“Cora’s Quest is a delightful story for young children with a clear message of thinking through difficult situations, remembering what your parents have taught you, and being courageous...”
Please visit Robbie’s blog to read the full review, and for another great book recommendation.You can also learn more about her fabulous poetry, photography, books, and incredible baking creations. Her latest book, Burning Butterflies, is available now on Amazon:
Thanks again, Robbie! I’m happy dancing! ❤️🙏 And thank you, dear friends, for stopping by on your way to Robbie’s blog! Have a terrific day! 💖
It was just the two of us for Easter, and we were running on spontaneity, but the day turned out to be lovely in so many ways. It began with an hour bike ride in the morning around the neighborhood and back to our kids’ elementary school. We have a lot of hills near our house, so we head for the flats! Although, we attempted more hills in the midst of the flats, executing them perfectly! We’re a little out of shape because of knee and back issues, but cycling is good for both, so we’re taking baby steps. But yesterday was a work out and it felt great! And we love this cool bench that sends a vital message for children…
After the ride, we headed south, enjoying a scenic drive along the San Francisco Bay. A seafood lunch called us, so we accepted the invitation. Afterwards, we walked around town, and for Easter, it was surprising to see all the shops open and the town hopping! (no pun intended) Spring flowers smiled at us around each corner, the sun was shining, but the temp wasn’t hot, even a bit cool with the breeze at times. It was sweet to see little children dressed up in their adorable Easter outfits. We saw a cute little girl in the restaurant randomly wish a stranger a Happy Easter. She had the biggest smile on her face. Precious! A beautiful day on the bay! And, we saw the Easter Bunny! How lucky, right? 😁
Redwoods on campusView from our table on the patio for lunchFerry ride, anyone? The fountain and sculpture in Tiburon’s Main Street plaza is called “Coming About“. It’s a kinetic sculpture with a nautical theme, featuring five abstract forms that move over an infinity-edged fountain. Tiburon in Spanish means shark, so these fins are representative of the town. A sight for smiles! 😂
And now for spring haiku:
warm temperatures grace our days with smiling blooms pass the tissue, please!
sending wishes for a bright, ‘sunny side up’ cheerful day for you!
I wish you a great week ahead, and as always, thank you so much for popping in to my little corner of blogland. ❤️
This photo evokes many great Easter memories, even though our son doesn’t look too happy! Looking back, I’m not sure how thrilling it was for our children to visit The Easter Bunny or Santa Claus. But at the time, it’s what we did for that iconic photo! Do you remember those times? I think when they were younger like our son’s age in this photo, they were more agreeable with Santa Claus!
Easter is a Christian holiday that marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion. Whether you believe in Jesus, or even if you’re concerned about the current political climate, Easter is also a fun day for children as they go on their Easter egg hunts. I always hope the rain will be kind to the children, letting the sun steal the show. I found the meaning of the Easter egg online: symbolizes the empty tomb from which Jesus resurrected, representing new life and rebirth.
Easter for Matt and I is quieter each year with our son and daughter living out of state, and our parents have both passed. My sisters are in Southern California and have their own families. We had always attended church, but we stepped away a few years ago when some members soured our experience. This had been ongoing, but we finally reached a point of making a decision. Then going to church changed to getting outdoors, spending time with nature…hiking on a trail, picnicking, walking on the beach, taking in all the beauty surrounding us and the blessings in our life.
So, I wish you all a Blessed Easter whatever you believe, and I wish you much love and joy not only on this celebrated day, but on every day to come. Spread the Love! 💜
A beautiful day for little ones running on lawns with giggles searching for pretty Easter eggs their bodies full of wiggles Sunshine high in the sky for this day of celebration smiling blooms of new life hopeful hearts of elation
My amount of time to read lately can be equated to the size of a pebble! I’m still working on my ‘Copper’ book while trying to read your wonderful blog posts, so I’m continually searching for more time. If you stumble upon some, even a dash, please let me know. 🙂 I managed to finish two great books though, different genres, but so good! I hope you don’t leave today empty-handed!
On the back cover it is written that “Not all heroes are known. Not all battles are seen” and after turning the last page, nothing could be truer. This encouraging book is compiled of ten incredible stories. My emotions stirred, and I was in awe of the heroes with fearless mindsets to help others. These human beings tested their abilities to achieve what might be assumed as impossible.
Each narrative was moving, but a few that stood out were “Chiune Sugihara, The Japanese Schindler” which tells of how one man provided an escape route for thousands of Jewish families during the Nazi regime. “Chen Si, The Guardian of the Bridge” speaks about a man who prevented many hopeless souls from jumping who saw suicide as their only option. “Babar Ali, The Boy Who Built a School” touches on a boy who believed that education should be a right and not a privilege. Lastly, “Dian Fossey, The Woman Who Spoke to Gorillas” tells of how a woman built a life-changing bond between her and gorillas that she found to be gentle and genuinely social.
Joy and sorrow both play a role in every experience – accounts of people who fought against all odds, persevering when moving forward seemed challenging. Sacrifices were required in order to initiate their ideas. These heroes weren’t wealth or fame chasers, and some circumstances were those that we can only imagine. Their accomplishments, tenacity, and passion to their causes demonstrate the goodness in humanity. These stories are life-changing, so I highly recommend this inspiring book.
I follow the author’s blog, but A Beggar’s Bargain is the first book I’ve read by Jan Sikes. Now I know it won’t be my last. The story is told in post WWII era which depicts not an easy life, but one where simple pleasures are truly enjoyed. Sikes creates strong characters in Layken and Sara Beth. You will grow to love them and root for them. Layken has been discharged from the army and vows to save his family farm in Missouri. He’ll do anything to honor his late parents, but the odds are against him. This heartwarming tale begins with a preposterous deal that he is offered. Times are desperate, so he should accept it or cope with the dying fate of his farm spanning over 200 acres.
The story reminds us to persevere and not give up, to remain hopeful, and to not lose faith. A Beggar’s Bargain touches on what it means to be a family, hard work, and ‘keeping your eye on the ball.’ And family doesn’t necessarily mean by blood.
When I finished the book, my faith in humanity was restored. All readers will resonate with the concept of staying determined while overcoming adversity because everyone endures hard times at some level. A moving historical fiction and feel-good story that I highly recommend.
And because I don’t post every day, I have to (shamelessly) share a new, amazing review for Cora’s Quest by Ritish Sharma.
5.0 out of 5 stars Such a sweet and uplifting story Reviewed in India on April 14, 2025 Verified Purchase
Cora’s Quest is such a lovely little adventure. Lauren Scott has written a story that’s both heartwarming and inspiring. Cora the fawn is so curious and brave that you can’t help but cheer her on as she faces her fears and tries to find her way back to her parents.
The writing has a beautiful flow to it, and it’s perfect for reading out loud with kids. The message about being brave, even when you feel small or scared, is something I think a lot of children (and adults) will connect with. The illustrations by Chris Mendez are full of life and add so much to the story. Knowing a bit about his background makes the artwork even more special.
Overall, this is such a sweet and meaningful book. Definitely recommend it for storytime or as a thoughtful gift.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thanks again to Ritish for his fabulous review! I am so grateful and I know Chris is too! Most importantly, it is great to know that Cora’s story is touching many readers. A children’s book, yes, but the message about ‘finding your courage’ is applicable to all ages.
I appreciate your visit and hope you enjoyed the reviews. Also, please don’t forget to place your orders! I ‘say’ this with a smile. 😊 Have a wonderful day! ❤️
My bicycle had met its fate a while ago, so we bought a new cruiser for me. Cycling is better for my back, and in addition to using the stationary bike in the house, we now have an outdoor option. We went riding Saturday and Sunday morning in cool, perfect temps beneath cheerful sunshine. Wind in our face felt so freeing! The same feeling my husband gets when riding his motorcycles. Heading to the kids’ old elementary and high school stomping grounds was our plan. Oh, the memories! I hope you enjoy the ride, and of course, the poem I had fun writing. Cheers to riding and writing!
Two wheels carry us Wind in our face Pedals in rotation A comfortable pace
Freedom in our bones Rolling through veins Blue sky umbrella Easy on the reins
Two campuses we sought Nostalgia in our minds Posters for council Blooms of all kinds
Well, hi, Mr. Bear, Looking massive as ever Don’t mind us as we coast by for pleasure
Cruising through corridors Memories flow Our children’s years learning With smiles aglow
2010, 2015 Fun graduation days Diplomas and celebrations Beneath sun’s rays
Painting of murals With colors so bright Language of art Beauty and delight
Quads work vigorously Uphill we pedal A fun ride behind us The greatest medal!
It doesn’t matter if we’re celebrating the best thing that ever happened, or staring at our heart lying on the floor in millions of tiny pieces. Time moves ahead (seemingly) as if we pushed the fast forward button. Those hands on the analog clock have a mind of their own, turning and turning, making our heads spin, wondering where the hours have gone. Where have the hours gone? How does a decade ago feel like yesterday? Why does my mind tell me I’m forty when my driver’s license tells me I’m wrong? Just yesterday, my daughter and son played with Lego and Barbies. Today they’re adulting, living with bills that show up in the mailbox on a monthly basis. Always prompt. Just yesterday, I took my last photo of our senior pup, not knowing it would be the last photo I would take of him. Right now, a man in his seventies is undergoing bypass surgery. Just yesterday, he and his wife were walking on one of their routine five-mile daily walks. Time is precious. Do we need reminding? We’ve heard it before, but have we ruminated on the concept, held it in the palm of our hand, massaged it, comprehending? This is the question as the conveyor belt of life carries us from here to there, wind in our face. But do we notice what’s in the middle? Because in the middle is what we shouldn’t miss.
We needed the getaway a couple of weeks ago, so I’m sharing some highlights. Luckily, our destination wasn’t too far, and driving the back country roads at this time of year was truly magical with the rolling green hills dotted with black and white dairy cows, not to mention, the umbrella of blue sky and downy clouds.
A curious guy!
The town was small but charming with just the right amount of excellent restaurants and quaint, quirky shops.
Cheers!
The best ever gingerbread latte!
Saturday morning, we walked through the old growth redwood grove, and as you can imagine, it was another enchanting experience.
“Preserve the trees, for they are the finest art.”
Then we were ready for some wine tasting, and the winery we chose gave us the best experience so far – Char Vale Vineyards and Winery. We lucked out with the weather on Friday and Saturday because Ms. Rain held the raindrops until Sunday. Her thoughtfulness allowed us some outdoor exploring on the main two days without messy conditions. Our palates enjoyed the elegant, fruity, and velvety notes, and the delicious adventure lasted about 2 1/2 hours, gracing us with a bright blue sky and cool but comfortable temps. We also had a good chat with the owners, a husband and wife team, who have been in the business for decades. Our knowledge about making wine expanded on this day, but don’t quiz me!
Lastly, we reflected a lot about our beloved Copper.
He enjoyed the season of autumn.
April 3rd marked one month since his passing, and one of my photos just happened to prompt a poem. It’s still in draft mode, but I’m sharing anyway…
March to March
Reminiscent of Elton’s circle of life, from March to March he arrived with youthful spirit and left with angel wings – our family for thirteen years, now glowing memories in the spaces and around each corner. We celebrate his life – those soul-searching eyes that connected to us – we were links in a golden chain, now one link is missing, our golden boy – tears still follow like a shadow – the shadow he was, but smiles gently find their place because he is in our hearts, because joy needs room to simmer.
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Thank you for popping in, and I hope you enjoyed the photos and poem. Have a wonderful week ahead. ❤️
Hello Everyone, we had a wonderful weekend away and I’ll share some photos later. But today, I want to thank Manuela Timofte, Editor of Gobblers at Masticadores, for publishing my poem “In Darkness there is Light.” A wonderful surprise on this first day of April. ❤️
Nighttime falls inside the doors of the beautiful hotel an experience to tuck away in my memory box Many sprint here and there following their agendas in the midst of mild chaos – some scrambling from point A to point B wondering what happens next or maybe they’ll discover a cozy spot like mine with a small, round table and chair in my private slice of darkness
An unexpected power outage doesn’t stop me Who doesn’t wish for a little light, but functioning without it… bring on the adventure!
As I look around in blackness and listen, words flutter nearby…
You can read the full poem by clicking on the link below:
I hope you’ll consider following Gobblers at Masticadores to immerse yourself into evocative worlds of poetry. And if you missed my original post of this poem, you can read it here.
Thanks for stopping by, and I wish you a great day and joyful new month! 💖
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 