Before we drift into tonight's story, I have a gentle reminder just for those of you who received

a promo code for my audiobook. If you haven't had the chance yet, please take a quiet moment to

redeem your code, and I'd be so grateful if you could also leave a kind review. Your words not only help others discover it,

but they also support me in keeping the podcast completely ad-free and calming, just the way

we love it here. Thank you, dear friend, for your support and for being here. Welcome, dear listener, to another episode of Drip-Off.

My name is Joanne, and I'm so glad you're here to spend some time with me on this cozy night.

Tonight we'll be continuing the Beloved Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder as we begin

her beautiful classic, The Long Winter.

I know so many of you have been enjoying this series and I'm delighted to share the next book

with you.

Before we begin, I'd love to gently remind you that you can subscribe to the Drift Off premium feed,

where you'll receive a brand new bonus bedtime story every week,

plus early access to one regular episode each month.

Your support helps me keep Driftoff completely ad-free and distraction-free so your listening time

can remain peaceful and calm. You'll find the link in the show notes if you'd like to join.

Now, let's take a few moments to settle in before we begin the story.

Go ahead and close your eyes if that feels comfortable.

Take a slow, deep breath in.

And then gently breathe out, letting your body release the day.

Feel the weight of your body sinking into the bed, fully supported, completely at ease with each breath allow your shoulders to soften your hands to unclench your jaw to relax imagine imagine yourself wrapped in a warm quilt safe and, while the quiet hush of night surrounds you. Any lingering thoughts or worries can drift softly away, leaving only calm and comfort.

And when you're ready, let's turn the page together and begin. Chapter 1 Make Hay While the Sun Shines

The mowing machines whirring sounded cheerfully from the old buffalo wallow south of the claim shanty

...