Barnaby Bear was getting ready for bed. The sun had said goodnight, and the stars were twinkling like tiny diamonds. But Barnaby wasn't quite sleepy yet. He wiggled his toes and yawned a little yawn, but his eyes were still wide open!
“Nana?” Barnaby called out. Nana Bear was the best Nana in the whole wide world. She smelled like warm honey and always had the softest hugs. Nana Bear bustled into the room, her glasses perched on her nose.
“What is my little bear thinking about?” Nana asked, settling onto the edge of Barnaby’s bed. Barnaby snuggled close. “I’m just not sleepy,” he mumbled.
Nana smiled. “Sometimes, when we’re not sleepy, it helps to think about all the wonderful things we did today.” Barnaby thought for a moment. “I played with my friends! And I helped Papa Bear gather berries!”
“Wonderful!” Nana said. “And what else?” Barnaby remembered splashing in the cool stream. “I splashed in the water!” he giggled. Nana chuckled. “That sounds like fun. And you were very careful and listened to Papa Bear.”
Nana began to gently stroke Barnaby’s fur. “Thinking about happy things, and remembering all the love around you, can make sleepy feelings come.” She told Barnaby about *her* day – how she’d baked a delicious honey cake and read a story to the little birds.
As Nana talked, Barnaby’s eyelids started to feel heavy. He thought about Nana’s warm hugs, the sweet taste of berries, and the fun he had with his friends. He felt safe and loved.
“Nana,” Barnaby whispered, “I’m feeling sleepy now.” Nana kissed Barnaby’s forehead. “That’s wonderful, my little bear. Sweet dreams.”
Barnaby closed his eyes, feeling cozy and warm. He knew that even when he was asleep, Nana’s love would be right there with him. He drifted off to sleep, dreaming of honey cakes and splashing in the stream, thankful for his wonderful Nana.