Welcome to my corner of this wonderful community where I share my poetry, short stories, and occasional photos. My husband and I have been married for thirty-seven years, and we have two adult children. I have published four collections of poetry, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. I am working on another poetry collection and an early chapter children’s book. When you visit, I hope you find something to take with you, but that you also find something enticing enough to keep bringing you back. I truly appreciate your visit. Cheers, Lauren ❤️
I’m currently reading a beautiful book of syllabic poetry, Seasons and Crystals, by Balroop Singh. I’ve written syllabic poetry, but it’s not my go-to form like free verse. And yet, reading her poetry and the various forms inspired me. I thought about life in general, about the past events in our family, and about nature’s beauty right in front of us. So, the other evening, Hubby and I were enjoying our patio time and the weather was perfect, not too hot, not too cold or windy. A cactus sits on our table that our daughter bought years ago. My husband gave it a drink, and I loved the water droplets on the tepals. So, I wrote some poetry in the form of American cinquain which consists of 5 lines and a syllable count on each line of 2-4-6-8-2. This form is also known as the Crapsey cinquain and was invented by American poet, Adelaide Crapsey.
Evening on the Patio
Pleasure, simple and free, birds sing from tree tops in the distance under vast blue sky – senses
Splendor
Beauty comes in many forms, colors, and textures – painful to fingertips or soft to touch
Living
Lovely life around us can be prickly at times but keep eyes open for when hope glistens
Layers
Secrets lie in layers – will they be publicized? time is the ultimate answer – patience
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
Today I’m sharing the last review I’ve been working on. If you’re met head-on with unforeseen challenges and seeking comfort in the written word, you’ll find what you’re looking for in this beautiful collection of short stories. And if you’re simply drawn to uplifting and magical tales, you’ll find plenty to captivate you in this lovely book. As I think about Sally, I’m not sure if there is anyone in this warm community who isn’t familiar with her blog where she provides “health articles, book marketing, music, humor, lifestyle, cookery, food and short stories.”
Sally is more than generous in helping to promote authors and their new books. I’ve been fortunate to be featured on her blog, Smorgasbord Blog Magazine, and words truly can’t express my gratitude. 🙏
About Sally:
I have enjoyed a nomadic existence living in eight countries including Sri Lanka, Malta, South Africa, USA and Spain, before settling back here in Ireland. My work, and a desire to see some of the most beautiful parts of the world in the last forty years, has taken me to many more incredible destinations around Europe and Canada, and across the oceans to New Zealand and Hawaii. All those experiences and the people that I have met, provide a rich source of inspiration for my stories.
After a career in customer facing roles in the hospitality, retail, advertising and telecommunications industry, I wrote and published my first book in 1999 called Size Matters, about my weight loss journey, losing 154lbs in 18 months. This has been followed by 18 further fiction and non-fiction books, including a number of short story collections.
Extracted from Amazon:
The Irish garden has been a sanctuary for centuries for those escaping persecution, invaders and grief. Its guardian is the storyteller, a man who has lived for hundreds of years and who is part of a network of guardians around the world, offering a safe haven to those worthy of their protection.
Click on the image to purchase your copy.
Now for my 5-star review:
Sally Cronin is an excellent and prolific writer. I’ve read several of her books, and I’ve enjoyed each one equally. Tales from the Irish Garden: The Missing Pieces is no exception!
This book is a poignant, tender, and encouraging collection of short stories inspired by Sally and her husband David’s garden in Ireland—a safe haven offering the magic of nature. The keeper of the garden is the storyteller who has lived hundreds of years. I loved the musical thread that weaves through many of the stories based on a Zulu lullaby that Sally’s nanny used to sing to her in South Africa—haunting yet comforting.
Throughout the pages, themes of kindness, friendship, animal therapy, healing, starting over, and moving through grief gently emerge. These are themes every reader can relate to, and a wide range of emotions found their way into my heart.
One line that especially stands out to me from “The Orphaned Boy” is: “Let’s get this chap home to the magic garden and show him life can be kind.”
Don’t we all need this kind of affirmation? With all the news making hate and violence seem so prevalent, I certainly do.
Each story has a new offering. I had the privilege of meeting Finn, Lilah, Ramon, Michael, Flaco, and Bebechat. My love for animals was satisfied from a dog, a cat, and even a crow named Charlie. I loved every tale, but a few of my favorites are “Finnegan,” about a man who has lost everything. “Charlie’s Story” is about an injured crow who is about to be attacked by crows of his own kind. “Lilah” endures many tragedies and is in need for healing. “The Invitation” speaks of providing sanctuary to those who have been persecuted – a magical tale that reminds me of current tumultuous times in our world.
As I read each story, I was captivated and felt the strong possibility of a mood boost. I encourage you to read these heartwarming tales that inspire transformation in lives that have lost all hope. A magical garden would be welcomed, wouldn’t it? A place where those distressed souls – both humans and precious animals – could find safety, healing, kindness, and a home. Highly recommended.
If you haven’t met Sally, I know she’d love to see you at Smorgasbord Blog Magazine, and I hope you won’t leave here empty-handed! Thanks for stopping by, andhave a wonderful weekend ahead! 💚🩷💚
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
A huge thanks to you who left caring comments on my prior post, which after a night of restless sleep (tossed salad), I decided to delete. One friend said that my words helped her, which made me feel good. And your kindness helped me. So, I think it’s time to push aside the sadness, if only for a minute.
To welcome this new month of September that brings its own season, I’m sharing some photos that I took from China Camp, along with a few haiku…
naked ladies dance in the summer ocean breeze with soft, blushing cheeks
the laughter you’ve heard the tears fallen on your chest the stories you keep
your vastness holds dreams released to your custody until my return
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I hope you enjoyed the pics and poems. Life goes on, and I’m reminded just how fast time seems to fly. My gratitude also goes to you who continue to visit even though I’ve been more absent than present this year. Anyway, I wish you all a Super September. And I promise to visit you during the week! Your time spent here is always appreciated! ❤️
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
It’s time to share a long overduereview of Slivers by Vicki Atkinson – another compelling readto add to your towering TBR! 🙂
In case you haven’t met Vicki...
Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. (I’ll answer to any and all!) I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), author of “Surviving Sue” and “Slivers“. I’m also a well-regarded speaker and consultant in my own business, Atkinson Group Solutions.
I believe in the power of connection – taking time to share what matters most and I do a lot of pondering (yes…Victoria Ponders) about writing, relationships, family and wellness.
Writing for wellness was the inspiration behind my memoir, “Surviving Sue“. Two years later, I answered the call from readers who were curious about my mom’s highly intuitive family, and I wrote my first-ever novel, “Slivers” – inspired by eerie, generational secrets.
Learn more about both books from my terrific publisher, Eckhartz Press.
My 5-star review:
Slivers byVicki Atkinson
Slivers quietly pulled me in and then refused to let go. From the beginning, Vicki had a natural way of drawing me into this tale. As I turned the pages, I found myself face to face with family dysfunction of many layers. And before I knew it, I was completely immersed in the lives of the three protagonists. Their emotions and struggles against the frightening supernatural forces (slivers) that became more intense made me care about what happened to them. I felt the tension, and honestly, I believe I held my breath until I reached the last page. For me, when a book is really good, I think about the characters even when I’m not reading. So, it’s as though I stepped into the world of these three young teenagers that took place in a week’s time during the summer of 1973. Do your thoughts ever take you back generations? Sometimes, the past covertly slinks into the present, providing fodder for a fascinating story about a family whose secrets resurface.
Imagine trying to make sense of hearing ghostly voices, seeing inanimate objects move like living creatures, let alone, unearthing a family secret that upends life. Do you crave drama and suspense? Do you love characters that make you feel like you’ve known them forever? Does a hint of the unexplained keep you engrossed? If you answer yes to these questions, then I highly recommend Slivers – a masterfully written novel with an ending that stayed with me long after I turned the last page.
To purchase your copy of Slivers, simply click on the book cover image above.
Now that I (hope to) have your attention, let me also highlight Vicki’s memoir, Surviving Sue.
My 5-star review:
Vicki Atkinson’s book is an honest and emotional memoir about living with her mom, Sue, who was plagued with mental health and addiction issues. Sue’s moods would shift from joyful to rage in no time, causing confusion and pain to anyone nearby. Vicki disclosed only the truth, no sugarcoating any situation, and even inserted humor at times. In the midst of chaos and after she moved out from her mother’s house, she remained concerned about her disabled sister, Lisa, who landed on the receiving end of their mother’s manipulation and abuse.
How Vicki met each challenging moment with resilience, compassion, and strength was absolutely amazing to discover. She uncovered the means for coping while also providing us a glimpse of the good side of Sue…her fun, entertaining qualities, and empathetic heart that advocated for others. I found this perspective to be heartwarming and inspirational. Vicki became a licensed counselor, so I’m sure living with her mom’s unstable personality offered insight for her future to counsel others. This book truly demonstrates what it means to love and forgive, and to stay strong in turbulent times. Highly recommended!
To purchase your copy, simply click on the book cover image.
Thanks so much for stopping by, and please don’t leave empty-handed! Pay Vicki a visit too. She is not only an excellent writer, but she’s a kind-hearted soul, and I’m happy to call her a friend in this warm community. 💖
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
I returned earlier than I mentioned, but I thought you’d enjoy some lake love. 💙
There’s nothing like escaping to the mountains for tranquility and perspective. Nature unconditionally offers her healing ways, so we embraced them. Last month, life threw us some challenges that we’re moving through with as much grace as possible, but it was good to getaway and spend some time in the Sierra Mountains. We biked around the renovated campground on newly paved roads (pedal bikes and so much fun!). We hiked on the backcountry trail – the same trail that took us to the enchanting Spider Lake for backpacking in 2019. Loon Lake shown in these photos is gorgeous, a mini Lake Tahoe without the tourists. And it’s been our ‘cabin’ for the last 15 years. Stepping into the cold water is a bit shocking, but once you’re immersed, it feels so good and refreshing that you never want to get out. It’s magical. We reveled in each sunset, and I can’t get enough pics! Our last night’s sunset was one of the most spectacular, oranges and pinks brushed across the sky. And of course, we simply relaxed in camp – reading, talking, listening. Our time here was awesome. It was peaceful. It was reflective. It was needed. So, I hope the slide show brings peace to you:
A getaway in the woods may help us forget, but reality tags along – so we lug around sadness while embracing serenity, and somehow, they harmonize.
I hope you’re doing well, and maybe one of our photos spoke to you, or maybe a few. Next week, I’ll share reviews for some wonderful books! Take good care and stay healthy! 💕
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
A picture book that offers a message for all ages.
I’m going to be offline until near the end of the month. At that time, I’ll share a few over-due book reviews. Until then, I hope the photo above brings a smile, and the photo below brings calming vibes.
Stinson Beach
Have an amazing August, and Stay cool, Stay safe, Stay well! ❤️
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
I am thrilled to welcome friend and fellow Author, Jacqui Murray, and help promote her new book, Balance of Nature, which is Book 3 of the Savage Land Trilogy! Jacqui is a talented and prolific author of prehistoric fiction and non-fiction, and she has published more books than I can count! Balance of Nature is on my list to read later this year.However, I read and loved Endangered Species, and you can find my 5-star review on Amazon, Goodreads, and at this book review post.
Savage Land is the third trilogy about prehistoric man in the series, Man. Vs. Nature. Savage Land explores how two bands of humans survived one of the worst natural disasters in Earth’s history, when volcanic eruptions darkened the sky, massive tsunamis crossed the ocean in crushing waves, and raging fires burned the land. Viral tribes of Neanderthals and early man considered themselves apex predators, but that crown belonged to Nature and she was intent on washing the two-legged blight from her lands.
In Balance of Nature, Book Three of the trilogy, Yu’ung’s Neanderthal tribe hopes to settle at Gibraltar but instead find unexpected threats and lethal challenges.
Follow the courageous Yu’ung, the determined Kazeb, the mystical Shanadar, and the pawed-and-clawed Canis as they navigate a perilous world of tribal conflict, unexplained visions, and shifting loyalties. Their journey is a testament to the resilience and strength of true leadership in a sweeping saga that ultimately leads to who we are today.
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular prehistoric fiction saga, Man vs. Nature which explores seminal events in man’s evolution one trilogy at a time. She is also author of the Rowe-Delamagente thrillers and Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. Her non-fiction includes 100+ books on tech into education, and a freelance journalist on tech ed topics.
Jacqui shares her thoughts about attending Writer’s Conferences.
I haven’t been to an in-person writer’s conference in a while. In the past, I attended two a year, one for writing and one for education (I’m a teacher-author). I’ve posted about preparation for these events and how they went (always felt exhilarated and motivated afterwards).
Problems with airlines, COVID, personal issues, and limited funds have all seemed to discourage me from attending of late. I chatted with efriends to get their feedback on conferences they had attended and whether they were considering more in the future. Here’s some of the feedback I got:
Yes if…
You’re seeking structured feedback on your work (many conferences offer pitch sessions, manuscript critiques, or agent meetings).
You want to network with agents, editors, or published authors in your genre (check the guest list—look for 3+ people you’d genuinely pay to meet).
You’re stuck in a rut and need inspiration/motivation (workshops + peer energy can break writer’s block).
The cost is <5% of your annual writing income (or you’re treating it as a tax-deductible professional development expense).
Skip if…
You feel like it’s a “pay-to-pitch” scam (red flag: high fees for vague “agent access” with no track record of sales).
The lineup is generic (“How to Write a Novel” by someone who’s never published one).
You’re introverted and hate small talk (virtual options or smaller regional events might be better).
You’re broke—wait for scholarships, early-bird rates, or free local meetups.
Great take-aways from attending one
the opportunity to network with like-minded people
the chance to pitch to an agent
getting away from the daily routine
gain expert answers to questions
hear up-to-date feedback on the status of the industry
This is a lot to think about. I don’t know if I’ll attend the next one coming up, but at least, I have some metrics to apply to the decision.
Jacqui asked me if I had ever attended a writer’s conference, and I have – the San Francisco Writer’s Conference for the last two years. Both were great but different experiences, and my take-aways align with Jacqui’s. Fortunately, this conference was local, about a half hour’s drive, so the travel cost was low. I regarded this event as ‘time for me’ so I stayed at the Hyatt Regency where the conference is held every year, and the convenience of taking the elevator to my room after the evening events was beyond awesome! I loved networking with other authors, learning about their writing and publishing experiences. I sold my books in the on-site bookstore. I met with agents and editors and gained valuable feedback. I lunched, wined, and dined with new friends. The fun began on Thursday and ended on Sunday, when I went home with a myriad of information. My brain was fried but in a good way! It’s not an inexpensive investment, especially, staying at the hotel for three nights. Although, if you can make it work, I would recommend attending at lease one conference that is convenient for you. There is so much to learn. Even so, Jacqui shared some good points that I agree with, so attending is definitely a personal decision.
As you head out today, I hope you’ve been inspired by Jacqui’s incredible storytelling and her passion for writing prehistoric fiction. I also hope you’ll pick up a copy of her book and, if you haven’t already, consider attending a writer’s conference. It’s a wonderful way to connect with other writers and spark new ideas.
Thank you so much for stopping by! I can’t wait to dive into Jacqui’s book later this year when life slows down a bit. And thank you, Jacqui, for inviting me to be part of your exciting book blast. It’s been a pleasure! ❤️
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 