I had a blast at the San Francisco Writers Conference! For my first time attending and on a scale from 1-10, my experience was a 15! I came home with an abundance of information to digest, organize, and implement, and I made some great friends! The conference was held at The Hyatt Regency, which is a beautiful hotel with incredible architecture, right across from the Ferry Building.
What’s funny is I thought I’d have time to read in my room and write in my journal. But the book and journal remained in my suitcase fully ignored, yet unintentionally. Along with attending self-publishing, poetry, and business tracks, I was in the company of amazing women authors either lunching, wine-ing, or enjoying good conversation and laughter over a delicious dinner. I made 3 consultation appointments for pitching another children’s book to meet with an agent, editor, and publisher, and received valuable feedback. Once I do final editing, I was asked to send my manuscript in, which was a boost of encouragement!
By the time I returned to my room each evening, I was exhausted, falling into my comfy king bed and sliding immediately into a much-needed slumber.
I was also thrilled to have my books, Ever So Gently and Cora’s Quest, on display in the onsite bookstore, and to sell a copy of each! By the way, how could I pass up more books to buy? I came home with six! Obviously, I’ll have to interrupt life to read, read, read! 😁
Below are more photos that I hope you enjoy…
If the planets align, I plan to attend next year! Such a rich experience!
I hope you are well, and I look forward to reading your posts again! ❤️
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!
I see the tears rolling, slowly, but with purpose. Will you let me dry them? Your invisible scars are as visible as words of anguish in your eyes. But there is no room for shame even though time swiftly moves while memories remain.
No, you don’t know me well, and I can’t relate to the nightmare that stole your self-worth, and we haven’t exchanged a friendly conversation over tea, but you can trust me. I only wish you kindness in your unfair moments of nothingness.
Please don’t let your soul accept blame – fingers point in one direction, and the compass lies in the palm of your hand, leaving blisters of terror as evidence. I’ll help you pick up the pieces from your shattered heart. I’m not afraid of a cut. If you’ll let me be your glue, I’ll fit them gently back together.
You wear the mask beautifully because you are beautiful, but isn’t it time to let it fall to the earth like a raindrop? To heal cracks on the inside and approach life on the outside?
Allow your soul to sing with melodies of celebration. Allow your soul to dance in elation, for you have walked through hell, felt the burn beneath your feet, but you have reached the other side and welcomed the reassurance of light.
You have one decision that is yours alone. No one will take it away… so how do you want the world to see you?
Have you ever wanted to swat away anticipation like a mosquito buzzing around your head in the dead of night?
Don’t you loathe how it makes you feel? Correction…how you allow yourself to react? Reactions in any circumstance inform consequences.
You and I have a choice, but sometimes, our own beloved minds and bodies conspire.
Courage is yanked out from under you like a rug. Nerves in your body join forces, jumping out of control.
And when your mouth dries up? Words become stuck as though they’ve plunged into quicksand, one by one – any resolve begins to sink. Your throat feels dry as dust. Just one sip of water please.
Maybe if you and I focus on staying calm, yes, staying calm, keeping our heads level…
*Side note: A young, handsome paramedic once told me years ago in the wee hours of the morning that staying calm is key in any situation. I’ll never forget his sage advice.
Thank you to Manuela Timofte for publishing this post about rainbows and miracles. Some of you may remember it from a few weeks ago. This week I’m praying for a miracle, so I’m grateful for the perfect timing! I’m closing comments because I invite you to visit Gobblers to offer Manuela support at her wonderful literary site. And after viewing the photos and reading my poem, “Darker than the Deepest Sea” I hope you’ll be inclined to leave a ‘like’ and maybe even a comment…🤗🌈
Last Wednesday morning brought us a stunning sunrise and double rainbow. I wasn’t able to get photos, but a friend of mine grabbed her cell phone and captured these! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Who says miracles don’t happen?
I’m sharing a poem from my recent poetry collection that ties in with the miracles of rainbows:
Darker than the Deepest Sea
Life is like a package wrapped in festive paper. The matching ribbons fascinate in their delicate, entwined company, fingers gently unravel, heartbeats increase from excitement. We lift the lid, peek inside, letting our inner child frolic to the forefront of our minds.
But unlike recyclable paper, the gift of life cannot be tossed back into the universe. There is no spare awaiting on the sidelines, and we should be mindful that the contents require tenderness with instructions solely for each one of us individually, because as visible as a ruby rose in a garden of white daisies… we are beautifully unique.
Once we follow these with gratitude and vivacity, the purpose of our gift will reveal itself as naturally as moonlight on a night darker than the deepest sea. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ When you leave my site today, please remember how precious life is, and how beautiful you are!
And as Maya Angelou said, “Try to be a rainbow in somebody else’s cloud”. ❤️❤️❤️ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Have you ever stopped to think about the impression of a breeze… how it brushes aside your face like the tender touch of a lover?
I have a hunch you know what I’m talking about…
when a heat wave invades your personal space – oppressive, and each breath is as difficult as lifting a hundred pound bag of bricks,
a breeze, simple as one is, whisks in as lovely as the sun ascending in tangerines and corals over the hills after a mass of worries pervaded your night’s sleep.
Relief so friendly and delightful as though being welcomed into a new neighborhood with a smile and a freshly baked plate of cookies.
So, next time a breeze leavesa soft touch upon your cheek, place your palm over the connection, inhaling gratitude
because sometimes, sometimes, the simplest of things makes the biggest impact.
We’ll be out of town next week visiting our daughter and son-in-law, so this will be my last post for a while. Stay well, stay cool, stay safe, and as always, thank you for visiting Baydreamer! ❤️
For those of you who have followed me since Part 1, thank you!I thought today’s Part 3 would make a good Friday post. On a morning hike, I became inspired to write, and once we returned to camp, I had to jot down my thoughts fast before they drifted away. So, if you missed Part 1, which will provide the full context of this series, you can check it out here, and for Part 2 click here. I hope you enjoy! ❤️
An Invitation
Smooth granite invites contemplation and reflection. Please, take a seat, relax, watch the lake’s ripples perform their water dance. Does the shimmering surface remind you of stars presenting a ballet in a brilliant night sky?
Note the tall pines swaying in the breeze, you can gently sway, too, if you feel the need. Let the depth of your soul bathe in the beauty. Permit calm into your core slowing the anxiety in your weary bones. No worries weigh heavy on your mind. Simply absorb nature’s tranquility, enhancing your mindset, and sensing your body slipping into a state of bliss.
The sun touches the stone like the caress of an adored lover. Feel the warmth seeping into your skin and open your eyes to the wonder around you, to the tail-free lizard heading somewhere fast alone.
When you feel like you can’t keep up with a world spinning out of control,
When joy has been suffocated by tragedies incomprehensible, and you fear it won’t breathe sweet air again,
When hope has been emptied to the last drop and you fear it won’t be replenished,
Consider yourself truly blessed with this precious moment, transporting you to a safe place of escape.
Perfect for summer blue skies or for when the leaves change their wardrobe in the fall. In this collection, I prompt you to reminisce and reflect on your past, present, and future. Through the ups and downs, what matters most is to love and live ever so gently. 💚🩵
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 