I’m combining several things in this post, so make yourself comfortable and pour a glass of your favorite cold or hot drink! To begin with, I had the opportunity to read my book, Cora’s Quest, at our local library. This was a ‘first’ for me, other than the reading at the book fair in May. Seven children and their moms arrived with attentive hearts and minds, and it was wonderful, to say the least. I don’t have many photos because the kids’ faces can’t be seen, but these give you an idea.
I spoke a little before I began reading, and then I had several questions for the children afterwards. They answered and were adorable, not to mention, smart! A few moms chimed in too! And a couple of the moms mentioned to me that they really loved the message in the story: To remember that we always have courage inside of us and to stay calm when we’re feeling afraid.
I had several giveaways: stickers, bookmarks, puppets, and coloring pages, and many of the kids had fun coloring at the table. And I sold some books, which wasn’t the main goal. First of all, I hoped for a decent number of kids to show up, which happened. Then of course, I hoped that the children and parents loved the book, which they did by clapping at the end of the reading. I have to add that all the kids left with a sticker on their shirt or dress, and some of the moms did the same. I had a happy heart, and they all loved Cora! So, that evening, Matt and I toasted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to my success! 🥂
Now as for respite, this will be my last post until the first week of December. It’s time to prepare for the big day, Thanksgiving, and excited to see our kids while also reflecting upon past memories of our parents whom have all passed away. Not to mention, our lovable dogs, and Copper, who we still miss so much. They’re having lots of fun together over the Rainbow Bridge. 🌈
Speaking of Copper, yesterday afternoon I was really missing him and my emotions got the best of me. I was sitting at my desk and happen to look out the window, and what did I see? Our neighbor’s gray cat relaxing on our patio chair. She was all curled up and quite cozy and comfortable. I felt like something bigger was at play because of my longing to hug Copper one more time, and knowing that this holiday season will be our first without him. Sigh.
the timing was purrrfect Copper loved this time of year, and he definitely was a regal boy. 🧡
Lastly, I leave you with old poetic thoughts for Thanksgiving. So, to those who celebrate this holiday, I wish you a blessed day, and to those who don’t, I wish you a blessed day!
Below is a poem I give to you all! ❤️
Thanksgiving Thoughts
Born from history a day we celebrate blessings in our lives, for each breath we take but some live in darkness with light, imaginary living to survive is anything but sanctuary I hold them in my heart, though trite to some ears In moments of surrender, I give freedom to tears
So, I ask not for anything but one gift I will bring to the feast laid before me where all should dance with glee a piece of me that I impart is my very grateful heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I’ll see you in December to resume my blogging routine, so be well, be safe, be happy. Sending love! ❤️
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
I’m thrilled to share about Denises’s new Christmas short story collection! I read the first and loved it! So, I turn the floor over to you, Denise!
Thank you for having me on your incredible blog today, Lauren, to share the release of Ghosts & Miracles Past: A Christmas Collection Two. I’m extremely grateful for your support!
In “Christmas After Loss,” Shelia is a widow in her early thirties. It has been a year since Randy tragically died. He had a bad heart, the doctor told her, and at the time she didn’t question it. Later, though, in the quiet hours of the night, doubts surfaced. Still, Shelia did the best of running their diner and hoping to build their dream house. Christmas was two days away, and she just wanted to get through it, but her car wouldn’t start. She called the only person she could think of, her husband’s friend, Sam. Rescued, she trudged through her day. Alone in the diner between the lunch and dinner crowd, she gets a customer. What he tells her is alarming. This is when she finds out who she can trust.
BLURB:
Miracles saturate the sweet-scented Christmas season—a reminder we aren’t alone.
Miracles & Ghosts Past: A Christmas Collection brings eight stories from past holidays. Rita buys train tickets for her and Morris’s 30th anniversary in the novelette, “The Christmas Train Mystery.”She’s convinced this trip will bring her and Morris closer—if he can find the time. A murder mystery excursion will change Rita’s life in more ways than one, but will she go with her workaholic husband or by herself? In the first short story, “Christmas Rescue,” Opal trusts the wrong man and loses her mother in the same year, leaving her feeling lost. On a mission to get candles for the dinner table, she makes an unexpected find. “Is There a Santa?” goes back to the 1920s, where a widower is desperate to hold on to his farm and children. He doesn’t want charity, just a bit of luck or a miracle. In the final stories, you’ll meet an eleven-year-old who’s home alone, a family living in the aftermath of war, a girl who gets some shocking news, a widow with a warning from beyond, and a woman trapped on an elevator with Santa. Hope underlies these stories; it endures even in the direst of circumstances. Whether help comes from a ghost, Santa, or an angel, miracles are just within reach.
EXCERPT FROM: Christmas After Loss, 1980
When Sheila was young, she believed in miracles. Life stripped away that youthful fancy the moment her thirty-two-year-old husband died unexpectedly on Christmas Eve. She barely recognized the person she’d become. The glass had always been half full for her, and Sheila had been the optimist among her friends. It was what Randy loved best about her, and now, along with him, that optimism was gone.
Still, she managed to push the darkness back enough to get up every morning and face each day. Sheila had a business to run that allowed her to just cover the bills and hold onto the property and the trailer she and Randy had purchased, intending to build a house later. That and many other dreams were gone, but at least she still had Cuddles by her side.
“I know, I know. You’re hungry,” she said to the petite gray cat.
Cuddles looked at her empty bowl, and then those mesmerizing gray eyes took in Sheila.
“Daddy sure spoiled you,” Sheila said.
A grin almost crossed her face before the pain of the loss seeped back in and weighed down her expression.
The cat wound around her legs as if to agree as her bowl was filled.
Cuddles had won her husband’s heart when he found her on the side of a road as a kitten three years ago, and taking care of her brought Sheila some peace. She was still relatively new to the town, so there wasn’t anyone to lean on other than the helpful Sam, who’d bonded with Randy the first time they met. Although at times it seemed like Sam was a little too bonded, and she’d pointed that out to Randy.
Randy had grinned. “I knew guys like him in high school. Just a bit on the needy side is all. I know how to handle that, don’t worry.”
Still, Sam remained in the pest category until Randy’s passing. After losing her husband, she appreciated Sam’s support. As a thirty-two-year-old widow who owned and ran a café, she didn’t have much in common with the local women her age. Having Randy had always been enough, along with their dream property that included a well, pond, electrical hookup, septic, and a little stream surrounded by pines. The previous owner had planned to build before his health deteriorated.
“Sometimes I think this place is cursed, Cuddles. Maybe we should go back home, like my sister keeps saying. Be near friends and family. They’d spoil you too.” Sheila petted the purring cat, who was now gobbling the wet food.
The hair rose on her arms as she sensed she was being watched. Was Randy there with her? It wasn’t like she’d have to worry about a Peeping Tom in the country, right?
The phone, which Randy had finished installing right before she lost him, rang. Cuddles’s usual reaction was to puff up her fur and growl, and she did exactly that and stopped eating until Sheila answered it. She tried to keep her voice cheerful, but she knew what a call before the sun had risen meant.
I love gift giving, but I’m not a skilled gift wrapper. I’m thankful for gift bags.
D. L. Finn is an independent California local who encourages everyone to embrace their inner child. She was born and raised in the foggy Bay Area, but in 1990 she relocated with her husband, kids, dogs, and cats to Nevada City, in the Sierra foothills. She immersed herself in reading all types of books but especially loved romance, horror, and fantasy. She always treasured creating her own reality on paper. Finally, surrounded by towering pines, oaks, and cedars, her creativity was nurtured until it bloomed. Her creations include children’s books, adult fiction, and poetry. She continues on her adventure with an open invitation to all readers to join her.
To celebrate the release, I will be giving away three Amazon Gift Cards: $5, $10, and $15. At the end of the tour, I will randomly pick the three winners from those who leave comments during the blog tour. Good Luck!
My 5-star review:
D.L. Finn’s wonderful storytelling isn’t new to me. Miracles & Ghosts Past is the second collection of Christmas stories with an ethereal flair. Eight stories of real-life dire circumstances grabbed my attention, and I had hoped for eight happy endings. Speaking of hope, this desire for a positive outcome, coupled with a strong belief in miracles is beautifully woven through each tale. But I also wondered if help would arrive. And in what form? After all, we’ve heard of angels, and the jolly old man with a white beard wearing a red suit, not to mention, friendly ghosts. By gifting us with this beautiful collection, D.L. Finn invites the reader “…to find your miracle not only during the holiday season but year-round.”
I immediately became immersed in each story – the characters, their perseverance, and the authentic settings. My heart ached through the challenging times and beat faster through the trepidation of not knowing what I would read at the end. Each story stirred emotions, but two favorites were “The Christmas Train Mystery” and “She’s Home Alone.”
Finn inserted the perfect quantity of suspense to keep me on the edge of my seat. In the first story about the Christmas train, Rita buys train tickets to surprise her husband for their 30th wedding anniversary. Only she is the one who will be surprised by the events to come. “She’s Home Alone” evoked memories of a movie I saw years ago, so the story’s suspense affected me in the same way. Brilliant writing! An eleven-year-old girl is home alone with her imagination that goes wild. Her fright will reach the hearts of all parents.
Do you acknowledge the presence of ghosts, angels, and Santa? If your answer is ‘no’ then you will discover newfound beliefs after turning the last page. Highly recommended for you who would welcome a little Christmas magic! 💫🎄
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Thank you for stopping by to support Denise! I hope you’re enticed enough to add her book to your home library! ❤️
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
I hope you enjoy my series of tanka poems for this holiday season, and I might have veered away from the rules a few times. So, good thing I’m not being graded. 😁 Enjoy ,and I wish you all a peaceful and happy holiday season!
1.
This jingle jolly season delights young hearts as they bake cookies for the white-bearded man in red joy through the eyes of children
2.
Christmas carols play on the old record player while snowflakes fall in slow motion and candles sway to the festive melodies
3.
Hustle and bustle begins after Thanksgiving for shopping galore but commercialism slays the magic, so stay focused
4.
I grew up learning about a baby boy born on this Christmas day who would become a teacher of unconditional love
5.
‘Tis the season to be with family and friends bringing joy to hearts for their company is the best gift of all to receive
6.
Lights twinkle on homes when evening accommodates all aglow in their shimmering reds, greens, and golds uplifting somber spirits
7.
flour on faces enjoyment in the blending snowmen, bells, Christmas trees frosted and sprinkled with love sweetens gift of giving
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Do you have a favoritetanka? Do any resonate with you?
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, Ever So Gently). 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.These are thoughts from last year’s post.
And so, to those who celebrate Thanksgiving, I wish you a blessed day, and to those who don’t, I wish you a blessed day! Below is a poem I give to you all! ❤️
Thanksgiving Thoughts
Born from history a day we celebrate blessings in our lives, for each breath we take but some live in darkness with light, imaginary living to survive is anything but sanctuary I hold them in my heart, though trite to some ears In moments of surrender, I give freedom to the tears
So, I ask not for anything but one gift I will bring to the feast laid before me where all should dance with glee a piece of me that I impart is my very grateful heart.
p.s. Cora’s Quest, a children’s book, is coming in December – I’m working on final approvals. p.s.s. I’m working on several book reviews, but because of tech issues, I lost the word doc. Sigh. Maybe a miracle will bring it back. Otherwise, I have to start over. These will come in December also, but I had hoped by end of this month. Sometimes, all we can do is go with the flow! 🥰
I appreciate you all, Hugs, Lauren 🩷🍁❤️
Photo courtesy of my daughter, Cheekwood Estate, Tennessee
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 ❤️
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.
As Thanksgiving Day inches closer, what are you grateful for? And don’t you agree that we should show gratitude all year round? And then reality stares us in the face each day on every news channel. My heart aches more and more. War. Homelessness. Hate. Mass shootings. It’s really very hard to keep the spirits from plummeting. So, where is the love, respect, and acceptance? Lives have been upended in the most horrific ways, and I’ve only scratched the surface. Still, if we dig deep, deep enough, we can find something to be grateful for…
It’s hard to believe that my father-in-law passed away three weeks ago. Time is mystifying, isn’t it? We miss him, but in various ways every day, we celebrate his 100 years and we will honor him next month for his Celebration of Life. We know he’s watching over us, feeling our love for him and knowing he’ll be in our hearts forever. ❤️
Now I’ve always looked forward to this time of year when the sun isn’t so aggressive and the temps are cooler. I still enjoy the quiet early mornings when Copper and I go for our walks, although at 13, he’s definitely slower. He’s ‘told’ me that around the block is about all he can do, and that’s completely fine. He gets to sniff and lift his leg, and that makes him a happy lab! We also get to watch the sunrise and listen to the silence. How glorious is that! And when a day or night’s sleep passes without pain, I am grateful. I’m jealous of Copper because he sleeps better than me! I know I sound like I’m 90, but I assure you I’m not. Even still, my body backtalks now and then, but it’s better than the alternative!
I yearn for the long, light evenings that summer brings, but hubby and I break out the candles for nightfall that arrives early. We allow the coziness to embrace us in its warmth. It goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyway…having a roof over our head is not to be taken lightly.
During this season, I am intoxicated by the aromas of pumpkin bread, pumpkin pies, pumpkin cookies, and I indulge in an occasional pumpkin latte. Hello, Pumpkin! And who doesn’t love the wardrobe changing of the leaves on the trees? Those rich, warm reds, golds, and yellows. And then let’s talk books! I’m thankful for my bookcase that is bursting at the seams! So many books! I don’t know what I’d do if paperbacks and hardcovers became obsolete. I love to hold a book in my hands, to feel the pages as I turn them and the smooth, beautiful, enticing covers.
This year, our son who lived in Virginia, embarked on a cross country road trip working remotely while visiting as many national parks as possible. His adventure began on May 1st in Maine as he worked his way west to California staying in Airbnb’s, and he is now home with us for the holidays. We are grateful that he stayed safe during his travels of almost 18,000 miles and that we get to spend the holidays with him. To be with our son and daughter over the holidays is a gift in itself. Can’t wait to see our daughter and son-in-law! ❤️
My Gratitude list goes on and on – there is no conclusion. Isn’t that something to be thankful for?! Lastly, thank you for your continued support and friendship in this world of blogging. And a Big Thank You to those of you who have bought my book, Ever So Gently, and to those who have written fabulous reviews.
Thanksgiving Thoughts
Born from history is this day we celebrate the blessings in our lives, for each breath we take. I ask not for anything but one gift I will bring to the feast laid before me among the golden leaves, and so I gladly share at this table I take part, my very grateful heart.
My family wishes you a very warm and loving Thanksgiving! ~Lauren 🧡🍁🍂
Christmas time is not only a season of Love, Giving, and Hope, it is a season of remembering…our minds return to the days when loved ones who have passed celebrated with us. And when I came across this old photo of our children from 1997, I couldn’t help the feeling of warm and fuzzy in my heart.
A season of noble fir fragrance, festive decorationsthat bring joy…
and cozy evenings with a flickering fire or dancing candlelight.
A season of traditional baking while adding a new sinfully, delicious recipe…
Toffee Bars:
1 c. salted butter, 1/2 c. sugar, 2 c. flour, 1/2 c. chopped pecans or walnuts (optional), 1/2 c. toffee chips
Directions: soften butter and mix with sugar and flour. Add toffee chips and nuts. Pat into a 9×13 ungreased pan. Be sure edges are straight. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. While hot, use a pastry brush to spread the glaze on: 1 c. powdered sugar, 3 T. milk, 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
Let cool and cut into squares. Enjoy!
And the king of the house (Copper) will not be forgotten, sporting his new holiday hoodie to keep warm in his older years, while he wonders what Santa will bring him this year…
many merry shapes frosted and sprinkled with love from my heart to yours
❤️ ❤️ ❤️
This is my last post for the year, and I’ll be on Christmas break as of tomorrow. So I wish you all a holiday season filled with lots of love and sweetness! Thank you for your wonderful visits to read my thoughts in verse and prose. See you in the New Year! 🎄🎉🎉🎉🎄
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author 