12 Ways to Enjoy the Holidays without Blowing Your Budget

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills The holidays are marching toward us much faster than we can imagine. We treasure those special moments with family and friends, but menus, activities, parties, shopping, and decorating can rob our enthusiasm plus put a dent in our budgets. We embrace all the wonder of  the big three holidays: Thanksgiving Christmas New Year Careful planning is …

Finding Soul Care Through Creative Expression

By Edie Melson @DiAnnMills This week’s blog post is by my dear friend and writer Edie Melson @EdieMelson I’ve been where you are—weary and ready for relief. Some months that seems to be a place where I live. I provided support for my mother while she cared for my father during the last years of his life. That meant hours …

Are You Concerned About Your Social Skills?

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills I’ve spent much of my time away from home this month. We visited family and friends in Ohio, which is always a treat. October has also been busy with the launch of Burden of Proof. Talking to readers about a new book, the writing process, and catching up or making new friends fills me with satisfaction. Sometimes …

10 Things Your Best Friend Won’t Tell You – But Should

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills A true best friend is a rare and cherished person. Whether you are a man or woman, this person will share concern and not judge. Heart-to-heart talks are based on respect and sincerity. Many of you have spouses who are your best friend. You are so fortunate! Others look to sisters, brothers, cousins, mothers, dads, and …

Summer Giveaway!

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills This summer has been amazing. We’ve enjoyed fabulous days bathed in sunshine and bursting with fun. Some of you have made memories away from home, and some have explored your backyard. Many of us have spent time at picnics and barbecues, family reunions, fireworks, and lazy afternoons by the beach or pool. But I think we’re …

7 Mistakes That Make Every Writer Look Unprofessional

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills Every writer wants to be viewed as professional, intelligent, and bestselling. These goals are honorable, worthy, and attainable. But when a writer consistently makes mistakes that label him/her unprofessional, credibility takes a nose dive as well. Examine the following mistakes. If you are a writer, changes may be on your horizon. 1.  Practicing poor grammar and …

Healing From Life’s Scratches

By Julie Garmon @DiAnnMills This week’s blog post is from Julie Garmon, a long-time friend and great writer. For months I pretended not to notice, but last week there was no denying it. As I vacuumed the den, the late afternoon sun poured through the windows, highlighting the scratches in our pine floors. Our floors had been through hard times. Life …

15 Ways to Survive Stress—and Enjoy the Holidays

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills Stress is nothing we plan or calendar. It doesn’t even ask our permission, as though the gray clouds rolling our way are something we want. We respond per our personality, how we were raised, and life experiences. Some of us do a better job than others. October ushers us into the holidays—Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New …

For the Love of Cookies!

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills If I have a weakness, other than great coffee and creating a story, it’s a sweet, delicious, satisfying cookie. While reading through the latest copy of Martha Stewart Living magazine, I found the most mouth-watering Mexican Hot-Chocolate cookie recipe. I made them and they are the perfect, cinnamon spicy, chocolate cookie. Easy too! Mexican Hot-Chocolate Cookies …

Relationships and Friends – Not Just Followers

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills This may be your first DiAnn Mills’ blog since subscribing to my weekly posts. Last week I announced an incredible giveaway as a celebration of my new romantic suspense novel DEEP EXTRACTION. The random drawing is for all blog subscribers as of 1:00 p.m. Central on Thursday, April 13. Take a look at these fantastic prizes! …