This is a first for me! It’s 4:00 am and I can’t sleep! A billion thoughts swirl around in my mind and I toss and turn more times than clothes in a dryer! Hubby sleeps like a baby. Go figure! The decision is made to get out of bed. Why not? If we were on the east coast, we’d be enjoying coffee already. So, Good morning! The good thing is that today is Friday, the end of the work week.
A quick foot update, I’ve been pain-free for a week now, most likely from all your love, support, and positivity. I like the sound of that, don’t you? I still kind of hold my breath each day not knowing if a jolt will come. But it’s a miracle that I’ve jotted down a zero in my pain diary for 8 days straight. I did get a second opinion, and the doctor was very nice. He actually concurred with the other doctor’s diagnosis: neuritis or plantar fasciitis. It could be from wearing unsupportive shoes (though comfy) over the years along with aging, that the heel nerve became agitated. But I think I’m on the mend (knock on wood). I hope I’m on the mend. Will the pain return? I don’t know. But I’ve made modifications, so only time will tell. And I have your suggestions for if the pain worsens. In the meantime, I’m living life, gradually getting back into my walking routine. Thanks again for ‘being there.’ 🙏🏻🩷
Anyway, I’m leaving you with a poem to calm your mind…
Do you need rest, solitude for your heart and mind? Accept it, don’t be shy to admit a fraction of you needs only to hear silence. Let stillness enfold you in its calming embrace where the depths of your thoughts can flourish from their lingering state.
Today I’m sharing my 5-star reviews for three wonderful, entertaining books. Hope you enjoy!
In the Tree’s Shadows by D.L. Finn
In the Tree’s Shadow by D. L. Finn is a captivating collection of short stories in a mix of genres, varying from 99 words to novella length. Finn takes the reader on a thrilling ride of paranormal, horror, sci-fi – even romance and fantasy. And her love of the outdoors is apparent as nature is woven into many tales. The worlds she creates are exceptional, showcasing authentic humans and dialogue. I even found the creatures and aliens to be convincing.
The Wow Factor began from the beginning and continued to the end. Some stories are moving and endearing, a few made me turn on more lights, while others made me stop and think. But they are all entertaining.
The collection begins with “End of the Road,” in which the main character is tired of living, but then the storyline shifts. A powerful introduction to Finn’s storytelling that had me intrigued. I enjoyed “A Reminder” since I’m also a nature enthusiast. “This Journey” speaks of a lost loved one, special memories, and how two people will reunite in another life. All dog lovers will be drawn to “The Bench.”
A few favorites that made me wish for daylight are “When the Lights Go Out,” “In that Moment,” and “The Day the Ground Moved.” “The Playdate” was beyond creepy. “In the Shadows” reminded me never to walk alone in the wilderness because the crackling of leaves could truly mean something sinister.
Whatever genre you’re in the mood for, this collection has a story for you. I don’t usually read horror, paranormal, or sci-fi, but I finished this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. You can savor it, though, and take your time, extending the thrilling ride. I’ll add that this is the first book I’ve read by D. L. Finn, and I know it won’t be the last. I truly enjoyed her writing and imagination. Highly recommended for all fiction readers!
Re-Create and Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas
Do you ever carry self-doubt around? Are you a people-pleaser? Are you still trying to figure out your life? If you answer yes to these questions, then Re-Create & Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas is the book for you. I’ve been following Cindy’s blog for a while now, and have grown to admire the caring, vibrant, woman she is. So, I couldn’t wait to read her debut book. I would be hard-pressed to believe that everyone has their life figured out to a tee, no need to ask questions or ponder mysteries. In some ways, I do, but in others, I’m still searching as I bet you are, too.
Georgakas shares her suggestions and knowledge drawn from her experience of being a life coach, and the language she uses is down to earth. She is not shy when it comes to showing her vulnerability. She is simply like you and me, trying to live life to its fullest. The book is organized into 7 Steps To Turn Your Dreams Into Reality, and she ends each chapter with a powerful haiku. Here is a sample…
stay grounded in self listen with all your senses open to insight
Georgakas nudges you into delving deep within your soul to discover your true essence, and then to unearth your true purpose. We all know how powerful negative thoughts can be, and how easily they can push us in the wrong direction. As Georgakas says, “…we can’t let the mind take over, since it is designed to overanalyze and judge everything we do.”
As I’m not in my thirties or forties anymore, this quote rang true, “Every age and stage offers new insights and opportunities to adapt and change; we have never been at this place in our lives before, so it’s important to pause and ask, “Who am I now, and what is my purpose?”
Another question to ponder is, “What life is worth living that is not worth questioning?” And this line stood out, “We have a choice to either paint rainbows or black clouds on our blank canvas.” Georgakas sprinkles many nuggets of wisdom from start to finish, so this compilation of encouragement is a great reminder that can be referred to over and over again.
Re-Create & Celebrate is an empowering book to reiterate how crucial self-love is, how to realize our goals and achieve them, and to enhance personal growth. Highly recommended for all who are still seeking those awaited answers!
Fairies, Myths, and Magic by Colleen M. Chesebro
This book is an enchanting collection of engaging prose and poetry about fairies, myths, and magic. Chesebro’s imagination and vivid imagery filled me with wonder as I turned each page. I felt like I had stepped into the scenes to interact with the delightful characters. Chesebro begins with a celebration of the inspiration of summer solstice, and then she introduces fairies with some fascinating facts.
The poems take on many forms, such as free verse and various styles of syllabic poetry. Regardless, Chesebro adds her special magic when she weaves words together. Below is a lovely example:
“Fairy Magic”
When browsing through memories swirling within your mind, Most people often find – Magic is the least understood of the fairytale arts. Fear not! Look deep into your soul – To remember a time When enchantment explained your world, First seen through the eyes of a child.
I had the pleasure of meeting two adorable pixies and laughing at their shenanigans, but I loved the heartwarming ending. I was introduced to a kind little fairy who yearns for his love to be reciprocated. Chesebro transported me to a shimmering pond for an enlightening experience – “the kind where magic resonates in the shriek of a hawk and in the howling yips from coyote pups that play on the sandy shore under a full moon.” Even the well-known plight of honeybees is woven into her magical stories. And I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Drac, the dragon, who experiences a transformation of heart.
A few favorites are “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” “A Fairy Love Spell,” “The Healer,” and “Halloween Havoc,” which left me with a hilarious, memorable image in my mind.
Throughout the book, I became delightfully swept up in the magic of spells, incantations, and potions. I suggest you carve out some time over a night or two and dive into the magic. You won’t be disappointed. Chesebro’s storytelling and poetic offerings will lift your spirits. Highly recommended!
Do I need fifty dollar words, candlelight and wine to express what’s on my mind? I’m not one to write heartfelt emotions in rhythm or rhyme, no poet am I, and fancy words can’t match the hue in your eyes, so I’ll be wise, take my cue and simply whisper “I Love You”
An oldie from my poetry collection, Finding a Balance, Something soft for this Sunday. ❤️🥂
I thought some ‘silly and fun’ would be in order after my last post.So, I pulled this oldie from my book, New Day, New Dreams. Wow, 2013 seems like 100 years ago!
Anyway, enjoy some Scrabble Soup!
First you need a thought, nothing fancy and it can’t be bought, then add a spoonful of emotion. There’s no magical potion, although, I have a notion you could include humor. According to rumor, laughter’s the best medicine. It always has been. Yet, contrary to giggles, start some tears flowing with a dash of melancholy, or if you’d rather be jolly, Don’t be coy, Sprinkle in joy. Now to spice up your mixture (I think you get the picture) toss in melody with your favored tempo and let your feet dance. Feel the rhythm and give romance a chance. This is where you improvise (write between the lines). Follow your feelings. Close your eyes, peel off your disguise. This is your recipe. This is your vision. Follow your bliss and for a final touch, Seal it with a kiss!
I was pleasantly surprised to receive another glowing review for More than Coffee. This book was released in fall of 2021, so for these amazing reviews to still be flowing in truly warms my heart. Cheryl Orteglia from Living in the Gap wrote a stunner!
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 admire how Scott and her husband are exploring new activities as their nest empties and their courage soars. I especially related to the long hikes and the magical encounters with the wilderness, waterfalls, and a canopy of stars.
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. Don’t miss this opportunity to sit down with a cup of coffee, an old friend and explore the deeper meaning of this one precious life.
I highly recommend More Than Coffee with a five-star review for those of you who love memoirs, mystique, and family love.
Thank you SO much, Cheryl!I’m over the moon again by your most beautiful review, and I’m so grateful you felt as if you belonged in the pages. This line just gets to me in a warm way. ❤️
For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Cheryl, please pay her avisit. She writes engaging posts about real-life stuff! And her sense of humor will have you doubled over! When you read her stories, you’ll find yourself nodding because her tales are so relatable!
If you wrote a review for my book, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! And if you read it and loved it, I hope you’ll consider writing one. I’ve heard through sources here in the land of blogging that reviews are like hugs to Indie authors. Fyi, I love hugs! 🙂
Thanks so much for dropping in, and I wish you an amazing weekend!
~Lauren ❤️
“The majestic trees and vast sky invite you to keep looking up.”
I’m inches away from the finish line for my book. It’s a s-l-o-w process because this poetry collection is larger, which calls for more editing and formatting.Anyway, I still managed to get some good, relaxing reading in, and I thoroughly enjoyed the following books. I hope you enjoy my reviews:
Small Wonders by Kaye Lynne Booth
Small Wonders by Kaye Lynne Booth is a collection of engaging poetry that highlights various phases of her life. Even though the poems are individual to her experiences, I felt a connection with many. The book begins with “Two Little Faerie Princesses” inspired by Booth’s two granddaughters. What a lovely start to this collection.
Her nature poems resonate because I enjoy spending time in the wilderness. “The Mighty River” is stunning, and I could almost hear the water rushing and roaring.“Early Morning” transports me with my husband to the Sierra Nevada Mountains on one of our backpacking trips:
Early Morning
Birds chitter in the trees, interrupting the quiet solitude. The sun edges its way over the horizon in pastel hues, Replacing the early morning chill with the warmth of its soft rays. The wind whispers an early morning greeting through the pines. Golden blades of grass shush in the breeze, bending low to the ground, Then rising and stretching to greet the sun once again. Dewy moisture slowly dissipates as I breathe in the scent of fresh pine. Eyes, barely open, witness the birth of yet another day.
A few more favorites are “There was a Time” that touches on the reality of aging but mixed with a little humor. “To the Slow Motorist” reminds me of how often I get stuck behind a driver who isn’t even going the speed limit. Another delightful poem is “My Muse,” where all writers will nod in understanding. I have stood on the same perplexing corner Booth writes about in “At the Crossroads” and “False Smile” reiterates that everyone has a story.
This charming and touching collection is beautiful and appeals to all senses and emotions. There is poetry in this book for everyone. Highly recommended with 5 glowing stars!
Coming Home by Smitha Vishwanath
ComingHome by Smitha Vishwanath is her debut novel, but it certainly doesn’t read like one. Her storytelling and language flow seamlessly, and the protagonist, Shanaya, is an authentic character with strengths and weaknesses like you and me. We’ve all experienced loss, but when a loss is sudden, shock augments the already wild emotions. Shanaya is devastated by the unexpected death of her mother. Even after two years, she still has trouble moving forward. During this time, she wants to care for her father, but he has different plans, which adds more worry for Shanaya. Both father and daughter struggle to find their way in this new life without the woman they love very much.
At twenty-six years old, Shanaya believes she has her life figured out, yet she has no idea what is in store for her. Romance lies on the horizon, but her journey entails much more nuance. She finds herself on a soul-searching path while trying to move through the heartache. Vishwanath inserts details about marriage – both arranged and derived from love, and she explores relationships with parents, siblings, and friends. Shanaya’s journey transports her to various destinations, and I enjoyed traveling with her as she moved from Dubai to Bangalore to Karela where her life began to shift in an exciting direction. Having never been to this part of the world, I was given a terrific sneak peek through Vishwanath’s vivid descriptions of the landscape.
I always enjoy learning about other cultures, and I became engrossed when Shanaya visited the Ashram for two weeks. This was a spiritual retreat where she practiced yoga and meditation. Lessons were learned, and wisdom was acknowledged by friends she made.
Coming Home is an engaging story of self-discovery, learning about relationships, and truly finding home at last where home isn’t just a place. It’s a comforting realization. Highly recommended for all who enjoy a story with substance and an uplifting ending. Another 5-star rating!
Fifteen First Times by D. G. Kaye
I’ve always enjoyed D.G. Kaye’s conversational writing style. This book is no exception to her honest and entertaining narrative. She has compiled a collection of ‘firsts’ from her teen years relatable to all readers. I felt so at ease that I read this collection in one sitting, feeling like we were comfortably chatting over a glass of wine. These memories invited me to stroll down memory lane, recalling crazy crash diets, first kiss, first boyfriend, and first broken heart that felt like it would never mend. Her amusing fascination with shoes made me chuckle; how she managed those heels is beyond me. I laughed out loud when I read about the first hair dye episode. Her first car was a Ford Mustang given by her wonderful father, and while my first car wasn’t, her story evoked memories of when I bought a blue Mustang a few years later with equal excitement.
Kaye’s anecdotes are witty, engaging, and poignant. She has no trouble sharing her vulnerability. Low self-esteem plagued her in those years, but with her outgoing personality and wild sense of fashion, she rose above it, growing into the confident woman she is today. Being a teenager isn’t easy. Those years are about finding ourselves, figuring out who we are, and Kaye succeeded with spirit!
Kaye ends the collection with an emotive tribute to her late husband, her only true love. My heart still aches for her loss. She writes in her dedication, “To those who’ve been there, done that, and learned from. And for those who’ve yet to venture out and overcome.” She couldn’t have expressed the purpose of this delightful book any better. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a heartwarming memoir and a stroll down memory lane. One more 5-star rating!
Thanks for dropping by, and I hope you’ll find the time, too, for some good reading, whether you enjoy poetry, engaging fiction, or a memoir that will transport you back in time.
I am excited to share with you the Q & A I had the privilege of doing with Spillwords. This interview is aligned with being Author of the Month for May.Thank you again to Dagmara and her team for this incredible opportunity! I won’t repeat myself, so I’ll let you get to the questions…
We offer our first and exclusive Q&A Interview with Lauren Scott, a writer whose literary works have been featured on our Spillwords pages as well as being Author of the Month of May 2023.
What does it mean to be selected as Author of The Month?
I feel honored to receive this wonderful accolade, and I am grateful my family and friends took the time to vote for me. It means my writing has been acknowledged and gained valued exposure among talented authors on your esteemed, literary website.
How have your friends and/or family influenced your writing?
The support I receive from family and friends continually motivates me to write. My son nudged me to start a blog years ago, which has been a wonderful platform to share my writing. These loved ones have also assisted with my books in various ways. Their love and encouragement provides the fuel for me to stay on this path of creativity.
What inspires you to write?
I enjoy the challenge of wordplay, which probably stems from my enjoyment of playing Scrabble. Shaping words into phrases or sentences to express a deep emotion or to paint a picture. Many poems are inspired by my strong marriage, and then motherhood followed, which brought new emotions to the surface. I also feel a deep connection to nature, spending time outdoors, especially camping and backpacking. I find living in the wilderness with essentials tucked into a backpack to be a profound adventure.
I’ve asked for your support before, but I’d be grateful if you’d visit Spillwords.com to read the full interview. You can land there seamlessly by clicking here. 🦋
You don’t need an account to ❤️ the interview, but you do if you’d like to leave a comment, and I welcome your lovely comments here or there. 🙂
Thanks so much for your supportthat is greatly appreciated!
Are you a collector of mugs like I am? Every so often, I have to let go of a few so I can buy more! I always find another mug on a trip that I can’t pass up. My latest additions are from my talented and lovely friend, Marina. She is a fantastic photographer, artist, and musician. In fact, she and her husband, Oannes, have a band MK-O [the music of Marina Kanavaki & Oannes].I think it’s easy to say Marina is definitely multi-talented! But she is also one of the kindest people I’ve ever met (even though it’s only through blogging). Please visit her blog if you haven’t had the pleasure yet. You’ll love her incredible talent but also her gentle nature.
The mugs below are my new additions with artwork by Marina, and I think they are just gorgeous! For some reason, I couldn’t get my act together to take a photo with coffee in them.😁 But I believe you can imagine. They are perfect for a hot, soothing cuppa! Don’t you love the colors and the cheer? We’ve had June gloom weather, so these delightful designs and colors brighten the mood. So, why don’t you pour yourself a cup and enjoy!
If you’re in the mood to shop, check out Marina’s page where you’ll find a whole host of her amazing designs and products.I hope you’ll do some shopping!
Thank you, Marina, for being YOU! I look forward to perusing more of your gorgeous art! ❤️
And now I don’t mean to overwhelm with more about coffee, but yesterday I saw the link come through fromSelma’s blog.She wrote a review for my latest book, More than Coffee, that couldn’t help but put me in the mood to dance! I haven’t known Selma for long in this warm blogging community, but in a short time, I know she is a lovely and compassionate individual, not to mention, a beautiful poet. And I already consider her a dear friend. If you haven’t had the chance to meet Selma, I encourage you to pay her a visit. She will welcome you with open armswhere you can immerse yourself in her incredible writing. Below is her stunning review. I am over the moon again!
Ah, life! It doesn’t come with a manual on how to live it, but if you’re looking for a role model to live authentically to radiate happiness from within, I invite you to look no further than More Than Coffee—Memories in Verse and Prose by Lauren Scott. What a lovely book. It’s loaded with personal stories sprinkled with heartfelt poetry that enhances each phase reached in the Author’s narrative. Her resonant heart and calming voice befriended me from the get-go.
From the preface and the first story, entitled Silver Heirlooms, that opens with the Author telling us about an old set of silverware she inherited from her mother. To the last one, Magic, a poem, she had me glowing with gratitude, as was her hope for me in the preface. Mission accomplished. I’m all lit up.
This Author doesn’t overuse language, and in More Than Coffee, she writes about her life with reverence. The cadence of her voice reached under my skin, and I found myself nodding to her words.
This 63-page paperback compilation of memories in verse and prose is estimated to be a 100-minute read. It is if you want to breeze through it. But slow reader that I am, a sentimental romantic, who loves her family just as much as this Author loves hers, I went slow—savoring her beautiful words. And glad I did—I had many epiphanies and pauses that helped to uplift me for knowing people with beautiful hearts like Author Lauren Scott exist.
In this modern age of AI, fake and negative news in the media, and varied lifestyles, in the middle of just such a life, there exists room for more happiness—this book will get you one step closer.
Because happiness does that—seeing someone happy gets us all closer.
I’m glad I read More Than Coffee—Memories in Verse and Prose by Lauren Scott and want to recommend it to everyone—a resounding 5-star rating.
…Because even second-hand happiness makes us all happy.
Thank you again, Selma! My heart is bursting with gratitude! ❤️
Selma’s original post can be foundhere, and you’ll be able to read her wonderful review for It Ain’t Winning If Without You by Michelle Ayon Navajas, another book added to my TBR.
Thanks so much for dropping in, and I wish you a wonderful week! ❤️❤️
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 