Greetings!


"In dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don't try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present."
~Lao Tzu

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The month of December is most often thought of as holiday season and a time to gather with loved ones. However, for many people, it's a time of mixed emotions. Perhaps you lost a loved one this time of year, or the holiday time is a lonely time for you because of lost loved ones or the distance which separates you.

My father passed away in 1991 a few days before Christmas. For years I had a difficult time during holiday seasons, but thankfully time softens the pain of loss. This time of year can also be good to reminisce about and honor those who have left our lives. I often think about my grandmother and her influence on my life. She died when I was ten years old. Check out this article about her in Living Crue.

Because I have a small family and my children spend time with their spouses' families, this time of year is usually quiet for me. While many people are frantically busy running around, I often view this time of year as one of calm, replenishment, and nurturing. My plan is to take a few courses. First I will take a mandala course, and then I plan to take a cooking class featuring hors d'oeuvres. Perhaps I will have some friends over for a holiday spirit and I can practice what I learned in my course. For me this month is also a continuation of November, the month of gratitude. When struggling with difficult emotions, it's a good time to sit down and do some gratitude journaling. Many studies have shown that gratitude can lead to happiness. Check out my article in Psychology Today to go more in-depth on this topic.

On another note, it's not always easy for writers to promote their books. Most of us would rather be writing; however, in view of gift-buying season, I would like to suggest some of my books below which I've been told make great gifts. If you would enjoy an autographed copy, please email me at diana@dianaraab.com with your shipping address and I will mail you a book plate.

Sending you the best wishes for a blissful holiday season and beyond!
dianaraab.com
Conversation Cards for Meaningful Storytelling


These handy cards were inspired by my book, "Writing for Bliss." The importance of human connection has taken on a deeper meaning as circumstances push us to find new ways to share our experiences and stories.

This is a perfect stocking stuffer to be used for connecting with family and friends near and far.

Also, these serve as
great writing prompts!

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Available on Amazon.
Click here to order



My latest poetry book contains poems in response to those of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.

Available on Amazon or wherever books are sold.

***
Available on Amazon
Click here to order



Available on Amazon
Click here to order

Available on Amazon
Click here to order


  • Write about your favorite book.
  • Write about your favorite December ritual.
  • Write about your biggest joy.
  • Write about what you do when stressed out.

“My Quan Yin.” (poem). Young Ravens Literary Review. Issue 17. 

“Embrace Change." (poem).  Literary Cocktail Magazine. Fall 2022. 

“My Grandmother and Me.” (article). Living Crue Magazine. October 2022.

“Not to Be Blue.” (poem). Adelaide Magazine. October 2022. 

“A Writer’s Musings on National Book Month.” (article). The Good Men Project. October 27, 2022.

“Three-Wheeled Tandem Bicycle.” (poem). Quibble: Triple Issue. November 2022.

“Cut Outs.” (poem). Your Fire Magazine. Issue. 2. November 2022.

"Friday Night Clean Up." (poem). Half and One. November 2, 2022.

“Six Important Reasons to Read.” (article). The Good Men Project. November 3, 2022.


“How Practicing Gratitude can Lead to Happiness.” (article). Psychology Today. November 17, 2022.

“Why Be Grateful?” (article). The Good Men Project. November 17, 2022.

“The Joy of Thanksgiving Stories.” (article). Sixty and Me. November 20, 2022.

How Gratitude Can Lead to Happiness.” (article). The Good Men Project. November 24, 2022.

Balladz by Sharon Olds

For years I've been following the poetry of Sharon Olds. I love her deep honesty and attentiveness to her inner musings and what's going on in the world around her.

This collection begins with some poems written during the early stages of the pandemic and weaves through writing about loved ones and the aging process. We are in similar stages of the life journey, thus I really relate to her work.

While reading, I reminisced about a workshop I took with Olds years ago at Esalen in Big Sur and how it changed my life. We all sat on pillows in a circle on the floor of the Fritz Pavilion listening to Olds read her own poetry, then read and critique ours. This marked a big turning point in my life as a poet!
Your True Home by Thich Nhat Hanh

My writing studio bookshelf houses all of Thich Nhat Hahn's books. Some I've read once, but many I've read over and over again. He just provides such poignant nuggets of wisdom for every day and every mood.

This collection includes 365 pieces of wisdoms by Thay (as he's famously known). Because we don't always know the day of the year, it's probably best just flipping to any number and reading the message for the day.

Those who are familiar with his work, know that he highlights the importance of mindfulness and breathing.

Today, I flipped to this page (#70) titled, "The Miraculous Smile."

"In our face there are dozens of muscles, and when we're angry or afraid, those muscles hold a lot of tension. But if we know to breathe in and be aware of them and breathe out and smile to them, we can help them release the tension. Our face can be completely different after one in-breath and out-breath. A smile can bring a miracle."
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