In 1913, an article on playground movement that Howells wrote was published in the "Young Women's Journal". For some time, Howells served as the secretary to her husband. He had formed a company that purchased and distributed American silent movies throughout Europe and countries around the world. The couple traveled extensively, although they had residency in New York City. She and her husband lived for two years in Australia, and also lived in Paris, France and London. Howells purchased many items from around the world including candelabras and rugs that decorated her home throughout the years. She was a foreign correspondent for the New York Morning Telegram while her family was abroad. During this time, Howells also wrote articles for the "Deseret News"; her column was titled "News from New York." David sold the film company in 1921, and the couple moved to Los Angeles.