Morris Mouse's First Day at Work

# Morris Mouse's First Day

High up in the hollow of an old oak tree lived Morris Mouse. Today was a very special day. It was Morris's first day of work at the Woodland Bakery.

"Goodness me, I mustn't be late!" squeaked Morris as he buttoned up his tiny blue waistcoat. He packed his lunch—a small chunk of cheese and a blackberry—into his handkerchief.

Morris scurried down the twisted tree trunk. The morning dew still sparkled on the grass. The bakery was on the other side of the meadow, and Morris had practised the journey three times already.

But today, something was different. A big puddle blocked his path!

"Oh dear," whispered Morris, his whiskers twitching nervously. "I can't swim, and I can't be late on my first day!"

Morris looked around. He spotted a large leaf floating nearby.

"Perfect!" he said.

Morris carefully stepped onto the leaf. Using a twig as a paddle, he pushed himself across the puddle. Halfway across, the leaf wobbled.

"Steady now," Morris told himself, balancing carefully.

Finally, he reached the other side, his paws only slightly damp.

When Morris arrived at the Woodland Bakery, Mrs Hedgehog, the baker, smiled.

"Just in time, Morris! Your job is to decorate these acorn cakes with flower petals."

Morris worked all morning, placing tiny petals on each cake. His small paws were perfect for the delicate work.

At lunchtime, Mrs Hedgehog examined his cakes.

"These are beautiful, Morris! You've done a wonderful job."

Morris's chest swelled with pride. He had solved a tricky problem AND done good work on his first day.

That evening, Morris scurried home with a special treat—a honey-dipped acorn cake for his family.

"I can't wait for work tomorrow," thought Morris happily, as the setting sun turned the meadow golden.