Our arrival!

The internet is very spotty, but I will try to post this anyway. 

Our trip is going amazing!

We were treated to dinner at Ronnie and Elaine’s house on Sunday night after a 9 hour drive from Winnipeg. We really got to know one another and share many of our thoughts and experiences. It was quite an evening. One none of us will forget, and we will hold each other in a special place because of it. 

Students got to have tea made on the fire in a big kettle, and banana boats roasted on the open flame. They were a HUGE hit. Fawn is the best cook!
What a greeting Monday morning, thank you Anna MacKay! What a lovely way to welcome us. I don't think the students knew what to do. It was so incredible. And even Shirley Robinson, Vice Chief of Pimicikmak Cree Nation come to welcome us and say a few words. 

Monday morning we were greeted in the main foyer of Mikisew School by ALL of the staff and students, after which they formed a receiving line and shook all of our hands. Our students commented that they’ve never shook so many hands. It was so touching and lovely. After this we were given a tour of the school. We visited the outdoor education teachers class who showed us traps, photos of animals they’ve caught including lynx, and frozen muskrats. We also went to the music room and shop where they are currently making a special racing canoe. 

We were then invited to the band office by the assistant Chief Shirley Robinson. She gave us a tour of the office, and we were welcomed by several elected band members. We were also presented with gifts of hats and flags for Pimicikamak Cree Nation. So honoured to be here. Students were given flags, and hats it was very thoughtful and we were incredibly honoured. 

 Erin was such a great host, she gave us a tour with Keston showing us the school they once attended.

In the afternoon we went to Otter Nelson River School where he children from nursery school to grade 8 attend. It has a population of 1200 students and they are running out of space. Our students were asking them to show us Toronto on the map and were so sweet with them all. 

We had dinner back at the school Monday night, and we’re then treated to some amazing fiddle music and jig dancing. Kate, our Humberside student, played a song for us as well which they really enjoyed!  Music knowledge exchanged as I think Kevin the fiddle player and Kate both want to learn each other’s songs.

Students then played volleyball against Mikisew students and some religious group visiting from Winnipeg. A couple of our students ended up playing on the winning team. Abby and Raven know their sports! The Mikisew students were asking for a re-match! 

Everyone was very tired by the end of the first day, and quickly fell asleep once we returned to our hotel rooms at the 24/7 in town.