This morning, I woke up with the greatest idea for a story. It was an original concept, and I had a strong character in mind.
And then…
I fell back asleep.
And I forgot the idea.
The only thing I remember is that the character was female, and I believe she was a young girl.
Tonight I’m going to bed with a notebook and a pen by my bed again.
Slightly Ignorant 
Gosh, I hope it comes back to you! That’s a bumber!
Kathy
I keep a notebook and several pens bedside. Husband knows not to ask me what’s wrong if I turn on the light. (Seems like sleeping and driving are when I have all my ideas!)
Noooooooo! Gah, I hate when that happens!
I always sleep with a notebook under my pillow, but sometimes I think I’ve written something down, only to find that I just dreamed I wrote it down. Other times I can’t decipher my code words/scrawl in the morning. XD Usually it works pretty well, though.
Good luck!
xoxo