Barnaby Bear blinked his sleepy eyes. The big, bright sun was starting its slow journey down the sky, painting the clouds soft shades of orange and pink. Barnaby stretched out his little paws and let out a long, sleepy yawn. It was getting close to bedtime in the quiet forest.
He padded slowly and softly back towards his cozy den under the biggest oak tree. The path felt soft and cool under his paws. When he got inside, his den felt warm and safe, and it smelled like comforting earth and a hint of sweet honey. His little bed, made of soft moss, looked extra inviting tonight.
Barnaby sat by the entrance of his den and looked out. He noticed how everything outside was starting to settle down. The busy birds weren't singing their loud, cheerful songs anymore. The chattering squirrels had tucked themselves into their nests. The wind rustled the leaves very, very gently, like a sleepy secret.
Everything was getting quieter and quieter. There were no big noises, just a feeling of calm settling over the forest. Barnaby pulled his soft, leafy blanket up close to his chin and snuggled down into his warm moss bed. Oh, it felt so safe and peaceful right here.
He closed his eyes softly. He didn't need any music or loud sounds to help him feel sleepy tonight. He just needed the quiet. He listened closely. Sometimes, he could hear the soft, gentle sound of his own breathing, going in and out, slow and steady. Sometimes, he could hear the quiet little thump-thump of his happy heart.
These quiet, calm sounds were just right for helping Barnaby feel sleepy. He relaxed his shoulders, then his arms, then his legs. He felt his whole body get heavier and softer in his cozy bed. He thought about the quiet trees outside and his quiet, safe den.
Barnaby’s breathing got even slower and softer. He was so very, very sleepy now. The quiet wrapped around him like his warm blanket, making him feel safe and calm. Barnaby Bear was drifting, drifting, drifting off to sleep, peaceful and still. Goodnight, Barnaby. Goodnight, sleepy little one.