Are you juggling tons of tasks? Buried by responsibility? Feeling overwhelmed by the state of our world?

Smiles sparked by an unforeseen surprise lift my mood even when I’m not feeling out of sorts. They’re the kind of smiles that prompt me to share their origin story with the world. Yes – that would be you – and thank you for being here.

Now, how about you dig yourself out of that all consuming stress pit and join me to see what’s got me 😄ing today, aside from the blazing sunbeams our ‘lil pea and sweet potato provide for us on a daily basis…

Okay – had to get that in –  now for The Unforeseen Smile:

It spread wide, like a swipe of soft butter across a warm slice of bread, when I read that blogger mate Matt Zurbo’s latest picture book, to be released on June 10, received a Kirkus starred review.         😄 BRAVO Matt! 😄

I’ve been following Matt’s blog 365 Kid’s Books In 365 Days, an ode to his daughter Cielo, since before he reached the one year mark in 2019. The man is a true wordsmith, as is proven in this beautifully written celebration of love for his child.

Don’t these first few lines tug your heart-strings and call you to snuggle with a wee one on your lap – yours, a niece, a nephew, a grandchild, whomever –  and share this deep, delicious expression of love with them?

If I could…
I’d give you the moon to tuck into your pocket.
I’d fold my love between the pages of this book, so every time you open it,
you feel how I do every time I think of you.

Matt’s warm and whimsical wishes go on to show the world is not all filled with unicorns and rainbows as well…

I’d give you every tear I’ve ever cried.
So you can learn from my mistakes—
when to let go,
…how to weather storms.

In the end, however – well, you’ll need to check that out for yourself. Suffice to say,
If I Could is a beautiful, heartwarming children’s book – one to be widely shared. Patrice Barton’s stunning illustrations portray the perfect yin-and-yang balance of art and text. You must have a look HERE and let me know if you agree.

I don’t know about you, but I’m obviously hooked, and have pre-ordered my copies. What a perfect gift this little gem is as well, right? If you do find a purchase in your heart, consider leaving a review on B&N, Goodreads, Amazon, etc…every one of them counts towards its visibility in the world.

Thank you, dear Reader, for taking the time to stop by today.
Be well!
And, once again,

❤️ Congratulations Matt and Patrice ❤️