Happy 4th of July! The month of remembering and appreciating the freedoms we enjoy is upon us...and wherever you live this is a good time to reflect on your heritage and what is important to you. I teach children and have been asked (living in the USA)--"what is our culture?" as I try to teach the younger generation to respect and understand a little about others and their cultures. We have a great opportunity to "pass on" whatever culture we call our own through story. After all, this has been the way of oral tradition for thousands of years--telling stories that help define who we are and what we value. Since I live in the United States, I enjoy telling some tales that are from my cultural heritage. As we delve into our own culture, we very often find that it is not so different from others...we have much in common. Happy telling!

To quote a famous song--"June is bustin' out all over!" The weather here in Utah is glorious, the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and my honeysuckle bushes are scenting the air. School has just gotten out for the summer and it is a wonderful time to read, tell and listen to stories. Many of you are probably planning family activities, camping trips, reunions and festivals of various types throughout these next three months of summertime. Don't forget to include storytelling on these occasions. Storytelling is a way to link the generations together, to pass on important information and traditions, to keep the culture of your family and area intact, to remember those who have passed on, and just to laugh and cry and enjoy each others company. If you want a different type of entertainment for young and old alike, hire a storyteller for your next barbecue or activity. It's good, old-fashioned fun at its best. Have a great summer!