#CopperBookUpdate ❤️

On July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Books, Poetry131 Comments

Dear Friends,

My goal to publish this special book last month obviously didn’t happen. Sometimes, I wonder if the editing will ever end. I’m working on Ingramspark, and this week I will progress to the next step for them to review. Then I’ll have to see what comes next. I toyed around with various title ideas, but then ‘King Copper”‘popped into my mind and it lingered like a warm hug. He was the king in our house, and you can tell in the cover photo below that he wore the crown well and looked so handsome. What a gentle 80-lb giant he was. Sigh.

Anyway, now I’m hoping to publish King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry this month. But we’ll have to see if any glitches jump in the way. I believe the editing is finally done. With this being said, unless we make last-minute changes, this is the final cover. The dark chocolate color scheme ties into Copper’s mixed chocolate lab breed. Other shades of brown just didn’t work. I also like the idea of dark chocolate, a rich beginning into this poetic journey of Copper’s wonderful life. I hope you like the cover too.

More updates will follow regarding the publishing date, and life sure is interesting, isn’t it? You know this book wasn’t planned. But I had already written joyful poems about Copper when he was with us, so when he passed in March, I began writing poetry for therapeutic reasons. He was my 3rd child, and even though he was elderly, his passing was “still too soon.” Reading this collection of poetry will take you on an emotional roller coaster from joy to grief to acceptance. And sharing our life about our beloved senior pup will hopefully provide comfort to everyone who is also grieving the loss of their pet, or has done so in the past.

A poem from the book…

Will you?

Will you remember us
when you cross the rainbow bridge
where grass stays emerald green
high upon the tallest ridge?

Will you wait for us
when our time for crossing arrives
to be a family once again
filling the hole in our lives?

But before we reunite
be your happy, playful self
run and sniff, no pain, be free
your joy and freedom is our wealth.
❤️

Sending love, and if you have a furry family member, give them a hug for us. ❤️

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Available on Amazon, and Barnes & Noble,
but click on the image to purchase
your copy through Amazon.💜

Saturday Serenity

On July 12, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry67 Comments

Under the redwoods,
we slide into a zen-like state –
letting the magic flow gently
into our presence
bringing inner peace
to mind, heart, and soul.

“One can never get enough of redwood charm to fill the need for harmony within oneself.”

Wishing you all a peaceful weekend, and I truly appreciate your visit. 💗

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Orange Splendor

On July 8, 2025July 8, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry108 Comments

Dear Orange,

I am…

Overwhelmed jubilantly by your
Radiance relieving uncertainty
Along the path of unknowns
Not once drifting off-course
Giving unselfishly of your essence
Emotions shift in your presence

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Oh, how you delight with your happy state
Reliable in your everlasting contribution
Awe is a natural reaction
Never taken for granted
Growing from your vibrant message
Effervescent way of spirit-lifting

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I…

Observe soft petals that grin
Raining positivity on passersby
Ambience to daily reside in
Noise silenced so peace becomes the
Glue for a healthy well-being
Elixir from nature’s gift basket of magic

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Do you have a favorite? The 1st, 2nd, or 3rd, or all 3? 😊
Does ‘orange’ make you feel the same?
If not, what is your spirit-lifting color? 🧡

Thanks for gifting me with your presence today,
and please keep the families affected by the
Texas tragedy in your hearts. ❤️

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A “Bug-tastic” 4th!

On July 6, 2025July 6, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Celebrations, Poetry83 Comments

This 4^th of July carried a less celebratory tone, although freedom isn’t to be taken for granted. Consequently, we continue to honor those who serve in the U.S. military, both in the past and present, in order to protect our freedoms. I don’t normally ‘talk’ politics here, so I’ll leave out the gory details of our emotions. But if you felt the same this weekend, then you’re able to read between the lines. With this being said…

Fun at the county fair deflected unsettling thoughts as we immersed our minds into the ‘bug-tastic’ theme. Ladybugs, bees, butterflies – a terrific trio that does good for the ecosystem – deserved to be in the spotlight. A beautiful butterfly landed on my husband’s sleeve, such a remarkable moment that it brought tears of joy. And there are no words to describe what it feels like when one of these graceful insects rests on your finger. One thing for sure though, breathing is paused. Our early arrival meant a short Ferris-wheel line. Pod #1 was our ride in the sky. I held my hat for fear of the sun-protecting accessory flying into the wild blue yonder. My hair blew every which way, but miles of smiles also took flight. The views were spectacular, a painter’s masterpiece of an annual county fair with humans looking like armies of ants. Once on solid ground, the animals called. How could we not feel love? Tiny, cuddly, furry babies to ooh and ahh over. A sheep got a haircut, “baa-ing” because maybe he didn’t like the experience. But he probably felt relief in the summer sun once that thick layer of wool was removed. Dollars evaporated as we supported cool vendors. Bonsai trees received our admiration – lovely in their miniature forms, especially, two gorgeous bougainvillea. Once a year fair food entices, a savory and sweet indulgence for the palate. We even bought a funnel cake to go so that smaller portions would be possible. Just a taste is all it takes. A summer strawberry sinfully delicious delight! The sun watched over the crowd that would grow later in the day, but the golden orb complied, didn’t smother with intense heat. A little breeze shadowed us from here to there, keeping pleasant company. A margarita and rum punch hit the spot when the sun sat higher. Picnic tables with a sea of umbrellas in lime greens, petunia pinks, and turquoise invited us to sit, enjoy, and people watch. Time mystifies, because hours later, all the desired stops were checked off, so it was time to walk through the exit gate, no hand stamp. We were good for the day.

county fairs welcome
all ages one to beyond
free your inner child

My souvenir, a Henna tattoo. I love
butterflies, so it fit with the theme. 🦋

We didn’t stay for the fireworks show, but we have many times in the past. So, the fireworks photo is from a July 4th show on TV. 😊. I hope you enjoyed this haibun/prose, along with the photos from our 4th festivities. And if you live in the USA, I hope you had a fun and safe celebration. 🎆 As always, thanks for popping in to my corner of blogland. Have a wonderful week ahead! 💙🤍❤️

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Blue

On July 3, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry91 Comments

Blue sky whispers words of tranquility
Each syllable falls like a leaf in autumn
Open your hands to the wisdom,
cold-shoulder the noise whirling around,
causing a bottleneck of worry
Let the sun’s rays seep into your soul
flowing gently on its journey,
pulling you from edges of despair
Let the warmth calm the chill
that strives to take possession

If your heart is broken,
take time in picking up the pieces
just tap into the strength deep inside –
the jagged edges are dull to your skin,
you’ve been cut before so now you’re tough,
the sight of red doesn’t shock you into paralysis

Each fragment tells your story,
and you matter
The pieces in all their
perfect imperfection
will fit perfectly again

Remember to follow the blue
keep your eyes looking upward
because the blue holds hope,
and moving forward is impossible
without even a glimmer…

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Thank you for stopping by today! ❤️

Gobblers by Masticadores invites The Positive Potato for a visit!

On June 30, 2025June 30, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Gobblers by Masticadores, Poetry

I had a hunch this potato with a playful personality did some traveling, but now it’s obvious! He’s spending time with Manuela Timofte over at Gobblers by Masticadores! I’m thrilled because this cute little guy spreads smiles and joy, and we all could use more, wouldn’t you agree? Thank you, Manuela, for continuing to feature my writing, whether my words offer food for thought or entertain. I’m honored, as always. ❤️

Comments are closed because I hope you’ll visit Gobblers and give some love to Manuela! It’s so easy! Simply click on the link below. And I also invite you to leave a comment if you feel joyfully compelled. 🥰

A Potato with a Playful Personality

I thank you for popping into this playful potato post (smile),
and I wish you a lovely day, and a great first week of July!
Sending virtual hugs! ❤️

***Photo by Marcus Wu00f6ckel on Pexels.com***

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A little ‘me’ time

On June 29, 2025June 29, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry102 Comments

I recently spent a few hours at one of our county parks located in a cove off of San Pablo Bay. A beautiful day, but a little windy. Regardless, I enjoyed a deli lunch, a walk on the pier, the tranquil scenery, reading beautiful poetry by D.L. Finn, and of course, writing some haiku. Hope you enjoy the pics and poems:

a gaggle playing
sunbathing and conversing
year-long residents

sun comes out to play
wind joins in summer respite
hooded walk on pier

Observations

(a)

pickle ball on court
tennis in shorter version
healthy exercise

(b)

lost in the repose
boats floating on bay look like
dots in the distance

(c)

water entices
let’s take a refreshing dip
cold down to the bones

(d)

children dig in sand
for shells, stones, and crustaceans
treasures for their hearts

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***An older photo courtesy of my son.***

By the way, today is the last day to vote if you haven’t already. My poem “I Am From” is a nominee for Publication of the Month at Spillwords Press. Please click here to read the full poem from my last post.

So, if you have time, you may vote here. A Huge thanks to you who have already cast your vote. I’m honored by your support. ❤️

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Thank you for stopping by, and I wish you a fabulous week ahead!
Can’t believe July is just around the corner! 💖

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.
Note: Geese in a group on land or water
are called a gaggle.

“I Am From” is nominated for Publication of the Month at Spillwords Press!

On June 26, 2025June 26, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Nominations & Awards, Poetry108 Comments

Dear Family and Friends,

I am thrilled to share with you that my poem “I Am From” has been nominated for Publication of the Month by Spillwords Press! This recognition is an honor, especially, to be in the company of many talented writers. A huge thanks to Dagmara, her team at Spillwords, and to you for your amazing support by visiting Spillwords and giving my poem a ❤️ and/or leaving a comment. I appreciate you! 💝

Voting has begun and will conclude on Sunday, June 29th. I am asking for your support, but in order to vote, you’ll need to log in or register here: https://spillwords.com/vote/.

The winning publication will be prominently featured on the Spillwords.com sidebar throughout the entire month of July, gaining well-deserved recognition from our global audience. Below are the nominees:

I Am From

I am from my mom’s emotions
that had a mind of their own
so wild at times emulating a summer storm
I am from my dad’s humor
where smiles bloomed
but his temper too in my less patient moods

I am from flower petals I did not plant
Mom’s were nurtured – my thumbs weren’t green
yet the petals’ beauty is always seen
I am from butter, sugar (granulated and brown),
vanilla, baking powder and soda,
and nuts, yes, sometimes this is the case,
and chocolate chips in their tantalizing ways

I am from the moon in her mystery
The sun in his radiance
The lake in its serenity

I am from the well-liked and the shunned
the self-doubt lodged on my shoulders
the redwoods standing tall
I am from planned and spontaneity
clarity and ambiguity

I am from the Big Bear cabin on the corner
from laps and splashes in Orange County pools
I am from “When you have children, you’ll understand”
I am from two sanctuaries for finding God
to discovering faith near mountains and sand

I am from me
unique, quirky, strong, kind,
a used-to-be people-pleaser
the third of three daughters
I am from knowledge still pouring in
like a flood of surging waters
I am from gratitude for every little blessing
from those I love, from being loved
I am.

(Inspired by the poem “Where I’m From” by George Ella Lyon)

It’s never easy to ask for support, but I hope you’ll take the time to vote by June 29th, which you can do here. Thank you in advance, and I express my gratitude again to Dagmara and her amazing team at Spillwords for continuing to feature my work. It’s a privilege to be a part of her wonderful literary community. ❤️🙏

***Photo by George Dolgikh on Pexels.com***

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.
All Spillwords photos and nominee list
courtesy of Spillwords Press.