Saturday Smiles & A Lot Going On!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews, Celebrations, Poetry

Do you feel like the world is out of control?
Do you need a smile?
I found an old poem that might just cheer you up…

Bananas

Swinging from the chandelier
I’m overwhelmed from toes to ear
I know it’s time to walk the frog
Can’t just sit, type, and blog
I’d love to dye my hair bright red
I’d love to go right back to bed
Reaching for the coffee cup
Time to fill and pet the pup
In the wind, I feel so free
Would you like a cup of tea?
I’d love to swim and read a book
It’s five o’clock, what shall I cook?
Staring at the vacuum cleaner
I wonder why the fish are meaner
Planets aren’t aligned at all
Let’s go shopping at the mall
Don’t be bothered by the styles
I could talk and talk for miles!

Photo by Tara Winstead on Pexels.com

Are you smiling? I hope so!

Along with smiles and laughter, we need to remember that each day is a gift and worth celebrating. I was recently reminded of this when I visited Steve’s blog, Song of the Day, where he shares a new song each day, writes about its history, then shares his thoughts on the meaning of the lyrics. On a recent post, he reshared the 1971 hit song, “I Just Want to Celebrate,” by the American rock band Rare Earth. Steve asked, “Every day is a good day to celebrate something, right?”
When you listen to the song, you’ll definitely feel like getting outa your chair and groovin’ to the movin’ and celebrating! By the way, if you haven’t met Steve, pay him a visit. Not only is he a nice guy, but if you’re a music lover, you’ll enjoy learning about songs and bands you’ve never heard of or listening to your favorites again!

I mentioned a lot going on, and there is!
Yes, it’s me again,
promoting the release of Cora’s Quest ,
and celebrating the wonderful reviews rapidly coming in!

I can’t begin to thank enough the friends who have helped spread the word about my first children’s book – a collaboration with my amazing nephew, Chris, who created the enchanting, vibrant illustrations. So, this is where ‘a lot going on’ comes into play…below are several more examples of the awesome support I’ve received:

Carol Anne at therapybits.com blogs about her life, focusing on therapy and the process of going through psychotherapy. She is also a wonderful writer of poetry that touches the heart, and she was gracious to post about my book here to help with the promotion.

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Denise from dlfinn.com is the author of Miracles and Ghosts: A Christmas Collection which I highly recommend! A collection of short stories perfect for the holiday season. She included Cora’s Quest in her post: Books that Changed Me: 2024 Winter Edition where she highlights a fraction of the books that she enjoyed by sharing her beautiful reviews. The other fabulous authors spotlighted are Joan Hall, Staci Troilo, Jan Sikes, and Linda Broday.

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
D. L. Finn

Cora’s Quest is a sweet story about a deer’s family outing. Cora is enjoying the forest until things change quickly, and now she needs to find her courage. A fantastic story to read to your little ones or for young readers to enjoy. The illustrations are beautiful and full of color, and the story is woven into a lesson that will resonate with children and their families. Here is an engaging passage: “An owl hoots/from its lofty perch./ The wind howls,/swirling around Cora./Grunts and growls/in the distance/steal her courage!/ They act like thieves!” I can easily recommend this story for young readers and those who read to them.

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Cindy at uniquelyfitblog.com is the author of Celebrating Poetry, a companion guide to her book, Re-Create and Celebrate. I read her first book and highly recommend it, and I have her second book on my bookcase waiting to be read very soon. I already know that I’ll enjoy it as much as the first. She has a generous heart when it comes to helping fellow authors, so she shared an amazing group of book releases here in her blog post, while celebrating the success of Celebrating Poetry. The other fabulous authors featured are an anthology by Aspiring Blog , Dawn Pisturino, Pamela S. Wight & Neville N. Hill.

Cindy’s book is on sale for the holidays:

Links For Purchase:

Ebooks are now only 2.99 on Amazon

Paperback is 9.99 available on Amazon.

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Darlene at darlenefoster.wordpress.com is the author of the delightful Amanda Travel Series, and her recent book is Amanda in Scotland. I am almost finished and have truly enjoyed traveling to Scotland with Amanda. I’ve read a few of the other Amanda adventures, so I can highly recommend this series. She posted her 5-star review for Cora’s Quest on Amazon and Goodreads while celebrating the success of Amanda in Scotland.

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Darlene Foster

An adorable book about a young deer who questions her courage. The illustrations are delightful and the story has a lovely message. A perfect gift for a little one in your life, one that would be fun to read together too. I can see a child wanting to read this story over and over.

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Dr. Vicki at victoriaponders.com is the author of Surviving Sue: An inspirational survivor’s story about a daughter and her life with a mother who was riddled with alcoholism, Alzheimer’s, anxiety, depression, and Munchausen’s. I have the paperback and look forward to reading this powerful and emotional story. I love Vicki’s writing and the way she thinks just by reading her blog posts, so I know her story will go straight to my heart. She recently wrote an inspirational blog post that is a balm to the soul. She wove her inspiring message into children’s literature in which she included my book, Cora’s Quest, and Goldie A. Poligee & the Three Bears by Joanie Becker Goldberg. Check out her blog post here!

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Dawn Pisturino at dawnpisturino.wordpress.com is the author of Sun Haiku: 365 Days of Sunshine, which I will begin to read soon. I’ve read several of Dawn’s books and love them all! Her evocative poetry draws her readers in deeply. She shared her beautiful review of Cora’s Quest here, so check it out, and you’ll also find out more about Dawn’s books!

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dawn Pisturino

This charming new children’s book by poet Lauren Scott tells the story of a little fawn who gets lost in the woods, finds herself vulnerable and alone, and discovers her inner strength and courage. Written for children ages 2 – 5 years old, this story teaches children the importance of remaining calm and focused when faced with uncertainty. The illustrations by Chris Mendez will delight any child. If your child or grandchild likes Bambi, he or she will adore this book.

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I mentioned Diana Wallace Peach at mythsofthemirror.com in this blog post because she read my book the day it was released and reviewed it right away, gifting Cora with a 5-star review! But I want to announce that she has a new book on preorder now which will go live on January 2nd: Tale of the Season’s Weaver. Diana writes incredible fantasy books, and she is the fantasy writer who converted me!

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All of the authors mentioned in this post are talented, beautiful, and amazing writers! They know how to weave words that appeal to all senses. I am honored to be included in the mix and to receive such warm support. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! ❤️

I know this post is longer than usual, so if you’ve read from beginning to end, I appreciate you taking the time. I also encourage you to visit the posts I highlighted and peruse around the blogs I shared!

All of the blog links and anywhere you see ‘here’ are clickable. WP was acting snarky, but they all work. I conclude with a poem from my latest poetry collection, Ever So Gently, that ties in with gratitude:

7 am

The sun slowly opens
its sleepy eyes
The neighborhood
still breathes
soft breaths

Not a soul
Not a sound

We own this morning
this moment is ours

Tranquility flows
through our veins
We exhale gratitude
Another miracle
reveals itself
in the creation
of a new dawn.

🔆🔆🔆

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And don’t forget to add books to your shopping list! You can click on all images to purchase your copy! Poetry, Fiction, Adventure, Travel, Fantasy, Memoir, and Children’s Literature! It’s all here! 💝

I look forward to some quiet time with a cup of tea or coffee and diving into the wonderful books waiting to be read. What a great problem to have, too many books! 💖

Thank you for spending time with me, and I wish you a wonderful weekend and a peaceful holiday season! 💞

© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com – All rights reserved.

New Release! Click on the image to purchase
your copy! ❤️🙏



84 thoughts on “Saturday Smiles & A Lot Going On!”

  1. Lauren! “Bananas” really speaks to me this morning – especially these lines:
    “Swinging from the chandelier
    I’m overwhelmed from toes to ear
    I know it’s time to walk the frog
    Can’t just sit, type, and blog
    I’d love to dye my hair bright red
    I’d love to go right back to bed”
    Thanks for putting a massive smile on my face. Your poem captured the urgency I feel about attempting to do ALL the things…all at once this time of year, but with the reminder that if we don’t slow down, we accomplish nothing. And then…the bonus smile? Your kind words about “Surviving Sue”? Thank you for including me amongst these wonderful, talented authors. Cheers to all…and to you and Chris as you celebrate the success of “Cora’s Quest”. xo! 🥰

    1. Vicki, I’m so glad I put a smile on your face! This poem is from my first book, but it’s silliness seems to be so likable. 🙂 And you’re right about the need to slow down, especially during this time of year. Otherwise, we’ll definitely go bananas! You’re so welcome regarding your book and including you! Thanks again for your continued enthusiasm, the kind of energy I welcome and love! Hugs to you! 😘 xo

  2. I really like your poems. They come from daily life and it is the least I can write. I feel better with romance. For my rest, classical music. I am so glad to have found your blog.

  3. A fun share Lauren. For the past few days I’ve been trying to buy these books but my kindle won’t let me – just telling me that these books aren’t available in my country.

    1. Thanks so much, Sadje, and have you tried Kobo.com? I don’t know about the other books, but mine is there in e-book, and it’s worth a try for the others too. Please remember though that my e-book formatting isn’t the best, but the story and images remain the same. I hope kobo works because these are great books! ❤️🤗

  11. A lot going on, indeed, Lauren! Wow, you’ve been busy… and doing reviews on top of it all! I loved your real but playful poem, “Bananas.”

    Thank you so much for your shout-out to my blog and the song. You’re a wonderful supporter of mine, and a friend, faithfully making thoughtful comments on my posts and generously spreading well-wishes and positivity wherever you go.

    I’m excited to read ‘Cora’s Quest’ to our grandkids. It is out of stock at Amazon.ca which is the only viable merchant right now in the midst of a month-long postal strike here in Canada, but I’ll be getting copies for them just as soon as Mr. Bezos restocks the shelves.

    1. Hi Steve,

      I’m glad you liked my silly poem, bound to bring a smile, and you are so welcome! Your post and song tied into the message for mine, so it was perfect. And I like to spotlight friends and blogs that I enjoy visiting. 🙂 And thank you for your interest in my book. Another friend lives in Canada and mentioned the postal strike. Talk about inconvenient. I also noticed the ‘out of stock’ on Amazon and don’t understand since it’s print on demand. So, I’ll email the company I used to create the book and see if I can find out anything. If so, I’ll let you know. Anyway, thanks for your wonderful support with my writing as well. It’s greatly appreciated. Enjoy your Sunday! 🤗

      1. Thanks very much, Lauren.

        I appreciate the info about the book. I ordered two so hopefully they will come before Christmas with any luck!

        I hope you’re enjoying your Sunday!🤗

      2. You’re welcome, Steve, and I hope they will too. I’m going to make a call tomorrow. It’s frustrating. Sigh. Anyway, I’ve been working on more book reviews today. 🙂 It’s cold and gray outside, but the house is warm, and I’m enjoying the Christmas tree. Hope you’re having a good day too!🎄❄️

      3. It’s a great day, thanks, and we’re enjoying our tree, too… and the fact we’re pretty well organized days ahead of where we usually are at this time of the year! 🙌

  12. Wonderful poems and a great list of books and authors. I’m so grateful to you for sharing my book!
    Thank you so very much, Lauren!! All the best for your book which is under my tree after a quick read. The babies/toddlers will love it!!🥰

    1. Thanks so much, Cindy, and I’m happy to spotlight you and your book! Your new book is next in line for me to start reading today, and I know I’ll love it. And thanks again for your kind, kind words about Cora’s Quest. Music to my ears, as you know the melody! 🙂 Enjoy your continued success and wishing you a peaceful Sunday. 💖

  13. Your poem did bring a smile for me 🙂 I imagined your poem skipping along a sidewalk and singing about the various things that it sees. And that’s a delightful collection of books in your post, too 🌞

  14. I’m so glad the great reviews are rapidly rolling in, Lauren. What a wonderful feeling and joy to know that Cora is touching hearts. (Chris must be thrilled too!). It was fun to see the list of reviewers and their praise for the book. Thanks so much for the mention too. That was super kind of you. Enjoy the glow, my friend. It’s well-earned. ❤

    1. Thanks, Diana, and Chris is definitely thrilled! And you’re so welcome about the mention. I had to include your new book which I can’t wait to buy and read!
      One thing I just found out is that the paperback of mine shows out of stock, so I’m going to call Ingram tomorrow. Sigh. Hopefully, it’ll be resolved soon. Anyway, thank you again for all the support. I’m thrilled that Cora is warming many hearts. Hugs 🥰

      1. Well, that’s not necessarily a bad thing if it means that people are buying it up faster than they print them. Hopefully they have the print presses running.
        And thanks for the lovely comment about my coming release. Hugs. ❤ ❤

  15. Beautiful Lauren and what gracious shoutouts to your reviewers! What an honor my friend! I can sense your excitement! 😍🙌🏼😁 May your week ahead be more FANtabulous! Hugs and smooches! 🥰💖😘

    1. Thanks so much for joining in the celebration and for your kind words, Kym! I appreciate them very much. One more week of work and then we’re off for the holidays. So, I wish you the same, my friend! Hugs and smooches, Girlfriend! 🤗🥰❤️🎄⭐️

      1. You are so very welcome Lauren and I know you can’t wait for that time off. Whatever you do, don’t you dare stress out. Enjoy your free time to bask in the essence of the holiday spirit my friend. Cheers! 🍹🥂🍸

      3. Oh my dear Lauren, I bid you and your family the same warm wishes and more! Let the beauty and spirit of the holiday season rejuvenate you will heightened peace, joy, and creativity my friend. 🎅🏼🎄🦌🎁🤶🏼 Hugs and smooches. 💖💖💖

  19. “I know it’s time to walk the frog” Fun poem, Lauren, and ‘walk the frog’ had me chuckling with a wonderful picture in my mind of someone walking a frog, just hop, hop, hopping along.

  25. Wow!

    Lauren this is a wonderful sharing post.

    I knew many would jump in to promote your new book, and that is partly because…well… look at all that you give back!

    It’s also partly because…you are one endearing person.

    Bananas is hilarious!

    Thank you for this lovely post. I have already seen the review of your book on some of the blogs, and will hop over to the rest!

    🎄🕊🤍🌟🎄xx

    1. Aww, thanks, Resa! I’m glad you enjoyed this post, and I appreciate your wonderful words. You’re always so kind and I can say the same about you! Haha! I’m glad you liked Bananas! It’s from my first book, but it seems to make its way into current posts. The reviews are coming in on Goodreads and Amazon and I’m blown away in a good way! Sending hugs! 🥰🎄⭐️🔆🎉💖

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