My main source of storytelling income is through school programs and libraries. Having been a teacher for 23 years this combines my two great loves...performing and working with children. The biggest thrill for me is when a child who I haven't seen for awhile says something like, "I really liked the story where the piper married the mermaid and went to live in the sea." The story stuck. That child has that picture in his head of a magical place where men can live beneath the sea. He has the exciting news that the imagination can be just as powerful as a TV cartoon. 
    I can't wait to try out my stories on some children in Ireland. Will I get the same reactions? How many of my folktales have they heard? Two more weeks and I'll be on my way. 
    Keep posted.