Confessions of a (former) Catholic Schoolgirl

Next goal

2011-04-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm shopping around GABBY for a new publishing home, I'm concentrating on finishing the writing of KIDS OF 8 MILE HIGH. The goal is to have it done by the end of summer. Wish me luck.

The Balance

2010-10-24T12:37:00.001-07:00

Being a full-time mom and teacher, leaves me only a certain amount of time to write. Most of my writing gets done as a "football widow" on Sundays, when my husband is glued to the television. I just now had to fight to get on the laptop to work because he had to check his fantasy football scores. As if that's more important than getting KIDS OF 8 MILE HIGH finished.

My son has a friend over for a playdate and the giggling and screaming makes me smile and remember that all dreams can come true. It's never too late to believe. A child's laughter is all it takes to realize that.

What's New

2010-09-11T14:15:00.001-07:00

While waiting to hear back from an editor about GABBY, I have been back to work on KIDS OF 8 MILE HIGH. It's a story about a good kid living on the wrong side of the tracks--this "track" having to be 8 Mile Road in Detroit, Michigan. Being back to work teaching at-risk youth is going to limit the amount of time I have to write, but my goal is to have it finished by summer 2011.

Finished!

2010-06-29T21:40:00.000-07:00

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO GABBY is finally finished. It's a young adult "fish out of water" story about a public school student who is suddenly transferred to a private Catholic school when her parents die in a car accident. Now it's time to find my baby a new home.

Detroit Unplugged

2010-04-08T23:02:00.000-07:00

TIME magazine said that,"Detroit is a city on life support." Come on. Don't pull the plug on us yet. Support us. It's true we are hanging on for dear life. Our former mayor is a joke and an ex-con. Our brand new, fancy casinos are built across the street from abandoned, burned down houses. Our schools are among some of the worst in the country.

Violence, poverty, unemployment are at an all-time high. Our automakers are struggling and many of our residents are illiterate.

Help save a dying city. Detroit needs a rebirth...a renaissance. We have one last breath to take.

Let us breathe. Let us survive. Help us to thrive.

Tough city, tougher people. The city of fighters. We will resurrect once again.

Next book updates

2010-03-23T12:33:00.000-07:00

As The Gospel According to Gabby grows page by page and comes closer to being completely finished, you will hear it here first. Over 130 + pages written and on target to be completed by this summer.

Twilight?

2010-01-29T22:04:00.000-08:00

I so didn't want to jump on that Twilight bandwagon! I haven't read any of the books but caught the movie on HBO the other day. I liked it. Shhh...don't tell anyone.

Charlie Sheen's Domestic Abuse Case

2010-01-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

Calling all watchers of Sheen's show, Two and a Half Men! Now we know who is really the half a man, if a real man at all. Real men do not threaten women with violence.

It's time to boycott Sheen's televison show. Put in calls to CBS and get this show off of the air. It is supposed to be a family sit-com, well there is nothing funny about domestic violence. Charlie Sheen does not deserve this job, his lifestyle, or his beautiful children. Those poor kids. The children suffer the most when a mother does not leave a domestic abuser.

Wake up Brooke. Save your family.

Shoe shop for a great cause!

2009-10-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

Good news shoe lovers! Throughout October, which is NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH, Marshall's stores is donating $1 for every pair of shoes you buy to the National Domestic Violence hotline.

With domestic violence reports up at an alarming rate, every $1 counts! So run to Marshall's and stock up on your Maryjane flats and cute and toasty Ugg boots.

New shoes & helping a great cause? Everybody wins! Especially the victims of domestic violence!

The Only One

2009-07-22T18:26:00.000-07:00

My son is an only child. I plan on not having any more children. Many people tell me he needs a sibling. My usual response is that I can barely manage the one I have, so why would I want to have more? Being a full-time teacher and trying to keep my active four-year-old boy busy this summer with plenty of activities, has left me no time at all for myself.

Here's the thing: I am suffering from Mother's Guilt of having an Only Child. Taking care of one child is difficult enough and I can't imagine how the millions of other moms out there with two or more children find enough time in the day to do everything that they need or want to be done.

Should I do laundry or play with my son? Is it okay to relax and read a magazine for twenty minutes and let him play by himself? It's hard to make a phone call without my son clamoring for my attention. My computer time is only after he goes to bed. My days have been centered around playdates, t-ball practices and games, swim lessons, running errands, cleaning house, etc.

Why do I feel guilty if my son is not busy doing something every second of the day? How do I sneak in more Mommy time before I go completely bonkers?

How do you moms of an Only Child do it?

No Jail Time For Chris Brown!

2009-06-22T15:25:00.000-07:00

I am so irate that singer Chris Brown did NOT receive any jail time for beating his girlfriend, singer/model Rihanna. Why is it that celebrities can get away with SO MUCH in this country? I can honestly say that I am not surprised, but just saddened by this recent news that Brown skates by unpunished for his crimes by serving probation, community service, and attending domestic violence classes.
His community service needs to be at a domestic violence safehouse. The victims can give him the punishment he actually deserves. Someone to do the same thing that he did to Rihanna.

Don't make any more records, Chris. Don't buy them people. Don't go to his concerts. Please, Oprah, don't have him on your show again.

Good-bye, Chris. Find another career.

To read the entire article about Brown's plea agreement:
http://music.msn.com/music/article.aspx?news=415548&GT1=28102

School's Out!

2009-06-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

Remember that old Alice Cooper song, "School's Out"? To quote the former Motor City classic glam rocker, "School's out for summer! School's out forEVER!" Love it, love it, love it! That song was playing at the exact perfect time and at the exact perfect moment when I left the parking lot of my high school last week. "No more pencils, no more books, no more teacher's dirty looks!"

This teacher will have to learn some new dirty looks over the summer. My students rarely even bring their own pencils and books! Don't they deserve my dirty looks? You betcha.

Ah, summer---the best season of all for us living in the Rust Belt. So much to do, so little time. My son is my number one priority this summer. Have fun and play with Xander is at the top of the list. Yes, I know it's been 2 1/2 years between books! I need to finish writing THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO GABBY, my long overdue follow up to CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL.

Reality often gets in the way of our dreams but not if you let it.
Find your balance. Find your passion.
Don't lose sight of what matters the most.

Published Authors Who Use Cafemom

2009-05-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

I have been mentioned, along with CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL in the Daily Buzz of Entertainment on cafemom.com. Just a lil' recent news since there has been no recent news.

http://www.cafemom.com/dailybuzz/entertainment/5146/Published_Authors_Who_Use_CafeMom

Mom vs. Writer vs. Housekeeper

2009-04-14T22:11:00.000-07:00

So now that my one and only (and last) precious child is almost four, he demands much more Mommy time, which means much less ME time for this Mommy. As time speeds by at an eerily fast pace, any stolen minute or second that he is napping or sleeping must be used for the greater good. But how much can one really get done in an hour, hour and a half tops of toddler napping? It involves some serious choices. Hmmm...should I mop the kitchen floor that has been neglected since Christmas? Do you know what spiced eggnog does to natural hardwood in six months? It's not a pretty, or unsticky sight.
Or should I work on that novel that I started almost a year ago and never finished? Has it really been over two years since the last book was published? By the time I'm done writing this one, my son will probably be potty training his own kids.
Or...should I just take it easy, watch some Oprah, curl up with a good book (the same one I started reading at Christmas time while drinking the previously stated egg nog), or should I vent about it and thus waste what little time I have left because too much of it was thinking how to spend it, and write a new blog post?
Hmmm...

Rihanna & Chris Brown Update

2009-03-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

With the alleged beating of singer, Rihanna, by her "boyfriend" Chris Brown, I think it's time for her to step up as a spokesperson for Domestic Violence Awareness. I sure hope the marriage rumors are false and that Rihanna is not struggling with "battered woman syndrome" by hooking back up with that monster.
She is a role model for young women and needs to be seen as a survivor, not a victim, and a voice for her many young fans who are staying in abusive relationships. Any form of battery by any man, or anyone is not acceptable. By Rihanna staying with a woman beater is bringing the fight against domestic violence to a screeching halt. If a beautiful, successful, young musician continues to love and accept her significant other, what kind of message is that sending to women all over the world who are trying to claw their way out of abusive relationships?

You deserve better Rihanna. This batterer deserves to be behind bars.

If anyone needs help in a abusive relationship, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

Top 10 List of Life's Little Irritations

2009-02-03T13:40:00.000-08:00

This is a good writing exercise...come up with your own top ten and then choose one of your "irritations" to write an entire piece.

10. People busting out with their checkbooks to pay for their groceries. People still write checks?

9. Husband's dirty clothes on the floor. Umm..we do have a closet, dresser, and laundry bin.

8. My mother's 10 minute voicemail messages. Can't you just say, "Call me back," Mom?

7. The same telemarketers calling over and over and over and over....no, I still do not need to know how to lower my credit card bills.

6. Chain emails. I'm sorry but if I get bad luck for not forwarding the cartoon with "Somebunny loves you" to 10 of my friends, it's your fault for sending it to me.

5. People who eat other people's food out of the "community" refrigerator. How did my half eaten turkey sandwich taste?

4. No more casual Fridays! Why does one skank with her thong peeking out of the back of her pants ruin it for everyone?

3. Cell phone conversations in the movie theater. Rent a DVD and talk at home. By the way, you owe me $8.75 for my movie ticket.

2. People who say "who?" instead of "what" or "pardon" when not hearing and/or understanding something.

1. Two parking space hoggers. Does your Mini Cooper really need two spaces?

Advice for Wanna-be Published Authors

2009-01-02T16:23:00.000-08:00

recent article I wrote for www.shared-self-publishing.com

After three frustrating years, one promising literary agent let down, and dozens of rejection letters, I decided to go the "indie" route and self-publish my Young Adult autobiographical novel, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL.First, I researched and found a reputable POD publisher in WRITER's DIGEST magazine and sent in my complete manuscript. Being a high school English teacher by day, writer by night, I edited the book myself. I had the option with my publisher to choose a pre-formatted cover design, pay extra for a custom designed cover, or design one myself. A self-confessed control freak and what seems like decades carrying around a vision in my mind of my book cover, I, of course, had to design my own.My publisher sent me 10 author copies of my baby book and that is when the real work started. If you think writing is challenging enough, wait until you begin the long journey of marketing your book on your own. My publisher's marketing department helped with a press release form, book reviewer and book store contacts, and other various strategies to help me sell copies.Having an author website set up and networking on various social websites helped me to promote and sell many books. What teen doesn't have a MySpace page? Being a young adult author who writes mainly books for teens, I am now quite proud of the fact that I have over "700 friends" on MYSPACE. A big NY literary agent even found me on www.myspace.com/readmichellekane to propose a new book idea he was interested in having me write!My dream has always been to publish a book. Although I did not get a six figure advance and Jennifer Aniston isn't starring (yet!) in the film version of CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHHOLGIRL, I am very glad I self-published this book. I even have a charity tie-in and have been featured in local newspapers and magazines that announce the fact that I am personally donating 25% of royalties from sales of CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL to domestic violence shelters. The satisfaction comes from not only receiving my royalty checks in the mail, but by giving back to my community and knowing that I am doing SOMETHING to help the fight to end domestic abuse in the USA.

Visit Michelle Kane and Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl.

Back it Up!

2008-12-21T16:10:00.000-08:00

I have learned my lesson the hard way from a nasty new computer virus killing off all of my Word documents and jpegs.
Back it up and save everything and anything important someplace else. We all know that right? But do we remember to do it every single time we should be doing it?

I have not been saving my writings religiously to my flash drive like I should be and lost an entire chapter of my new novel. I freaked when clicking on my document saved to my hard drive and saw not my treasured, time consuming typed words, but ugly, sickening blue letters reading: FILE ERROR 22001.
Gone are my yet-to-be-published essays, articles, and book chapters. They have been replaced with white space and a file error message.

This is a freelancer's worst nightmare. This could also be a personal identity thief's wet dream.

No one has yet to crack the code on this new vicious virus. If you find a way, please pass it my way.

In the meantime I'll be searching for my lost words.

Bye-bye Black Friday

2008-11-30T12:55:00.001-08:00

With the recent killing of a 34-year-old New York man who was trampled to death while opening the doors to Black Friday shoppers, I ask you: do we really need a Black Friday? I understand it is the "official kick off" to holiday shopping, but with a senseless death caused by eager, manical shoppers has the Black Friday hype gone too far?

I just don't get how something like this could happen. This should not have happened. This was not an accident. This tragedy did not happen at a rock concert. This man was a worker at Walmart, he was not stage diving into a moshpit. He was simply doing his job, but the shoppers were not doing theirs. Fueled by saving a buck or snatching up a hot ticket item, these brainless, selfish people let a man be trampled to death so they could brag to their friends about "how they made out" with the bargains on the biggest shopping day of the year.

I get up for work everyday at 5.am. The only place I want to be is warm and snuggled safe in my bed the day after Thanksgiving. The turkey and apple pie is still catching some zzzs in my belly, so you will never find me out there at 5 a.m. in the dark, frigid chill of a retail store parking lot. It is not worth it to save a few bucks or a few hundred bucks.

Someone lost a son because of it.

Black Friday has proved its name true. A day of death. Stay home on Black Friday next year. Stores do not need to open early. It is senseless, just like the Walmart worker's death.

To read the entire story, visit:

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20081129/walmart_trampling_081129/20081129?hub=World

Obama is the Man!

2008-11-05T14:31:00.000-08:00

Now that our country has made history with its first African-American President, our first female President can't be too far behind! It doesn't matter if she's white, black, Asian, Hispanic, or anything in between--there is hope that maybe someday, someday in every American's future, a female can make it to the top as President of the United States.

Would a man vote for a female as President? No one thought whites would vote for a black President, but plenty did.

So little girls everywhere--rejoice! Put those Barbies down and grab your Hillary Clinton bobblehead! Dream big, work hard, and you too can achieve anything.

God bless America!

Domestic Violence in the National Spotlight: Jennifer Hudson

2008-11-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

The Jennifer Hudson family tragedy should not have happened. But now with Domestic Abuse in the national spotlight, our country needs to take drastic measures to prevent any more unnecessary violence caused by domestic abuse from happening again. William Balfour is a CHILD KILLER. This monster with a violent past should not have even been free on the streets.

How can women prevent domestic violence from happening to their family? Like sex offenders, or child predators, domestic abusers often strike again and again. Their rage is a sick hunger eager to disease and hurt those that trust them or even love them. The first step to prevent a sex offender or domestic abuser from entering into your life is to KNOW THEIR PAST.

Like our National Sex Offender data base, I stumbled upon, www.theweakervessel.org, which is the FIRST National data base for convicted domestic abusers. I know that I would want to be aware of any man I was going to date, or even living in my neighborhood had been convicted of a violent crime. These criminals need to be REQUIRED through a court order to register on this site. It looks relatively new and the site owner is asking for help. To volunteer or donate, please visit www.theweakervessel.org.

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO GABBY

2008-10-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

enjoy a sneak peek at the first chapter of my next young adult novel

There is no way I am ever going to wear that.
That thing. That hideously plaited monstrosity disguised as a girl’s skirt.
That, that…
uniform.

This is the only thing that goes through my mind as I sit across the desk from Principal Sister Mary Rosa in her office on my first day of school at Our Lady of Perpetual Sorrow Catholic High School.
“What’s the matter, dear?” Sister asks, pushing the questionable fashion item into my folded arms. “I think this size medium will do you just fine.”
“No, it won’t do me just fine. It’s so, so…plaid. And gray. I don’t do dress codes, especially unflattering private school uniforms. I won’t wear it. You can’t make me wear it,” I say, tossing the uniform skirt on her desk and placing the heel of my boot on top of it. I slump back in my chair, with my feet resting quite comfortably on her desk.
“Do not disrespect me, my property, or the rules of this school young lady,” Sister says, swatting at my black Doc Martens until they drop to the ground.
Her stern face softens a bit as she places the uniform on my lap. “Miss Grabowski, I know things have been quite traumatic for you lately. You lost your parents almost a year ago, moved to a new city and I can’t even begin to imagine how difficult that must be on a young girl.” Sister Mary Rosa shakes her head and clasps her hands in prayer, as if she feels my pain. “And now your uncle tells me you were not adjusting well to that public school you were in last semester.”
Sister Mary Rosa nearly vomits out the words public school, as if the taste of those words on her tongue would actually make her blow chunks.
“You mean, that public school where all my friends go?”
“You will make new friends, dear. Your uncle cares about you and wants to see you get a proper education. Here at Our Lady of Perpetual Sorrow we offer a well-rounded curriculum of history, literature, mathematics, and religion classes. You will also engage in many extracurricular clubs and activities with other like-minded young adults of the same faith.”
“Faith?”
“Yes, Miss Grabowski. Your religion, Catholicism. Your Uncle Mark informed me that your parents had you baptized as well as confirmed. You are up-to-date on your Holy Sacraments. You are one of God’s children.”

“God? You mean the same God who killed my parents by some lunatic drunk driver?” My cold gaze is matched by her stern, narrow eyes.
“We all know God works in mysterious ways, no matter how unpleasant or painful it can be, everything is part of His plan.” Sister pauses and reaches over to clasp my hands in her own. My smooth, young, tan hands are now tangled in between wrinkled, white, cold hands. “That drunk driver foolishly claimed your parent’s lives, not God. “Let go of your anger and let God in. To forgive is divine.”
“Yeah, whatever.” I gingerly bite a loose hangnail on the side of my thumb that’s driving me nuts.
“No, not whatever. Praying once a week in our mandatory Wednesday service should help to bring about a positive attitude, and a positive attitude along with prayer will enable you to endure these changes and struggles you face.”
This old woman not only resembles one of those shrunken head dolls, but now she talks as if she’s reading scriptures directly out of the Bible. “What mandatory Wednesday service?” I demand some answers to all Sister’s crazy talk.
“The mandatory school Mass for the entire student body we have here at Our Lady of Perpetual Sorrow. Every Wednesday, instead of attending Religious Studies classes, students meet in the school’s field house for Mass. Students love it. It gives us all such an uplift in spirituality that we all need by mid-week,” she explains.
I cross then uncross my legs. “Let me get this straight, Sister. All students meet in the sweaty gym on Hump Day to pray?”

Sister Mary Rosa frowns. “See, dear, it’s that kind of bad attitude and negative thinking that needs to be changed around. I know there’s a positive, sweet girl inside of
that tough shell, and she will come out with the more time and effort you put into your new Catholic education. It’s such a blessing for you to be here and thank the good Lord that you attended public high school for only your freshman year. By the grace of God, you have been blessed with a brand new fresh start.”
Her sweetness is making me angry. “Look, Sister Mary Rosa, no disrespect, but you know nothing about me. I’m not Catholic schoolgirl material. My parents never even took me to church. We were Chriseasters. Isn’t that what you call them? The sinners who don’t keep holy the Sabbath day, but only go to church on holidays?” I don’t wait for her to answer, but continue. “The only reason I’m at this stupid school is because I flunked Algebra and Uncle Mark, being the number crunching crazy accountant that he is, flipped out about it and said that my parents would have never allowed this to happen if they were still alive, and how he’s not living up to his only brother’s legacy, and blah, blah, blah. Because of one bad grade in one dumb class and now I get thrown into this…this…” I stumble for the right words, “hell hole.”
Sister Mary Rosa gasps, gets all bug-eyed and acts as if I just slapped her across the face. “This is a loving and caring, God-fearing environment, Miss Grabowski. You are very lucky your aunt and uncle love you so unconditionally,” Sister replies with a smirk. “As far as I see it, they brought you just in the nick of time, before you travel further down that dark path you are on, and further away from God.”
I roll my eyes. Whatever.

“Well now, I think that is settled,” Sister states gleefully, no doubt because she got the last word. “Take this uniform skirt and make sure you where it tomorrow with a crisp, clean, white buttoned collared blouse. You may wear only a gray, navy, or red
cardigan over it, if you so choose. Your socks need to be knee-high length, and in white or ivory only. Your shoes must be brown or black penny loafers or lace-up oxfords. Any questions, Miss Grabowski?”
I want to ask her what a penny loafer was, but decide against it, seeing as she already sees me as a big smart-ass already. I extend my leg into the air instead, holding up my right foot. “Are these okay?” I ask, displaying my worn-out, faded, ultra-comfy favorite footwear on the planet.
“No, Miss Grabowski, they are not. You may only wear those type of combat style boots in snowy, wintery weather on your way to school, and then upon reaching your locker, must remove the boots, replacing them with penny loafers or oxfords. Mary Janes would be acceptable as well. Absolutely no high heels, open toe sandals, or thongs.”
“Thongs?” It’s bad enough Sister is policing my style of dress, now she’s controlling what kind of panties I wear under this uniform? For God sakes, what kind of prison did Uncle Mark put me in?
Sister laughs and reveals large, frightening teeth. She lightly taps her forehead. “Silly me, I forgot you young people refer to them as flip-flops nowadays. Those are only appropriate to wear if you are coming and going to the gymnasium swimming pool.” She picks up a paper print-out off of her desk and quickly scans it. “No thongs, I mean flip-flops for you, Miss Grabowski. This is your first semester schedule and you are not enrolled in any physical education courses,” she says, handing me my course list.
My flippant response was interrupted because there is a knock at Sister’s office door.
“Excuse me, Sister Mary Rosa, I don’t mean to interrupt,” a voice begins through the cracked door, “but the first period bell is going to ring in a few minutes.”
“Oh, oh, Mr. Truman,” Sister is grinning ear to ear now, “come on in.”
The door opens and a boy about my age walks in. Or maybe it’s an angel. He’s a perfect vision in navy blue pants, white collared shirt, and black oxfords. His hair is dark and wavy, like a younger, hotter John Mayer. Of course, his body is a wonderland.
“Is this the new student I get the pleasure of showing around our wonderful school today?” the angel asks, his dark eyes twinkling like midnight stars.
“Mr. Bennett Michael Matthew Truman, meet Miss Gabrielle Grabowski,” I barely hear Sister say.
“Hello, so nice to meet you Gabrielle,” Bennett says, extending his hand towards mine.
I catch my breath and grasp his hand. “Huh, huh, hi,” I stammer like a big dope.
“Mr. Truman is in your first period class and he will be showing you where your locker is and will basically be your Tour Guide of Our Lady of Perpetual Sorrow all day today, Miss Grabowski. I’m sure you will show him the same respect and kindness you showed me,” Sister says, raising an eyebrow.

I could actually be wrong about this place. Maybe it’s just like heaven.

National Domestic Violence Month

2008-10-02T15:31:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to remind everyone that October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Please consider donating or volunteering at one of your local domestic violence shelters. Women and their children need your help. You could save a life.

The Pastor's Ass

2008-09-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

The pastor entered his donkey in a race and It won. The pastor was so pleased with the donkey That he entered it in theRace Again, and it won again. The local paper read: PASTOR'S ASS OUT FRONT. The Bishop was so upset with this kind of Publicity that he ordered The Pastor not to enter the donkey in another race. The next day, the local paper headline Read:
BISHOP SCRATCHES PASTOR'S ASS.
This was too much for the bishop, so he Ordered the pastor to get Rid Of the donkey.The pastor decided to give it to a nun in a Nearby convent.The local paper, hearing of the news, posted The following headlineThe Next day:
NUN HAS BEST ASS IN TOWN.
The bishop fainted.He informed the nun that she would have to Get rid of the donkey, so She Sold it to a farmer for $10.
The next day the paper read:
NUN SELLS ASS FOR $10.
This was too much for the bishop, so he Ordered the nun to buy back The Donkey and lead it to the plains where it could run Wild. The next day the headlines read:

NUN ANNOUNCES HER ASS IS WILD AND FREE.
The bishop was buried the next day.

The moral of the story is . . . Being Concerned about public opinion Can Bring you much grief and misery . . Even shorten your Life. So be yourself and enjoy life. Stop worrying about everyone else's ass and You'll be a lot happier And Live longer!

thanks to my cafemom friend for this one...funny words of wisdom!

Oprah's Book Club

2008-09-21T14:25:00.000-07:00

Wow! Can you believe I have not blogged in over an entire month? If you read my last entry you know why. Going back to work teaching full-time and mommying a toddler full time barely gives me any writing time! It's either sleep or write and you know how much this gal loves catching her some serious zzzzz's. But I promise to post a preview chapter of The Gospel According to Gabby super soon.

What I do want to gripe about today, displaying not the least amount of jealousy of course (did you notice the color of this text?) is how damn lucky that David Wroblewski is. If you are not familiar with this Polish fellow, his debut novel, The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, is Oprah's latest Book Club pick. What a lucky s.o.b. that guy is. You know everything Oprah touches or even farts on turns to gold, right?

If Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl was an Oprah Book Club pick, can you imagine how much money I would be able to give to domestic violence non-profits? So many beds, toiletries, toys, food, and counseling could then be available to all the battered moms out there that have no place to go. A teen novel may not be Oprah's cup of tea, or one of her "favorite things" but what she does love to do is help others. And Oprah if you're out there, remember this writer/mom/teacher is personally donating 25% of profits from my book to help end domestic violence in the U.S. Won't you please help a sister out?

The 3 Hardest Jobs in the World

2008-08-20T09:56:00.000-07:00

What are the three hardest jobs in the world? Can you guess? No? Then I will tell you, because they are the three jobs that I currently have.

1. Mother
2. Teacher
3. Writer

Yes, I will be blogging about these jobs today. If you've noticed my tagline, my 4th "hat" that I wear is Dreamer. We all know dreaming is easy.

Mother. It's a full time job, whether you work outside or inside the home. I only have one kid and it's not always easy, especially when he is only three; wanting independence, craving a nap, or throwing a tantrum. Today after a long day at the subdivision swimming pool, Xander decided he needed to poop in every stall in the women's bathroom. After much pushing and sighing, he managed to drop about one kid off at each of the four "pools" before accepting help getting dressed. He's FINALLY mastered the potty training and not pooping in his pants anymore, so who I am to judge this bizarre bowel movement ritual? Twenty minutes later, emerging dry and completely dressed from head to toe, he escapes and runs back into the swimming pool. Very exasperating.
I drag him out out the pool, redirect him to the car and in a tiny voice, he said, "I'm sorry."

Motherhood. The most challenging and rewarding job in the world. HIP HIP HOORAY TO ALL THE MOMS.

Teacher. Yet, another extremely challenging job, yet rewarding as well. I think my job teaching at-risk urban teenagers is especially challenging, with the rewards not always immediate. I look around at the feel-good slogans surrounding my home office and classroom on the many plaques, photo albums, knick-knacks, etc. that I receive. "Teaching is a work of heart" and "Teachers make a difference." There's also one that proudly states "Teachers preserve the past, reveal the present and create the future." WOW! Do we really do all that? I know I try to do that in my classroom, but are my students trying to LEARN what I TEACH them?
"Teachers do it with class!" Hmm??? According to all the recent reports about female teachers on CNN lately, this one should be removed from all t-shirts and mugs immediately! :)

A BIG SHOUT OUT TO THE MOST UNDERPAID PROFESSIONALS IN THE WORLD!

Writer. The final role that I play in life. Challenging when the words don't flow as easily as they should and the sales don't grow as quick as they could. I read once that writers don't write because they like to, they write because they HAVE to. This is something my husband doesn't understand when I vent to him about struggling with the writing of my next book. I can't just take a break on writing, like he suggests. I've had paid writing gigs and unpaid gigs, the rewards come with the CREATION of a finished piece and my BYLINE on it. Who wouldn't want to be the next J.K. Rowling? In the meantime, writing this blog has made me discover that my 3 jobs
are all linked together. 1 mother + 1 teacher + 1 writer= CREATOR.

I have CREATED a beautiful, healthy son, I try to CREATE students into future leaders, and now I have to work on CREATING my next novel. Till next time, see you in my dreams.

Pedophile Priests

2008-08-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

I am a Catholic school survivor. I am also a child of a domestic violence survivor.
Thank God I never had to survive being abused by a pedophile priest.

According to the organization "Bishop Accountability" more than 4,000 priests, out of the 42,000 in the United States, were accused of abusing scores of children.

How does this happen? How can such a trusted person who devotes his life to serving God sexually abuse a child? Priests who thought they got away with it years ago are now serving time in jail and the Catholic Church is paying out millions to the victims and their families. It's about time. Now it's time to take care of the future. Our children are the future. How do we prevent Catholic children from suffering abuse by priests now and in the future?

How do survivors of pedophile priests move on and have normal, healthy lives and relationships? How do they FORGIVE? How do they LOVE?
Pedophile priests MURDER childhoods.

Should priests be allowed to marry an individual other than God?
Should we never trust a priest to be alone with our child?
Should we turn away from the Catholic Church?
Should we just forget about it and pretend these things don't happen?
What do you guys think?

www.michellekane.com

KWAME KILPATRICK: THUG 4 LIFE-DETROIT MAYOR

2008-08-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

It's bad enough people who don't live in Detroit or have never visited Detroit think terrible things about the city, our bad rep has made a turn for the worse with the mayor of Detroit spending the night in the slammer. Kwame Kilpatrick will go down in history, not as a great leader, but as the first seated mayor in the entire country to spend time in jail.

Laughable because Kwame had it coming to him, but sad for the city of Detroit to have such an embarrassment posing as a leader who was "changing the city around for the better." Kwame is the biggest THUG in a city known for THUGS. Detroit Public Schools are failing, the auto companies are struggling, the neighborhoods are crumbling and now our mayor, who "allegedly cheated on his wife" with his Chief of Staff and lied on the stand in a whistle blower lawsuit, is finally behind bars.

Kwame has to go. What do you guys think?

THIS is The Last Lecture--Randy Pausch's contradictions

2008-08-05T22:13:00.000-07:00

It is not about achieving your dreams but living your life. If you lead your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself. The dreams will come to you.

I thought this quote from the late Randy Pausch tied in nicely from one of my earlier posts questioning if chasing dreams was just a waste of time. I totally agree with this quote and strive each day to live it out loud. I am, of course, still waiting for the good karma to come. Patience. Faith. BELIEVE. I think I'm leading my life the right way, are YOU?

Never underestimate the importance of having fun. I’m dying and I’m having fun. And I’m going to keep having fun every day because there’s no other way to play it.

This quote reminds me to live in the moment and not just for a wish or hope. Sometimes sadness and frustration kill you just a little more each day and you have to be remember to count your blessings, and have FUN because you never know if tomorrow will come.

Brick walls are there for a reason. They are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. The brick walls are there to stop people who don’t want it badly enough.

I have a love/hate relationship with this quote. Does it contradict with number one above? Is my brick wall stopping the good karma from flowing into my life? Staying up late reading, watching TV, blogging, or shopping online could possibly be brick walls that I built myself? Instead of finishing my next book and spending time doing some actual WRITING, please re-read quote number 2 again.

KID ROCK ROCKS DETROIT

2008-07-28T14:28:00.000-07:00

Here's a little review for all of you that missed Kid Rock's sold-out hometown performances. For those of you who have not seen this latest tour, you need to RUN to the closest city and go to this concert. I was lucky enough to score V.IP. tix to the SO HOTTEST show this summer.

Uncle Cracker warmed up the crowd with his radio friendly hits until KID finally took the stage to much anticipation and excitement from the crowd. If you are into people watching, KID has a such a melting pot of fans, besides the great performance on stage there is much to look at in the audience. From young to old, rednecks to yuppies everyone enjoyed the show. At one point KID even told the crowd that he loves how all of us are different, but that we all share a common bond of coming out to hear some great f*ckin music. KID then instructed all of us to HIGH FIVE the fans around us. I definitely was feeling not only the 85 degree heat dancing outside on a balmy, Michigan night, but I was feeling the LOVE.

Halfway through the show RUN from the legendary rap group RUN DMC joined KID on stage to jam out together beloved classics like, WALK THIS WAY, IT's TRICKY, IT'S LIKE THAT and many others. The crowd was loving it and RUN thanked us and KID for bringing him out of retirement. KID ROCK proved that once again he can rap, sing country, rock out to a medley of AC/DC and Ted Nugent and slow things down with PICTURE without missing a beat.

My favorite part of the night was singing along with the crowd to AMEN and ALL SUMMER LONG. At just over a little two hours, my money was well spent and not only did I witness a great performance from KID ROCK and one of the best concerts I've ever been too, (sorry CREED, LOLLAPALOOZA, and PEARL JAM) but I had the time of my life.

DON'T miss KID ROCK in concert. You'll be singing SWEET HOME ALABAMA all summer long!

www.michellekane.com

FREE BOOK CHAPTER: KIDS OF 8 MILE HIGH

2008-07-15T22:55:00.000-07:00

AS PROMISED, HERE IS THE FIRST CHAPTER OF MY NEW YOUNG ADULT NOVEL:

Forward

Strutting down the hallway in baggy blue jeans, some frayed and worn strands at the bottom of the legs drag onto the floor, picking up the dust and debris at the end of a long school day. Tiny bits of loose-leaf paper and miniscule dust bunnies cling to the denim for dear down the sides of legs, badly concealed by an XXL t-shirt.
They walk through the halls, not making eye contact. You know they see you, and you know why they don’t acknowledge your presence. I did the same thing in high school, didn’t I? You ask yourself, remembering that the teacher was the enemy…and now you are the enemy.

1

DeShaun Johnson saunters past the boarded up houses, some half-burnt to the ground, and checks out the overgrown weeds and uncut grass on the front lawns of his Detroit neighborhood. He shakes his head at the broken, jagged glass of what used to be someone’s window, but now serves as the front door to a dope dealer or heroin addict who has made this their new squatting quarters. Overstuffed and torn black trash bags, stained mattresses with rusty, protruding springs, broken lamps, old toys, and other litter line the front curbs and crumbling sidewalks of his forgotten, neglected city.
His old Detroit high school was forgotten as well, but DeShaun still can’t erase it from his mind. The metal detectors, armed police officers, daily fights and gang activity consumed most of the time that was supposed to be in place for learning. One time, his cousin’s best boy pulled a blade on their math teacher for giving him a D- on a pop quiz. “Change it to an A, or I’ll slice your motherfuckin’ cracker throat.” DeShaun recalls the boy’s exact words to their teacher that day because he was trying to solve an equation with a dull No.2 pencil, but with all his classmates standing on top of their desks cheering and laughing it was kind of difficult getting any classwork done. It was a Monday. “Murder Mondays” as they were known around the school, because something violent always happened on a Monday. That’s just the way it was. An old school tradition or something.
DeShaun hopes his new school will have toilet paper and running water in the restrooms, because his old school rarely did. It was typical of everyone’s mama to buy paper, pencils, pens, glue, notebooks, and toilet paper at the dollar store when shopping for school supplies in the fall. But not this fall, at least not for DeShaun. “Baby, I is not gonna buy toiletries for you to take to school this year. And I fo’sho ain’t gonna let you go to school that is run by gangs,” Juanita Johnson had told her son, DeShaun, when she decided that the city schools were not good enough anymore for her eldest, and brightest son. With DeShaun’s daddy in prison, and five kids to take care of on her own, Juanita could not afford some fancy private school. But luckily, her co-worker at the convenience store in the suburbs has an apartment in North Pointe and said the Johnsons can use her address as proof of residency so that DeShaun could attend North Pointe High School.
As DeShaun walks north to 8 Mile Road, he passes liquor stores with check cashing services, along with cell phone and designer handbags sales. WE TAKE FOOD STAMPS signs hang in the filthy windows of these markets and pawn shops. He strolls past the coney islands, Baptist churches, barber shops, auto body shops, jazz clubs, adult video stores, and skinny, stray dogs running in the streets. Homeless men, with their eyes half closed lean against graffiti labeled, closed businesses, and homeless women push their stolen grocery carts full of recyclable plastic bottles down the empty sidewalks. Ten cents earned for each plastic bottle or aluminum can adds up to buy a couple of cheeseburgers or bottles of cheap wine. DeShaun turns his head and his gaze falls to his shoes. Can’t let them see the sadness in your eyes because their own eyes will grow more sad. Can’t fit any more sadness in the eyes of the lost and forgotten.
As Deshaun steps across the busy, one-way four lane traffic of 8 Mile Road to make the next half mile of his walk to his new school, he pauses at the car wash on the corner. It’s on the left hand, north side of 8 Mile Road—just barely out of Detroit city limits. “Wash your car clean of city dirt and grime before you enter our polished suburbs,” is probably their unwritten motto, DeShaun can’t help but wonder. He knows the car wash is there for a good reason.
Stepping out of the city and into its closest suburb, DeShaun notices the immediate differences. Moving on up the suburb’s tree lines sidewalks, DeShaun admires the flower filled medians with their advertised signs. “Mom-to-Mom sale—September 12. St. Rene’s Catholic Chuch.” And “Talent Show—try-out now North Pointers. North Pointe High School.” He admires the gleaming, shining cars of the used car lots, and reads the help wanted signs in the windows of the oil change and auto supplies stores. There’s a frozen custard stand and a family style Italian restaurant. Coffee shops, strip malls and outdoor café`s with little black wrought iron chairs and pretty red umbrellas at the tables. Men in business suits and women in high heels sit at these little tables sipping cappucinos and lattes, nibbling on chocolate biscotti and lemon scones. White men with blue collared shirts, long hair, and mustaches smoke cigarettes in their pick-up trucks, waiting for co-workers to meet them before their shift starts at one of the many collision shops in town.
DeShaun steers his new sneakers to the left and follows his feet down a residential, side street to where his new school is located. Well manicured, green lawns with flat hedges and flower beds with big plastic deer lounging in them frame tiny, neat looking all brick bungalow homes. Some of the houses have white awnings over the doorways, and most of them have chain link fences with gates in the driveways. The houses are almost identical and sit in perfect straight lines. Halloween decorations of witches and jack-o-lanterns linger on front porches. Welcome mats and flowered wreaths adorn the front doors. Large SUVs and mini-vans are parked in the driveways. DeShaun has only walked one mile from his house, but has already arrived in another world. He bites down hard on his lower lip to try to stop it from quivering and wonders what his new classmates will be like, and if he’s wearing the right shoes. The shoes are popular at his old school and everyone has them. Somehow DeShaun knows this new school will be different.
DeShaun stops to look up at the worn, brick building with paper bears and pumpkins taped to its classroom windows. Even the colorful construction paper artwork can’t camouflage the fact that this public learning institution resembles an ancient automobile factory. “Welcome Back Students!” is lettered on a large sign above the front entrance. A burning flames his cheeks as he realizes that he is not welcome. He is not “back” because he has never been before. He’s a brand new student with brand new Jordans who shouldn’t be going to school there. What if somebody finds out? DeShaun climbs the large concrete steps with a warm wave of dread flooding over him. He’s early. Where are all the students? Shiny, newly waxed floors squeak under his new sneakers and he notices the smell. The undeniable smell of the first day of school. Doesn’t matter what school it is, or where it is. The smell is the same. DeShaun first noticed the first-day-of-school smell upon entering Kindergarten. The smell hasn’t changed over his years in junior high and now high school. He couldn’t help thinking that his old high school and this school probably will only have the smell in common and nothing else.
A plump looking girl with tight jeans, pretty blonde hair and a face to match was the only other person in the empty hallway outside the main office. She stood under a “Go Grizzlies” banner staring at a bulletin board in front of her. DeShaun looks down at her feet to see what kind of shoes she’s wearing. He smiles. They’re Jordans. Like his, but girly. White and pink and tiny, with pen scribbles of boy’s names and little hearts drawn all over them.
“Hi,” the girl says, as DeShaun approaches. “I could hear you squeaking a mile away.”
DeShaun laughs. “Whattup? My name’s DeShaun.”
“I’m Melissa. Everyone calls me Missy, though. You must be new here. Are you a freshman?”
“Naw, girl, I ain’t no freshman. Do I look like some freshman punk to you?” DeShaun cocks his head to one side and raises both arms up in the air, taking a step back so Missy could get a good full look at him. All fifteen and a half years of his gown-ass manliness.
“I dunno. I just don’t remember you going here last year. If you did, I’d remember you for sure.”
“Why’s that? Because I’m so fine?” DeShaun asks, pulling on his chin as if he were stroking a beard.
“No, because you’re black. There’s only like a handful of black kids that go here.”
“For real? What is everyone racist around here or somethin’”?
“Well, if you want to know the truth, yes,” Missy says, nodding her head.
DeShaun’s nostrils flair and he steps closer to Missy so that his face is almost touching hers. He looks down from the top of her head and into turquoise colored eyes. “So you scared of us niggas too, white girl?”
Missy smiles. “You’re not a nigga. And you shouldn’t use that would. Actually, I know I shouldn’t be using it either, but since you all use it to talk to each other, I guess I can just say it this once. But don’t make me say it again, and don’t say it to me again either. It’s a bad word. A hurtful word.”
“What’s with you girl? You trippin’?”
“Naw. I’m just tired of all the black kids calling each other the ‘N’ word in the halls, and of course, it would be offensive if a white kid used that word to a black kid. But I think fair is fair and no one should use it. It should just be turned off, like our cell phones are supposed to be in school,” Missy says, pointing down to DeShaun’s ringing cell phone on his hip.
“Hey, mama. Yeah, I’m here. No, class hasn’t started yet. No, I haven’t found my locker yet. No, no textbooks yet. Mama! I’ve only been here like five minutes! Yeah, I got my schedule.” DeShaun smirks and looks at Missy. “Yeah, I’ve already made a new friend. Bye mama.” DeShaun turns off his cell phone and puts it in his jeans pocket.
Missy smiles. “Come on. Let me show you around your new school.”

Chasing Dreams & Having Goals is a Waste of Time?

2008-07-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I am writing two young adult novels simultaneously right now (kind of.) Just to give you an update, I am done with the first chapter of THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO GABBY and I know, what happened to KIDS OF 8 MILE HIGH? Well, I am still working on that project, although it has become somewhat of a "backburner book" for now. The good news is a FREE sample chapter will be available soon. Maybe I'll post it here.
When I am not being a suburban wife, teacher, mother, cook, housekeeper, boo boo kisser, chauffeur, etc. (or should I say WHILE) I am writing: personal essays, blogs, book chapters, and in my son's journal that I keep for him.

When I CREATE, even if it's not that SUCCESSFUL, I feel more ACCOMPLISHED. As if my I am one step closer to seeing my dreams and goals become real and possible. I have HOPE.

So here's the thing: I was really frustrated the other day from a mad mess of writer's block and expressed my feelings to my husband, whose response was, "You can't expect to accomplish a goal or conquer a dream to make you happy."

Wait a minute. What?

I told him that it was important for us to teach our son that he should follow his dreams and that he can accomplish any of his goals with hard work and determination.

My husband said, "Yeah, but you can't expect dreams and goals to make you happy."

I know. Total Mars and Venus, right? Some people are simple---work your 9-5, come home, open a beer, watch sports, spend time with your family, etc. That makes them happy. I am happy and grateful for all that I have. But others are always striving for more, it doesn't mean they are not happy with their typical, American suburban lives, but a dream coming true is a dream come true.

What do you make of this? Do WE need MORE? Will you not be HAPPY until your DREAM comes true? DO you still have a DREAM?

Door-to-Door Annoyance

2008-07-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

I had just put my 3-year-old down for a much needed nap, when our dog went berserk barking and growling at the front door. This is the 3rd time this week solicitors have come to my door. First, it was the magazine guy while scrambling to get out of the house, then there was the coupon book girl during dinner, and now a Health Care bill petitioner asking me questions, pleading for my signature---during NAP TIME.

Nap time is not only needed for a cranky toddler, but it is also a necessity for a tired mother. But with always a million things to do and get done, instead of using that time to relax...read a book or watch some television, I need to clean or do laundry, start dinner, get some writing done, check email, etc.

So no, there is NOT a good time to come back later or call back later. Why do they always ask this? If I need to purchase something I will go out and buy it, thank you. I will not buy it at my front door during NAP TIME, or dinner time, or any other time.

Now get off my property! Please tell me I am not the only homeowner annoyed by this summer explosion solicitation.

Time Capsule

2008-06-25T23:08:00.000-07:00

I cocooned myself today into the latest trend of finding that ever elusive fountain of youth: The Time Capsule. Yes, that is the actual name. The Time Capsule.
NASA research has been done and L.E.D. light therapy is supposed to take years off your face and body, transporting you back into a much more younger version of your previous self---well, as far as your skin is concerned.
This is how it works: you lie down in a bed, very similar to tanning bed, close your eyes, and wait for the fine lines, sun damage, brown spots to disappear and the baby butt smooth skin to reappear. It's painless. After only one session, I can't really see a difference. Although, the seventeen-year-old working at the salon reminded me that someone younger such as himself, would have quicker results than someone my age.
I paid for The Time Capsule on my credit card, forgetting to thank the teen for pointing out that I'm old enough to be his mother and went to check out a mirror.
Wrinkle creams don't work. It's cheaper than a facelift. Maybe this is it! Have I found the fountain of youth in a Time Capsule?
I still have four more sessions to go in The Time Capsule, so the next time I write, it could be from the point of view of a twentysomething, not a thirtysomething. ;)

Writer's Guilt

2008-06-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well...I feel v. guilty about not keeping up with my blog lately. Being a busy working mom with a three-year-old takes up most of my time---er...life. Now that school is finally out for this exhausted high school teacher...I can concentrate on having fun with my son, writing, more fun, writing, fun, more writing....and so on and so on. Not to mention watching the new season of WEEDS--which is so awesome if you haven't watched it---you MUST.
My first priority is Xander, of course. Now that he doesn't nap much, but likes to spend his time running around the house, playing outside, swimming, reading, and pooping on his tiny potty chair, the only time I really have to write is at night.
So if it takes me forever to get the next book out, you know why. But it will be out. Check back often for more updates on the book or just to read the latest blog on how I'm spending my summer: whether it's playing with Xander, going to a local festival around the metro Detroit area, traveling with my husband, catching the latest rom-com, my thoughts on entertainment, parenting, etc.
I'll be here---but only for the graveyard shift.

May Flowers

2008-05-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

I was wondering the other day in my classroom while teaching bored 11th graders how to write a proper thesis statement...who actually said,"April showers bring May flowers?" Someone actually said that?! Now I don't have to google the answer:) While reading Kevin Alexander's entertaining blog---he read my mind and said that it was John Quincy Adams. Hmmm..even teachers learn something new everyday.
I have to share a secret with you! No one else knows this besides my husband who barely managed to mumble a "Hmmm...that's good..." while absorbed in Sportscenter when I excitedly exclaimed,"I've been DISCOVERED on MYSPACE! Apparently, a BIG NYC literary agent noticed my novel CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL on www.myspace.com/readmichellekane and told me to call him! So after a 30 MINUTE conversation on what he wants....I have sunk myself into reading all the modern young adult novels I can get my shaky (too many skinny lattes) hands on. A book proposal and synopsis to be completed over summer break. (Have fun with your new TEACHER over summer in my HOT classroom with NO A/C---whoever fails my class!)

A Jesus Sighting?

2008-04-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

So the Pope was in recently for a visit, and also the Dali Lama was in (Ann Arbor) over the weekend. Hmm....who once said everything happens in threes? Will Jesus himself show his image soon?
Maybe it will just be Jim Morrison...again. Or Elvis. Again. Or the Virgin Mary on a grilled cheese sandwich.
One more is coming to America. Haven't you heard?

Which spiritual leader would you all like to see? Do you have a spiritual leader/savior?

The New 7 Deadly Sins

2008-03-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

Leave it to the Catholic Church to tell us all how to live. The holier-than-thou religion has condemned us evil-doers who throw away those plastic water bottles, move to the suburbs, and practice safe sex. Have you seen this new list of the 7 Deadly Sins? If not, here it is:

1. "Bioethical" violations such as birth control
2. "Morally dubious'' experiments such as stem cell research
3. Drug abuse
4. Polluting the environment
5. Contributing to widening divide between rich and poor
6. Excessive wealth
7. Creating poverty
Source: Bloomberg

I bet about 90% of Americans are guilty of these new "deadly" sins. Be prepared to fry in hell if you don't go to Confession and repent!

I would like to add my own list of 7 Deadly Sins:
1. Child molesting
2. Domestic Violence
3. Hypocrisy
4. Dishonesty
5. Illiteracy
6. Ignorance
7. Spamming

Did I forget anything?

Feng Shui Update

2008-03-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

It worked! It worked! Well...so far. Maybe. I told you I would give you all an update on the Feng Shui experiment. Even though I wrote the mantra, "Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me," nine times in red ink for only four days, instead of nine days like I was supposed to...I think my luck has actually started to change already.

Here's the good news and kharmic surprise: A literary agent from NYC called me and is looking for young adult novels about Catholic schoolgirls. Who better to try and write one then this Catholic school survivor herself? My book CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL is already published and a bit too "black comedy" for what the NY editors are looking for. But what a great opportunity to fall in my lap! Can I come up with a hot GOSSIP GIRLS type YA novel set in a Catholic school? Or will I block under such creative pressure? Stay tuned.
As I just wrote another donation check to a domestic violence shelter with the royalties of my book sales...I now live and breathe the reality that the more you give the more you get in return.

2008-02-24T14:19:00.000-08:00

My website www.michellekane.com is finally back up! Just an FYI if anyone is looking for a web designer/host do not use the company Boston Dedicated. The owner is a shady con artist who tried to extort money from me and shut down my site because I didn't pay him an exorbitant amount of $$$ to buy my domain name from him...my own name!
After many frustrating months and not paying one cent to an extortionist, I now own my domain name and my site is back up! yay me! Maybe nice guys don't always have to finish last...
Thanks for all the support friends. Check me out:
www.michellekane.com
Got LIT? Read the new book, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL

Feng Shui Mantra

2008-02-18T08:27:00.000-08:00

For nine days beginning on my birthday, I have to write this mantra in red ink nine times a day to hopefully make "it" happen. As today is my birthday, here goes my very first Feng Shui experience, or maybe it's more of an experiment. I'll let you know if it works.

"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."
"Everything I have been looking for now comes looking for me."

The Age of Aquarius

2008-02-03T12:51:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite horoscopes for Aquarius, my sign:

"A bit of obsessive-compulsive behavior is not necessarily a bad thing. All talented people have a touch of it."

My Space Book Review

2008-01-27T12:07:00.000-08:00

in case you missed it friends...

Poised at the Edge Book Review
Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl.
Michelle Kane

Valerie Bernowski's story begins in the mid-80's. Life is not easy; money's tight, her father rarely shows his face, and her hyper-religious, beleaguered mother is not emotionally available. Where can she turn? She certainly cannot trust sadistic Sister Mary Angelina, or pervy Father "Fingers."
She begins to rebel against the Catholic Church, her soon to be divorced parents, and just about everything else. The world unfolding before her is world of cyclical abuse. Her mother married a man, who berated, hit, and raped her, just like her mother had before her.
The more Valerie learns about her family, the more she comes to realize that emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, have been long-accepted family traditions. Things come to an ugly head when Valerie and sister Rachel go stay the summer with their father. Not only is he never home, but there's not even any food for the girls to eat. Eventually Valerie calls her mother to go home early. Rachel (who has a boyfriend in the neighborhood) stays. A few days later Rachel is delivered home, black and blue, from being beaten by their father.
Michelle Kane tells a stark straightforward tale of abuse. In the end we see Valerie emerge a strong (yet damaged) young woman, determined to have the cycle end with her.
25% of EVERY BOOK PURCHASE GOES TO HELP VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.
Written By Melissa.

New Year's Goals

2008-01-01T12:42:00.000-08:00

I don't believe much in New's Year's Resolutions because it often seems "resolutions" are broken more easily than setting realistic goals. Hopefully, reaching one's goals by working hard, or harder... can make any "resolution" more attainable. Here's my LIST OF TOP GOALS FOR 2008:

Be the best teacher, mother, writer, wife, daughter, sister, and friend that I can possibly be. To reach my goals I need to be more patient, dedicated, less stressed, and finally stop all the complaining!

That's it. Simple, right? Now it's official---it's in writing. Comment with your own New Year's Goals if you dare. Come on. I double dare you:)

Snow Day

2007-12-17T11:24:00.000-08:00

Hurray! Today is our first official "snow day" of the school year! Saturday night southeastern Michigan got quite a blast of the cold, white stuff. I loathe Michigan winters, but the snow days can be quite a bonus.
I would definitely be able to enjoy this day more if I wasn't sick with an Upper Respiratory Infection....is that just a fancy name for a cold?
I also brought work home as far as grading papers, etc. and now will be doing household chores, like laundry, on my day off. Goes super quick when you are also chasing around a two-year-old.

So rejoice; celebrate the snow day, go shopping, catch up on wrapping holiday gifts, or build a snowman with your kids. Like butterflies, snow days don't come around as often as we'd like.

GIVE THANKS

2007-11-21T11:34:00.000-08:00

With Thanksgiving tomorrow, I'm trying to fill my glass half full instead of half empty. It helps to write down and remember what I am grateful for in my life, instead of complaining about what my life lacks. I think Sheryl Crow said it best, "It's not getting what you want, it's wanting what you got." Soak up some sun (or rain) this holiday and make a list of things you are thankful. Here's mine:

*my health
*my beautiful, healthy son
*my family's health
*my husband
*my job
*my house
*my friends
*thin crust, whole wheat pizza
*Chenin Blanc
*The punk channel on Sirius radio
*my green eyes
*my education
*Kensington Community Church
*Weeds, Ugly Betty, Californication, and The Office
*my cell phone
*books, magazines
*donating money to help end domestic violence
*the colors of autumn
*my Netflix account
*Target
*Starbucks
*food, heat, clothing
*love
*kisses and "squeezes" from Xander
*dreams that come true
*students who are respectful and listen
*readers of CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL
*Borders Bookstores
*heated car seats/remote start
*the internet
*babysitters
*vacations
*freedom

Writer's Digest Magazine says...

2007-11-18T14:06:00.001-08:00

this about Michelle Kane's new book CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL..."great title...bright, clear voice..."

GOT LIT?

Author Interview: Michelle Kane

2007-11-11T14:29:00.001-08:00

Very pleased and excited to be featured on www.bookreviewtime.com

If you haven't read my latest author interview---you can read it here:

http://www.bookreviewtime.com/fiction/drama/sample-drama.html

A Tale of Two Ultrasounds

2007-11-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

It was another frigid Michigan afternoon in January 2005. I pulled my wool coat tighter over my bulging belly, as the wind slapped the drifting snow into my face. My husband squeezed my hand as he guided me into our untrasound appointment at the hospital. Warm, clear gel over my body, gentle hands touching me. Beautiful baby sucking thumb. I see the heart beating...I feel my own heart beating, melting into tiny butterflies. "Everything look greats," the tech whispers.
Oh happy, joyful day.

It was another frigid Michigan afternoon in November 2007. I pull my leather jacket tighter across my chest, as the wind whips the freezing rain into my face. I clench the lab order from my ob/gyn tighter in my fist, wanting to toss it into a puddle. "Mass--L breast," is written in black ink. First the mammogram. Strange hands touching, squeezing, pressing into cold, metallic machine. Then the gel again, once a warm friend, now a cold enemy. Fleshy, dark gray mass clouding the monitor. It laughs at me, as my heart pounds and belly screams.

"Your doctor will go over everything with you," the tech whispers.
Oh evil, dreadful day.

Confessions of a High School Teacher

2007-10-30T15:40:00.000-07:00

Mugs of coffee: 4
Caffeinated H2o: 1
Emergency chocolates: 5 (sneaking into Halloween candy early)
Diet Cherry Cokes: 1
Students who smell strangely like old moth balls: 2
Confiscated cell phones: 3
Cafeteria food eaten: 0

Getting up before the crack of dawn to teach apathetic teens, one needs massive amounts of caffeine--at least I do. This is what I cannot live without. As a teacher, I could live without kids who show up for class unprepared with no pens and no paper. Um...it's a writing class, remember? Didn't think you would need anything to write with or write on today?
Why is it they all remember to bring their cell phones and the only thing they are motivated to write is to "text" to their friends on phone, carelessly hidden under desk on top of lap?

Advice to all new teachers: keep things going, change things up. Do not stick to the same lesson all hour. Our job is not to entertain, yet we have to be entertaining or we lose them. Too many kids are already lost.

Days to Thanksgiving break: 16 (not counting weekends) :)

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

2007-10-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

Even President Bush wants you to GET LIT with CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL by Michelle Kane. Check out this latest press release fron the White House.

President Proclaims National Domestic Violence Awareness Month By the President of the United States of AmericaA Proclamation
En Español
The social blight of domestic violence has continued to burden America into the 21st Century. Our homes should be places of safety and comfort. Tragically, domestic violence can and does turn many homes into places of torment. The grim facts speak for themselves: almost one-third of American women murdered each year are killed by their current or former partners, usually a husband. Approximately 1 million women annually report being stalked. And many children suffer or witness abuse in their homes, which can sadly spawn legacies of violence in families across America.
Domestic violence spills over into schools and places of work; and it affects people from every walk of life. Though abuse may occur in the seclusion of a private residence, its effects scar the face of our Nation.
In the United States, we have strict laws intended to hold domestic abusers accountable for their vile conduct by bringing them to justice, but laws alone are not enough. A comprehensive, coordinated approach must shape our strategy to reduce domestic violence. Accordingly, the Federal Government is partnering with States, local communities, and other entities to implement tough and effective mechanisms to respond to reports of domestic violence.
These efforts include specialized units in police departments, and prosecutors offices that work with local victims' advocates to make the criminal justice system more responsive to victims and more retributive to their abusers. Jurisdictions throughout the country now provide legal assistance to ensure that when victims try to escape abuse, they can obtain legal help from attorneys who understand the dynamics of domestic violence. Law enforcement officers, prosecutors, court personnel, and service providers are working to improve their responses to the often hidden victims of elder abuse and violence against women with disabilities. Moreover, thousands of communities now have shelters and emergency services for abused women and their children.
As a Nation, we must prioritize addressing the problem of domestic violence in our communities every day of the year. National Domestic Violence Awareness Month provides us with a special opportunity to emphasize that domestic violence is a crime, to warn abusers that they will be prosecuted, and to offer victims more aid and support. We can and must radically reduce and work to eliminate this scourge from our land. To succeed, this effort must be echoed by officials from every segment of the criminal justice system, Federal, State, and local. Community leaders, health care professionals, teachers, employers, friends, and neighbors all will play an important role in eradicating domestic violence.
As we observe National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I call on all Americans to commit to preventing domestic violence and to assist those who suffer from it. These collective efforts will contribute to peace in our homes, schools, places of work, and communities and will help ensure the future safety of countless children and adults.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2001, as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I urge all Americans to learn more about this terrible problem and to take positive action in protecting communities and families from its devastating effects.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

Britney Spears loses custody of kids....finally!

2007-10-02T15:42:00.000-07:00

Over-rated "Pop princess" Britney Spears lost custody of her two young sons yesterday for failing to follow a court order to submit to drug testing, obtain a valid driver's license, and enroll in parenting classes.
It's about time they took those kids away from her!
That pretty much says it all. She did not want those boys. As a mother, I cannot imagine being without my son. I would rather go without oxygen than not have the love of my life by my side. Is she that selfish and self-obsessed that she cares more about herself, partying, flashing her va-jay-jay all around town then being home with those two boys? Apparently so. I would have done everything in my power to keep my precious children than have to give them up to some wanna-be rapper baby-daddy. I would be sitting on top of my money in my beach house in Malibu playing Elmo with the kids and watching Sesame Street, instead of club hopping, lip synching, and getting my head shaved.

Are the kids better off? What do you think? Will K-Fed take better care of his children than their OWN mother?

Michelle Kane wants you to GET LIT with her new book, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL...25% of royalties go to help victims of domestic violence

Teenage Baby Killer

2007-09-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

I cried real salty tears today as I saw the news about the Michigan teen volleyball player who gave birth to a LIVE infant and then put the corpse in a plastic bag.
I know, I know---from domestic violence to infant murderers, I write about some morbid stuff I hear and see in the news. I can hardly stand to even watch the news any more. Where is all the good news about people helping others? I'm tired about hearing about assaults, beatings, rapes, molestations and murders in the media.
Why are people so crazy? What can we do about it? How does a "good Catholic schoolgirl" raised in the suburbs, a college student no less, kill her own child?
Was she not educated on her many other, more acceptable options?
Was she too selfish to care?
Parents, please teach your kids some morals and values. Don't mean to be preachy----but come on, this girl obviously knew better.

OJ Simpson--Domestic Violence Murderer

2007-09-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know there is a lot of debate out there about the Goldmans changing their minds to publish OJ's sick book. But what other choice do they have to get their money he owes them? It makes me sick to think that not only did he get away with years of domestic violence abuse, murdering two people, and still living in luxury avoiding doing the right thing (surprise) and taking care of his settlement in the civil suit, but now he's been arrested?
What does this say about this guy? Here I am trying to help survivors of domestic violence and you have someone like OJ out on the loose to hurt more people. It's just not right.

Britney Spears/VMA's

2007-09-11T14:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, I could not just watch that TRAIN WRECK on Sunday night without adding my two cents, could I? Is Britney Spears now possessed with the spirit of Anna Nicole Smith? She can't sing (lip sync), can't dance, and still has her "baby pouch." She seemed zonked out of her mind, stumbling through those Dance? moves. I am so embarrassed for her, if she is not embarrassed herself. The Kid Rock/Tommy Lee altercation was more exciting than her "performance."

Please Britney---if I had your money, I would sit back in my mansion in Malibu and play with my kids. Do everyone a favor and retire early. Aren't your FANS all grown up themselves and moms now?
You career is so over. Ooops, you did it again...messed up that is.

Fighting to end domestic violence

2007-09-09T13:44:00.001-07:00

My first "profit sharing" check is out to help victims of domestic violence. It feels great! Donating 25% of profits from sales of my book, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL may not help me sell more books (hope it does!) but no matter how small, I am contributing to a worthy cause---making a difference.

Domestic violence needs to be put to a STOP! Victims of DV need help---for themselves, as well as their children. Again, I saw another case this morning about a local man killing his wife. He was in jail for a previous domestic violence attack on his wife and now he is free and on the loose after her murder. Doesn't it make you sick?

A Newbie's Guide to Publishing: Your Game Face

2007-08-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

A Newbie's Guide to Publishing: Your Game Face

Somerset Collection

2007-08-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

Today, Xander and Mommy went shopping at the Somerset Collection in Troy for Mommy's "back-to-school" clothes. Even us teachers need some new school outfits to look fashionable throughout the season (makes going back to work more tolerable!) Today, is also the day I decided to never again take a toddler to the mall.
Now that Xander can press a button and unlock himself out of his stroller, he refuses to stay seated. "I want out! Want to walk!"
He stiffens and wails when Mommy tries to put him back in the stroller upon one of his escapes. Besides putting a straight jacket on the kid, he's so stubborn he will get his way or die trying. "I want to walk!"

Ducking into the Gap dressing room to try on some jeans and pants, I let him walk around in my tennis shoes to keep him quiet. "I smell kaka, Mama." So I change his pull-up right there on the Gap floor on the dressing room. Five minutes later. "I smell kaka again."
Mommy changes it again. Mommy struggles to get toddler back in stroller. Mommy forces toddler against his will back into stroller. Toddler screams bloody murder. Salesgirl asks if things are alright.

Things are alright as Xander escapes from his stroller again and runs out into the mall.
Never again. In three hours, all I managed to buy is one shirt and two pairs of socks. Between tantrums, feedings, changings, strapping into stroller, there wasn't any time or any sanity left to shop. This teacher has finally learned a lesson.

13 Days

2007-08-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

In exactly 13 days, I will be back in the classroom. Boo hoo! Where did the summer go? Why does it always seem that fun times go by so quickly, while days at work go by so slowly? Each minute is still only 60 seconds.
I must squeeze in all the fun I can before I go back to work. My priority now is to play, play, and play some more with my two-year-old son before summer sets and autumn returns for another crisp season.
Is it too much to ask for good, respectable, responsible high school students this year? I will try to be the best teacher I can, and I only ask my students to be the best they can. If you come to class, expect to work. Come prepared, bring your books, read, write and enjoy it. My job will be much more enjoyable. Yes, I know I am a dreamer. THE SECRET says to visualize the positive, right?

Blurry-Eyed and Bushed

2007-08-09T15:33:00.000-07:00

You’re not tired yet? Unbelievable. Eye can feel my lids becoming heavy and beginning to close.
Can’t…stay…open. Must…stay…open.
Just before Eye fade to black, you force me back open to stare blankly at a little blinking black line on a white, almost blank computer screen. I think you called it a “canvas” once.

Can’t you see that Eye’m getting blurry? The stinging and burning sensation you feel in my sockets should tip you off. Yeah, yeah, Eye know that you got a late start. Shouldn’t have been abusing me and wasting me by flipping through the television channels trying to find that Reality TV marathon. Like “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” is worth blowing the opportunity to become a bestselling author. You’re pushing me too hard, and Eye don’t like it one bit. Eye don’t want to be blamed if you miss your deadline. Eye won’t be responsible for your procrastination.

Why don’t you give us a break? Eye’m just two pale-green irises with overworked pupils that cannot help you anymore. You’re getting too pushy. Eye can get really irritated if you strain me. Look in the mirror at me and you will see those little red squiggly lines forcing their way in. Eye’m so ugly. Not very becoming on a promising, new writer. Eye even think I see some dark, puffy circles under me. Tsk tsk. Why do you treat me so badly? Without me, you’re nothing. Sure you’ll still have your imagination—but you can’t create without vision. Face it. You need me.

Can you stop yawning and rubbing at me? It won’t make things better. Eye thought we were a team—you and Eye. The only thing that will help us now is a good night’s sleep. All Eye can see are hazy images of letters mixing into words and blurring into sentences. Members of the alphabet lost and angry-- jumping out at me from the screen. Oops! Just spotted some spelling errors and a few typos. There’s really no rush, you know. Better for you to perfect your work than to get any more of those nasty rejection letters. You know Eye hate reading those. They’re brutal on our motivation.

Get some rest, girl. Shut me…close me…it’s okay. Relax. You know Eye will be here for you tomorrow. Well-rested and ready to go. Me…you…the canvas. Sound like a plan?

Darkness.
Lights out.
Goodnight.

Finally some shut eye.

Michelle Kane hopes you GET LIT with her new novel, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL. A portion of profits from book sales to be donated to domestic violence shelters.

My D list celebrity sightings

2007-07-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

So a few weeks ago, we went to a local Greek festival, and OPA! guess who was there performing a FREE concert? Yes, American Idol castoff, Constatine. Check out the photo from his "HOT" performance. He's a lot thinner in person.

Then...on a recent trip to the Hard Rock Casino in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, guess which MTV reality star I spotted now working as a consierge at the hotel? Gay Dan from "The Real World Miami." Looking absolutely fabulous and talking with his hands, of course.

Now what I want to know is when will I run into some A listers, like Brangelina?

Rock of Love/Scott Baio is 45 and single

2007-07-24T16:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, so when I'm not being a wife, mother, writer, reader, exerciser, traveler...etc., I watch reality tv shows about has-beens. Like a good train wreck or car crash, they are quite addicting to gawk at.

There is a new show on VH1 called Rock of Love---which is about the lead singer, Bret Michaels of 80's hair band fame, Poison. He still has the long, bleached blonde hair and still wears the do-rags and at 40- something is making out with all kinds of drunken skanks half his age. It's so bad, I can't stop watching. Am I a big Poison fan? No. Is Bret Michaels hiding his receding hairline. Yes. It's very funny to see an aging rocker still look the same 20 years later and thinks he looks just as hot.

Now there's also the VH1 show "Scott Baio is 45 and Single" for all you Happy Days fans. I never knew Scott Baio was such a jerk to all these women. ...and Chachi was so sweet---my old crush is now crushed forever. Michelle Does NOT love Chachi any longer.

I can't wait to view more mindless TV when more 80s has-beens come back around. This time it's The Coreys. Sweet. Two train wrecks for the time of one.

Harry Potter

2007-07-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

Are you into the whole Harry Potter craze? They are having parties all over town and read-ins for the lastest and last book in the series. I just don't get it. I have not read any of the books. All I know is that I am very jealous right now of J.K. Rowling.

At least kids...and adults too are reading!

$660 Million Priest Sex Abuse Settlement

2007-07-16T19:37:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles, CA.

In one of the largest settlements ever for the victims of pedophile priests, I am happy that it finally seems some justice is being served. But is it really? Catholic priests have long been quietly shuffled around from parish to parish to silence the awful rumors of pedophilia. So for any other pedophile, they would have to register as a sex offender and face some type of criminal charges. Why do Catholic priests get "off" so easy?
Can a million dollars or more help to the pain after having your childhood murdered by some sick priest? Is that really justice for the victims, their loved ones, and for the pedophiles?

In my book, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL, the character of Father Fingers gets shuffled off to a different parish after the rumors got louder and he continued to live his life, and his work in the name of Jesus Christ. How many more children had to suffer from the hands of an embarrassed diocese with their new priest? Priests who are sent to other churches don't suffer a consequence, they continue to destruct lives and molest innocent children. Catholics beware! Is your favorite priest a transplant from another parish?
Please--do not let your kids be alone with these pedophiles.

Dreamer?

2007-07-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

I forgot to update the dreamer side of blog! Silly me! Does one have time to dream anymore? Actually dreamed last night of a big giant bee zooming and buzzing by my head. Might have something to do with husband actually slashing a dozen or so bee hives that were built sneakily under our deck.
Dreaming of book sales---more money to help fight domestic violence and a relaxing, luxury cruise to the Greek Islands.....mmmmm......better than bees.

Writers Write, Right?

2007-07-02T14:08:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been almost a month and I have not been blogging much. Busy with summer fun and a bunch of other stuff. Mom stuff mostly. Which brings me to me being a writer, I should be writing, right? And that includes blogging. Speaking of this blog--which is about news about my life as a Mom/Writer/Teacher--I should update you on the those three areas of my life.

Mom: Have waited to hit the potty training hard as I wait to get through my last jumbo box of Huggies. Xander's allergies have been flaring up lately (like Mommy's) as we have been spending lots of time outdoors---playing, swimming, checking out festivals in and around Detroit, etc. Going through lots of tissue over here as Xander's nose is constantly running.

Writer: Doing some shameless self-promotion as have plastered up book announcements all over town--you may notice my bright, neon pink flyers in downtown areas of Ferndale, Royal Oak and Birmingham. Trying to line up some radio interviews and of course, the internet marketing is never ending.

Teacher: On a much needed vacation. When I asked the kids what they learned in class as an extra credit option to their final exam---here were some of their responses:

"Nothing."
"That I hated reading boring Romeo and Juliet."
"I learned that you have a passion for coffee. You should open your own coffee shop."

I am also a wife! Of almost five years--this Friday! How does time go by so fast after marriage?? Happy anniversary, honey!

8 Days and counting

2007-06-04T16:06:00.001-07:00

OMG! Like the students, teachers also cannot wait until the end of the school year. They have already checked out and left their brains and manners at the door. This summer I need to work on book promotion, writing of KIDS OF 8 MILE HIGH and hanging out with my now 2-year-old son, working on the potty training. GET LIT! Buy CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL, by Michelle Kane.

Mamapazooza

2007-05-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

We took Xander to the Detroit Zoo over the weekend to check out some cool polar bears and sweet kangaroos, not to mention some great music punkified for kids from the Candy Band! Look how much fun he had dancing all over the place!

Go Xander!! Go! Dance! Dance!

May's MetroParent Magazine

2007-05-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

My article, "For Mothers, For Daughters, For Discussion" is in the RECHARGING MOM section of this month's MetroParent. My book, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL also gets a shout out! Happy reading! ...and Happy early Mother's Day Moms! Time to go and enjoy the rare Michigan sunshine with my son.

RAVE REVIEW FOR NEW BOOK

2007-04-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

Please check out this week's Suburban Lifestyles newspaper. Book reviewer, Margo Lagattuta says, "There is much to appreciate in CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL..." and "This is a story many young people could relate to, and perhaps their parents as well."

Suburban Lifestyles

2007-04-12T10:25:00.000-07:00

Anyone living in the north Oakland County area, please watch for my featured book review in next week's Suburban Lifestyles newspaper. Have you gotten LIT yet?? Buy CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL.

METRO TIMES

2007-04-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

The latest & greatest news is that I have a shout out this week in the Detroit area Metro Times. Pick it up free at a bazillion different places around town. Check out p. 28...and GET LIT!!!!

DETROIT FREE PRESS

2007-04-08T21:22:00.000-07:00

Today...is it still Easter Sunday?.....I was featured in a Q &A article in the Community section of the Detroit Free Press. Not local? Click here to read:http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070408/CFP04/704080444/1112#article_comments

Although there were some errors:
1. I grew up on the northwest side of Detroit---not southwest
2. I went to St. Suzanne, not St. Cecilia
3. My next book is titled KIDS OF 8 MILE HIGH---not 8 MILE HIGH

And yes...I really do photograph that bad!

Parent/Teacher Conference Nightmare

2007-03-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, parents, here's the thing...after surviving 4 hours---yes 4 HOURS of talking to parents at our Spring Parent/Teacher conferences last night, I have a question. WHY ARE YOU BRINGING YOUR KIDS TO CONFERENCES? Nothing in P/T conference mentions the word "child" or student conferencing. Yell at your kid after you get home about his bad report card and how he/she is grounded forever. Please do not humiliate your child in front of his/her teacher. It will never bring positive results. I don't need to hear you threaten to come to school with your kid and hold his hand all through the halls as you walk through with slippers on and curlers in your hair. Please parents take this advice... get the report card, talk to teachers, be as brief as possible, and get home to your children and HELP them with the homework.

Catholic schoolgirl

2007-02-25T14:58:00.000-08:00

Here's a photo of me on my first day of school at St. Suzanne, Detroit, Michigan. And this was only the beginning...

notice the church in the background.

Hellooooo Father Fingers!!!!! R.I.P.

BORDERS! BORDERS! Read all about it!

2007-02-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

Now available for order at all major Borders Bookstores! CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL---can't find it on the shelves? Order it at Borders! The more readers who order the book, the more money we can donate to domestic violence organizations. Keep women & children safe. Peace & blessings, MK

SNOW DAY #2

2007-02-14T08:43:00.000-08:00

I think the only cool thing about living in Michigan right now AND being a teacher, is like last Monday, today is another SNOW DAY!!!!!!! And Valentine's Day! Oh, happy day! Time to do more PROMOTION on the book, play with Xander, and catch up on stuff. Stuff? Exercise? Cleaning? Laundry? Reading? Anna Nicole Smith gossip? Doesn't matter---all that matters right now is TIME. Need more time, have more time, love more time.

Retraction

2007-02-05T09:14:00.000-08:00

I promised a student I would make note that she did apologize for her behavior in class. And this was before I told her that I put part of her note on this blog. lol So, J.D.....apology accepted and it's appreciated. Most teens think that us high school teachers are the ENEMY. Even though we are HIGHLY underpaid, we still try to do the best job we can. Thank God today is a SNOW DAY with these brrrrific minus 1 degree temps and I can stay home & play with Xander and do some promoting. Good day for the rest of you to curl up with a good book, CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL....??? and read!

Press Release

2007-01-26T16:24:00.000-08:00

Outskirts Press--For Immediate Release

Detroit author and school teacher announces the release of her autobiographical novel, Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl. Zeroing in on the Catholic Church controversy, author Michelle Kane reveals the kind of secrets the Catholic Church has been sweeping under the rug for years.
Detroit, MI, January 25, 2007 --(PR.COM)-- “Most people are too afraid to take on the Catholic Church, but not narrator Valerie Bernowski,” author Michelle Kane notes in reference to her latest book. “This is one protagonist who tells it like it is. Nothing and no one is off limits; including Valerie’s dead-beat dad, Ivan, and school pastor, ‘Father Fingers.’”
Based on Kane’s real-life experiences as a Catholic schoolgirl, protagonist Valerie Bernowski’s story unfolds through intertwining chapters of short stories. Readers will get a close-up look into real-life issues; such as domestic violence, divorce, rape, and the little discussed Catholic priest sex scandals.

Buy the book at: www.michellekane.com
A percentage of profits from book sales will go to organizations devoted to ending domestic violence

Read the 1st chapter of CONFESSIONS

2007-01-17T16:39:00.000-08:00

Read the 1st chapter at: www.mrbellersneighborhood.com/story.php?storyid=1692

Book now available for purchase!

2007-01-17T16:32:00.000-08:00

CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL, a novel--is now available at:
http://outskirtspress.com//confessionsofacatholicschoolgirl

Confiscated Note

2007-01-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

So this is a "censored" version of a note that was passed in my classroom during 5th hour this week. Should I be happy my 11th grade students are at least writing something in class????

Yeah this class is pissing me off im about to cry my entire break was f*cked up now i come back to my teacher telling me my voice goes right through her brain. F*ck this s*it! and everyone gets pissed F*ck this s*it!

LMAO...YEAH MY BREAK WAS SO SH*TTY TOO...ANNNND THIS CLASS DOES SUCK BIG ONES..I DUNNO IM SO EMOTIONAL CUZ LIKE IM ON MY PERIOD...WHATEVER THOUGH...IM GONNA DO MY WORK OR SLEEP SO BUH-BYE

SORRY SO SLOPPY LOVE YA LOTS TTYL

Back to school

2007-01-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

5 a.m alarm clock
snooze
5:09 alarm clock
snooze
5:18: alarm clock
snooze
5:27
1st cup of coffee
6:10
2nd cup of coffee
6:25
3rd cup of coffee
6:45
drive to work--4th cup of coffee

7:30 a.m.
1st energy drink
25 high students
1st day back from Christmas break

2 emergency chocolates eaten---found in bottom of Christmas stocking

ughhhhh...sleepy....brain stayed awake all night, thoughts spinning in head
body tossing and turning in bed

baby is sick with diarrhea
enough said

Book update!

2007-01-01T13:13:00.000-08:00

Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl --the book has finally been sent to print! Hurray! Have been so busy editing the thing, holiday stuff, house stuff, blah and blah have not written lately. What's it been---2 months or more? Happy New Year! Now is a good time to return all your crappy Christmas gifts and get ready to buy my book:) More soon...

Autumn

2006-10-03T15:54:00.000-07:00

With being overwhelmed, tired, having too much to do and not enough time, I sat on the floor and played with my 16-month-old son today. Consumed with trying to advance my career and stressing out about handling the promotion and blah blah blahs for my book release, I played with the back of Xander's hair and noticed the way the blonde tufts curled up and around my fingers. Soft and silky and shiny. Mommy & Xander played outside and noticed the reds, yellows, and oranges of leaves beginning to change on the trees. The ducks quacked at us as we ran underneath the rays of rare Michigan autumn sun. "It's not getting what you want...it's wanting what you got." Thanks Sheryl Crowe for the reminder.http://myspace.com/readmichellekane

Suspicious in suburbia

2006-09-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

So, our yellow lab, Dakota starts barking and going nuts about 4 a.m today. My husband looks out the window and sees our neighbor's car in his driveway. We all fall back asleep. This morning we awaken to a fresh lawn job and run down bushes in our front yard. Neighbor across the street has tire tracks buried in his lawn as well. Next door neighbor's car is smashed in by front passenger side door and grass is stuck in it. hmmmm??? Husband asks NDN how he's feeling and he says he has a hangover...doesn't know anything about tire tracks in lawn, although there's clearly tracks running from his driveway, into his grass, then into ours. Wonder if incident has anything to do with wife & kids in Korea for two months.

Energy Zap

2006-09-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

Cups of caffeine: 5
Emergency Chocolates: 3
Energy: 0
Promptness: On time, with 2 minutes to spare before the 1st bell
The students just sucked the life and energy right out of me today, as I almost fell asleep on the way home. One teen boy, (why is it always the boys?) stunk so bad, my stomach started to spin and I had to take three steps back away from him which wasn't enough because I could still smell his B.O.
What non-teachers don't understand is that lecturing & explaining can drain any ounce of energy you have left for all the other million little things you have to accomplish outside of school. Is it Friday yet?

Production

2006-09-12T15:25:00.000-07:00

CONFESSIONS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOLGIRL--the novel is finally in production! yay! Now the hard part has begun; designing my webpage, writing the press release, promotion, promotion, promotion! So, sorry about the boring blogs lately...I promise the book edition will be more entertaining! ...and if it's not--you can always try to sell it at a used bookstore. lol Please go buy it when it comes out. Help an underpaid, overworked teacher retire early! Namaste.

Choices

2006-09-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

With the students first day back at school, and some of them stinking some kind of funk...(bad hygiene or gym class?), I analyzed the choices I had made about the work/mommy situation. Buy a tiny, old 1200 square foot bungalow in a mediocre Detroit 'burb and stay home with Xander, thus resign from job, or buy brand new 2700 square foot house in plush Detroit' burb and keep job as high school teacher? Hmmm...you know what I did as I have been lecturing all day to smelly teens who wished they were still on summer vacation. And who doesn't wish that? Three co-workers/new-moms have decided not to return to school this year! But it's all good as the plaque on my wall reads, "Teachers: preserve the past, reveal the present, create the future." While napping with Xander today, one ear heard Oprah say, "it's never to late to live your dreams." ...which is exactly what I am trying to do.

It's Over

2006-08-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

Summer is now officially over for me because I go back to work tomorrow. No more staying up late drinking wine and watching NGC shows about bin Laden's life story, (which is what I did last night). Watched some of the Emmy's and was glad to see The Office win for best comedy. Love that show! Too tired to write. Need more caffeine.

Time after Time

2006-08-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

I've noticed that time flies when you are off for the entire summer and time drags when you are working a 7:30-2:30 shift. Thinking about trying not to think about returning to work next week. Remember when you were a kid, with no responsibilities and you were bored with all the extra time you had on your hands? Now that I'm old there is never enough time to do everything I want to do. Feel like my time is running out. In fact, is blogging a waste of time? I will think about that while Xander and I are out shopping for my new fall "Mrs. Smith" wardrobe.

Close Encounters of the Turd Kind

2006-08-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

So, after a night of my husband feeding our 15-month-old tortilla chips & guacamole, I wake up to find him covered from head to toe in his own poop. There were turds stuck in his hair, under his fingernails, in front of the crib, behind the crib, smeared all over crib and sheets. My initial reaction was to scream, which in turn, caused Xander to cry. I pulled him out and threw him right in the bathtub. I'm afraid of what could happen if he ate his own poop. If any other new moms are reading this, please learn a lesson from me and incoporate Mexican food into your child's diet when he is no longer a toddler.

Shipshewana

2006-08-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hello blog. Back from Michigan's west coast. Make a little side trip to Amish country in Shipshewana, Indiana. Thought I could get some real homemade Amish stuff. All the gift shops there sold trinkets & such made in China. The "homemade" ice cream was really good though and could have sworn the beef jerky was mooing at me when I bit into it. Very fresh stuff. Time to get to work for ClubMom.

Wanderlust

2006-08-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

In exactly 2 weeks, I will be back to work! Argghhh. So much to do before I go back. Sunning on Lake Michigan, playing with Xander, designing my book cover. Not to mention back-to-school shopping. Teachers need to do that too, ya know? Wanderlust has kicked in, gotta get out of town. Leaving tomorrow for a few days. Vacation from the every day life, bye Xander, bye house, bye laundry and chores, bye blog.

Candy Band

2006-08-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl

Xander, Daddy, and I went to see the Candy Band this weekend. If you have kids, take them to see this band! They're 4 stay-at-home moms from Royal Oak, Michigan who play punked out versions of nursery rhymes & kids' songs. They really rock! Xander was digging it big time.

Surprise! No porn pics!

2006-08-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, so obviously I titled this so all the pervs out there searching for pictures of underage chicks in skimpy schoolgirl uniforms...know that they will not find that here. I googled the title of this so-called blog & also title of my forthcoming novel, to see what was up. I found a teenager in the Phillipines with the same blog title as me--but her entries are about her hellish life at a Catholic school. The other sites are, of course, PORN!!! No surprise there--all the sick twisted minds are looking for something else to occupy their fingers on the web. Well, sorry to disappoint you pervs, but this is not what you need. Buy my book anyways. I'll let you know as soon as it COMES OUT. Your ex-schoolgirl signing off, NAMASTE.

Work

2006-08-08T06:35:00.000-07:00

Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl

In exactly three weeks, I will be returning to work. Where did the summer go...and how much more fun can I cram in before it's over? Oh wohisme...thinking about my hot, un-AC classroom...hanging up my diversity posters & making copies of my syllabus, going to faculty meetings, and planning lessons. uggggghhh. It so pisses me off that teachers are way underpaid. We shape kids for the future. Surely, that should equal a doctor's or lawyer's salary. Right? Right.

The Doors

2006-08-07T11:19:00.000-07:00

Need a lil' break from researching parenting questions for my ClubMom.com writing gig to vent the frustrations of trying, and I do mean TRYING to work at home with a 14-month-old just learning to walk. First, Xander tries to turn off the computer. "No, Xander, that's not a toy. Mommy's working." Then, with his cute little "drunken sailor" walk he penguins over to the guest bedroom door and opens it...locking himself inside. Stop writing. Mommy to the rescue!
"Xander, why are you crying? And how come you can open the door from the outside, but not from the inside yet?" Maybe when he starts to say more than, "duck," "dog," or "mama," he can explain that one to me.

Confessions of a Catholic Schoolgirl

ClubMom

2006-08-03T12:24:00.000-07:00

I just finished some writing for ClubMom.com. I'm trying to work ahead of my deadline, since I know I will be soooo busy once my book goes to print. Check out what I've written. Go to clubmom.com and click on go-to moms, then click on diet/fitness & scroll down & you will see my name and pic with all the titles of articles I've written so far. Dieting moms should get a good read, if you're not even a mom...maybe not. But if you are watching your weight, my tips & recipes are still helpful! I think you might have to log in for a free membership to get on the site.

Summer

2006-08-02T07:43:00.000-07:00

Summer is really speeding by...like the rest of my life. I have to cram in more fun, more stuff, more shopping, more playing, more sun, etc. etc. etc. Before I know it, I will be back on the 2nd floor in my stuffy, overheated classroom trying to teach kids how to write who don't care about writing.