The Stars Align…

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews, Poetry68 Comments

While I was away from blogging, three more 5-star reviews gently flowed in for my book, Ever So Gently. These beautiful reviews added light to the initial reason for my break. And the true reward is learning how my poems resonate with others.
So for me, the stars align. ⭐️
Thank you again to Colleen, Robbie, and Miriam. I appreciate you all! ❤️🙏🏻

Another tidbit to share is that my son was recently visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, relaxing by Bear Lake at 9,500 feet elevation after a good hike while reading my book. You may remember that he painted the cover for me on canvas and also helped in the tedious formatting process. But he hadn’t read the poems. And my family is honest, so if there’s something they don’t like, they’ll tell me without hesitation (lovingly, of course). 🙂
Well, he absolutely loved the nature poems, and is currently reading the rest of the book. Fingers crossed, he feels the same way about part 2 and 3. Anyway, I love this photo he sent me and am grateful that my 28-year-old son is taking the time to read ‘his mom’s’ book. ❤️

And now for the wonderful reviews…

From Robbie:

Ever So Gently: A collection of poems is a beautiful memoir of the poet’s life and experiences, mellowed by experience and understanding, and told through carefully selected words. The poems are a mixture of freestyle and syllabic and share some vivid and delightful imagery that celebrates important moments in the poet’s life.

For me, the emphasis with this collection is on the softening of the poet’s attitude towards, and views, on life gained through experience and living. This message, reflected in the title “Ever So Gently” and the beautiful and peaceful cover, is wonderful and absorbing. Its subtle repetition throughout this book is like slipping into a warm bubble bath. It evokes the same delightful sense of peace and calm. My words must not be misunderstood to mean that none of the poems demonstrate moments of anguish and angst, as that is not the case. Those moments, that are so catastrophic and devastating to the poet at the time of occurrence are there, but their harshness is lessened through acceptance and understanding gained over the passage of time.

A few verses that I particularly enjoyed:

“A lone sailboat glides by
pausing for the unfolding.
With hair the color of an egret,
an older man leans against a stump.”
From The Sun Knows

“raindrops vacillate
layers hold their own secrets
delicate delight”
From The Peach Rose

“Each purl stitch was interwoven with love
from her gentle touch.
She, the teacher, me, the student,
as our bodies sank into the sofa
checkered in a 70’s palette.
From The Old Afghan

The two poems that I related to the most were The Mess and Young Campers, both about the poets children. This book is a celebration of life, the good and the less good.

From Colleen:

“Ever So Gently” asks us to accompany the author on a profound journey into the human condition seen through her own experiences. Scott has a way of making the mundane things in life a positive poetic event. That upbeat theme lasts throughout the book.

She split the book into three sections: The Wisdom of Nature; The Noise, the Laughter, the Chaos, the Loved Ones; and Lost in Thought. The author explores nature and how she relates to those quiet times when nature calls her name. The next section deals with the love in her life. The last section deals with the author’s deeper nature as she explores her feelings in greater detail.

I was surprised to see an excellent collection of haiku and other forms of syllabic poetry in the book. It was easy to connect with the variety of poems and themes. I enjoyed all of them!

I had two favorite poems. One was called “The Sign” and the other, “Ever So Gently.” Both poems are contemplative in nature, but filled with hope for the good things in life to enrich our lives.

From Miriam:

Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poems by Lauren Scott is a cozy and delightful read. I love the pastel color scheme of the cover. It conveys a soft feeling like the fluffy feathers caressing my skin. Her son Michael painted the cover on canvas. The title and the cover join in a beautiful harmony.

Even though this was an autumn evening, I snuggled in front of my fireplace, let the flames warm my face, and let Scott’s words warm my heart. By looking at the content, I knew gems were waiting to be found. This collection is divided into three parts. The first part touches on nature, the second part on relationships and loved ones, and the third part on thoughts in life.

Scott painted nature with her soft strokes. “Cottony clouds drift by. We want to move into them, feel their softness enfold us.” “Tiny threads of peace weave into the marrow of our souls mending any fretting that stirred.” “I wonder if pine needles wiggle in delight until they float to the earth…” The vivid imagery invited my presence in her natural world with the hummingbird, the sunflower, the peach rose, the lantana, the rocks, and the shiny shells.

Scott shared her joyous moments of meeting her husband and their newfound love. “Life has blossomed into delight and wonder in every part of its glowing greatness.” She missed her son and daughter, who were grown and gone. She would leave her son’s room messy to remind her of his presence. The days when the children were little were greatly missed. She reminisced about the younger days when her parents moved from place to place and she missed old friends. The old Afghan reminded her of the memory and wisdom of her mom. One Sunday afternoon, she had the last conversation with her dad. “His voice offers no response, silent for eternity, his body, a shell.” Scott’s memorable moments reminded me of my own with my husband, my daughter, and my parents.

The poem “Things I Know, Believe and Imagine” posted a valuable question. “I believe Love should remain the center of all humankind, but since hate continues to linger on the street, here’s a question to ponder… what should we do differently?” A Two-Wheel Getaway told a cheerful story of meeting biking strangers who became instant friends. The star poem Ever So Gently conveyed the message of hope.

“Its [star’s] glow will grow ever so gently
Into a bright beacon of hope
Rising with the golden sun
Bringing clarity to our vision.”

Thank you for visiting today, and I hope these touching reviews entice you into reading my collection.

To purchase your copy, simply click on the image above
or on this link: https://tinyurl.com/3ds4839u

Wishing you a wonderful Wednesday! 💙🩵💚

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

Book Reviews: Fiction & Poetry Something for everyone!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews68 Comments

Dear Family and Friends,

My husband and I lost the month of September due to our first bout with Covid. A mild case, thankfully, but one that lingered. Additionally, I lost reading momentum, but I’m finally, finally catching up. In the evenings when the sun has bid farewell and the sky begins to darken, I let myself relax while diving into another world whether it be a fictional setting or soothing poetry. When it comes to writing reviews, sometimes I fall behind, but I’m trying to write them soon after I finish a book. We’ll see if I stick to this system. 😁 Anyway, I’m sharing my latest 5-star reviews for some fabulous books, and maybe you’ll be enticed enough to leave with a few. If you click on the book covers, you’ll be transported to Amazon for purchasing your copy or copies. And now for the reviews…

The Shadows We Breathe – An anthology edited by Sarah Brentyn

I thoroughly enjoyed this anthology of short stories written on the overall theme of power. How is it used? Who triumphs and who suffers? This book is compiled with the excellent writing of eight women and is divided into three parts: Flash fiction (500 words), Micro (50 words), and Microbursts (10 words).

The introduction prefaces the intrigue: “Shades of darkness live within – it is the nature of being human. Our uncertainties, mistakes, anxieties, regrets…These are the shadows we breathe.”

Even though the stories are short, they are not flimsy in entertainment. They are well written, powerful, and deep, evoking a myriad of emotions. Some slide into a darker category where the authors skillfully create worlds we only dare to imagine. Each story is compelling and unique, so I am unable to choose a favorite. However, this book is for all fiction enthusiasts who are brave enough to meet the shadows head-on.

Deep in the Forest where Poetry Blooms by D.L. Finn

Deep in the Forest Where Poetry Blooms by D. L. Finn is a gorgeous poetry collection that takes you on a magical journey of exploration through the forest and landscapes of life. The poems are written in free verse, but you’ll also find syllabic poetry such as limerick, tanka, and haiku. If you are a fan of flora and fauna, you will surely enjoy this ode to Mother Nature. So many poems resonate with me, and I read them slowly to relish in their stunning imagery and depth.

The book is divided into two parts where Finn invites you to take a stroll with her through the seasons of the forest as we observe ‘Green new growth and Dawn’s blush (that) filters through pines’ while delighting in ‘icy winter day/yelling in glee on a sled/inner child peeks out.’ Following the everchanging seasons, you’re guided into the enchantment of the forest where ‘Forest fairies celebrate.’ While reading “My Magic” I felt a sense of commonality as though this poem was written for me. Every day, violence dominates the news, so I can’t help but feel like ‘my world (is) gray and heavy.’ This poem begins with a spirit that feels defeated, and then a most uplifting realization arrives at the end.

Once you leave the magical forest, you are transported to the tropics where Finn expresses how this setting can be healing as ‘the tide washes over my skin/pulling life toward/I sink into the wet sand/And become part of the cycle.’ I was impressed to learn that she wrote underwater poetry while snorkeling! A lovely example is ‘sea soiree/mingling with the fish/bring plus one.’

Finn digs deeper into personal emotions in the second part, sharing great advice in “Consequences” and reminding you of the enduring presence of hope in “Life’s Song.” Since my husband and I have traveled many country and mountain roads on his adventure bike, her mountain musings from the back of a Harley evoke breathtaking memories, as well as stirring up excitement for more exhilarating rides to come.
One of my favorites:

Distance

It took miles
Flying through the pollen-laden air
To get present within the moment.
My mind racing
Through each passing corner.
Then I slowly noticed
Emerald highlights the horizon.
Orange blooms within my reach,
Blue skies embrace me.
Nature’s hues lightened the day
As my worries drifted away.
We pressed forward into the unknown,
Distance became my harmony.

This collection concludes with a selection of Haibun, which is a new form to me. In “Magic Pages” Finn expresses how important her Kindle is: ‘I can barely contain my joy with so many words…’ And yet, you’ll be immersed into worlds of fantasy, you’ll feel love and grief, learn the truth, and of course, you’ll experience the magic and beauty of nature. Finn’s poems are relatable and elegantly written. A poetry collection that is good for the soul.

Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me by Abbie Johnson Taylor

Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me is the first book by Abbie Johnson Taylor that I have read, and I was thoroughly impressed with her writing. Taylor tells the story about a close-knit family – mom, dad, older and younger daughter, and the mom’s mother who is in a facility suffering with dementia. The grandmother who recalls events from years ago but whose short-term memory fails, shares a secret from the past with the older daughter without realizing it could tear the family apart. I felt compassion for the grandma because one of my family members passed away from dementia.

The chapters are written from the perspective of the family members: Daryl, Marti, Natalie, and Sarah, along with compelling supporting characters, and the story smoothly progresses from beginning to end. Taylor prompts the reader to question how this unsettling news would be received and handled in his or her own family. The story is engaging and well-written with surprising twists and turns. I found the characters to be authentic for their roles and ages, and the dialogue to be natural.

The reader will experience a variety of emotions as the plot unfolds, and there is a lesson to be learned after the turning of the last page. This book is for all fiction fans and for those who enjoy stories with a powerful message. I look forward to reading more from this talented author.

Broken Rhodes by Kimber Silver

I honestly can’t believe Broken Rhodes is Kimber Silver’s debut novel. It is so well-written and captivating from start to finish. I didn’t want to put this book down. It took me a few nights to reach the last page, but I could’ve finished in one if life hadn’t interrupted. Below is a glimpse into Chapter One that had me hooked:

“The morning sun peeked over his shoulder to light the way as he stepped farther into the house, but it did nothing to scatter the shadow that darkened this reconnaissance.”  
Silver created authentic dialogue, entertaining banter, and vivid imagery transporting the reader to Harlow, Kansas. The story offers suspense as a murder is under investigation, but it also includes family drama, and a love story that takes some nudging to get off the ground.  

Kinsley, the main female character doesn’t need a knight in shining armor to save her, but she inherits this tough shield from her mysterious past. Once I learned the reason for the toughness, it was easy for me to empathize with her. I always enjoy reading books starring an empowering female lead. And the male lead, Lincoln, is the handsome cowboy sheriff, but a real gentleman. Both characters are likable from the beginning. The supporting characters are just as believable, and a few you’d love to meet for coffee, but several who you could easily loathe and even fear.

Broken Rhodes is a gripping and compelling story, so I’m keeping my eyes open for Silver’s next book. And if you enjoy a good whodunit with a dash of romance, you’ll love this book.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you don’t leave empty-handed! 🤗
*Side note: the order in which I share the reviews, as well as the length of each one, is irrelevant to my ratings. All of these books received 5-stars and are highly recommended.

© Lauren Scott – Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.

To buy your copy, please click on the
image. Thank you!

Thank you to those who have purchased your copy of Ever So Gently,
and who have shared beautiful reviews. 🩵

I always appreciate your visit and wish you a Terrific Tuesday! 💜💜💜

Redwood Magic

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry67 Comments

My hubby and I recently visited our favorite park to hang out with the redwoods. As always, a poem was to be born, but this time, two…I’m sharing a few photos along with the poems that I hope you enjoy and maybe even relate to. Does one speak to you more deeply than the other? I’d love to hear your thoughts…

Magic

We needed
magic today,
an elixir
for our spirits,
so our favorite park
sent gentle whispers
on the autumn breeze
as we listened
with intent.
Just a short drive
on long stretches
and some winding
like an S.
We slowly enter
into this sanctuary,
another universe.

The enchantment
of redwoods
whirls around us,
a balm for our
hearts and minds.

We stroll along
the glistening creek,
observing the brilliant blue
from sun’s reflection.

The majesty
of the tall giants
embraces us –
a moment, a place,
an experience
good for the soul.

Their Gift

Do the redwoods
feel sorrow and elation?

Can they sense the heaviness
in our hearts as we wander
through the grove?

We may never know
the answer, but being
in their presence
deters thoughts that
shouldn’t be let loose.

Their majestic aura,
a protective embrace,
welcomed as we inhale
their delicate fragrance
of earthy undertones.

I feel the beat of my heart
slowing – a calm flowing
through my veins.
He experiences the same.

Fingers entwined, we stroll
among the tall giants,
a family connected
through deep roots,
and we offer our
sincerest gratitude
for their selfless gift.

© Lauren Scott – Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.

To buy your copy, please click on the
image. Thank you!

Thank you to those who have purchased your copy of Ever So Gently,
and who have shared beautiful reviews. 🩵

Thanks so much for dropping in today! ❤️

Finding peace…

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Discussion, Poetry116 Comments

Dear Friends,

I hope you’re doing well. Our family has been spending as much time as possible with my father-in-law who is nearing the end of his life. He is on hospice, living in a lovely facility with the best care. It has been difficult to witness his body failing, but the silver lining is that spending more time with him has been a gift – these moments have given us room to prepare for the inevitable. When he is lucid on occasion, the gift is even greater.

Writing poetry during my break has been soothing. This surreal experience has been emotional for all of us, but if it inspires me to write, my husband feels it’s a beautiful thing. I was motivated to try a Haibun for the first time after reading D.L. Finn’s gorgeous poetry book, Deep in the Forest Where Poetry Blooms. I loved her collection and will share a review and a couple others in the next few weeks.

This piece may not qualify as a Haibun, but it’s a beginning…

The Last Days

The outdoor temperature feels like a summer day in August though ghosts and goblins lurk around the bend. The orange ball shines brilliantly lighting up the clear blue sky. But inside his room, death awaits in the corners – a dreary atmosphere until we turn on lights to uplift our spirits. Classical music drifts out the windows, swirling around the trees and gardens still bursting with reds and oranges. Photos of family and friends, and ball caps from favorite sports teams embellish the bare white walls.

He lies in bed each day, body frail. A vision we hope will fade over time. A vision contrasting to the man who hiked mountains. The small clock ticking on the bedside table and the calendar hanging on the wall irrelevant. His words, an untranslatable language. His appetite, diminished, but it’s time for breakfast, so we pull the lids from each tub. He slightly opens his mouth like a mama bird feeds her chick, and we gently hold the spoon so he can take in tiny bites of pureed eggs and oatmeal. The tubs still look full, but so is his stomach. Sleep calls him. His chest slowly moves up and down with soft breaths. We stretch out this moment, then we lay a kiss on his forehead, tell him that we love him and that we’ll see him later. We steal one more glance at Dad, then we slowly walk out the door with tears struggling for freedom.

a routine until
he slowly draws his last breath
preparing our hearts

**A Haibun is a combination of prose and haiku, and usually includes autobiography, diary, essay, prose poem, short story, or travel journal.

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

To buy your copy, please click on the
image. Thank you!

Thank you to those who have purchased your copy of Ever So Gently,
and who have shared beautiful reviews. 🩵

Thanks so much for visiting, and I look forward to reading your posts again. ❤️

Break Time!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Discussion

It’s time for me to focus on some things in my personal life, which means a little break from blogging. I’d like to say I’ll be sipping coffee again with hubby in the mountains, but that’s not the case. When life pulls with a firm grip, we get the message. I’m not sure how long this break will last, maybe a week, maybe more. But until I see you again…

Take good care. Keep an open mind, and try to find joy even in tough times.
And thank you for spending time in my corner of blogland.

~ Lauren ❤️🍂🍁🧡

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.
Photo: Sierra Nevada Mountains

To buy your copy, please click on the
image. Thank you!

Thank you to those who have purchased your copy of Ever So Gently,
and who have shared beautiful reviews. My heart is full of gratitude. 💙🩵

Comments are closed.

Book Promotion/Review -Fusion: Poems of Life by Balroop Singh

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews, Poetry67 Comments

I am delighted to feature Balroop Singh’s latest release, Fusion: Poems of Life. This beautiful collection of poetry is about enduring the struggles, reveling in the joys, and knowing that one can’t exist without the other. If you haven’t met Balroop, I suggest you visit her beautiful site, Emotional Shadows.

To purchase, please click on image.

BOOK BLURB:

Fusion is the elixir of life. We seek it in every aspect of the cosmos. The magic of fusion manifests itself in the colors of dawn and dusk, in the melodies of nature, in the singing of birds, in the miniscule moments of joy, inspiring us to live in harmony with each other despite the edges that threaten to swallow us.

The poems in this collection are an amalgamation of harmonies and edges that bind us firmly. We have to wade into murky waters to measure the depth. We have to risk the heights to know our worth. Slippery snow makes us learn how to create footholds. Some songs of life dilute in the hourglass of time to erase the shadows – dark or light, all the colors play an equal role to create a fusion.

MY REVIEW:

Fusion by Balroop Singh is truly medicine for the soul. I’ve read several books by this author, and she never disappoints with her excellent writing. This book is a lovely poetry collection consisting of over eighty poems broken into three parts: Harmonies, Visceral Vibes, and Edges. I enjoyed reading the poems over a few evenings. Singh implores us to embrace the harmonies in spite of the edges that attempt to knock us down. These edges can build up clutter in our minds, but she expresses how harmonies provide the magic to soften them. I suggest you read slowly to absorb her profound messages, stunning imagery, and creativity that stirs up an array of emotions. I have too many favorite poems to list, so I’ll highlight a few…

The first poem, “Colors of Life” is a great beginning because of the inspiration it offers: “Ashen and gray may jolt us/but life keeps its smile/if we let the clouds pass/And revel in starry delight.”

While reading “Hugs” I am reminded how special an embrace is, and how this simple, yet comforting gesture was stolen from us during the lockdown of the pandemic.
Who would’ve imagined?

Singh’s adoration for nature resonates as I love spending time in the outdoors, especially in the mountains with only a tent to call home. These lines from “Together” evoke memories of the tranquil and adventurous times on the trail with my husband: “A power that we discovered/In the mountains/A power that enchanted us/Lost in the wilderness/But blessed to be together.”
And I could almost hear ‘the pine tree twig nudge the other’ in “Unknown Ties.”

In this fast-paced world filled with chaos, the whimsical imaginings in “Bliss of Solitude” bring a smile:
“To fly on the silvery clouds to touch the horizon/To soak in the glory of gossamer rain drops/To sing with the wondrous wind that frees my spirit.”

Her words paint pictures that are simply exquisite, such as in verses from “Just Pause.”

I stepped out on my patio
I was amazed
To see that the sun had descended
On earth!

It happened to get stuck
In the pine tree
That turned golden,
Wrapped in bright yellow.

I will remember this gorgeous image when I observe the miracle of another sunset.

Singh prompts us in “When” with profound questions that we’ve all contemplated: “When will the sun paint the sky with colors of kindness?”

Even though Singh’s poetry is personal, many of the poems ring true with my experiences and ideas. I highly recommend this lovely collection for those who enjoy beautiful poetry, and who might also need medicine for the soul. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

MEET THE AUTHOR:

A former teacher and an educator, a passionate reader, a published writer, I have always lived through my heart. My students have been my true inspiration and I have learnt many lessons of life while teaching them and interacting with them through discussions. Youngsters are like a breath of fresh air and you can speak your mind and heart spontaneously in their company. Their idealism and innocence always gave a new hope to me, strengthening my belief that our future is in safe hands.

I am a great nature lover, I love to watch birds flying home. The sunsets allure me with their varied hues that they lend to the sky. I can spend endless hours listening to the rustling leaves and the sound of waterfalls. The moonlight streaming through my garden, the flowers, the meadows, the butterflies cast a spell on me. Like the busy modern people, competing with each other at a breathtaking speed, I have also spent the best part of my life in pursuing all those chores and am so glad to have all the time for myself now.

I have all those blessings that a person can crave for. Happily married for 40+ years, I have four lovely grandchildren. I love to travel, read good books and poetry. My friends have always called me optimistic though I have my share of murky times. I draw my inspiration from people, which has become a habit now, may be because I have spent a lot of time in the company of students and parents whose observations helped my imaginative aspect. A published poet and author, I’ve written six poetry books and three non-fiction – self-help books. Visit my Amazon author page: goo.gl/X1NEFf

This blog is all about people, their emotions, how emotions mould personalities and what is our role in all this.I am here to share my thoughts and experiences in my pursuit of happiness.

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you’ll leave with a copy of Fusion: Poems of Life!

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

Click on the image to purchase
your copy!

Thank you to those who have purchased your copy of Ever So Gently,
and who have shared beautiful reviews. My heart is full of gratitude. 💙🩵

An Autumn to Remember

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Stories59 Comments

Stage IV lung cancer echoed in her mind – her kind doctor said last week with a heavy sigh. She smoked since her teens, enjoying each inhale, so this grave news wasn’t a surprise. But she was young, fifty-nine, with so much love to give. Yet, she was elated with the special news her son and daughter-in-law shared today. A grandma for the first time. How lovely. But with the chilly rainfall came her last breath, and the precious baby girl would arrive later when the leaves gently create a blanket of gold. There will be two lives to celebrate.

© Lauren Scott

My latest collection of poetry –
I prompt you to reminisce and reflect on your past, present, and future.
Through the ups and downs, what matters most is to love and live ever so gently.
Please click on the link to purchase your copy.
Thank you to those who have bought a copy and who have shared wonderful
reviews. My heart is full of gratitude. 💙🩵💙

Thank you for visiting today!
~Lauren ❤️❤️

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.
Photo: our yard a few seasons ago

Sally at Smorgasbord Blog Magazine features Ever So Gently!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews56 Comments

Dear Friends,

Sally at Smorgasbord Blog Magazine is always so kind and generous to support authors in promoting their books, and I’m thrilled that she featured my latest,
Ever So Gently.
If you haven’t met Sally, please visit her site. She is a pillar in this wonderful community. Here’s what Smorgasbord Blog Magazine is all about in Sally’s words:

“Smorgasbord Blog Magazine was the follow on to a physical newsletter that I published every month for two years, on subscription to listeners to my radio show.. I expanded the original format which was mainly health articles, to including book marketing, music, humour, lifestyle, cookery and food and short stories. My aim was to create a watering hole that provided a wide number of topics to chat about….This has now developed further to provide a platform for other authors to share their work. This year the blog celebrates twelve years, ten of them as Smorgasbord Blog Magazine.”

In this series authors were invited to share an excerpt of 500 words from any of their published books .

Submissions are now closed for this series but there will be another in early 2024.. My thanks to all who have participated.

Today I am sharing a poem by Lauren Scott…from her recent release Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poems.

About the collection

In Ever So Gently, Lauren Scott shares her strong link to nature, taking the reader on a tranquil walk through a redwood grove. You’ll find an invitation to sit quietly on a patio, captivated by the simple beauty of a hummingbird. She’ll entice you to revel on the shore of a freshwater lake, mesmerized by its stunning beauty.

Scott shares how love has shaped her life. From that first delicious kiss to celebrating decades of marriage through a love that deepens over time. How her heart melted when she became a mom, then ached when her children started their adult lives across country. And how her adorable canine companions found their way into her heart.

Scott underscores how life presents mysteries we struggle to solve. We can’t help but ponder the deeper meaning of a simple vision. She prompts you to reminisce and reflect on your past, present, and future. Through the ups and downs, what matters most is to love and live ever so gently.

Book trailer created by Robbie Cheadle with my photos.

One of the poems from the collection in honour of Lauren’s father-in-law:

She Listens

He cares for his father whose body tires,
pain raging at cyclone force
from one hundred years of living a lifetime.
Yes, one hundred years! We were thrilled
to celebrate this monumental milestone,
but our emotions undulate –
who wishes to watch a loved one suffer?

Another week of work comes to an end.
With glass of wine in hand, we exhale
on the patio. Then the sun says,
“Good night, my dear friends,” as he
descends, making room for the moon.

And when the moon appears, Oh, my!
She takes our breath away!
Bright and bold as if she senses
we could use light in our souls.
She pays attention,
but most importantly, she listens.
And though the stars act a bit bashful,
they eavesdrop, and we are fine that they do.

The moon and stars hear us,
just an ordinary couple enjoying
a Friday evening but with heavy hearts.
Their absolute attention, imagine this,
out of all eyes gazing at the brilliant sky –
we know the moon’s lustrous presence
is for us alone.

Then we rise from our seats and head into
the house, feeling relaxed from the wine’s
fluidity, and appreciative that our troubles
have been received.

©Lauren Scott

One of the reviews for the collection:

Balroop Singh 5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant and relatable  Reviewed in the United States

Scott’s poetry celebrates memories and moments in her latest collection – ‘Ever So Gently.’ Her connection with the surroundings blends into the wisdom of nature that unfolds through stunning imagery like: “hear the rustle of a skittering squirrel,” “petals of velvet invite raindrops to bask in their peach enchantment,” and “breeze carries burdens down rivers.”

From the birds that ‘flit and flutter’ to build their nest to the owl who proclaims his presence with his ‘high-pitched toots’ and the hummingbirds that flutter around the “bright pink petals” – all find a place of honor in this book to delight your moods. Lauren’s realism captivates and appeals to all the senses. Some of her poems express profound love that we cherish and yearn for – she tells you how valuable that love has been in her life.

From ‘The Peach Rose’ to ‘Firestorm’ and not to forget ‘I Was Adopted,’ her poetry slides most naturally on the wide canvas of creativity. However, poems that speak of love, of growing up and bonding are the ones that touched my heart. Who can ever forget ‘The Old Afghan,’ which is most relatable!

I haven’t read a more beautiful description of sunset – “The sky explodes in tangerines, salmons, canary yellows – brighter with every second. It’s as though a painter swished her brush back and forth…”
Some more examples of Scott’s brilliant style:
“And water hasnt caressed the hills
The earth, parched like Chile’s Atacama.”
“Silk-thread drizzles dusted rooftops and parched hills.”
“How he tenderly tiptoed through the syllables.”(I could feel the poignancy of the emotion)

A combination of free verse and syllabic poetry like haiku, tanka, etheree, shadorma etc. this is a lovely collection of poetry. Read it slowly to savor each emotion.

Head over to buy the collection: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Lauren Scott

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Website/Blog: Baydreamer – Facebook: Lauren Scott Author

About Lauren Scott

Lauren Scott is a poet and writer of short stories, both fiction and reflections of her life. She enjoys small-town living in Northern California with her husband, Matthew, and their lab, Copper; they have two grown children.

She has authored two collections of poetry: New Day, New Dreams (2013) and Finding a Balance (2015). In 2021, she released her memoir, More than Coffee, and her latest book is a poetry collection, Ever So Gently, that was released in July 2023. Her poetry has been published on Spillwords Press, and she was voted author of the Month for May 2023. Lauren is a contributing author in the anthologies, Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships (2022) and This is How We Grow (2023).

She has recently finished her first children’s book and is working with her illustrator, planning to publish it in early 2024. Her writing inspiration comes from love of family, spending time in the great outdoors, and finding joy in the simple things.

Thank you for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books.. Sally.

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Thanks again, Sally, and thanks to you who have purchased my book
and who have written wonderful reviews. The happy dance continues
and my heart is full of gratitude. ❤️❤️

Smorgasbord Free Book Promotions 2023- Share an Excerpt from one of your published books – #Poetry – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poems by Lauren Scott