A Soft Bedtime Nest

I came back inside after the garden air started turning chilly, eager to settle down for the night. My beaded bracelets clattered softly against the wooden nightstand as I unfolded a small pastel pink cotton face towel. To keep my restless thoughts quiet, I tucked my medium-sized fluffy white teddy bear right into the center of the towel like a snug sleeping roll. Its rounded ear kept flopping over crooked, making a sudden prick of irritation tighten my throat. I paused, pressed my palms into the plush fabric, and counted four steady breaths. Then I smoothed down its plush ear and nestled right up against its soft side. Breathing slowly together in the dim light feels deeply peaceful.