When the sun descends behind emerald, rolling hills and evening offers all that it owns, my husband falls into a serious slumber in a matter of seconds – I am envious. It takes more than seconds for my mind to shut down, for thoughts to pause for an evening’s repose.
The flowers in our garden turn in for the night, and the smiles in their blooms wait for dawn’s greeting. Critters burrow in their homes, although darkness calls some to come out and play and we miss the show. Our dreams carry us through minutes and hours until night bids farewell, the cue for morning to slide into her spotlight.
And when she does, we witness again the glorious sun rising over those rolling hills, one more sky where clouds stay hidden, one more kiss from each other, the one who accelerates our heartbeats… when our children our home, they gift us with another hug, age is irrelevant…from babies to adults, their hugs are priceless like the moment we draw a new breath.
And don’t forget how nature delights with her offerings… our feathered friends sing their wake-up chorus of joy, bushy-tailed squirrels skitter along redwood fence tops. How do their tiny feet not miss a step, tumbling their little bodies to the ground?
So, we wipe the sleep from our eyes, gratitude flows through our veins, for all that was lost in the darkness has been found on this fresh, magnificent day.
Even though my blog break during the holidays was wonderful, while also toasting to my late Father-in-Law who passed in October, I have missed you all! I hope your holidays were filled with love, laughter, family and friends, along with good food and drink! When I was thinking about what I’d post for my return to the land of blogging, some prior content came to mind, so here we go again (a little revised)…
It seems time becomes more clever as we bid adieu to each year. Do the minutes and months feel more fleeting as we clink our bubbly-filled glasses on the last day of the year? Now that we’ve dipped our toes into 2024, is your list of resolutions hanging on your fridge by a favorite magnet? 😃
As I reminisce about last year’s glories and sorrows, I’ve concluded that resolutions may just be a thing of the past. This doesn’t mean that setting goals isn’t effective. It’s good to have projects to work on, to keep our brains stimulated, and it’s healthy to keep our bodies moving if goals include incorporating more physical activity or getting in better shape. So, as we ponder our new set of goals, let’s remember to reach for them at our own pace – don’t worry about what others are doing. Okay, let’s expand on this…
Here are a few words from the author, Kirsten Sevig:
“I decided to measure success in happiness, progress, wisdom, accumulating rejection and failure, resilience and determination, pride in my work, confidence, and comparing only to myself instead of to others.”
Since a new year is upon us, it’s logical to wonder if we’re on the right path to success. But define success. Do you measure success in dollar signs only? Have you compared your accomplishments to those of your friends or acquaintances then easily beat yourself up for not achieving as much? I’m not afraid to admit that I’m guilty of doing this because comparing is a common human behavior. But it’s not a healthy habit to continue. Comparing your success to others can cause a lack of self-esteem, and in severe cases, depression that can trigger a breakdown. I don’t compare anymore, and maybe with age comes wisdom, or perhaps, the notion of “I don’t give a sh*t!” Sometimes, we care too much about trivial things, so it’s up to us to shift our mindset – no one can do it for us – mind over matter, remember? Put your cares and energy into the right stuff!
I hope this wisdom enlightens your visions for this new year full of opportunities! And even though you and I may have read similar encouragement before, this affords us another chance to create a new year in our lives that will bring contentment and true happiness.
Below is a fun poem I wrote a few years back that I hope you enjoy again, or even for the first time, as we welcome a new class of 365 days:
There were… High points to celebrate Low points to tolerate Tears that flowed but eventually slowed Lessons to realize Adventures to feel alive Demons to fight Wrongs to right Goals completed Some deleted Yet, looking back we witness impact More time to forgive Another year to live Accelerate in high gear No invite for fear Pour the bubbles Forget your troubles Clink and Chime Celebrate Big Time!
KEEP ADVENTURE IN YOUR HEARTS!
It’s good to be back, and I look forward to reading your posts again! Happy New Year, and may 2024 be a good one for us all! 🥳🥂❤️
This past Saturday was the Celebration of Life for my dear father-in-law. The sun shone boldly in the vast, blue sky and the air was cold in the mid 50s. Not weather for shorts or flip flops, but truly glorious for this special December event. It took a village to make the service what it should be, and the village was successful. The speakers (including me), the music, the memories, and the reception following with delicious food and conversation reflecting upon this ‘gentle’ man who lived a little more than a centuryall flowed seamlessly.
Verses from one of my poems were printed on the back of the bulletin:
A Life Well Lived
Tears may spill into our days, but so do the memories and celebrations of a life well lived.
Our eyes are open to the legacy he has left and the yesterdays that were shared with him…
so, we will honor his wish… we will smile for our tomorrows.
About 90 people attended, so you can imagine the many stories gently weaving around each one of us as we talked about our father, father-in-law, grandfather, and friend. It really was a perfect day and we knew Wil was present in spirit, smiling and laughing along with us. My husband’s second cousin flew in from Idaho, and she is one crafty woman! She remindsme of my mom and mother-in-law who could skillfully sew, knit, or crochet anything!It was great to see her, but it was also fun to catch up. She’s been working on a new project – crocheting items for Random Acts of Crochet Kindness USA. (Members in this groupcrochetsmall, meaningful items that are placed in randomlocations in their communities for anyone to find. A thoughtful verse is included to brighten the finder’s.)
She brought some adorable and beautiful creations. Here are two that are reveling in the comfort and scent of our tree:
Traditionally dream catchers were made from a willow hoop or calabash covered with decorative fabric on one side and feathers on the other to be hung near a person’s bed. In this way, the dream catcher is said to protect people from bad things that happen in their sleep as well as bad omens during the day. (Googled)Meet Lorelai!
I have never heard of this organization, but any act of kindness is commended, and I can see how these handmade items would uplift the spirits of many people, especially during the holiday season when not everyone sings, “Joy to the World.” I’ve always loved dream catchers, and Lorelai is so adorable! How can you not smile when you see those purple glasses, vibrant colors, and cute, yellow beak?
Well, this post is coming to an end and will be my last post and day of blogging for 2023. I will visit as many blogs as possible today, but I apologize in advance for missing so many. Unfortunately, blogging has taken a back seat. Our son is home from his 7-month road trip, so we’re enjoying his wonderful presence, company, and humor, and even though Wil’s service is behind us, we’re in the middle of settling his estate and perusing his belongings where more treasures are surfacing.And we can’t wait to see our daughter and SIL for Christmas. I’m sure you can guess thatI’ll leave you with a poem, one from 2020, but words that still seem fitting for today…
A Christmas Soliloquy
The noble fir smells heavenly Pervading throughout the room Lights twinkle in red and green Adding to its festive costume.
Stockings embellish the mantel Eager to be filled with treats Garland graces letters in gold Spelling out P.E.A.C.E.
Dangling to model icicles, White lights sparkle on eaves Ornaments shimmer on branches All this, the stuff of dreams.
But can dreams still come true After this year, so displeasing? Amidst the tears and heartache, Is there room for believing?
I have faith that joy weaves Its way through the pain Angels keep watch while Love Is the magic that remains.
I don’t know your story The details are yours alone But I do wish you Happiness That you may seize and truly own…
As we listen to the marching rhythm Of the exultant Christmas drum For these holidays upon us And for the New Year to come.
Just click on the image to purchase your copy, and if you enjoyed this collection, please consider writing a review, a hug for indie authors. 💚
Thank you VERY much for stopping by, and I wish you a peaceful holiday season filled with lots of hugs, giggles, cookies, and carols. The gifts may be fun, but the people, the connections bring the most joy. Sending you all holiday hugs as I continue to keep those who are suffering in my heart.
I look forward to seeing you all in 2024!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!! 🎄⛄️❄️🎉 ~ Lauren ❤️
After more than three decades, my husband and I still recall and celebrate the events leading up to the “I do’s” that we said in Southern California on January 21, 1989. Today is one of those events…our first date 36 years ago. We were 26 & 27, and while some fine details have faded with the years…many stay rooted as little nuggets of ‘the start of us’. The amazing restaurant for dinner, Sycamore Inn, then driving up the mountain to The Lodge for dancing.
If you’ve followed me for awhile, you know I’m a romantic, and this night was pure magic. There was an aura of romance embracing us throughout the evening: over light conversation at the restaurant, on the slow drive up the mountain to the lodge, sipping delicious “Michelle’s Climactic Adventures.” Well, let’s face it, anything with Baileys Irish Cream is sinful and delectable! Then the dancing…we ‘rocked out’ when the beat demanded and held each other close (as if never to let go) when the tune slowed. We danced all night, taking a few breathers, stepping out onto the large balcony. The chill in the air felt good on our hot skin, and the view of the surrounding snow-capped mountains pulled us deeper into the enchantment.
December 5, 1987 turned out to be ‘our beginning’ because six months following, Matt drove me back to the lodge on a sunny June afternoon, and after riding the ski lift to the top of that mountain, he popped the question. Then six months after that romantic proposal, I walked down the aisle wearing satin and lace as he stood waiting for me, looking handsome as ever. And here we are nearing the end of 2023…grateful to still have each other and our two amazing children, who are now32 & 28 years old.
And of course, inspiration over the years found its niche:
Simple Existence
I stare at this page, milk white as the blanketed ground in winter’s staging.
Where are the syllables to create a mixture of magic?
I fear they have flown to faraway places, across desert dunes and boundless oceans and might not return so that I may tell him (again) how irreplaceable he is.
Instead, I’ll touch his lips with mine and steady myself in the arms of a man satisfied with my simple existence.
Love Note across a backdrop one star-studded evening a love note lingers
Belonging
Do you trust me? Will you take my hand and let me lead the way to a place transcending boundaries of our reality? Let us get lost in tranquility – dancing to the majesty of the surroundings, feeling rhythm vibrate through our bones. For as long as our hearts desire, this is our destination. Time is but a memory. Its existence leaves no trace on the path where we tread. There is only you, me, and the intensity of our belonging to each other.
Thanks for stopping by today, and let’s continue to celebrate the dates and events that remain joyful and significant in our personal stories! ~ Lauren ❤️
I hold my breath 2 seconds, maybe 3 electric jolt fleeting it came it went but my thoughts… trapped in the grip of those seconds.
Have you ever had a heart to heart with your mind?
Who wins in the end?
Have you ever dipped into contemplation about all the ‘whys’ floating in the ether, looking for a companion to make them complete like two intended lovers?
Next time the sun sets for another night’s repose, let your eyes turn to the blanket of stars, twinkling in their elegance.
Are they privy to some vital piece of knowledge that has not been proffered to us?
It seems those seconds necessitated another heart to heart.
With the holidays upon us, my memory can’t help but reel back a few decades. Our parents were still alive, all of their grandkids were young, and those big, noisy family gatherings for Thanksgiving and Christmas were anticipated with excitement. Sure, giving and receiving gifts at Christmas time is rewarding and fun (in that order), but what I truly miss is ‘the noise, the laughter, the chaos, the loved ones’ (section 2 of my book). And I remember when our daughter and son were precious little bundles of joy. The elation my husband and I felt when our family became 3 then 4, and then complete. Don’t misunderstand though – returning to the past isn’t my wish, I’m simply reminiscing. So, I’ve shared this poem before that you’ll find in the same section of my book. But because these images have come to life once again, I’d like to share it one more time. I hope you don’t mind, and perhaps, you’ll relate to my nostalgic frame of mind…
First Breath
With every new miracle of life answers aren’t scripted in the stars, but I knew since your very first breath my life would become yours.
Through innocent eyes and curious touch each new discovery you shared, your smile grew bigger than the sun, your heart’s elation declared.
You stowed dreams in the clouds, imaginings rose higher than the heavens. Cuddling you in that first euphoric light made me fall in love with you in seconds.
Life has blossomed into delight and wonder in every part of its glowing greatness, and with each ounce of my being, my enduring love for you is ageless.
I am thrilled to share another glowing review for my book, Ever So Gently, from Kaye Lynne Booth at writingtoberead.com. But first, here’s a little bit about Kaye:
She has been writing content on Writing to be Read since 2010, including book reviews, author interviews and reflections on writing. Her first novel, Delilah, was published by Dusty Saddles Publishing in 2016. (Recently re-released as a part of her Women in the West Adventure Series.)
To learn more about Kaye and to read her entire blog post, please click on the link below that follows her wonderful review:
Kaye’s Review:
For me, poetry is best enjoyed in print, where I can hold the book in my hands and leaf through the pages, taking in each poem in small doses, and revisting those poems which have sparked further thought in my mind. So, I was tickled to receive a print copy of Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry from author Lauren Scott. In this delightful collection, we hear the author’s confident approach to life, feel her inner appreciation of the natural world around her, and gain insight into value of connection with the people she loves and cares about.
Poetry is so personal, offering a window into the author’s soul, and EverSoGently does this beautifully. Many of the poems contained within resonated with me on a personal level. As a both nature and animal lover, the vivid images of the cautiously flitting hummingbird, a garden renewed, and beloved pets helped me to feel the moments described within each, as if witnessing or experiencing them.
Messages from the Sea
listen intently inhale, exhale, feel the calm your soul will thank you
secrets ride the waves ebbing, flowing in turquoise we are not privy
whispers in the surf ambiguous to discern relish in their song
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For Lauren Scott, nature is soothing, healing. I can relate with that as nature is also where I go for solace.
Chilling Embrace
I have been embraced by the chilling presence of loneliness. I have wondered where the niche designed for me exists in this world in which my breaths originate. I have waited for the glow to emerge behind the shadows. But when I take that soft step into the splendor of nature, listen to the trees whisper their sagacity, feel the flowing rivers move my pain, creating vast distance between it and me, I have been revived by the compassion that nature offers so unselfishly.
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But my very favorites were the poems in which she expressed her love of the written word, a love that I share, so can relate well with.
Books
Stories, poetry Compelling, transporting, entertaining Turning pages is exciting Paperbacks
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But my true favorite is the poem that shares the title the book is so aptly named for. In it I see clearly the author’s positive, grounded attitude toward life. A wonderful outlook, to be sure.
Ever So Gently
Sometimes we get lost in our thoughts… losing focus of the stars lighting up the night sky. We tumble too deeply into the frontal lobe, allowing negative thoughts to awaken, to throw a tantrum.
Remember, the breeze carries burdens down rivers and across oceans, majestic trees sway with joy, sheltering from shadows, and the light shines even if only a slight glimmer slips through.
Its glow will grow ever so gently into a bright beacon of hope rising with the golden sun bringing clarity to our vision.
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With her uplifting poetic verse Lauren Scott basks in the earth’s beauty, cherishes loved ones, ponders life’s mysteries. Highly recommended. I give Ever So Gently five quills.
Thanks again to Kaye for this beautiful review! I am delighted that she enjoyed my poetry collection because that is the ultimate wish…for the reader to find poems that resonate “as if witnessing or experiencing them” – Kaye’s words. My heart is full! And thanks to you who chose to visit my corner of blogville in the midst of your busy day. ❤️
I’ve analyzed over and over, but everything is a circle, spinning round and round, a kaleidoscope of confusion, nothing makes sense. Will it ever again?
Perhaps, it’s time for a stroll into the forest, time for allowing the breeze to embrace me like the caressing of a silk scarf, for the fragrance of the woods to fill me with reassurance.
I want to be touched by serenity, to walk among nature’s offerings and be immersed into the language of the trees, for the standing giants have a keen sense of awareness.
So I will consult them. I will bring into the openmy unease because they will unselfishly impart the depth of their logic.
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 