"Do you remember the time that uncle  . . ?" Like most families, mine has its own traditions and lore. My cousin Tommy may ask, "Do you remember the time that ...?" My sister Jean will say to an outsider, "Well, in our family we do it like this ..." Aunt Annette will explain, "It's an old VanderPutten tradition, dearie, that goes back to your grandfather . . ."

Insiders know these tales and family ways. These shared stories and myths -- these family memories -- help define the family. They are the glue that binds the family together through the generations. 

On the following pages is the beginning of a continuing compilation of tales that are part of The VanderPutten Family Memory.