Into the Wild

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-23T20:58:00.000-08:00

Have a wonderful holiday my lovely blog followers!
I am one of those people who believes that Jesus is "the reason for the season" so Happy Holidays, Seasons Greetings, but most of all, Merry Christmas.
Hold your family close. Rest. Reflect. Begin 2011 on a positive note and thank you for following this little blog of mine! :)

Here's me reflecting on the crazy, eventful, unforgettable and forgettable year that was 2010.
(A paradox if there ever was one!) xo

"Open" by Andre Agassi and Svenskt Tenn

2010-12-14T11:29:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned before that I love to read? That's a slight understatement. I am absolutely obsessed with books. If something catches my interest, the first thing I'll do is buy a book on the subject. So, since it's been a long time since I reviewed a book on my blog, and since my most recent read was "Open" by Andre Agassi, I figured it was time to promote an absolutely outstanding book. If you are a fan of tennis you will not be disappointed by this incredible point-by-point view of the sport. But even if you are not, it is such a blatantly honest chronicle of Agassi's lifelong search for identity, something that so many of us can relate to, that I believe anyone can enjoy this autobiography.

Tied to my love of books is my love of learning about new things - people, places, philosophies, histories, and, most recently, Svenskt Tenn! A recent item in my etsy shop, caused me to research a bit about where it came from. Little did I know that I'd soon be learning about Swedish interior design. As it turns out, Svenskt Tenn is an interior design shop located in Stockholm, Sweden. It was founded in 1924 by Estrid Ericson, an art teacher from Hjo who invested a small inheritance she received into the company. Together with the established pewter artist Nils Fougstedt, the company began to offer modern pewter objects at reasonable prices. Today, the shop features furniture and other objects by some of the most skilled Swedish designers and craftsmen. And here's my own little, unique Svenskt Tenn item:

Do Something that Scares You

2010-12-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

After high school I studied theatre. I have acted in and directed dozens and dozens of plays. But the one form of theatrical performance that always scared me was improv. Standing on stage in front of an audience with nothing but yourself and your wit was a terrifying concept. Well, never one to let a fear get the best of me, I joined am improv troupe - The Crosseyed Rascals. Our Xmas show took place on Saturday night and it was a blast.

Sure, not everything was perfect. For example in one scene I found myself trapped under a tiger named Simba with no clue where the scene was going. Thankfully my partners Brad and Mitch baled me out of that one! But overall, the show was a huge success. The audience laughed the night away and the icing on the fruitcake was that I conquered a fear. So let me encourage you to do something that scares you. Even if you end up under a large jungle cat, chances are someone will show up to save your sorry ass!

Insomnia

2010-12-02T21:37:00.000-08:00

Generally, I have no trouble falling asleep. I love sleep. It is my favourite thing in the world to do. But lately I've been having a bit of trouble landing in dream world. I'm not sure why...so I think, and ponder, and end up here, at my blog, and I write a few things down thinking maybe someone out there will read this...perhaps they're battling with their own insomnia...and I end up posting a few pictures of some new items in my etsy shop that I'm really excited about. So if you're here and you can't sleep, check it out and thanks for looking. Now I'm off to bed.

Let it Stop Snowing, please?

2010-11-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

View through the screen door.

One of a few reasons why I wish I was somewhere other than Manitoba right now.

O Snow. How I wish I could delight in you. But you only partner with cold. So I can't.

On another note, please stop by my etsy shop for great vintage xmas gifts! I'm offering free shipping!!

Open for Business, again!

2010-11-19T15:15:00.000-08:00

www.etsy.com/shop/notgrandmasvintage

Well, after many, many months my Etsy shop is now open again!!

I'm pretty excited to get back into the vintage business. :)

Still searching for direction, but might as well have some fun while I'm at it right? xo

Please stay tuned...

The rusty gears, they are a'turnin!

2010-10-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

Well hello my lovely blog followers! It's been awhile.
Did you miss me??
I am still in Winnipeg, MB, Canada. The Republic of Georgia did not pan out, so now I'm here searching for direction, unsure of from where it will come.
But I just wanted to let you know that I'm back and will be using this blog on my quest for a new life plan. And, right now, I'm wondering if it will be found at the local Starbucks, since I seem to be spending all my time here.
Talk at you soon peeps.
Take care.

Down South

2010-07-21T13:58:00.000-07:00

Hello blog followers and friends!
I'm taking a bit of a break from the blog as I let the rest of my summer play out in Winnipeg, MB.
But I will definitely be updating it as soon as I make a decision about where to go come September.
Right now the Republic of Georgia appears to be winning out, but one never knows where life will take them. (especially me!!)
If you want to keep in contact please feel free to email me anytime at:
chaosstar99@hotmail.com
Take care, Mahsi Cho (that's "Thank you very much" in Slavey) for following and Happy Summer!!!
~Kim

One More Goodbye

2010-07-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I leave Fort Good Hope to head back to Winnipeg for the rest of the summer. I haven't really made a big deal in my blog about leaving the North, because for the longest time I thought I would be returning in September for another placement with Frontiers Foundation.
Funny how life never seems to quite work out how you think it will...
I've been offered a job teaching English in the Republic of Georgia...now I must decide if I will do that come September. Yes, the Republic of Georgia. It borders Russia, but is also close to the western Asian influences of Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Talk about going from one extreme to the other.
But for now my attention is focused on saying goodbye to Fort Good Hope...something that is going to be very hard to do.

Goodbyes

2010-07-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

The Assembly closed today. It was here and gone so quickly!
Also, more importantly, Charlie Tobac's funeral was today. Fort Good Hope truly has lost one of its best. I think that, besides a way for family and friends to say goodbye, funerals are a way to remind those of us who are still on this earth to cherish every minute. It's sad that it often takes a funeral to do this though. Life can be over in the blink of an eye. And like Laura (Charlie's wife) said at his funeral today, "I wasn't ready for him to go." Are you ready? Am I ready? Am I ready to leave this world? Am I ready if anyone in my family were to suddenly pass away? These are the things I think about at funerals...but I don't want to think about them only at funerals...as cliche as it sounds, I do want to live each day as if it were my last. This is not something I have always done, but it's something I want to strive each day to do.
Here is a picture I took this afternoon as I was walking to the church for the funeral. It's of the older part of town.

Cherish every moment and tell those people who you love that you love them!

Assembly: Don Burnstick

2010-07-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I participated in a workshop presented by humourist, wellness worker and healer, Don Burnstick. I also attended his Comedy Show in the evening. Apparently (according to his website) he is "one of Canada's best comedians" and I had never even heard of him! I believe it to be a true claim though. His show gently and sometimes not-so-gently mocks White people, Native people, the differences between White people and Native people...it really was hilarious, and I'm glad I got to see him live and participate in his workshop.

Don Burnstick

I look like such a DWEEB in this photo, but I figured my mom would like to see it so that's why I'm posting it, but only a small size hahaha. Yeesh. Such a Dweeb...

Assembly: Circles, Fires and Hand Games

2010-07-14T18:27:00.000-07:00

Having fun in the Field

During the day, the Dene Nation delegates hold meetings and presentations, conducting official business. I haven't managed to make it to any morning sessions yet, but I plan to! The evening, though, is when the fun and games happen. Yesterday in the town field there was a "feeding of the fire" ceremony. Then I took part in a sharing circle presented by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. I've mentioned it in a previous blog post...google it! And then, I witnessed for the first time, the famous Dene Hand Games! I've never seen anything like it. The energy, passion and vigor that these guys put into playing was awesome. I'm still not sure of all the rules or what the point is lol. But watching it is like watching a show. Exciting and very entertaining.

Feeding the Fire ceremony

Men playing the Dene Hand Games

Hand Games

And just for information sake, these pictures were taken at about midnight. This is what night time looks like in the North!

Opening Ceremonies Fun yet Bittersweet

2010-07-13T18:13:00.000-07:00

The Dene Drummers

Yesterday evening the Dene Nation Assembly kicked off with a late yet lively Opening Ceremonies in the town field. I have been hearing about the Assembly non-stop since I arrived in Good Hope, so it was very exciting to finally see it come to fruition. It was to a somber backdrop though. Two days ago a loved and respected member of the Fort Good Hope community, Charlie Tobac, passed away very suddenly. Charlie was a truly kind and generous soul. He was so dedicated to the traditional Aboriginal way of life, yet so willing to share his knowledge with outsiders. He is, in fact, one of the people who met my parents in Winnipeg during the Residential School Convention. He will be so, so missed.
Fittingly, the Ceremonies began with the Dene Drummers taking the stage and playing a prayer song for Charlie. Then there were some very amazing drum dances, of which I took part!! And a fun jig, twist and jive competition, of which I didn't take part. lol.

Angus during the prayer song (I think this is one of my favourite pictures)

Drum Dance!!

In honour of Charlie I'm re-posting this picture. He's 2nd from the right between his wife, Laura, and my Dad. He will be missed.

In Honour of my buddy Arthur L.

2010-07-10T13:11:00.000-07:00

His birthday was yesterday, but I didn't have time to blog so today's post is in honour of him.
Arthur was one of the first people I met in FGH. At first I was kind of scared of him cuz he was very mellow and having a "not too cheery" day. ;) Little did I know that I was soon to become friends with a most trustworthy, loyal, intelligent and generous soul, who also has the BEST sense of humour. "Stop saying 'nice one' Arthur!!!" lol
In my quest to reach out, make more friends and become a better friend myself, Arthur has taught me a LOT!
Thanks so much Fur-Fur!! I will miss you soooo much! And HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Coming Soon: Dene Nation Assembly

2010-07-06T19:37:00.000-07:00

It begins on July 12 and runs till the 16th - the 40th Annual Dene Nation Assembly, and this year it's happening in Fort Good Hope. Everyone is very busy getting ready for it, and I'm helping out where I can. :) The Dene Nation is the people group that most Aboriginals in the Northwest Territories belong to, and delegates are coming from all over the North. It should be very exciting.

And in other news...I forgot to share another recent "Only in the North" story. While I was waiting for my plane from Fort Good Hope to Inuvik (delayed 2 hours!) I got to talking with Douglas who works at the tiny Fort Good Hope airport. I told him where I was going and he quickly exclaimed, "My sister lives in Inuvik. I'll give her a call and ask her to pick you up at the airport and drive you into town." Needless to say, Douglas's sister Keltie met me a couple hours later in Inuvik. She was sooo nice and did indeed drive me the 10 kms from the airport to town. Thanks Douglas and Keltie. Everyone knows someone somewhere who can do such-and-such for you up here! :)

Back in Good Hope :)

2010-07-03T15:18:00.000-07:00

So the rest of my time in Inuvik was awesome! Whenever I travel, inevitably, I'll end up meeting and having great conversations and/or adventures with strangers who quickly become friends. Crystal is one such person. I met her in a shop in Inuvik. We instantly got along and she invited me to hang out with her on Canada Day. We had a BLAST!! I adore those perfect spontaneous moments that will never be repeated yet stay with you forever.

And now I'm back in Good Hope...with only two weeks to go till I head back down south for the rest of the summer!! I don't want to think about that tho, cuz I want to blissfully avoid, at least for two more weeks, the decisions that will have to be made when I return "home". Plus, I don't really want to leave Good Hope...and I can honestly say that I've never said that about anywhere before!! Maybe my decisions won't be as tough to make as I fear...
Here's one more shot from Inuvik. They have the most Northern community greenhouse in the world! I went and toured it. Awesome.

INUVIK!

2010-06-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

Sidewalks, traffic lights, more than two stores, restaurants, ordering from a menu, a haircut!, vanilla lattes, Pizza Hut, mmmm Inuvik. :)

The weather's been a bit cool and cloudy, but that did not deter me from enjoying my new HAIRCUT!!! Hooray! Thank you Stephanie from 'Northern Hilites' salon!! :)

The famous Igloo Church

The Wells & Parental Update

2010-06-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

Fort Good Hope, from the River

Yesterday I went on a four hour boat ride to Norman Wells with Angus!! It was very long, but so very beautiful to travel down the Mackenzie on such a clear, sunny day. And speaking of sun, I remembered to put sunscreen on my face, except for my forehead! LOL! I'm so glad I have bangs, cuz my forehead got sooo burned, it looks ridiculous.
Here's couple shots from the journey:

The Ramparts, near Good Hope

At the dump in Norman Wells...do you see him??

There he is!!

Our Captain...Angus!!

And speaking of Angus...a couple posts ago I mentioned that he was in Winnipeg last week for a Residential Schools Convention, and that he met my parents!!! Well here's a photo from their meeting. Yay!! With them are Charlie and Laura, two other Good Hopers who were in Winnipeg for the convention.

Angus, Bonnie (Mom), Pat (Dad), Charlie & Laura

Sooo awesome to connect Good Hope with Winnipeg! :)

Bon Voyage Anouk!

2010-06-23T16:22:00.000-07:00

Wow! How can a friendship form so fast and a couple months fly so quickly?? Anouk, who I've mentioned in some previous blog posts, is the other recreation assistant that I've been working with up here. As her term was from Sept/09 to today! June 23/10, this morning she began her long journey back to Belgium, her home country.

Throughout these past couple months, Anouk became so much more than merely my co-worker. She was the person who met me at the airport when I arrived in Good Hope, and she guided me through the first weeks of this crazy journey. For that I will forever be in her debt. She was my roommate, and was often at the receiving end of some venting when I needed a sounding board. She helped me learn how to do a job that had no job description and how to be confident in a place where one is an obvious outsider! Not only did she teach me a lot about composting and cooking, but she taught me so much about how to be a friend. Aside from a best friend in grade 6, I never really formed close friendships over the years. There are a variety of reasons for this - I move around a lot, I tend to lean on the introverted side, I don't trust people very easily - but it is something that I've often wanted to try and change. I still have a long way to go, but hanging around people like Anouk (and other "Herd" members - Arthur, Ida and Angie) I'm slowly learning what good, solid friendships look like.
Anouk doesn't like pictures of herself posted on the Internet. So, sadly, you don't get to see what she looks like here...but just picture a beautiful 19 year old Belgian with shoulder-length brown hair, non-stop energy, sparkling eyes, and a sunny smile. I'll miss you Anouk!!

Happy National Aboriginal Day!!

2010-06-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

What perfect weather for a cookout and some fun in the town field for National Aboriginal Day! Here are some beautiful Fort Good Hope faces enjoying the holiday...

(that's the Chief on the right)

Yours truly with my buddy Antoine

That famous Aboriginal past time, passed down through the generations, taught to the young and cherished by the entire community...balloon and egg racing. lol.

HAPPY NATIONAL ABORIGINAL DAY!!

The Unofficial Ambassador of Fort Good Hope

2010-06-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

Angus, who I've mentioned in a few previous blog posts, has truly been one of the most friendly and welcoming people I've met in Fort Good Hope! He is constantly phoning Anouk and myself to see how we're doing. He's always suggesting get togethers or little trips. He took me on my first skidoo ride, he took me and Anouk on a boat ride to Fossil Lake the other day. He is someone I'll always remember fondly from my time here. Anyway, this week he is Winnipeg for a special convention planned and put on by the "Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada" - an organization created for survivors of Canada's Residential Schools. Being up in the North, pretty much everyone I meet over a certain age is a survivor. The whole history and implications of Residential Schools is too much to get into in this simple blog post. Yet, the thing I am excited about is...before Angus left Fort Good Hope for the convention, I gave him my parents phone number so, if he had time, he could contact them when he was in Winnipeg. Well, he did!! And he and my parents are getting together for dinner tomorrow night!! I just think it's so awesome that my friend from up here is actually gonna meet my family down south.

CBQE On the Air

2010-06-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

On the Air Sunday afternoon, Live Jam session

One thing I realized I haven't posted about yet is the Fort Good Hope radio station! It's just a one room operation and it only broadcasts to the community, but it's one of those quirky things that, before I came here, I pictured as kind of a Northern cliche...well, it's a Northern cliche that's completely true! And I've even been on the air promoting some community events. :) CBQE all the way!!

Fossil Lake

2010-06-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

I find it so ironic that up here in the high North of Canada the weather is hotter, sunnier and all around better than down south in Winnipeg and Edmonton. It has been hot, hot, HOT here. +25 in the shade and climbing!
Last night I got to experience my first NWT boat ride. Angus (our lovely Fort Good Hope friend and unofficial ambassador) took myself, Anouk, Ida and Gretal (Ida's dog) on an awesome boat ride from the Mackenzie River, down Fossil Creek to Fossil Lake. We hiked up to a waterfall near Fossil Lake, and then tried our hand at some fishing. It was such a fun time, complete with eagle, beaver and muskrat sightings! The only down side was the mosquitoes. All the stories are true, they are getting torturous, and will probably soon make any outdoor activity less than enjoyable...even with bug spray! We were undeterred though. :) Here's some pics of the trip. Oh, and this is what "night time" looks like now in Fort Good Hope. The sun sets about 2am!

Headin' out on the Mackenzie

Parked at Fossil Lake

Waterfall

Headin' back down Fossil Creek

Fossil Creek

Having another Northen adventure! (my hair is getting so long and out of control!!! lol)

School's Out!

2010-06-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

It's exam week at Chief T'Selehye School and it's my last day of tutoring. I had such an awesome time helping out these young guys. I'm actually gonna miss 'em.

Here's 14 year old Mackenzie, a guy who'd much rather be out hunting or quading than in school! lol.

!Grad 2010!

2010-06-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

Up here I am constantly struck by how much I have taken for granted in my life. Yesterday was Grade 12 graduation day in Fort Good Hope. What an exciting time for the whole town! 9 students graduated which was the biggest graduating class from the school to date.
In the community and family I grew up in, it was just assumed that my sister and I would go to school until grade 12 and then graduate and move onto to bigger and better things - university, career, etc. If you dropped out of school or didn't make it to grade 12 grad you were the exception. Here, for many different reasons, it is the opposite. It is the exception to graduate, and families don't naturally assume that their young people will pass all the way through to grade 12. And if they do, it is a VERY big deal.
Many in the town came out for the ceremony and feast. The school gym was decorated in a beautiful Hollywood theme. And the graduates all looked so wonderful! Even though I haven't been here that long and I don't know the grads that well, I was so proud to be a part of such a big milestone in their lives. Congrats to the grads of '10!!!

Some of the grads and their friends. :)

During the ceremony - the opening prayer.

Cara, the valedictorian! She is such a sweetie and gave such a great speech!!

Decorations!! And Congratulations!

Big, Big, BIG News

2010-06-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

There is now a second store open in town!!

The Northern Store burned down in December, and yesterday it re-opened. Hooray!...Competition for the Co-op!

The Ice-Breaker Variety Show!!

2010-05-31T11:44:00.000-07:00

The FGH Little Ballerinas, rehearsing for the Show

Who knew that a tiny town way up in the North of Canada had such artistic talent! What a great time last night at the Fort Good Hope Ice-Breaker Variety Show!! The house was full, the acts were on, and everyone seemed to have a really good time. In addition to dancing and acting in the Show, I ended up emceeing the event which, unfortunately, means I was not able to get a lot of pictures. Here are a few though, of some of the talented artists up here in Fort Good Hope:

Jayda. She sang, played the guitar and did a fiddle solo!

Angus playing the flute.

Kenny Jr. doin a kick-ass drum solo

Chad. One of the visual artists who displayed work.

I was so proud to be part of this event! A big Congratulations to all the artists in Fort Good Hope.

Almost Showtime!

2010-05-28T18:39:00.000-07:00

Wow, this week has flown by!! Anouk and I have been so busy preparing for "The Ice-Breaker Variety Show" which hits the Fort Good Hope Band Hall stage on Sunday. It's a show featuring artists from the community. Anouk started preparing for it before I was even up here, but since the Arts are right up my alley I totally jumped on the Show bandwagon. Performance wise I'm involved with two small theatre pieces and a modern dance...and then there's all the decorating, organizing, stage managing and such. It's going to be a fun time and I'm looking forward to it. Pictures will be posted after the event on Sunday. Break a leg to everyone!! :)

Weekend Recap

2010-05-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

It was a very busy long weekend here in Fort Good Hope. The annual Sylvia Kelly Memorial Volleyball Tournament took place, and the whole town, as well as many neighbouring communities, came out to have fun, play, and compete for prizes.

Anouk and I were tasked with planning some activities for the kids who were a bit too young to play volleyball, to give them something else to do. It was pretty fun (surprisingly, considering my lukewarm feelings towards children!) We had a couple movie nights; climbed Old Baldy - the largest hill in town - and roasted marshmallows; did some arts & crafts; and although we did not have a chance to watch much of the volleyball, we still had a great time. The photo above is me and some of the girls who climbed Old Baldy!

But...the hilight of the weekend for me was the Fiddle and Drum Dancing on Sunday night/early morning (it ended at 3am!!) It was the first time I have ever seen and danced at a party like that. The drumming was my favorite though. So powerful and wonderful.

The musicians

The dancers

The drummers

Oh, and regarding my last post...we got water!! Friday afternoon. Thanks for sending those prayers to the water gods :) Have a great day.

H Two O No

2010-05-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday afternoon Anouk and I ran out of water. Up here, water is delivered to everyone's house every couple of days via water truck. Each house has a big tank, connected to all the taps, that the truck pumps water into, and it's usually more than enough to last two or three days...well, Anouk happened to do umpteen loads of laundry last weekend, and we're thinking that's why we ran out. Today is Friday. In theory the water truck is supposed to come to our house today. In theory. We do have a large plastic jug of filtered water that we use for drinking and cooking. But this, too, is starting to dwindle. All I can say is, thank goodness for awesome friends and their showers! But the huge pile of dishes in our kitchen sink is starting to unnerve me...please cross your fingers and send some prayers to the water gods who, in our case, are the water truck drivers!!

TIME!

2010-05-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

I just need a moment to vent about one of my biggest pet peeves up here. Nothing ever, EVER starts on time. For example, yesterday a meeting that was "scheduled" for 1:15pm didn't start till after 1:30. A rehearsal that was set to begin at 7pm didn't get going till 7:40pm! It usually doesn't bother me too much, but yesterday it got to me. I really don't know why people even bother to set start times here. They should just say, "we'll start somewhere between 7 and 8pm, and even then we may not get going till 9pm...depending on if anyone shows up." Okay. I'm done now :)

Random Bits

2010-05-17T11:09:00.000-07:00

Didn't feel too well on the weekend - I think I was just physically and mentally run down. But a bit of solitude and re-focus helped a lot. I decided to remind myself of the two main reasons I'm here:
1) To learn. I am a firm believer in the old cliche, "Knowledge is Power". The more one knows the better choices one can make and, in turn, the better human being one can become (at least that's what I think!).
2) To help in any way I can. I never expect to change the world, but if I can pitch in here or there in the community, then my hope is that someone, somehow can benefit. Perhaps it's a bit of a random way to think, but it's working for now!

So, here's a pic of one of the students I tutor. He is Trouble with a capitol "T"!! But he tries...sometimes. :)

And here are some handmade slippers I purchased from a local lady named Marsella. I absolutely adore them!!

And lastly...I have never before done anything in the kitchen...other than eat! I don't cook. I don't bake. And I certainly don't measure cups of flour! Well, I decided I would attempt to make bannock. And here are the results, and it actually tasted good!! I was quite proud of myself and might even try something else sometime...maybe something where I'll have to crack an egg!

smells good!!

Chicken Hunting

2010-05-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

The weather cooperated, the trail beckoned, but alas, the chickens foiled us. I ventured into the bush with my buddy Arthur in search of wild chickens...we didn't catch any, but I did get to try Spruce Gum for the first time! Tastes just like it sounds - like gum from a spruce tree, go figure.

It's the Mad Trapper of Rat River!!!

Spruce Gum

Arthur getting us Spruce Gum. Thanks for the hunt Arthur!!

Only in the North, or Ice, Ice Baby

2010-05-12T10:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had one of those, 'I can't believe I'm here and doing this' moments.

I've been working a lot with the Chief lately. Once he found out my professional background is in communications and writing he kinda nabbed me to do some writing projects for him. Yesterday he called, told me to get my camera and notepad ready because we were heading out on a charter flight to document the status of the ice jams on the river. Also, to check up on local people who are living on the land right now who may be at risk of flooding. Fort Good Hope flooded once a few years ago, so checking the ice jams is a way to prepare if and when there is another flood. The experience went something like this:

1) climb into this tiny propeller plane

2) squeeze in behind the pilot, yes I really was this close to him so I could tap him on the shoulder if I wanted him to turn the plane around for a better shot

3) click away with my camera when we reached the big ice jams

4) check up on people who are living on the land right now

5) return to earth and post our results for the community

wow.

Our Lady of Good Hope

2010-05-10T11:52:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to photograph the Lady of Good Hope Church the other day. I dare say it rivals anything that I've seen in Europe. The brilliant colours are impossible to capture fully in photos, but I wanted to post some anyway. The church is older than the country of Canada, and the man who built it (Father Petitot) used berries and other natural elements to create the paint for the interior. So stunning. Definitely the second most beautiful thing in Fort Good Hope...the first, for me, is the Mackenzie River!

I am so enjoying my time here. So far, any negatives are far outweighed by the positives. Plus I would have to say that I have learned more in a month - not only about the Dene people, but about myself - than I did my entire year in Edmonton! Hope all is well down south!

The Herd

2010-05-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

It's amazing to me how quickly I've formed friendships up here. "The Herd" as we are known, see each other pretty much every day whether at work or play. I guess it's inevitable in such a small community, but I feel very, very lucky to have been so accepted by these peeps...including the four legged ones!

Max

Gretal

Last night we decided to have a "Mexican Night". As a Northern newcomer, it's sure helped to have a such an awesome group of people to hang with!

News from Down South

2010-05-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

I've been published!!! Yippee!!

http://www.avenueedmonton.com/articles/page/item/jump-to-it

In Avenue Edmonton Magazine. Some awesome pics too!! Please check it out. Any and all feedback welcome. :)

Tea and Bannock

2010-05-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

It's customary in the community to have tea and bannock at the ready for unexpected guests. Yesterday evening we had our first "official" uninvited guest. Afterward, Anouk and I had a good talk about if, when you move to a new community, you should or are expected to follow all the customs and practices of that community? At home (or "down south") neither of us would ever dream of stopping by someone's place unannounced, expecting to be served tea and food, and then staying for an indefinite period of time. We would feel too intrusive!...Not so up here. :)

Hail to the Chief

2010-05-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

I spent Friday doing some admin work with "The Chief". Pondering that term, I still picture the grade school textbook images of an elderly First Nations man wearing a feathered head piece, sitting cross-legged before a fire and smoking a pipe. Our chief is not like that at all! He is fairly young and very open and intelligent. He told me that he hopes to be a bridge between the traditional older generation and the modern younger one. He is very dedicated to his people, but I sense he is hampered by a system that is, right now, a non-system, and he needs people with fire and passion to assist him with the goals he has for this community...

In other news: The ice is moving, there's still tons of daylight at midnight, and I just finished "The White Queen" by Phillipa Gregory. I really enjoy her stuff!

Yellowknife

2010-04-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

at one of our restaurant pit stops

4.5 days. 13 tweenagers. 4 flights. 8 soccer games. 1 Diary of a Wimpy Kid and I survived it all!!! Admittedly I don't have a lot of patience when it comes to kids...particularly if they misbehave. And considering I have never chaperoned before, I was a bit nervous going into this trip. Overall tho, I really can't complain. Everyone returned to Fort Good Hope safe and sound (albeit a bit exhausted...especially us adults!) And here's a few things I learned while supervising the kids during their soccer tournament in Yellowknife:
- I am absolutely convinced that 12 year olds have a defect of the brain that prompts them to ask the same questions 10,000 times a day
- Each of these 10,000 questions absolutely must be answered at the moment they think of it, regardless if the adult at hand is engaged in another conversation...ESPECIALLY if the adult at hand is engaged in another conversation
- Mumbling is their preferred dialect
- Ipods are their preferred accessory
- "Huh?" is there preferred response
- All are masters at tuning out the adult voice that is trying to discipline them
- At a dance you definitely don't dance, you walk, strut, giggle and shriek in large groups

I was pretty proud of our kids tho. No one got hurt and they had fun, and that's what it's all about anyway!

our troupe :)

Coach Jimmy at one of the girls' games

Victims of Crime Awareness Week

2010-04-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

"Down South" (as it's called here) there are many stereotypical views held about the North, and vice versa. But particularly when it comes to Aboriginal people, I have heard and seen many negative things over the years. In fact, I would say that my general view of Aboriginal people was one based on fear. I was afraid of them. This week, however, all those stereotypes were turned on their heads as I sat and participated in workshops and sharing circles for Victims of Crime Awareness Week. Former victims and former abusers told stories, shed tears and, above all, shared hope regarding their community, their people and their desire to stop violence. It was inspiring and beautiful. Particularly touching for me was when a woman looked across the circle at her now adult daughter (who is struggling to leave an abusive relationship herself) and said, "I'm sorry for treating you badly. I'm sorry for beating you when you were a child." And the daughter said, "It's okay Mom. I don't blame you. I love you. It made me who I am today, a strong woman." I don't think there was a dry eye in the circle.

Heading to Yellowknife for the weekend to chaperone a group of 13 year olds participating in a soccer tournament. Lord give me strength!! :)

group work during Victims of Crime Awareness Week

The Band Office (kind of like the town hall) is where most community events take place. This is also where the Recreation Coordinator works, and she is who Anouk and I work with to help with community events.

part of a painting on the outside of the Band Office

Change of Plans

2010-04-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

No Colville Lake this weekend :( We (Anouk, myself and 3 others) were supposed to go for their Spring Carnival. But, since there are no paved roads up here, and the winter ice road has melted and turned to mud, we didn't make it. We tried tho. Drove 15 kms in about an hour and a half on the bumpiest ride I have ever experienced! Anouk told me that plans can change often up here...So today I just walked around the town and took some photos:

modern version of a teepee

the one and only store here

in front of a house

at the Catholic church's graveyard, the town also has a pentecostal church

Learning Every Day

2010-04-16T10:32:00.000-07:00

My first NT sunset...at about 10:30pm!

I've only been here three days and I've already done and seen so many new things it's astonishing to me. Yesterday I heard a traditional Aboriginal story about Warrior's Mountain from Charlie. Today, Angus took me on my first skidoo ride, and let me drive! It was on the Mackenzie River...one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Yes, there are challenges - only one store, no job description, mud (lol) - but what I'm learning more than makes up for any "negative".

Our (Anouk and my) house. It's very nice and comfy on the inside ;)

New friends

I'm here!

2010-04-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

Flew from Winnipeg to Edmonton. Edmonton to Yellowknife. Yellowknife to Norman Wells. Then a small propeller plane from Norman Wells to Fort Good Hope. Anouk (the girl I work with) met me at the "airport" - a teeny one-room just outside the town. Brent and Bob, two RCMP dudes, drove us back into town, and then proceeded to try and recruit me to work as a guard! (I said I'd think about it.) It's beautiful here, but very, very different from what this city girl is used to. I've already met some wonderful people and can't wait for further stories and adventures. Not able to load pics yet, but I'm working on that!!

Here We Go!!

2010-04-12T12:01:00.000-07:00

Bags are packed. Stuff is in storage. Leaving tonight for the far North!! I'm not sure when I'll be able to update my blog for the first time up there. So I wanted to take a second to give a big "thank you" to all you wonderful peeps who follow my blog. I sure enjoy updating it, as well as following many of your own wonderful, creative blogs.
Wish me luck. Wow. Here goes nothing!! I hope NWT is ready for me! xo

from www.etsy.com/serpentmandalas (love her stuff so much)

Pit Stop at the Parents

2010-04-09T17:27:00.000-07:00

photo from www.etsy.com/barbaragordon

In Winnipeg for a couple days saying goodbye to the folks.

It never ceases to amaze me. No matter how old I get, no matter how old she gets,
my mom never stops mothering me. xo

Last Day as an Edmontonian

2010-04-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

Yippee!! The three things I accomplished during my too long year and a half here:
1. Paid off an 8 grand credit card debt
2. Started my etsy shop
3. Got published for the first time in avenue magazine
I'm sure there were more things I did, I just can't remember what they were.

Bye bye Edmonton. Next stop, Northwest Territories!! xo

Home Sweet Not Quite Home

2010-04-06T19:40:00.000-07:00

Just got home from Cincinnati. But "home" isn't always the place you come back to...Edmonton never really felt like home anyway. I'm back here for two days before finally heading North. Go figure I was just offered the TEFL job in Guatemala! But, I committed to Fort Good Hope, so that's where I'll be trekking.

I haven't quite returned to reality yet. So in honour of our time in Cinicinnati, here's how Shawny and I started every day: Frisch's Big Boy breakfast buffet. The best and most friendly service either of us had ever encountered.

And how we ended every day: On the balcony of our hotel, looking out over the Ohio River to downtown Cincinnati.

The Zoo and stuff

2010-04-04T17:15:00.000-07:00

I have mixed feelings about zoos. Do I protest the fact that animals are being forced to live outside their natural environments? Or do I reap the educational benefits of seeing animals that I'd never get the chance to see otherwise?...Shawny and I went to the Cincinnati Zoo today. We had fun, but felt sad for the animals...

We leave Cincinnati tomorrow. Then it's back to reality. *sigh*

The reason we're in Cinci

2010-04-02T14:48:00.000-07:00

Justin Vernon. His concert last night at Cincinnati's Memorial Hall was absolutely jaw-dropping. He is an incredible artist and it really was a privilege to see and hear him live.

The opening act - Colin Stetson - played the saxophone and clarinet. It was like nothing I'd ever heard before! Completely original and inspiring. Shawny (my s.o.) and I even got our picture on a site reviewing the show - pic #21. An awesome experience all around!

And here's more Shepard Fairey street art, just cuz I'm loving his stuff so much right now.
Three more days. We're having fun and the weather is HOT! Wish I would have brought shorts. Who would have thunk it?

C-I-N-C-I-N-N-A-T-I Cincinnati

2010-03-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

Does anyone remember that song from the movie "Babes in Toyland" with a really young Drew Barrymore and Keanu Reeves? My s.o. and I are in Cincinnati. Here's a couple shots from our first day. This one is from a fountain in the main square downtown.

We went and saw a Shepard Fairey exhibit at the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center. Amazing!!

And here we are chillin' outside...it's really warm here! Great weather. Great times.

Dingleberry

2010-03-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

I'm a fan of the site regretsy. It makes me laugh. I'm also a sucker for cute/fun/unique plushies. Through my following of regretsy, as well as connecting with other etsy sellers who enjoy it, I purchased Dingleberry the Third from an awesome seller: absolutely small!! And he arrived today. Here he is in all his post travel glory. (Hmm, blogspot isn't accepting my pics for some reason, so here's his original shot from absolutely small's amazing shop).

And in other news...before I head up North I'm taking a little side trip with my s.o. to Cincinnati. So next time I post it'll be from that great city :) It's been awhile since I've traveled down to the States...glad the Canadian dollar's doing well! (such a grown-up thing to notice and comment on...sheesh!)

Packbacking

2010-03-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

Nothing but packing this weekend...

And overindulging in my addiction. No Starbucks in Fort Good Hope.

Worse than no cell phone coverage in my opinion! ;)

Last day of Work

2010-03-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

I love last days of work.

And from this point on I vow to remain office-free for the rest of my days.

from Flapper Doodle (LOVE this shop)

Such a life is just not for me.

Leavin on a teeny tiny jet plane

2010-03-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

Just got my ticket. April 13, 2010 I land in Fort Good Hope, NWT!

from Lee Arthaus

I realize I haven't talked about my etsy shop in awhile. I plan to put it in vacation mode for a few months, and then decide if I'm gonna keep it goin while I'm up there.

So check it out now, before it takes a nap. ;) Here's some of my fave items:

Soon to be Textually Frustrated...

2010-03-23T10:03:00.000-07:00

from Pinky Pig

I only got my first cell phone a year ago...begrudgingly...it was a gift. I never wanted to become one of "those" people. Fast forward a year. I am a text addict. Granted the only person I text is my s.o. (significant other). But now I just can't imagine a day where we don't yip back and forth to each other.

I just found out that Fort Good Hope, NWT does not have cellular service...at all! My s.o. and I will have to settle for talking whenever we can on a landline. Oh the burdens of life in a handheld technology addicted society! *sigh* ;)

Just when you thought it was Spring...

2010-03-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

It's winter again in Edmonton! Cold and snowy this morning, but I guess I better get used to that.

I'm changing the name of my blog to reflect my upcoming change to the Northwest Territories. Maurice is still around tho, badgering away.

I got a great start on my packing this weekend - one goal accomplished.

And...here's some books I've read lately cuz I realized I haven't posted that in awhile:

Tangling up family at its finest! Such vivid and honest storytelling. A thought-provoking read.

Blunt, controversial and persuasive. This book doesn't beat around the bush, it takes you right to the centre, thorns and all, and makes a compelling argument. Wish it would have spent more time on ideas for solving the problem though, instead of just stating the problem from every angle.

Waters is definitely one of my favourite fiction authors. She draws you in so subtlely and before you know it your gasping with the thrill of it. One of those books you hate to see end, it's so good you want to stay awhile longer.

This weekend...Pack! No procrastinating...

2010-03-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

suitcases from VintageStatus

This weekend I plan to finish most of my packing. This may prove difficult because my sister lent me the fourth season of "Bones". *sigh* Yet, I remain hopeful. As I have packed and moved a dozen times, I consider myself pretty knowledgeable about the whole affair. Here's my list of some things you need to do to pack well:

1. Get rid of stuff, throw away, donate!, sell it if you have the time, but if you don't, visit the dumpster/good will shop often!
2. GET RID OF STUFF! I know those CDs/movies/shoes you bought 10 years ago that you never listen to/watch/wear may hold a special place in your heart, but do you really want to lug them around with you for the rest of your life? I know this may prove difficult for some...but you just gotta buckle down and do it. Eventually, you won't even remember the stuff you got rid of.
3. With everything, ask yourself: Do I really want to lug this around with me for the rest of my life?
4. Invest in some bankers boxes. I use mine over and over and they hold up well. Plus they're easy to transport - not too big, convenient handles, worth the money!
5. Pack your boxes according to rooms. This makes unpacking so much easier!
6. Double up - I wrap my breakables in my t-shirts.
7. Books are usually my heaviest things. Put a layer or two on the bottom of a box and lighter stuff on top. This way, you won't break your back.
8. Crank the music and get 'er done!

propeller from verabel

I'm very blessed that my Aunt has agreed to store all my stuff while I'm up North. Now I just have to decide what I'm going to take there. What does one take to the Arctic? During the summer? "Bug and bear spray" I've been told...eeeek!

Winning stuff = FUN!

2010-03-17T17:19:00.000-07:00

I recently won a giveaway on Little Gray Pixel's blog! My first blog giveaway win. It's soo much fun. And it arrived in the mail today! Here are the pics:

So beautiful!! Thank you Little Gray Pixel/Vanessa. I'm definitely going to use these after I move up North. People are going to wonder where I got such lovely summery images so close to the Arctic! :)
Go to her shop and buy her stuff everyone! Her photos are wonderful.

Another "next door" find

2010-03-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

A gallery across the street from where I work. Bearclaw Gallery.
(Artwork by Maxine Noel.)
I decided it was about time I visited...I've only been working here a year and a half!
Stunning art, and some of the friendliest people in the world.
Right next door the whole time.

Leaving

2010-03-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

It’s uncanny how when I am soon to depart a place (I move from Edmonton to the Northwest Territories in just under a month), I discover things about that place that leave me in awe. Perhaps it’s because when we know we’re leaving we become more nostalgic, more open to seeing what we may never get the chance to see again. Thing is, these things have been around us the whole time…and for me, I allow myself to get too bogged down in the day-to-day that I don’t see them. But this weekend I SAW the new Art Gallery of Alberta:

An exhibit featuring the stunning portrait work of Yousuf Karsh. "Karsh: Image Maker features original portraits, studio and darkroom artifacts, and archival material that build an unforgettable picture of the artist that was Karsh." Every single image told a story. It was a breathtaking experience.

Karsh, Estrellita Karsh, 1963. (MFA via Time.com)

An exhibit of sound by Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller. "Consisting of 98 speakers, The Murder of Crows is a complex interweaving of voice, music and sound that generates a profound physical impact on the listener." A complete mental, physical and emotional experience, this artistic piece stayed with me long after I left the gallery.

http://www.cardiffmiller.com/about.html

I encourage you all to see "your place" with fresh eyes. Be open to the treasures that are right next door.

The Junque Cellar

2010-03-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

A treasure hunting trip to Edmonton's Junque Cellar always makes me happy. Full of curios, antiques and retro fun, it's the perfect way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon. And since I'm always on the lookout for funky feminine finds for my etsy shop, I picked up these gems. Enjoy!

And Fun Foto Friday!

2010-03-12T16:05:00.000-08:00

I found my hero while wandering around Warsaw, Poland with my bestest sister in 2008.

Funk for Friday

2010-03-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I received an etsy purchase in the mail. All the way from Finland, these amazing leopard sleeves by vaisto. And I absolutely adore them. I'm wearing them today and have already gotten comments, "What are you wearing?!?" and I love it. It's the simple things in life, the added touches of fun and funk that I adore, and my new sleeves are just such a gem. So treat yourself to something fun and funky this weekend! You won't regret it.

Maurice: Maybe I'll treat myself to a big pile of mud to dig a hole in...

If mud makes you happy, treat yourself to mud!

Fort Good Hope, NWT here I come!!

2010-03-11T13:13:00.000-08:00

Wow. It's official. My next life adventure will be in Fort Good Hope, Northwest Territories, Canada. Who woulda thunk it?? I started out looking for a TEFL job across the ocean...in hot climates...like Guatemala! And now, I'm headed to the Arctic Circle! Well, like I said once before, one never knows where doors will open. Or, as my Grandpa used to say, "If you throw enough shit against the wall, eventually some of it will stick." And mine stuck on the NWT! lol. I'll be working with Frontiers Foundation on a recreation program. And again I say, wow!

I'll be blogging all the way there and back, so keep in touch for my Northern adventures.

Five things I'm obsessed with right now

2010-03-10T10:01:00.001-08:00

Maurice: It appears that this is becoming a regular Wednesday feature...

1. The Northwest Territories, Canada. Since this may very well be where I'm headed for my next adventure, I'm reading everything I can on the subject!!

2. Bon Iver/Justin Vernon. If you have not heard his music, find it now and listen! My significant other and I are headed to see Justin in Cincinnati at the end of March. I fear my s.o. may just pee his pants with excitement.

3. PassiveAgressiveNotes. Almost as funny as regretsy.com...almost. Check it out for a giggle or two when you're feeling crappy.

4. South Park Season 13. My friend recently sent this to me (thank you Wynne!) and it's so perfect for those 'turn off your brain and veg' times that I love! And c'mon, it's South Park!

5. Blogs, blogging, my blog, your blog, finding new blogs. I guess you could say I'm into the whole blogging thing.

Photo for Tuesday

2010-03-09T16:24:00.000-08:00

Here's a slightly odd yet unique photo, for all you slightly odd and unique followers...who I love!! I took this at a puppet museum in Salzburg, Austria.

I'm gonna be published!

2010-03-08T10:51:00.000-08:00

Today I've been working on the final edits for my first "real" published magazine piece for avenue magazine. And it's pretty darn exciting since I've always wanted to write for magazines (BUST magazine is the dream!) I've been published before, but usually it was tied to my job or a first-person opinion piece. This is my first official article. It's about parkour in Edmonton. Here are a couple shots I took so you can get the idea of what parkour actually is.

and in other thoughts...

Simplicity:

absence of complication/moments of breath with ease
I want to share them all with you.

This photo is from www.etsy.com/littlegraypixel. I won a giveaway on her blog and absolutely love her stuff!! Visit her shop and buy her stuff. :) Happy Monday!

Winding down the weekend

2010-03-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

Well, it's looking more and more likely that I'll be heading to the Northwest Territories for my next adventure! Hard to believe!! This morning I had an amazing chat with Anouk - a gal from Belgium who is already up there working. She told me all about the community and what I'd be doing (working on a recreation program). Nothing is set in stone yet however (of course). But I cannot wait till things are confirmed.

This weekend I also helped my sister pick out her wedding outfit! What she's wearing is a huge secret, so I can't even post what kind of outfit it is. And in spite of the fact that I really cannot stand the whole "wedding fuss/traditions/etiquette" insanity, it was a real thrill to be there for her big choice.

Maurice: "The truth about stories is that that's all we are."

I was never very good at telling stories, but I always wanted to be. My latest read is "The Truth about Stories" by Thomas King. A wonderful little book that illustrates how stories are the key to, and only hope for, human understanding.

Holy Frick! I was on the front page of Etsy!!

2010-03-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

And I didn't even know it!! Wow. My shop was featured. It was actually featured on Etsy's front page. I'm so stunned I don't even know what to say! Putting it in my sidebar for all to see. :) And here's a screen capture:

And in other totally selfish news. Here's a sneak peek at a photoshoot I just did. I'm pretty excited cuz I've always wanted to do something like this.
So there's my encouragement to you on this fabulous Friday - pick something you've always wanted to do and do it!! It doesn't have to be big. It can be one of those small, silly things (like a sexy photoshoot!). But you're worth it so do it!

Could it really be the Northwest Territories??

2010-03-04T10:57:00.000-08:00

Well, if you've been following my blog you know that I've been looking for a TEFL job. I taught English in Poland for a year from 2007-2008, loved it, and am now looking to head out into the world again!! I always thought I would be crossing an ocean (I had interviews for schools in Micronesia, Guatemala and Russia). But now an opportunity has come up - waaaaay up - in the North of Canada. I may have the chance to go and work with the community of Fort Providence or Fort Good Hope, NWT, assisting in their school. Wow!! It would be such a challenging experience...but one that I'm getting more and more excited about the more I think about it.

Maurice: Do you believe in synchronicity? (that odd experience where two or more events that are apparently unrelated occur together in a meaningful manner.)

I'd have to say yes, because the day I heard back from the organization I may be working with up there, was the same day I picked up my latest read: "Where the Pavement Ends. Canada's Aboriginal Recovery Movement and the Urgent Need for Reconciliation" The needs of Canada's First Nations are so numerous and seem so huge. Would I really be able to help in some small way? Am I really headed to the Northwest Territories??
Only time will tell.

5 things I'm obsessed with right now

2010-03-03T08:24:00.001-08:00

I obsess. These obsessions come and go, but when I'm into something I'm REALLY into it.
Here are 5 current ones:

1. Making art with vintage paper. It's like I'm a kid again, only now I can cut and paste much better.

2. Books about "Africa". I don't really like using the generalization "Africa" to describe such a vast and diverse continent. Nevertheless, the Congo, Libya and Nigeria are 3 countries I've read about recently.

3. Lady Gaga. Yes, I admit it. She's just so outrageous I can't not look! And "Bad Romance" is a fun song to dance to ok?! (why do I feel so ashamed??)

4. "Bones" the TV show starring Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, and (my fave) Michaela Conlin. I won't try to describe it here...watch it yourself!

5. And, well, looking for the next TEFL job I guess. Sending my stuff out into the world and prayin that the right door will open. (p.s. I got this image from www.etsy.com/pixelwildchild it matched so well how I'm feeling about the job hunt today. Visit her shop the stuff is gorgeous!)

A Canadian thought for the day

2010-03-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

A thought to start the week.

Maurice: How ‘bout that men’s hockey win eh?

Yes, Canada’s men won the big gold medal game against the U.S. and suddenly there’s an explosion of patriotism in the true north…and I just don’t really get it. Yes, it was a tense game, hard played, the perfect ending to a wonderful Vancouver Olympics etc…But a gold medal in hockey is not why I love my country. Here’s an excerpt from a piece I wrote for www.worldpulse.com, the focus was “Land: My Story”:

Concrete towers and asphalt roads dot my horizon. Land, as an organic, life-giving entity doesn’t seem to correlate with my 9-5 office job. I am a city girl. I’ve always lived in large urban centres, where pockets of land are set aside for recreation. I’ve never had to gather crops or water fields, and my income has never been dependent on the weather.
However, when I think about the land of my country, Canada, a vastly different picture emerges. I see strength, families bundling up against -40 degree Manitoba blizzards without batting an eye. I ponder struggle, what are the true implications of the battle for Aboriginal treaty rights? I envision beauty, friends sharing a day’s end in front of the most beautiful Saskatchewan sunset. And I contemplate conflict, is producing crude oil from Alberta’s tar sands really the greatest of environmental crimes?
I guess these few examples from my “home and native land” speak to the nature of land itself – a living, dynamic, complex organism. Forever giving and taking, being taken from and given to. And this realization is where, under fluorescent office light, I can find meaning. Because with this awareness comes a certainty that cannot be ignored. I must always respect my country and cherish her land. And I must never take my home for granted.

New blog background

2010-02-25T09:41:00.000-08:00

Trying out a new look for the blog. I don't know if I've hit on "me" yet...but I kinda like this one.
And here's a new etsy artist I discovered today. Love her style! www.babayagada.etsy.com

Turning Japanese

2010-02-24T11:14:00.000-08:00

Usually when I search for art I am not immediately drawn to the Japanese style. Yes, Kokeshi dolls are cute and Koi Fish can make beautiful tattoos, but it's generally not my first choice...
However, I am currently reading this amazing book about Princess Masako:
A book that came to be banned in Japan (it is only now being published there) it steals a look into the mysterious world of the Japanese royal family and details the pressure that the Royal Household Agency placed on the princess to produce a male heir. "A thoroughly modern woman in collision with an ancient system." Its fascinating. I love this kind of story. Sooo...

Maurice: So?

I put together some fun finds from Etsy shops - paintings and photos, Japanese themed art I can get behind - in honour of my current read. Enjoy!

Monday Mojo

2010-02-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

Maurice: Whatcha got for the morning mojo?

The latest book I'm reading, "The White Tiger" by Aravind Adiga. It took me awhile to get into this one, but now that I am, I highly recommend it. Set in modern day India, against a backdrop of development and depravity, it tells the story of servant Balram Halwai; how he came to be a success in life - having nothing but his own wits to help him along.

Maurice: "Never make someone a priority when they only make you an option."

One of my favorite artists of all time is Saskatchewan born Wilf Perreault, and today's weather here in Edmonton reminds me of his work. Stunning details in light and colour make me stare at his paintings for hours:

Vintage paper, ads, images, photos, stamps etc. That's what I've been using lately to create some of my own artwork...while I watch the TV show "Bones" on DVD - my idea of the perfect evening! Add a glass or two of Chardonnay and it doesn't get much better.

I'm still waiting to hear from Guatemala! Fingers and toes crossed!! Have a great week.

From Saskatchewan to Guatemala

2010-02-19T20:10:00.000-08:00

Maurice: Well...where have you been?

I was in Saskatchewan for a week hanging with some pals.
I used to live in Regina, spent 5 years there, and it always feels kind of weird when I return. So much happened in my life while I was there and then I up and left it all to live and work in Poland! I don't really know why it feels so surreal to return to a place you were once so immersed in...

So I finally had an interview with the school in Guatemala!! It went quite well considering some technical difficulties (we were skyping). Fingers crossed. I would love the chance to teach there. The other solid possibility right now is in Russia. The quest continues...

I've posted some new things in my etsy shop. Like this funky, retro ad:

Very happy with the new camera so far.

Maurice: And your latest read?

"I, Rigoberta Menchu" Inspired by my latest potential teaching gig, I picked up this book the other day. So far it is a pretty good read. It tells the life story of peasant woman Rigoberta Menchu who grew up in an Indian community in Guatemala. Chapters are divided into themes such as "Marriage", "The family", "Life in the Community" with each one detailing the community's customs and traditions for that theme. There is a lot of repetition and many details become redundant. Yet it is an very interesting look at the culture of an entire, often forgotten, people.

Another Great Read!...and Guatemala?

2010-02-11T08:26:00.000-08:00

I'm halfway through "The 19th Wife" by David Ebershoff. It is a very interesting and compelling read. Part history, part mystery Ebershoff weaves his story back and forth between the roots of nineteenth century polygamy, the Mormon faith, and a modern day polygamist murder. I'm finding the information on Ann Eliza Young (19th wife of Brigham Young, prophet and leader of the early Mormon Church) to be the most interesting and absorbing.

So the TEFL job search continues! Now, a position in Guatemala City looks to be the most promising. I am scheduling an interview with the school for next week. What an experience that would be! Fingers crossed.

Maurice: And our smile for the day?

Comes from an etsy artist who I love.
Fall Down Tree.

Monday Mojo

2010-02-08T07:51:00.000-08:00

Maurice: Yup, it’s time for some morning mojo ‘round here.

Today has not started out well. I found out that I didn’t get the teaching job in Micronesia. Therefore, it’s back to hunting and applying and interviewing and hoping…I still have possible opportunities in Guatemala, Poland and Russia, but nothing for sure yet…I’m definitely in need of some mojo.

Thankfully I have an awesome pal who is always ready and able to supply some. I was having a crappy day on the weekend (why so much crap in my life lately?!) and asked said pal Justin if he would mind texting me some mojo. He sent me the following story which made me laugh and then smile for a good half hour after. Thanks Justin! Mwah!!

"Once upon a time there was this giant turtle that had a bad case of hemroids. He went to his mom’s house to borrow her friggin laser-gun-flame-thrower cuz he figured he could just lance the fuckers right off. Well, turns out that the weapon was on the marshmallow cooker setting, so when he went to fix himself up he managed to get s'mores all over his ass and this attracted a large colony of ants that in turn ate away at his ass leaving his body in wreckage only fit for the life of a pirate. He left his home with two wooden legs and a box of saltines and a family size jar of peanut butter to sail the seas…You could say he was an anti-butt pirate. Ha! Get it? He’s an anti-butt pirate cuz the ants ate his butt right off…Well I thought it was funny…"

I feel better already! Tank Girl also gives me mojo. Peh-peh-peh-POW!!!

It's the Little Things

2010-02-05T10:28:00.000-08:00

It’s the little things…they always make my day. A kind note, a surprise compliment and today, it was an awesome convo from another etsy seller. I sell a lot of vintage ads from old magazines. I love the often beautifully illustrated artwork or humorously outdated messages. I recently sold an ad to FishInTheAtticStudio and this is what she created from it:

I find not just the card amazing, but the connection. From Life Magazine to my shop to buyer/creator to her shop…now complete the circle and buy her card!! Yup, little things like this always make my day!
Maurice: And things like this make mine…

Vancouver!!

2010-02-03T10:29:00.000-08:00

Last week/weekend I was in Vancouver visiting Wynne, one of my uber fantastic best friends, and Lorne, her…umm…boyfriend without the label “boyfriend” (what is it with guys and the word “boyfriend”?!!?...but I digress).

Vancouver is a pretty amazing city. It’s got an active enough vibe without being too stressed out. It was my first time really seeing a lot of the city and I loved it. Wynne lives in East Vancouver, and the day I arrived there was a shooting in her neighbourhood. She is convinced it happened because nothing ever happens, so if it was going to happen it would happen when she had a guest. Here's a pic from the news:

Two hilights: Budgie’s Burritos – yummy veggie, organic food and
C’est La Vie – a wicked consignment clothing store on Main St.
Of course the battery in my new camera died and I forgot to bring the charger. *sigh*
The Olympic Machine wasn't really obvious on the streets yet...I'm sure it'll be insane very soon. Regardless, it was so much fun!! Thanks Wynne and Lorne.

"An Imperfect Offering"

2010-01-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

Well I’m halfway through “An Imperfect Offering” by James Orbinski. He has worked with MSF (Doctors without Borders) in Somalia, Afghanistan, Rwanda and many other countries. Books like this are always painful for me to read. I let my emotions feel the stories that are told. Also, they always bring so many questions to my mind, and they always fuel my desire to DO something. Not that I feel like I can do a lot, but I’m a doer by nature and often long to help those less fortunate that I am.

I just finished reading the section of Orbinski’s book devoted to his time in Rwanda during the genocide…my mind just goes so many places. How is humanity capable of such evil? What kind of deep seeded fear and hatred would drive people to be so rationally cruel? Why did nations comfortably sit back and debate the term “genocide” while thousands were being slaughtered?

Why is it that something like this would never happen in Canada? Many would say it’s because we are a “civilized” society brought up under the rule of law. We are, for the most part, tolerant of other peoples’ beliefs and respectful of our leaders and political system. Tribal hatreds do not exist in Canada as they do in many African countries. The intricacies of clans and sub-clans, and the divides therein, are completely foreign to us. Our people were not kidnapped and sold into slavery by colonial powers. Also we are not a country devastated by poverty. So are these the things that fuel genocide? And if so, how can the roots of it be stopped before they are even planted? Is this even possible? I guess some would say it has to begin in the education system, so children and young adults can learn that racism, hatred and killing are not an answer. But who is going to teach them? And who is going to teach those are can’t afford to attend school? Is there a generation of Africans ready and willing to take up the cause of educating their countries’ children? Because I believe it has to come from within. It is all well and good for Westerners to go to Africa to offer aid. But without those born and raised on its soil desiring change, how will it ever come about?

These are just some of my jumbled thoughts. I could go on…

But on a lighter note. I bought this great piece of art from an amazing photographer on etsy. Although it feels a bit strange sharing this after what I just wrote. And ironically the piece is titled, "The evil that men do"

Maurice: So many dichotomies in this life…

New Camera and New Lists

2010-01-25T09:10:00.000-08:00

Well, I took the plunge and bought a new camera!

A Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR. I’m still not really sure what that means, and, as usual, I am suffering from post-purchase anxiety and not quite sure if it’s exactly what I need. Aside from wicked travel pics, I bought the camera because I need better shots of the products in my Etsy shop. I’m still playing and learning all the camera settings. I think the pics will be better. But I am a perfectionist when it comes to this type of thing. So I really don’t know yet.

Maurice: And other news…

Lists! I am starting to make lists of what I need to do before I go overseas (even tho I haven’t heard definitively from anywhere yet).
- Ask my friend Shawn if I can store my stuff in his big, empty basement
-Visit the doctor and find out what the best thing to do about my prescription meds is
- Visit the dentist for a check up
- Find out what vaccinations I’ll need (if it is Micronesia I’m going to)
- Find out where I can buy insurance – something I admit to not doing when I went to Poland…which I think I’ll do this time just for my poor mother’s sake!
And the list goes on.

I am now reading “An Imperfect Offering: Humanitarian Action in the Twenty-First Century” by James Orbinski, who helped establish the Canadian chapter of Doctors Without Borders/MSF. Good so far, just started.

Teaching English Too

2010-01-22T11:14:00.000-08:00

I guess the other thing I can talk about in this blog is something else I know a lot about - teaching English overseas.

Maurice: A digression already?

Yup. I have, once again, begun the process of finding a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Langauge) job. I taught English in Poland 2007-2008 and it was the best experience of my life. Financial issues forced me back to Canada, but now I’m ready to go again! Had an interview for a job in Micronesia that went very, very well. Will be setting up an interview with a school in Guatemala. Even going to contact my old school in Poland to see if there are any positions.

So…where’s the best place to start if you’re interested in doing something like this? The Internet. I spend hours searching TEFL job sites for positions. Google “TEFL jobs”, “ESL employment”, “ESL jobs” or any combination thereof and you’ll get a lot of hits. Some of my favourite sites have been:

eslteachersboard.com
eslemployment.com
transitionsabroad.com
tefl.com

Or, go directly to the schools. This site: eslbase.com has links to schools all over the world. If you have the time and patience, check the schools’ sites directly to see if they are hiring or accepting resumes. Many schools have large revolving doors when it comes to teachers, and will keep your info on file for when they have openings.

Use your discretion. If a job ad has too little information, it’s probably not worth your time. If it has too much, it’s probably too good to be true. You can also google a school’s name plus “blacklist” to find out if they have been discussed in a negative light on any forums.

Above all else, apply, apply, apply. Send your stuff everywhere!! I don’t have a TEFL certificate and more and more schools are requiring this…but not all of them! Get your stuff out there and you are bound to get something!

Maurice: What are you reading right now?

“Jackdaws” by Ken Follett. It’s pretty good – a Fiction spy story set during WWII.

Black Wednesday

2010-01-20T20:35:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our very first blog post [pan across a wide, vast and empty auditorium]. I’m not sure why I decided to start a blog. Maybe the answer will eventually come to me. Maybe not.
For our inaugural posting I’m going to reference Black:
First, “Blackwater” by Jeremy Scahill.
I read a lot of books. A LOT. And no book has ever made me as angry or dumbfounded as this one. The subtitle is, “The rise of the world’s most powerful mercenary army.” An army for hire is the premise…headed by a Christian fundamentalist…hired by the U.S. government for contracts worth billions of dollars...paid for by U.S. taxpayers. Now, maybe I’m just ignorant and people already know about this, but something seems so wrong about the fact that one of the most powerful players in the War on Terror is a private army. Accountable to…who?
It also made me depressingly sad. As long as there are billions of dollars to be made from the war machine, our world will never be at peace. Peace is not economically viable for these companies. It’s a thought-provoking and well-written book. Read it.

Here’s one of my favourite Black and White photos. I took it in Sibiu, Romania in 2008. And speaking of cameras, I’m off to buy a new one this weekend. Buying new gadgets is usually a bit overwhelming for me, because there is always so much information and so many options. However, I decided to bypass the Best Buys and Future Shops and head right to the experts – McBain Cameras in Edmonton. Should be an adventure!

Maurice: Tell me something about a goat.

Well, one healthy dairy goat can yield up to 250 litres of milk annually to provide essential protein and life-changing income…just sayin.

And just cuz I said I would…here's a Black item in my etsy vintage shop. Fun, funky, black box purse.

Maurice: Baa baa black sheep have you any wool?

There's always a black sheep in the family isn't there.
I lived in Poland for a year, visited Czestochowa, home of the Black Madonna.

Maurice: Anything else?

Nope. That's it for now.