Honey was a little horse with a very big heart. She lived on a green farm with lots of friends – fluffy sheep, clucky chickens, and a wise old cow named Bess. But Honey’s favorite thing to do was play with her best friend, Pip, a tiny field mouse.
Every evening, as the sun began to set, Farmer Giles would call, “Time for bed, animals!” The sheep would snuggle together, the chickens would fluff their feathers, and Bess would slowly chew her cud. But Honey often found it hard to settle down. She liked to gallop and play!
“I can’t sleep, Pip!” Honey whinnied softly. “My legs feel too bouncy!” Pip, perched on Honey’s nose, squeaked, “Let’s do our bedtime routine, Honey! That always helps.”
First, Honey and Pip walked slowly around the field, taking deep breaths. Pip reminded Honey to smell the sweet clover and feel the cool grass under her hooves. “Breathe in… breathe out…” Pip squeaked, and Honey tried to copy him.
Next, they went to the little stream and Honey gently splashed water on her legs. It felt cool and calming. Pip helped wash Honey’s face with a soft leaf. “All clean!” he chirped.
Then, Honey and Pip found a cozy spot under the big oak tree. Pip told Honey a story about a brave little ladybug who flew all the way to the top of a sunflower. Honey listened carefully, her eyes getting heavier and heavier.
Farmer Giles brought Honey a soft blanket and a bucket of fresh water. Honey drank slowly, feeling peaceful and relaxed. Pip snuggled close to her warm neck.
“Thank you, Pip,” Honey whispered. “Our bedtime routine really works!” Pip yawned. “It does, doesn’t it? Now close your eyes, Honey. Sweet dreams.”
Honey closed her eyes, picturing the brave ladybug and the sweet clover. She felt safe, loved, and very sleepy. Soon, she was dreaming happy horse dreams, filled with galloping adventures and the gentle squeaks of her best friend, Pip. And as the moon shone brightly, Honey slept soundly all through the night.