Debra Rich Gettleman
Writer

Hometown: Lincolnwood, IL, then Studio City, CA.

Number of years in the Valley: I came to Phoenix 10 years ago.

Spouse: Mark Gettleman, M.D., a pediatrician at Great Destinations Pediatrics in Glendale.

Children: Levi (7) and Eli (4).

Pets: None. I'd probably have a nervous breakdown if I had one more creature to care for.

When I'm not at work: I love to exercise. I spin, kick-box and climb when the weather's nice. I write creatively and act. Last fall, I wrote and starred in "The Happiest Place on Earth" at the Herberger Lunchtime Theater.

Favorite food: Chocolate &mdash especially deep, dark chocolate.

Favorite thing to do with my family: Snuggle in our big bed on the weekends.

Favorite things to do by myself: I love to spa!!! I've been to them all and could write a book on it.

Most people don't know this about me: My favorite movie is "American Dreamer" with JoBeth Williams and Tom Conti. See it! It's about dreams coming true.

What I love most about Arizona: The magnificent mountains.

How I came to Raising Arizona Kids: I submitted several freelance pieces to RAK and was thrilled to have them accepted. This only encouraged me to submit more and more. One day, when I was very pregnant with my second son, I got an e-mail from former managing editor Sandy Liberman. She asked me to call her at the office. When I did, she asked me to do the Baby Talk column and I happily accepted.

What I love most about my job: I love my blog! When we first started with them everyone told me this would be my ideal medium. Wow, they were right. Check it out and add your comments. I truly feel honored to work at RAK. I have the freedom to write about what truly matters to me. Even when my point of view goes against conventional wisdom or causes sincere controversy, I feel supported and respected by Karen and the rest of the staff. I am thrilled that so many people read what I write and, whether they agree or not, feel compelled to share their points of view in response.