YEAR IN REVIEW

Have you already evaluated your life in 2008? I think 2008 was very special to me because it connected me to you...my readers! Last year on this date I remember thinking of all of the possibilities for my life. I dreamed of having my book published, teaching others to write and realize their own potential and I also wanted to do something that brought people together regardless of race, ethnicity, etc. I am happy to see that my dreams came true. I have been blessed with introducing Janelle to all of you! People have told me that she has encouraged their kids young and not so young to be an individual and to be proud of that. I have marveled at the many workshops that took place in 2008 and the works that came from them. Many of the attendees at these events claim that they are not writers...but I have seen excellent works develop from them taking two hours to hone in on their skills. I have traveled all over the East Coast and the Mid-west meeting kind hearted people of all shapes, sizes, colors and belief systems. 2008 was a gift to me. I found my voice and my destiny....I learned how to truly believe in myself and not what others thought was best for me.

I let go of the things that held me back from being a productive person and held on to faith, love and hope! I'm excited for the year 2009 and I am grateful for 2008. How about you? What will 2009 bring forward in your life? Did you review your past year? What exciting things took place for you in 2008? We are less than 24 hours away from welcoming in a new year take some time to reflect! The best writing comes from moments of solace, thought and reflection.
Hope to see you on January 10th at the Creative Writing Workshop in Novi!
Read something good...and write about how good it was!

One of my favorite To-Do's

One of my favorite tasks of the work day is research. I truly enjoy being inspired by others accomplishments. I have had the pleasure of meeting other children book authors at different events. I am always impressed by their knowledge of the industry and their unique way of connecting to others through words. I have never met two authors who were exactly the same. I am happy for this fact. I think it is so important that many different views are expressed in Children's Lit. I'm sure that young readers appreciate having a variety of stories to choose from as opposed to the same old topic. What's the best part of your day? Do you like recess at school? Why? The exercise? free-time? Something totally different? Do you enjoy a quiet moment at wok when no one is in the office yet? Think about the best part of your day...and be grateful because it helps to make you your best you!!
Read something great! Write something better and appreciate those special parts of the day! :)

CONTEST FOR KIDS!

Calling all Aspiring writers (under 18)

If you have read "Who I am not what I am" you are able to enter! Please write a 1-2 page essay on the impact that "Who I am not what I am" has had on you. Have you been nicer to others? Started your own writing project? It does not matter we just want to know how this book has been helpful to you. The contest begins today December 29th and all entries must be turned in by January 20th. Please mail entries to: Young Writers Contest P.O. Box 530432, Livonia MI. 48153. Contest winners will receive "Who I am not what I am" merchandise, "Who I am"certificate and have their award winning essay featured on my blog!

Read something good and write something better!

UNWRAP YOUR POTENTIAL!

Readers & Writers!

The time is now! A new year beckons what will you do with your talent? Do you feel as though you used your resolution list as a guide throughout the year? The best thing about new beginnings is that they don't just happen in January...and you don't have to wait to get started on your dream! If your dream is to be a healthier eater...take those steps now! If you would like to have a book published before the year is over put the agenda together today for how you plan on attacking that goal. You can do anything you put your mind to. I meet people with phenomenal plans for their own books at my signings. I am always inspired by the readers that share their ideas with me. I always suggest that they write down the steps to make their dream come true. It is very easy to accomplish your goal if you have a plan. Speaking of plans if you are free on January 10th I am teaching a Creative Writing Workshop at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. The workshops are great for expanding your journal entries and diversifying your writing style. I also share resources and tips for getting published!

The cost is $15 per person. Make this upcoming the year that you unwrap your potential!

Read Something Great!

Creative Writing Weekend Workshop

I hope to see you at the Creative Writing Workshop on January 10th at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. This is a great forum to learn more about the art of Creative Writing, adding depth to your poems, short stories and novel chapters and more! Many past participants have said that they have learned how to keep a organized writing regimen and now feel confident in sending out a manuscript. The cost is $15 per person and the benefits are priceless! I hope to see you there!

Take Time everyday to do something silly.-Philipa Walker

Hi Readers,
What have you done today that made you laugh? If your answer is nothing ...you must get started. The best stories come from laughs and the best laughs come from everyday actions and encounters. In this world many things can attempt to steal your joy. This is why we must remind ourselves to do things that bring out our best giggle. Make a funny face in the mirror, watch a comedy or read a joke book...no special talent is required to have a great laugh! I am a person that loves to sing and unfortunately my voice is not the best for melody. This does not stop me because singing brings me laughter (and it makes others laugh too).
Enjoy this fun season and discover the moments that bring out your greatest joy...and laugh about it!
Read something good!
Happy Holidays!

Fun in Grand Rapids...wrapping up the holidays!

Thanks everyone that stopped by Walden books in Grand Rapids! I had a great time talking to people on Saturday. Even though man of us are caught in the holiday rush many found time to buy a book, chat and share a great story with me! Speaking of great stories we will be gearing up for our new workshop on Jan. 10th Sat. 10-12. at the Novi Public Library. In addition to this on-going workshop we are beginning a series for young people (18 & under) this event will be a Creative Writing workshop and a open Mic. Jan. 17th. Keep me posted if you'd like to attend either. $15 cost for each session. Have fun shopping and spending time with family and take time out to write great stories.

A Fruitful life...

What does being fruitful mean to you? I think that it means living your life to its fullest and enjoying every bit of the sweetness that every day can bring. The glass really is half full...who needs a full glass all of the time anyway? I say be content with your lot but work very hard so that you never regret your lot in life. As a writer, I face amazing days filled with meeting great people, and doing what I love. I also have to motivate myself to the extreme because I am the boss of me...it's not easy to be my boss (even when it's me). The fruits of one's labor shows up everyday. For instance, did you write that journal entry yet? Have you sent out your manuscript? Are any writing classes in your planner for next year? In order to get the best return on our investment we have to plant the right seeds. If you want to get better grades...study more. If you want to see your dream come true...make it happen by preparation and sacrifice!

I hope to see you this Saturday in Grand Rapids. I will be signing copies of "Who I am not what I am" at the Walden Bookstore, Woodland Mall 12-2.

Making a list and checking it twice...Revising

Readers,
Have you ever done something that you regretted? Did you wish that you could take it back? Maybe you thought that it would be great if no one ever knew about the mistakes that you made. The best thing about writing is that ...you can revise! Many famous writers have made typos, grammar errors and more blunders. In writing you get a second chance. The most important tool that I had in college was a second pair of eyes. It's easy ...ask a trusted friend to look over your work. You can read your story or poem out loud and find an opportunity to revise as well. The times when I want to revise the least are times when I think that my words are just right. Don't let this stop you! It never hurts to re-write...even if it seems like you have a perfect story or book. Speaking of stories and books...I hope that you can make my book signing in Grand Rapids this Saturday at the Woodland Mall, Walden Books 12-2. It's not to late to get that perfect gift for the perfect reader! I will be teaching a creative writing workshop in Novi, MI on January 10th from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Public Library...cost is $15/person. I also invite anyone under 18 to a special writing workshop and Open Mic on January 17th...10 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Novi Public Library and immediately following at Solid Grounds Coffee House participants get to invite friends and family to hear their work they created in the class. As you check over your holiday list and deal with the hustle and bustle of the season ... I hope that you take time to enjoy the process and write about it! Real life makes for great stories.
Read something great and share it with a friend!

YOUR HOLIDAY BONUS!!!

Readers,

I wanted to give you a holiday bonus! I can't afford to give you a gift that cost $$ this year. I will give you a gift that gives back. Curious?? A writing bonus. Grab a dictionary choose 15 words (don't think to hard when choosing). Once you have them make sure that they are included in a 1 page poem or short-story that you create yourself. This is a great way to make your brain write differently than you normally would. Once you write your piece...you can feel free to post it on my page or you can just keep it to yourself in your journal. The best writings come from prompts...if you have any that you use to help you write better, please share them with the readers on this page. As always Read something great...Write something even better. : )

Take some time to throw a snowball!

Hi Readers,

This is it! We are in the busy season. You may be spending your days on line and in the malls. Many people are trying to figure out the best gift to give their loved ones. I think the best gift is quality time (that's just me). A great way to spend time with others is to start a book club! Have food, drink & great discussion. Your favorite book can be shared with those you love and you can make many new memories by enjoying the works of your favorite author together. You can do this at any age...if your special someone is too young to do this read to them and their friends at their next playgroup. If children learn to love reading early it is a love that will never go away. The best writers are those who read as children. Speaking of children if their are any kids on your list, I would love to see them this Saturday at the Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids. I will be signing books from 12-2 at the Walden Books. Come get a book, have cocoa and throw a snowball! Lots of fun events are coming for children and adults alike in January as well. Read something good and and give something great! :)

Tara

INSPIRATION IS KEY.....

Readers,

I truly enjoy the opportunity to live my destiny. I had a great time at the Creative Writing Workshop yesterday. The group was eager to write and share their works in our community. I always notice that when I host Creative Writing Workshops people are inspired by the works of others. The advantages of attending a forum of writers is that you can learn so much from the writing style of another person and also offer your works to inspire people as well. Everyone has a special contribution to the writing community and this is a fun and educational way to expand one's tools for thinking creatively and making great connections. I am always inspired when I see repeat attendees come and produce work that is greatly improved from the last workshop. When people are inspired they grow...so continue to find ways to feed the part of your soul that needs to grow as a writer. Read books for your self...read to others...write everyday...in a journal...in a blog...you can even write a card for someone you care about...but continue to grow. I had my first book signing at "As the Page Turns" in Northville yesterday. I was very touched by the people that came and brought their children. I had great conversations with people that led pretty inspiring lives themselves. I look forward to seeing more of the people that enjoy my book (s) and workshop at future signings. My next signing is in Grand Rapids at the Walden Books in Woodland Mall on Saturday December 20th. Please some out say hi and buy a book for someone that you care about and that you want to inspire.

Read something great! Inspire somebody special:)

It's never too late to be what you might have been. -George Eliot

How many times have you wondered when you were going to pursue a dream? Maybe you always dreamed of being a famous writer or had thoughts of one day moving to a big city...If you are reading this your time is not up. When I was a small child I liked being read to. I grew to be a child who enjoyed reading and ultimately someone who wrote stories and poems all day long. In high school math class you might find me appearing to pay attention while I filled a spiral bound notebook with poems. My favorite days were looking out of the window and letting my pen fill in the lines on my note page with the ideas of my mind.

I grew up. I went worked full-time. I received my Bachelor of Arts college degree in Journalism and Public Relations. It was my time to fulfill my dreams and become a writer. However, I received a job offer from a well-known company and took a job as a media buyer. I told myself that media was related to writing so it was ok to settle for this career...I still talked to newspapers...right? Wrong! This was not my dream...I worked very hard and made a decent living but my inner-self longed to write! I began my project of becoming "Who I am" (A children's book writer). Things were going great with my progress and suddenly an opportunity presented itself for a career change for me. I decided to try out Human Resources...made sense...right? Human Resources was not writing but I am a person that loves to talk and this helped me to feed the social aspect of my being. Great! Human Resources...Sure!? Why not. I had fun. I met wonderful people. I honed in on my interviewing skills...already partially developed from Journalism (just different because this was not for newsworthy purposes). Fantastic...I told myself. I am helping people to discover their dreams, I thought. I am making a difference. I get to travel to colleges and help people find internships and learn more about starting their careers. I worked extremely hard and was a great fit for my department. I came up with new processes and perfected our annual event. I was proud of myself.

I was not making the money that I desired but I was doing a great job...and then came Janelle. Janelle is my main character in "Who I am not what I am" (my first book). I developed this lovable character and introduced her to the world through my book. Children at my book signings loved her. Teachers said she was a great role-model. They wanted me to come to their schools and talk about self-esteem and the importance of diversity. Wow! This seemed like my dream. I was confused hadn't I settled on a job in Human Resources? The opportunities continued to flow in. "Please come visit our school and speak to our kids" The teachers said. "We would love for you to come to our summer reading program" the librarians claimed. "When is your next book coming out?" the children said.

My job was getting in the way of my destiny and so I quit. I became my destiny. I listened to the longing in my heart and took control of my career and my life. I became me.

Writing is "Who I am". Who are you? Are you pursuing it? You only get one chance. It's never too late. If you're dream is to develop your writing skills and/or to become published, I'd love to see you at my Creative Writing Workshop on this Saturday from 10-12. Novi Public Library. I am also signing books at "As the Page Turns", Northville, MI. 48167.

Read something good...write something better and dream something that will come true!

-Tara Michener

IF YOU HAVE A LOSS OF WORDS.....

If you have a loss of words...I'm inviting you to come and find them at my Creative Writing Workshop, Weekend Edition! This Saturday at the Novi Public Library meet like-minded people who want to improve their writing skills. This event will be perfect for those who want to network, sharpen their writing ability, learn writing block busters and who have dreams of one day being published. This workshop is open to the beginner and advanced writer. I hope to see you Saturday 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. The best part about these events is that....by the end of the day ... great works unfold from each participant. The cost is $15/person. Also I'd love to see you Downtown Northville on Saturday from 2-4. As The Page Turns is a book shop that will be featuring me reading my book "Who I am not what I am" and I'll be signing copies for those who are interested. Have a great weekend and make some time to write something good:)

Tara

WHAT ARE YOU KNOWN FOR?

Hi Readers,

I've been thinking about the way that people describe others. Have you ever met someone that tried to get you to remember a friend? They may have said (the one with the red hair....or the girl with braces) Does that sound familiar? I have been described as the dark skinned girl, the girl with the long hair, the one with crooked teeth (before my braces). What defines you? Is it other people's descriptions? Is it your actions? both? It's up to you. I think that the best way that I heard someone describe me is by saying the really nice young lady with the big smile. My hope is that through my books, my smile and my words I can make the world a better place. I'd like to be known as the one that says "Hi" to everybody....the one that smiles at strangers...the girl who is never mean. I'm not perfect and I don't want this description to ever be used in regards to who I am. Even though I'm not perfect I believe that I can make the world a more perfect place by being kind and by being friendly to those that I encounter. Have you thought about the way that people categorize you? It is so important to remember that everyday we create our own definition of who we are. My book is about Janelle, a young girl who has a hard time when her peers try to put her in a classification based on race. Her parents remind her that she's special, blessed and a kid who loves to talk. If you'd like a bonus writing exercise today...try writing a paragraph on how people see you and then write a paragraph on who you really are. Compare them...do they match? I hope to see you at my Creative Writing Workshop Sat 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Novi Public Library....or the same day at "As the Page Turns" Northville, MI from 2-4.

Read something good...try & write something better:)

ASPIRING WRITERS.....WHAT HAVE YOU WRITTEN TODAY?

Hi Readers & Writers,
I am able to meet many people who have dreams to pursue their writing on a deeper level. If you are one of them....I want to encourage you to journal daily:) The best advice I can give you is to carry a notebook around with you. A story may be down the street from you or it may suprise you and appear while you are at the cafeteria table. I find it funny that ideas and story prompts visit me in the most unpredictable places. I have been inspired to write sometimes before I am even out of bed and many times a good story idea will keep me up at night before I can sleep. Being prepared makes you 50 percent more likely to write a good story. The best way any writer can be ready for the idea when it comes is to have a notebook and pen handy!
I hope this helps you with your dreams!
Write something good!

Tara

Wrapping Up NY and more!

Hi Readers,

Thanks for visiting my blog. Yesterday was my 1st signing in NY! I had a great time and met wonderful people. The staff at Borders Express was great and very grateful that all of my books sold out. When I go on book signings I get most of the credit for everything. I wanted to take this time and recognize my only employee and most faithful friend on earth. My husband Jason is such a trooper. He posts flyers, drives me around (a lot!) and gets me coffee, Diet coke and more while I am sitting at the signing table. He has a great attitude and is a very creative thinker. Many people stop by and congratulate me on being an author and for doing a great job with booking events, etc. The truth is that without him I would not be as successful so I want to publicly thank him for his help! Do you have someone in your life that helps you hold it together? A teacher? Mentor? Parent? Tell them!

People love to hear that they are making a difference. Speaking of making a difference... if you have plans or dreams to do this with your writing please stop by on the 13th of December and attend my Creative writing workshop. We will cover timed exercises, writer's block busters, open critiques, how to get published and the best venues for your work! I'd love to see you...it's on Saturday at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. and the cost is $15. Also on that Saturday I will be signing copies of my book at a bookstore in Northville "As The Page Turns" from 2-4. I'd love to meet you and help you treat someone special to the gift of Janelle and her story for the holidays.

Today I am heading into Manhattan and meeting some friends and family. I hope that you spend your day with special people! Don't forget to tell them if they have made a difference in your life!

Read something good and have a great day:)

Tara Michener

EVENTS TO COME...........

* December 4th Madonna University Library @ 1 p.m.
* December 6th Staten Island Mall, Borders Express @ 12-2 p.m.
* December 13th Creative Writing Workshop, Novi Public Library $15/person 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
* December 13th As the Page Turns, Northville 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.
*December 17th Holiday Bazaar Mezza/Novi 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
*December 20th Grand Rapids, Walden Books/Woodland Mall 12-2 p.m.

Readers!
I wanted to update you on the rest of the events for the year! Please add to your calendar & bring someone to one of these fun & fulfilling events!

Tara Michener

What is the most important?

Hi Readers,

I was thinking about this time of year and what is really important. During this time of year it is so easy to get caught up in the shopping, the cooking, the tasting and the debt. The true meaning of the holidays is not to run up our credit card bills and defer the pain until January. This is a time when we can reflect on our lives and be grateful for all of the special people that are in our hearts. I love to take this time and let those that I care about know what they mean to me. I may do this with a gift as a token. It is important that the gifts that we give are simply that.... a token of appreciation or love not the main focus. Gifts come in all sizes, shapes, price ranges and colors. Baking cookies is a great way to share love and show someone that you care while watching your wallet and using creativity. Handwritten notes can mean more than store bought cards if the sentiment is from the heart. This season is also great to give the gift of self-esteem & diversity to a child. "Who I am not what I am" is a book that I wrote to help children accept others and themselves. This book is a great way to teach children that the true value of any person is beyond what people see and more about what treasures lie on the inside. I will be signing books at Madonna University Thursday @ 1 p.m. in the Library. I will also be in NYC this Saturday signing books at Borders Express in Staten Island! The times for that event are from 12-2. I hope to see you and remember that no matter what gift you give it is important to remember that the true gift is the person who you care for.

Read something good!!

Tara Michener

Lots of Fun at Biggby... next stop my Alma Mater!

Readers,

It was great to see many of you at Biggby Coffee yesterday for the Storytime & signing event. Lots of kids colored their own interpretation of Janelle (the main character of "Who I am not what I am"). I will be posting those photos on this blog in the near future. Some people added glasses to the sketch of Janelle and others gave her blond hair. I had lots of fun with this activity because everyone gave a unique quality to Janelle. This emphasizes the fact that the world is full of great people who all have different qualities. At the end of the event the wall was covered with the same photo but all of them were unique. I hope that this blog reinforces that being different from others is normal and it is ok if you are the only one in your class with glasses or braces. It's also fine if you don't have the newest clothes or the most friends. What is truly important is your attitude and the way you treat people and yourself. Being kind to others is a quality that makes you more attractive than a complete makeover from a well-known store. Loving yourself is great because you are special and you should be proud of that.

If you were not able to make this event my next stop is Madonna University for a special author event. I will be in their library on December 4th at 1 p.m. signing books and talking about my career and why I wrote the story of Janelle and "Who I am not what I am". I will also be in NYC this weekend at the Staten Island Mall on Sat from 12-2 at Borders Express! My first Book signing in NYC! I hope that you can make it and if you have contacts in that area please share this blog with them.

If you are an aspiring writer or a person who just likes to write ...join me on December 13th at the Novi Public Library from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.! I will be faciliatting a Creative Writing Workshop. Cost is $15 per person. Email me at whoiamnotwhatiam@yahoo.com for details. Here is a bonus writing exercise for today: Write a poem using all of the unique qualities that you possess. Feel free to share them on this blog if you like!

Read something good!

Tara Michener