Rosie was a very busy little red car. She loved zooming around town! She delivered packages, took friends to the park, and even helped Mr. Bumble the baker get his yummy bread to the shops. Vroom, vroom, she went all day long!
But today, Rosie felt…wobbly. Not wobbly like she was going to fall over, but wobbly like her engine was tired. She kept bumping into things – a fluffy cloud of dandelions, a friendly garden gnome, and even a very patient mailbox!
“Oh dear,” said Rosie. “I’m not driving very well today.” Mama Car, a big, strong blue car, saw Rosie struggling. “Rosie, you sound sleepy! Even cars need to rest. It’s almost bedtime for little cars like you.”
Rosie didn’t want to stop! “But I have so much to do!” she exclaimed. “The toys need delivering, and Lily wants to go to the playground!” Mama Car gently explained, “Everything can wait until tomorrow, Rosie. When you’re rested, you’ll be a much better helper.”
Mama Car led Rosie to the car wash. The soapy water felt so nice and relaxing! Then, she drove Rosie to the car park, where all the little cars were settling down for the night. Mr. Grumbles, the parking attendant, waved them in.
“Remember to turn off your headlights, little ones,” Mr. Grumbles called out. Rosie carefully switched off her bright headlights. It felt strange, but also…peaceful.
Mama Car tucked Rosie in with a soft, fluffy car blanket. “Close your eyes, Rosie,” she whispered. “Think about all the fun you’ll have tomorrow, after a good night’s sleep.”
Rosie closed her eyes. She imagined zooming around town, but this time, she was zooming in her dreams! She wasn’t wobbly at all. She was strong and happy and ready for a brand new day. And as she drifted off to sleep, she knew that even the busiest little cars need their rest. Goodnight, Rosie! Goodnight, little cars everywhere!