PREMIUM PREVIEW: Herman Waits in Line

Summary

Little Stories for Tiny People: PREMIUM PREVIEW – "Herman Waits in Line"

Episode Release Date: December 7, 2024

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Introduction

In the exclusive preview episode of "Little Stories for Tiny People," hosted by Rhea Pechter, listeners are introduced to the charming tale of Herman, a diligent squirrel navigating the bureaucratic challenges of installing a bird feeder in his beloved forest home. This episode, titled "Herman Waits in Line," offers a delightful glimpse into Herman's adventures, highlighting themes of perseverance, community, and the whimsical hurdles of forest life.

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Setting the Scene: Herman's Quest for Peace

The story begins on a serene day in the forest, where Herman, described as a small squirrel "no more than the size of a large chipmunk" (01:53), is diligently finalizing his latest project—a handcrafted bird feeder. After weeks of designing and days of construction, Herman envisions relaxing in his rocking chair, enjoying the delightful company of visiting birds. His meticulous preparation includes stocking up on seeds, ensuring that his feeder will be a hub of avian activity.

Notable Quote:

"After getting a snack. Herman had stocked up on seeds so he'd be ready for." — Logan (01:53)

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The Encounter with Violetta: A Miscommunication

As Herman admires his newly installed bird feeder, his neighbor Violetta approaches. However, an amusing mix-up occurs when Violetta mistakenly refers to Herman as "Hubert" (02:49). Herman hesitates, recalling a previous incident where gently correcting Violetta led to an extended and frivolous conversation.

Notable Quote:

"Hi, Violetta. I didn't see you there. He was about to remind her that his name was Herman, not Hubert, when he remembered what had happened the last time he had gently corrected her about something insignificant." — Rhea (00:53)

Violetta enthusiastically shares her own experience, mentioning that getting approval for bird feeders has become increasingly challenging, referencing a neighbor, Gerard, who was fined 38 acorns for an unapproved feeder (03:14).

Notable Quote:

"I've heard it's gotten quite tricky to get approval for bird feeders. The forest is positively saturated with them, apparently." — Logan (04:02)

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Herman's Dilemma: The Need for Approval

Despite his past experiences, where Herman successfully installed additions to his home without official approval, Violetta's insistence leaves him concerned. Determined to avoid potential fines and the removal of his cherished bird feeder, Herman decides to seek official approval from the Forest Structure Improvement Committee.

Notable Quote:

"Approval, Right. From the Department of Tree Structures and Alterations. Violetta peered at him quizzically. No, up from the Forest Structure Improvement Committee." — Logan (05:02)

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The Phone Call: A Twist of Expectations

Herman attempts to resolve the matter by calling the permits office, anticipating a straightforward conversation. However, the interaction takes an unexpected turn when he speaks with Howie, an assistant who initially confirms Herman's name but soon informs him that bird feeder approvals can no longer be handled over the phone due to past "unfortunate incidents" (07:37).

Notable Quote:

"This call may be recorded for quality assurance purposes. Please refrain from cracking open acorns while this call is in session." — Emmett (06:45)

Notable Quote:

"Bird feeder approvals are no longer provided over the phone. I've had a few unfortunate incidents." — Logan (08:02)

Faced with the necessity to visit the office in person, Herman's plans for a peaceful afternoon are upended, compelling him to navigate the complexities of forest bureaucracy.

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A Peaceful Evening and the Promise of Tomorrow

Undeterred by the unexpected hurdle, Herman takes measures to protect his bird feeder overnight by covering it with a brown tarp, ensuring it remains undisturbed despite the looming approval process (09:15). The following morning, his patience is rewarded as birds begin to enjoy the feeder, reaffirming his love for his forest home.

Notable Quote:

"He did not know that had he told the workers his plans for the day, they would have thought them to be hysterically funny." — Logan (14:57)

During this peaceful moment, his neighbor Milton J. Skunk invites him to lunch, offering a bright spot amidst the bureaucratic chase.

Notable Quote:

"Are you free for lunch today? I've got my new picnic table set up and I'd love to have you over." — Emmett (11:17)

Herman eagerly accepts, envisioning a productive day where he can swiftly handle his permit issues and enjoy quality time with friends.

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The Long Wait: Herman Faces the Reality of Bureaucracy

Herman's organized approach leads him to the permits office early, but upon arrival, he discovers an unexpectedly long line. Initially hopeful that the line he encountered was separate from his needed permits, he soon realizes he's significantly behind, with 237 animals already waiting (13:36).

Notable Quote:

"Herman turned and looked at the line, which seemed to have doubled in length since he'd arrived a minute earlier. A knot settled at the bottom of his stomach." — Logan (13:44)

This realization underscores the often overwhelming nature of administrative processes, even in the tranquil forest setting.

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Conclusion: A Story of Patience and Community

As the episode wraps, Herman's predicament serves as a gentle reminder of the virtues of patience and the importance of community support. While "Herman Waits in Line" concludes on a suspenseful note, promising more developments, it beautifully captures the balance between individual aspirations and the collective rules that govern their shared environment.

Final Note from Rhea:

"There is so much more to this story. You can hear the full episode by becoming a Little Stories Premium subscriber." (15:16)

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to Little Stories Premium to follow Herman's journey to its full conclusion, exploring how he overcomes the challenges posed by the forest's administrative maze.

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Key Takeaways

• Perseverance: Herman's determination to enjoy his bird feeder despite bureaucratic setbacks highlights the importance of persistence.

• Community Dynamics: Interactions with neighbors like Violetta and Milton illustrate the supportive yet sometimes complicated nature of community relationships.

• Humor in Challenges: The whimsical portrayal of forest bureaucracy adds a lighthearted touch to Herman's struggles, making the story both entertaining and relatable for listeners of all ages.

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"Herman Waits in Line" is a testament to the engaging storytelling that "Little Stories for Tiny People" is renowned for, offering both young listeners and their families a heartwarming and humorous adventure to cherish.

Transcript

[Rhea]

Hello, everyone. This is Rhea with a quick note. This is a preview of an episode exclusive to Little Stories Premium. Little Stories Premium gives you more of the stories you love, an ad free listening experience, and access to Little Stories for Sleep, an exclusive bedtime podcast featuring brand new sleepy stories. Perfect for that last track on a bedtime playlist. Subscribe or purchase a gift subscription by visiting littlestoriespremium.com now onto the show.

[Logan]

This is Rhea.

[Rhea]

Welcome to Little Stories for Tiny People. Sometimes I have a character who I.

[Logan]

Really love and I want to bring.

[Rhea]

Back in a new story, but I just don't know how to do it. And then, years later, an idea hits.

[Logan]

Me like a slop bucket to the head.

[Rhea]

That's what happened with this story.

[Logan]

Our dear Herman is back, and he is encountering more red tape.

[Rhea]

It's called Herman Waits in Line.

[Logan]

Let's hear it.

[Rhea]

Take it away, Logan and Emmett.

[Emmett]

Remember, there are no pictures. You have to imagine the pictures in your mind. You can imagine them however you want. Okay, here we go.

[Logan]

It was a beautiful day in the forest. Herman, a small squirrel no more than the size of a large chipmunk, was just finishing up the installation of a bird feeder he'd affixed to the side of his tree. He had spent weeks designing it and several days constructing it. Once it was in place, he'd be able to sit in his little rocking chair and watch the birds. It would be the perfect way to relax after a long day. He could already picture the birds in his mind's eye preening themselves. After getting a snack. Herman had stocked up on seeds so he'd be ready for. Hi, Hubert. Herman stiffened at the sound of his neighbor Violetta over his shoulder.

[Howie]

Ah.

[Logan]

Hi, Violetta. I didn't see you there. He was about to remind her that his name was Herman, not Hubert, when he remembered what had happened the last time he had gently corrected her about something insignificant. You've been here for how many years? Four. Actually, five.

[Howie]

Oh.

[Logan]

Oh, I'm so embarrassed. I can't believe I underestimated the length of time we've been neighbors. I appreciate you, Sherman. I really do. I hope you know that just because I said four instead of five years, it really. Herman had stood there frowning as Violetta had gone on for a full four. No, five minutes about something that could not be less important. This time he kept his mouth shut and smiled. What do you have there, Hubert? Oh, this, Herman said, grinning. This is my brand new bird feeder. That's just lovely. I'm impressed you got approval. Herman blanked Approval? Yes. I've heard it's gotten quite tricky to get approval for bird feeders. The forest is positively saturated with them, apparently. Herman squinted at Violetta. But you got approval, so you don't have to worry about anyone taking it down in the night and slapping you with a fine. I heard Gerard was fined 38 acorns for an unapproved bird feeder. 38 acorns? Herman thought to himself. He quickly did the math. That would be nearly 6% of his entire stash. Approval, Right. From the Department of Tree Structures and Alterations. Violetta peered at him quizzically. No, up from the Forest Structure Improvement Committee. Herman glanced at his wristwatch.

[Howie]

Oh, wow.

[Logan]

I really have to go. Great to see you, Violetta. He slipped inside his little home, hearing Violetta's voice grow muffled behind him. Hubert, you got approval. Didn't you tell me you got approval, Hubert? But Hubert, I mean Herman had not gotten approval. He didn't even know he needed approval for a bird feeder. It was preposterous. Ridiculous. It couldn't possibly be true. Herman thought back to the last time a helpful neighbor had told him he needed approval for something he wanted to add to his tree.

[Emmett]

Yep. Yeah, you're gonna need approval for that.

[Logan]

His neighbo Xavier had said so authoritatively. But it had not been true. Herman had not needed approval for the little overhang he'd installed above his door, which allowed him to sit outside during a sun shower and feel the misty air on his fur. Violetta couldn't even get his name right. There was no way she was right about this. Still, Herman had spent too much time on his paw crafted bird feeder to have it taken down in the night while he slept. He went to the telephone book and flipped through until he found the right listing. He braced himself for whatever was to come, took a deep breath and dialed.

[Emmett]

This call may be recorded for quality assurance purposes. Please refrain from cracking open acorns while this call is in session.

[Logan]

Then something entirely unexpected happened. Herman had curled himself in his most comfortable leaf stuffed armchair inside his little treehouse, fully expecting to spend all afternoon on the phone getting this sorted. But suddenly, there is a voice.

[Howie]

Yellow, this is Howie. How may I help you?

[Logan]

Uh, hi. Is this an actual squirrel?

[Howie]

Huh? Of course. How may I help you today?

[Logan]

I'm Herman. I live in tree 1287.5. I share a trunk with 1287. Anyway, I would like to install a bird feeder. Actually, I kind of already did. And.

[Howie]

Alright. I'd love to help you with this. Hobert.

[Logan]

Did you say, Herman.

[Howie]

Yeah, Mr. Herman, I'd love to help you with this.

[Logan]

Great, Herman said, relief washing over him. Just as he'd thought Violetta was mistaken. He imagined mentioning it to her later and.

[Howie]

But unfortunately, I cannot help you with this matter over the phone.

[Logan]

Excuse me?

[Howie]

The office.

[Logan]

The office?

[Howie]

Yes, sir. You'll have to visit the office in person for this matter. Bird feeder approvals are no longer provided over the phone. I've had a few unfortunate incidents.

[Logan]

Unfortunate incidents? Herman wondered what kind of unfortunate incidents could possibly be associated with getting approval for a bird feeder? But instead of saying that, he said, so. Just to be clear, I do need approval to install a bird feeder at my tree.

[Howie]

Oh, yes. You do not want to put up one of those without approval. They've been taking those things down left and right.

[Logan]

Howie prattled on for a while about the office and its location and details about what documents to bring.

[Howie]

Make sure you have all your documents. If you don't, you'll just be.

[Logan]

Herman barely heard the rest. His mind was elsewhere with the bird. All he wanted to do was watch the birds gather as he relaxed in his rocking chair. Was that too much to ask?

[Howie]

Good luck, Herman.

[Logan]

Uh, thanks. Herman glanced at his watch. 11am Howie had mentioned the office was open until 5. He had plenty of time to dash over there and sort this out.

[Howie]

Mr. Herman, you still there?

[Logan]

Herman had lowered the phone. One more millimeter and it would have been hung up, the call lost. Yes, Herman said, pressing the phone to his ear.

[Howie]

Just some advice. Go to the office first thing in the morning. Okay. It opens at 9. But go early. Try to be there first.

[Logan]

Will do.

[Howie]

Thanks.

[Logan]

That was nice of him, Herman thought. He didn't have to say that. That night, before he went to sleep, Herman draped a brown tarp over his new bird feeder, the same color as his tree. At least it won't be taken down tonight, he thought to himself. The next morning, Herman woke up bright and early. He had his usual cup of tea and three sunflower seed biscuits. Sitting in his rocking chair outside, he pulled down the tarp from his bird feeder and watched as a little chickadee landed on its ledge and nibbled at the seeds. He spent a few minutes rocking back and forth in his chair, enjoying the beautiful fall morning in the forest, watching birds alight on his feeder. It was so peaceful. Not for the first or even the hundredth time, Herman felt a great swell of gratitude for his lovely home in the heart of the forest. One of his neighbors, Milton J. Skunk, wandered by and stopped for a chat.

[Emmett]

Are you free for lunch today? I've got my new picnic table set up and I'd love to have you over.

[Logan]

Herman considered the offer for a moment. After getting the bird feeder situation sorted out, his day was completely open. I'd love to join you.

[Howie]

Good.

[Emmett]

Come by when the sun's at its highest.

[Logan]

Looking forward to it. With a skip in his scamper, Herman went inside and watered his plants, all 16 of them. Fed his pet ladybug Killarney. Yum.

[Emmett]

Thank you.

[Logan]

And collected his folder of documents, checking it three times to make sure he had everything. There were a few items he considered leaving home, thinking he couldn't possibly need them. But in the end, he took everything better to be over prepared. He scampered out of his tree, hopped on his bicycle and made his way across the morning forest. He even sang to himself as he went. It would be a fantastic day. He'd be first in line at the permits office, quickly check that off his list, then meet his friend for lunch. The office opened at 9, but Herman rolled up on his bicycle at 8:52, a full eight minutes early. When he came to a stop near the entrance of the office, he saw a line of animals. His eyes followed the line from the door of the office through the trees. It just kept going. Herman wandered past it to the front of the office, thinking there was no way this line was the one he needed to join. After all, the office wouldn't even open for another seven minutes. But when he approached the door, a mouse wearing a uniform vest and a name tag that read Philbin shooed him away.

[Emmett]

Back of the line, please. Back of the line.

[Logan]

I'm here to get approval for a bird feeder. I was wondering.

[Emmett]

Good luck, buddy. Back of the line, the mouse said.

[Logan]

Continuing to wave him away. Herman turned and looked at the line, which seemed to have doubled in length since he'd arrived a minute earlier. A knot settled at the bottom of his stomach. He turned to look at the very first animal in line. It was a gopher. The gopher's eyes met. Herman's been here since 4am Buddy. Great. Not only was Herman not first in line, he was not 101st in line. When he finally found his way to the very end of it, he was 237th in line. Hermann had never been to the forest license and permits office before. He did not know that had he told the workers his plans for the day, they would have thought them to be hysterically funny. He says he's going to check it off his list.

[Emmett]

He actually scheduled a lunch date.

[Howie]

All.

[Logan]

He knew was that as early as he had arrived, he was already much too late.

[Rhea]

There is so much more to this story. You can hear the full episode by becoming a Little Stories Premium subscriber. Visit littlestoriespremium.com to join and thank you as always, for listening in.