When the sun descends behind emerald, rolling hills and evening offers all that it owns, my husband falls into a serious slumber in a matter of seconds – I am envious. It takes more than seconds for my mind to shut down, for thoughts to pause for an evening’s repose.
The flowers in our garden turn in for the night, and the smiles in their blooms wait for dawn’s greeting. Critters burrow in their homes, although darkness calls some to come out and play and we miss the show. Our dreams carry us through minutes and hours until night bids farewell, the cue for morning to slide into her spotlight.
And when she does, we witness again the glorious sun rising over those rolling hills, one more sky where clouds stay hidden, one more kiss from each other, the one who accelerates our heartbeats… when our children our home, they gift us with another hug, age is irrelevant…from babies to adults, their hugs are priceless like the moment we draw a new breath.
And don’t forget how nature delights with her offerings… our feathered friends sing their wake-up chorus of joy, bushy-tailed squirrels skitter along redwood fence tops. How do their tiny feet not miss a step, tumbling their little bodies to the ground?
So, we wipe the sleep from our eyes, gratitude flows through our veins, for all that was lost in the darkness has been found on this fresh, magnificent day.
I am thrilled to share another glowing review for my book, Ever So Gently, from Kaye Lynne Booth at writingtoberead.com. But first, here’s a little bit about Kaye:
She has been writing content on Writing to be Read since 2010, including book reviews, author interviews and reflections on writing. Her first novel, Delilah, was published by Dusty Saddles Publishing in 2016. (Recently re-released as a part of her Women in the West Adventure Series.)
To learn more about Kaye and to read her entire blog post, please click on the link below that follows her wonderful review:
Kaye’s Review:
For me, poetry is best enjoyed in print, where I can hold the book in my hands and leaf through the pages, taking in each poem in small doses, and revisting those poems which have sparked further thought in my mind. So, I was tickled to receive a print copy of Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry from author Lauren Scott. In this delightful collection, we hear the author’s confident approach to life, feel her inner appreciation of the natural world around her, and gain insight into value of connection with the people she loves and cares about.
Poetry is so personal, offering a window into the author’s soul, and EverSoGently does this beautifully. Many of the poems contained within resonated with me on a personal level. As a both nature and animal lover, the vivid images of the cautiously flitting hummingbird, a garden renewed, and beloved pets helped me to feel the moments described within each, as if witnessing or experiencing them.
Messages from the Sea
listen intently inhale, exhale, feel the calm your soul will thank you
secrets ride the waves ebbing, flowing in turquoise we are not privy
whispers in the surf ambiguous to discern relish in their song
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For Lauren Scott, nature is soothing, healing. I can relate with that as nature is also where I go for solace.
Chilling Embrace
I have been embraced by the chilling presence of loneliness. I have wondered where the niche designed for me exists in this world in which my breaths originate. I have waited for the glow to emerge behind the shadows. But when I take that soft step into the splendor of nature, listen to the trees whisper their sagacity, feel the flowing rivers move my pain, creating vast distance between it and me, I have been revived by the compassion that nature offers so unselfishly.
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But my very favorites were the poems in which she expressed her love of the written word, a love that I share, so can relate well with.
Books
Stories, poetry Compelling, transporting, entertaining Turning pages is exciting Paperbacks
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But my true favorite is the poem that shares the title the book is so aptly named for. In it I see clearly the author’s positive, grounded attitude toward life. A wonderful outlook, to be sure.
Ever So Gently
Sometimes we get lost in our thoughts… losing focus of the stars lighting up the night sky. We tumble too deeply into the frontal lobe, allowing negative thoughts to awaken, to throw a tantrum.
Remember, the breeze carries burdens down rivers and across oceans, majestic trees sway with joy, sheltering from shadows, and the light shines even if only a slight glimmer slips through.
Its glow will grow ever so gently into a bright beacon of hope rising with the golden sun bringing clarity to our vision.
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With her uplifting poetic verse Lauren Scott basks in the earth’s beauty, cherishes loved ones, ponders life’s mysteries. Highly recommended. I give Ever So Gently five quills.
Thanks again to Kaye for this beautiful review! I am delighted that she enjoyed my poetry collection because that is the ultimate wish…for the reader to find poems that resonate “as if witnessing or experiencing them” – Kaye’s words. My heart is full! And thanks to you who chose to visit my corner of blogville in the midst of your busy day. ❤️
I’ve analyzed over and over, but everything is a circle, spinning round and round, a kaleidoscope of confusion, nothing makes sense. Will it ever again?
Perhaps, it’s time for a stroll into the forest, time for allowing the breeze to embrace me like the caressing of a silk scarf, for the fragrance of the woods to fill me with reassurance.
I want to be touched by serenity, to walk among nature’s offerings and be immersed into the language of the trees, for the standing giants have a keen sense of awareness.
So I will consult them. I will bring into the openmy unease because they will unselfishly impart the depth of their logic.
I’m late in reblogging several posts, so I’m slowly catching up, and today I’m sharing Carol Anne’s lovely review of my poetry collection and latest release, Ever So Gently. What more could an Indie Author ask for? I am grateful that my poems could provide the balm she needed. Thanks again, Carol Anne! ❤️ And I encourage you to visit her site, therapybits.com. She wrote that you’ll find real and raw emotions in my poetry collection, but you’ll discover the same in her posts.
A little bit about Carol Anne:
My name is Carol anne. I am part of a did system. Did stands for dissociative identity disorder. I also have PTSD posttraumatic stress disorder. I was diagnosed with did in December 2010. I have been blind since birth. I am 35 years old. This is a blog about my life, it will mainly focus on therapy and the process of going through psychotherapy, but I will also post some stuff about my life. I am in college studying IT. It has its challenges but overall I love it.
To read Carol Anne’s review, simply click on the link below. ⬇️
I am touched by those who enjoyed my book and who have written beautiful reviews. 🩵 And a friendly nudge… if you enjoyed my book, please consider sharing a review on Amazon and Goodreads. The best gift for authors! 🙏🏻
Thanks so much for visiting today, and I wish you a wonderful Friday and weekend ahead. ~Lauren 🧡🍁
I’ve written and shared several poems during my father-in-law’s decline on hospice, and then for his passing on Halloween. My last post was a tribute to all our parents who are now together for their eternal adventure. But Wil would say, “It’s time to move on and life your life!” Actually, my parents and my mother-in-law would say the same thing with gusto! So, while we’re in the midst of grieving, taking care of business, and planning Wil’s Celebration of Life, I’m moving forward regarding blog posts, but I truly appreciate all of the kind words and condolences my family has received. 🙏🏻❤️
And now I’ve fallen behind on some reblogs, the first from Barbara at Book Club Mom when she featured my latest book, Ever So Gently. She is a wonderful support to Indie Authors with her Author Update posts. So, thanks again, Barbara! To read the entire post and learn more about my book, click on the link below that will take you to Barbara’s site. Please take time to peruse her blog where she shares the books she reads along with her wonderful reviews. And yes, I’ll most likely share more about Ever So Gently, but that’s life for a self-published author. It’s not easy to promote one’s work, but it has to be done. So, I hope you all understand. 💚
I am touched by those who enjoyed my book and who have written beautiful reviews. 🩵 And a friendly nudge… if you enjoyed my book, please consider sharing a review on Amazon and Goodreads. The best gift for authors! 🙏🏻
And since the holidays are literally around the corner, if you or someone you know would enjoy a book of poetry, Ever So Gently, just may be the right choice! 🤗
“Even though this was an autumn evening, I snuggled in front of my fireplace, let the flames warm my face, and let Scott’s words warm my heart. By looking at the content, I knew gems were waiting to be found. This collection is divided into three parts. The first part touches on nature, the second part on relationships and loved ones, and the third part on thoughts in life.“ ~ Miriam Hurdle, https://theshowersofblessings.com
Thanks so much for visiting today, and I wish you a gentle start to your week. ~ Lauren ❤️
While I was away from blogging, three more 5-star reviews gently flowed in for my book, Ever So Gently. These beautiful reviews added light to the initial reason for my break. And the true reward is learning how my poems resonate with others. So for me, the stars align. ⭐️ Thank you again to Colleen,Robbie, and Miriam. I appreciate you all! ❤️🙏🏻
Another tidbit to share is that my son was recently visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, relaxing by Bear Lake at 9,500 feet elevation after a good hike while reading my book. You may remember that he painted the cover for me on canvas and also helped in the tedious formatting process. But he hadn’t read the poems. And my family is honest, so if there’s something they don’t like, they’ll tell me without hesitation (lovingly, of course). 🙂 Well, he absolutely loved the nature poems, and is currently reading the rest of the book. Fingers crossed, he feels the same way about part 2 and 3. Anyway, I love this photo he sent meand am grateful that my 28-year-old son is taking the time to read ‘his mom’s’ book. ❤️
And now for the wonderful reviews…
From Robbie:
Ever So Gently: A collection of poems is a beautiful memoir of the poet’s life and experiences, mellowed by experience and understanding, and told through carefully selected words. The poems are a mixture of freestyle and syllabic and share some vivid and delightful imagery that celebrates important moments in the poet’s life.
For me, the emphasis with this collection is on the softening of the poet’s attitude towards, and views, on life gained through experience and living. This message, reflected in the title “Ever So Gently” and the beautiful and peaceful cover, is wonderful and absorbing. Its subtle repetition throughout this book is like slipping into a warm bubble bath. It evokes the same delightful sense of peace and calm. My words must not be misunderstood to mean that none of the poems demonstrate moments of anguish and angst, as that is not the case. Those moments, that are so catastrophic and devastating to the poet at the time of occurrence are there, but their harshness is lessened through acceptance and understanding gained over the passage of time.
A few verses that I particularly enjoyed:
“A lone sailboat glides by pausing for the unfolding. With hair the color of an egret, an older man leans against a stump.” From The Sun Knows
“raindrops vacillate layers hold their own secrets delicate delight” From The Peach Rose
“Each purl stitch was interwoven with love from her gentle touch. She, the teacher, me, the student, as our bodies sank into the sofa checkered in a 70’s palette. From The Old Afghan
The two poems that I related to the most were The Mess and Young Campers, both about the poets children. This book is a celebration of life, the good and the less good.
From Colleen:
“Ever So Gently” asks us to accompany the author on a profound journey into the human condition seen through her own experiences. Scott has a way of making the mundane things in life a positive poetic event. That upbeat theme lasts throughout the book.
She split the book into three sections: The Wisdom of Nature; The Noise, the Laughter, the Chaos, the Loved Ones; and Lost in Thought. The author explores nature and how she relates to those quiet times when nature calls her name. The next section deals with the love in her life. The last section deals with the author’s deeper nature as she explores her feelings in greater detail.
I was surprised to see an excellent collection of haiku and other forms of syllabic poetry in the book. It was easy to connect with the variety of poems and themes. I enjoyed all of them!
I had two favorite poems. One was called “The Sign” and the other, “Ever So Gently.” Both poems are contemplative in nature, but filled with hope for the good things in life to enrich our lives.
From Miriam:
Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poems by Lauren Scott is a cozy and delightful read. I love the pastel color scheme of the cover. It conveys a soft feeling like the fluffy feathers caressing my skin. Her son Michael painted the cover on canvas. The title and the cover join in a beautiful harmony.
Even though this was an autumn evening, I snuggled in front of my fireplace, let the flames warm my face, and let Scott’s words warm my heart. By looking at the content, I knew gems were waiting to be found. This collection is divided into three parts. The first part touches on nature, the second part on relationships and loved ones, and the third part on thoughts in life.
Scott painted nature with her soft strokes. “Cottony clouds drift by. We want to move into them, feel their softness enfold us.” “Tiny threads of peace weave into the marrow of our souls mending any fretting that stirred.” “I wonder if pine needles wiggle in delight until they float to the earth…” The vivid imagery invited my presence in her natural world with the hummingbird, the sunflower, the peach rose, the lantana, the rocks, and the shiny shells.
Scott shared her joyous moments of meeting her husband and their newfound love. “Life has blossomed into delight and wonder in every part of its glowing greatness.” She missed her son and daughter, who were grown and gone. She would leave her son’s room messy to remind her of his presence. The days when the children were little were greatly missed. She reminisced about the younger days when her parents moved from place to place and she missed old friends. The old Afghan reminded her of the memory and wisdom of her mom. One Sunday afternoon, she had the last conversation with her dad. “His voice offers no response, silent for eternity, his body, a shell.” Scott’s memorable moments reminded me of my own with my husband, my daughter, and my parents.
The poem “Things I Know, Believe and Imagine” posted a valuable question. “I believe Love should remain the center of all humankind, but since hate continues to linger on the street, here’s a question to ponder… what should we do differently?” A Two-Wheel Getaway told a cheerful story of meeting biking strangers who became instant friends. The star poem Ever So Gently conveyed the message of hope.
“Its [star’s] glow will grow ever so gently Into a bright beacon of hope Rising with the golden sun Bringing clarity to our vision.”
Thank you for visiting today, and I hope these touching reviews entice you into reading my collection.
My husband and I lost the month of September due to our first bout with Covid. A mild case, thankfully, but one that lingered. Additionally, I lost reading momentum, but I’m finally, finally catching up. In the evenings when the sun has bid farewell and the sky begins to darken, I let myself relax while diving into another world whether it be a fictional setting or soothing poetry. When it comes to writing reviews, sometimes I fall behind, but I’m trying to write them soon after I finish a book. We’ll see if I stick to this system. 😁 Anyway, I’m sharing my latest 5-star reviews for some fabulous books, and maybe you’ll be enticed enough to leave with a few. If you click on the book covers, you’ll be transported to Amazon for purchasing your copy or copies. And now for the reviews…
The Shadows We Breathe – An anthology edited by Sarah Brentyn
I thoroughly enjoyed this anthology of short stories written on the overall theme of power. How is it used? Who triumphs and who suffers? This book is compiled with the excellent writing of eight women and is divided into three parts: Flash fiction (500 words), Micro (50 words), and Microbursts (10 words).
The introduction prefaces the intrigue: “Shades of darkness live within – it is the nature of being human. Our uncertainties, mistakes, anxieties, regrets…These are the shadows we breathe.”
Even though the stories are short, they are not flimsy in entertainment. They are well written, powerful, and deep, evoking a myriad of emotions. Some slide into a darker category where the authors skillfully create worlds we only dare to imagine. Each story is compelling and unique, so I am unable to choose a favorite. However, this book is for all fiction enthusiasts who are brave enough to meet the shadows head-on.
Deep in the Forest where Poetry Blooms by D.L. Finn
Deep in the Forest Where Poetry Blooms by D. L. Finn is a gorgeous poetry collection that takes you on a magical journey of exploration through the forest and landscapes of life. The poems are written in free verse, but you’ll also find syllabic poetry such as limerick, tanka, and haiku. If you are a fan of flora and fauna, you will surely enjoy this ode to Mother Nature. So many poems resonate with me, and I read them slowly to relish in their stunning imagery and depth.
The book is divided into two parts where Finn invites you to take a stroll with her through the seasons of the forest as we observe ‘Green new growth and Dawn’s blush (that) filters through pines’ while delighting in ‘icy winter day/yelling in glee on a sled/inner child peeks out.’ Following the everchanging seasons, you’re guided into the enchantment of the forest where ‘Forest fairies celebrate.’ While reading “My Magic” I felt a sense of commonality as though this poem was written for me. Every day, violence dominates the news, so I can’t help but feel like ‘my world (is) gray and heavy.’ This poem begins with a spirit that feels defeated, and then a most uplifting realization arrives at the end.
Once you leave the magical forest, you are transported to the tropics where Finn expresses how this setting can be healing as ‘the tide washes over my skin/pulling life toward/I sink into the wet sand/And become part of the cycle.’ I was impressed to learn that she wrote underwater poetry while snorkeling! A lovely example is ‘sea soiree/mingling with the fish/bring plus one.’
Finn digs deeper into personal emotions in the second part, sharing great advice in “Consequences” and reminding you of the enduring presence of hope in “Life’s Song.” Since my husband and I have traveled many country and mountain roads on his adventure bike, her mountain musings from the back of a Harley evoke breathtaking memories, as well as stirring up excitement for more exhilarating rides to come. One of my favorites:
Distance
It took miles Flying through the pollen-laden air To get present within the moment. My mind racing Through each passing corner. Then I slowly noticed Emerald highlights the horizon. Orange blooms within my reach, Blue skies embrace me. Nature’s hues lightened the day As my worries drifted away. We pressed forward into the unknown, Distance became my harmony.
This collection concludes with a selection of Haibun, which is a new form to me. In “Magic Pages” Finn expresses how important her Kindle is: ‘I can barely contain my joy with so many words…’ And yet, you’ll be immersed into worlds of fantasy, you’ll feel love and grief, learn the truth, and of course, you’ll experience the magic and beauty of nature. Finn’s poems are relatable and elegantly written. A poetry collection that is good for the soul.
Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me by Abbie Johnson Taylor
Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me is the first book by Abbie Johnson Taylor that I have read, and I was thoroughly impressed with her writing. Taylor tells the story about a close-knit family – mom, dad, older and younger daughter, and the mom’s mother who is in a facility suffering with dementia. The grandmother who recalls events from years ago but whose short-term memory fails, shares a secret from the past with the older daughter without realizing it could tear the family apart. I felt compassion for the grandma because one of my family members passed away from dementia.
The chapters are written from the perspective of the family members: Daryl, Marti, Natalie, and Sarah, along with compelling supporting characters, and the story smoothly progresses from beginning to end. Taylor prompts the reader to question how this unsettling news would be received and handled in his or her own family. The story is engaging and well-written with surprising twists and turns. I found the characters to be authentic for their roles and ages, and the dialogue to be natural.
The reader will experience a variety of emotions as the plot unfolds, and there is a lesson to be learned after the turning of the last page. This book is for all fiction fans and for those who enjoy stories with a powerful message. I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Broken Rhodes by Kimber Silver
I honestly can’t believe Broken Rhodes is Kimber Silver’s debut novel. It is so well-written and captivating from start to finish. I didn’t want to put this book down. It took me a few nights to reach the last page, but I could’ve finished in one if life hadn’t interrupted. Below is a glimpse into Chapter One that had me hooked:
“The morning sun peeked over his shoulder to light the way as he stepped farther into the house, but it did nothing to scatter the shadow that darkened this reconnaissance.” Silver created authentic dialogue, entertaining banter, and vivid imagery transporting the reader to Harlow, Kansas. The story offers suspense as a murder is under investigation, but it also includes family drama, and a love story that takes some nudging to get off the ground.
Kinsley, the main female character doesn’t need a knight in shining armor to save her, but she inherits this tough shield from her mysterious past. Once I learned the reason for the toughness, it was easy for me to empathize with her. I always enjoy reading books starring an empowering female lead. And the male lead, Lincoln, is the handsome cowboy sheriff, but a real gentleman. Both characters are likable from the beginning. The supporting characters are just as believable, and a few you’d love to meet for coffee, but several who you could easily loathe and even fear.
Broken Rhodes is a gripping and compelling story, so I’m keeping my eyes open for Silver’s next book. And if you enjoy a good whodunit with a dash of romance, you’ll love this book.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you don’t leave empty-handed! 🤗 *Side note: the order in which I share the reviews, as well as the length of each one, is irrelevant to my ratings. All of these books received 5-stars and are highly recommended.
My hubby and I recently visited our favorite park to hang out with the redwoods. As always, a poem was to be born, but this time, two…I’m sharing a few photos along with the poems that I hope you enjoy and maybe even relate to. Does one speak to you more deeply than the other? I’d love to hear your thoughts…
Magic
We needed magic today, an elixir for our spirits, so our favorite park sent gentle whispers on the autumn breeze as we listened with intent. Just a short drive on long stretches and some winding like an S. We slowly enter into this sanctuary, another universe.
The enchantment of redwoods whirls around us, a balm for our hearts and minds.
We stroll along the glistening creek, observing the brilliant blue from sun’s reflection.
The majesty of the tall giants embraces us – a moment, a place, an experience good for the soul.
Their Gift
Do the redwoods feel sorrow and elation?
Can they sense the heaviness in our hearts as we wander through the grove?
We may never know the answer, but being in their presence deters thoughts that shouldn’t be let loose.
Their majestic aura, a protective embrace, welcomed as we inhale their delicate fragrance of earthy undertones.
I feel the beat of my heart slowing – a calm flowing through my veins. He experiences the same.
Fingers entwined, we stroll among the tall giants, a family connected through deep roots, and we offer our sincerest gratitude for their selfless gift.
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 