August is upon us...the fireworks of July are past. Why not make "fireworks" of your own by telling some really funny or scary or interesting or informative stories? Here in the West it is the camping season and there is nothing better to do than sit around as the dusk begins to settle upon the mountains and tell stories. You could begin by sharing the family anecdotes that everyone enjoys hearing again and again. Then follow with a favorite regional tale ("The Windigo" comes to my mind) and then a folktale. Of course, you always want to end with something a little scary (or more scary if the littler ones have been persuaded to go to bed!). Consider storytelling as part of your late summer family reunion; hire a storyteller to liven up your next barbecue or party. There are so many reasons to tell a story: find someone and tell them a story today! Happy summer!