Story Of A Near Perfect Landing

Once upon a time, in a green, green meadow, a little bird named Penny was looking for a spot to land. "That looks like a sturdy grey rock," she thought, and she made a perfect touchdown right on top.

But wait! Just as she settled, the 'rock' started to move! Penny's tiny feet wobbled.

"Oh my stars!" chirped Penny, "What kind of rock is this? It's alive!"

From under the speckled blue shell, a happy, grey face peeked out. "A rock?" the creature chuckled, his eyes wrinkling in amusement. "No, silly little bird. I am Timothy the tortoise."

Penny peered down and gasped in delight. The 'rock' was actually Timothy's very large, protective house, decorated with deep blue speckles. He had a warm, kind smile and slow, careful steps.

Penny was so surprised, but then a tiny smile spread across her face. "A tortoise!" she repeated. "Well, that's even better than a rock."

Penny flew down and hopped onto Timothy’s shell, but this time she was ready for the ride. Timothy just kept moving slowly, happy for the company.

"My name is Penny," she offered. "And I'm happy to meet you, Timothy."

From that day on, the two were inseparable. You could often see them wandering the meadow, a speckled blue tortoise carrying a happy little brown bird, sharing stories and exploring the big world together, two perfect friends.