I was thrilled to find another fabulous review for Cora’s Quest this morning from my good friend, Beth at https://ididnthavemyglasseson.com/. She includes the subtle significance of Cora’s story that is not only for children, but adults would find it important too. A huge thanks to Beth! I’m celebrating and happy dancing once again! 🎉💃
An excerpt:
On her journey, Cora learns that along with the joys come challenges, as she begins to navigate the world around her, remembering the lessons her family has taught her, and gaining confidence along the way, finding a final happy resolution. What a wonderful book to read to your child and what great discussions could follow.
To read her full excellent review, click on the link below, and if you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Beth yet, you’re in for a treat. Below is a peek into who she is:
Hello, I am the mother of grown daughters, with grandchildren galore, an enthusiastic dater, a lover of the arts, a teacher, a cupcake maker, a Twister and Trivia champ, and most of all, a keen observer of life. I enjoy being a part of the twists and turns that occur while wandering through everyday events. Many of these happenstances leave me asking, “Why?” While I have been told, more than once, that the reason things have or haven’t happened in my life is because I had no glasses on, rest assured that even if I did have my glasses on, the answers would quite often be unclear. This site is simply an observation, and while blurry at times, an honest attempt to make some sense of it all. Enjoy the ride – Beth
Please pop into Beth’s world to read her fabulous review:
Lastly, I want to thank everyone who has supported me by purchasing a copy of Cora’s Quest and who has shared their lovely review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. I am grateful beyond words! ❤️🙏
Thank you for stopping by and have a wonderful day! 💝
“Cora’s Quest is a delightful story for young children with a clear message of thinking through difficult situations, remembering what your parents have taught you, and being courageous...”
Please visit Robbie’s blog to read the full review, and for another great book recommendation.You can also learn more about her fabulous poetry, photography, books, and incredible baking creations. Her latest book, Burning Butterflies, is available now on Amazon:
Thanks again, Robbie! I’m happy dancing! ❤️🙏 And thank you, dear friends, for stopping by on your way to Robbie’s blog! Have a terrific day! 💖
On March 7th, Brian from https://writingfromtheheartwithbrian.com/ wrote a post that will bring a smile. He talks about the wonder of children’s books and how they show us what is “right and good in the world, and what is real.” Brian was kind enough to include my book, Cora’s Quest, but because of Copper’s passing, I wasn’t in the mindset to share. My heart still aches, but today is a better day to reblog.
Thanks again, Brian, for including Cora and your amazing review in your inspiring post. I’m so grateful, and I hope the students in your wife’s class love reading about Cora too! 🙏
I’m sharing Brian’s review below, but please click on the blog link to read his full post. Other children’s literature is mentioned that will evoke great memories.
Looking for a little courage
For example, when police investigations into the New Orleans truck attack that killed 15 people and the Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas dominated the news in January, I found myself reading fellow blogger Lauren Scott’s children’s book Cora’s Quest. (Lauren can be found on her blog, Baydreamer Writes.)
In Scott’s wonderful little book, fawn Cora gets separated on a wooded trail from her ma and pa. When she looks up from investigating a fuzzy caterpillar, her parents are gone. She starts to worry about being in the big forest all alone. Of course it gets scary. The tree branches look like they’re reaching out to grab her. Have you been in the woods in the dark? It can be a scary place. She can feel her tummy rumble and fear “trickle from her nose to her hooves.” I was right there with her.
Despite everything, she stands firm and reminds herself that “My body may be small, but my courage is big.”
When she thinks she can’t bear it anymore, her parents come from behind a bush. Of course, the three kiss and celebrate. They hurry home to feast on apples and acorns. If we ever needed a reminder to be courageous in the world, now is the time. Everyday some new problem comes out of the woodwork and the world seems minutes from calamity. Despite it all, little Cora shows us the way. “My body may be small, but my courage is big.”
What a great reminder. I can’t think of better advice. Yes, you go Cora! Lauren’s writing is touching and the colorful images by her illustrator Chris Mendez jump off the page. It’s perfect for young kids and the young-at-heart like myself. Be sure to check it out.
And if you don’t know Brian, check out his blog! He’s a wonderful writer who shares his thoughts and experiences in a way that entertains and engages, and usually prompts a giggle!
Thanks for stopping by, and I wish you a wonderful Friday and weekend! ❤️🙏
I’m not good at this. It’s a bit uncomfortable. However, it’s a vital part of an Indie Author package. So, the moment has come to do a promotional post for my book, Cora’s Quest. I don’t have the backing of a publisher (not yet), so every little ounce of promotion makes a difference. Are you still with me? I hope so! And just so you know, I don’t publish books for money. My expenses outweigh any profits. 😳
I publish books as my legacy for my family, but there’s another reason. ..Sharing my writing regardless of the genre gives you a glimpse into my heart and soul, while hoping that my experiences will touch you in some way.
“Courage is the most important of the virtues, because without it, no other virtue can be practiced consistently,” ~ Maya Angelou
We all have goals that we list in a journal or on our computers, and as we complete those goals, we check that box off which gives us a great feeling of accomplishment. So, publishing Cora’s story that has sat patiently on the back burner for years feels incredible! Currently, I’m working on another children’s story that I plan to submit to an agent or small kid-lit press mid year. Cheers to 2025 goals and meeting them! 👏🏼
Now, one tidbit of valuable information I learned at the San Francisco Writers Conference is that even if an author has an agent and a conventional publisher, the author is still expected to promote that amazing, best seller book! Thus, authors need to step out of their comfort zones to promote their own work!
“If you’re not getting outside of your comfort zone, then you’re not growing.”
“Life begins outside of our comfort zone.”
I’m writing this from the heart…if you have little ones, if you know someone who has young children ages 2-5, or if you’re a grandparent with grandkids in this age range, I hope you’ll consider inviting Cora into your family. Or if you’re an adult and the weight of the world is bogging you down and you need an uplifting quick read, Cora would love to spend time with you. 🥰
Click on image to purchase your copy!
I’m also thankful for the awesome 5-star reviews Cora has received on Amazon and Goodreads!! 🙏 I’m sharing a couple from D. L. Finn and Pete Springer to hopefully entice you. Please click on their names to visit their wonderful blogs and learn more about their books. Additional reviews can be found on my page, or on Amazon and Goodreads. D.L. Finn 5.0 out of 5 stars You’ll want to read this to your younger children! Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2024 Verified Purchase
Cora’s Quest is a sweet story about a deer’s family outing. Cora is enjoying the forest until things change quickly, and now she needs to find her courage. A fantastic story to read to your little ones or for young readers to enjoy. The illustrations are beautiful and full of color, and the story is woven into a lesson that will resonate with children and their families. Here is an engaging passage: “An owl hoots/from its lofty perch./ The wind howls,/swirling around Cora./Grunts and growls/in the distance/steal her courage!/ They act like thieves!” I can easily recommend this story for young readers and those who read to them.
Cora is a curious fawn who loves to explore but sometimes is easily distracted by things in nature. When she get separated from her parents, Cora is first overcome with fright. One’s imagination can play tricks and at first it’s hard for her to act. Even though Cora is lost, she remembers the lessons her parents taught her that size doesn’t determine anyone’s courage. It is the ability to keep a calm head and to be brave which allows the the fawn to find her parents.
Poet Lauren Scott has written a wonderful picture book with an excellent lesson reminding children to think clearly in a crisis and not to become prisoners of fear. Scott’s nephew, Chris Mendez, adds to Cora’s story with his delightful illustrations. There is an inspiring note in the illustrator’s notes about how he has used art therapy to help himself and others to overcome issues with anxiety.
Click on image to purchase your copy!
If you’re captivated by now and would like to purchase a copy, simply click on either the front or back cover image that will gently carry you over to Amazon. For another option, the B&N link is https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/coras-quest-lauren-scott/1146540878?ean=9798218408756. I highly recommend the paperback so that your little ones can experience the full magic. 💖
And lastly, if you love Cora’s Quest, please consider sharing a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. You’ve heard it before, “Book reviews are like hugs to authors.” And who doesn’t like a hug? 🤗
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR STOPPING BY, AND FOR SIMPLY SPENDING YOUR PRECIOUS TIME WITH MEAT BAYDREAMERWRITES, 💜 AND I WISH YOU A HAPPY MONTH OF MARCH! 🌻
I will be away at the San Francisco Writers Conference beginning tomorrow through Sunday and may or may not have time to get online. If not, I will see you next week! On a side note, if you’re looking for a fun Valentine’s gift for your little ones, my first children’s book, Cora’s Quest, would be a great option. 😍
Click on the image to purchase your copy! Thank you!
Okay, this short update has concluded and I’ve turned comments off. So, have a wonderful rest of your week and weekend ahead!Stay safe! Be happy! 😊 And remember…
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.“ ~ Nelson Mandela
Copper gets colder in his older years, so he appreciates the extra warmth.
Back in December
There I sat, sipping Chardonnay, reading Celebrating Poetry by Cindy Georgakas, background noise was college football on the tube. I heard my husband cheering for his team. We sat together for an hour, talking about our days and the Christmas holiday to come. Couldn’t wait to see the kids. Then I wanted to get back to the book, and football was calling his name loud and clear.
I sat there as my dog snored, curled up on his gray, plush bed, the heat purred, keeping us warm, and the multi-colored lights on the Christmas tree glistened, occasionally winking at me.
A peaceful night – some would say unexciting. Ahh, but it’s the simple pleasures that become the biggest blessings…
After a January that brought shocking tragedy, the simple things become true gifts. For on that night in December, I had a loving husband to share an evening of wine and conversation, another holiday to celebrate, my senior puppy, heat to keep us warm, a roof over our head, a live Christmas tree to enchant us, music on our retro stereo, a great book to get lost in, a TV for entertainment at our fingertips, and homemade lasagna in the oven…
And so, as a new month begins, we continue to take one day at a time, to keep the victims of those tragedies in our hearts, to not let hope get lost in the shuffle of chaos, and to remember that we are fortunate to have these huge blessings.
I shared my 5-star review of Cindy’s beautiful book in a prior post, so please check it out if you missed it.
Click on the image to purchase your copy. 🙏
Recently, Cindy was kind enough to surprise me with her wonderful review of my book, Cora’s Quest. So, please allow me to relish in her delightful words:
First of all, the cover is endearing and the story of Cora will surely delight every child that sits on your lap with wide open eyes, begging you to read it again and again. The best news is you will enjoy reading it to them when they say, “again” after the 10th time. Lol. I have 2 grandchildren 17 months old and both of them love “reading this book” (moreover, pointing at the different critters in the book). These are cherished moments when they are soaking in the world around them in these precious and formulating years and what better way than to introduce them to adventure and the trials and tribulations of life when veering off the path. Although they don’t understand this concept yet, they love turning the pages and haven’t ripped one yet. That is truly a win. In the meantime, the illustrations are beautiful and captivating as they are learning to talk and say “deer”. My hats off to you Lauren on a new genre which is near and “deer” (pun intended) to our hearts! I highly recommend stocking up on them for birthday parties etc. ~Cindy Georgakas
Thank you again, Cindy, for this wonderful review! I am thrilled that not only your grandchildren loved ‘reading’ about Cora, but that you loved the story and illustrations too! 🙏
Subject change…Do you have an event coming up that you’re looking forward to? Let me know in the comments because I do! Four months ago, I registered for a writer’s conference, and it seemed like years away. All of a sudden, it’s next week, Thursday through Sunday, and I’ll be staying at the hotel for the entire conference. I can’t wait to soak up information and gain more knowledge from the workshops I’ll be attending. This is my first writer’s conference, so I’ll finally be able to check it off my bucket list. I’m sure I’ll share with you some great takeaways later this month! ✍🏻
Changing the subject again…When each month ends, do you sing the same old tune like I do? “I can’t believe another month has passed by!” And here we are, Welcome February – the month of hearts and love, but not only for the romantic soul, but love for families, friends, and for all people! I’ve always loved hearts and all kinds of jewelry: silver, gold, a variety of gem stones, etc., so here are a few hearts that I wear…
As you move on from here, I hope love resides in your heart, joy blossoms, and challenging times lessen. I know it’s tough to keep up while reading all the amazing blog posts in this warm community, so please know that I appreciate you stopping by my corner of blogland in your busy schedule! Enjoy your weekend and stay safe in all you do!
When I opened my email this morning, I was surprised to find this exciting note from Dagmara at Spillwords Press (photo above courtesy of Spillwords):
Dear Writers,
We hope this message finds you well. We’re reaching out to share some exciting news—your outstanding pieces have garnered nominations in one or more categories for the 2025 Spillwords Press Awards.
Congratulations to all on this well-deserved recognition, and we eagerly anticipate celebrating the winners throughout February.
Voting is officially scheduled from January 26th to January 31st on our voting page: https://spillwords.com/vote/.
We encourage you to share this link with your family, friends, and supporters, as their votes can make all the difference.
Please note, that registration and/or login are prerequisites for casting your votes.
The Author of the Year award winner will be prominently featured on the sidebar of Spillwords.com for the entire following month. Additionally, all winners will be showcased in a special publication on Spillwords.com.
Below, you’ll find the complete list of nominations:
SPILLWORDS PRESS AWARDS NOMINATIONS:
AUTHOR OF THE YEAR
Dawn Pisturino Ash Douglas Antonia Wang Lisa H. Owens Melissa Lemay Teodora Vamvu Ernie Stricsek Lou Storey Sanu Sharma Gabriella Balcom Joseph L.M. Sturm Michael McCarthy James Nelli
PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR (POETIC)
This World is Yours by Michael L. Utley Tapestry of Dreams by Ginny M. Jones Haunt by Emma Wells Empty Lines by Smitha V In Your Face by Ximena Escobar Black Flies by David Estringel Song of Soul by Suman Pokhrel Isn’t It a Pity? by Daedalus Chaos Worn Slap Out by Joni Caggiano Sentimental Ebb by Aurora Kastanias Birth Dance by SR Inciardi Treats Only, Please! by Lauren Scott Ethereal Encounter in the Night’s Embrace by Yasmin Hemmat A Squirrel’s Front Teeth Never Stop Growing by Barbara Harris Leonhard
PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR (NON-POETIC)
Miriam and Her 13,149 Days by Janete Cabral The Grand Adventure by Jim Bartlett The Seagull by Patricia Furstenberg Precious Moments by Valli Henry-Boldini A Christmas Heckler by John Christopher Moccona With Two Sugars by Sarah Kelleher Dunker Church by Robert Walton One Life to Live by Lise Rowlandson Kaivopuisto by S. Anand Adrift by Julie London Tasseography by Dominic Rivron Murmurs by June Hunter New Beginnings by Lisa Rivers Kiesling The Night My Daughter Never Came Home by Diana Burns PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR (INTERNATIONAL)
Willow! In an Ocean of Green! by Thaddeus Hutyra Namalowałeś… by Danuta Czerwińska Murawska No te Olvides de Mi by Francisco Bravo Cabrera The Apple Tree of Paradise by Marian Dziwisz El Primero by José A Gómez Rzeka by Mirosława Stojak Summer Haiku by Maurizio Brancaleoni Ay! Pobre Corazon by Nancy E. Campos Boquiblando by Alexis Soto Ramírez Gli Alberi di Gaza by Francesco Abate Soli by Natalia Castelluccio Coś do Powiedzenia by Katarzyna Koziorowska Significar Ninguna Vez by Romulaizer Pardo Złoty Ryngraf Nieba by Katarzyna Dominik
Best of luck to all nominees! We express our heartfelt gratitude for your exceptional collaboration and participation.
I’m not only thrilled that my poem from Halloween last year, “Treats Only, Please!” is nominated for Publication of the Year for 2025 (after winning Publication of the Month for October 2024), but I’m honored to stand beside so many talented authors. There are several categories to vote in, so I hope you take the time to sign in and vote! Voting begins today, January 26th, and will end on January 31st.A Huge Thanks to Dagmara and her amazing team at Spillwords for continuing to share my work. It’s a privilege to be a part of her wonderful literary community. ❤️🙏
Now as promised from my previous post, I’m sharing my first group of book reviews that I gave 5 stars. Please note that the length of my reviews is irrelevant. All of these books are different but highly recommended, so my thoughts vary on each…
The one thing Pete Springer knew post high school graduation was that he wasn’t going to college. He worked several odd jobs, but then through his dad’s friend, Springer found himself working in a position that developed into a rewarding experience. He was doing something that mattered, which motivated him to consider college again, only this time with a goal in mind.
After reading the first few pages, it didn’t take me long to learn that Springer was a caring and dedicated elementary school teacher. The kind that all parents wish for their children. They Call Me Mom reads like a memoir of how becoming an educator impacted his life in a positive way, as well as the positive difference he made in his students’ lives. Readers are guided on a journey spanning over three decades of his career. Springer offers sage advice to new teachers beginning from setting up the classroom to the importance of getting to know the students. “The obvious question is, how does one go about connecting with students? Well, it starts on the first day of school.” Working with parents and creating teamwork among staff and administrators is also paramount in obtaining trust.
Springer’s memories made me laugh, and some tugged at my heart. His personal goal was to be the best he could be for each classroom ranging from second grade to sixth grade. Some of Springer’s former students stay in contact with him too, which is telling in itself. And it wasn’t all about the curriculum – so much more goes into teaching than simply following a textbook. Through his anecdotes, he talks about the joys, challenges, and rewards of a profession that should be valued to the highest degree. Springer’s compassionate character evokes memories of my high school choir teacher, Mr. Perry, who encouraged me to step out of my singing comfort zone. Because of his support, I was able to realize my dream at the time.
I highly recommend They Call Me Mom as a tool for new teachers, and for current teachers to be reminded of the valuable reason they chose their career in the first place. Parents will also gain more insight, finding this book extremely useful. For those of us who don’t work in education, Springer’s book speaks to creating healthy relationships which is inspiring and can be applied to everyday life. I have a much deeper appreciation for teachers after reading this account of a fulfilling teaching career.
Vicki Atkinson’s book is an honest and emotional memoir about living with her mom, Sue, who was plagued with mental health and addiction issues. Sue’s moods would shift from joyful to rage in no time, causing confusion and pain to anyone nearby. Vicki disclosed only the truth, no sugarcoating any situation, and even inserted humor at times. In the midst of chaos and after she moved out from her mother’s house, she remained concerned about her disabled sister, Lisa, who landed on the receiving end of their mother’s manipulation and abuse.
How Vicki met each challenging moment with resilience, compassion, and strength was absolutely amazing to discover. She uncovered the means for coping while also providing us a glimpse of the good side of Sue…her fun, entertaining qualities, and empathetic heart that advocated for others. I found this perspective to be heartwarming and inspirational. Vicki became a licensed counselor, so I’m sure living with her mom’s unstable personality offered insight for her future to counsel others. This book truly demonstrates what it means to love and forgive, and to stay strong in turbulent times. Highly recommended!
When Balroop Singh’s husband unexpectedly passed away, she turned to writing poetry to provide a place for her grief to exist. Just One Goodbye is Singh’s invitation to join her on a journey that will make your heart ache. I can’t pretend to know how she feels because I haven’t experienced the loss of my husband. However, I can understand a love so strong, and a husband who became my best friend that even imagining a world without him is unimaginable.
Singh begins the collection with “A Journey through Grief” in which she speaks of how the tears flowed when she wrote these poems, and how they flowed again when she re-read them to edit. After reading the first poem “Just One Goodbye” I knew her collection was going to be heart-tugging and emotional…
…I look at the door wishing it could open one more time I yearn for one more smile One more hug I promise I’ll let you go Just let me say goodbye
The love and bond shared between Singh and her husband was profound, so Singh’s grief is intense. When a loved one passes suddenly, especially a spouse, how does one make sense of such a heartbreaking moment? Sorrow takes the spotlight in the beginning, but as I turned the pages, I began to see a slight ray of hope. Singh begins to write about a future without her husband, expressing that such a feat is possible, though the grieving will never end. The shift in Singh’s writing from sorrow to hope is encouraging for all of us who will have to say ‘good-bye’ to a loved one at some time in our lives.
I have always admired Singh’s beautiful poetry, and this collection was a continuation of her brilliant writing talent. I’m only saddened that the subject matter was painful for her, but I hope that as time passes, grief will loosen its grip, and writing will continue to provide comfort. I highly recommend this powerful poetry collection.
Celebrating Poetry by Cindy Georgakas is a companion guide to her successful debut book, Re-Create and Celebrate, but this collection of conversational poems can easily be read alone. While immersing myself into her beautiful writing, I felt as though she and I were chatting over a cup of coffee in my home about the ups and downs life has delivered. In a world where tragedy appears to be never-ending, the inspiration and motivation found in each poem is warmly welcomed. On the other hand, Georgakas dips into vulnerability and authenticity that we all can relate to; no words are minced, a fine detail of her writing that I love. I suggest you keep this book nearby for easy access on your coffee table or nightstand. Many poems also speak to the healing magic of nature which resonates with me because of my love for hiking, camping, and backpacking.
Even though we’ve heard it before, Georgakas reiterates: “Be who you are. Everyone else is taken.” And in “Be the Tree: We are pods in the tree of life: our stories will not go untold. From ashes we are to ashes we must go, as we take root, trusting with all our might.”
Celebrating Poetry inspires and touches souls, whether they feel whole or broken. Many poems resonate, remind, and enlighten, but I’m spotlighting one that really stands out:
The Insidious Mind
The mind is so insidious. We thrash our inner world to pieces, judging, critiquing, berating ourselves to a bloody pulp.
It’s no wonder the world is full of hatred and ugliness when we can’t even treat ourselves kindly.
Self-doubt reflected becomes too painful to feel, so, we wear a mask of false bravado, hoping no one will see our fractured parts.
This inner war invading our world is the culprit of hiding our greatness, turning us inside out, free for the taking.
Bring it to light, remember this is the job of the mind and not who you are. Release these demons so you can be free.
Don’t let these words live rent free in your head, you deserve better than these lies and deception they’ll have you believe. Be your own best friend, evict them with no further notice, so you can get the show on the road and take your power back.
As a matter of fact, this poem should be read and processed by everyone. Then maybe the never-ending tragedy would finally reach its expiration date. An empowering and lovely poetry collection highly recommended.
Sesi Says Goodbye to Granny is a beautiful mother-son collaboration by Robbie and Michael Cheadle. Together they have written a delightful story about Sesi, an elephant calf, who is worried about the matriarch leaving the herd. Young Sesi questions that if her treasured Granny leaves, who will guide and take care of her family? In this charming tale, we learn about African Bush Elephants and are pleasantly entertained with exquisite images and artwork by Robbie Cheadle. I bought the paperback and was captivated by the vivid colors and stunning visuals with each turn of a page. My fascination with elephants began years ago, so it was interesting to learn more about the magnificent animals. Sesi’s adventure is a real treat for children; I can only imagine the curiosity and excitement a child would feel, but honestly, her story is for all ages because of the educational element. If you wonder about Granny and the future of the herd like Sesi does, then you’ll need to purchase your copy, and I highly recommend that you do!
I know I’ve packed a lot into this one post, but with my family and work, time won’t allow me to post or blog every day. So, your takeaways today are to VOTE at Spillwords Press by simply clicking on the link above and signing in. If I am honored to receive your vote then I thank you in advance. Most of all, I encourage you to support the wonderful authors whose writing enriches all of our lives.
And now you have more books to read! You can click on the titles that will gently carry you over to Amazon to purchase your copy. I wouldn’t be a normal author if I didn’t include a plug for my book too, so here it is. 🙂 Click on the image below to purchase your copy of Cora’s Quest (a children’s book that will be enjoyed by kids from 2-92!) And remember that reviews are like hugs, so if you enjoy any books here or in general, please consider sharing a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. No rules apply: short or long, it doesn’t matter. Your time and support are appreciated by all Indie Authors. ❤️
Lastly, I am so grateful that you chose to visit me in your busy blogging schedule. I know it’s hard to keep up, so thank you! And I wish you a great day and week ahead!
How are you??? I can’t believe a month has passed by since I began my blog break! The holidays were magical, and I read a lot! I had so many books lined up from my friends here in blogland, so I took the opportunity to dive in! One by one, I was enchanted by evocative poetry, hooked by compelling fiction and fantasy, and moved by an inspirational memoir. In my next post, I will share those wonderful books. I also wrote reviews and posted them on Amazon and Goodreads, which felt good to help my fellow authors.Anyway, the photo above was from watching (from the comfort of our sofa) the Rose Parade in Pasadena on New Year’s Day. And the poem that I’m sharing below was written in December prior to the fire devastation in Los Angeles that began early January.
December Musings
I didn’t need mistletoe on New Year’s Eve to touch my lips to his nor an array of gifts resting beneath the Christmas tree I have a roof that shelters from winter’s rage and cools from summer’s hot embrace
The stars dance each evening in the vast sky above They shimmer and shine for all eyes to see – fathers and mothers sons and daughters aunts and uncles sisters and brothers – for you and for me.
A new year has arrived, the calendar tells us so I wish the holiday spirit would continue through the seasons Let it flow! Let it flow!
How lovely for children’s laughter to be music filling our days and love for All people to be the purpose of our ways…
My words still ring true, but our hearts ache for those lives that have literally been turned upside down because of the fires. The devastation looks unreal, but to everyone affected, it’s a living hell. For lives lost, for homes burned to the ground. The victims remain in our hearts. We have donated, and I hope everyone helps in any way possible. ❤️
While watching the news and staying informed with heavy hearts, we also celebrated this week…Cheers to 36 years of ‘happily ever after’ for my husband and I – 37 years together! And to think a refrigerator linked our paths! 😊 Life has presented us with an abundance to celebrate, but also hurdles to jump when things happened out of our control. Matt and I would jump those hurdles all over again hand in hand. Happy 36th to us, and to many more anniversaries to come! ❤️🎉🥂
A random thought…I pass by a mural often, reminding myself that someday I should stop and get a picture. Well, that ‘someday’ came. I took this in such a hurry though that I forgot to get the artist’s name. But I love the joy of nature this artwork displays. Does this mural make you wish for spring? 🌻
And lastly, if you recall from last month, I was dealing with a big hiccup regarding my paperback of Cora’s Quest. It was ‘out of stock’ and ‘on hold’ with the company I published it through, and because this occurred during the holidays, it was beyond frustrating. Well, it’s fixed! The image pages needed to be upgraded to a premium color level at no additional cost to me, so it’s all good, even though the wait was infuriating. Cora’s Quest is back in business, available in paperback (recommended for the full magical experience) and in e-book version.
For those of you who ordered the paperback and had to wait, have you received your copies? Thank you for your patience! And to those of you who have read, loved Cora’s adventure, and shared your 5-star reviews, Thank You, Thank You!!! Please consider sharing a review if you loved the book. Reviews are like hugs to Indie Authors! If you haven’t read about Cora yet, her story isn’t just for little ones; all ages will appreciate the important message found in the midst of Cora’s lively forest.
Click on the link to purchase your copy. xo
“A wonderfully uplifting story of lessons learned and the power of love. I recommend it for children and adults of all ages!” Award-winning Jan Sikes
Thank you for taking the time to pop in, and I look forward to reading your posts again!
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author 