July is the month when we think about our country, patriotism and the freedoms for which we are all grateful.  It's also a great time to think about our history--whether that's the history of our nation, our family, our community or our culture.  What better time to get together and let your children know a little more about their heritage--they love those stories that can be told around the campfire, the barbecue grill, the picnic table or the patio.  Spend some of these long summer twilight evenings exchanging anecdotes and reminiscing about your family.  If you are planning a reunion or a larger "event", remember to add storytelling to the agenda.  There are family members just waiting to tell their tales, or hire a professional storyteller to "liven up" that occasion.  Remember--everything goes better with story, so keep telling tales, Laurie.