Tag: Books

Friday Fun!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Books56 Comments
Photo by Anthony ud83dude42 on Pexels.com

A couple days ago, Nicole at Starry Steps, surprised me with her delightful review of Cora’s Quest. But before I lead you to her review, I want to share about her beautiful books:

I loved this poetry collection and gave it 5 glowing stars:

“Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara is the author’s debut poetry collection, but you wouldn’t know it. Reading through this stunning gathering of poems is like strolling through an enchanted forest, which ties into Nicole’s words, “…the magic of nature’s rustle and long dreamy flights of imagination…”

You can read the rest of my review on Amazon and Goodreads or here.

I also just recently finished reading her latest release, The Blues and the Beautiful, which felt like another stroll through an enchanted forest. I’ll share my review along with others before Christmas. Date TBD. 🙂

Both of Nicole’s beautiful books are must reads, so I encourage you to add them to your holiday shopping list! And now, for her delightful review of Cora’s Quest:

“Cora’s Quest” is a sweet story about a baby fawn who loses her way in the woods when she notices a caterpillar and being fascinated by it, she stops to say hello. Suddenly finding herself alone in the forest, Cora has to overcome her feelings of fear without the company of her parents, and find a way to stay calm in order to gather her courage and strength.

This lovely children’s book by Lauren Scott is beautifully illustrated, so little children will be able to enjoy the story being read to them while looking at very cute colorful images of Cora’s little adventure…

Dear December… & Two Book Reviews Today 😍

Additionally, Nicole shares her fabulous review of Too Much Fun to Be Legal by Nolcha Fox and Barbara Leonhard, which I also recommend! Please visit her blog to read the full reviews of both books. And I invite you to write down these titles on your holiday shopping list, or type them into your cell phone.
On Cora’s adventure, she learns a valuable life lesson that will resonate with all ages, even adults! 😊

A huge thanks again to Nicole for her lovely review and big heart in supporting fellow Indie Authors! ❤️🙏

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Thanks for popping in today, and Happy Friday!
Wishing you a fabulous weekend too! ❤️🎄

We miss Copper this holiday season, but
we’ll find comfort in the photos of him by the tree,
wearing a Santa hat, or snoozing by the fire.
If you’d like to order a copy, or know someone
who would find comfort in this special collection,
please click on the link. Thank you. xo

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
Author and poet, Lauren Scott, enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their adult son and daughter live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, the family of four remains close. Lauren has published four poetry collections, a memoir, and her first children’s book. Her latest poetry collection is a tribute to her family’s Chocolate Labrador who crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in spring 2025. Lauren is a recent Pushcart Nominee and has been a guest on several podcasts. Her writing is featured on Spillwords Press where she was voted Author of the Month and garnered Publication of the Month awards. She is a contributing author in several anthologies, and her work is also shared on Gobblers and Masticadores. Her muse discovers inspiration from her family, spending time outdoors, reveling in simple things, and marveling at the mysteries of life.

Wynne & Vicki invite me again to be a guest on their podcast, “Sharing the Heart of the Matter”

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Books57 Comments

I’m thrilled to announce that I’m a guest for a second time on the wonderful and warm podcast Sharing the Heart of the Matter with Wynne and Vicki, and it’s live today! These amazing women are a dynamic duo. They create a relaxing environment, and even when the topic is an emotional one, they make the chat a fun experience. Another huge thanks to Vicki and Wynne! ❤️

Episode 127: “King Copper” with Lauren Scott

Here are some ways you can listen and watch to the full episode:

Thanks to you who have read King Copper, allowing our beloved Copper to touch your hearts.
And I hope our conversation touches your hearts as well, if you have time to listen. 🧡🌈

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Have a wonderful weekend ahead, and thanks so much for stopping by! ❤️
Photo by Vicki Atkinson
© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com

Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡

Lauren Scott
Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025

A Bright Light

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Books, Poetry81 Comments

From the hugs, cuddles, and games of fetch, Copper learned he could trust us. And so, he became family. For thirteen years, he gave us unconditional love. He crossed over the rainbow bridge this past March. It is serendipitous to know that he came into our lives in March and left our earthly world also in March – the month of new beginnings. He was a bright light in our lives that will shine eternally. This is the power of our dogs or any pet. They leave a positive, long-lasting imprint on our souls. (Part of the Preface)

Available on Amazon (click on the image above to purchase from Amazon)
Click on the links below for B&N and Kobo:
Barnes & Noble,
e-book only on Kobo,
or if you’re local, you can find a copy at Copperfield’s Books on 4th Street in San Rafael.

On the same shelf with Mary Oliver!

He Carries On

A copper-colored coat he dons
Looking handsome as a celebrity icon
A senior now
Gray on his brow
Even with pains, he carries on.

My Shadow

Feeling empty in my bones
walking from room to room,
where is my shadow?



I hope you’ll let Copper touch your heart like he’s touched so many already. Or perhaps, you have a friend or family member who would find comfort in reading my book. A Huge Thanks to You who have read this special poetry collection and left beautiful, heartfelt reviews. ❤️🤎🧡

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
Lauren Scott
Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025


“Here’s Johnny!”

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Discussion, Photos, Poetry97 Comments

When we were visiting our son in Colorado, one place on his itinerary was Estes Park, and it’s in Estes Park where The Stanley Hotel is located, which is where The Shining was filmed, based on the book by Stephen King starring Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall. Although, the brilliant author disapproved of the film adaptation by Stanley Kubrick, even so, our walk around the grounds and inside the hotels was fascinating.

I’m not a horror fan, but I watched this genre in my teens. And yet, some images stick with me like super glue, unlike my husband who enjoys these movies for their creativity, costumes, and makeup, and who doesn’t take them seriously. Those horrific images that follow me through life such as from The Exorcist and The Amityville Horror are why I don’t watch them anymore. 😳 But now I’m going to contradict my words because I remember The Shining, vaguely, and I kind of want to watch it again now that we’ve walked through the hotel. Note, I said kind of.

“Honey, maybe we can watch The Shining on Halloween night,” I suggested. “But I need to have at least one light on.”

“Sounds fine, but I wouldn’t want any lights on. Where’s the fun in that?” He replied.

No decision between wife and hubby has been made yet. TBD.

There are several properties on the grounds, and we arrived in the evening, checking into our hotel, then enjoying a delicious dinner at The Post Chicken and Beer restaurant. We stayed at The Aspire which is part of The Stanley Hotel, so as guests, we were able to walk throughout the campus. I believe the hotel above is where the interior shots of the movie were filmed, but don’t quote me. I’m not versed in the history or details. Lights around the trees created a magical experience while we did what tourists do.

Can you tell I love lights?

Pulled from the hotel website:

Discover historic elegance and natural beauty at The Stanley Hotel, founded in 1909 by F.O. Stanley. Nestled in the heart of stunning Estes Park, Colorado, our iconic hotel is just minutes away from the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park and conveniently accessible from Denver Airport.

Immerse yourself in the rich history that inspired Stephen King’s masterpiece, The Shining, as you explore the corridors and rooms that echo with tales of the past. But The Stanley is more than a literary landmark – it’s a destination for unforgettable experiences.

Explore our diverse offerings, from a number of tours to magic shows, concerts, and exceptional dining experiences. With 41,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space, The Stanley is also the perfect backdrop for weddings and gatherings, making it one of the most sought-after venues in the US.

Whether you’re captivated by history, the allure of nature, or seeking a touch of magic, The Stanley Hotel beckons you to an extraordinary escape where each moment is timeless. Choose from four unique experiences for your stay: The Stanley Hotel, The Lodge, Aspire Hotel & Spa, and The Residences. Book now and embark on a journey where history and hospitality converge, creating lasting memories in a place unlike any other.

For the sake of October’s festivities, here are some quotes from the movie (besides, “Here’s Johnny!”:

  • “Sometimes human places, create inhuman monsters” 
  • “The world’s a hard place. It don’t care. It don’t hate you and me, but it don’t love us, either” 
  • “Redrum” (written on a door, which is “murder” spelled backward) 
  • “I and others have come to a belief, that your heart is not in this. That you don’t have the belly for it,” said Delbert Grady to Jack. 
  • “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” 

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I hope you enjoyed reading about the historic hotel, and the photos from our trip. If you’re a horror flick fan, kudos to you! You’re braver than me! I’m too much of a scaredy-cat! And believe me, if we watch The Shining, I’ll win! At least one light will be glowing! 👻

Happy Friday, and have a goosebump-good weekend! 🎃

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com

Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡

Thanks for stopping by, and I wish you a beautiful day! 💙

Lauren Scott

Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025

A Sunday Surprise!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Books60 Comments

When I opened my email this morning, I was pleasantly surprised to find Thomas’ post where he shares his amazing review of King Copper. More gratitude is what I feel, and I’m thankful to say (respectfully) that the support just keeps coming. Thank you again, Thomas, for reading my collection about Copper, and for taking the time to write such a moving review. 🙏

Our beloved Copper Boy

The Life of a Dog named Copper by Thomas Wikman

Copper, a rescue Chocolate Lab, was picked up from a foster home in March of 2012 by a loving family and in return they received 13 years of unconditional love from Copper, who turned out to be a quite remarkable dog. This touching and beautiful book recounts his life in the form of poetry. What better way to tell the life of a dog, than through poetry. Some of the poems are from Copper’s perspective and some of them are from the author’s perspective. Some of the poems are fun, some speak of love, and some speak of grief. I think that everyone who’s ever owned dogs will recognize themselves in this book. I certainly did.

Dogs have personalities, they can express themselves, they are innocent, they are fun, they are loving, they can sense your mood and feelings, and they want to comfort you when you are sad. They love you and they can do amazing things, and they are part of the family. All of this is beautifully expressed in this book. This is a heartwarming book that will leave no heart untouched…

To read the full review, please visit Thomas’ wonderful site by clicking the link below:

Dog Poems of Love and Grief

Thomas also wrote a touching book about his beloved Leonberger, Bronco.
I loved this book and am currently working on my 5-star review. ⭐️

So, if you’re a dog lover or cat lover, or pet parent in general, Thomas and I have books that will touch your heart. ❤️❤️

Thanks for dropping in, and I wish you a lovely week. 🧡🍁🍂

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Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor at Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025

King Copper brings more 5-star reviews from Sally and Ernie! 🤎🧡

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

I’m grateful for more reviews for King Copper, and when a fellow blogging friend shares his/her review on their blog, I want to post it here to direct you to their site. Sometimes, I’ll reblog a post, or because of timing, I’ll combine. Either way, the gratitude feels the same! ❤️

So, to begin with, a HUGE Thanks to my friend, Ernie at dawgydaddyresponds for his dashing review! Ernie also offered a great stop on the blog tour for which I appreciate!
Below is a snippet from Ernie:

Starting this book off the last stanza in “Copper Boy” speaks volumes to me.

He just loves in his simple way,
And we love him back,
And that is simply enough.

Looking at Coppers’ pictures you’ll see nothing but love in his eyes, ok maybe mischief too. Ninety-one years in dog time he trained his four human pets and had them sharing a dogs life of adventurous fun as witnessed in “Guard Dog”. “Young Lab” had me laughing, wondering what the scene was at bath time.

Lauren effortlessly takes us form the joy to sadness as “Sweet Face” turns the corner of feelings. “Will You” brought a sadness to me and reminded me of my dog Doc, it is a very touching poem and one of my favorites...

Please click on the link below to read the rest of Ernie’s review, and take time to peruse his site if you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting him yet. Thanks again, Ernie!

Coppers Review

And if you’re looking for a poetry collection that “explores the messy beauty of the human heart” check out Ernie’s book. Ink Stained Love is a beautiful collection – one of my favorites that rests comfortably in my bookcase. My review is on Amazon and Goodreads.

Lastly, a HUGE Thanks to Sally at smorgasbordblogmagazine for her lovely review. All of the reviews have brought tears of joy, knowing that my poems and Copper are touching the hearts of so many. How can I ever express the true gratitude I’m feeling? Sally also promoted my book during the blog tour, and again, I’m so appreciative!
Below is a snippet from Sally:

Those of us who have had pets, know from the outset that their lifespan is not the same as ours. We can only hope that the years they are with us will be filled with love and fun for them and for us. 

This collection of poems about the wonderful King Copper, is not just an expression of grief at his loss, but a wonderful celebration of his life. His goofiness, and ability to sense the mood of those he loves, as he sprawls, dances and makes mischief. 

The family are so lucky to have enjoyed this devotion for 13 years, and the love they experienced will stay with them all their lives. The hardest decision is of course that final act of love to put an end to pain and suffering, but it does weigh heavy on the heart. 

However, this collection also brings hope, that just maybe we will meet up again and if we are lucky…

Please click on the link below to read the rest of Sally’s radiant review, and again, take some time to peruse around her amazing site if you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting her.

Smorgasbord Book Review – #Family – King Copper: Our Dog’s Life in Poetry by Lauren Scott

And if you’re looking for a reference book for losing weight, staying healthy, and learning the science behind the foods we eat, Sally’s book is for you! She also inserts her own personal, inspiring story. Another favorite of mine resting in my bookcase, and my review is also on Amazon and Goodreads.

Thanks so much for stopping by.
I hope you’re leaving with ‘a book or two in hand’
and I wish you a weekend full of hope and
love in your heart. ♥️

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Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor at Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025

Highlights to Showcase!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Books, Discussion, Poetry76 Comments
Photo by rovenimages.com on Pexels.com

There is so much happening that gives reason for celebrating in the midst of still missing Copper. I don’t normally remember my dreams, but I dreamed about him the other night and it was vivid. Just an ordinary day with him trotting around the house, “nails clicking on the floor.” Anyway, I am so grateful and humbled by the beautiful reviews that are flowing in for King Copper. Thank you to those who have shared your heartwarming thoughts. ❤️

I also want to share the great news that my dear friend, Maggie, at Ephemeral Encounters, has been nominated for Author of the Month by Spillwords! And my good friend, Ernie, at The Dawghouse, has been nominated for Publication of the Month for his poem, “Little Mouse.” Way to go, Maggie and Ernie! 🎉

I encourage you to cast your vote for these two amazing writers at https://spillwords.com/vote/ and voting will conclude on August 29th. 🗳️

On another note, writing reviews seems to be a slow process for me. I should get in the habit of writing the review right after finishing a book. But no…I can’t stop reading, therefore, the books pile up and so do the reviews waiting to be written. That’s currently where I’m at. But having an abundance of books to read is the best problem, right?

And my latest selection include the following 5-star reads:

Gratitude & No Fairy Tale by D.L. Finn
Honeysuckle Heat by Michele Lee Sefton
A Noble Bargain by Jan Sikes
Cade’s Quest by Linda Broday (Jan’s sister)
Endangered Species by Jacqui Murray
Embracing the Power to Live by Marsha Ingrao

So next month, I’ll share my reviews! In the meantime, I hope you’ll check these fabulous books out!

Let’s keep those TBRs towering! 😂

And let’s not forget my TBR:

I’m currently reading a wonderful book: The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Lowenhohle by Thomas Wikman
and in the lineup are:
Sam, A Shaggy Dog Story by Sally Cronin
The Bush Devil Ate Sam by Curtis Mekemson
Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara

I’m sure the lineup will grow as fast as I’m typing! 📚

Lastly, I’d like to share an earlier, beautiful review of King Copper by Jan Sikes:

Processing Loss in poetic form
Reviewed in the United States on August 10, 2025
Verified Purchase

I shed more than a tear or two as I read this beautiful tribute to King Copper, a chocolate lab that gave so much love and joy to the author’s family. The poetry is heartfelt and poignant. Some of the poems speak of the happy times and some of the deep sadness at Copper’s passing. He came to their home in March with youthful spirit and left in March gaining angel wings with 13 years in between. This is a touching story of unconditional love. Here is an example of poems that touched me deeply…

Young Lab

There once was a friendly, young lab
With energy delightfully fab
He loved belly rubs
Hated baths in the tub
He gave big, toothy smiles, never sad!

My Shadow

Feeling empty in my bones
walking from room to room,
where is my shadow?

Those are just two very short examples of the deep heartfelt poetry in this book. The photos of the deeply cherished Copper and his family are an added bonus. If you’ve ever experienced the pain of loss and struggled to find a way to carry on, I recommend this short read to help you process. It touches on the reality of grieving and how hard it can be to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Yet, we do, as the author shows us.

Thanks so much, Jan, and a huge thanks to you who have shared your reviews on your blogs (I’ll reblog soon), and/or on Amazon and Goodreads. I am grateful beyond words! ❤️

This wraps up the highlights, so hugs to you for stopping by!
I know you have a million blogs to read and support like I do,
so your time here is appreciated! Have a spectacular day! 💖

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡



Gobblers by Masticadores welcomes King Copper!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Books, Gobblers by Masticadores36 Comments

A huge Thank You to Editor, Manuela Timofte, for sharing the initial post about my new release, King Copper – A poetic account of the joy that arises when a lovable chocolate lab walks into your life and changes it forever. And the eventual heartache you feel when he crosses over the rainbow bridge thirteen years later and still too soon. I’m always honored to be featured on Manuela’s beautiful site along with many talented writers. 🙏

“But today isn’t about feeling sad, bittersweet, yes, but this day is for my family and I to celebrate Copper through this special book. We can ‘see’ him frolicking with his friends in a magical place where pain doesn’t exist, only lush green meadows, redwoods, cheerful sunflowers, smiling daisies, ladybugs, and butterflies. It’s about believing…“

To read the entire post, please visit Gobblers, and if you haven’t subscribed, I hope you will. Manuela shares evocative poetry and stories from a myriad of talented authors. Thanks again, Manuela! ❤️

King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry 
Image by Jacqui Murray
Photo by alleksana on Pexels.com

Thanks for dropping by, and I wish you a fabulous day! 🤎🧡❤️
Now that the blog tour has ended, I’m going to work on
finishing overdue reviews for some great books. 🙂

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡