Today I’m thrilled to have Diana Lesire Brandmeyer as my guest. Her non-fiction book We’re Not Blended, We’re Pureed released in July and her novel A Bride’s Dilemma in Friendship, Tennessee releases in May 2010.

1. Whose idea was it to write the book?

My agents. Seriously! She mentioned blended families and I said I could write that book in my sleep.

2. Why did you feel it was a book worth writing?

There are an amazing number of blended families in this country. I’d give you the number but I’m not good with those and I’d get it wrong! While I was in the midst of blending my family I wanted a book that would help me and couldn’t find one. So I wrote it.

3. Did your family support you when you told them about the project?

Yes! I asked each of my kids if they were okay with some family secrets being in a book. They were fine with it as long as I give them a share of the royalties. So if you ask me….I haven’t sold any books yet.

4. What do you hope families will take away from reading your book?

My strongest hope is they will understand they aren’t the only family experiencing trials.

5. What was it like working with a co-author? Any unexpected challenges or benefits?

Writing with Marty Lintvedt was a learning experience. I had to write my chapters first so she could respond. While I was working on the following chapters I’d be wondering, “What is she going to write? Is she going to put in print that I did everything wrong?” The benefits were good. We had lots of bonding time over meals since we both quit cooking. I learned a lot from what she wrote—mainly I did okay with my kids—most of the time!

6. When is your favorite time of day to write?

After 3 p.m. my fingers and brain start to connecting.

7. Do you reward yourself when you meet certain writing goals? If so, how?

I should do that. I always say I’m going to get a massage when I finish a book. I even have a gift card for one. I should call and take advantage of that.

8. What other projects have you been working on?

I’m in the midst of edits for A Bride’s Dilemma in Friendship, Tennessee which releases next May. I’m also working on another historical that is not titled yet.

9. What was your biggest challenge as a mom in a blended family?

Ha! Everyday seemed to have the biggest challenge. You get wrapped up in the everyday ‘have to’s’ and it’s not until you look back you realize what hurdles you cleared. If I had to pick one thing it would be building a relationship with my son, Andy.

10. What was your biggest joy as a mom in a blended family?

Being the only female! I never had to take anyone to the bathroom at the ballpark. Oh, that’s not what you meant? Fine, the biggest joy is looking at my sons today and knowing they are going to make it without my help in this world. That’s not to say I’m unwilling to help, they just don’t seem to need/want my advice.

Thanks for joining me today, Diana. It’s been a pleasure to have you!