What Makes Me Unique?
Getting hooked
I saw a storyteller perform in 1989. Afterward, I went up to her and said, “I loved your show and I think I’d like to tell stories too!” She suggested I try telling a few stories in a safe place and see how it worked. I appreciated her encouragement because that is exactly what I did. I learned a couple of stories and told them in my son’s kindergarten class. Wow! The reaction of the students and the teacher inspired me. I was hooked!
Going for it
After several years of telling for fun (yes, that means no fee), and after many encouraging comments from teachers, librarians and the media, I decided to make storytelling a career. It was quite a change from my thirteen years working in a corporation as a manager in Human Resources and Training areas. But if life doesn’t offer opportunities for change, then what’s it all worth, right? I simply decided to “go for it” and I devoted myself to the world of Story.
And that means with a passion. I jumped in with both feet, all heart, and unstoppable energy. And I’ve loved every minute of it. Sharing stories with children, teens and adults has provided a natural high for me.
“Your show was fantastic! You involved the children in participating in the stories in a super way. They, and we, the teachers, were spellbound by your words, tone, actions, volume, pitch, and every movement. Truly you are a master of storytelling!” – Shongum Third Grade Teachers, New Jersey
Loving every minute
Storytelling is an amazing profession. As a storyteller, I enjoy thinking outside the box to create new stories out of old. I love twisting familiar tales. And I enjoy the challenge of creating new stories based on my own experiences. I also love seeing my audiences laugh, relive a memory, and/or think deeply about an experience. The power of story is truly incredible.
I’m proud of my work and I love the wonderful feedback I get for my performances and workshops. A couple of my favorite comments include:
From a PTA coordinator, “My own children had a great time, and my fifth grader reports that my status has been elevated to “cool mom” for scheduling you. (The praise doesn’t get any higher than that!)”
From a principal, “It was the best educational assembly I’ve ever witnessed!”
From a festival organizer, “Thank you for telling an important story, for allowing us to laugh, to moan, and most importantly to feel.”
There are no limits
Storytelling has taken me from preschools through colleges and to festivals all over the United States. I have told stories and presented workshops for adults in corporations. I have told stories to students with physical and emotional challenges. I have even told stories for college orientations and facilitated workshops in law schools.
Story lets us soar high into our imaginations and deep down into our psyche. There are no limits … no walls … no ceilings. That’s what I love about Story! A few years ago, I went scuba diving – with sharks no less! Why? Well, why not? I’ve never been one to turn down an opportunity to experience a new Story.
Another thrill was paragliding in Alaska. I still can’t believe I actually jumped off a mountain with only a parachute (and an experienced pilot – very important!). But I figured if I could enjoy flying with Story, I should try flying through the sky.
What’s next?
My father used to say that he had pre-planned my entire life on the day I was born and he wrote it all down in a Little Black Book. When I did something wonderful, he would assure me it was part of his master plan by saying, “Of course. It’s in The Book!” I don’t think even my father could have predicted the amazing world that Story created for me. Who knows where Story will take me next?
And when I’m not telling stories?
