The first thing I ever recall that influenced me to do storytelling was when my dad used to tell me stories about liars contests they used to have decades ago. That got me thinking about how cool that must’ve been when people would have a contest to see who is the best liar.
Years later, when I was finishing up my practicum in elementary education I saw a couple storytellers put on a presentation and that was the first time in my life I ever felt like I was witnessing something that I absolutely should be doing. Of course, I ended up doing other things for my livelihood either out of obligation or convenience. But, it’s storytelling I feel is a much better fit for me.
About 10 or 12 years ago I started into a new career pursuit and gave it a go but then I put it on the back burner out of financial obligations.
The person who influenced the most in the storytelling world is Sue Hinkel. If it weren’t for her I never would have really explored it very much. I still haven’t fulfilled my potential however what I have done so far is largely due to her prodding. She’s the best cheerleader anyone could ever want to have in storytelling.
I don’t know if I have a favorite holiday but it would probably be Christmas. and if I had to choose where to go on vacation it would always be the mountains of Colorado.
My favorite kinds of stories are southern tall tales and nonsense stories. I hold a special place in my heart for irreverent stories told by puppets, of all things!
P.S. Lee was one of out featured tellers for Mo-Tell’s 2021 Tellabration. (Ironically, Sue
Hinkel was featured that night too!)
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