Barnaby Bear was getting ready for bed. But tonight, he wasn’t at home in his cozy cave! He was visiting his friend, Finley Fox, who lived on a big, beautiful farm. The sun was setting, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.
“Finley,” Barnaby yawned, “farms are so busy during the day! What happens when it gets dark?” Finley giggled. “That’s when the farm gets *peaceful*, Barnaby. Come on, I’ll show you!”
Finley led Barnaby past the big red barn. Inside, the cows were settling down for the night, chewing their cud and making soft ‘moo’ sounds. “They’re saying goodnight,” Finley whispered. Barnaby listened carefully. It *was* a gentle sound.
Next, they visited the chickens. They were all tucked into their coop, fluffy and warm. A little hen peeked out and clucked softly. “Even the chickens are sleepy!” Barnaby observed.
They walked by the pigpen, where Penelope Pig was snuggled in the straw. She let out a contented snort. Finley explained, “Penelope loves a good nap after a day of playing in the mud.”
As they walked, Barnaby noticed the crickets chirping in the fields. “What’s that sound?” he asked. “Those are crickets,” Finley replied. “They sing a lullaby to the farm as everyone goes to sleep.”
Finley and Barnaby sat on a hay bale, looking up at the stars. The farm was quiet except for the gentle sounds of the animals and the chirping crickets. Barnaby felt very calm and peaceful.
“It’s a lovely bedtime routine, Finley,” Barnaby said with a sleepy smile. “Thank you for showing me how peaceful the farm can be at night.”
Finley yawned too. “You’re welcome, Barnaby. Now, let’s both get some sleep. Tomorrow will be another busy day on the farm!” They waved goodnight and headed to their cozy beds, dreaming of happy farm animals and twinkling stars. Close your eyes now, little one, and dream sweet farm dreams too.