Stage IV lung cancer echoed in her mind – her kind doctor said last week with a heavy sigh. She smoked since her teens, enjoying each inhale, so this grave news wasn’t a surprise. But she was young, fifty-nine, with so much love to give. Yet, she was elated with the special news her son and daughter-in-law shared today. A grandma for the first time. How lovely. But with the chilly rainfall came her last breath, and the precious baby girl would arrive later when the leaves gently create a blanket of gold. There will be two lives to celebrate.
My latest collection of poetry – 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. Please click on the link to purchase your copy. Thank you to those who have bought a copy and who have shared wonderful reviews. My heart is full of gratitude.💙🩵💙
Henry was engrossed in a gripping James Patterson novel when his heart jumped a beat. The second episode this week. It skipped again. He called his daughter in the kitchen, and her fingers found the buttons on her cell for emergency. The sun was setting on this Friday when paramedics arrived. Henry was soon x-rayed. Linda called her older sister, and they learned from Dr. Roberts that their elderly dad’s heart was giving up. They knew their parents would soon be reunited. Monday morning, their loving father took his last breath. He would once again dance with his sweetheart.
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!
We sofa snuggle, legs stretched onto the ottoman. The room is ‘movie theater’ dark. Ted Lasso tells a corny joke from the TV. Suddenly, I see eight tiny brown legs moving in the air!
“Holy crap!”
“What?”
“A spider dangling too close to our legs!”
“Oh, Honey. They always seem to find you!”
I’m already in the kitchen, grabbing our ‘spider’ glass then the cardboard that completes this methodical process.
Hubby respectfully takes the glass, scooping the arachnid in, then safely releasing the visitor to freedom outside on the grass.
Laura folds into the patio rocker, breathing in summer’s fragrance. The sun boldly hangs in the bright sky, but today marks the tenth anniversary of that day. Her heart feels heavy.
“I miss you, Mom, and the kids miss their grandma. I just long for another chat, a hug, even one more piece of unsolicited advice.”
She watches a hummingbird soar to the pink geranium hanging from the gazebo. Her mother loved these delightful creatures.
“Is that you, Mom?”
The little bird glides to Laura, hovering at eye level.
Rocking gently, Laura feels the comfort of her mom’s presence.
“What a day I had at school, Bella,” Nick said to his loyal black lab cuddling against his leg. “I finally got the courage to ask Rachel to prom and she said no! I thought she liked me!”
Bella just stared at her human brother, ready to give him a big sloppy kiss on the cheek. She couldn’t help but wag her tail, hoping to get Nick in a tail-wagging mood.
“I can always count on you to cheer me up, Girl. No matter what, you won’t betray me. I guess that’s why they call you ‘Man’s best friend.’
P.S. I’m not sure if this little piece of writing qualifies as a story, but it is 99 words, and you get the message I want to convey. If you’re an animal lover, I hope this story warms your heart.
Happy Friday and weekend ahead, and for those in the U.S., have a safe and fun Fourth of July! Hugs, Lauren ❤️
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 