Little Toot was a very busy train. Every day, he puffed and chugged, pulling colorful cars filled with toys, books, and yummy snacks to all the little boys and girls. He loved his job! He loved making everyone happy.
But today, Little Toot felt… tired. His wheels felt wobbly, and his whistle didn’t sound as bright. He tried to chug faster, thinking that would help, but it didn’t. He just felt more and more sleepy.
Old Man Tiber, the wise stationmaster, saw Little Toot struggling. He gently said, “Little Toot, even the busiest trains need to rest. It’s okay to feel tired after working so hard.”
Little Toot looked sad. “But what if everyone needs me?” he asked. “What if they don’t get their toys or snacks?”
Old Man Tiber smiled. “There are other trains who can help while you rest. Big Bertha is strong and speedy, and Rosie is very careful. They’ll take good care of everything.”
So, Little Toot slowly chugged into the roundhouse. A friendly mechanic, Wren, tucked him in with a soft blanket of steam. She checked his wheels and polished his headlight.
Big Bertha and Rosie happily took over Little Toot’s route, delivering everything on time. Everyone was still happy!
As Little Toot closed his eyes, he realized Old Man Tiber was right. Resting wasn’t being lazy; it was being kind to himself. It helped him be the best train he could be.
He dreamed of fluffy clouds shaped like train cars and a gentle rocking motion like the rails. He knew that tomorrow, after a good rest, he would be ready to chugga chugga choo choo all over again!
And as the stars twinkled, Little Toot drifted off to sleep, knowing that even little trains deserve a peaceful bedtime.