High on a branch of a great oak tree, a little squirrel named Hazel gathered soft autumn leaves to build himself a warm nest. He worked slowly, laying each leaf carefully over the last.

In the evening, his mother came to help. “A warm home isn't made of leaves alone, little one,” she said, patting his head gently. “It's made of the love we put into it.” She sat beside him, and together they arranged his tiny bed.

When the first cold wind blew, Hazel's nest was ready. He crept inside, wrapped his bushy tail around himself, and felt a gentle warmth fill his little heart.

Through a small gap in his nest, Hazel looked out at the distant stars and smiled before closing his eyes. He knew he was safe and warm, and he slept peacefully until morning.