County!!!<< MORE >>

Secrets To Being Happy And Beautiful

Happiness is not an end-all product. It is actually one of the factors in keeping one’s beauty. Being happy is one of the key things that keep a person healthy and beautiful. This article tries to give some tips on how to maintain beauty by being happy. << MORE >>