I’m currently reading a beautiful book of syllabic poetry, Seasons and Crystals, by Balroop Singh. I’ve written syllabic poetry, but it’s not my go-to form like free verse. And yet, reading her poetry and the various forms inspired me. I thought about life in general, about the past events in our family, and about nature’s beauty right in front of us. So, the other evening, Hubby and I were enjoying our patio time and the weather was perfect, not too hot, not too cold or windy. A cactus sits on our table that our daughter bought years ago. My husband gave it a drink, and I loved the water droplets on the tepals. So, I wrote some poetry in the form of American cinquain which consists of 5 lines and a syllable count on each line of 2-4-6-8-2. This form is also known as the Crapsey cinquain and was invented by American poet, Adelaide Crapsey.
Evening on the Patio
Pleasure, simple and free, birds sing from tree tops in the distance under vast blue sky – senses
Splendor
Beauty comes in many forms, colors, and textures – painful to fingertips or soft to touch
Living
Lovely life around us can be prickly at times but keep eyes open for when hope glistens
Layers
Secrets lie in layers – will they be publicized? time is the ultimate answer – patience
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
I returned earlier than I mentioned, but I thought you’d enjoy some lake love. 💙
There’s nothing like escaping to the mountains for tranquility and perspective. Nature unconditionally offers her healing ways, so we embraced them. Last month, life threw us some challenges that we’re moving through with as much grace as possible, but it was good to getaway and spend some time in the Sierra Mountains. We biked around the renovated campground on newly paved roads (pedal bikes and so much fun!). We hiked on the backcountry trail – the same trail that took us to the enchanting Spider Lake for backpacking in 2019. Loon Lake shown in these photos is gorgeous, a mini Lake Tahoe without the tourists. And it’s been our ‘cabin’ for the last 15 years. Stepping into the cold water is a bit shocking, but once you’re immersed, it feels so good and refreshing that you never want to get out. It’s magical. We reveled in each sunset, and I can’t get enough pics! Our last night’s sunset was one of the most spectacular, oranges and pinks brushed across the sky. And of course, we simply relaxed in camp – reading, talking, listening. Our time here was awesome. It was peaceful. It was reflective. It was needed. So, I hope the slide show brings peace to you:
A getaway in the woods may help us forget, but reality tags along – so we lug around sadness while embracing serenity, and somehow, they harmonize.
I hope you’re doing well, and maybe one of our photos spoke to you, or maybe a few. Next week, I’ll share reviews for some wonderful books! Take good care and stay healthy! 💕
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
A picture book that offers a message for all ages.
I shared this poem before but made a few revisions and recorded again. There’s so much going on around us to stir up anxiety, but we’re also surrounded by beauty that makes us pause, feeling a sense of awe. So, try releasing the chaos that worries you and accept my invitation to get out in nature and enjoy the moment.
Angles of Wisdom
My eyes look up to the tallest trees on our precious planet and I am drawn into stillness like a hypnotist’s magic.
Fine slivers of blue calm thoughts becoming thieves, stealing pockets of peace.
Soft clusters of green gently dance in a breeze while nature’s wildlife build their playgrounds.
Sparrows and blackbirds croon for their mates. I ruminate on how these majestic giants take care of each other, unconditionally – we should emulate without deliberation.
My eyes look up and I am reminded of their age ancient as dinosaurs that roamed the land.
Angles of wisdom permeate my space – eyes slowly close. I breathe in and savor this moment that is mine to own.
Lauren Scott is a 2025 Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir in verse and prose, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing has been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations. At Spillwords Press, she received Publication of the Year (Poetic, 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023), and Publication of the Month (June 2025 and October 2024). A member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, Lauren received an Honorable Mention for her poem “Wings” in the 2026 Smalls Too Poetry Contest. Her work also appears in six anthologies. Lauren is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
Poetry that invites reflection on the past, present, and future – and reminds us to love and live ever so gently.
As Indie Authors, self-promotion is a must, but I loathe this part of publishing books. Yet, if not me, then who or whom? You know I don’t sell books for the money. If that were the case, I’d be in serious trouble. My expenses outweigh the profits with a substantial lead. Publishing my books began and will continue as a legacy for my family. And when I read reviews and learn how my writing resonated or touched the hearts of others, this is the true reward that surpasses monetary compensation. I haven’t done a promotional post in awhile, but for those of you who are new to my blog, this post might be of interest, or maybe some of you long-time friends aren’t familiar with my older books. I hope you enjoy these tidbits that I pulled from 5-star reviews:
~ Thoughts by Diana Peach, Author of Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver
This is the second book of Scott’s poetry that I’ve read. And I enjoyed it as much, if not more, than the first. Scott’s collection includes free form poetry, both with and without subtle rhyming. The poems feel personal, poignant, and from the heart, and many reflect the nature of love in its varied forms. Family relationships provide much of the fodder for reflection. There were so many poems I enjoyed that I stopped making notes. Some are touching and sentimental like “Morning After.” A poem called “Bananas” had me laughing with its silliness, and “Raindrops and Coffee” has wonderful imagery and a staccato rhythm (like raindrops). Other favorites were “In Loving Memory of Mom,” “Winter’s Lane,” and “Reflections.” Highly recommended for poetry readers who enjoy touching poems about life and family.
“Finding a Balance is a collection of beautiful poems that speak to the daily emotions of life and, in particular, the pain and sadness of her journey along the path of a life threatening illness in a family member. Both my sons have suffered, and continue to suffer, chronic illnesses so this is something that is close to my own heart and to which I intimately related. Seeing our loved ones in pain and ill and not being able to do anything about it is one of the heaviest burdens a mother can bear. These words say it all from “Reality’s Edge”:
“Shaking my head, I lie in beads of sweat’ gripping the edge, waiting to fall into the depths …”
…Not all the poems are about chronic illness. Many are about the poet’s love for her family and her husband of 26 years. There are some delightful romantic poems in this collection.”
“This is an extraordinary book and one that I could not put down. Scott captures the reader with her love for coffee, endearing tales, and the courage to live life to the fullest. Her exceptional writing resonates deeply with my own values, history, and love of storytelling. It is a charming book of prose and poems that will warm your heart and lift your soul. Scott highlights the beauty of marriage, friendship, and the love of family so beautifully, from the first story to the last poem, I felt as if I belonged in the pages of this delightful book. Scott explores all the facets of life, including love and sadness, gratitude and loss, humor and joy. She takes me on a familiar journey of a complicated life, including encounters with aggressive spiders, sacred heirlooms, grief, and long-distance relationships with grown children. I have Scott’s book by my bedside, within reach, so I can enjoy again and again her incredible knack for drawing one into a story, her arresting poetry, and the potency of a well-told story.”
~ Thoughts by Balroop Singh, Author of Beyond the Fetters
“Scott’s poetry celebrates memories and moments in her latest collection – ‘Ever So Gently.’ Her connection with the surroundings blends into the wisdom of nature that unfolds through stunning imagery like: “hear the rustle of a skittering squirrel,” “petals of velvet invite raindrops to bask in their peach enchantment,” and “breeze carries burdens down rivers.” From the birds that ‘flit and flutter’ to build their nest to the owl who proclaims his presence with his ‘high-pitched toots’ and the hummingbirds that flutter around the “bright pink petals” – all find a place of honor in this book to delight your moods. Lauren’s realism captivates and appeals to all the senses. From ‘The Peach Rose’ to ‘Firestorm’ and not to forget ‘I Was Adopted,’ her poetry slides most naturally on the wide canvas of creativity. Some more examples of Scott’s brilliant style:
“And water hasn’t caressed the hills The earth, parched like Chile’s Atacama.” “Silk-thread drizzles dusted rooftops and parched hills.”
~ Thoughts by Brian, Writing from the Heart with Brian
“The world can sometimes be a dark and scary place, but like the little fawn Cora in Cora’s Quest, we all need to remind ourselves that “my body may be small, but my courage is big.” Cora finds herself separated from her ma and pa on a dark trail. She fears the worst, but reminds herself to be strong and courageous. I’ve been repeating Cora’s message in my head frequently the past several weeks and it’s brought a smile to my face and hope to my heart. Lauren has created an enchanted story that’s perfect for the young and young at heart. I should add that the artwork by Chris Mendez is out of this world. The images and colors jump off the page. Cora’s Quest would be great to give as a gift or treat for yourself. I could see this book becoming a treasured part of the reading routine for little ones of every age. It’s a beautiful book and keepsake.”
“I was excited/nervous to read Lauren’s tribute to her beloved Copper. Excited because I know it was a labor of utmost love for Lauren. Nervous because I knew “King Copper” would prompt tears. Lauren writes with powerful poignancy. I embraced every word. Some tore at me, expressions familiar and raw about losing a predictable household rhythm…wrapped in fur. But so many words made me smile. Scratch that. Grin. I’m keeping my copy of “King Copper” at my desk, sitting next to my favorite basket. Such a face…such a sweet soul. Maybe he’ll find his way to a bookshelf, but not yet. This review is more than praise. It’s my heartfelt endorsement…perhaps a plea. “King Copper” is a worthy addition to your family library. A book you’ll want to recommend – just as I have – to dear ones experiencing loss. There’s comfort on every page, thanks to Lauren and her family. Thanks to Copper himself:
“I never went away; I’m sitting by your side. My love for you runs far and wide; I’ll never go astray.”
I’m grateful for those who have welcomed my books into their hearts and homes, and who have shared thoughts on Amazon and/or Goodreads. Reviews are like hugs for Indie Authors and who doesn’t love a hug?
Thank you for taking the time in your busy schedule to pop in to my corner of blogland and read about my books. Did you find common themes? Themes that would interest you?
If you’d like to purchase a copy, just click on the book titles that will gently carry you over to Amazon. Below are additional links, as well:
Lauren Scott is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry, a memoir in verse and prose, and her first children’s book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023) and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Her work was named Honorable Mention in The Smalls Too 2026 Poetry Contest from the California Writer’s Club. Lauren’s work is published in several anthologies. She is currently working on her second children’s book and a collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
With a mind of their own feet move forward, a breeze swirls about giving my jacket wings, redwoods listen as I whisper questions, answers appear from around their trunks.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Have a lovely Earth Day, get outdoors if you can, do your small part to take care of our beautiful planet, and thanks for stopping by!💚
Lauren Scott is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry, a memoir in verse and prose, and her first children’s book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press, Gobblers and Masticadores, and LatinosUsa. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023) and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Her work was named Honorable Mention in The Smalls Too 2026 Poetry Contest from the California Writer’s Club. Lauren’s work is published in several anthologies. She is currently working on her second children’s book and a collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
In March I submitted 3 poems to The Smalls Too Poetry Contest through the California Writers Club. I found out about this contest through Shawn, whose podcast I was a guest on last year talking about my book, King Copper. Shawn is a member of the California Writers Club, Redwood Writers Chapter.
There were close to 200 poets submitting their work and 450 poems in total that were sent in. The two award-winning authors who were the judges had to read those 450 poems to choose a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winner, along with 10 Honorable Mentions. Thus, they had to select 13 poems out of 450!
I didn’t hold my breath, but I was surprised and excited to receive the email from one of the judges, informing me that my poem “Wings” was selected as an Honorable Mention, and it will be included in their anthology to be released later this year.
So, you can see by the numbers why I am THRILLED!!
A little more context regarding the rules…each poem had to be eight lines only (poetry with meaning and brevity), and could be written about any topic. I’m sharing “Wings” below:
I was also invited by Shawn to attend the Redwood Writers Chapter meeting yesterday, which I did and really enjoyed. Everyone was so nice and I am looking into joining as well. The timing feels right. Thank you to Shawn, Crissi, Les, Robin, and Roger for the warm welcome!
I hope my poem touched your heart or evoked special memories. Thanks so much for your visit, and for allowing me to celebrate this special recognition. Have a great week ahead, and I will visit you soon! ❤️
Lauren Scott is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry, a memoir in verse and prose, and her first children’s book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press, Gobblers and Masticadores, and LatinosUsa. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023) and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Her work was named Honorable Mention in The Smalls Too 2026 Poetry Contest from the California Writer’s Club. Lauren’s work is published in several anthologies. She is currently working on her second children’s book and a collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
I recently turned Medicare age, and I’m not shy about the numbers. In fact, I’m happy to be alive! As chaos runs rampant around the world, I need to focus on the good. So, I’m lucky to have a wonderful man in my life – my best friend, my rock and voice of reason after thirty-seven years of marriage. I miss my amazing son and daughter more as I get older, but I’m beyond proud of them for spreading their wings and pursuing their dreams. However, my wish is that someday, geography won’t interfere with Sunday dinners, meeting for coffee or lunch, or simply popping in – them popping in on us, of course – we’d never pop in on our children. Smile. I miss my sisters and their families, but all this ‘missing’ is satisfied with visits and technology. I miss loved ones who have passed, and Copper and canine family members who came before him. The health hiccups I had in the past are manageable in the present – a blessing! I’m grateful for mobility. It sounds mundane, doesn’t it? But if it’s taken away, it’s life altering. I revel in each new sunrise and sunset, rebirth in spring, cleansing in winter, coziness in autumn. I marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge with each crossing and adore every visit with the redwoods. ‘Tomorrow’ isn’t a given. When I turn on the news, I’m reminded that each day is a gift that deserves to be lived. So, Live It!!! And I hope all the March babies out there had a wonderful celebration like I did! The candles were lit, the fire extinguisher sat nearby on high alert! 🙂 And I enjoyed that slice of carrot cake!
I’m not sharing these thoughts for selfish reasons but to inspire you to live your life to the fullest! Those numbers are simply numbers. 🎂
I leave you with a recent (draft of a) poem that came to mind when hubby and I sat on our patio enjoying a warm, spring evening.
The Dove
We watch her hop to the top oak branch – it bends but doesn’t break beneath her weight. Our naked eyes, grateful for a better angle to see her silvery body and witness her tiny beak move from left to right as she sings, Coo, Coo, from her bird’s eye view – does she notice us – our admiration of her plain as can be? Our existence, minimal in this magical moment – how amazing she must feel to sit on top of the world.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Enjoy the magic of nature! I know I’m not around as much, but I miss you all! When life presents other plans, we must dive in with courage and wonder. ❤️
Author and poet, Lauren Scott, is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry: New Day, New Dreams (2013), Finding a Balance (2015), Ever So Gently (2023), and King Copper (2025). In 2021, she released her memoir, More than Coffee. Her first children’s book, Cora’s Quest, was published in 2024. Lauren has been a guest on several podcasts, and 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 recent recipient of the Publication of the Year (Poetic) Award. Lauren is a contributing author in several anthologies, and her work is showcased on LatinosUSA and Gobblers and Masticadores. She is currently working on her second children’s book and another collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, reveling in simple things, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
Author and poet, Lauren Scott, is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry: New Day, New Dreams (2013), Finding a Balance (2015), Ever So Gently (2023), and King Copper (2025). In 2021, she released her memoir, More than Coffee. Her first children’s book, Cora’s Quest, was published in 2024. Lauren has been a guest on several podcasts, and 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 recent recipient of the Publication of the Year (Poetic) Award. Lauren is a contributing author in several anthologies, and her work is showcased on LatinosUSA and Gobblers and Masticadores. She is currently working on her second children’s book and another collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, reveling in simple things, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
To purchase your copy, please click on the image. ❤️
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 