December is here and with it Christmas and other winter holidays.  As the days get shorter and the nights get colder (at least where I live), it's great to have the warmth and light of stories to help us through the darkness.  Stories are what make us human; stories are what connect us to others; stories and their telling are what unite families.  As you participate in whatever celebrations are in your traditions this time of year, be sure to gather family around and tell the stories that make you who you are.  Help your children feel a part of their unique heritage.  And...if you have a special celebration planned, hire a professional storyteller as entertainment.  Your party will be the one others will talk about for months--long after the decorations have been put away.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!