Barnaby Bear was a very busy bear. He spent his days splashing in the river, collecting berries, and playing hide-and-seek with the squirrels. But as the sun began to set, Barnaby felt…tired. Really, really tired. He yawned a big, bear-sized yawn and rubbed his sleepy eyes. He needed a place to rest.
He wandered deeper into the woods than he usually did, and there, nestled between tall pine trees, he saw it: a little wooden cabin! Smoke curled gently from the chimney, and a warm, golden light spilled from the windows. Barnaby had never seen a cabin before, but it looked…inviting.
Hesitantly, he padded to the door and peeked inside. Old Man Tiber, a kind badger with spectacles perched on his nose, was reading by the fire. “Well now, what have we here?” Old Man Tiber chuckled. “A sleepy bear! Come in, Barnaby, come in. You look like you need a rest.”
Barnaby stepped inside, sniffing the air. It smelled of woodsmoke and warm apples. Old Man Tiber showed Barnaby to a comfy armchair near the crackling fireplace. A soft, knitted blanket was draped over the back. Barnaby snuggled into the chair, feeling the warmth seep into his bones.
“This is…wonderful,” Barnaby mumbled, already feeling his eyelids grow heavy. Old Man Tiber smiled. “Sometimes, the best thing to do is simply slow down and enjoy the quiet. The woods are full of peace, if you take the time to listen.”
Old Man Tiber read a story about twinkling stars and whispering trees, his voice a gentle rumble. Barnaby listened, his breathing becoming slower and deeper with each page. He thought about the cool river, the sweet berries, and the playful squirrels. He was grateful for his day, and grateful for this cozy cabin.
He noticed how the fire danced, casting shadows on the walls. He listened to the wind rustling the leaves outside. It wasn’t scary; it was soothing. The cabin felt safe and warm, a perfect place to be. He felt a sense of calm he hadn't known before.
Soon, Barnaby was fast asleep, dreaming of honeycombs and sunny meadows. Old Man Tiber quietly closed his book and smiled down at the sleeping bear. He knew that even the busiest bears needed a peaceful night’s rest. The cabin in the woods was a perfect place for just that.
As you drift off to sleep, remember Barnaby Bear. Find your own cozy place, breathe deeply, and let the peace of the woods surround you. Close your eyes, and sweet dreams.