Nicole Steinert
Raising Awareness, Funds, and Spirits When a young mother discovers a lump on the skull of her three-month-old baby boy, anxiety and fear run amuck. Nicole and her husband Todd feared the worst and searched for answers to their child’s noticeable bump. Four years and countless doctor visits later revealed an official, yet devastating diagnosis that changed their lives forever. When Nicole and her husband Todd married in 1999, they knew that a family was going to be in their future. Luke was born first. He epitomized all things boy and often ran the young couple ragged with his constant...
Seaside Brunches for Moms with Great Taste
Let mom relax, and not worrying about little hands dumping the fresh, ahem, squashed orange juice into the duvet, by taking her out for a hearty meal in a memorable setting. Don’t disappoint, call ahead at all of these picturesque options for reservations. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar Newport Beach | 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Special 3-Course Brunch Menu courtesy of Executive Chef Yvon Goetz with dishes that are sure to transport Mom to a relaxing Napa or Sonoma getaway Waterman’s Harbor Dana Point | Regular Hours Chef Michael J. Doctulero has an incredible buffet planned featuring fresh...
The Bank of Mom
Educating Kids on Money Matters Scheduling annual wellness exams for our children is a high priority, but complete wellness goes beyond mental and physical health. Raising kids to become happy independent adults includes teaching them to be financially responsible. A recent study by the Council for Economic Education shows that children who receive financial education have higher credit scores at the age of 22 as opposed to those who do not. We can boost our children’s financial health by talking about money matters in our daily life both early and often. Unlike hiring tutors or paying for travel team trainers,...
Mum’s the Word
Q: [Whole Family] I am a stepmother to an adorable 3 and 5-year-old. They spend a lot of time at our house and sometimes the older one slips and calls me “mom” or refers to me as her mom to her friends. The little one mimics her. I’m hugely flattered, and kind of get it. If someone asks me how many kids I have, I say three (my son is 9) without distinction. But I don’t want to cause a problem with their mother. How should I handle it without hurting their feelings? A: Parenting is a challenging task no...
Noro-Neurosis
Q: [Whole Family] It seems like every other newstory these days is about norovirus, from cruise ships to burrito chain joints. How do I keep my kids safe? They aren’t even in school yet and there are germs everywhere! A: Bacteria and germs are unavoidable, and you shouldn’t have an unreasonable fear of them. Our bodies have natural protections against infections, like our skin and our immune systems. Many microbes in the environment and in our bodies are beneficial, or even crucial, to our health. Nonetheless, your family can become ill from food contaminated with harmful microorganisms like norovirus, which...
Savings and Loans
Q: [Teen] My oldest applied to schools and we got so wrapped up in that process, and life with two other little ones in the house, we have suddenly hit the May 1st commit date and haven’t tracked down financing other than the basic loans they offer. Are we too late? A: A major misconception is you are no longer eligible for scholarships after have been accepted into college. One of the worst mistakes students and families can make is to assume it’s too late to apply for scholarships once college decisions are made. There are scholarships with summer deadlines,...
The Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Go ahead, slip this in your tween’s backpack or under your partner’s pillow, you won’t mind having to drop hints if you score these great gifts! For the Beachin’ Mama Flawless Coconut Tanning Serum No need to fry that skin, get a glow on the go by visiting one of the spray salons near you (locator at fakebake.com) or pick up some DIY serum to make the most of baby’s naptime. $31, www.fakebake.com Maui Jim Kupuna These bronze beauties not only make you look great, they’ll help you see great. The gloss copper frames are classy and bend to avoid...
Riviera Nayarit and Iberostar Playa Mita
Celebrate your independence from the daily grind with a May getaway in the picturesque Riviera Nayarit and Iberostar Playa Mita. Just a hop, skip and an ole south of bustling Puerto Vallarta is a lovely stretch of coastline packed with enough fun activities to satisfy everyone in the family, and a top class resort you’ll be happy to call your casa away from casa. The Digs Five star Iberostar Playa Mita offers an upscale, but family friendly oasis from the hectic Puerto Vallarta hotel zone. A picturesque hour south, passing through the grand gate doors sets the tone (even before...
Summer Movie Preview 2016
Sure, it might be the month celebrating Screen Free Week, but we feel like an afternoon as a family at the movies is a different critter than eyes-glued-to-apps-and-games. Share the popcorn, and a few laughs (or gasps), with the kids with these new family flicks. Finding Dory Opens: June 17. Rated:G. Cast:Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Hayden Rolence, Diane Keaton, Eugene Levy, Idris Elba, Bill Hader, Kate McKinnon, John Ratzenberger. Plot:The friendly but forgetful blue tang fish reunites with her loved ones. Parenting Points: Finally, a sequel to one of the most beloved animated films of all times. A star-studded casts...
Screen-Free Survival Guide
Can your children survive a week without their favorite TV shows, computer games, and videogames? More importantly, can you? According to the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, children who spend less time with the TV, computer, and videogames do better in school and have more time for creative play and interaction with caring adults. For this reason, the group advocates for Screen-Free Week from May 2nd to May 8th. We have suggestions for activities that can make the week not just bearable, but great fun. Bonus: Because your family will burn extra calories during Screen-Free Week, we’re making daily dessert...
Going Tech-Free at Camp
Kids Unplug and Make Lifelong Connections In our world of constant connectivity, some might argue that kids shouldn’t be expected to “unplug” for weeks on end. And yet most overnight summer camps are still tech-free zones. Why? Recent studies reveal there are good reasons for taking a tech break. And seasoned camp directors are privy to a little known fact: Kids actually enjoy it. Erec Hillis, boys’ camp director at Camp Champions in Texas, says, “Many of our campers actually thank us for the opportunity to put away their phones for a while. Some of them say that it is...
Meet our New Social Media Mama!
As if she didn’t have enough going on, we decided Jennifer Hulick needed to add a bit more to her plate and tagged her as our new Social Media Mama. What’s it like to raise a very full house of two teens, triplet kindergarteners, husband and boxer-mix Marley? “We’re busy, but that’s how I grew up – we had a big family and were always on the go. On Sundays, we spend time as an extended family at my parents’ in Huntington Beach. We’re all no more than a bike ride away, which is great. The kids all play in...
Eco-Friendly Laundry Products
Want to get your clothes clean while staying green? Try these eco-friendly products to save energy (and time!). deFUNKit This odor neutralizing kit might take several steps to treat (for the lifetime of the clothes), but keeping workout and athletic clothes fresh for a week at a time thanks to the permanent odor control, saves huge when it comes to needless rewashing. $10, www.deFUNKit.com Method Laundry Products Many of us have discovered the irresistible scents in this line of hand soaps and spray cleaners, but new-to-store shelves are the concentrated liquid laundry soaps (each small bottle does 66 loads) and...
Super Finds
The whole country is super excited over the latest hero movie. Your kids might be a little young to take in the flick, but they can still look the part with these heroic picks. DaphDaph Giggly Goggles They’ll be swimming faster than a speeding bullet with eyes protected by these goggles (and hair protected from tangles and pulling thanks to the neoprene-like band securing the back). $25, daphdaph.com Bumkins Super Diapies! Mom can be super-earth friendly, while kiddos are super adorable in these DC Comics printed cloth diaper covers…complete with CAPE! Snap-In-One diaper comes with soft Minky insert and is...
Special Products, Born in the OC
Babies hit developmental milestones at their own pace, and those with sensitivities (emotional to physical) can especially benefit from products with their needs in mind. Bonus —these goods were born (or their creators were) right in OC! Laceez Anaheim Hills dad, Jason Flores, has created a simple fix to the stress of trying to get tiny shoes on, and keeping those laces tied. These brightly colored accessories look like real laces, but are elasticized and stay put with a t-aglet design. $8, www.laceez.com Cibo Made by Ladera Ranch mom, Amy Chandler, who got tired of crawling under the table and...
Mummies of the World: The Exhibition
Bowers Museum, Santa Ana Featuring over 150 artifacts with real human and animal mummies, this is the largest exhibit ever assembled of mummies and related historic items. Visitors will get a rare look into the past and get a sense of what life was like long ago in ancient Egypt, South America and Europe. The exhibition’s cool state-of-the-art technology, 3D animation and interactive features all help to provide visitors with an immersive museum-going experience. For a unique step back in time, visit the exhibit at Bowers Museum, through September 5. www.bowers.org Chapter Two Grand Re-Opening Once Upon a Storybook, Tustin...
A Rockin’ Good Time
Sophia, 6, Anaheim Theme: Donuts and Pajamas Location: Rockin’ Jump Orange County, sna.rockinjump.com Photography by: Family Invites by: Etsy Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Delicious Gourmet Cupcakes Entertainment/Party Planner: Stephanie Courtillier The Goods on the Goody Bag: Sippi Cereal Bowl, mini cereal, marshmallows, fruit by the foot, erase pencil, gummies, stickers “I think the key for a successful party is the location. Rockin’ Jump Orange County was very flexible and helpful with all the ideas I had for our party. Our guests loved all the different activities for the kids and all the food. So much fun!”
Izzy Paskowitz
Riding Waves with Autistic Children How do you turn hopelessness into triumph? For Izzy and Danielle Paskowitz it happened by chance on a surfboard in the middle of the ocean. Now, by sharing, thousands have been given a special gift. When his first son Isaiah was born, Israel “Izzy” Paskowitz had the dream of any professional athlete, that his son would follow his career path and become a professional surfer. After all, Paskowitz is a member of the “First Family of Surfing.” (As one of eight brothers and a surfing sister, his childhood was spent traveling fulltime around the United...
Haven Gastropub
This gastropub is a true haven for culinary-minded parents who want to venture into the land of gourmet, kids-in-tow. Familiar classics, amped up with sophisticated spins, will have kids pigging out on truffle fries and loving the lamb burger. This cozy spot does get busy, so if you are schooling your kids on great food, shoot for the quieter late lunch to early dinner period. The hand-twisted pretzel with bacon-fontina cheese and mac-n-cheese with gruyere and black truffle disappeared in a flash. Almost as quick as our handcrafted Peaches O’Houlahan (with Buffalo Trace bourbon, Crème de Peche, wildflower honey, lemon...
3 Fun Yoga Poses for Kids with Autism
April is National Autism Awareness Month, and yoga is proving to have many benefits for children on the autism spectrum. For instance, a recent study found that elementary school kids with autism spectrum disorder who participated in a daily yoga program had reduced aggressive behavior, social withdrawal, and hyperactivity. Autism is a developmental disorder that typically appears in the first three years of life; whether mild or severe, autism spectrum disorders nevertheless interfere with a child’s ability to communicate and understand social cues. This causes anxiety, obsessive behavior, and difficulty managing emotions. Children with autism who practice yoga begin to...
Giving as a Family
Q: [All Ages] I would love to spend some quality time volunteering as a family. But we have two little ones (4 and 6) besides their older sister, who is 10. Are they too young to participate? Are there any opportunities we could do together? A: Even our youngest ones can discover they’re part of something bigger than themselves when given the chance to make a difference, and April is an especially great time to start. It’s designated as National Volunteer Month, dedicated to honoring volunteers and encouraging a growing movement of volunteerism across the country. As a parent myself,...
HPV vaccine
Q: [Tween] My doctor suggested we have our tween get the new HPV vaccine, which kind of boggles our minds. He just turned 11 and is not even thinking in that direction yet! We don’t do gratuitous shots and it seems like an odd thing, especially for a boy. Can’t it wait until later in high school or if we see some signals he is thinking of girls more seriously? A: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent an HPV infection. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical cancer in...
Planning for Playdates
Q: [School-Aged] My second grader attends school in an inclusive classroom. Several of the kids have challenges and my son would like to invite them for playdates. I think it is great, but how can I pave the way for a successful time? I want to be sensitive, but also don’t want to offend the parents by assuming or asking questions about things to consider. Tips? A: Inviting classmates of all abilities to play with your child at your home is a wonderful idea! All of the children will benefit from play that will reinforce what they are already learning...
Mission Hospital: Why You Can’t Stop Playing Candy Crush
Candy Crush, Cookie Jam and other “match three” smartphone games seem so innocuous and fun. With simple rules—string three or more of the same objects together to work your way up through levels of play—and an aesthetic heavy on bright colors and jingly sound effects. But it’s also very easy to become obsessed with this type of gaming app. Innocent Habit or Addiction? The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder states that it’s worth the research to determine if Internet Gaming Disorder warrants formal inclusion in the manual. That’s because findings so far indicate that...
Arts and Autism
A Spectrum of Possibilities The world of the arts might not at first glance seem like a natural fit for those on the spectrum. Teaching art to children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can be a challenge, given that ASD’s typically impair social and communication skills, behavior regulation, and coordination and motor function. But many parents have found programs mired in expression and creativity can guide their kids’ broader outlook and help with social interaction in a fun and engaging way. OC Arts in Action Brianna Shaffer offers Let’s Play Music group classes, private music therapy, and piano and guitar...
Special Needs Camps
Sending a child to summer camp for the first time can make any parent nervous. But worries are often magnified for parents of kids with special needs. Images of sunlit lakes and carefree campers are often trumped by concerns about behavior, communication, and physical safety. Stacy De La O, whose daughter has high functioning autism, remembers the weeks leading up to Fia’s first overnight camp experience as a 10-year-old. “I was a wreck!” she admits. “But we prepared well, and in the end I trusted the counselors at Blue Compass to take care of her.” Children with physical, cognitive, or...
Facial Treatments
Women face a lot of daily stress…and then stress even more when it shows on our face! If you can sneak away for a little me-time, pull double duty with a relaxing treatment that will leave you glowing and ready to, ahem, face the world. Many facials include scalp, hand, feet or neck massages — or that 15 minute pick me up can be tagged on simultaneously for a small fee without extending your time away from juggling all those home-and-family balls. If you can’t spare the hour, check out these at home helpers that can help you fake it...
The Top Five Mental Health Myths
To truly end the stigma surrounding mental health, it’s important to understand the truths behind the causes, symptoms, and treatments of these disorders. It’s imperative to dispel the myths surrounding these illnesses in order to eradicate the fear and misconceptions so prevalent in families. Debbie Hutchinson, Psy.D., Manager of Outpatient Behavioral Health Programs and the Psychiatric Emergency Team at the Laguna Beach campus of Mission Hospital, identifies the following as common misperceptions about mental health: 1. Children with a mental illness are more prone to violence. When a tragic and violent crime occurs, people are too often quick to blame...
RIDEMAKERZ Birthday Party
Trevor, 12 years old, Mission Viejo Theme: Car Mania Location: RIDEMAKERZ shop, Downtown Disney Invites by: Mom, via Evite Food: Haagen-Dazs, next door, for kids’ sundaes Decor: Vehicle design studio offered perfect backdrop! Entertainment: Ridemakerz Pit Crew The Goods on the Goody Bag: No need! Each guest went home with a car! “Best Party EVER! The best part was the pit challenge – racing against the clock, and my friends, to build our RIDEZ. Can’t wait to come back!” — Trevor, Birthday Boy, pictured above
Dragon Kim
“Life is gone, but don’t cry, for you were just visiting.” —Dragon Kim, 2000-2015 The drive from Orange County to Yosemite this past August was meant to be a culmination of a summer filled with camps, college classes, and athletic events for Dragon Kim and his family. This vacation was supposed to mirror the other five Yosemite trips which consisted of morning hikes, sleeping in tents, grilling over an open fire and eating sticky s’mores at evening’s end. Dragon and his friend Justin Lee went to sleep in a tent under a massive star-splashed sky, and fell asleep discussing their...
Insect Protection
Zika-Freaked? We’ve got you covered. Spring break vacation plans might not look so inviting for those expecting or trying, with the latest in the Caribbean and countries south of the border. We get it. Arm yourself with the latest knowledge from the CDC (www.cdc.gov/zika) and these safe items to ward off the day-biting bugs. Insect Shield Buffs and Yoga Pants When your first trimester-tummy is already whirling, rubbing scented spray around your nostrils isn’t very appealing. You can still save face with these odorless treated buffs and scarfs. IS maternity leggings offer comfy coverage, though yoga pants one size up...
What’s in your Easter Basket?
Listen up, Peeps! Chocolate eggs and colorful jellybeans might sweeten the pot, but these adorable trinkets are completely sugar-free (and just might fit nicely into medium or large plastic eggs!). Bunny Slippers Toddler toes can race through the egg hunt on these adorable non-slip suede soles, approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. $20, robeez.com Soapsox In a contest for cuteness, this cuddly ducky cleans up — and also has a slot for a bar of soap to help with little ones’ baths. $10, www.soapsoxkids.com Piggy Paint Their little piggies will cry “Wheee! Wheee! Wheee!” all the way to the...
Alana Yarbrough: Odysseo by Cavalia
As a parent, experiencing a sense of sheer wonder like you did as a child can be a rare experience. From stunning horses to enthralling riders, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, musicians and singers, Cavalia is a family affair. Created by the Latourelle family and their sons for your family’s delight, the internationally acclaimed show is an epic journey of nature’s greatest wonders while showcasing the beautiful relationship of horse and human. Take your eyes, ears, mind, and heart on a galloping adventure with 65 horses of 11 different breeds and 45 artists from around the world, including the United States, Canada,...
Screening What Your Tween Reads
Q: [Tween] I am thrilled with my tween wanting to read… but a little concerned about the maturity of some of her choices. As a parent, how much guidance or control should I have over her books — and how would I even know what was what? I don’t have time to read all of the books she is, and certain graphic scenes aren’t always something that pops up in a skim. A: Congratulations on raising a reader! Reading can do wonders for the mind and soul. I don’t say that just because I’m a huge bookworm and an author...
Breastfeeding Safety with Alcohol
Q: [Infant] I’m looking forward to St. Patrick’s Day. It will be the first time my husband and I go out since the baby was born, but I’m nursing. My friends have told me to just ‘pump and dump’ and enjoy myself, but I’m not sure how it works? A: There’s so much to celebrate following the birth of a baby. So what’s the harm of imbibing a little, right? Women are cautioned against consuming alcohol while pregnant with good reason. However, the risks of drinking alcohol while breast-feeding aren’t as defined. Many women think the “pump and dump” method...
Benefits of Music in Schools
Q: [School-Aged] I’ve heard this is ‘Music in Our Schools’ month, which seems like a good thing. But with all the academic obligations and common core standards that have to be met in school, is there really any value to adding music into the mix? A: I can point to countless volumes of research that substantiate the value of musical training in a child’s education —improved test scores, mastery of memorization and perseverance, encouragement of creative thinking, teamwork and spatial intelligence, and advanced development of language and reasoning. These skills help our students become successful in virtually all of their...
Bruxie: Green Eggs and Ham
Picky eaters meet their match, “Waffles? Yay!” But here’s the catch… These Belgian grids are gateway cakes! Palate benders! Dessert fakes! Not all sweet, but still they’ll eat, When modern meets a classic treat. We do so like them, topped with lox, and pole-caught tuna from the docks. Gruyere, Swiss and cheese of goat, We’d eat on land or on a boat. “Fold in half, Kid. Drop the fork.” Cider slaw meets pink-pulled pork. “Mushrooms, mom? Crimini’s sake!” But soon…another bite they’ll take… “Prosciutto! Chives! Arugula!” Nothing fazes! Shangri-la! They’ll sip cane soda, fizzy wins. (Made by local artisans.) In...
Fashion Week Hair Design
If you’re looking to spring forward into a new style with your lovely locks, we have a few ideas. Vera Wang’s Fashion Week hair design, by runway stylist Paul Hanlon for Pai-Shau, was inspired by the collections’ rich textures, long, lean lines and strong hues. We love Vera, but we also wanted that hair! The clean-looking, sculptural styles featured fine, hidden side braids made behind the ear to peek through as the hair moves. Hanlon followed the models’ own, natural hair partings for each look. “It’s about the idea of a smaller rounded look: not pinned or sleeked, but with...
Dealing With Airborne Allergies
The number of people in Orange County who are affected by airborne allergies is much higher than you might think. In general, around 30% of adults and 40% of children live with respiratory allergies. In terms of other widespread respiratory issues, asthma is the most common chronic disease in children, and is the number reason why children miss school. Because of the wonderful climate, Orange County is covered in pollen year-round. Since there is no severe winter frost to kill off pollen, we are at a disadvantage compared to northeastern America. It’s usually worse in spring and fall, but it’s...
Parent/Student Nominated Teachers 2016
We asked the students and parents of Orange County to share tales of their favorite teachers, and they did not disappoint. Over 200 essays were sent in, honoring the educators who go above and beyond. Here are a few we had to share. Read the full versions of the parent/student nominations as well as all of the other amazing teachers who were nominated! Top Nominated Family Favorite Kamee Nuzman, Irvine High School Reading through the 27 (!) essays written about Kamee Nuzman of Irvine High School, I was both awed by the inspiration and love “Nuz” obviously made her students...
All Parent/Student Nominated Teachers 2016
To read Parening OC's Parent/Student Nominated Teachers 2016, click here! Michelle Lambright Woodland Elementary School Costa Mesa Kirsten Aguilar , Parent Teaching 25 crazy kindergarteners how to begin to navigate their educational journey can not be easy! But somehow Mrs. Michelle Lambright make it seem to be so. She emulates joy for what she does, from her high fives to every child down the line at morning line-up, to her bubbly voice that you can hear from a far, gently rounding up her class. Our son has had educational struggles that she picked up on and is working to support...
CIT, a Summer Solution for Tweens and Teens
Is your tween insisting she’s too old to attend camp this summer? If your child isn’t old enough to get a summer job and just hanging around for three months is off the table, look into your local Counselor-in-Training (CIT) programs. These programs are for young teens serious about assuming the responsibility and effort it takes to work with young children in a camp setting. Openings are limited, and some camps only consider those teens who have been “campers” in previous years, so now is the ideal time to do your research. What It’s All About CIT programs (sometimes called...
The Art of the Heart
Help kids express their inner artist, and feelings, with these fun kits themed to the season. Foodstirs Valentine’s Kit How sweet is it to be loved by someone who ordered this chic kit by Sarah Michelle Gellar. Brownie heart pops are Pinterest-worthy, and tasty. $19.95, www.Foodstirs.com Mandala Expressions They might be too old for scrawled crayon roses, but these blossom-themed grown-up coloring books with Sargent Art pencils might be just the thing to de-stress tweens/tweens from their young love woes. $34.95, store.discovery.com Crystal Creation Kit Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend this time of year, but we loooooove STEM-activities...
I Chews You!
Beat the chewy-blues with these clever teethers and gum soothers your baby will love. Eco-Teether Crib Rail Cover We all cringe at the sight of our little ones gnawing on the crib rail, toxic-free paint or not. These handy crib rail covers offer a comfy textured fabric that is machine washable and free of chemicals or dyes. $49, www.BabeeTalk.com Chubby Gummy Zoli’s toothbrush’esque version of a teether is made with BPA & phthalate-free thermoplastic rubber (TPR) and polypropylene (PP). The handle is easy to grasp, with an anti-choke shield ensuring they don’t poke those soft-textured nubs in too far. $12,...
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market’s first North Orange County location is scheduled to open Wednesday, February 17 in the Village at La Floresta in Brea. The 38,000 square-foot store will have a restaurant and bar as well as a community room for special events. Whole Foods Market Brea will host a, “Eat. Drink. Play. Give. — Brea Block Party,” Saturday, February 6, from 12 to 4 p.m. with a suggested donation of $5 adults, $3 children benefitting the Brea Education Foundation. On February 25, five percent of the day’s net sales will benefit the MaxLove Project, a local organization that supports children...
Star Wars Birthday Party
Sofia, 7, Laguna Beach Theme: Star Wars Jedi Training Location: Alta Laguna Park in Laguna Beach Photography: Boyd Carr Invites by: Evite Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Cake from Albertson’s - Sandwiches and chips from Costco - Pizza from Pizza Hut Decor by: Party City Entertainment: Party Karacters , www.partykaracters.com The Goods on the Goody Bag: Halloween items, since Sofia’s party was in October. Vampire teeth, erasers, pencils, candy, stickers and plastic spiders. “Sofia had a great time with her friends and loved the Jedi Training with Darth Vader and the Girl Jedi! The kids were always occupied and having fun...
Brady Gardner
Brady Gardner, 13, of Huntington Beach goes to bat for kids with challenges. When Brady Gardner, 13, of Huntington Beach steps up to the plate, he’s already batting a thousand in the eyes of the players and parents affiliated with the Little League Challenger Division. The league is designed to help kids with challenges enjoy a classic sports team experience, and it couldn’t happen without Brady and his friends. “It’s fun helping others who don’t get a chance to do what everyone else can. I used to play Little League — this gives them the opportunity to do the same....
SOL Cocina
Newport Beach | www.solcocina.com This hotspot boasting coastal Baja-inpired cuisine, featuring authentic flavors reminiscent of surf trips and street carts served up in surrounds with a decidedly upscale flair, is helmed by James Beard nom’d Executive Chef & Partner Deborah Schneider. Chef Deb is not only an award-winning cookbook author and successful restaurateur, but a mom. But is this trendy eatery good for families? “It sounds cliché, but there is something for everyone to enjoy; and we like kids!,” says Schneider, who believes in expanding culinary horizons for little ones. “I raised two! My rule was, ‘Just try it —...
Controlling Your Child’s Diabetes Helps the Whole Family
The beginning of the new year is a great time to get your family’s health back on track. But what does this mean if your child is living with diabetes? Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose (sugar). People with Type 1 diabetes have a pancreas that cannot make insulin. With Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas makes insulin but the insulin does not work the way it should. Because of this, the glucose or sugar from food stays in the blood and your child can have “high blood sugar.” Your child may feel tired or low...
The Inner Leader
Camp can allow children the chance to take charge. Camp offers the camaraderie of building friendships, problem-solving tasks from campfire-starting to color-war-strategizing and freedom from the responsibilities of daily family life. But one benefit that doesn’t always spring to mind is its fertile environment for growing leadership skills. Some children seem to effortlessly fall into the role of leader, no matter what the situation. However, there are those children who are late bloomers. These are the ones who blend in early on, but blossom with maturity and become presidents of their high school class or captains of a varsity team....
De’Bunking Camp Concerns
Q: [School-Aged] My middle-schooler is getting ready to go to camp for the first time. It seems like friendships at this age are in flux, to put it mildly. Is it better to lock her into her time away with friends who might be frenemies by then, or encourage her to make new friends and branch out by signing her up solo? A: Sending your child to camp for the first time can be exciting and seen as a marker in the birth of their emerging independence of adolescence. It is understandable for parents to feel apprehensive about the unpredictability...
Sharing Your Bed with Your Baby
Q: [Infant/Toddler] We are thrilled sharing our life with our new baby...but less thrilled that we somehow ended up sharing our bed, too! It wasn’t planned, just morphed into this. I love my child, but with Valentine’s Day coming up, it would be great to reclaim our bedroom.” A: Believe it or not, “surprise” co-sleeping is quite normal. Many parents end up having children in their beds full-time, even though that was never the original intention. Fortunately, you can reverse this process and send your little ones back to solo snoozing! Begin by spending some non-sleep time with your child...
Tween Dating Limits
Q: [Tween] "My daughter just got her first ‘boyfriend’ and he is all she can talk about. They are only 8th graders so they don’t actually ‘go’ anywhere, just publicly admit to the crush. I remember being swept up at that age, but with so much access via social media and cell phones, it seems like there’s not much chance of a break. What’s healthy?” A: What is healthy now with regards to social media is much different than what was healthy when there was no social media. It seems hard to imagine, but kids now live at least 50%...
After-School Activities for Children
[caption id="attachment_13671" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Brain Builders[/caption] If Your Child is a Brainiac At Chess Palace in Garden Grove, children can take classes, play for fun, and participate in tournaments. Chess Palace has been owned by the Ong family since 2003; some of its students have won national championships. chesspalace.com Bionerds. Budding scientists from kindergarten through sixth grade can enroll in a four-week class in Irvine to learn about worms, bacteria, DNA, and fruit flies. www.bionerdsllc.com Brain Builders offers Engineering with LEGO classes at dozens of public and private schools throughout Orange County and at its facility in Laguna Niguel. www.brainbuildersed.org...
Date Night
Looking for some new ideas to show the love this Valentine’s? Here are a few spots in OC to amp up the romance… Babette’s Brunch Newport Beach | www.babettesnewportbeach.com Who says your date needs to involve an evening out? Kick off the day when babysitters abound with brunch in this chic fireside courtyard before strolling off the amazing Benedict (house cured salmon, crispy herbed fingerling potato and champagne hollandaise) or the Tuscan Quinoa Bowl (organic kale, sunny up eggs, toybox tomato and pesto) with a hike through Crystal Cove’s seaside bluff trails — plenty of spots to drop down to...
DIY Valentines
Hallmark is great, drugstore cheapies have a certain allure, but there’s no beating the heart of a hand-crafted Valentine. Here are a few fun ideas to try with the kids, young and old. Free-Form Striped Heart Making this heart-shaped image is self-explanatory, but kids will love adding personal flair to their heart design…and they just LOVE tape. You will need 5 strips decorative tape in different patterns but within the same color family, each 3½” 1 white folded note card, 4¼” x 5½” 1 piece wax paper at least 4¼” x 5½” bone folder scissors rubber stamp of heart (optional)...
Truth on Teeth
February is a great time to recognize the importance of oral health for children and effectively get your child interested in good oral hygiene. Parents can help children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums by modeling good behavior, developing good habits at an early age, and scheduling regular dental visits. It can even start as early as in infancy by familiarizing your child with the feel of a soft infant toothbrush or wet wash cloth as you clean their gums after mealtimes. Give your child, even if they don’t have teeth, a soft bristle...
Beaver Creek
[caption id="attachment_13590" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Beaver Creek Resort is the perfectly designed ski village of family vacation dreams.Photo by Jack Affleck[/caption] The Ultimate Family Ski Getaway There’s a wonderful indefinable energy about Colorado’s Beaver Creek Ski Resort, something akin to getting a family hug by a destination. Swoosh your way into this easy peasy one-stop spot that has everything you need to build memories and some serious quads from the world class skiing. Getting Around Don’t feel chained down by worries over snowy driving, let the pros at Colorado Mountain Express whisk you from the airport to your getaway. Once in...
Tips for Helping Your Back
Everyone loves a good massage, but sometimes it is more necessity than luxury. It is hard to juggle home, relationships, work and motherhood when you can’t even juggle a couple of foam balls without wincing. Getting away to a spa doesn’t always fit into our busy schedules, so here are a few at-home helpers we checked out to keep your back on track. Varidesk Pro Plus 36 Anyone with back troubles knows how challenging the simple act of sitting can be. This sit-to-stand desk keeps back pain from cramping your style at work. Simply set the ergonomically designed platform atop...
Key to 2023
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Why mindfulness is an essential skill of the new year. Navigating the modern world is not easy — our culture places excessive demands on our time and attention, often pulling our focus away from those nearest to us and even away from our personal health and well-being. Technology dominates every aspect of our lives. While it has undoubtedly delivered incredible opportunities and improvements to so many aspects of our lives, we must recognize the impact on our health and the health of our children while finding solutions that best protect our families. So much of our...
Teaching Gratitude
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Learn some research-backed tips for fostering a thankful child. Wanting to raise a thankful child has its challenges. The entitlement cultural narrative can be a significant challenge in your quest. Has your child been given a birthday gift or invited to a friend's party? You know they really liked the gift or party, and when it was time to leave, you say what all good parents do, "What do you say?" Your child looks at you and mumbles a "Thank you" to the host or gift giver. As you smile and laugh it off, you wonder...
Goal-Setting for the School Year
(Photo Courtesy of Taylor Wilcox/Unsplash) How to help your kids achieve goals in the new school year with a sensory vision board. Does your child have ADHD, autism, anger problems or other issues that get in the way of effective learning? If so, you're not alone. Many parents struggle with helping their kids succeed academically. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to support your child with the goal of becoming an effective and enthusiastic student. One of the things that can be very helpful is a vision board. We'll talk about how to make...
A Lesson in Boundaries
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) This Father’s Day, we’re reflecting on the life lessons that fathers can pass on to their children — particularly boundaries. Father’s Day is just around the corner. There are so many essential life lessons that dads pass on to their children. Father’s Day is a reminder of how much dads impact their kids’ lives. One of the most important things that we think dads can teach their kids is how to set boundaries. Why Are Boundaries So Important for Kids? It’s easy to picture boundaries as being imaginary lines that we draw that we don’t...
Parenting Through Trauma
(Photo Courtesy of Xavier Mouton Photographie) How do I help guide my kids through the trauma of school shootings? All ages Earthquake drills. Fire drills. These types of emergency preparations have long been part of student life in Orange County schools. These days, unfortunately, many children have something else built into their school schedules: active shooter drills, to prepare them for the possibility of a mass school shooting. The Robb Elementary School shooting in May was the 27th school shooting this year, according to Education Week. There have been over 200 mass shootings in the US this year alone. It...
Social Media and Mental Health
(Photo Courtesy of Emily Wade/Unsplash) How can I keep my kids safe from the mental health risks of social media? All ages Children’s access, reliance and relationship with technology has skyrocketed in the past two years. Online schooling, increased dependence on laptops during the pandemic and isolation have directly impacted how children interact with technology. Many children became reliant on social media to alleviate feelings of isolation. According to a recent poll by C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital on Children’s Health, 49 percent of children ages 10-12 and 32 percent of children ages 7-9 are using social media. The primary focus...
Solstice Restaurant, Tenaya Stone Spa, & More
Solstice Restaurant, Tenaya Stone Spa, Sanrio Boutique, Zankou Chicken, and The Sweet Hand…
JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa
This postcard perfect beachfront resort lies where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. With cliffside tiers down to the water, these luxury digs have panoramic views over tranquil infinity pools to the crashing waves below. Sophisticated décor worthy of the JW brand adorns public areas and the well appointed suites, while the property offers a wide range of exceptional dining, an impressive signature spa, multiple sparkling pools and fitness center that make leaving the oasis simply unnecessary. www.marriott.com | San Jose del Cabo Jasha Spa and Salon Elements of the local culture are celebrated in the treatments at...
Teddy Bear Hugs
This Tesoro High teen with scoliosis gives support and teddy bears to others like her…
Popsicle Therapy
A local teen has discovered a way to help ease his stress, and that of others his age — popsicles. Austin Parker is melting away stress and anxiety one popsicle at a time, and others are eating it up. The 17-year-old Trabuco Canyon resident got into popsicle making in spring 2020, around the time COVID-19 lockdowns started. Like many of his peers, the Santa Margarita Catholic High School student found himself stressed and anxious about virtual learning, isolation and all the unknowns of the pandemic world. Not a great combination for someone who admits to getting easily stressed in general. ...
It’s Time to De-stress
Therapy Dough Let’s be honest: Parenting has gotten difficult this year. Staying at home all day with the kids can take a toll, but managing your stress doesn’t have to take a backseat. Uncommon Goods’ Therapy Dough is modeled after clay used by art therapists and is even infused with natural essential oils for stress relief. With the soothing scent of lavender or vibrant smell of orange, you can squeeze out your stress and have fun doing it. $15, uncommongoods.com Taboo's Kids vs. Parents Want to spend relaxing, quality time without screens? Check out Taboo’s Kids vs. Parents game,...
Mourning Kobe
How to listen to our kids when they lose their icon. When a child’s hero passes away, a part of their innocence is gone forever. When we lost Kobe Bryant, it was a striking reminder that life isn’t just a game. It sometimes is tragically and inexplicably taken away, never to be replaced. Our children often do not have the words or understanding of death and loss, let alone the awareness of the stages of grieving. On an otherwise average Sunday, Jan. 26, many of our local families’ lives changed forever. Kobe and his daughter, Gianna, were an integral part...
Pollen Pointers
With spring in full bloom, here’s what families should know about this year’s OC allergy season…
Fearsome Flu
Steps to Take Today to Protect Your Family. By this point in the flu season, pretty much everyone knows at least a few people who have fallen ill with a nasty case. The flu arrived early and has been more severe than usual as well. Public-health experts aren’t surprised. Australia, which gets its flu season before ours in the Northern Hemisphere, was hit hard and doctors have been bracing ever since. It’s a mistake in any year to confuse influenza with the generic “colds and flu” that people talk about each winter. Influenza can be a serious disease; each year...
Talk About Curing Autism This Holiday Season
The Sensitive Santa program is ideal for those who struggle with the chaos of meeting Santa at a nearby mall. Launched more than 14 years ago in November 2000, the Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) organization began as a local support group for OC parents with autistic children. Founded by Lisa and Glen Ackerman, parents of an autistic son, the grassroots program had its humble beginnings in Huntington Beach, with TACA's first meeting held in the Ackerman's living room amongst 10 other families. Since then, it has spread to over 45,000 families, becoming a nationwide non-profit organization focused on supporting...
Art for the Holidays
(Photos Courtesy of Diana Shabtai) Making art as a family can help encourage bonding while creating something special for the holidays. Creating art together as a family this holiday season allows a parent to possibly gain better insight into how their child is feeling or thinking by encouraging them to participate in arts and crafts activities or other activities. Arts and crafts, for example, are a great way for youth to turn to their endless imagination all while doing something productive and expressive with it through creativity. There are many materials and activities to choose from, which can allow children...
Art Therapy OC
Art Therapy OC is a cheerful, colorful, encouraging, & inspirational art studio for all ages. Come explore the enjoyable world of Art, it's endless creative, expressive, & therapeutic benefits, & possibilities for healthy better-living. Everyone is a creative artist! Dr. Diana Shabtai, “MissDee” looks forward to seeing you and yours this season for some fun holistic self-care for mental health. Diana offers a wide variety of unique beneficial creative wellness workshop choices where the art is tailored especially for you! You may schedule a private session, creative play date, join her awesome “creative kids camps,” have a personalized pARTy, corporate...
CSI for STEM
Local schools find an innovative way to teach STEM through crime scene investigation and forensics programs…
Science and Craft
Take this time at home to create these educational and fun science projects with the kids. With schools closed, the kids have been home for weeks now and you’re running out of ideas for them. Remote learning might be going well but in any case, children are antsy and looking for new activities. The best possible solution is to combine some real learning with novel fun. Kids aren’t in classes where science experiments can take place, but there are plenty of science-related activities you can conduct at home. Of course, there’s a little extra challenge to this, given the stay-at-home...
Football Fears
My son wants to join the football team at school but I’m worried about concussions. If I let him join, how can I keep him safe? …
Baseball Dad
[caption id="attachment_36208" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Courtesy of Los Angeles Angels[/caption] COVID-19 and stay-home orders have impacted all people and industries — including baseball. In time for Father’s Day, we spoke with Los Angeles Angels baseball outfielder Justin Upton to get a glimpse of a professional athlete and father living life in the age of coronavirus. Justin Upton Los Angeles Angels outfielder City: Newport Beach Family: Wife, Ashley; daughters, Sydnee, 4, and Evyn, 1 Los Angeles Angels player: Since 2017 How long did you know you wanted to be a professional baseball player? “I started playing when I was 4 years old...
Specializing within Sports
Q: [School Age] With springtime sport team tryouts and summer camp registrations there are so many decisions for my baseball-playing son. Does specializing in one sport lead to more success than playing year-round? A: Joining a higher level club or travel team to get better coaching and play with more talented teammates can definitely improve skills in that one sport. Studies have shown, though, that Division 1 NCAA athletes are more likely to have played multiple sports in high school and that their first organized sport was different from their current one. Reviews of studies of elite athletes revealed that,...
Gifts for Dad
West Coast Style IPA Beer Brewing Kit Dads with a taste for beer will be delighted by this kit that can turn any kitchen into a craft brewery ready to serve only the best IPA. This homemade beer contains 100 percent malt extract, specialty grains, high-quality yeast and aromatic Summit and Cascade hops sourced from Yakima Valley in Washington state. The kit includes simple equipment along with step-by-step instructions to ensure that within just two weeks the finished ale has a perfectly curated complex profile with citrus, floral and spicy notes. Now, dad can take his passion for beer to...
Father’s Day Gifts for Dad
Skin Care This affordable yet luxurious skin care line by Brickell Men Products steps in to make dad’s skin smooth and thrumming with vitality again—offering only the best of the best to the special man in your life. Brickell Men Products prides itself on using only the most natural and high-quality organic ingredients in its entire line of 73 products that range from skin care to body care and even hair and beard care. They also offer a variety of sets to fit every man’s needs, so you can find the best option possible for your needs. $13+, www.brickellmensproducts.com E.C....
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Celestial Silk’s 25 Momme Silk Pillowcases Not only are silk pillowcases great for your hair and skin, they are at the height of luxury. Celestial Silk’s 25 Momme Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase will help your mom feel like a queen. The pillowcases regulate body temperature to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They are hypoallergenic and safe for all skin and hair types. They come with either a zipper enclosure or envelope style with a hidden flap. You can select from standard, queen and king sizes along with a variety of colors and prints. $34.99;...
Transforming Theme Parks for the Holidays
Working at night, crews with cranes & ladders transform theme parks for the holidays in a hurry. Visiting local theme parks is an extra special experience for families during the holidays as the parks are dressed in their holiday best. But it takes fast-working crews to, in a matter of weeks, transform Knott’s Scary Farm into Knott’s Merry Farm, turn Disneyland into something less spooky, take the Halloween Horror Nights out of Universal Studios and end the “Brick or Treat” at LEGOLAND. Getting those holiday decorations in place is an extra-special challenge for the decorating teams at the parks as...
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
May the 31st be with you — a day that will be extra special for all of our “Star Wars” fans around Southern California as the newest addition to the Happiest Place on Earth opens its doors to the public! The much-anticipated Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is opening on May 31 so all of our young padawans, smugglers and clone troopers can step into the world of the Jedi. Separated into two opening stages, the newest region of Disneyland is set in the Outer Rim destination Batuu, a smuggler haven far from the prying eyes of the First Order. Guests...
Summer-Only Attractions at SoCal Theme Parks
Walkabout with kangaroos, go under the sea with sharks, hang out with Western characters, Kung Fu with a panda, or pal around with Pixar characters—all at Southern California theme parks this summer. Here are seven summer-exclusive attractions and theme park additions for families to enjoy: 1. Walkabout Australia at the San Diego Safari Park in Escondido offers visitors a chance to walk through a more than three-acre area filled with kangaroos, wallabies and other critters from the Land Down Under. The walking tour emulates the Australian landscape as the ‘roos and other critters hop close by. 2. See sharks, and...
Waterpark Nostalgia
(Photo Courtesy of Wild Rivers) Wild Rivers is back in Irvine to create new lasting memories for families. It’s been 11 years since Orange County waterpark Wild Rivers made a splash in Irvine. This summer, locals and visitors can make their way back for a new wave of memories as the iconic park returns to Irvine “bigger and better” than ever. “Wild Rivers President Mike Reidel has been tirelessly working for 12 years to bring an all-new Wild Rivers to Orange County by securing the funding and the ideal location in the heart of Orange County at the Great Park,...
Influencing for Good
Find out how these social-media-influencing OC moms are using their platforms to give back. (Photo Courtesy of Irma Lomidze) Tina Sadri Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Family: Husband, Ehsan; Sofia, 9, Siena, 5 City: Newport Beach Handle: @tinasadri on Instagram and TikTok Website: tinasadri.com Follower Count: 195K on Instagram What is the focus of your social media influencing? “The overall theme of my social media is living a well-balanced life. I often have clients as a licensed marriage and family therapist who are extremely successful in one or two areas, but are lacking overall happiness. I find that paying equal...
A Healthy Outlook
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Reality TV star and OC mom Ashley Wahler talks about helping others feel beautiful through hair, and raising awareness about mental health and addiction. For as long as Ashley Wahler can remember, she’s always had a passion for hair. “My great-grandfather was a hair stylist who immigrated here from Italy, so it is definitely in my blood,” said Wahler, of Laguna Hills, who works at Indigenous Salon in Laguna Beach. In fact, she loves hair so much that she recently launched her own hair accessories line called The Gold Collection by Ashley Wahler. If Wahler’s...
Cool to Be Kind
Local mom creates book systems teaching kids that success is built on character. Being a mother doesn’t come with a handbook. So Danielle LaBriola, mother of two, decided to write her own book. A series of them, actually. Her book series, Crafting Character, is a five-trait system of books with accompanying interactive plushies that help cultivate the best character from kids. “I struggled to conceive my ‘miracle babies’ so I went all-in trying to be a perfect parent,” says LaBriola. Living in Coto de Caza with her 11-year-old twins, Jack and Scarlett, LaBriola says she planned amazing adventures for her...
A New Normal for Mompreneurs
Find out how these OC mompreneurs have adjusted and adapted throughout 2020. Jasmine Roth Age: 36 Family: Husband, Brett; daughter, Hazel, 5.5 months City: Huntington Beach Star of: HGTV’s “Help! I Wrecked My House”; previously on “Hidden Potential” How did your passion for home construction and design begin? “By accident! I started building a house for my husband and I, and it sorta snowballed into a career. Whoops! That said, it's been a lot of hard work and dedication to get into this space and leave my mark. I still feel like an outsider and I'm constantly trying to prove...
Orange County Influential Mothers
These social media mavens and moms have some serious marketing clout as influencers—and have tons of fun doing it. In this age of tech and gadgetry, a new type of marketing opportunity has sprouted from the seeds of social media. The result? Social media influencers. These influencers are powerful experts and personalities who have amassed a significant social media following. In fact, the fans—which number in the thousands and millions—are so large that companies and brands pay these influencers for a mention. These influencers can include anyone with a niche market—from travel to beauty and fashion—including moms. Orange County is...
Healthy Living Advice from a Fitness Trainer
Fitness trainer Nancy Anderson offers words of advice for keeping your family healthy. Family fitness is an important topic for trainer Nancy Anderson. She’s not only passionate about helping moms lose the “baby fat,” but she’s developing a new program specializing in all stages of motherhood—from preconception through pregnancy and beyond. “Everything I teach and include in my programs is completely evidence-based and grounded in research,” says Anderson, who is also a celebrity trainer, nutritionist and CEO of Nancy Anderson Fit, based in Dallas, Texas and Newport Beach. “I also take a unique and targeted approach to addressing common issues...
Mom Time
Mompreneur Cristina Gamarnik saw a need in the community for a safe space for new moms, and The Mommy Center was born…
Creature Comforts
(Ethan with Anneliese Schools miniature horse/ Photo Courtesy of Anneliese Schools) Anneliese Schools Animal Care Coordinator Janet O’Faolain talks about the important role animals can play in child development. Stefanie Speed A New York native, Janet O’Faolain found it therapeutic being around the horses in Central Park. She learned about therapeutic horsemanship and began volunteering in the Bronx. When she moved to California, she volunteered at The Shea Center in San Juan Capistrano. “I was studying yoga and yoga therapy while volunteering,” she said. “I wanted to do both. In 2008, I became a therapeutic riding instructor through...
Summer Science Programs for Kids
[caption id="attachment_31917" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo courtesy of Bionerds Inc.[/caption] The ruddy duck is a diving bird. Its plump, cinnamon-colored body bobs on the surface of a pond at the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, supposedly catching its breath. Audubon naturalist Jay Miller points out the duck’s baby-blue beak, a beak so bright people have asked him if it was painted on. A collective gasp rises from the audience as it dips out of view. Another cry is heard: “Look! An osprey!” The giant bird, wings poised in a shallow V, sails across the sky. But it wasn’t Miller who identified it:...
Marine Life and Coastal Adventures in Orange County
[caption id="attachment_34890" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo by Mike Johnson/Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari[/caption] We don’t have to go far to experience marine life and coastal adventures in Orange County. This might not be the time of year to take a cooling swim in the ocean waves. But it’s definitely the right season to appreciate living along the coast in ways that are just as fun. February and the next couple of months are prime whale-watching season as the California gray whales work their way north back to Alaska. There’s a good chance you’ll see a lot more, too. Whales...
Fried, Fatty, Fun Fair Foods
The annual OC Fair is back at the Costa Mesa fairgrounds with an eclectic assortment of the most unique eats for the entire family to stuff their faces. Here are six of this summer’s must-tries. Spaghetti Donut No, it’s not spaghetti on top of a donut; it’s donut-shaped spaghetti. This latest food craze, which reaches far beyond the culinary laboratories of county fairs, combines the mobility of a donut with the flavor of pasta. The “donut” (which more closely resembles a bagel) is made with heavy whipping cream, mozzarella cheese and spaghetti and is topped with pesto, Alfredo or marinara...