Creating Sparks That Last & All Things Relationships

And New Releases from Well-Loved Authors This month I want to share with you, the delights I have discovered from new, and new-to-me, authors. Welcome to July's Bookish Edition of Creating Sparks that Last Elora Canne Up and Coming Authors: So much has happened in the book world this month, I have much to share:  ARC reads  Beta reads  Book endorsements Online interviews  Podcast interviews  In-person, Aussie author, book launch events Bookish start-up event launching this month   To say I am pumped would be an understatement! Right! Onto the Big Reveal: Author’s Showcase Mitos Ming Suson , author of several emotive memoirs herself, approached me for an author feature on her blog, after reading my memoir, En Route . It was such a thrill! Her fun and informative interview reveals all the juicy bits  which you can read about, here:  Author's Showcase   - click through to 'Read full interview here.' If you'd like the chance for an Author's Showcase with Mitos, fo

How to Change Conversation Blockers https://unsplash.com/@jonathanborba One thing is for sure: Marriage and relationships take a lot of work; a lot of honesty with ourselves and our partners. Michelle Obama speaks openly on her anniversary with Barack. [This will be the last of our 4-part mini series on effective communication in relationships.  Keep a look out for our new series next week!]  Honesty with ourselves: Let's begin there If our partner says things that make us feel uncomfortable, we have to first examine what it feels like inside of us in order to understand why we feel that way. For example, "Are you going to dinner dressed like that?" A seemingly innocent question right? WRONG. It's an accusatory question and it makes you feel defensive. Great! Now you can start to understand why it makes you feel that way. You might have any number of reasons - they'll be personal to you as we're all so very different. When you've discovered why you feel a

Connect Through Kindliness [kindly concern, interest, or support] @johnschnobrich Unsplash Intimacy is not only physical connection, it is also mindful connection. People start to heal when they feel heard. Mindful Listening: "Focus on your partner and really listen in to what they're telling you."  Making Couples Happy - John Aiken ❤ Listen, but don't fix                 - just empathise. ❤ Listen, but don't interrupt      - just connect. ❤ Listen, but don't judge             - just understand. This kind of listening helps people connect through empathy, or as I prefer to call it, kindliness . To me kindliness is more tangible. Empathy can seem a bit vague to those who don't have it, whereas kindliness gives a better indication of what is expected; concern, interest, support. When you listen without interrupting, you become present. Using facial expressions and gentle gestures strengthens your presence. When you listen without jumping to conclusions or t