fuonlyknew

I tell you, this story resonated with me. A restless night, struggling to sleep, mind filled with anxiety and stress. Whether young like the boy in this story, or mature, like me, we’ve all been there. Tossing, turning, still…. no sleep. He tries everything, and then someone turns him in a new direction to seek and find rest. And finally, he sleeps.

Told through rhyming and fun and delightful illustrations, the message is clear. Leave it all to God. He’s always there to take away your worries and fears. I wish I was a better writer. Could put into words how relaxed and calm I felt as I read further into the book and was guided by it’s message.

At the end of the book, the author includes discussion questions and some fun craft instructions. A special story for families to read together and so timely after the past couple of years.

Book Description:

Have you ever had great big tingly goosebumps? Or tossed and turned too long on a sleepless night? Have you ever seen tall shadows dance in your doorway? Or found a RELAX-let-go peace deep inside? In Night of Mysterious Blessings, you’ll share in the adventures of a boy and his beloved dog. Enter this curious, oh-so-mysterious night, and be amazed at what you see in the morning’s light. Best of all, uncover the priceless key to worrying less and smiling more.

​So many books stress God is always with us. How fantastic for a book to proclaim the Scriptural truth that God is also within. It’s a lifelong gift for children to discover God makes his home inside them while their hearts are open to receive the mystery.

When did you start writing? 

I loved creating stories long before I could write them down. My sister insisted at night, “Tell me a story.” I’d make one up as I went along. My sister always seemed pleased, but her standards weren’t high. She usually fell asleep at the story’s climax. I started telling my own story in the second grade through a diary.

Are there any secrets from Night of Mysterious Blessings you can share with your readers?

It’s not a huge scoop, but one little-known fact is that I didn’t plan the twist at the book’s end. I was writing the story to its intended conclusion when a more exciting and meaningful ending came to me. I thank my Muse, who is simply Divine.

What is a vital message of your book?

I’d love for kids to know what I needed to hear as a sometimes-fretful child—God loves us so much, He has chosen to live within us. The knowledge that the Spirit dwells within can give kids comfort, strength, confidence, and a good night’s sleep.

The book has a discussion, crafts, and activity section. What’s one popular suggestion?

Kids are excited about going on the “Blessings Hunt,” searching for and listing big and tiny blessings each day. Then, at the week’s end, they share their daily treasures with a parent, grandparent, or someone special in their lives. The following heart-to-heart is extremely popular with their lucky listening partners and the children.

Would you rather live in the city or the country?

The country. The desk where I write has a picture window beside it, and I can watch deer taking their morning walk. I often look away from my computer screen, quiet my mind, and do some window gazing—renewing my energy and inspiration.