The fairy had come to earth for the first time, and everything around was unusual and interesting. Because of this, the sorceress very much wanted to find friends and fulfill their dreams. Landing on a tree branch next to a bird shivering from the cold, the fairy spoke.

Hello! Who are you? Are you frozen?

The red-breasted bullfinch slowly turned its head and looked at the tiny, tiny transparent girl.

Chirp-chirp-chirp, I'm a bullfinch. It's very cold outside. I'm freezing, I'm hungry. Who are you?

I'm a little fairy, I've come down from heaven for one night to help my friends. Will you be my friend?

It's strange somehow: a bird and a fairy—friends. Does that happen? But if you want, I'll be your friend!

What do you like to eat? — the curious sorceress asked quietly.

It would be nice to peck at some bread crumbs or grain and warm up.

The little fairy rose high into the sky, spun around like a top, and the frost began to subside. The street warmed up, and from the sky onto the tree where the bullfinch sat, bread crumbs and grains began to fall.

Thank you, fairy! Chirp-chirp-chirp! — the bullfinch chirped happily.

Goodbye! We'll meet next year! — the sorceress cried out as she flew away.

The bullfinch descended from the branch onto the snow and began to peck at the crumbs. Other birds from the winter park joined it.

Where did all this food come from? Where is such abundance? — they chattered over each other.

Magic! — the bullfinch answered them.

The fairy flew on and saw: a red cat sitting on the windowsill of a large house, meowing loudly, shivering. And behind the glass, music was playing, and shadows were moving across the wall.

Hello! Who are you? — the fairy asked, sitting down next to the cat.

I'm a cat named Murka, sitting under the window, and my owners are celebrating and forgot about me. I meow, but they don't hear. If only they would open the window, I could quickly jump into the room.

Let's be friends! — the sorceress suggested.

Let's! What's your name?

Fairy.

You're so small, — and the cat licked the new friend with her pink tongue.

I'll go up now and try to open the window, and you get ready to jump.

The fairy spun around like a top very quickly and flew to the window. The window opened, and Murka jumped inside.

Thank you, friend! — Murka meowed, pressing her nose against the cold glass.

Goodbye! — the fairy replied.

She flew on and saw: it was dark outside, a blizzard was raging, the frost was crackling, and a man sat alone on the snow near a bus stop. The sorceress flew up to him and perched on his cold nose.

Are you unwell? Are you frozen?

My heart is bad, and I forgot my medicine at home, — he whispered barely audibly.

How can I help you?

I need to call an ambulance, — the sick man barely uttered and closed his eyes.

What should I do? — the fairy was confused. — How do I call an ambulance—I don't know. I need to ask someone.

Just then a city bus pulled up, and passengers got out.

Look, there's a man sitting in the snow over there. Maybe he fell asleep? — someone said.

Drunk, probably! — an elderly woman said loudly and angrily.

Then the fairy flew to her nose.

Not drunk, but sick, — the sorceress cried out with all her might.

Yes, yes, sick, — the woman suddenly stopped, not understanding where the thin voice in her head came from. — I'll call an ambulance now and wait for it to arrive.

That's right! You're not evil, you're just pretending, — the fairy said and flew high up. The woman heard her words. She looked around, but saw no one.

Christmas. Magic. A miracle... — she said in amazement, dialing "103".

A young white goat named Nyuska came out into the yard with her large herd and saw snow for the first time.

It covered all the earth in the yard, lay on the roof of a large long barn, wrapped the trees in a white coat, and painted the tall mesh fence a silvery color.

Looking at this sparkling beauty with her huge eyes, Nyuska licked the trough with her pink tongue.

What are you doing? — asked Stesha, the oldest goat.

I thought it was new hay, or maybe feed. What if our watchdog Barbos scattered such beautiful food at night? — answered the young goat.

Baa-aa-aa! Baa-aa-aa! — the herd laughed together.

You were born in spring, — Nyuska's mother, the goat Mashka, began to tell her, — when the snow had already melted and the earth removed its white blanket. The sun shone brightly and warmed everything around. Green leaves began to grow on the trees, and tender grass on the meadow. The grass grows, and the owner cuts it with a scythe, dries it, and then stacks it in a haystack and feeds us with it in winter.

In summer, vegetables grow in the garden: beets, carrots, rutabaga, potatoes, pumpkin. Warm rain and sun help them ripen, — Mashka continued, — and then autumn comes. The rain becomes prickly, an evil wind appears, the leaves on the trees turn yellow, and the grass wilts from the cold. We sleep in a warm barn so we don't catch a cold. And then winter comes — snow covers the earth and trees, as happened today. And frost arrives.

And who is this frost? — Nyuska asked naively.

It's an evil fellow who pinches your nose and ears. He brings an icy blizzard with him. Then our owner doesn't let us outside, and we spend the whole day in the barn, chewing hay and bleating because we want to go outside, even though we know it's cold out there, — her mother explained.

In severe cold, we're given feed and juicy chopped vegetables. Today there's no strong frost or blizzard, so the owner let us out into the pen — to breathe fresh air, jump around and play, — added the oldest goat Stesha. And then she bleated, — do you hear? The owner is bringing us food!

Is the dog Barbos barking at someone? — the herd became alarmed.

Look, a stranger owner came with our owner, — Mashka sang softly, shielding Nyuska, — ours will probably give someone away. They're choosing now...

Maybe we should hide? Let's go into the barn, — Nyuska suggested.

It's too late, they've already looked us all over. They only take the young ones. Adults are needed. We give milk, which children love. It's very healthy. We have a lot of wool. They knit warm mittens and socks, hats and scarves from it. But you young ones still need to be raised and taught everything, — answered Stesha.

I hope they don't take me! I don't want to part with my mother, — squeaked the young goat. From worry, she trembled and stopped chewing the carrot.

Nyuska watched as the stranger owner took the young feisty goat Valka by the ears and led her to the gate.

How lucky I am! The other owner didn't choose me! I'm staying home! — thought Nyuska, happily munching on a piece of juicy pumpkin.

A young violin, standing in a duet with the piano, dreamed of singing like her older friend. After all, the piano's melody always resonated in the hearts of listeners in a special way.

The violin was deeply saddened by this, and often let down a young violinist—who was just as young as she was—by breaking a string during rehearsals. One day, after breaking a string once again, she cried bitterly.

Why can't I play like the piano, amazing and impressing even the most demanding music lovers! It stands proudly among the instruments, while I am just one of many violins in the orchestra. I will never be able to play such magical music…

Hearing this, the viola, who always played in the shadow of the piano, violins, and other instruments, was surprised.

The violin doesn't need to sing like the piano, he said. The violin can captivate with its own song. Every instrument is important. And every violin in the orchestra is unique in its sound and irreplaceable.

But who will remember my song? Everyone will remember the piano! Isn't that wonderful, tell me?! That means it's special, and we are just one of hundreds of instruments, the violin answered.

Yes, perhaps we are one of many, the viola said thoughtfully, but there will definitely be a soul for whom our song becomes the most beloved. And for us, that person will come to the concert. Be yourself, don't try to sing what you're not meant to sing. Don't let down the young musician who performs wonderful pieces with your help.

How I wish I could outshine the piano today. But my string is broken. Well, let's have a wonderful concert, viola. Thank you for your support. Oh, if only I could sing just once… the violin sighed.

A wonderful concert! Don't be sad, your young maestro will replace your string. Just believe: our moment will come too, the main thing is to sing the way we sing, the viola encouraged his friend.

After replacing the string of his beloved instrument, the young violinist stepped onto the stage. The old piano began to play, the viola sounded, and it was the violin's turn. But she wanted so badly to play better than the others that her string broke again from the difficult melody. And then the hall froze in bewilderment.

Just one more minute, one more minute, and my violin will sing again. It will sing in a way no other violin has ever sung. Don't blame her for striving toward her dream, she is the best of all, the musician whispered with a tremor in his voice.

Hearing this, the violin played the familiar melody in a way no one had ever heard before. She played beautifully, not wanting to disappoint her maestro. The hall applauded her for a long time, and the young creator's eyes shone. After all, he believed in the violin, and for him there was no better instrument in the whole world.

The concert ended, and everyone returned to their places.

You were right, dear friend viola, the violin said, today everyone heard and loved me for being me. We are wonderful when we perform our own song and don't strive for what is foreign to us. How naive I was, thinking that someone else's song would bring me success. I broke my strings for nothing. I like the sound of the piano, but I completely forgot that the violin sings just as beautifully. Being a violin is a great happiness!

Yes, your song today was more wonderful than ever. Bravo, violin! the viola answered, with sincere joy for his friend singing in every string.

The viola and violin remained friends for many years, performing many concerts together. The violin shone, and more and more people came to listen to her. She began to perform solos in beautiful pieces. And now she loved how they sounded in a duet with the piano, standing proudly among the other instruments.

If you listen carefully, you can hear the unique music of each person's soul. Like different instruments, our melodies sound wonderful, but no matter how hard you try, they won't play any other way. That's why it's important to perform your own song. That's the special charm, my young friend.

In the evenings, the little mouse would visit a musician who lived at the edge of the forest, having retreated from people to create his greatest melody. The little one would climb up high and sit on his hind legs, listening with bated breath as the creator played, barely touching the black and white keys of an old piano.

One evening, the musician noticed his guest, approached him, and held out a few blueberries in his palm. The mouse was not frightened. He heard the music of the soul and felt that before him stood a good person, so he ate the berries and stayed in place.

The musician understood that the little one was waiting for a new melody to flow from the old, faithful piano, devoted to the most beautiful form of communication. But why doesn't he leave when there's no music? Surely he must be very scared to be so close to a human. And the maestro began to speak.

How beautiful the forest is in summer! So many bright colors and aromas of flowering plants! And it's true, my little music lover: summer sounds special. Now I will play you its melody, written by a wonderful composer. So, Antonio Lucio Vivaldi, "The Four Seasons," "Summer."

As soon as the musician finished playing, the mouse jumped to the floor and disappeared behind the slightly open door.

Time passed. Autumn arrived. Leaves swirled in a whirlwind, and the aroma of foliage turned golden hung in the air like mist. Rains visited the forest more and more often, and it grew colder.

One evening, the mouse, as usual, came to listen to music. Suddenly, in his favorite spot, he discovered a small house—warm and cozy. Making himself comfortable there, the little creature prepared to listen.

But the musician was in no hurry to play. He handed the mouse a piece of apple and spoke.

Well, hello, my little lover of beauty! I'm glad to see you. Have you noticed? The birds are flying south, the forest has turned golden, and it's grown colder. Autumn has arrived. It's time for us, my friend, to listen to how it sounds. Make yourself comfortable. Antonio Lucio Vivaldi, "The Four Seasons," "Autumn."

The maestro finished the melody, but the mouse no longer wanted to leave his corner. He sat and listened to the music of the greatest creator. Of course, he knew no others, but this man had become his friend, giving him a beautifully sounding world and a new home.

Now the mouse and the musician were inseparable. The maestro composed melodies, and the little gray one hid from the cold in his cozy nest and listened. And wonderful sounds flowed in the distance from the bustle, in the house at the edge of the old forest.

The musician prepared for winter, stocking up on mushrooms, cranberries, and nuts. And then winter arrived.

The forest was wrapped in a blanket of snow, blizzards visited more and more often, but in the house of the mouse and the musician it was warm. And with music, the long evenings became merrier.

One morning, the maestro set out for a walk. He stepped onto the icy surface of the river to get a better look at the winter forest and hear its songs. Lost in thought, he stumbled and fell through a hole in the ice. With great difficulty, he made it back home. After changing into dry clothes and warming up, he sat down to play for his little friend.

How beautiful is the forest, asleep until spring under a white blanket. It is quiet and frosty, and the sharp air tickles the nose. Winter has its own charm. Are you ready to hear how winter sounds? Antonio Lucio Vivaldi, "The Four Seasons," "Winter."

The musician finished the melody and stood up from his chair. Swaying, he headed to the table to get some dried cranberries to treat the mouse, but suddenly collapsed onto the carpet, exhausted.

The little creature felt that something was wrong with his friend. Scurrying through a crack by the door, the mouse found himself outside. The forest was indeed beautiful under its white blanket, but the creature wasn't thinking about that. He was thinking about how to help the musician, and he decided to find someone who could heal him.

From running through deep snow, the mouse was exhausted. When you're tiny, it's hard to make your way through snowdrifts, but what won't you do for a friend. Finally, he spotted a house, and next to it his greatest enemy—a cat.

It was terrifying to go forward. With his last strength, the mouse rushed ahead and squeezed through a crack. He saw a man studying some papers.

The gray little one approached him very closely and squeaked pitifully. The man looked at the mouse.

Well, hello! It's not often you see such guests in a house. What happened to you? I'm a doctor, I can help. Allow me to examine you.

Taking the mouse in his hands, the doctor carefully examined his back, head, paws, and belly.

You are completely healthy, my little friend, although it seems you've been running for a long time and are very tired. Something is troubling you. Now I'll feed you, and then we'll think about what to do.

The doctor handed the mouse a spoon of porridge. The little one ate and, turning toward the door, began to wait for the doctor to follow him.

The healer understood the mouse and grabbed his coat and medical bag. The creature ran with incredible speed. Finally, they reached the musician's house.

The doctor entered and saw the maestro sitting on the floor. The doctor helped him into bed, examined him, and gave him medicine. The musician grimaced: the mixture was nothing like a sweet candy. The little creature grimaced along with his friend.

All night the doctor sat by the patient's bedside, bringing down the fever. The mouse, pressing his little face into his friend's hand, slept, exhausted from the long journey.

In the morning, the musician felt better. The doctor left him the necessary medicines and departed, saying he would check in a week.

The musician recovered. He took up his greatest melody again, and winter came to an end. Outside it grew warmer, birds returned from warm lands, snow melted, and snowdrops bloomed.

One day the maestro approached the window, opened it wide, and breathed in the spring air. Everything around was filled with the freshness of nature, awakening from a long sleep. He stepped out onto the forest edge, admired the first flowers, and returning home, sat down at the piano.

How beautiful spring is, my friend! How lovely is nature awakening from sleep! How wonderfully the birds sing, returning after the long winter to their native lands! And yet I might not have seen and heard all of this if you hadn't brought the doctor. Thank you! I will play you a beautiful melody in which all the charm of spring lives. So, Antonio Lucio Vivaldi, "The Four Seasons," "Spring."

After finishing, the maestro took out a few cranberries, dried back in autumn, from a small cabinet and handed them to the mouse.

Here, my little savior! Soon summer will come again. That's how the seasons change. Now you know how they sound. And each one has its own unique beauty, music, and aroma. For some reason, I believe that in our lives there will be many more springs and winters, changing one after another, always and in their turn…

And so the mouse and the musician lived on the forest edge. The musician wrote his greatest melody. The mouse rejoiced with all his heart and was proud of his friend.

Believe it or not, but that's how it was… Love of music bound the wonderful maestro and the little gray creature together with a strong friendship.

It happened during the coldest and snowiest winter. Moose were walking through the forest. At the front was the leader—the oldest and most enduring. He was tramping a path through deep snowdrifts. In the middle of the herd were two mother moose with small calves.

A cold wind blew and snow began to fall. The gusts grew stronger, and a terrible blizzard swirled around them.

The leader said that soon there would be a clearing where everyone should lie down in a large snowdrift. That way it would be warmer—they could wait out the bad weather.

When the moose reached the clearing, a pack of hungry wolves appeared. The moose, frightened, scattered in different directions. A struggle began with the hungry predators.

One mother moose pushed her calf with her forehead and urged him to run: "Little one, move your legs faster, we need to leave the edge and hide from the wolves in the forest, get lost among the pines and spruces."

Go into the forest, and I'll fight off the wolf! He's almost caught us!" she suddenly cried out...

Not far from this clearing, on the edge of the forest, stood a sturdy log cabin with outbuildings. In the cabin lived an old forester with his wife.

Grandma, tomorrow the grandchildren arrive for winter vacation," said the forester, sitting at the table and sipping fragrant herbal tea.

It will be fun with them!... Look what a blizzard has started," answered his wife, looking out the window.

I'll go to the station in the morning on horseback to meet them," said the grandfather.

Better on the snowmobile," suggested the mistress of the house.

You're right. Why torture the horse in such snow? Better on the snowmobile.

I'll prepare a fur coat and felt boots, just in case the grandchildren get cold. They're city kids after all: they don't wear fur coats or felt boots.

Early in the morning the forester took the snowmobile and went to the station. Suddenly he sees: not far from the road there's a strange snowdrift—it's moving. The forester stopped and approached the snowdrift. He looks, and there's a little moose calf lying there. Frozen, shivering.

Oh, you poor thing... Where's your mother?" sighed the grandfather. He looked around and noticed blood on some of the trees.

Wolves attacked. I wonder if your mother is alive or if the wolves killed her? I'll have to go back, I can't leave you here.

The forester wrapped the moose calf in a fur coat, tied it with ropes to the snowmobile, and slowly drove back.

Grandma, I brought you a gift," he said, entering the cabin. "Here it is!"

Oh my! A moose calf! We need to warm him up and give him warm milk to drink. You go quickly, or you'll be late for the train. I'll take care of everything.

The forester met his grandchildren—ten-year-old Lera and Lenia—and came home.

Grandma, grandma, is that a calf? Did Burenka have a calf?" asked the children, seeing the animal.

No, Burenka will become a mother in spring, but this is a moose calf. Grandfather found him in the forest this morning.

Grandfather, where are his parents?" asked Lera and Lenia in surprise.

I don't know if his mother is alive. Wolves apparently attacked the moose last night. The herd scattered in different directions. The little one got lost, separated from his mother," answered grandfather.

Maybe she was protecting him from the wolf," added grandmother, "and she herself perished..."

Oh, how sad," said Lera, almost crying.

No, she's alive. Don't cry!" said grandfather, giving grandmother a reproachful look. "There was a blizzard all night, so the little one got lost."

But how will his mother moose find him now?" asked Lenia.

She'll find him," answered grandmother. "I warmed him up and gave him warm milk. When it gets warmer outside, I'll let him out to play in the pen with the goats. The moose will find him by scent. Wash your hands and come to the table, I've made pancakes. Then you'll go with grandfather to take the calf to the pen."

What else will we do today?" asked Lenia with interest.

What else! I need to check on the property, see if everything is in order. Want to come with me? And after lunch we'll go skiing," offered the forester.

Grandfather, do you check your lands every day?" asked the grandson.

Twice a day: morning and evening.

Will we decorate the Christmas tree?" asked Lera, distracted from her pancakes.

I'll go to the forest right now and bring one back," answered grandfather.

I'm coming with you!" said the grandson eagerly.

And I'll help grandmother," offered the girl, and began clearing the dishes. "Then we'll decorate the tree."

Granddaughter, I'll give you some cut vegetables. Take them to the goats, and the calf might eat some too," said grandmother, getting up from her chair.

Grandma, what if the mother moose doesn't show up? Will the calf stay with us?" squeaked the granddaughter.

Probably.

Let's give him a name.

Yes, we can do that. Think!

Losya. Let's call him Losya. We don't know if it's a girl or a boy. And this name works for anyone.

Oh, you're such an inventor!" laughed grandmother.

A day passed. Losya settled in and played with the goats in the pen.

Early in the morning, a mother moose came limping slowly out of the forest. She approached the pen and called loudly to her calf.

A-a-a-e-e-e, a-a-a-e-e-e! Little one, I found you!

Ma-ma-a-a," answered Losya.

In the forester's house they heard the cry. The dog barked loudly. Everyone ran outside.

The moose is exhausted, she's wounded," said the forester anxiously, buttoning his coat as he ran, "I can see it from far away."

As the people ran to the pen, the moose collapsed to the ground.

We need to call the veterinarian," said the man with concern.

Is she dead?" asked the girl, frightened.

What will we do with her now?" asked the boy quietly, standing at attention. "Butcher her?"

No, no! We'll drag her into the pen and treat her, feed her," answered grandmother.

We'll take her to the barn with Burenka, there's plenty of space and it's warm," added grandfather.

Grandma, grandfather, will we treat the moose and the calf?!" said Lenia excitedly. "That's great! I'll write an essay at school about winter vacation. All my classmates will be amazed!"

You just want to brag and show off," giggled his sister.

When they get better, they'll go back to the forest. We won't keep them here," decided the forester.

The veterinarian came in the evening. He said the wolves had badly mauled the moose.

I'm amazed she survived. She must have really wanted to find her calf. It looks like we'll have guests until spring," said grandfather, entering the cabin. "Well, grandma, now we definitely won't be bored."

Grandfather laughed.

Hooray! Losya will live here until spring. We'll come visit you during spring vacation too," said the granddaughter happily. "Will they cure the moose?"

Of course, we have a knowledgeable veterinarian.

A little rabbit with long ears, wearing a white fluffy coat, hopped along the forest path. Hop-skip, hop-skip… He had never seen such a forest before: it was the first winter of his life.

The rabbit's mood was playful. He was gnawing on a large orange carrot and humming a little song:

I'm a cheerful little rabbit.
I hop through the forest.
I sing a cheerful song.
A black crow
Gave me a carrot,
I gnaw it and sing a song.

A little squirrel descended from a large oak tree to meet the hopper.

Hello, little rabbit! You're so cheerful, gnawing on a carrot, singing a song. But where is your gray coat? And who gave you this new one—so white and fluffy?

Hello, squirrel! All rabbits change their gray coat to a white one in winter. This is so we can hide easily in the forest: behind white snowdrifts, bushes in the snow, and trees in white garments. That way, the fox and wolf won't be able to see us. Nature gave us little rabbits—cheerful rascals—such a gift.

I have a new coat too! Didn't you notice!

You're right, I didn't notice... So you change your coats for winter too?

Yes. Only our squirrel coats change from reddish to grayish. This is so we can't be seen in the trees," answered the squirrel. "And we also store delicious supplies in our pantries in the hollows of trees during summer: pinecones, dried mushrooms, nuts, berries. And in winter we take them out and eat them, and treat our friends. Here's an acorn for you! Enjoy!

Thank you, squirrel. I'll give you a piece of sweet carrot.

The little rabbit bit off a piece of carrot, gave it to the squirrel, and hopped on. He hops, sings a song, and gnaws on the carrot:

I'm a cheerful little rabbit,
In my new white coat.
I sing a cheerful song
And I gnaw on my carrot.
I treat everyone to sweet,
Juicy... candy!

A grouse appeared on the path in front of the rabbit.

Hello, rabbit! I want some candy.

Hello, grouse! Here's my candy," and the rabbit handed him the carrot.

What kind of candy is that?" wondered the grouse. "That's a carrot!"

For me, a rabbit, it's delicious candy!" said the hopper with a playful wink, and then boasted, "I have a new coat, look: it's white!"

In winter I hide in a snowdrift, I'm warm and don't need a coat," answered the grouse, "but I'll take a piece of carrot. Thank you! Here are some birch buds for you. They're so delicious! We love them very much!"

Thank you, grouse, for the gift!" the rabbit rejoiced and hopped on.

The happy rabbit hops along the path and sings a song:

I'm a cheerful little rabbit,
I jump and hop—
I sing a song.
I treat everyone to carrot
And receive gifts!

Suddenly, long shaggy sticks appeared in his path out of nowhere. The rabbit raised his head, and there stood an enormous moose. He had large antlers on his head. The rabbit got scared, trembled, and fell silent at once.

Are you scared of me, rabbit?" said the moose loudly. "Don't be afraid. We moose don't hurt such small creatures."

I'm a cheerful little rabbit. I sing a song, I gnaw on a carrot..." mumbled the little rabbit.

You're a good fellow! Will you treat me to some carrot?"

Of course," said the little rabbit quietly, and handed all his carrot to the moose.

The large moose head bent down to the ground, and the rabbit placed the carrot right into the large mouth.

Thank you, rabbit, for such a delicious gift!"

From behind the bushes, a red fox watched this scene. She had been following the rabbit for a long time, wanting to attack, grab him, and take him to her burrow. But suddenly the little rabbit started talking to an enormous moose. And the fox was afraid of moose: they have large antlers that hurt when they poke. And the brave rabbit had treated this giant to a carrot...

The fox became frightened. She realized that the rabbit was a friend of the large moose, and now she couldn't hurt him. In a panic, the fox ran through the forest and began telling all the animals and birds about the brave rabbit.

The little rabbit is now a friend of the large moose!" she cried, running through the forest and sweeping her fluffy tail to cover her tracks.

One day, curled up,
He lay
And slept under a green bush.

And he dreamed a wonderful dream.
And a fox ran past him.
And it seemed to her, as if a wasp

Suddenly and boldly had stung her.
But it was a spine that pierced her paws.
The fox cried out: "Oh, how it hurts me!".

And her voice sounded displeased.
The hedgehog woke up from the fox's moan.
The fox looked at him angrily and sternly.

"Forgive me," said the hedgehog guiltily,
"I didn't mean to prick your paw.
You, little fox, should watch where you're going!".
Yes, these hedgehogs are very prickly…

Warm summer was coming to an end, autumn was approaching. It was time for Buzzy to go to bumblebee kindergarten. Buzzy was quick and sociable and was eagerly looking forward to this moment.

After all, it's so interesting there and there are so many friends! ― said the little bumblebee happily.

Finally Buzzy was taken to kindergarten, and she began to gradually get used to the new daily routine.

The teachers and nanny praised her, saying that she was a very good and kind little bumblebee. And Buzzy liked being at kindergarten too.

At first she went to kindergarten until noon. But then it was time to stay in the bumblebee group until after lunch, and then ― to sleep in little bumblebee burrows.

Our Buzzy was very upset, began to buzz discontent and cry. She didn't like sleeping during the day, but that was the rule at kindergarten!

Buzzy didn't sleep at lunch! And by evening, when mom came to pick her up, Buzzy didn't have the strength to fly home.

Mom, I'm tired and I don't want to fly to kindergarten anymore!

What's wrong, what's the matter with you, my little quick Buzzy?

I don't want to, that's all! ― said Buzzy, stomping her little legs loudly and buzzing.

This went on day after day. But one day Buzzy noticed that all the little bumblebees from her kindergarten were coming home energetic and happily flying over the colorful autumn forest.

Why is everyone flying so happily to their nests in the evening? Why is it so hard for me to flap my wings? ― Buzzy asked her mom.

Did you sleep during the day today? ― her mom asked.

No, ― answered Buzzy.

And yesterday?

No either! I just lie there with my eyes open and count the daisies I can see through the window.

And like this every day? ― mom was surprised.

Yes, every day.

But the other little bumblebees who rest with you at kindergarten count not only daisies, but also bluebells, and dandelions, and …

Mom didn't finish because Buzzy started buzzing with curiosity.

Where? In which window can I see all these flowers?

To see all these flowers, you don't need to look out the window. You just need to close your eyes and think about them!

That's all?

That's all, ― answered mom.

From the very next morning, Buzzy really wanted to see all those flowers that mom had told her about. When the little bumblebees lay down to sleep during the day, she closed her eyes tight… And she saw daisies, and bluebells, and dandelions, and buttercups, and ….

After all, anything is possible in dreams!

When the babies grew a little stronger, they wanted to know what interesting things were around them? One day their mothers went out to find food, and the babies decided to explore.

The little dinosaur climbed out of his home. At first, he was afraid to go far, but then he heard the singing of birds, calmed down, and bravely walked forward.

Everything around him made him happy, until he realized he was lost. The little dinosaur became scared and wanted to cry, but he thought: "I can't cry, I'm so big. What if someone sees or hears me - they'll laugh at me."

He sat down next to a large fern and began to think about what to do next.

The little platypus was also enjoying the nature of the jungle, but after a while realized he couldn't find the way back to his nest. He stopped under a tall fern and cried.

Mama, mama, where are you? I want to go home!

The little dinosaur looked around and saw a strange creature. He decided to approach it.

Who are you? Why are you crying? - he asked.

I'm the Little Platypus. I hatched from an egg not long ago. I decided to take a walk and got lost, - the Little Platypus sobbed, - and who are you?

I'm the Little Dinosaur. I also hatched recently and also got lost, - answered the Little Dinosaur. - Well, why are you crying so loudly? There's no one here but me. You need to calm down.

How can I not cry! I lost my home and my mama! I'm so small, I'm afraid of everything! - and the Little Platypus squeaked even louder.

Let me give you a ride on my back. I'm so tall. Maybe you'll see your home, - decided the Little Dinosaur to calm the scaredy-cat.

The Little Platypus, without thinking twice, climbed up the dinosaur's tail onto his back and settled in comfortably. The babies walked through the jungle for a long time. They admired the flowers, vines, and bird songs. Suddenly the Little Platypus squeaked with joy.

Home, my home! I see it, there it is, ahead!

The Little Dinosaur quickened his pace, but thought to himself: "It's a shame his home is already found. It was so nice for us to walk together and not scary at all."

When the restless ones got closer, they were very surprised by what they saw: their mothers were sitting together!

Where have you two gone, you rascals? Where should we look for you? Did the crocodiles eat you? - the mothers lamented.

No, no! - cried the babies. - The crocodiles didn't eat us. We're here!

The mothers hugged their babies, scolded them a little, but were very happy.

Where were you?

We were just walking, getting to know the jungle, - said the Little Platypus bravely, completely forgetting his fears, - but we won't go there alone anymore. We give you our word!

It turned out that the Little Dinosaur and the Little Platypus lived next door to each other. When it was time to go home, the Little Platypus said to the Little Dinosaur: "Let's be friends! You're very brave! You're a real friend!"

The Little Dinosaur was very pleased to hear such words, and he decided that he would never be afraid again and would always help the small ones. After all, he was brave!

After this walk, the babies became very close friends. They often played together, but never went far again, so as not to upset their mothers.

In the center of the island stood a small mountain with a cave that young animals were strictly forbidden to enter. Everyone in the jungle knew: whoever went there would never return.

The little dinosaur became very curious about what was in this cave that made it impossible to even take a peek. He firmly decided to find out everything for himself.

One day the young animals were playing hide-and-seek. The hiding places were long known, so the game was no longer interesting. When everyone hid behind the trees once again, the little dinosaur decided to hide in that very cave...

The little one was seized by incredible curiosity: everything around was so mysterious! The deeper he went, the more interesting it became. It turned out that the cave was also full of life! Various bugs, spiders, and even bats lived there. While examining the ceiling, the dinosaur stumbled and fell somewhere down.

When he came to his senses from fear and opened his eyes, he was very surprised. He found himself on a beautiful, fairy-tale-like meadow, surrounded by trees unlike those that grew in the jungle. There were many red berries in the grass, which some unfamiliar creatures were collecting.

Vanya and Masha—cousins—were picking strawberries. They laughed loudly, telling each other interesting stories.

Masha was the first to see the dinosaur.

Vanya! Vanya! Who is that? ―she pointed toward the animal. ―A dinosaur?

What are you talking about, Masha! What dinosaurs? We read about them. Dinosaurs went extinct long ago, ―Vanya answered without taking his eyes off the berries.

If they went extinct, then who is standing by the birch tree? ―Masha said with surprise.

Vanya reluctantly shifted his gaze from the berries to the birch tree and froze.

Masha, hide in the grass, ―he whispered commandingly, ―let's observe it!

The curious little dinosaur approached the frightened children. His little face shone with a friendly smile. The kids looked with interest at the unusual animal and even petted it: he looked so kind.

Masha, imagine: we'll come back to school after vacation and tell everyone about the dinosaur. No one will believe us! ―Vanya said with a laugh.

Oh, what a shame we didn't bring a camera, we'd have proof, ―Masha sighed.

The children were very much liked by the dinosaur. They fed him strawberries and gave him a drink of spring water from a flask. He had never tasted such delicious berries before.

The children began to play with the dinosaur. He gave them rides on his back, and his long tail turned into a slide. It was fun and joyful! But soon fatigue came.

Vanya and Masha decided to sit in the forest shade and have a snack with the pies that grandmother had baked in the morning. It was fresh and pleasant in the forest, and birds chirped cheerfully.

Little dinosaur, do you like pies? ―Masha asked, preparing to treat her new acquaintance. And Vanya began to tell him about birds: who sings and how.

Through his sleep, Vanya heard his grandmother's voice.

Grandchildren, it's time to wake up! The sun will soon be high, we need to go pick berries while it's still cool.

Vanya sat up in bed, rubbing his eyes. Masha sat across from him on the couch, braiding her hair. On the nightstand lay a book about dinosaurs that they had been reading in turns before sleep.

Good morning, Masha, ―said Vanya. ―I dreamed about a dinosaur, can you imagine?

Good morning, Vanechka! ―Masha replied. ―Strange. I dreamed about a dinosaur too.

The children laughed together.

You rascals, breakfast is on the table! ―said grandmother. ―The pies are getting cold. Time to go to the forest, or it will be hot later.

The children quickly made their beds and ran to wash up. Then they had breakfast on the veranda with delicious warm pies and fresh milk. They took baskets for berries and went out of the cottage with their grandmother.

Mash, our dream came true: we're going for berries, we have pies in our pockets. If only we could meet our little dinosaur! ―Vanya said to his sister as they walked past the edge of the village.

Vanya, do you think the little dinosaur likes pies?

Masha and Vanya walked behind their grandmother and laughed merrily.

The girl sat on the edge of her bed, looked over the gifts and said with a sigh: "How much I wish for a little cat, I would call her Tasya".

At that moment Dasha's grandmother was closing the door to her bedroom and accidentally heard her cherished wish. In the morning, while her granddaughter was still sleeping, she went to her neighbor.

The neighbor's cat had recently given birth to kittens. The woman listened to the grandmother's request and with great joy gave the birthday girl the most beautiful little cat.

As soon as little Dasha woke up, she immediately noticed a new box standing in the corner.

What's this? This box wasn't here yesterday, — with these words the girl hurried to open it. Dasha's joy knew no bounds when a small red kitten with white paws and striped sides poked its head out of the box.

Tasya! Tasya! How wonderful that you are mine now! — exclaimed Dasha and, with the kitten in her arms, ran out of the room to share her joy with her family.

Several months passed. Dasha and Tasya became such good friends that they were inseparable. The kitten grew quickly. She could already jump onto the windowsill by herself to warm up in the sun and look out the window. The older Tasya became, the more her interest in everything around her grew.

One day, while her granddaughter was at kindergarten, the grandmother decided to bake pies. She turned on the oven and, to keep the kitchen cooler, opened the window slightly.

It's boring without Dasha, I need to pass the time somehow, — thought Tasya and jumped onto the windowsill to look out the window.

The smell of fresh air from the open window beckoned Tasya outside. The kitten couldn't resist, cleverly squeezed through the crack and jumped to the ground. But it turned out that no one was waiting for her there... Although at first she was surrounded by sparrows, who just a second ago had been doing something in the grass.

Chirp-chirp! What kind of wonder is this! — asked the youngest sparrow bravely, — You almost fell right on our heads! Who are you?

Meow, I'm a cat, my name is Tasya. I live over there, — and she nodded toward her window.

Chirp-chirp! Brothers, this is a c-c-cat, — cried the brave one, stuttering slightly. — Let's fly away from here while we're still in one piece!

And the flock of sparrows flew off in all directions, as if they had never been there.

Well, I wanted to play with them, but they all flew away, — sighed Tasya in frustration.

And the kitten went to look for someone to play with. She walked a few steps and met a butterfly. The butterfly was sitting calmly on a flower and drinking sweet nectar.

Meow, butterfly, let's play tag! — Tasya said to her. — I'll chase you and you fly away. It will be fun for us!

The butterfly was not pleased with the cat's proposal to play. She quickly fluttered off the flower and flew away.

Well, another failure, — Tasya was upset and decided to lie down in the shade on the grass. She had just lain down when she heard some rustling. The kitten looked closely and saw a mouse crawling out of its hole.

Meow! — Tasya was delighted, — now I'll definitely play with her! She must be bored sitting alone in her hole, just like I'm bored without Dasha.

Tasya quickly ran toward the mouse, but the mouse quickly scurried away. The mouse sat in her hole, trembling with fear.

She hears Tasya calling her to play tag, but thinks to herself: "How cunning this cat is, she wants to trick me and eat me. No way! Mom said mice should stay far away from cats".

Tasya sat by the hole for a while longer, but the mouse never came out.

The kitten didn't find anyone to play tag with and returned home in a bad mood. She climbed through the slightly open window, lay down on the windowsill and thought: "What a good friend my Dasha is: she feeds me, plays with me, and pets me. I'm so lucky to have her. I couldn't find a better friend! Meow, little Dasha! Come back from kindergarten soon. I miss you so much".

Squirrel, you dropped a mushroom right on my spines, — the Hedgehog called out to her.

Never mind, I have plenty of them. Let it be a gift for you!

A gift? Don't you mind parting with it?

No, — answered the Squirrel, — I've gathered so many.

Does that mean we're friends now? Only friends give gifts, — said the Hedgehog.

Friends, friends! — laughed the Squirrel. — You come visit me later, but right now I'm busy tidying up. We'll play tag together!

Thank you, Squirrel! I'll definitely come visit! — the young Hedgehog rejoiced and ran on.

She came to the edge of the forest. From there she could see a wooden cottage — quite nearby. And next to the cottage was a barn, near which colorful hens were walking. The young Hedgehog became curious about what these beautiful birds were doing. Besides, she remembered that her mother had told her about a very tasty treat — chicken eggs.

Hello, hens! — the Hedgehog called out loudly. — I've come to visit you. I want to be friends with you!

Who, who, who are you? — the hens clucked. — We don't know you.

I'm a Hedgehog. I was walking through the forest and decided to stop by to see you. Let's be friends!

Why should we be friends with you? There are plenty of us already, we don't need more friends.

The Hedgehog was very surprised by the hens' clucking and quietly said: "But I brought you a gift: I have a large mushroom on my back. It's very tasty and healthy".

Alright, — one young Hen took pity on her. — I'll be your friend.

The Hedgehog was delighted and gave her the mushroom. The Hen began to peck at the mushroom and say: "Cluck-cluck! What a delicious mushroom my new friend brought me!".

Suddenly a little puppy ran out of the cottage and rushed at the hens with loud barking. The hens scattered in all directions, and the puppy began to chase the most speckled little Hen.

Woof-woof! I'll catch you now and bite! Woof-woof! I'll pull out the feathers from your tail! — yapped the little dog.

The Hen ran past the Hedgehog with loud clucking.

Cluckkk-cluckkk! Help! Help! — she called for help.

The Hedgehog curled up into a ball, spread out her sharp spines, and rolled toward the puppy. The puppy's nose touched the spines and he got pricked. He stopped abruptly, whimpered, rubbed his nose with his paw, and ran away.

The hens gathered together and began to thank the Hedgehog.

You're wonderful! You saved us from the puppy! He would have plucked all our feathers... He chased us for a long time yesterday. We'll be friends with you. Come visit us every day!

I suggest we thank our friend and give her an egg, — suggested the speckled Hen.

Do you like eggs? — asked the large colorful Rooster.

I've never tried them, but my mother said they're delicious, — answered the Hedgehog.

Here's a gift from us! — said the oldest Hen and gave the guest an egg.

Thank you, friends! You enjoy the mushroom too! But I need to head home now.

Come visit us tomorrow! — the Hens clucked loudly.

Goodbye! — called the Hedgehog and ran off to enjoy her egg, scurrying along quickly on her little paws.

The trees sparkled with winter magic: branches covered in frost glittered in the sun so brightly that the light made you want to squint your eyes.

The forest had a special atmosphere. It felt as though something good and very important was about to happen. Mishutka sensed this, but couldn't understand what it was.

He hopped toward the hedgehog's house, but suddenly heard cheerful laughter nearby. Mishutka stopped and looked around. On a clearing under an old bent spruce sat the cheerful Hare. His snow-white fluffy coat shimmered in the sun. He lazily scratched behind his ear and, looking at Mishutka, chuckled mischievously.

Why are you laughing? ― Mishutka mumbled offendedly, settling onto his hind legs.

I'm laughing at you, Mishutka. Where are you rushing off to? You might miss the New Year!

What New Year? ― Mishutka asked in surprise, his black bead-like eyes widening. ― And why is it new? Where's the old one?

Remember, Mishutka, how you, me, and the hedgehog went mushroom picking last summer? ― asked the Hare, putting on an important air and rising slightly on his tiptoes.

Yes, I remember.

And we wanted to taste fresh honey from the bees, and they stung us so much that our noses swelled and hurt for a week ― you remember that?

How could I forget that, ― grumbled Mishutka, rubbing his nose.

And remember how we jumped in puddles after the rain, and then all dried off together in the sun?

I remember.

Well, all of that happened in the old year. And we're sitting here talking right now in the old year too.

So when will the New Year come? Do we have to call it? ― Mishutka worried.

No, ― answered the young Hare, ― it will come on its own. Tonight...

Ooo, but how will we know it's come?

The little Hare thought for a moment, scratched behind his ear again, and put on an important expression once more.

Mishutka, tell me, what do you dream about?

I would very much like to see my mother again, ― Mishutka said with a happy smile, but then added sadly, ― I miss her so much...

And what else? ― the Hare persisted. ― What else do you dream about?

I want to have lots of honey and raspberry jam in my den, ― and Mishutka even smacked his lips loudly, imagining his dream.

Good! ― continued the Hare, ― But what else, what else do you dream about?

Yes, I want us to never quarrel with my best friend Pyf over trifles. It always upsets me so much, ― complained the little bear, and his eyes became sad again.

Well then, ― concluded the Hare, ― those dreams of yours are the New Year!

All the rest of the day Mishutka thought about what the Hare had told him. Could it really be that simple: you wish for something, and it comes true? How does that work?

It was getting dark. The first stars appeared in the sky, and the little bear hurried back to the clearing where he had met the Hare that day. Inside, he felt a strange sensation, as if something very unexpected and joyful was about to happen.

The Hare was already waiting for him. But not empty-pawed. He had brought hot fragrant black currant tea in a thermos and cups, set it all on a stump, and settled down comfortably, looking up at the sky.

Hare! Hare! Has it started already? ― gasped Mishutka breathlessly, plopping into a snowdrift next to the Hare and breathing heavily.

Shh, almost. Very soon the New Year will come, and all our dreams will start to come true little by little, ― whispered the Hare with a smile. Then he took a cup of fragrant hot tea, slowly inhaled its aroma, closed his eyes in pleasure, and carefully took a sip.

And Mishutka couldn't wait to see the New Year: "What is it like, how does it make wishes come true?".

The little bear silently watched the sky. Stars were scattered across it like beads. Some sparkled brighter, some dimmed, and then began to shine with even greater force.

And then, through the silence of the winter forest, he heard familiar footsteps. The excited bear suddenly turned in that direction. And he saw in the distance... his mother, the she-bear! She was bounding toward Mishutka in huge quick leaps, though she was limping heavily on one paw. From joy, little Mishutka's heart beat so fast that it seemed it would burst from his chest.

Mama! ― roared Mishutka so loudly that the Hare sitting nearby jumped and dropped his cup of tea.

And the she-bear was already right there. She held her son tightly in her huge furry paws. Then she sighed with relief, smiled, and looked at him with the same tenderness and affection as she usually did before bedtime, tucking him under her side and covering him with her big warm paw. The little bear felt at ease and calm. He immediately felt safe. After all, his mama was with him again.

The she-bear was also incredibly happy. Her greatest dream had come true: she saw her little rascal again. Months ago, she had been caught in a trap and badly injured her paw. Hunters took her to them, treated her, and left her to live in an enclosure at a zoo corner in a children's park.

There were other animals there that children and their parents came to see. But the she-bear missed her little cub terribly. Because of this, she ate poorly, slept little, and often growled sadly and mournfully. The park owner understood that the she-bear wouldn't adjust, and asked the hunters to return her to the wild.

Friends, has the New Year started already? ― cried Pyf in alarm, who had just run to the clearing with a large jar of raspberry jam. ― I was in such a hurry, but it looks like I'm late again!

You're not late, you're not late! Sit down here! ― reassured him the Hare.

The hedgehog scurried over on his little legs and sat down next to Mishutka.

I'm so glad you came, ― murmured the little bear affectionately and moved closer to his friend.

Then they all fell silent. And quietly began to watch the magical starry sky. The forest too had grown still, with only the occasional crack of branches from the frost.

Mishutka, overflowing with happiness and joy to the tips of his ears, looking into the distance, whispered softly:

So that's what you're like, New Year!

Young Hedgehog woke up in her soft, warm burrow lined with moss after winter hibernation. She had prepared thoroughly for winter, just as her mother taught her: she had gathered plenty of moss, built up fat reserves under her skin, and stored food for the long winter months. So her sleep had been very sweet.

Hedgehog stretched, yawned, opened her eyes wide, and thought: "It's warm in my burrow, but spring has arrived. It's time to come out into the light and see what's happening in the forest."

And the forest was wonderful. Warm rays enveloped and warmed the earth. Snowdrops bloomed everywhere. Trees stood with swollen buds: green leaves were about to appear.

Young Hedgehog breathed in the fresh spring air, fluffed up the spines on her coat, and looked around. What could she have for lunch? Suddenly an earthworm crawled out from under the ground. Hedgehog grabbed it... and ate it.

How long it's been since I've enjoyed such delicacies, she thought.

While she was admiring the early flowers, a young Hedgehog approached her.

Hello, Hedgehog! How are you? Did you just wake up? I've been walking around here for two days already, looking for friends. Let's be friends!

Hello, answered Hedgehog shyly. I just came out of the ground and don't know anyone.

Our burrows are next to each other, so we're neighbors. And neighbors can certainly become friends! I've already met Mole. He lives with his mother and sisters very close by. We have a lot in common: we love earthworms and spend all winter underground. Only moles don't sleep, they walk through their underground tunnels, while we sleep in soft burrows. In spring, Mole peeks out from underground and sits in one place because the sun rays blind him. But we come to the surface and warm ourselves in the sun, walk through the forest, and make new friends.

But what are friends and friendship? asked Hedgehog.

I heard old Owl say that a friend is someone who is always nearby. Friends go together to pick mushrooms and berries, search for food. And friendship is when there are many friends and everyone helps each other.

How do they help? wondered Hedgehog.

For example, if an Eagle Owl, an Eagle, or another predatory bird attacks us. Or maybe it's a Fox or a Wolf. And we together fight back against the enemy—we help each other. We curl up into balls and stick out our spines. The enemy gets pricked, gets scared, and runs away. Or, for example, if you're building a burrow, I help you insulate it. And then you help me. Understand?

Just as Hedgehog said this, a dark shadow of a large bird's wing covered the friends.

Quick, hide in your burrow! Danger! Enemy! he shouted loudly.

Young Hedgehog was so frightened that she immediately tumbled to the bottom of her burrow.

What was that? After my long sleep I forgot all our enemies. What a good neighbor I have—he warned me in time. Now I'll be more careful! she thought, lying on the soft moss.

After some time, Hedgehog decided to peek out of her burrow.

Why did you stay home so long? Were you very scared? asked Hedgehog. He was waiting for his neighbor to appear.

Yes, I was scared.

Will you be my friend? It's more fun and safer together.

Yes, you live right next to me.

Come on, I'll introduce you to Mole, and Hedgehog led young Hedgehog down a forest path.

Look how beautiful it is around here! Hedgehog admired the spring forest.

Most importantly, don't lose your vigilance, the enemy might appear again, warned Hedgehog.

Look, a May beetle flew by! I wish I could catch it and eat it, said Hedgehog dreamily.

Coming to Mole's burrow, Hedgehog shouted loudly: "Mole, we've come to see you! We're your friends!". After a few minutes, a head appeared from the burrow, and then Mole himself.

Hello! And who is this with you, Hedgehog?

This is my neighbor Hedgehog. Will you be her friend?

I can't see her well, but I can smell her. Of course, I'll be her friend. When there are many friends, that's good. Come closer, Hedgehog, I'll treat you, and Mole gave her fresh green grass.

Thank you very much! But I didn't bring a gift, said Hedgehog sadly.

But I did, said Hedgehog and gave Mole an earthworm.

Thank you, Hedgehog!

You're welcome, I did it from the heart... for our friendship.

Let's lie in the sun and warm our bellies! suggested Mole.

The three friends lay down on the warm green grass on their backs, and the spring sun rays began to warm them.

Hedgehog! Come out! Wake up! Come play with us and do exercises! ― cried the sister Squirrels at their friend's burrow.

I just opened my eyes, ― answered the sleepy Hedgehog, appearing from underground.

Stop sleeping! Friends have come to you and are calling you to warm up! ― the sisters answered in unison.

What game will we play?

Tag. We'll only run on the ground.

Okay, ― answered the Hedgehog, stretching.

And after that let's do physical exercises, ― suggested the squirrels.

How do you do that? ― the Hedgehog didn't understand.

Well, paws up and down, paws to the side, turn your head back and forth, ― and the older Squirrel began to demonstrate the exercises. ― Every morning you need to start with washing, brushing your teeth, and exercising. You'll be healthy, brave, and strong. Let's do exercises!

Two Squirrels and the Hedgehog began to play tag at the forest edge, joke and laugh.

Caw! Caw! ― cawed the Raven, settling on a spruce branch. ― What are you doing making such a fuss in the early morning? Noise and commotion!

We're doing morning exercises, ― the friends answered her.

Can I join you? ― asked the Raven and descended to the ground.

Of course! Join us!

What should I do?

Spread your wings and raise them slowly up, then lower them down, ― commanded the Squirrel.

The Raven began to do the exercises. At that moment, a young Hare ran by.

What are you laughing about? You can be heard from far away! ― he asked.

We're doing morning exercises, ― answered the Hedgehog. ― The Raven has even joined us.

Can I join you too? ― asked the Hare.

Yes, ― the friends answered in unison.

What should I do… ― The Hare fell silent mid-sentence. He froze in place, widened his eyes, dropped his ears, and stared at one point.

Everyone looked where he was looking and saw a snake.

A viper! ― cawed the Raven loudly and flew to a branch. The squirrels immediately climbed a tree. And the Hedgehog curled into a spiky ball and rolled toward the snake.

The viper hissed, crawled toward the ball, raised its head, and stuck out its long thin tongue.

Watch out! The viper will bite! It will poison! ― cawed the Raven loudly.

And the Hare couldn't move from his spot, but trembled like an aspen leaf. The viper rushed at the Hedgehog, but pricked itself on the sharp spines. The snake lowered its head to the grass, and at that moment the Hedgehog grabbed it by the tail and ate it.

The Raven was so surprised that she even stopped cawing. What a fight! Unusual!

How did you manage that? ― asked the Hare of the Hedgehog, stopping trembling and raising his ears up.

We hedgehogs are not afraid of poisonous snakes. Their poison doesn't harm us. But they are very tasty. I ate so much that now I don't need food for today or tomorrow, ― answered the Hedgehog cheerfully.

Caw! Caw! The Hedgehog ate the snake! Caw! Caw! The Hedgehog saved us! ― cried the Raven, flying over the forest.

The Squirrels came down from the tree and suggested continuing to play tag.

We agree! ― answered the Hare and Hedgehog joyfully.

Underground they had a home ― a burrow, and also a pantry and tunnels ― underground passages through which from the burrow one could venture in all directions.

Mama Mole twitched her nose and thought: "Spring! A whole year has passed. Soon summer will come, and we will start going to the surface, enjoying fresh air and sun rays. I'll show the little ones how interesting it is there! And then autumn comes and winter again: cold, snow. We'll go deep underground again and sit in our soft burrow, lined with moss and grass".

Today marks thirty days since your birth, ― Mother Mole addressed her five little children. ― It's time to show you the way up, to the earth. We'll dig a tunnel there. We'll breathe in fresh spring air, feel the spring. We'll try some fresh vitamin-rich grass. And our supply of worms is running out.

But what is spring? ― asked one little one.

Spring is when it's warm, and the sun's rays heat the earth and everything around it, including us ― moles. In spring, nature awakens, and various insects come out of hibernation: worms, beetles, ants. That's our food. Green grass appears ― also a wonderful treat, ― explained mama. ― Well, enough talking. Get to work! We'll dig a tunnel in this direction. Dig, don't be lazy!

The whole family worked together, making their way closer and closer to the spring sun.

In a little while, you, children, will leave your home, ― continued Mother Mole. ― You'll go your own way and build new tunnels and burrows. So learn how to do it!

Mama, the earth is cold, ― complained the little daughter.

Never mind. Soon the sun will warm it, and it will become warm.

But what is the sun?

Although I see poorly, ― answered Mother Mole, ― I could make out: it's big, round, and warm long rays come from it.

But what are rays? ― asked another little one.

We'll go to the surface, and then you'll understand what they are.

Finally, the mole family poked their little heads out from under the earth.

How warm it is! How it smells so unusual! ― exclaimed the daughter. ― Mama, tell us a fairy tale about how Thumbelina almost married our Uncle Mole and how a bird stole her.

I've told you that a hundred times.

Oh, tell it again, ― the children asked in unison.

Alright, I'll tell it. Lie down on the earth and turn your bellies up. Let the sun warm you, and I'll tell you the fairy tale.

And Mother Mole spoke softly: "When Uncle Mole was visiting Aunt Fieldmouse ― a field mouse ― he saw a little girl. Not quite. He didn't see her, but heard her. He was blind, you see. She sang a cheerful song loudly and beautifully. Uncle Mole liked it very much, and he began visiting Fieldmouse every week.

Uncle had never been married and had no children. He wanted to take the little songstress as his wife.

Marry me, Thumbelina. I'll give you a fur coat just like mine. It's been lying in a chest for many years. It seems to be waiting for you. Although I'm blind and can't see you, Aunt told me how thin and pretty you are. I hear your voice, it's so clear. We'll live together. Fieldmouse says you eat little ― only half a grain of wheat. So my supplies will last us a long time. You'll tell me fairy tales, sing songs, and keep house. I'll feed you. Do you agree to be my wife?

She agrees, ― answered Fieldmouse. ― Only she'll prepare a dowry: she'll sew a white dress.

And now I invite you to visit, I'll show you my home.

Thumbelina said nothing and silently followed the mouse.

They walked through an underground tunnel, and came to visit the mole. The girl liked Uncle's home very much. He had a big house, chests full of furs, and storerooms full of food. Thumbelina began sewing herself a dress and preparing for the wedding.

She sewed all day long, and in the evening she would come out of the mouse's burrow to look at the sun and sky.

The wedding day arrived. Uncle came with his friends to fetch the bride and brought many gifts. Aunt said that Thumbelina was very beautiful: in a long white dress and a fluffy white veil.

Before the wedding, the bride wanted to look at the sun and breathe fresh air. After all, she would have to live in an underground house all winter.

Thumbelina went up, all so beautiful, and began to sing a cheerful song. Suddenly a little bird flew by, grabbed her, and carried her far, far away, and only Aunt Fieldmouse saw her go. After that, Uncle Mole never married and lived out his life alone".

But why didn't he find another bride? ― asked the son.

Many moles don't want to marry and live as hermits, ― answered Mother Mole and spread her paws. ― We've warmed ourselves in the sun, and now it's time for lunch. Look, earthworms have crawled out, grab them quickly before they hide!

The little moles had lunch and got ready to go home. One after another, they slowly crawled back to their burrow.

Have you seen it? Is it beautiful? ― asked a young Woodpecker.

No, I haven't seen it. I only heard sparrows in the city park bathing in a puddle and chirping merrily.

I wonder what SPRING is like? ― the Magpie perked up. ― Who has seen it?

Silly Magpie! You've seen it, and I've seen it, ― grumbled Aunt Owl, peering out from the hollow of an old oak tree. ― And you all have already seen it too.

Where is it? ― the Woodpecker and Magpie, perched on a linden branch, asked in unison.

There it is!

Where? ― the birds turned their heads.

Look! The snow drifts have turned gray, the snow is melting and flowing in streams across the forest clearings. On a low hill, green grass and the first flowers ― snowdrops ― are breaking through the snow. The sun is shining brighter and warming the earth. The frosts are gone, no more snowfalls and icy winds. Soon the birds will return from warm lands to our forests. The trees will have swollen buds and little green leaves will appear. All of this is spring! ― explained old Aunt Owl.

Are there forests where there is no winter, snow, or frost? ― asked the young Woodpecker.

Yes, there are such forests! Far, far away in the south, where it is always warm and the sun shines, ― answered the wise Owl. ― There are many birds that fear the cold. In the south they winter, and in spring they return home. And so every year.

And they want to fly back and forth? That must be so far? ― another Crow asked Owl ― a friend of the one who was spreading the spring news.

If they don't fly away, they will freeze from the cold and hunger. Soon the rooks, starlings, larks, and swallows will return. Soon we will hear the morning song of the Lark. Now do you understand what Spring is? ― asked Aunt Owl.

Yes! ― the birds cried out in unison.

Spring! Spring has arrived! ― joyful chirping echoed through the forest.

Oh my! I also had ducklings born recently, ― quacked the gray duck. ― I did not boast like that and did not shout throughout the poultry house.

Be quiet there. You will scare my goslings. They are only planning to come out of their eggs tomorrow, ― hissed the white goose, turning over gray speckled eggs with her beak.

I will come over and peck you, old hen, ― said the displeased turkey. ― My children are so timid and delicate, they are afraid of every sound. They might die from fear.

I have more children than anyone! ― continued Ryaba boasting. ― Soon our mistress will come and feed us delicious food!

The hen gathered her chicks and led them outside to show them the bright sun, blue sky, and warm earth. Digging in the earth and finding an earthworm was her favorite activity.

Not far away, the already grown turkey chicks with their mother and stern father were nibbling green grass. The turkey parents watched their offspring carefully and talked to each other.

Cluck-cluck! Everyone here, little chicks! ― clucked the hen. ― I found an earthworm for you!

The chicks began to dig in the earth with their mother. At that time, the duck came out of the barn with her ducklings and headed toward the pond nearby. The ducklings walked in a line behind the gray Duck, waddling from foot to foot. Little Chick also followed the duck's company. She walked last. Ryaba was so busy with the worm that she did not notice the loss.

The ducklings entered the pond and slowly swam after their mother. Chick walked behind them deeper and deeper, but she could not manage to swim.

The Duck looked back and saw that the little chick had gone into the water... was about to drown!

Quack-quack! Help! A chick in the water! ― she quacked loudly and rushed to help the baby. She grabbed Chick by the wing with her beak and threw her onto her back.

Hold on tight! I will take you to the shore!

The duck swam, and Chick sat and looked around.

How beautiful it is on the pond! And I am like a queen on a ship! ― rejoiced the little mischief-maker.

Meanwhile, Ryaba finally noticed that one chick was missing.

Where is my chick, my little yellow ball? Where did he go? Maybe someone saw my Chick? ― the hen began to cluck loudly.

The turkey family responded to her cry.

You are careless, careless mother Ryaba, you did not watch the chick!

A small puppy sitting in a doghouse on a chain heard the birds making a fuss and barked loudly: "Woof-woof! Woof-woof!". Such a commotion arose that the mistress came out of the house. She looks: hen Ryaba is running and clucking loudly.

What happened? ― the woman thought. And suddenly she saw: an old Duck is coming, and behind her a little yellow chick is toddling. The Duck is leading him to the poultry yard, and the ducklings are swimming in the pond themselves.

What a good job you did, bringing the chick home. He probably followed your family, and the hen did not see. The little one wanted to swim, ― the mistress smiled.

Ryaba ran up to the gray Duck and began to thank her neighbor: "Thank you for finding my Chick! Now I will watch my children more carefully!".

We are all mothers and should help each other, ― answered the Duck.

One day the rabbit was waiting for his friends again and finally saw a hedgehog in the distance.

Hedgehog, why are you so late? — he asked.

I don't like to rush, — answered the hedgehog, — I need to wash up, have breakfast, brush my teeth. Only then do I go for a walk.

Oh, that's so boring! — said the rabbit. — I don't like wasting time. Why wash up and brush your teeth? It's better to get to the clearing earlier.

That's not right, — objected the hedgehog, — your teeth might get sick that way. Ask anyone!

By this time, their friends had already gathered in the clearing.

Squirrel, do you brush your teeth? — asked the rabbit.

Of course! I need strong teeth to crack nuts! — answered the squirrel.

How boring you all are, — said the rabbit, — let's play instead!

They ran around the clearing, jumped over streams, and picked beautiful flowers. When it was time for lunch, all the friends ran home.

How great that I have a handful of candies in my pocket! — said the rabbit. — I don't need to go home for lunch, I can just eat these.

You eat too much candy! Your teeth will definitely get sick, — the Hedgehog told him.

Nonsense! I have good strong teeth. Look!

The rabbit picked an apple from a branch and bit into it.

Ouch! My teeth! It hurts so much! — he suddenly cried out and started to cry.

The hedgehog sighed sympathetically.

I warned you. Now you need to go to Aunt Owl. She's a doctor. She'll help.

Aunt Owl quickly healed the rabbit's teeth.

You must remember that you need to brush your teeth every day, — she said, — and eat less candy and rinse your mouth. Otherwise your teeth will always hurt. They might even get offended at you and run away for good!

From that day on, the rabbit took care of his teeth. And they never hurt again.

One day, Bonya and Sonya went to a meadow to have a picnic and play in the fresh air. But when they arrived, they were very frightened and surprised: trash was scattered everywhere! Candy wrappers, juice and chip packages, plastic bottles and cups, tin cans, food scraps and pieces of paper covered the entire ground. Their mood immediately disappeared from all this dirt. Even the bright spring sun no longer brought joy...

This is absolutely outrageous! ― exclaimed Sonya.

The two of us can't handle such a mountain of trash! ― Bonya said sadly.

Sonya and Bonya decided to call the forest animals for help. They went to the wolf.

Wolf, we need your help! Our beautiful green meadow is very dirty, and it needs to be cleaned up and cleared of trash!

I was chasing rabbits and I'm very tired, ― said the wolf, ― and besides, the meadow is of no use to me.

Then Bonya and Sonya went to the bear.

Grandfather Bear, our meadow is filled with trash, we urgently need to put it in order!

Oh, I'm already too old for this, ― answered the bear.

The cat and the little fox decided to go to the rabbits.

Dear Mrs. Rabbit! Your children love to play on the forest meadow! Help us clean it up from trash!

Dear girls, I would be happy to help you, but I have a large family and many household chores, ― said the rabbit and hopped away to her burrow.

Sonya and Bonya wandered through the forest for a long time hoping for help from the forest dwellers. But everyone was either busy or simply didn't want to get dirty. Bonya sat down on a stump and cried bitterly.

How can we handle such a mountain of trash? This was our favorite meadow! We loved to play there on the grass, pick flowers, look for the first mushrooms after the rain... And now all this beauty will be destroyed! Trash decomposes and kills all living things!

Suddenly, a little squirrel came scampering up.

Hello! I happened to hear that you want to clean up the trash on the meadow! I know how to help you: on the edge of the forest lives the Old Forest Keeper, he is a wizard! He always finds a way out of difficult situations!

Thank you, little squirrel! ― the girls thanked her and set off to find the Old Forest Keeper.

They walked for a long time ― through a pine forest, around a field of daisies ― and finally saw by the river a little old man in a green coat, a red cap, and yellow mittens.

Hello, Grandfather! ― Sonya and Bonya greeted him.

Hello, girls! ― answered the old man.

They say you can help in any trouble?

I can, ― answered the Forest Keeper sadly, ― but in return you will help me!

The old man told them that this was his beloved river, but now it had become very dirty because of the trash that people scatter. And he desperately needed the help of noble girls to make the forest and river clean. Of course, Sonya and Bonya agreed, because this river flows near their beloved meadow. Very soon all the trash would be carried to them by the current.

I will give you magical containers. With their help, you will be able to collect trash and sort it for disposal and proper recycling.

The Old Forest Keeper struck his magical staff on the ground, and four containers appeared on the riverbank: for plastic, for glass, for paper, and for household waste.

Thank you very much, Old Forest Keeper! You helped us so much! ― said the girls and got to work.

Sonya and Bonya collected trash for a long time, sorting it into the right containers. They cleaned day and night until the river, and then the meadow, were completely cleared.

When the work was finished, all the forest animals came running to celebrate on the clean green meadow.

So the cat Bonya and the little fox Sonya made the forest clean, and all its inhabitants understood that they must maintain cleanliness and order! And they never again refused to help Sonya and Bonya.