The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Magazine

Mirrored Images by Rosanne Catalano book cover found!

2012-01-23T15:33:00.000-08:00

Hi, although my book's cover photo was lost for a while, I preserved and it was found. So now I am just experimenting with being able to once again upload it (what I'm speaking of is below) ....

Yes my book's cover photo was lost for a while but I preserved and it was found :) Will write more when I have completed my January magazine.

~Rosanne
Owner / Publisher / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Magazine
Mirrored Images by Rosanne Catalano
http://www.thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.com/
www.facebook.com/catsmeowfor
www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano
www.twitter.com/rckayla

Coming Soon!

2011-10-26T06:09:00.000-07:00

Coming Soon! - WAE Network

I signed up for this upcoming social media network, and I'm now sharing this with you so that you, too, can take advantage of this great opportunity today!

~Rosanne
Founder / Publisher / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Magazine
http://www.thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.com/
NEW! www.facebook.com/catsmeowfor

New Website!

2010-09-20T09:52:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear readers :)

I'm so sorry my exciting news is quite late but I've been busy over the summer .... Me and The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers magazine have a new "home" base! Our new "home" is at:

http://www.thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.com

Please do check out the new "home" for my published writing and my creation, The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers!!

There is now also a direct link to subscribe to Storytime Tapestry, my magazine's sister publication, on the "Helpful Links for You" page of our new home:

http://www.thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.com/helpful-links-for-you.html

Enjoy the new website! And happy reading :)

~Rosanne
Founder / Publisher / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers, an
Internet literary magazine
www.thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.com

Connect with Rosanne on:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano
Twitter: www.twitter.com/rckayla
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rosannecatalano
AuthorsDen: www.authorsden.com/rosannecatalano
MySpace: www.myspace.com/rcatalano

The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Now Online!

2010-04-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

My dear readers,
I am happy to report that The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers is back and online at: http://www.rosannecatalano.net/Apr10.htm

Next month's issue will be uploaded to my web site by little 'ole me :) Yes, I gained a brand new hard drive in my old computer but I lost my webmistress and assistant. It's okay though, she is only leaving due to her life going in a different direction now.

Although I will miss my assistant a lot, she's happy and very content which is all that matters. However, she will be showing me the ropes so to speak before she stops working for me and my web site. Have to admit that I am scared and excited all at the same time to upload my own magazine to my site - I have never done it before and I don't know web design (although I do know how to design ads for companies, web design is not the same thing!) So this is a whole new endeavor for me :)

And I do hope my loyal readers will bear with me while I work to improve The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers, learn web design and coding commands, all while going it alone. Have a wonderful weekend and don't forget to get outside and enjoy the sunny weather (if you're having sunny, hot weather this weekend where you live)...

~Rosanne
Founder / Publisher / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers magazine
Website: http://www.rosannecatalano.net/
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano
MySpace page: www.myspace.com/rcatalano
LinkedIn page: www.linkedin.com/in/rosannecatalano
AuthorsDen page: www.authorsden.com/rosannecatalano

Concerning The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers

2010-03-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

Hello my dear readers!
It pains me to have to write this to you, but there was major damage done to my computer sometime in January; malicious viruses and spyware were put onto it causing the hard drive to crash and die. I was no longer able to get into my email system or on my desktop.

AND I lost all of my data, some pictures and music! Unfortunately, I had not done a back-up in over a year -- a big no-no so shame on me for not backing up my important documentation!

As you know, I had begun working on the January 2010 issue of The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers. Well, that issue disappeared as did the magazine's template. So now I am forced to put The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers on hold temporarily while I work to re-create ALL of my documentation. Doing this breaks my heart but I have no choice.

On a more optimistic note, I am happy to inform you that my repairman put a brand new hard drive in and the computer has been born again!

So stay tuned for the next issue as soon as I'm done re-creating the magazine! All subscribers will be notified via email when a new issue of The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers is online once again.

Thank you for your continued support, and patience in this unfortunate matter :)

Rosanne Catalano, aka R.C.Kayla
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers
Web site: http://www.rosannecatalano.net/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano
MySpace: www.myspace.com/rcatalano
AuthorsDen: www.authorsden.com/rosannecatalano

The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Is Online!

2010-01-21T06:52:00.001-08:00

Oh my, sorry dear readers that I did not let you know that The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers' December issue is online!

Although last month we did notify all 4,000 of our subscribers via email, I neglected to tell you here. For that I profusely apologize!

The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers December 2009 Magazine can be read by clicking below:

http://www.rosannecatalano.net/Dec09.htm

I am currently working on the January 2010 issue of The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers. So stay tuned for notification when it is actually online!

Another thing I profusely apologize for is that I also neglected to inform you that this blog - and the blog of many other writers, authors, editors, publishers, business & writing coaches, etc., whom I am following - is now connected to my Facebook page through "NetworkedBlogs", which is located on my Facebook page's 'Wall'. To check it out, just click on the link below:

Rosanne's Facebook page (where "NetworkedBlogs" is located):

http://www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano

Facebook is a wonderful web site, where I'm not only networking with my professional friends on there but also my high school friends from years ago! Although I attended John F. Kennedy High School in Plainview, LI, until my junior year - when my family moved out of Plainview and into Mineola, LI - I graduated from Mineola High School in Garden City Park, LI, in June 1977 so that is 'years ago' lol.

Facebook is truly a GREAT way to stay in touch with old friends and new :) And I thank the owners of facebook for creating a fantastic site! I also thank the owner of the application "NetworkedBlogs" for creating an app. where writers of blogs can share their words with friends and fans on facebook!! Oh my, I forgot to also thank the owners of Blogspot.com for allowing us to share our blogs on facebook through "NetworkedBlogs"!!!

Last but not least, I thank you, my dear readers, for your continued support in reading my blog, our magazine, my books, and my published writings. And I pray that you will have a happy, healthy and prosperous 2010!!

Happy New Year!!!!

Rosanne C.
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers, an
Internet literary magazine: www.rosannecatalano.net
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rosannecatalano
MySpace: www.myspace.com/rcatalano
AssociatedContent: www.associatedcontent.com/user/9206/rckayla.html

Our "Comeback" Issue Is Online!

2009-11-20T11:13:00.000-08:00

The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers magazine is back!!!

Yes you read that right :) With our October/November 2009 magazine issue, we have returned to publishing The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers. Only now the magazine will be every other month rather than monthly.

It feels great to be back publishing!

While The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers was on a brief hiatus, however, I wrote more in my upcoming book although the book is still not ready for publication. I'll let you know as soon as it becomes available for you to purchase!

In the meantime, do check out The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers' "comeback issue" at www.rosannecatalano.net/OctNov09.htm

Enjoy my October/November '09 magazine, and Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Rosanne
Publisher/Editor/Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers, an
Internet literary magazine; www.rosannecatalano.net
On Sale: Mirrored Images by Rosanne Catalano
Where to Purchase: www.rosannecatalano.net
Facebook www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano
MySpace www.myspace.com/rcatalano
Linked In www.linkedin.com/in/rosannecatalano
Associated Content www.associatedcontent.com/user/9206/rckayla.html
Authors Den www.authorsden.com/rosannecatalano

The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers

2009-09-03T17:02:00.000-07:00

My dear readers,

Although I wrote in my last entry (below) that The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers magazine would return with its AUGUST 2009 issue, I am sorry to inform you that since August 1st I have been on a much-needed vacation after 3 years without taking one.

So now my magazine will be back online after OCTOBER 1st, 2009. And I will definitely notify you once the webmistress, and my assistant, has uploaded The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers to my site in October.

I have to say that 2009 has truly been an interesting and crazy year so far -- with some bad things happening and some good.

One of the good things was my husband & I adopting a Shih Tzu dog after years of having only our cats Tiger, Smokey and Cordy. The bad thing was our cat Tiger dying January 15th at 11 years, 10 months old. However, although our Tiger is gone eight months now, our Smokey six years, we still think of both of them every single day despite loving our new dog Nikko and our remaining cat Cordy very much.
Right now I'm looking forward to once again publishing my magazine, The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers, which I'll start working on the last two weeks of this month! Until my magazine's return, enjoy what remains of this warm weather as much as my husband, our 'babies' and I are.

~Rosanne Catalano
Publisher/Editor/Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers, an Internet literary magazine
Website: http://www.rosannecatalano.net/
Blog: http://thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.blogspot.com/
MySpace: www.myspace.com/rcatalano
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rosanne.catalano
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rosannecatalano
AuthorsDen: www.authorsden.com/rosannecatalano

The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Is On A Brief Hiatus

2009-06-15T22:27:00.001-07:00

First I'd like to say that it looks like my 51st birthday wish to raise funds for The Animal Rescue Site was somewhat of a bust although not a total one ... hence the reason I have officially stopped celebrating my birthday. But I will fundraise for this worthwhile cause next year! So I thank everyone who did donate or checked out my birthday wish cause, The Animal Rescue Site. Not raising as much money for The Animal Rescue Site as I would have liked is fine because I know things in life don't always work out like we planned or would like them to. I still contribute to this cause by clicking every day on their site's purple button to help God's little creatures.

Second, if you don't already know that The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers has been on a brief hiatus for the months of March, April, May, June and July, I am informing you here. Our brief hiatus is due to extensive technical problems with my computer, my website and the actual magazine's ability to be uploaded to my site. My assistant, Nancy, and I are working on resolving these technical issues with my magazine. And we will definitely be back in August 2009!

Also, I promise that upon our return I will try to write more on here. So please stay tuned for the AUGUST 2009 issue of The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers! Thank you my dear readers for your patience and understanding in this matter.

Rosanne Catalano
Publisher / Editor/ Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers E-zine TM
an Internet based literary magazine
Website: http://www.rosannecatalano.net/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Rosanne-Catalano/692839904
MySpace: www.myspace.com/rcatalano

A publisher's Birthday Wish for a worthy cause!

2009-06-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers:

Although Rosanne Catalano, the publisher & editor of The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers, is still on hiatus she is requesting, for the first time in our magazine's 5 year history, your help in fulfilling a birthday wish she recently made!

Her birthday wish is to raise at least $51.00 (her upcoming age) to help the vulnerable members of our society, our animal companions. We realize times are rough for everybody financially, however, you can also sign up at The Animal Rescue Site to click for 'free' everyday to help a rescued shelter animal; the site's corporate sponsors fund every 'free' click. But let's try to fulfill Rosanne's birthday wish to raise $51.00 for this worthwhile cause!

Please go to the link below today, and thank you one and all:

http://apps.facebook.com/causes/birthdays/79953?m=e0bc6388

The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers E-zine TM
an Internet based literary magazine
Website: www.rosannecatalano.net
Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Rosanne-Catalano/692839904
MySpace: www.myspace.com/rcatalano
Blog: thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.blogspot.com

Happy 4th of July America!

2008-07-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

With all the fireworks, barbecues and other celebrations going on, are we forgetting that today, July 4, 2008, America is 232 years old? Something to think about while you're enjoying the fireworks... 232 years ago The United States of America was born as a Nation where all can be free of tyranny.

Also this year, The United States of America has come a looong way politically. I say, "yay it's about time that, for the first time in our country's history, an African American is running for the toughest job!" What will be even more of a milestone for America is when a "woman" becomes President of this great country. That day will come eventually. I just hope I live long enough to see a woman as the United States of America's President; 2008 just wasn't that year. However, an African American "man" running for the toughest job is wonderful too, and I applaud Barack Obama for taking a bold step for all Americans! I just pray he lives up to his promises for "change."

On another note, I wanted to discuss something that may be controversial but has upset me for some time...

That is: I'd like to know why some women parade around nude, or semi-naked, on the internet??? Did these women ever hear the saying, "Leave a lot to the man's imagination..."?!?
The reason I'm bringing this controversial subject up is because I have been getting a lot of 'friend requests' on my MySpace page; where these women have no shame or modesty -- showing me their boobs, rear ends and other things I do not want to see. Yet I do state on my MySpace page that I am married and heterosexual. Can they NOT read English? Don't get me wrong, I am definitely not a prude by any stretch of the imagination. Nor am I that religious; I do believe, and have Faith, in Jesus Christ and our heavenly Father but I do not attend church. Sorry I digress...

To continue -- Of course I always reject these womens' friend requests, because I feel women have a lot more to offer this world than just their nakedness. And it does bother me that the women's parents did not teach them to have pride in their own bodies. Yes, I blame the parents! For not teaching their daughters empowerment, and right from wrong. It is WRONG to parade around naked in front of strange men and women. Simple as that. I feel that only your husband or wife should see your uncovered body.

I love America -- the land of the free and brave, however, as an American, I have the 'right' to not want to see or be friends with women who are that stupid they don't leave anything to a man's imagination! What they do have is no brains or morality. I created a MySpace page to network with others in my writing & publishing profession.

Not to network, or be friends, with stupid and silly bimbos who show ALL to the world; whether or not they know or love the people. I guess those particular women have only their bodies and faces to offer, and nothing more, since they don't seem to have any pride whatsoever. My friends take pride in their own empowerment as a human being not a bunch of body parts. Enough said.

Thank you for listening to my vent today. HAPPY 232nd BIRTHDAY AMERICA; may our great country have many, many more happy birthdays!

Rosanne C.
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, an
internet-based magazine;
Now On Sale: Mirrored Images by Rosanne Catalano
website www.rosannecatalano.net

Recent College Shooting A Tragedy!

2008-02-15T15:11:00.000-08:00

I was so saddened to hear and read about the recent shooting at Northern Illionis University. My heartfelt condolences go out to the victims and their families...

And this is why I say that now, not tomorrow, is the time mental illness gets talked about, and discussed, on college campuses all over the world to prevent another one of these tragic shootings!

If a person had a noticably visibile illness such as a physical one, it would be talked about and discussed by the medical profession and general public, so why not an invisibile one that is a chemical imbalance in the sufferer's brain???

A great place to go for more information about mental illness is the NAMI.org web site!

NAMI provides wonderful and knowledegable information on, and about, mental illnesses and their symptoms, and much more! NAMI is also a place a person can go to for help & resources if they suspect they're suffering with a mental illness or they've already been diagnosed with a mental illness.

NAMI also has knowledegable guest bloggers who are sometimes celebrities that suffer with mental illness (one recent guest blogger was the actress Patty Duke, and it was very interesting what she wrote on NAMI's blog)!

For those interested in more knowledge and info on mental illnesses, NAMI's link is: http://www.nami.org/. Oh my, I forgot to tell you what NAMI's initials stand for...they stand for National Alliance for the Mentally Ill [NAMI]. And yes, I'm also an advocate for the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill along with all my other advocacy work I quietly do.

Knowledge and information has the power to prevent another tragedy like the Northern Illinois University killings! So why not go to NAMI's web site today, and see it for yourself.

Rosanne Catalano
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine TM
Now On Sale: Mirrored Images by Rosanne Catalano
http://www.rosannecatalano.net/

Tragic and Sad that Heath Ledger Died So Young

2008-01-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

Although I only saw Heath Ledger's movie Brokeback Mountain, I was truly saddened to read about this young actor's death on January 22nd of this year. 28 years old is way too young to die!

From what I saw of his acting in the movie Brokeback Mountain, Heath truly had a great talent to become the character he was portraying. I'm only sorry that his recent role of "The Joker" in the upcoming Batman movie drained and exhausted him to the point he could not sleep. However, it is understandable.

Playing the role of a psychopathic, murderous and evil person with no empathy whatsoever had to have been very hard to do when you're a lovingly kind person like Heath! But I'm sure he was able to portray the role as well as he did that of a gay cowboy. Though I have to admit, I can't wait to see the new Batman movie this coming July 18th! I'm sure Heath's last acting job will not disappoint his many fans.

Now my condolences go out to Heath Ledger's entire family...
For Heath was a loving son, brother and father (to Matilda) first and foremost which defined the human being he was more so than his work ever could. A loving and kind human being like Heath Ledger will never be forgotten.

Rest In Peace Heath.

A fan,
Rosanne Catalano
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine TM
Now On Sale: Mirrored Images by Rosanne Catalano
http://www.rosannecatalano.net/

Happy New Year Everyone!

2008-01-04T12:56:00.000-08:00

WELCOME TO 2008!
I pray you had a happy Holiday season, and that your New Year brings peace, happiness, love, good health and lots of prosperity! Now I have to vent about something...

What I'm going to say may sound ungrateful to some but not all; some would understand. Although I thank God that my husband and I were able to spend time with our families during Christmas and New Year's, I was very hurt that not one member of my family gave me gifts that had to do with my interests -- reading, writing and publishing. The Christmas presents I did receive had to do with music or clothes.

Now you're probably saying, "At least you got gifts! There are children and people in this world who did not get anything, or who didn't even have a holiday to speak of..." I do realize, and know very well, that there are people less fortunate than I.

But I am only human so I was extremely hurt that my Christmas gifts were meant more for someone else rather than me. Especially that all year long I was telling my husband (and my mom) exactly what I wanted. So please remember that when buying presents for someone other than yourself, we must think of what the gift-recipient would like or love rather than what we ourselves would like.

The one great thing about Christmas this year that I do not have to vent about is that my hubby and I were sooo happy to be with our loved one's! It is always special when we see our families, and we cherish the times spent with them.

However, what should we do if we have received Christmas presents from loved ones and friends that we either did not like or had nothing to do what we love? I finally decided what the most practical solution to this dilemna is --
Go out and purchase gifts for ourselves that's what we do!

Or, if you're like some I've been reading about on eBay, we can sell them to someone else. Personally, though, I think it is truly tacky to sell Christmas presents given to us on eBay. A better solution is to either buy ourselves what we really wanted or re-wrap those gifts and give them to someone you know will love them as much as you hated them. If you have a different solution to this problem, I'd love to hear from you! Thanks for listening to my vent...

Oh my, I forgot to tell you that as soon as I realized I can always go out and buy myself what I truly wanted, I wasn't as hurt anymore. However, I do still wish that my loved one's had remembered my interests and purchased Christmas gifts accordingly. Maybe next year they will? That would be nice. But I sure am not waiting until next Christmas to get what I want :)

Sorry I have to get back to work now...besides working on my January 10th magazine issue just now, I'm also in the middle of writing more in my third book. For the first time ever I made a New Year's Resolution for 2008. And that is to finally finish my fiction novel and get it published and and in your hands this year! So stay tuned for further developments with my upcoming book...

Again, Happy New Year! I pray that it is a great year for you.

Rosanne Catalano
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine TM
Now On Sale: Mirrored Images by Rosanne Catalano
www.rosannecatalano.net

Mystery at Shatick Estate by Rosanne Catalano Published on Storytime Tapestry!

2007-11-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

Hi Dear Readers,
now that October 2007 has come & gone, my author interview is no longer being featured on Tannia Ortiz-Lopes' "Time With Tannia" web site.

But it can now be read on my web site at http://www.rosannecatalano.net/!
To read the interview Tannia did with me, go to the right-hand side of my web site's Home page, where you will then see the green text "Author Interview with Rosanne Catalano." Just click on that link, and it should come out in a PDF formatted document. But you must have the Adobe Acrobat 'Reader' version in order to read my interview.

I have other good news since telling you of my interview with Tannia...
A mystery story I wrote titled "Mystery at Shatick Estate," which was submitted for publisher Carol Roach's Halloween Contest, is published in "Storytime Tapestry's" November 3rd, 2007 edition! Yay!

"Mystery at Shatick Estate" can now be read in Storytime Tapestry's Archives at http://archives.zinester.com/98907. However, the winners of "Storytime Tapestry's" Halloween Contest will be announced by Carol Roach soon. Afterward, the writers who won and their winning poems & stories will be published in my December 10th, 2007 magazine.

I'm very excited about my upcoming December 10th magazine issue!
The reason is that I changed the background color to match the Christmas and Holiday spirit, and it is my magazine's Three-Year-Anniversary Edition! Yes, I have been publishing "The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine," a progressive Internet-based magazine, for 3 YEARS so far! And I plan to continue publishing my magazine for many years to come :) But the Anniversary & Christmas Edition is coming out sooo great, I can't wait for my subscribers to read the December 10th, 2007 magazine!

I am also busily working on finishing up my third book!
This time my book is a fiction novel rather than a collection of my poems, non-fiction and fiction stories. I don't know when it will be ready for publication. But I'm praying for it to be published before the end of next year. If only I had more time in a day to do all I need and want to do! Especially since writing a fiction story takes more of my imagination and concentration than writing non-fiction stories do.

Sorry, have to go now. Before I sign off though, I want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas, and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Rosanne Catalano, (aka R.C.Kayla)
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat’s Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine TM
CHECK OUT ROSANNE'S LATEST BOOK, MIRRORED IMAGES,
AT http://www.rosannecatalano.net/ or at Lulu Press!

Excerpt from "Mirrored Images" by Rosanne Catalano

2007-10-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hello dear readers,

Below I am bringing you an excerpt of my book "Mirrored Images" for your reading pleasure...

Mirrored Images

A Book of Short Stories and Poetry

BY ROSANNE CATALANO

(aka R.C.Kayla)

DEDICATED TO MY LATE DAD AND MY MOM

On October 13, 2005 I got the worst news any child can get...my dad passed away after a month and a half in the hospital fighting asbestos lung cancer.

I had been at his hospital bedside practically all day and night that month and a half. But this story and the way my father was treated in that hospital is another story for another time.

Today I would like to tell you why I'm starting off with a poem I wrote in dedication to my dad. Although he was a child-like father to my brother, sister and I, I will always love him unconditionally and truly wanted him to stay here on earth. But our Creator said it was time for my dad to join his brothers and sisters who went before. I am consoled by the fact he is no longer in any pain or discomfort due to the many health crises he suffered over the years after his first heart attack at the age of 52. He lived to the ripe old age of 81 years and, in spite of his poor health, lived a good life and always encouraged my love of writing. And, although my mom is still alive (thank you God!) she too encouraged my passion for writing. So, it is to both my late daddy and my mom that I dedicate my second book...

DEAR DAD
(c.) June 2006 Rosanne Catalano

On Father's Day I want to tell you
How much you mean to me
When you took me by the hand,
Oh how I loved you so
A little girl I was...

You took me in your arms
For the first dance with your daughter
And even though you directed me
A young woman I was...

I took you in my arms
Told you I loved you
Not knowing it would be the last time
You heard those words
An adult woman I am...

Though I always told you I love you,
I may not have told you of all the wonderful memories
Of growing up with you as my dad
Memories that continue to flood my mind
I remember the fun things you did
with your children --
my brother, sister and I.

The rollercoaster ride in your little Corvair
that made all three of us scream with delight
while going up and down those hills you drove upon
Telling us kids not to be afraid that you were, after all, a bus driver
and the safest driver around ... what fun that day turned out to be!
Now just memories of the little boy you never got to be
in that orphanage you grew into manhood in,
but were for us three.

I still miss thee and wish our Father above
hadn't called you home with
your brothers and sisters who went before.
I love you forever and ever more
and my heart is still breaking so...
and that is why I dedicate this book to you
Happy First Father's Day in heaven, Dad.

SPLIT MOMENT IN TIME
(c.) 2006 Rosanne Catalano

As she held tight to the steering wheel, the rays of the sun glinted off the windshield but she did not care; she continued to stare at the road ahead. She drove out of her hometown; not noticing the beauty all around. Her thoughts were on what had just happened at her job...

NOTE: There are a lot more (nonfiction and fiction) stories and another poem in my book "Mirrored Images". However, you may want to purchase the book at Lulu Press or on my web site's Home Page to read the rest of my fiction short stories, nonfiction story articles and poem in dedication to my late beloved grandmother.

Also stay tuned for my first fiction novel which I am currently working on. I'm excited about my forthcoming fiction novel! It will be a fictionalized, and a "what if her life had turned out differently?", account of the life of a homeless woman I once knew. My upcoming fiction novel will have my story characters encountering murder, a robbery, a strange looking dog who befriends them, and many other bad things happening to them before they open up a pet store and become a success story beyond their wildest dreams.

Please do stay tuned for "Mirrored Images [2]" or "Split Moment"... sorry readers, I have not finalized my decision on the title of my first fiction novel (my upcoming third book). So it is a toss-up between these two titles. But do enjoy reading my second book "Mirrored Images"; now on sale at my web site's Home Page and at Lulu Press' web site!

I must also tell you that on my author interview at Time With Tannia's web site, Tannia Ortiz-Lopes has an old description of my book "Mirrored Images". And therefore the amount of pages listed in my book's description is incorrect. Instead of 55 pages, "Mirrored Images" now has 71 pages as of August 2007. However, this is my fault for not realizing Tannia still had the original description of my book. If I had realized this, I would have definitely given Tannia Ortiz-Lopes the updated information. Sorry about that readers! But I do hope you enjoy reading "Mirrored Images" despite this error on my part...

God bless,
Rosanne Catalano, (aka R.C.Kayla)
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, an Internet-based magazine
Now On Sale: Mirrored Images (2007), a Book of stories and poetry
http://www.rosannecatalano.net/

Author Interview With Little 'Ole Me, Wow!

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

Hi dear readers,
Wow, Ms. Tannia Ortiz-Lopes is interviewing me! My author-interview is scheduled for next month and I'm ecstatic so I'd like to tell you all about my interview!

From October 1st - 31st, 2007, I will be the "Featured Author" on her Time With Tannia's website. Ms. Tannia Ortiz-Lopes, a published author herself, has on her website a section called "Featured Author" in which she highlights the achievements and accomplishments of different published authors every month. Tannia's website url, where my interview can be read the entire month of October, is: http://timewithtannia.tripod.com.

Let me tell you how my author-interview came about...
Tannia had read an author-interview that another publisher, Carol Roach, had done with me for the internet-based ezine Carol herself publishes daily called "Storytime Tapestry". And Tannia felt my interview with Carol was so interesting that she wrote to me, requesting she interview me for her own Time With Tannia website.

In the interview Tannia asks me questions about myself, my writing, my internet-based magazine "The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine", and my latest book Mirrored Images. As I said already, Mirrored Images is selling pretty well but could be selling better... I just don't have the time to advertise, market and promote my book as much as I should be doing. But from now on, I will try to make the time to do so.

I am very honored to be Tannia Ortiz-Lopes' "Featured Author" from October 1st - 31st, 2007! Tannia herself is a very talented writer and published author who resides in Germany with her husband and children. And I thank her for finding my life very interesting and wanting to interview me!

Come and check my interview out at Time With Tannia's website from October 1st to the 31st of 2007! I promise you won't be bored with the interview Tannia did of me. Hope to see you all there!

Rosanne Catalano
Publisher / Editor / Author
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine
Author: Mirrored Images (2007)
www.rosannecatalano.net

I'm Out of My Comfort Zone When Marketing My Book

2007-06-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like a child out of its comfort zone when learning something new?!

If so you are definitely not alone! That's how I feel now. And why I carry my cheering squad of author (and publisher) friends as I tell you about my 2nd book, "Mirrored Images". I say this because I am a writer before I am a publisher and editor.

Writers, at one time, were not taught how to market, promote and advertise their books... in the old days of publishing, a writer just wrote! That was it. Writing alone is very hard work. Never mind then going out to market, advertise and promote our books! The book publishing houses years ago were the ones who marketed, promoted and advertised for the writer.Things have changed in the publishing industry.

Now a writer must also know the business aspect of marketing, promoting and advertising their very own books. Yes, knowing the business aspect comes in handy if you are a freelance-writer. But most writers don't start out freelancing.

I know you're extremely busy so I'll tell you why I'm writing today :)

My latest book, "Mirrored Images", is selling very well but could be selling better if I had the time to market, promote and advertise more than just in my internet-based magazine! So come and take a look-see at my book if you enjoy reading very quick short stories and poems that will touch your heart. You've got nothing to lose by reading Mirrored Images for a quick pleasure fix!

Why do I say a quick pleasure fix?! Because it's only 71 pages! You'll be finished reading my book before you know it. But I must warn you... afterward you may say to yourself, "I want more stories!"

So come on and check out a book written by a lesser known author than those well known ones! Just click on any of the brown-colored "Mirrored Images" links in this post, and it'll take you to Lulu Press, my book's home away from home :) I stake my reputation on the fact that you will not be bored by reading my book. Thank you in advance for purchasing "Mirrored Images"!

Rosanne Catalano
Publisher / Author-Writer / Columnist
The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, an
internet-based magazine / Mirrored Images (2007)
Storytime Tapestry ezine / Wt~In Spirit Christian magazine
http://www.rosannecatalano.net

Not Cool to Discuss Certain Subjects

2007-05-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

I am writing during a spring storm as the rain tears are dancing on my window sill and I'm just waiting for a power surge to wreck havoc with the computer ... but before it does I have a quick question for my readers: who amongst us has regretted bringing up religion or politics?

If you raised your hands that you have regretted talking about either religion or politics, you're not alone! They are definitely two very touchy and controversial topics to discuss.

My advice is to change the subject whenever an ill-informed person brings up either religion or politics. A person could ask you something as innocent as: "so what religion are you?" No need to tell anyone but your close friends or family. Although of course your family would not ask that question because they are basically the same religion as you. Same goes for politics. If someone innocently asks you, "who're you voting for?" Don't tell them! Just say instead, "I prefer to keep my vote between me and the voting booth."

I found out the hard way it is much wiser to NOT talk about these two controversial subjects at all. Sometimes it's not wise to discuss them even with your own family! I pretty much have no regrets in my life, but discussing, debating and/or talking about religion or politics I have regreted.

Now if you would like to discuss advocacy work with other's, that is fine to do. That's a safe topic :) So long as it doesn't touch on political advocacy.

I truly wish this rain would cool everything off, so far it's still 86 degrees and extremely humid! I am trying real hard to not turn on the air conditioning during the day...new thing with my hubby and I is trying to "save" on electricity. Before I actually do get a power surge I'm signing off for now. Will talk more with you at a less frazzled time. Till then, please take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Rosanne
Publisher: The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, an
internet-based magazine, www.rosannecatalano.net;
Author: Mirrored Images (2007); Senior Writer: Storytime Tapestry ezine,
and Columnist: Wt~In Spirit Christian literary print-magazine.

Guess that wasn't a popular topic!

2007-04-16T15:59:00.000-07:00

Since no one made any comments about my Feb 10th posting, that means either it wasn't interesting or that porno was too controversial to comment upon. Of course I'm only guessing since I got no feedback whatsoever asking an innocent question of my readers... Oh well, life happens and we can't always know if we're writing about a subject that is of interest to our readers or not; without your feedback. So, today I'm writing about this scandal involving Imus in the Morning...how about that Don Imus?!?

Although I never listened to him, I know 77 million people did for over 30 years. It was very, very wrong what he said about the Rutgers University girls but Imus has always been as controversial as Howard Stern is and Andrew Dice Clay once was...anyone remember Andrew Dice Clay?

I didn't like Andrew Dice Clay either, but I know someone who loved him as much as those 77 million people loved listening to Don Imus. The only time that people stopped loving Andrew Dice Clay was when he cried in public, then the world thought of him as a sissy and stopped going to his shows. I'm not interjecting my personal opinion of these 3 men at all...but I will say that the radio station wasn't right to fire Don Imus; they should have given him "suspension without pay" as you would any employee before firing them after 30+ years.

A suspension without pay would have taught Imus in the Morning a lesson to keep his mouth shut from now on...but to fire him? I'm sorry, that wasn't right. Although I may not like him, or the other two controversial guys, millions of people around the world did. This scandal makes me afraid as a writer to say what I feel!! Whatever happened to Free Speech?!? Granted, Imus' 'speech' about those girls was downright mean and nasty, but in America he is entitled to say what he wants; whether we like it or not. That's called good 'ole Democracy. And, I for one, am fighting to get our right to free speech back...

Oh btw my dear readers, I sold another copy of "Mirrored Images", my second book, yay!!! At least this proves to me there are fans of my work out there, and I thank them very much for purchasing my book. And that's not even mentioning the many, many emails of praise and congratulations on doing an excellent job with my online magazine...thank you all!

Till next I get the time to come on here, have a blessed Spring!

Rosanne Catalano
Publisher: The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, an internet-based magazine, www.rosannecatalano.net; Author: Mirrored Images (2007); Senior Writer: Storytime Tapestry newsletter, and Columnist: Wt~In Spirit Christian literary print-magazine.

Have a Question...

2007-02-10T18:06:00.000-08:00

My hubby reminded me last night of the time when we first fell in love, 9 years ago, and were openly affectionate with one another to the point two of our former friends were embarrassed rather than being happy for us that we were in love.

Their embarrassment at us opening kissing and hugging (nothing more) is something I will never understand. Yet people can watch a porno movie and not be embarrassed about watching two or more people totally drugged out and having sex?! Getting paid to have sex no less! That doesn't embarrass anyone; yet mine and my hubby openly displaying our love for one another does embarrass??? I don't get it.

If anyone can explain to me why watching a couple fall in love embarrasses other people but watching a porno movie doesn't, I would love to understand this. Because I do not understand one bit!

And now I'm cooking supper before I go lay my head down for that much-needed rest my body is crying out for...all week have been fighting off a bad cold and fever. Yet I did manage to complete my February 10th magazine [Valentine's Day Special Edition issue] and work on my third book-in-progress, plus other story articles for publication elsewhere. I hate to say this, but I don't know where I get the strength to do all this...it has to be my passion for what I'm doing in writing & publishing! But in spite of how bad I'm feeling today, I was compelled to ask that question above; I truly don't understand why open displays of affection between a loving couple would embarrass other's...and yet watching porno movies does not embarrass other people! If you think I'm stupid or naive for not understanding "why" please do let me know lol. Thanks dear readers.

Rosanne
www.rosannecatalano.net
Publisher: The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, an online progressive magazine
Author: Mirrored Images [1] (2007), Touch of Tomorrow-In Loving Memory (2003) and numerous story articles published in print & online
Blog: thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.blogspot.com
Senior Writer: Storytime Tapestry newsletter
Columnist: Wt~In Spirit Christian Literary print-magazine.

Happy New Year Everyone

2007-01-08T20:15:00.000-08:00

Wow, so far this new year has turned out to be a good one! I've been just as busy as I was last year but I finally completed my 2nd book. It is titled Mirrored Images [1] and is available to purchase on my website! I managed to get my second book finished and published all while working on publishing my progressive-magazine. I also had two story articles published so far this year; Christmas with Grandma, a story article, was published in Storytime Tapestry newsletter and Midnight in the Morning, a short story, was accepted and published on Lit.org's website. And now I must concentrate on writing my 2nd column for Wt~In Spirit magazine. That deadline is February 1st so I've got to get my rear end moving here!

But now I'm exhausted so I'm signing off to get some much needed sleep; it truly has been a hectic month! Please don't forget to read the January 10th, 2007 issue of my magazine when it's online at www.rosannecatalano.net See you all next month ... till then, try to stay nice-n-warm during the cold blustery months here in the north, and have a wonderful January!

Rosanne
Publisher: The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, an online progressive-magazine
Author: Mirrored Images [1] (2007), Touch of Tomorrow-In Loving Memory (2003) and numerous story articles published in print & online, with more to come...
Blog: thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.blogspot.com
Columnist: Wt~In Spirit Christian Literary print-magazine.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!

2006-12-21T12:36:00.000-08:00

My dear friends, so sorry I haven't written anything on here in 2 months. I've been extremely busy with my magazine and, now, as a regular columnist for Wt~In Spirit, a print literary Magazine!

Although in between working our buns off, my husband and I did manage to sneak in a vacation & family visit to Florida last month for Thanksgiving :) We had a blast, and it was so wonderful seeing my mom, sister, brother-in-law and niece (who live in Florida)! I miss them already...

This is going to be much shorter than previous posts, have a lot of submissions for the January 2007 magazine coming in already. And I'm still in the process of writing my 2nd book (coming soon...), along with now being a regular columnist for Wt~In Spirit. I also continue to write short stories (nonfiction & fiction), poems and articles for other editors and publishers in print-editions and online!

Hope everyone has a very, very Merry Christmas (if you celebrate it), Happy Holidays (if you don't), and a healthy and prosperous New Year to come! May all your New Year goals come true!

See you all in 2007, and don't forget to visit my website and home of my magazine at: http://www.rosannecatalano.net. Also be sure to subscribe to Wt~In Spirit to read my new column and that of other great authors by going to http://www.wynter.ca, and asking for a subscription (Wt~In Spirit is a print-magazine ONLY). Thank you for the support!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2006-10-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

This month is a very important one for all. I'll tell you why...
In 1998 when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, the radiologist and her doctor told her that the cancer had begun spreading like the roots of a tree. But they caught the cancer in time! After my mom's diagnosis, she went for surgery (a lumpectomy and lymph node removal) and radiation treatment. No chemotherapy except for the tamoxifen pills for 5 years, which acted like chemo only in pill-form. She is now an 8-year-cancer-survivor thanks to a mammogram! And she is finally off the tamoxifen pills! Though I still worry about her. Because I know breast cancer, or any type of cancer, can re-occur. Luckily for us though, she still goes for her yearly mammograms to make sure her cancer does not come back ever. Early detection saved my mother's life. I know it can save your's or someones you love!

But what happens if a woman CANNOT AFFORD to get A MAMMOGRAM? What do they do? It's heartbreaking that some people cannot afford mammograms! This is why I'm asking you to please TELL 10 FRIENDS TO CLICK ON The Breast Cancer website at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/

Let me explain. I received an email from a dear friend in which it said that The Breast Cancer website is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of DONATING at least ONE FREE MAMMOGRAM A DAY to an underprivileged woman. So if you go to The Breast Cancer site it doesn't cost you a thing, but could SAVE A LIFE!

Also in this email, it said that The Breast Cancer website's corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to DONATE ONE FREE MAMMOGRAM in exchange for advertising. The more visitors The Breast Cancer site gets, the more their corporate sponsors and advertisers will make ONE PERSON feel like a million bucks by receiving a donation of a FREE MAMMOGRAM!

So won't you please help by taking a minute out of your busy day and clicking on their website? Here's the website again: http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/

LIKE MY DEAR FRIEND'S EMAIL SAID: "PLEASE TELL 10 FRIENDS TO TELL 10 TODAY AND FOR THE ENTIRE MONTH OF OCTOBER!" You just may save a life...

Thank you!

Rosanne Catalano
(a.k.a. R.C.Kayla)
Publisher: The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine (an online progressive magazine);http://www.rosannecatalano.net
Author: Touch of Tomorrow - In Loving Memory (book of poetry) and numerous short stories, poetry and articles published online & in print, with more to come... http://thecatsmeowforwritersreaders.blogspot.com
Senior Writer: Storytime Tapestry newsletter; http://subs.zinester.com/98907
COMING SOON: Columnist for Wt~In Spirit Literary Magazine; http://www.wynter.ca

Letters to the Publisher

2006-08-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

Hi all, I want to write about a letter I received last month. This letter wasn't from a reader of The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine; most of the letters I do receive from members & readers are congratulatory in tone. It was from a woman in response to something I had written on the Oprah.com message boards. The board asked what we thought in regards to Oprah defending her close friendship with Gayle King. Which, I personally, don't feel Oprah had to explain to anyone. That was kind of her to do anyway.

I wrote on Oprah's website that it doesn't matter whether Oprah and Gayle are having a relationship or not; that what does matter is that Oprah HELPS PEOPLE in need and therefore her sexual orientation truly does not matter. I tend to believe Oprah when she says she's 100% heterosexual and in a longtime relationship with her man Stedman Graham, and that her relationship with Gayle King is a close and longtime friendship. A kind of friendship I wish I had with my women friends! The bottom line is: it truly doesn't matter what celebrities do in their personal lives! But what does matter is that they give monetary aid to people in need, when they do give. I applaud those who do.

The woman writer who wrote in to me had this to say, "I read your comments on Oprah...did you know she gave NOTHING to help NY after 9/11? She said, and I will never forget it, 'I will write my check after I see where the money goes' which is smart to do...not to say as a celebrity...but that stuck with me about her...she gave nothing to help out in that disaster...but hey...Africa needs something, she is there! That didn't help her image at all. Just wanted to share this tidbit with you...yes she has done a lot...but she only helps certain people...I don't think that is ok...if other celebrities did that they would be called prejudiced." In response to her, I defended Oprah Winfrey. And in response of me defending Oprah, the writer wrote back, "I appreciate your response...but your comment about Hurricane Katrina was interesting...99% of the people she helped that were affected by it were 'minorities'...so out came her check book and the big publicity stunt."

My response to her after that? Hey who better to HELP minorities than Oprah Winfrey, a billionaire ten times over who has experienced poverty first-hand while she was growing up in Mississippi! As an "advocate" for animals and children, I strongly feel that minorities also need our help when we have enough money to give. Think about this: you're a millionaire (or, in Oprah's case, a billionaire) and want to give back to the people who need it since there were people who helped you on your climb to success. Makes sense, no? I think so. I'm glad Oprah Winfrey HELPS minorities and the African people! If I had the kind of money Oprah does, I too would give monetary aid to help people who need the aid the most! I also defend animals and children because they are the 'innocents' of this world and truly need our help. I do not belive Oprah is prejudice in giving her aid (as that woman writer felt...), more 'choosy' in whom she gives monetary aid to is my opinion. Let's face it, New York didn't need financial aid from celebrities after 9/11 but did need it from the federal government. As simple as that.

I understand why Oprah said that about seeing where the money is going first...a lot of celebrities were burned in the past by so-called charities giving to themselves & their staff rather than the people who needed the aid! Please, that's a fact about some charities -- they pay their staff and themselves first & foremost before giving to those who are in need of that very aid! Their GREEDINESS takes preference over helping the people their charities are supposed to help. That's why Oprah said what she said. And I agree with her.

As a non-celebrity, let's say I gave my hard-earned money to a charity that's supposed to help children, and then find out that the money I sent in went to the organization's staff rather than the children my money should have gone to? I would be upset with the CEO of that charity and never give them my money again! What makes people think Oprah's money wasn't as hard-earned as mine or your's is?! Of course her money was hard-earned! She works extremely hard for her TV show, the "O Magazine" and helping other people. It's a well known fact she gives generously to her staff; even pays for their vacations! And last but not least, let's not forget about her "Angel Network" which helps people of all races, not just minorities or Africans! Not to mention Oprah's "Book Club" in which she highlights new authors whose books have touched her.

Me thinks that woman who wrote into me is suffering from 'elitism.' She was obviously a white person who is mad with Oprah for giving to those who need our help more: minorities and the African people. A very sad commentary on the way people are today. Some refuse to give financial aid unless the people they are giving to have the same color skin, or religion, as them. Not the right thing to do at all! In the eyes of our Father in heaven, we are all the same... we are all His children whom He loves unconditionally.

Thank you for listening today. I had to get that off my shoulders; it upset me tremendously. That woman writer is entitled to her opinions, but to knock Oprah who does all she can for those in need?! I love all people (except for the greedy and unloving ones) and do not feel it was right that she went on to tell me (in her letter) that she refuses to watch Oprah's TV show now, because she feels Oprah is prejudice against white people. She's not...she has helped ALL PEOPLE, no matter what color or religion they are. If I'm wrong about this, please write in and let me know. But I don't think so. I say this because I've been watching Oprah's TV show since it's inception in 1986, and feel she gives a lot of financial aid to all of the people of this world. Back to the subject of sexual orientation: celebrities have a right to their private lives as much as we do. And should not have to explain and defend what they do behind closed doors so long as they entertain us in their movies, TV shows, etc.; for that is what they get paid to do, entertain us! BUT if they also want to 'help' with financial aid that's wonderful and shows what good hearts they do have. We are all ONE... the Human race.

Happy 4th of July America!

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

Happy Independence Day!

It has been way too long since last I wrote, I apologize for this. Have been extremely busy with life in general!

Came on here with lots of great ideas to write about but then my younger cat jumped into my lap, began to lick my hand (awww) and all those ideas went out the window...ADHD for you. Yep I have ADHD which stands for attention-deficit hyperactive disorder, but I like to call it a "disease"; disorder sounds so wrong. I've learned to deal with it but forget about distracting me...whenever my husband or two cats do this, I totally forget the task that needs to be done. So in this case instead I'll write about an article I recently read in a magazine and my opinion of it...

The article was writing about Tom Cruise, his girlfriend Katie Holmes and their baby daughter Suri. In this article, the writer was wondering "where's Suri? and why has she not been seen in public when all new parents' can't wait to show off their newborn???" I sure do not want to be sued for writing my personal opinion of what I think could be the reason why, but their actions remind me of a couple I knew about 22 yrs ago... This couple never, ever showed their newborn baby girl to any of their friends; people who had shared in their joy & happiness on their wedding day two years prior to her giving birth. Nor did she show off their baby to any of the women who attended her baby shower! Leading me to conclude something was very wrong with their child, and they were ashamed of whatever their baby's problem was. I say this because they would also hide behind their screened door when friends came to visit, never letting friends inside and so on.

Never did find out why they behaved this way...unhappy and secretive about anyone seeing their newborn daughter; no joy or happiness nor showing her off to the world as all new parents do!

It saddens me that this couple and I lost touch with one another once I moved out of upstate New York (Westchester county, to be precise) after my divorce, and they never knew how my heart went out to them. Instead of reaching out to their friends, they isolated themselves and held in their heartache at the sadness surrounding their daughter's birth. I'm sure that their families knew why but they never said a thing to 'friends'...

Why is it that some people become so secretive if something goes wrong and their baby is born with a problem?! This is extremely tragic. It should be brought out in the open, talked about to lessen the parent's sorrow and the stigma attached to being hid away as if she were a pariah, which will follow the child around for the rest of their life! Bringing awareness of whatever the child's problem is would have been a better alternative for that couple.

Too bad they didn't follow another couple I knew and their example. This other couple handled their baby girl's disability so much better... the couple's daughter was born with a type of Palsy yet they showed their newborn off to the world, their friends and family. And treated their little girl like you would a normal child, except the mother would acknowledge that her daughter was a "special needs" child and therefore needed more attention than her older son. I thought it was wonderful that this little girl wasn't hid away from the world due to her medical diagnosis of Palsy, and wish the other couple I once knew had done the same.

I often wonder what happened with that one couple and their child... questions that will never be answered since we all lost touch. Whether a child is born with Autism, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy, Mental Retardation, or any number of diseases & birth defects the child should never, ever be hid away from the world! I sure hope I am wrong about why I think Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes have not been showing Suri off to the entire world -- for their sakes! -- but if it is the reason, they should not be ashamed of the problem because their celebrity status could even bring further awareness to whatever the problem may be.

Now I've got to get to my in-laws' house for their 4th of July barbecue! Will write more at a later date...

Have a wonderful 4th of July! Stay tuned for more of my writing...

Great News!

2006-05-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

Hi, I got wonderful news today and would like to share it with you! A story I wrote was accepted and published on "Associated Content's" web site!!! My story is titled The Forgotten Child, and can be read by all at http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/31076/the_forgotten_child.html.

Please do visit my story's direct link (above), I'm excited about this latest story being published and would love for all my dear readers & subscribers to share in my excitement too! And to enjoy the story!

On another subject, I also found a great supportive website for men & women who are childless, but not by choice! It is a forum-style group in which everyone on the forum understands, and has been through, heartbreak, sorrow and pain in trying to have children. In case you are in the same situation as I and the wonderful people on "Childless, Not By Choice's" forum, you can check out their site at http://www.childlessnotbychoice.com. They are also known by their initials -- CNBC.I love the warm welcome I received there and the emotional support, and do plan to go back in when I'm not so darn busy here! Everyone at "Childless, Not By Choice (CNBC)" is in the same boat so-to-speak.

Unfortunately, there is a great divide between men & women who have children and those that couldn't due to medical problems or whatever the cause of their infertility may be. Choosing not to have children and not being able to have children are two very different situations ... not being able to have children is full of sorrow, pain and heartbreak every time a pregnancy ends in miscarriage or never happens; unlike those who chose to prevent having children ever. The cruel comments uninformed people make adds to Childless, Not By Choice's heartbreak...

The ironic thing about finding "Childless, Not By Choice's (CNBC)" website was that three days before I came across their site I had begun writing a story/article titled, "Childless, Not By Choice" offline!!! And, yes, I told all the wonderful people on CNBC's forum this fact; they too felt it was truly ironic and that there had to be a guiding force behind me finding their site!

The reason I began my story/article titled, "Childless, Not By Choice!" was because it saddens me that women who do have children barely speak to me. They should think about the heartbreak that women and men who are childless not by choice are suffering through -- all those fertility treatments, spending a fortune on trying to have a child, and still no baby to bring home! No, it isn't always easy to bear children and people have to realize this, and stop being so insensitive to others. That's why I'm ecstatically happy that I found "Childless, Not By Choice's" website -- it's a wonderful place where everyone truly understands.

Please don't forget to read my story, "The Forgotten Child" on "Associated Content's" website! In case you missed it above, the direct link to my story is: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/31076/the_forgotten_child.html.

After you're done reading it, I would love to hear from you on what you thought of the story! So, please don't be shy... you can comment here or send me an email through my website ("contact me" button). Thank you for coming here and reading my great news today!

Happy Mother's Day to those who are mothers and those who have mothers!!!

Reply to My First Commentor, Eveline Maedel

2006-04-29T13:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Eveline, for being the first to write a comment here and welcoming me to the Blogging World!

In reply to Eveline's comment, please watch for the REDESIGN of my author site and the home of The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine, in which we will have a "subscribe button" right on the Home page...the new design and layout will be launched on June 1st, 2006.

Until June 1st, to "subscribe" to my ezine you must click on the "Contact Me" button, located at the bottom left-hand side of my web site, a blank email form opens up with my email address on there; just write in the body of the email your name & email address and in the Subject Line write "Subscribe" and I will know you would like to receive The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine every month in your inbox! Of course after June 1st, this won't be necessary to do because we will have a "Sign Up For The Ezine" button which will be our "subscribe button"! Are you wondering if you must 'pay' to access my ezine and web site? If you are, the answer is no you do not have to pay; both are FREE to access and read. Also thank you Eveline, for bringing up a good question! If anybody else has any questions to ask, please do write in the comment box and I will answer them as honestly as I can.

I would love to stay here longer, because there was something I was going to write about that has been bothering me but, unfortunately, my husband is telling me it's time to go food shopping, etc. Things I must do inside the house...one of the many drawbacks of being a 'woman' writer! Will write more at a later date. Take care everyone, and have a wonderful weekend now that the weather here in New York is getting nicer.

Rosanne
www.rosannecatalano.net
Publisher: "The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine" (A Progressive Online Magazine)
Author: "Touch of Tomorrow - In Loving Memory" (book of poetry) and numerous short stories, poetry and articles published online & in print.

Welcome to my first blog post: dated April 15, 2006!

2006-04-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

Wow! Can't believe I'm actually blogging now! Though I'm a publisher and author, not too sure what we're supposed to write here but I know this can be an extension of sorts of my ezine. Haven't written in my AOL journal (which was supposed to be a Blog!) since last summer when my stepdad was ill in the hospital, he has since passed away as did my dad two months later (in October). My dad passing was a total shock because I hadn't even known he was as sick as he was... I still miss them both terribly.

But do realize life goes on, and the best way to honor them is to celebrate their lives and mine...and boy do I have a lot to celebrate! Publication of more short stories and poems I wrote made my whole year, and we have been gaining lots of new subscribers to The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine! It warms me that so many people love reading the ezine I created to help get helpful information into the hands of those who may not have this info at there disposal, and to showcase up coming new writers and established authors.

One of my contributing authors started out as an up and coming new writer, and since being published numerous times in our ezine has now gone on to start her own freelancing business...thank you God for helping my contributing authors become as successful with their own writing. Now my ezine has gained a Bronze Award for Outstanding Achievement in Ezine Publishing and has lots of loyal readers and subscribers.

And, last but definitely not least, thank you God for sending Nancy Currie my way because without Nancy I wouldn't be able to publish The Cat's Meow for Writers & Readers Ezine every month... and she's been there for me when I wanted to just give up on the ezine publishing to concentrate more on my own writing. But I have since found a happy medium, where I set aside time to write, then submit my work to various markets, and still write, edit and publish my ezine. Oh, and that doesn't even include the household chores I must do as a housewife to keep our home nice and clean and livable! There is just not enough hours in a day to do all that we want and need to do.

I must sign off now, because I'm tired from being at the dentist's office 2 hours...yep, my dentist had me in that chair for 2 HOURS!!! As much as I like my dentist and his assistants, I jumped for joy when I finally got out of that chair, wasn't my idea of a nice way to spend a beautiful Saturday afternoon. HAPPY EASTER to all those who celebrate it!