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KUNG FU PANDA 3: SO NICE I SAW IT TWICE!

February 23, 2016February 24, 2016by debrafrombrooklynLeave a Comment

For two weekends in a row ‘Kung Fu Panda 3‘s slay at the box office continued. Crushing its competition the film threw down like the Broncos but by weekend 3, and now this past weekend, its fourth week out, competition got tougher for our cuddly hero Po as he went up against the super hottie-hero, Ryan Reynolds in ‘Deadpool‘.

Coming in second for two weekends since Deadpool’s arrival our Kung Fu fighting Panda bear fought hard to retain a top spot even beating out newcomers ” How To Be Single’ and ‘Zoolander.’

Pat on the back to me for taking the kids over the weekend, thuds counting ourselves amongst those helping Po to stay on top at the box office-

Our hero Po must find his Chi to save the Masters

I have a confession and will admit that seeing the movie on Saturday was my second helping of KFP3 . Need I say more! It was so nice, I saw it twice!!

For families who haven’t seen this latest installment of the Kung Fu Panda franchise, a trip to the cinema is definitely in order. In this version our dumpling popping Kung Fu hero’s long-lost poppa-Panda materializes. Reunited, he takes Po to a secret Panda village to meet scores of other cute Panda characters. Looming though, to wreck the happy family reunion is the appearance of Kai (J.K. Simmons), an evil villain who has returned from the spirit world to steal the powers of all living Kung Fu Masters. Po’s mission? He must master his chi thus find the secret to his own powers within,in order to stop Kai.

Raking in over $294 mil worldwide thus far, it is obvious to all that this third installment of the cuddly warrior-hero Panda and his posse of kick-butt pals including Tigress (voiced by Angelina Jolie), Viper (Lucy Liu) and newcomer Mei Mei ( Kate Hudson) is destined like its sister installments —Kung Fu Panda and Kung Fu Panda 2 to be a family favorite. A breakdown of the franchise and its box office numbers can be seen here at Box Office Mojo.

Crownheightsmom aloing with a number of other mom bloggers caught up with stars Lucy Liu and Kate Hudson during the stars’ press stop in New York to promote KFP3 earlier this month . The actors, both parents popped in together to chat with Melissa Gerstein of the MOMS after a screening of the movie at the Regal Union Square theater. Liu, dressed in an elegant knee high black dress and Hudson in a baby pink pantsuit paired with a grey cashmere sweater were all smiles and excited to be chatting it up about the movie and their involvement.

Hudson sitting crossed legged shared with the audience, “when I saw the character she was so fun and funny.” Hudson voices the girl diva Panda,, Mei Mei.

“I got a call from Jeffrey Katzenberg who said ‘we would you like you to come play the part of Mei Mei.’ It all kinda happened last minute and having known Jeffrey forever I said yeah sure, why not! “

“To get one [character] that is so funny, I got really excited because she is so adorable.”

Kate Hudson plays the adorable ribbon dancing panda diva Mei Mei — Kate Hudson plays the adorable ribbon dancing panda diva, Mei Mei.

mei_hero — The adorable Mei Mei voiced by Kate hudson

The conversations with the two mom stars ventured from the movie and onto parenting. When Gerstein touched upon mom regrets in parenting, Hudson shared about the time she took her now 11 year old son Ryder–he was 5 or 6 at the time —along with her to see American Idiot, the Green Day play on Broadway.

“When Ryder was younger he loved Green Day .So I took him to the play.” Recalls Hudson , “as I enter the theater everyone is looking at me like, ‘why does Kate Hudson have her young child at this play? ”

“So a few minutes into the play and here I am with my sweatshirt over his [Ryder’s] head and I am like ‘I am out! ” she tells us laughing.

Lui didn’t share any parenting faux pas but she did dish on why she loves doing animation flicks. KFP3 is Liu’s third ride alongside Jack Black and Angelina Jolie .

For Liu, she shared , there is comfort in doing animation. “You get to show up in your sweatpants.”

“You are also in a room by yourself and I was in NYC so I would do skype and facetime session with the director, [Jennifer Yu Nelson] and that is how she directed me. ” Adds Liu, “you really have a limited idea of what they want in terms of the visual aspect because the film isn’t done at that point .so they were very flexible.

This is Lucy Liu's third time around playing Viper in the the KFP franchise — This is Lucy Liu’s third time around playing Viper in the the KFP franchise

Liu also talked a bit about her ethnicity telling the audience. “Everybody is always asking me how is it to be an Asian American actress. I am like, I really don’t know! I really don’t want to talk about it anymore. I can talk about being an actress .I can talk about being an artist. About being someone in the industry but I do not want to talk about the fact that I am Asian American and an actress because it is the same thing .”In the end it is about talent and that is what really stands out.”

http://themoms.com/the-moms-lynx-fitness-chevy-tri-state-kate-hudson-lucy-liu-kung-fu-panda-3-mamarazzi/

So run, don’t walk and go see Kung Fu Panda 3. My kids really enjoyed the movie with my son Kai getting a kick out of the bad guy being named Kai but making sure to point out that he’s a good boy…..

By Debra Lewis-Boothman

Warrior Kai from the Spirit World wants Po’s Chi

Out of 5 Popcorn Stars the kids give Kung Fu Panda 3 – 5 –

Animated Movies, Bing Bong Is Bill Haders Favorite Character, Family, Family Movies, Fun, Happy, Kid Movies, Movies, Summer Movies

EMOTIONS GONE WILD? NOT REALLY! JOY AND SADNESS GET TO WORK HARMONIOUSLY TO SAVE THE DAY IN PIXAR’S ‘INSIDE OUT’…….by Debra Lewis-Boothman

June 22, 2015June 22, 2015by debrafrombrooklyn1 Comment

The emotional character from Pixar's "Inside Out" — Anger (voice of Lewis Black), Fear (voice of Bill Hader), Joy (Amy Poehler), Disgust (voice of Mindy Kaling) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith)

While sitting inside the Dolby Screening Room at a recent MOMS screening of Disney Pixar’s animated movie ‘Inside Out‘ three pairs of eyes looked over at me to see if I was crying. I had taken my 9-year old daughter, Kameko, my 7-year old son Kai and his friend Lexi Anne also 7, along to the screening.

Three cute NYC kids attending Pixar's 'Inside Out' — Lexi Anne 7, Kai 7 and Kameko 9 are over-the-moon happy after seeing the MOMS’ screening of “Inside Out”at the Dolby Screening Room on June 12

At a particular point in the movie Kai and Lexi Anne began whispering to each .I then noticed that they were staring intently at me to see if I had tears streaming down. I quickly said before they could say anything, “Hey, guys are those tears I see in YOUR eyes? ” They each quickly replied “No”, with Kai admitting soon after with, “Oh just a little. That was a sad part.” I in turn replied, “Yes that was a sad part and I did cry just a little.” My daughter Kameko hearing our whispers chose then to announce matter-of-factly, with Kai in the background nodding, “Mommy cries a lot at movies. She likes to let her feelings out. She also cried during [Rihanna’s movie] Home, and at [ Michael Rapaport’s] Little Boy.

” Shhh, don’t tell anyone, I say to Kameko as Lexi Anne looks on and a mom sitting in earshot turns around and smiles at me.

I learned then that kids are always paying full attention and especially taking in our emotions. Yup, my kids are definitely paying attention to mine.Which gets me back to Inside Out.

Screeing Pixar's 'Inside Out" at NYC's Dolby Screening Room — Kameko, LexiAnne and Kai catching up on kids stuff before watching Inside Out at the Dolby Screening Room on June 12

I truly enjoyed this film and so did the kids. They have already asked to see it again and I have promised a movie night over the summer break. I definitely see it becoming one of our Pixar family faves the same way, Toy Story and Wall-E has become. I also already know that this movie including all its merchandising products will be on their Xmas lists this year.

About the movie if you haven’t seen it yet. The movie centers around pre-teen Riley, an 11-year-old girl who is uprooted from her Midwest home and life as she knows it -to now reside in the urban city landscape of San Francisco when her dad takes a new job transplanting the family almost 2,000 miles away.

For Riley this couldn’t come at a worst life stage- the pre-teen years – a ball of emotions . Her feelings of being taken away from life-long friends, from ice-hockey games on the lake — to now being the new kid having to make new friends and at a new school .Overwhelming? To her , it’s the end of the world.

But this is where it gets interesting – Yes , Inside Out is about 11-year-old Riley, but behind the scenes the real stars that take center stage are her emotions that are wrecking havoc in her brain — enter the five brightly colored characters that represent joy, sadness, anger, fear and disgust . Riley’s emotions.

These five conflicting emotions literally take over the pre-teen’s life as she attempts to try to fit in to her new surroundings but her emotional “headquarters ” where these five characters reside is full of non stop activity. Joy ( voice of Poehler ) the mother hen, leader and voice of reason tries to keep Riley happy and positive while the other emotions each vying to be the “top-dog emotion ” to dominate Riley’s inner life, they just seem to complicate matters sending everything into a tailspin and lending to a movie that is laugh-out-loud, funny, exciting, colorful and splashed with traces of sadness mixed in.

It will definitely be a walk down childhood’s memory lane and filled with nostalgia for most adults .

Seeming to be at the forefront though is the message that sadness and joy can work hand in hand for an outcome of happiness and good. In reality, we do go through sadness or loss in order to encounter happiness at the end of the rainbow. This message though, might go over kids’ heads as they are watching the movie with it brightly colored and cute as ever characters. So the take-away lesson of, “it may take sadness before you get happy” may be a bit too much for them to take in –older ones will get it – but this is one of the messages I found to be recurring.

Actor Bill Hader talks to The MOMS about loving 'Bing Bong" — Bill Hader (Fear) popped in for a super fast chat with the MOMS.

Stopping by just before the start of the screening for a quick Q&A with the MOMS’ co-creators, Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein was actor Bill Hader. The actor plays the voice of Fear in the movie.

Bill Hader is that Guy! He is Fear--some — Bill Hader tell PEOPLE Magazine he “kinda stalked” Pixar execs to play the role of FEAR

Speaking to the kids Hader says , “When you see Fear come in , thats my voice, ” adding “Do you know that this ( movie) is from the same guys that made “Toy Story ” and “Monsters Inc” and “Up?”

On how he snagged his role Hader recently told PEOPLE he “stalked” Pixar execs . He did say at the screening, “I was such a fan of Pixar [their] movies that I went to where they worked and I asked, ‘Can you please put me in one if your movies’. I wouldn’t leave and now because of my persistence, I play Fear in the movie.”

The actor also told the kids that he’s done some other well known kid movies. ” I have been in “Cloudy and a Chance of Meatballs,” I played Lachlan,” he says.

On his favorite character in the movie and no, it is not his character! Hader declares, “My favorite character is a character by the name of Bing Bong.” Adds the former SNL star, “When Bing Bong shows up just brace yourselves. He’s the best character in the movie!”

Actor Richard Kind plays Bing Bong who cries candy tears. — Actor Bill Hader says he is a huge fan of Bing Bong played by actor Richard Kind.

The movie took a few years to make . ” It took five years . I’m not kidding, says Hader of the making of Inside Out. Adds Hader, “Back in 2011, I went to Pixar and I started recording with Amy Poehler who plays Joy and Mindy Palin who play Disgust and others. So five years of recording. That’s how long it takes to make one of these movies.”

To finally see it Hader says, “It is a beautiful, beautiful film and we are so happy.” Say the father of three, “The cast and film-makers all got to see the finished product three months ago. We all went to Skywalker Ranch, that’s George Lucas’ ranch where all the Star Wars stuff is. We got to watch the movie in a room(screening room) like this and we were laughing and crying.”

Yes the movie will make you laugh and cry.

I recommend that families go together to see Inside Out. I loved that the movie in a special way lets both children and adults know feelings of joy, sadness, anger disgust, or even fear do work harmoniously together inside of us .

The kids gives their ratings. Inside Out gets 5 out of 5 POPCORN STARS! .

The kids summed up their feelings in this pic below:

'LOVE it" -How kids feel about 'Inside Out.' — The kids say this pic represents their feeling about ‘Inside Out.’ They “LOVED” it!

Also read what they had to say about the movie below:

I loved that sadness and joy worked as a team even though they are opposites— KAMEKO, 9

Anger always made me laugh…KAI, 7

I loved that Joy was alway happy and never gave up on Riley and holding on to her happy memories.–KAMEKO, 9

Joy is always happy. I like when people are happy. LEXI ANNE, 7

Even though Sadness is always sad, she has courage.–KAI, 7

It was a very emotional movie and it was about emotions. It actually made me feel sad at some places.—-KAI, 7

My favorite part of the movie was when Riley was a little girl and she had an imaginary friend named Bing Bong. I liked how Riley made up a song about her imaginary friend.—LEXI ANNE, 7

imgres-1 — Bing Bong is Riley’s imaginary friend from her early childhood. He’s a mix of an elephant, a cat, cotton candy and can squeal like a dolphin.

The Lyrics to Riley’s and Bing Bong’s song….

Who’s your friend who likes to play?

Bing Bong, Bing Bong

His rocket makes you want to yell hooray

Bing Bong, Bing Bong

Who’s the best at every way, and wants to sing this song to say

Bing Bong, Bing BONG!

Check out the trailer below and go see ‘Inside Out’ at your nearest movie theater in your city ,See Fandango for listings

INSIDE OUT is now playing WITH THE VOICES OF: Amy Poehler (Joy), Phyllis Smith (Sadness), Richard Kind (Bing Bong), Bill Hader (Fear), Lewis Black (Anger), Mindy Kaling (Disgust), Kaitlyn Dias (Riley), Diane Lane (Mom), Kyle MacLachlan (Dad).

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RED, HOT AND LOVING HER 40s MOLLY SIMS TELLS-IT-LIKE-IT-IS IN NEW BOOK by Debra Lewis-Boothman

February 12, 2015February 14, 2015by debrafrombrooklynLeave a Comment

Supermodel Molly Sims and her baby bump wears red like no one’s business. She stuns in it!

RED HOTTT! Molly Sims who is 8-months pregnant stuns in red.

Celebrating the release of her new book “The Everyday Supermodel” at the Artisanal Fromagerie Bistro on Jan 29, six-time Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model Molly Sims shared tips on beauty, fashion, wellness, parenting and what it’s like to be in her 40s.

“It takes work, it is not handed to you,” the former model declared about looking beautiful . “In my 20 year journey, I did not look like this, ( pointing at herself .) I look better at 41 than when I was 21,” the shared with mom bloggers including Crownheightsmom who attended the afternoon luncheon and MOMS Mamarazzi event with hosts Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein co-creators of the MOMS brand. “We are all self made women, so try and embrace the now, ” Sims told the attendees whom all left with a signed copy of her book which gives advice , tells-it-like-it-is truths, and gives insider insights from some of the best industry experts from beauty, health, fitness and fashion.

PAGE TUNER: Molly Sims shares beauty, fashion and wellness tips in her newest book

The afternoon luncheon brought out many mom bloggers . It was co-sponsored by the MOMS and Big Belli Co presents 40Weeks -the movie pregnant women have been waiting for. See more at 40weeksthemovie.com. Available March 1 on DVD and Download.

Molly Sims is interviewed by Dominique Debroux,the founder of Big Belli Co.

The former Victoria Secret Supermodel shared chic and figure flattering style advice for every budget as well as on-the-go workouts to help women move, dance, spin and stretch their way into their hotter healthier selves . Yes, it takes work, but aren’t we all works in progress? Taking care of ourselves daily by eating and drinking healthy, treating ourselves to simple beauty regiments and daily exercise pays off.

Molly share a group hug and a group laugh with Dominique Debroux of co founder of Big Belli Co, Melissa of the MOMS and filmmaker Christopher Henz — Molly Sims shares a group hug and a group laugh with Dominique Debroux founder of Big Belli Co, Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein of the MOMS and filmmaker Christopher Henze of 40 Weeks on DVD/Download Mar 1

“I did not always look like this. I worked hard to get to where I am today, ” Sims declared. “Do you think I looked like this when I was 19 years old? Well I didn’t . I worked my ass off. I was 20 pound overweight. I had brown hair, I had braces, I had acne, ” she says.

Inspiration is all around you notes Sims. “As the years go by I changed. I was like a sponge and I am still like a sponge. I look at magazines. I look at celebrities, I look at other moms. Anybody can change themselves .I am a firm believer in that you can do anything you want to do. I am from Kentucky.I went to public school. I have been a waitress, and a really bad waitress. I was a sales lady and a really good one because I was honest .I would tell customers you cant wear that but you can wear this and I always had my returning customers. If someone said to me you should do this I was ok I will try it. Some women are critical and they take it so personally. I have been told my calves are too bigs, my arms are too big, I’m too fat, your hair should be longer your hair should be shorter.I cant believe you would wear that .I have heard it all .”

It's all about Molly , Debra and the book — More selfie fun with Molly Sims and Crownheightsmom Debra Lewis-Boothman

She’s can relate to the every day woman. “I’m not different from you. Anything you can say I can probably say that I have been told that. I have learned from so many . I took tips from people. I always suggest that you should find someone you look up to and learn from them . Also, learn your body.

Crownheightsmom catches up with the MOMS co-creators Denise and Melissa

Want to feel good about yourself, Sims a big yoga enthusiast asked .”Get out of the sweatpants and put on a pair of jeans,” she says. Adding that she doesn’t follow trends . “Once it looks good on I just put a sweater or a jacket on over it.”

The “House of Style” host and “Las Vegas” star asked that those attending do something for her, “Never ever say you are going on a diet and never look at a picture and be like ugh God, I hate this picture.'”

Speaking of pictures Sims shared and showed how she’s been storing all of the thousands of photos and videos she’s amassed over the years especially those of her husband Scott Stuber and 2-year old son Brooks Alan . Sims told the group that she’s been using LYVE App the new photo sharing and storing app that saves and collects all of her photos and videos she has stored on different devices –mobile phones, computers, cameras, and ipads. She says that Lyve has really helped her to keep photos in one place . “They have installed a small device in my home office and has been working to collect and catalog just about every photograph and video I’ve ever captured with a digital camera. I don’t envy the device. During the last decade just like almost everyone else on the planet, I went bananas for photos and videos. I estimate I’ve more than 20,000 pictures and clips spread across phones, tablets and a handful of far-flung folders on a handful of computers,” she says.

Sims uses LYVE to keep her photos and videos together

KmlmGGR1figMjd62zP_vmhgnRbhJIWb2esAiqzeHsb05_mdO4_V2Iv8pNJfpxxGXH4Ct9LdB8yH8vuI0ZNxBBo-150x150 — Molly Sims uses Lyve to store her keepsake photos and video memories

Mom bloggers mill around the LYVE App device — Mom bloggers gather around the LYVE App device to get info and see demonstrations featuring pics of Sims and her family

Molly Sims’ is FUN! She is funny and open and warm. This new book will definitely do well . Molly shows moms and women how to balance it . The event was wonderful and the midtown restaurant Artisanal Fromagerie Bistro was the perfect place to hold it. The luncheon menu included a mix of sandwiches and salads and delicious treats for dessert. Crownheightsmom will definitely be heading back to taste the full menu at a later date.

Yummy eats from Artisianal Fromagerie Bistro

Moms enjoying luncheon — Moms bloggers enjoying the luncheon

To keep up with Molly go pick up her book at local bookshops and online and definitely go to her website mollysims.com

Molly Sims and her bump — Molly Sims looking fab at 8 months points to her bump

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ASHLEE SIMPSON ROSS GLOWS ALONGSIDE FAMILIES AT CRAYOLA’S COLOR ALIVE LAUNCH by Debra Lewis-Boothman

February 9, 2015February 11, 2015by debrafrombrooklynLeave a Comment

A pregnant Ashlee Simpson Ross wasn’t shy about taking coloring tips from her 6 year old son Bronx while attending the February 5 Manhattan launch of Crayola’s newest product Color Alive . The pregnant star and her husband of five months, Evan Ross were smiling and having a great time seeing Bronx enjoying himself and coloring alongside mom bloggers and their kids. Excitedly showing his mum his drawings and his coloring skills Bronx was having loads of fun.

A family that colors together: Ashlee Simpson Ross with he son Bronx (dad is Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy) and husband Evan Ross, the youngest of Diana Ross’ children

.The mum-to-be and her new hubby were not to be left out of the coloring fun jumping into the crayoning action and using the Color Alive app to bring their coloring creations to life. The young couple definitely showed that Color Alive is as much fun for adults as it is for kids.

Simpson and her husband activating the Color Alive experience through the free app aims the tablet’s camera at the colored page. They were having loads of fun .

Simpson and family also spent time mingling alongside Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein, co-creators of the MOMS and amongst invited mom bloggers and their kids. The singer even stopping to take pics and a few selfies with attendees.

Simpson joinsthe MOMS co-creators Denise Albert [L]and Melissa Musen Gerstein [R] — Simpson joins the MOMS co-creators Denise Albert [L]and Melissa Musen Gerstein [R]

Dressed in black skinny leather pants and an oversized burgundy top covering her baby bump the mom-to-be glowed. Ross making his own fashion statement was fashionable in an oversized coat and worsted boots. The young couple are expecting their first child, a girl together this year

Ashlee who is having a girl looked fabulous in her skin tight leather leggings and flowing burgundy shirt

The fun afternoon saw kids and adults alike enjoying Color Alive which is available in four coloring books : Skylander, Barbie, Enchanted Garden and Mythical Creatures. Each book contain 16 pages and features a unique character and animation and comes with seven crayons including one Magic Crayon that unlocks a special virtual effect. Everyone enjoyed learning how Crayola is changing the world of coloring forever with their free Color Alive app.

Ashlee Simpson Ross with her son Bronx and husband Evan Ross

My kids loved everything about the Color Alive event. They weren’t fully aware that there was a celebrity in the house as they were all about checking out the different coloring books, playing dress up in the character costumes, spending time coloring the different characters and getting to launch the app . The finger foods was also a big hit with them especially the colored french fries, the fried green beans and the chicken skewers. They could not get enough of the lemonade and found it ah-mazing that they could order their own flavors from the server at the Lemonade Stand. The Blueberry flavored offering was their favorite choice.

Kai is really getting into character with the help of the available costumes — Kai is really getting into character

Whew finally an opportunity to get a chance to sit and color — Finally an opportunity to get a chance to sit and color.

Starry Eyes: At the Barbie station playing

Virtual World: Kai seeing his Skylander drawing come to life with the Color Alive app as he's taped on tv — Virtual World: Kai seeing his Skylander drawing come to life with the Color Alive app as he’s taped on tv

The cheese covered fries came in pink and yellow. They were AWESOMELY colorful and delicious — The Fries were AWESOMELY colorful and delicious

Kai is really into sfinishing up to see his Skylander drawing come alice — Kai finishing up his Skylander drawing before having it come alive on a tablet

LEMONADE...LEMONADE the tarty colorful drinks were a massive hit with everyone . — LEMONADE…LEMONADE the tarty colorful drinks were a massive hit with everyone .

It was hard to pull the kids away and head for home but when told that they would each receive a swag bag of Color Alive goodies to leave with they were beyond overjoyed. When they saw that it was a mini backpack containing Color Alive loot the look on their faces? Well it was pure excited Joy! The excitement is still ongoing.

The SWAGGG bag. A big hit. Train ride home was all about coloring and other kids on the train wanted to know where to purchase

Looking to add some excitement to your kid’s afternoon . I suggest you grab yourself Crayola’s Color Alive. Trust me, it is non-stop fun for everyone in the family. Just go to crayola.com .

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CROWNHEIGHTSMOM CATCHES THE FLU AND REFLECTS ON THE MOM GUILT IT CAUSED …by Debra Lewis-Boothman

January 22, 2015January 22, 2015by debrafrombrooklynLeave a Comment

Just four days after appearing on WPIX TV 11 in NYC talking about mom guilt I found myself laid up in bed with the flu and feeling just awful inside about getting it.

crownheightsmom isick in bed with the flu

Click to WPIX-TV 11-Mom Guilt

I was pretty much feeling annoyed at myself for coming down with the flu . I mean it’s not like I have super powers to shield myself from all colds and flu but the “It’s your own fault” voice echoed over and over heavily in my head. Blame myself I did because as of the writing of this post I still have yet to get a flu shot.

I know, but I just never got around to getting it. I meant to but kept putting it off because I rarely get sick and whenever I do get the flu shot I end up sick two weeks after. So this year I said to myself I will see if I can make do without it and like many healthy people who take their vitamins supplements, exercise, eat well and run daily. I figured, I would be ok.

Looking back, I should have visited my docs office when I saw the glaring headlines stating that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention had released flu data reports showing that the 2014-2015 flu season was at epidemic levels with 8.5% of deaths occurring due to pneumonia and influenza. The report also said that this was an increase from the year and with 19 reported deaths. There was no data for adult death as the only keeps tracks of children’s death and the 19 CDC reported cases were all of children having died of the flu across the United States.

Click to go to the CDC.

Weighing heavily on my mind since coming down with the flu were thoughts of ‘I do not want the children to catch it.’ I felt assured that they wouldn’t because my husband and I made sure they’d received their flu shots when school began in September. My only hope was in that the vaccine would protect them from this bad strain of flu going around hoping their little immune systems stay strong. Right after the first snowstorm in November we started to give them daily does of elderberry vitamins to help boost their immune systems and I began to pack an orange a day in their lunch boxes and have been giving them more tangerines and grapefruit slices to boost that Vitamin-C intake . Knock-on-wood, I can say that so far so good. These have helped.

WP_20150121_001 — Zarbees Elderberry for kids helps their immune system stay healthy

Day 5 of being bed bound, I literally crawled out of my bed and forced myself to go outside taking our dog Hiro with me out for a walk. This was more so because I really needed the walk more than our Akita did . I needed to feel the cold air biting my cheekbones and passing through my nostrils. Doing this would somehow cleanse me of this flu bug that had invaded my body and rendered me down, but definitely not out.

Going for a walk with our dog Hiro helped big time!

I was definitely thankful that it was the long MLK holiday weekend so the worry of shuttling back and forth on the subway with the kids I did not have to do until Wednesday. This thankfully gave me some extra time to recover at home.

On the mend . I owe my recovery to a little vegetable called Ginger root . Yes, thank goodness for ginger root. I live by this veggie’s properties which act as a herb . I am drinking my ump-teenth glass of ginger tea, which as far as I am concerned is the reason that I am feeling so much better. With my appetite gone, my six times a day freshly grated ginger root tea became my constant companion. Simmered in hot water with a teaspoon of brown sugar to taste I devoured a cup of it every two hours .Boy, did it work wonders. It got me on the mend and I cannot recommend it enough. It also helps that it tastes oh so good. It has definitely been my savior.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR OWN GLASS OF GINGER ROOT TEA .

What you will need to begin –

Wash 3 roots of fresh ginger and freeze overnight in a zip lock bag.. (Note – fresh ginger root is usually sold at your local supermarket, in the fruit and vegetable section. You can also find at the Korean Vegetable grocers . Pick up enough to last you a few weeks .. You are freezing the ginger because it makes it easier to grate it .)

You can choose to peel off the beige skin or keep it on. I usually peel mine.

Grate one root and scoop the grated contents into your personal coffee mug

Add hot water and sweeten with brown sugar or your chosen sweetener to taste. You can also choose not to sweeten.

The ginger root’s pulp will settle at the bottom of your cup. Stir it up and drink up all the contents . It’s the grated pulp thats the secret weapon to curing you and getting you on the mend.

With my flu ebbing away as I sipped on my ginger tea my only wish was that it would also cure the mom guilt I felt about getting sick. I finally decided that I was going to stop beating myself up about it. I am not a genie or a wizard with powers to protect myself from getting sick. It’s nature, it happens and I was over feeling guilty about it .

Looking into the subject of Mom Guilt I found that moms all walks of life—-rich, poor, black, white all experience this guilt. Although usually attributed to working moms —-as was discussed on WPIX-TV 11—-and moms balancing home and work life I found that mom guilt attaches itself to a woman the moment she gives birth and stay-at-home moms battle it just as often as working mom do .

Looking back at my own mom guilt , I tried to recall how far back it ran and hit it on the nail at the newborn stage when i would feel guilt if the babies cried too much. I remember usually thinking maybe I didn’t nurse long enough or maybe I didn’t spend enough time burping. As they got older the newborn guilt transferred into the toddler guilt and those feelings included the am I spoiling them, am I giving in and lifting them up whenever they cried , is the temper tantrum a result of my not being in control., there was also the diaper rash guilt feelings of feeling responsible for leaving on that wet diaper way too long, and the not packing enough snacks or clothes when we went out for when messes occurred. The list goes on and on and it made me ask my husband if he ever experiences any dad guilt feelings. He said of course dads get it too. But my response to this was not in the same way moms do .

When I appeared alongside Denise and Melisssa of the MOMS on PIX 11-TV NY discussing this topic morning news anchor Sukanya Kirshnan gave out tips to help combat it. See below.

http://pix11.com/2015/01/12/dealing-with-moms-guilt/

I am happy that my husband held down the fort while I was out of commission helping with the take home homework, making breakfast, lunch and dinner and doing the food shopping. He allowed me to get all the rest I needed in order to get back to a healthy place.

Cheers to him as I sip on another cup of ginger tea . Baby, I am back!

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PADDINGTON BEAR MOVIE SHINES WITH AN EXTREMELY CUTE BEAR, A VILLAINOUS NICOLE KIDMAN AND CLASSIC CALYPSO MUSIC Debra Lewis-Boothman

January 12, 2015January 16, 2015by debrafrombrooklynLeave a Comment

A warm, feel good family movie that will make you laugh, scream, cry and cheer-crownheightsmom

Nicole Kidman who stars in the Paddington Bear movie opening Jan 16 says she would have done a lot more movies her kids could go see if only she was offered children’s film scripts she found interesting. That time my friends has finally come and it’s just wonderful!

“It [children’s movies] was something I have always wanted to do ,” says Kidman 47. ” I don’t get offered a lot of children’s films I find interesting or compelling.” The star sat with the MOMS‘ Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein for their first Mamarazzi event of 2015, before screening the Paddington Bear movie at the Film Society at Lincoln Center on Jan 7. “It was just a gorgeous script,” says Kidman. “Adorable!” the star adds.

Nicole Kidman plays a not-so-sweet Natural History Museum Taxidermist

The movie released already across France and the UK has grossed international box-office receipts totaling $109,713,825 thus far according to Box Office Mojo .It is set to open in the USA on Jan 16.

Paddington is the type of family movie that will certainly have adults and kids alike swooning and wishing for their own real-life Paddington Bear. I, for one, after seeing the movie wanted to leave the screening room with a new addition to my family and loads of marmalade. I wanted a warm cuddly bear. Heck, give me the adoption papers ASAP, I will sign on the dotted line . Paddington Bear is a keeper.Not to mention, he’s as cute as a bug.

On all accounts I absolutely ADORED the movie. It has definitely achieved what Nic Kidman hoped movie audiences will take away after see the film. “For me, it is just so nice when people come out feeling great,” she tell Musen Gerstein. Adding, “It makes you feel good.” Indeed, it does Ms. Kidman. Indeed, it does!

The MOMS Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein both decked out in Trish — Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein both decked out in Trina Turk from Rent The Runway pose with Kidman.

Having already had the sneak peek, which, my kids were not too happy about missing I had to promised that our tix will be purchased way ahead of time on Jan 16 so we can go directly to the movie theater after school . In the meantime reading the new Paddington books at our local Barnes and Noble bookstore in Cobble Hill will suffice .

It is not often that Hollywood gets it right when it comes to film adaptations of books but with Paddington the seamless adaptation drawn from the characters immortalized in the books hooked me right away. Those not familiar with the books will certainly want to read more about this cuddly Peruvian’s bears many adventures.

The movie tapped into so many of my emotions within its 95 minutes—-I laughed, cried, cheered , jeered and soared . I became a kid again remembering back to my young childhood days of losing myself with Mr Bond as my guide while reading about Paddy on his adventures. There is never a dull moment.

You kids can pick up a book and read along with Paddington at bookstores nationwide — Your children can pick up a book and read along with Paddington .Reading is FUN!

Being married to a British citizen it was special looking for familiar sights and places I have been in London. Even more exciting was seeing and hearing the sweet sound of classic calypso music being played throughout the film. I am from Barbados so to know that the music of the late Trinidadian calypsonian, Lord Kitchener was included on the movie’s soundtrack was exciting. Kitchener’s flute tinged tune ” London is the Place for Me” adds to the movie’s splendor.

It has been said that Michael Bond the author and writer was so influenced by the caribbean culture in London during in the late 40s and early 50s that he include elements of it in his writings. It is definitely included beautifully in the movie.

See Lord Kitchener and others embarking on London in the 30’s below

See D Lime and Tobago Crusoe featured in the movie perform “London Is The Place for Me “below:

Kidman truly owns this role. Presently filming the drama “Genius” alongside actor Jude Law it was surprising to hear her share with the audience that she almost considered giving up the craft she loves. “At one point I was going to stop working,” she says. “It was happening when I was pregnant with Sunday. I talked to my mum about it. I said, I am done. My mum had given up her job to help raise us at home and she said to me, ‘You should still do something creative. Still keep a finger in the pot because I just feel that it is your destiny and you shouldn’t give that up completely. ‘”

Mom knows best. “I was thinking, ok maybe she is right.and so I went and started to do some films and started producing and that is how I manage my life now.” Plus, she adds, “I always have them[her family] travel with me. ”

Clearly having her family around her while filming impacted Kidman’s work. The results? A job well done!

Padding Bear opens nationwide on January 16. Check your local listings.

Click here for a history on Paddington Bear and his creator Michael Bond

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CROWNHEIGHTSMOM STRIKES A POSE IN HOLIDAY FASHIONS WITH THE MOMS ON WPIX-11 NY

December 30, 2014December 30, 2014by debrafrombrooklynLeave a Comment

I love strutting my stuff. Seriously though, tell me of a woman who doesn’t! We all do! So when Denise and Melissa of The MOMS platform asked if I was avail to join them for a holiday fashion segment on WPIX-11-Live in New York of course I shouted YASSSS, YAASSSS . The thought of being in a fashion segment on PIX-11 brought back memories of walking[see at 12:45 wearing red dress] in Strut The Fashionable MOM Show At Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week At Lincoln Center in 2013 .That experience is one that is still unforgettable.

Leading up to the big day on WPIX. Myself and mom-models Christy who tweets at @mstwocents and Jennifer who tweets at @mommadanddaboyz discussed with Denise some of the places we shop for reasonable mom fashions. I went with Century 21 as I just love their mix of designer and European fashions, Jennifer went with Burlington Coat Factory and Christy chose ThreadUP the online consignment shop.

I headed to Century 21 on Cortland Street directly across from the World Trade Center and tried on a few outfits .

WP_20141215_006 — This black jumpsuit fits just right and hits all the curves but I was still undecided. I paired it with black and salmon pumps to see which one would pop. I think I loved it with the black pumps best .

WP_20141215_004 — I loved this belted jumpsuit. Plus it was in grey which is the hot color of the season. I think the bold salmon pumps really made it pop!

All White Look: Inspired by Solange Knowles' choice of color for her wedding but resulted in a Janelle' Mona type vibe as I went went for the crisp snowflake color of winter paired with black and white loafers. — This all white look was inspired by Solange Knowles’ choice of color for her wedding but resulted in a Janelle’ Mona type vibe. The crop sweater in crisp snowflake color of winter white paired with the bold necklace added to the hipness.

PS_20141215143152_jpg — My CHOICE! This outfit was EVERYTHING from the Ivanka Trump pumps with gold buckle which retails for $140 but were on sale for $49 to the floral Renamed-Skirt with pockets which I loved at first sight and at a mere $34.99 paired with the off white faux fur vest at a bargain price of $28 . The look was completed with a spaghetti strap Splash white tank a mere $9.97.

The big day came I arrived at the PIX11 studios by 7:30am. I went through security and looked around for the others. The wait area was already buzzing and hair and makeup was alight with lots of movement. I said a brief hello to Councilman Mark Levine who was there to speak about the fatal NYPD shootings that had occurred in Brooklyn and how the Mayor was going forward with NYPD relations. Milling around also was a group dressed in holidays costumes of elves, santas and and santas helpers. They were getting their makeup applied and taking selfies. Needless to say the holiday excitement was uncontainable all around .

With my makeup applied I headed back to the wait area to greet Denise and Jennifer looking up I spotted supermodel Alex Wek as she walked into the wait area and head directly to the makeup area. I learned that Wek was there to speak with PIX-11 morning News Anchors Sukanya Krishnan and Kori Chambers about being chosen to push the button to release the Waterford Crystal Ball for the 60-second countdown to ring in 2015 in Times Square. Wek will be representing the International Rescue Committee (IRC) alongside its president David Miliband, South Sudanese model Nykhor Paul, local high school senior Sonam Lama and Cuban-American actor and singer Jencarlos Canela .

International Top Model Alex Wek will be ringing in the New Year .

Finally it was time to get in front of the cameras. Denise took her place next to Sukanya in a black Rent the Runway jumpsuit paired with suede Just Fab wedges. Her words of advise to us moms, “Just have fun ladies!” she said. Which is exactly what we did!

http://pix11.com/2014/12/22/holiday-looks-for-moms/#ooid=03YmJmcjr5oOSMfNQlNfpFNSxqdOz44C

Overall, it was an amazing experience and one that I will hold dear. Sukanya even told us that we could send greetings out to our loved ones. I said hello to my three kids and even got to send wishes to my students at Long Island University’s Brooklyn Campus. Thank you WPIX-11 and The MOMS. This was definitely a great lead in to a wonderful start of my New Year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! HAPPY NEW YEAR! HAPPY NEW YEAR! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Denise and Suk introducing our Holiday looks: Conservative, Edgy (that would be me) and Sporty — Denise and morning News Anchor Sukanya introducing the Holiday looks- Conservative, Edgy (that would be me) and Sporty.

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PATRICK GALLAGHER MAKES GIBBERISH COOL IN NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM 3 by Debra Lewis-Boothman

December 26, 2014January 25, 2015by debrafrombrooklynLeave a Comment

Hunna Nanga Dagga Doo……Oooh Chuu Kakasss Oola Mamm Chu Pa Kasss! Gibberish anyone?

Not up on the new lingo? Need help learning but don’t know whom to call. No worries just ask actor Patrick Gallagher currently on the big screen in Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb.

“I have been in all[Night at the Museum] and the best thing is I get to invent a language,” actor Patrick Gallagher shared with families during a MOMS screening of the third installment of the kid favorite film franchise on December 18 in New York City. Gallagher who plays Attila The Hun in the previous two installments dons the costume in what seems to be the movies’ final lap. Fans of the actor can also see him grace the small screen on the Jan 5 episode of NCIS-Los Angeles. He sat for questions from MOMS hosts Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein including kids in the audience.

Actor Patrick Gallagher is in great company with the MOMS Denise[L] and Melissa[R] at the Crosby Street Hotel's screening Room Dec 18 — Actor Patrick Gallagher is in great company with the MOMS Denise[L] and Melissa[R] at the Crosby Street Hotel’s screening Room Dec 18

“It’s all made up,” he shares of the gibberish he has made cool with kids since donning the Hun costume eight years ago. Adding his highlights of working on the film franchise includes the location shoots that has taken the Canadian to sets in New York, Washington DC and London. Although he says there are “a lot of long days and my costume is kinda hot,” he doesn’t mind it because as he tells a little tyke in the audience who asks how it feels to be in a movie,”Its very cool to be in a movie especially a movie this big.”

On returning for his third time around on the Night at the Museum. “I feel lucky to be in the movie,” he says of the role he has played alongside Ben Stiller, Ricky Gervais and the late Robin Williams since 2006. The movie is one of Williams’ final major movie roles before his death this past August.

Seeing Williams at his best in the role of Teddy Roosevelt made viewers miss him and cherish his memory and laughs that much more .

Gallagher and Williams with their stunt doubles during filming...( courtesy of Gallagher's public FB ) — Gallagher and Williams with their stunt doubles during filming…( courtesy of Gallagher’s public FB )

Gallagher does have one character with whom as he puts it, “has bodily functions that happen on my shoulder a lot.” That would be Dexter the monkey whom he adds is also ” getting a little big headed, a little diva but is amazing and amazing to watch.”

Go on out and catch the movie this holiday season. As well as pick up the previous two installments .

RATING: BY KIDS ONLY: On a scale of 1-5 Popcorn Stars for keeping kids engaged and loving the franchise. Night at the Museum: Secret of The Tomb earns 4 Popcorn Stars. Note this rating is per my 8-year old daughter Kameko.

Catch Night at the Museum at your local movie theater.

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