Michele Miles Gardiner’s Writing Portfolio Michele enjoys storytelling and finding the humor in life’s chaos—as she does in her book, “Craving Normal,” and her upcoming book, “How To Stay Broke and Influence Nobody.” To read, click on the images below. Valley State of Mind: In defense of the San Fernando Valley. We’re not all meth heads and porn stars! “Technology Bubble” – Sometimes convenience seals us off from personal connection. Kid Sense: Too often we grow up and lose it. Holiday Letters, Cheeseballs, and Uvulas – Oh My! Julius Shulman: Modernity and the Metropolis