July 27
Man. What a hot day. Twenty-seven degrees and muggy. It's the hottest day we've experienced all summer. The heat sure makes the bugs disappear. The kids slept late and Keegan and Bronwyn got to the job site after 11 am. All the excitement and work started to catch up with them. Ike couldn't believe he was working in heat like this in the North.
The kitchen closed at the school yesterday, and Michele was glad her cooking duties were over. She decided to read in the heat and have some down time. Ike and Michele wanted me to say hi to everyone at home. They wouldn't say they are having a holiday, but they are having an adventure.
The kids had swimming lessons today, and Michele took Ezra over. He cried in distress about having to go, but Michele said he jumped right in and was very brave. Naomi did well moving into the class with Diana, and Josiah is always game. Immediately after, the youth swim started. Bronwyn took a break from working to take Evangeline. She was feeling left out. The others went too. Mackenzie tried to keep an eye on Ezra and Diana and Naomi were swim buddies. I think there were more kids than water in the pool. Evangeline quickly changed her tune from enthusiasm to dismay. I don't think she ever did come to grips with the chaos. Ezra handled himself very maturely. He asked very pleasantly, "Bronwyn, could you take me to a part of the pool where I won't get kicked in the face?
I'm writing this in the middle of the day. It may be my only chance. The school will be locked today from now on, and Internet access might be limited. I will blog when I can.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The Exodus
JULY 26
I gave Estelle a steam shower in the morning to help her chest cold. While I was occupied, Mackenzie took the kids for snack time at the school. Upon their return, my jaw dropped. Naomi was still in her nightgown! She’d walked two blocks and sat with the entire crew in her PJ’s. Mackenzie apparently didn’t even notice when they left, but she said Naomi got a compliment on her pretty ‘dress.’
Keegan continued on the drywall, and Bronwyn and two other girls blew insulation in the attic. Bronwyn said it was the most uncomfortable she’s felt in her whole life. She was itchy and sweaty, working under a hot tin roof (It was 24 degrees). Ike said it was a tough, dirty job and was impressed with their effort. When she came to eat, her clothing was covered in fiberglass. Ezra saw her, and ran to her with open arms. I said, a little too insistently, “Ezra, don’t touch her!” Bronwyn joked with me later. “What am I? A leper? Don’t touch! Unclean! Unclean!”
There was an exodus of volunteers after lunch, with only a handful remaining. Lynn turned to me and said, “Well, I guess it’s just you and me, Elaine.” With all our kids, there were still over 20 people for supper, but it sure felt a lot quieter. I packed Estelle around, trying to be helpful, without much success. At least her cough seemed a bit better, but she does want her mommy.
Mackenzie and Josiah played with Ezra, Evangeline, Naomi, and Diana in the school gym all day. Lynn’s mother, Muriel, built a fort out of blue gym mats and chairs. They had a ball with Judah-Ben, Jesse, and Jadynn. Jesses attached several bungee cords together, pulled them way back, then sat on a flat cart and let the bungee cord zip him along the gym floor. The kids all got in on the action. Diana played with Estelle on a blue gym mat, and later on Estelle had a nap on one of the exercise mats. Ezra adores Jesse and follows him around like a lost puppy. Naomi’s enthusiasm waned so she chose to draw pictures instead, and that kept her occupied for two hours!
Bronwyn is in her glory. The girls have been doing the lunch dishes everyday and it takes them a very long time because they sing the entire time. Bronwyn taught them a new song and they practice and practice and practice. The girls also learned a rhythm at camp. They beat it out with their arms and feet at every meal and their table shakes when they pound it out.
Keegan went biking with Joel and then headed right to bed, so I know very little about his day, except that he expressed an interest in learning the guitar. Kurt will be glad to hear that. Bronwyn and Mackenzie sat and gabbed with me in the evening, which is the only reason I can give you the details of their day.
I gave Estelle a steam shower in the morning to help her chest cold. While I was occupied, Mackenzie took the kids for snack time at the school. Upon their return, my jaw dropped. Naomi was still in her nightgown! She’d walked two blocks and sat with the entire crew in her PJ’s. Mackenzie apparently didn’t even notice when they left, but she said Naomi got a compliment on her pretty ‘dress.’
Keegan continued on the drywall, and Bronwyn and two other girls blew insulation in the attic. Bronwyn said it was the most uncomfortable she’s felt in her whole life. She was itchy and sweaty, working under a hot tin roof (It was 24 degrees). Ike said it was a tough, dirty job and was impressed with their effort. When she came to eat, her clothing was covered in fiberglass. Ezra saw her, and ran to her with open arms. I said, a little too insistently, “Ezra, don’t touch her!” Bronwyn joked with me later. “What am I? A leper? Don’t touch! Unclean! Unclean!”
There was an exodus of volunteers after lunch, with only a handful remaining. Lynn turned to me and said, “Well, I guess it’s just you and me, Elaine.” With all our kids, there were still over 20 people for supper, but it sure felt a lot quieter. I packed Estelle around, trying to be helpful, without much success. At least her cough seemed a bit better, but she does want her mommy.
Mackenzie and Josiah played with Ezra, Evangeline, Naomi, and Diana in the school gym all day. Lynn’s mother, Muriel, built a fort out of blue gym mats and chairs. They had a ball with Judah-Ben, Jesse, and Jadynn. Jesses attached several bungee cords together, pulled them way back, then sat on a flat cart and let the bungee cord zip him along the gym floor. The kids all got in on the action. Diana played with Estelle on a blue gym mat, and later on Estelle had a nap on one of the exercise mats. Ezra adores Jesse and follows him around like a lost puppy. Naomi’s enthusiasm waned so she chose to draw pictures instead, and that kept her occupied for two hours!
Bronwyn is in her glory. The girls have been doing the lunch dishes everyday and it takes them a very long time because they sing the entire time. Bronwyn taught them a new song and they practice and practice and practice. The girls also learned a rhythm at camp. They beat it out with their arms and feet at every meal and their table shakes when they pound it out.
Keegan went biking with Joel and then headed right to bed, so I know very little about his day, except that he expressed an interest in learning the guitar. Kurt will be glad to hear that. Bronwyn and Mackenzie sat and gabbed with me in the evening, which is the only reason I can give you the details of their day.
Monday, July 27, 2009
A Day of Rest?
JULY 26
Aaaaah. Sunday morning, a non-work day. In theory. Bronwyn, Mackenzie, and I, packing Estelle, made pancakes and homemade buttermilk syrup for everyone for brunch while Lynn cooked the sausages and prepped everything else. Josiah stayed with the sleeping little guys in the trailer and we communicated with our hand radios. The night before, Keegan stayed with the teenage boys at the Hanthorns and when he woke up, he relieved Jo of his duties so Josiah could flip some pancakes. After the batter was made, Bronwyn had to skip out to practice her violin for church. The syrup was a big hit, and one lady, Esther, was impressed with Josiah and Mackenzie’s pancake flipping.
The worship service was at 1 pm, which is standard here. With people staying up late in the long summer sun, a morning service would not be too practical, or at least not well attended. Last week, the church was framed, this week the sanctuary had drywall, and people commented on the progress. Bronwyn accompanied the praise songs with her violin and a penny whistle, along with Annah, Ruthie, and Paul on guitar, and a man (Don, I believe) with his harmonica. The church was pretty full with people from the project, and we outnumbered the regular church members with all our extra bodies.
Estelle had another horrible coughing fit. It is no fun seeing your baby choking on her own phlegm. She has often had an episode after lying back in her ‘rocking’ chair, so there will be no more of that. I’m kicking up my own probiotic intake and of course, she’s getting chiropractic care, but she is still fighting it. I know it will run its course, just like it did with the other guys, but for those of you so inclined, please keep her in your prayers.
After a wonderful turkey dinner, Keegan and Bronwyn went with the teens to watch some more bike jumping into the lake at the ‘Second Pit,’ as it’s called. Ike and Michele went along to take some pictures, and Paul was there too. Ike and Paul even built a new bike jump for the kids to try. As Ike said, “Well someone has to make sure they don’t break their necks!” The kids never used the jump, though. And to my surprise, both Keegan AND Bronwyn gave it a try, and Michele has some good snapshots. Unfortunately, as I have been doing my blog entry on the school library computer, I won’t be able to include any pictures-yet. Those kids sure know how to make their own fun. Lynn was impressed that at least they had decided to wear life jackets. The teens said the PFD s were multi-functional. Besides being flotation devices, they provide some extra padding, too.
Bronwyn and Keegan barely got themselves dried off before they went back to the Hanthorns with Mackenzie for a teen party. Two of the older boys from Whitehorse are leaving, so Lynn wanted to give them one last hurrah. They ate pizza, looked at Michele’s pictures on the TV, and watched a movie together. I was unsuccessfully trying to get children to sleep, but I did manage to slip over and see some of the photos. Michele came to my trailer afterwards and we prayed over Estelle and chatted until the kids returned, but maybe sleep would have been a better idea, because it was almost 3 am before we saw their faces or our beds.
Aaaaah. Sunday morning, a non-work day. In theory. Bronwyn, Mackenzie, and I, packing Estelle, made pancakes and homemade buttermilk syrup for everyone for brunch while Lynn cooked the sausages and prepped everything else. Josiah stayed with the sleeping little guys in the trailer and we communicated with our hand radios. The night before, Keegan stayed with the teenage boys at the Hanthorns and when he woke up, he relieved Jo of his duties so Josiah could flip some pancakes. After the batter was made, Bronwyn had to skip out to practice her violin for church. The syrup was a big hit, and one lady, Esther, was impressed with Josiah and Mackenzie’s pancake flipping.
The worship service was at 1 pm, which is standard here. With people staying up late in the long summer sun, a morning service would not be too practical, or at least not well attended. Last week, the church was framed, this week the sanctuary had drywall, and people commented on the progress. Bronwyn accompanied the praise songs with her violin and a penny whistle, along with Annah, Ruthie, and Paul on guitar, and a man (Don, I believe) with his harmonica. The church was pretty full with people from the project, and we outnumbered the regular church members with all our extra bodies.
Estelle had another horrible coughing fit. It is no fun seeing your baby choking on her own phlegm. She has often had an episode after lying back in her ‘rocking’ chair, so there will be no more of that. I’m kicking up my own probiotic intake and of course, she’s getting chiropractic care, but she is still fighting it. I know it will run its course, just like it did with the other guys, but for those of you so inclined, please keep her in your prayers.
After a wonderful turkey dinner, Keegan and Bronwyn went with the teens to watch some more bike jumping into the lake at the ‘Second Pit,’ as it’s called. Ike and Michele went along to take some pictures, and Paul was there too. Ike and Paul even built a new bike jump for the kids to try. As Ike said, “Well someone has to make sure they don’t break their necks!” The kids never used the jump, though. And to my surprise, both Keegan AND Bronwyn gave it a try, and Michele has some good snapshots. Unfortunately, as I have been doing my blog entry on the school library computer, I won’t be able to include any pictures-yet. Those kids sure know how to make their own fun. Lynn was impressed that at least they had decided to wear life jackets. The teens said the PFD s were multi-functional. Besides being flotation devices, they provide some extra padding, too.
Bronwyn and Keegan barely got themselves dried off before they went back to the Hanthorns with Mackenzie for a teen party. Two of the older boys from Whitehorse are leaving, so Lynn wanted to give them one last hurrah. They ate pizza, looked at Michele’s pictures on the TV, and watched a movie together. I was unsuccessfully trying to get children to sleep, but I did manage to slip over and see some of the photos. Michele came to my trailer afterwards and we prayed over Estelle and chatted until the kids returned, but maybe sleep would have been a better idea, because it was almost 3 am before we saw their faces or our beds.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Work Hard, Play Hard, Sleep Hard
JULY 25
We woke up to no power. I plugged the space heater in the night before and it tripped the breaker in the daycare. I didn’t get much sleep last night. There’s a husky dog across the street, and he sounds like a wolf howling at the moon. The dog had Diana convinced anyway. I also heard the haunting sound of a loon, which I love. My appreciation of nature, however, does not extend to the ‘bulldogs’ flying around. Those flies are huge and fearsome, and there buzz is nothing compared to their bite, I am told.
Keegan and Bronwyn went back to work. The siding of the church is almost done, and much progress has been made on the kitchen and living quarters. Josiah, Naomi, and Diana went swimming. Kenzie baked a chocolate cake for supper. Ezra had a blast playing at the Hanthorns. Josiah has been the go-to guy, running errands to and fro on his bike. Mackenzie made use of her time with the little ones, teaching them the bible verses she learned at Kamp Klondike. She is a studious one. She even had Evangeline giving it a go. “I am the Good Shepherd. I know my sheep, and my sheep know me.” Except when Evangeline says the last two words, it sounds more like Naomi’s nickname-NOMIE. And since the verse starts off with ‘I am’, Evangeline thinks she is the good shepherd. Lots of deep spiritual truths going on there!
I guess it was a long day for Evangeline, because she fell asleep upright in her chair at the dinner table. Michele helped me cart the kids back to the trailer. She had a good sleep, until 11 pm, that is. Keegan and Bronwyn went to the lake again to wash the drywall and insulation off themselves with a swim, and to watch some more extreme sports. Joel and his friends from Whitehorse went over jumps on their bikes into the lake. Bronwyn hopped in the shower when they came back but just then Annah showed up to invite her, Keegan, and Mackenzie to watch a short sledding movie. We went in the daycare where she and the little guys were. Bronwyn was singing at the top of her lungs in the shower. She was so loud, she couldn’t even hear us calling her name until we shouted. Annah laughed, and then laughed some more, because Ezra, Evangeline, Naomi, and Diana were all running around in their underwear because they were so hot. Not one of our earlier nights.
We woke up to no power. I plugged the space heater in the night before and it tripped the breaker in the daycare. I didn’t get much sleep last night. There’s a husky dog across the street, and he sounds like a wolf howling at the moon. The dog had Diana convinced anyway. I also heard the haunting sound of a loon, which I love. My appreciation of nature, however, does not extend to the ‘bulldogs’ flying around. Those flies are huge and fearsome, and there buzz is nothing compared to their bite, I am told.
Keegan and Bronwyn went back to work. The siding of the church is almost done, and much progress has been made on the kitchen and living quarters. Josiah, Naomi, and Diana went swimming. Kenzie baked a chocolate cake for supper. Ezra had a blast playing at the Hanthorns. Josiah has been the go-to guy, running errands to and fro on his bike. Mackenzie made use of her time with the little ones, teaching them the bible verses she learned at Kamp Klondike. She is a studious one. She even had Evangeline giving it a go. “I am the Good Shepherd. I know my sheep, and my sheep know me.” Except when Evangeline says the last two words, it sounds more like Naomi’s nickname-NOMIE. And since the verse starts off with ‘I am’, Evangeline thinks she is the good shepherd. Lots of deep spiritual truths going on there!
I guess it was a long day for Evangeline, because she fell asleep upright in her chair at the dinner table. Michele helped me cart the kids back to the trailer. She had a good sleep, until 11 pm, that is. Keegan and Bronwyn went to the lake again to wash the drywall and insulation off themselves with a swim, and to watch some more extreme sports. Joel and his friends from Whitehorse went over jumps on their bikes into the lake. Bronwyn hopped in the shower when they came back but just then Annah showed up to invite her, Keegan, and Mackenzie to watch a short sledding movie. We went in the daycare where she and the little guys were. Bronwyn was singing at the top of her lungs in the shower. She was so loud, she couldn’t even hear us calling her name until we shouted. Annah laughed, and then laughed some more, because Ezra, Evangeline, Naomi, and Diana were all running around in their underwear because they were so hot. Not one of our earlier nights.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Work, Eat, Play, Sleep
JULY 24
Bronwyn was raring to go in the morning to help out at the church. She was put on insulation duty. Keegan was out there, too, helping Ike and doing drywall. Bronwyn is having such a good time here that she said if she had known what fun McPhoo would be, she probably wouldn't have enjoyed Inuvik so much. Mackenzie made some bread in our breadmaker so she could contribute. I have been pretty much useless, juggling a baby and little ones, without the assistance of my older two. A very humbling experience. But Josiah and Mackenzie, and even Diana, are doing all they can to help out.
All started swimming lessons. Ezra and Naomi were first. The instructor warned me beforehand that he really didn't like teaching younger children because he has to be nice to them, but he was the only one qualified. He needn't have warned me; he was great. Naomi was like a fish in the water, and the instructor said she needs to be bumped up a level. Ezra was scared to start because of the depth, but in no time he was paddlilng all over the place. He swam, with a lifejacket. over 5 lengths of the small pool. But maybe he was just trying to keep warm. Their lesson was a whole hour and their teeth were sure chattering when they were done. Diana went next with Jesse, then Josiah with Judah. The pool is so close to the school where we eat, that they just walked there by themselves. I have no idea how it went for them. I guess I should find out!
Our big three and the Hanthorn big four were last and all are in agreement that their instructor is great. Bronwyn said she could tell he actually wanted them to learn something, that it wasn't just a job for him. He has been all over the world and he was in New York on 9/11, adminstering first aid. I told the kids they should talk to him about his experiences. He could probably teach them a whole lot more than swimming skills. He loves to teach kids 10 and over because he can teach them so many valuable skills. We'll see what transpires. It's just our 7 kids in the class, so it's almost like private lessons.
Things were ticking along at the job site. Paul was helping Ike with the siding, one man was doing the railing, and many more were inside working on various things, including Keegan and Bronwyn. The building inspector came by, and Ike told the kids it might be a good time for them to take a break! Before we arrived, one of the main organizers of the project, Myrna,fell from some scaffolding and broke her femur. She had to be airlifted to Yellowknife.
We had a sing-along after supper. Michele had made yummy meatlof. Mackenzie helped with dishes, and spilled a bunch of bleach all over herself. Bronwyn and Ruthie led music on their violin and guitar. They did a good job. Ezra passed out song books to everyone, whether they wanted one or not, or whether they already had one or not. He came back to me and whispered, "Mommy, I am being a good servant handing out books." Naomi was tired of singing, so she played in the gym. Evangeline sat on Annah's lap and then alone on a chair, mouthing sounds to the music. We had a prayer and sharing time and it was very nice. One fellow commented how impressed he was with the teens. He said they were such a good bunch, who also knew how to work. Then we were off to bed, and it is amazing how much quicker and earlier everyone is falling asleep. Hooray!
Bronwyn was raring to go in the morning to help out at the church. She was put on insulation duty. Keegan was out there, too, helping Ike and doing drywall. Bronwyn is having such a good time here that she said if she had known what fun McPhoo would be, she probably wouldn't have enjoyed Inuvik so much. Mackenzie made some bread in our breadmaker so she could contribute. I have been pretty much useless, juggling a baby and little ones, without the assistance of my older two. A very humbling experience. But Josiah and Mackenzie, and even Diana, are doing all they can to help out.
All started swimming lessons. Ezra and Naomi were first. The instructor warned me beforehand that he really didn't like teaching younger children because he has to be nice to them, but he was the only one qualified. He needn't have warned me; he was great. Naomi was like a fish in the water, and the instructor said she needs to be bumped up a level. Ezra was scared to start because of the depth, but in no time he was paddlilng all over the place. He swam, with a lifejacket. over 5 lengths of the small pool. But maybe he was just trying to keep warm. Their lesson was a whole hour and their teeth were sure chattering when they were done. Diana went next with Jesse, then Josiah with Judah. The pool is so close to the school where we eat, that they just walked there by themselves. I have no idea how it went for them. I guess I should find out!
Our big three and the Hanthorn big four were last and all are in agreement that their instructor is great. Bronwyn said she could tell he actually wanted them to learn something, that it wasn't just a job for him. He has been all over the world and he was in New York on 9/11, adminstering first aid. I told the kids they should talk to him about his experiences. He could probably teach them a whole lot more than swimming skills. He loves to teach kids 10 and over because he can teach them so many valuable skills. We'll see what transpires. It's just our 7 kids in the class, so it's almost like private lessons.
Things were ticking along at the job site. Paul was helping Ike with the siding, one man was doing the railing, and many more were inside working on various things, including Keegan and Bronwyn. The building inspector came by, and Ike told the kids it might be a good time for them to take a break! Before we arrived, one of the main organizers of the project, Myrna,fell from some scaffolding and broke her femur. She had to be airlifted to Yellowknife.
We had a sing-along after supper. Michele had made yummy meatlof. Mackenzie helped with dishes, and spilled a bunch of bleach all over herself. Bronwyn and Ruthie led music on their violin and guitar. They did a good job. Ezra passed out song books to everyone, whether they wanted one or not, or whether they already had one or not. He came back to me and whispered, "Mommy, I am being a good servant handing out books." Naomi was tired of singing, so she played in the gym. Evangeline sat on Annah's lap and then alone on a chair, mouthing sounds to the music. We had a prayer and sharing time and it was very nice. One fellow commented how impressed he was with the teens. He said they were such a good bunch, who also knew how to work. Then we were off to bed, and it is amazing how much quicker and earlier everyone is falling asleep. Hooray!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Move to McPhoo
July 21-23
Did you think something happened to us? It's been three days and this has been my first chance to catch up. On Tuesday, we did alot of running around, laundry, packing things up, and had a delicious meal with Ike and Michele. We got so much done, that by 11 pm, Ike and Michele suggested ,"Why don't we just get on the road?" So just like that we left.
We said goodbye to Vern and we were on our way. We drove half an hour out of town to the Gwich'in Territorial Campground and camped beside beautiful Campbell Lake under a brilliant orange and pink sunset. Bronwyn and Mackenzie slept in Ike and Michele's trailer, as they've been doing since the Johannsons got here. Estelle sat on the bed, just staring out the window. I think she was enthralled by the beautiful view herself.
We woke up on the 22nd and Ike and Michele and our two girls were already gone. We hit the road and arrived in McPhoo at 3 pm. It was so good to see Lynn and all the kids. Some of the siding is on the church now and the Mennonite crew had stayed up until 5 am to finish installing the kitchen cabinets before they left. Over 15 people have left in the last 2 days. The crew is getting a little lean, and it's good that Ike is back, I think. From my vantage point, Ike appears to be putting the remainder of the siding on himself. More people are working on the interior. Michele is back working her magic in the kitchen.
Kurt and I tried to get organized, figuring out where to park the trailer. Right now, we are parked next to the daycare, beside Ike and Michele, and the owner was gracious enough to allow us access to the water and bathroom. All the girls, save Estelle, and Ezra are going to sleep there. What a blessing! A copious amount of available water is a comfort, considering all the unforeseen spills and accidents that are sure to come. We ate supper with everyone and during the sing-along time, Kurt and the kids did a few numbers-except for Naomi, who just wasn't in the mood. Kurt packed his bag for his next job and the day was quickly over.
This morning, we got up early. REALLY! We were up at 7 am, and Kurt and I left the kids sleeping and headed to the school so Kurt could catch a ride with Paul back to Inuvik. Kurt is headed for Tuk, then back to Banks Island, until mid-August. We might see him briefly then, or it could be a long two months before he returns. I hope it's the former. Keegan was an early bird too, and moved 24 sheets of drywall.
I watched the small Hanthorn children this morning. Bronwyn got involved, too, and two of the men lowered her into a water tank so she could clean it. Mackenzie is itching to do something big and important, but the children are not allowed in the kitchen, so she is being helpful wherever she can. She entertained alot of kids today.
After lunch, I took Ezra, Naomi, Diana, and Josiah swimming with 3 of Lynn's kids, and another lady, Cara Lee (imagine that, Cara!), brought hers. The pool here is tiny. The building is not heated and the water is only 3 feet deep from end to end. Ezra was frazzled because he couldn't touch the bottom anywhere, and despite Josiah's best efforts to soothe him and encourage him, and Ezra's best efforts to remain calm, I decided he had had enough.
The kids played at the Hanthorns' while I tried to do some tidying. Estelle was fussing, so Lynn 'pushed' me out the door so I could give Estelle a nap in the trailer. She slept for two hours. She had a horrible coughing fit at supper last night, and I think a few people were fearful for her recovery.
The Kure kids and the Hanthorns are having a great time together. Josiah biked around with Jesse and Judah-Ben, Keegan played a strategy game with Ruth, Bronwyn went with Annah and Sarah to watch Joel's buddy do a flip in the lake (on a bike?), Jadynn adores Estelle, and all of them have been running around and playing games in the gym. I think the kids love it here already. I might need a little more time to adjust to the change- new location, absent husband, and trying to keep tabs on my kids. But then, when have I ever accepted change quickly and gracefully? Well, here's my chance.
Did you think something happened to us? It's been three days and this has been my first chance to catch up. On Tuesday, we did alot of running around, laundry, packing things up, and had a delicious meal with Ike and Michele. We got so much done, that by 11 pm, Ike and Michele suggested ,"Why don't we just get on the road?" So just like that we left.
We said goodbye to Vern and we were on our way. We drove half an hour out of town to the Gwich'in Territorial Campground and camped beside beautiful Campbell Lake under a brilliant orange and pink sunset. Bronwyn and Mackenzie slept in Ike and Michele's trailer, as they've been doing since the Johannsons got here. Estelle sat on the bed, just staring out the window. I think she was enthralled by the beautiful view herself.
We woke up on the 22nd and Ike and Michele and our two girls were already gone. We hit the road and arrived in McPhoo at 3 pm. It was so good to see Lynn and all the kids. Some of the siding is on the church now and the Mennonite crew had stayed up until 5 am to finish installing the kitchen cabinets before they left. Over 15 people have left in the last 2 days. The crew is getting a little lean, and it's good that Ike is back, I think. From my vantage point, Ike appears to be putting the remainder of the siding on himself. More people are working on the interior. Michele is back working her magic in the kitchen.
Kurt and I tried to get organized, figuring out where to park the trailer. Right now, we are parked next to the daycare, beside Ike and Michele, and the owner was gracious enough to allow us access to the water and bathroom. All the girls, save Estelle, and Ezra are going to sleep there. What a blessing! A copious amount of available water is a comfort, considering all the unforeseen spills and accidents that are sure to come. We ate supper with everyone and during the sing-along time, Kurt and the kids did a few numbers-except for Naomi, who just wasn't in the mood. Kurt packed his bag for his next job and the day was quickly over.
This morning, we got up early. REALLY! We were up at 7 am, and Kurt and I left the kids sleeping and headed to the school so Kurt could catch a ride with Paul back to Inuvik. Kurt is headed for Tuk, then back to Banks Island, until mid-August. We might see him briefly then, or it could be a long two months before he returns. I hope it's the former. Keegan was an early bird too, and moved 24 sheets of drywall.
I watched the small Hanthorn children this morning. Bronwyn got involved, too, and two of the men lowered her into a water tank so she could clean it. Mackenzie is itching to do something big and important, but the children are not allowed in the kitchen, so she is being helpful wherever she can. She entertained alot of kids today.
After lunch, I took Ezra, Naomi, Diana, and Josiah swimming with 3 of Lynn's kids, and another lady, Cara Lee (imagine that, Cara!), brought hers. The pool here is tiny. The building is not heated and the water is only 3 feet deep from end to end. Ezra was frazzled because he couldn't touch the bottom anywhere, and despite Josiah's best efforts to soothe him and encourage him, and Ezra's best efforts to remain calm, I decided he had had enough.
The kids played at the Hanthorns' while I tried to do some tidying. Estelle was fussing, so Lynn 'pushed' me out the door so I could give Estelle a nap in the trailer. She slept for two hours. She had a horrible coughing fit at supper last night, and I think a few people were fearful for her recovery.
The Kure kids and the Hanthorns are having a great time together. Josiah biked around with Jesse and Judah-Ben, Keegan played a strategy game with Ruth, Bronwyn went with Annah and Sarah to watch Joel's buddy do a flip in the lake (on a bike?), Jadynn adores Estelle, and all of them have been running around and playing games in the gym. I think the kids love it here already. I might need a little more time to adjust to the change- new location, absent husband, and trying to keep tabs on my kids. But then, when have I ever accepted change quickly and gracefully? Well, here's my chance.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Visitors Popping By and Listening In
JULY 20
We had a nice morning. We puttered around and had breakfast. Naomi and Diana soon found their way to Michele and Ike’s trailer to draw pictures. Kurt and Ike and Estelle went for a walk down by the river. Yesterday, we heard engines roaring down there, and we could see a couple of people zipping around on the water-on snowmobiles!! It was all fun and games until one ran out of gas, and started to sink. You should have seen the huge billow of smoke.
Bronwyn has been practicing her violin in the laundry room, by the ‘potty house’ (as Ezra calls the campground washrooms). It keeps her out of the bugs and wind but she has found playing there disconcerting, nonetheless. One fellow came in to do laundry, but he never left. He sat down to listen to her, and she could feel his presence behind her. She turned around, and he said, “Don’t mind me. I’m just listening. Keep playing.” Another time, an older lady was sitting on a bench outside the laundry room. A friend came up and Bronwyn overheard her ask, “What are you doing?” The lady replied, “O, I am just listening to that girl play her violin in there.” Bronwyn, unnerved, thought she should find a new spot, but I told her if people were enjoying it, she had more reason to stay put.
Michele and Ike wanted to run some errands and tour around so they took Josiah, Diana, and Naomi along for the ride. While they were gone, we had some unexpected visitors. The mayor of Inuvik and the photographer from the local paper, The Inuvik Drum, showed up. They wanted to welcome us and feature us as ‘Tourists of the Week’ in the newspaper. I guess my acquaintance, Paul, from the pool did tell them about us. They brought an assortment of gifts from the town: a water bottle, a camping water bag, key chain, pins, posters, two T-shirts, 2 bags, a promotional video of the Dempster Highway (featuring all the places we’ve been), and a 2-for-1 coupon for an Arctic River Boat Tour. They took our names and our picture, and left. Too bad for the three who missed it. Kurt will have to pick up a paper on Thursday when he comes back here for work. We told Ike and Michele they should use the boat coupon, so tomorrow they are going to try and arrange a tour.
Later in the day, a group of local kids came and did jumps with their bikes on our hills. It is a regular occurrence and causes Josiah quite a bit of stress. "Mom, those kids are in our campsite and they're biking right through!" And Ezra yelled so loud today, I'm sure the boys heard. "MOMMMMMMMM! Those boys are BAAAAAAACK!" We've got a rubber mark all along our driver door where someone got a little too close and dragged their handlebar across as they were going by. It's not too bothersome but I do keep an eye out for Ezra and Evangeline. There is the chance that they might take a wheel to the head if they are not visible. Today, the older boy said to Jo, who was standing on the hill, "Hey little dude, could you move out of the way please?" He did. Josiah decided to take a different course of action today. He took 11 of Mackenzie's freshly baked gingersnap cookies and shared them with the boys. Ah, yes, placate them sugar.
Michele made us a tasty Mexican meal. Then she went for a walk with Kurt and a buggy full of kids. While they were gone, another visitor showed up. Sam Bird, from Calgary, just arrived in Inuvik to work with the same company as Kurt. I met him last time we were here and Kurt has worked with him before. Kurt had invited Sam and his family three times this winter to our house to go skiing, but it never worked out. It was funny to meet him again here, 3500 km from home. Kurt and Michele returned before Sam left, so we all sat outside and visited. When Sam left, we put the little kids to bed and we finished off the evening with Bronwyn playing her violin for Ike and Michele in their trailer, and then a late night movie with the kids.
We had a nice morning. We puttered around and had breakfast. Naomi and Diana soon found their way to Michele and Ike’s trailer to draw pictures. Kurt and Ike and Estelle went for a walk down by the river. Yesterday, we heard engines roaring down there, and we could see a couple of people zipping around on the water-on snowmobiles!! It was all fun and games until one ran out of gas, and started to sink. You should have seen the huge billow of smoke.
Bronwyn has been practicing her violin in the laundry room, by the ‘potty house’ (as Ezra calls the campground washrooms). It keeps her out of the bugs and wind but she has found playing there disconcerting, nonetheless. One fellow came in to do laundry, but he never left. He sat down to listen to her, and she could feel his presence behind her. She turned around, and he said, “Don’t mind me. I’m just listening. Keep playing.” Another time, an older lady was sitting on a bench outside the laundry room. A friend came up and Bronwyn overheard her ask, “What are you doing?” The lady replied, “O, I am just listening to that girl play her violin in there.” Bronwyn, unnerved, thought she should find a new spot, but I told her if people were enjoying it, she had more reason to stay put.
Michele and Ike wanted to run some errands and tour around so they took Josiah, Diana, and Naomi along for the ride. While they were gone, we had some unexpected visitors. The mayor of Inuvik and the photographer from the local paper, The Inuvik Drum, showed up. They wanted to welcome us and feature us as ‘Tourists of the Week’ in the newspaper. I guess my acquaintance, Paul, from the pool did tell them about us. They brought an assortment of gifts from the town: a water bottle, a camping water bag, key chain, pins, posters, two T-shirts, 2 bags, a promotional video of the Dempster Highway (featuring all the places we’ve been), and a 2-for-1 coupon for an Arctic River Boat Tour. They took our names and our picture, and left. Too bad for the three who missed it. Kurt will have to pick up a paper on Thursday when he comes back here for work. We told Ike and Michele they should use the boat coupon, so tomorrow they are going to try and arrange a tour.
Later in the day, a group of local kids came and did jumps with their bikes on our hills. It is a regular occurrence and causes Josiah quite a bit of stress. "Mom, those kids are in our campsite and they're biking right through!" And Ezra yelled so loud today, I'm sure the boys heard. "MOMMMMMMMM! Those boys are BAAAAAAACK!" We've got a rubber mark all along our driver door where someone got a little too close and dragged their handlebar across as they were going by. It's not too bothersome but I do keep an eye out for Ezra and Evangeline. There is the chance that they might take a wheel to the head if they are not visible. Today, the older boy said to Jo, who was standing on the hill, "Hey little dude, could you move out of the way please?" He did. Josiah decided to take a different course of action today. He took 11 of Mackenzie's freshly baked gingersnap cookies and shared them with the boys. Ah, yes, placate them sugar.
Michele made us a tasty Mexican meal. Then she went for a walk with Kurt and a buggy full of kids. While they were gone, another visitor showed up. Sam Bird, from Calgary, just arrived in Inuvik to work with the same company as Kurt. I met him last time we were here and Kurt has worked with him before. Kurt had invited Sam and his family three times this winter to our house to go skiing, but it never worked out. It was funny to meet him again here, 3500 km from home. Kurt and Michele returned before Sam left, so we all sat outside and visited. When Sam left, we put the little kids to bed and we finished off the evening with Bronwyn playing her violin for Ike and Michele in their trailer, and then a late night movie with the kids.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Fashion and Family
JULY 18
We had another swim day. First, we went with the kids and then by ourselves. Trying to get everyone some exercise is an all day affair. It’s no wonder I can’t seem to find the time when we’re at home. Between eating, cleaning up, and swimming, there was not much time for anything else. We did manage to squeeze in a trip to the ice cream stand, however, after our swim. A little counterproductive, I know.
We went to the Arts Festival Fashion Show in the evening. It was not your typical pretentious fashion show. The local people dressed in traditional Inuvialuit, Gwich’in, and Metis dress. Animal lovers beware! They wore coats of muskrat, wolf, beaver, seal, and some had bear fur trim. Bronwyn loved the capes. There was some very interesting jewellery. One necklace was two antlers intertwined. Kurt thought it was hideous. “How can you were that much bone around your neck without looking like a caveman?” Kurt’s favorite item was a muskrat coat with a Delta braid (woven colored fabric). There were lots of ‘Ooh’s and ‘Aah’s when the little kids came out wearing their garb. One little girl came out and we could barely see her face through all the fur!
JULY 19
We walked to church. Ezra and Naomi have been asking all week, “Is it Sunday yet? Are we going to church? Is there Sunday School today?” They REALLY liked the snacks there and couldn’t wait to go back. I wish I could say their desire was because of a more spiritual hunger! Kate, the Sunday School teacher, is a sweetheart, and she actually called my children ‘splendid.” How could I not like a young lady like that?
We zipped back to the trailer, grabbed our swimsuits and some food on the run, and Bronwyn drove us to the pool. Kurt had Estelle floating in the hot pool. He was supporting her just by the neck, and she laid right back with her ears in the water, and by the way she relaxed, I’d say she enjoyed the tranquility. Josiah and Mackenzie swam lengths the past two days, and they both did over 20 lengths. I’d say that’s pretty good for a first try. And if you’ve seen their streamlined bodies, those two were made for swimming.
It was a beautiful sunny day but the mosquitoes must have invited their friends-sandflies. They are such tiny little bugs, but ,boy, do they bite. We don’t even notice we’re being bitten until we find the hunks of coagulated blood, usually around our hairline and behind our ears. And the welts they leave behind are huge. Evangeline had blood streaming from the outer corner of one of her eyes. Ezra panicked when his finger was copiously bleeding; he thought he had injured himself. We’ve been picking bugs out of each other’s hair. It reminded me of watching gorillas, who do the same. However, unlike the apes, we don’t eat the sandflies when we find them! My friend, Lynn, gave me a cute Gwich’in baby bonnet last time we were here. It is very frilly with three layers of lace and I always wondered why the trim was so ostentatious. I think it must be to attract and trap the bugs-not a bad idea. Estelle has been wearing it to protect her vulnerable scalp.
After some coaxing by Kurt, Michele and Ike decided to come back and stay a couple of days. They drove in with their fifth wheel in the afternoon. Keegan is back! He had a busy week, helping out at the job site and hanging out with the Hanthorns in the evening. Michele said he was grinning from ear to ear the entire time. Keegan has decided, emphatically, that he does not like dry walling and working with insulation. He swallowed some fiberglass. He did like helping with the in-floor heating. One night, the local kids built a smudge fire to keep the bugs at bay, and Michele said Keegan was veritably smoked. He played it cool when he got here, and made a beeline for his bed, trying to avoid the exuberance of his siblings. It wasn’t long before he was out, asking for an adjustment and telling us about his week. He can’t wait to go back to McPherson.
Ike and Michele told us about their stint in Fort McPherson. I'm sure glad there were some able-bodied men like Ike, Les, and Elbert to help with the building. Of note,they said Lynn's dad, Wayne, and brother, Todd were exceptional people. At one point, there were more than 60 people there, including a youth ministry team from Okotoks, some Mennonites from La Crete, and others from Edmonton, Ontario, Ohio, and elsewhere. Elbert and Les had an interesting ride up with lots of 'God-incidences', so make sure you ask them about it, if you get the chance. Michele was working in the kitchen, and she wrote a Scripture in calligraphy on a backdrop of fireweed for the Hanthorns. A worship service was held in the new building on Sunday, with a roof overhead, amidst the framed walls.
We ate dinner with Ike and Michele. Ike went fishing on the Nakina River in Northern BC on their way north and we ate one of his salmon. Michele showed us their Dempster Highway pictures and some photos of the church construction in Fort McPherson. Estelle clapped her hands for the first time, spurred on by Michele. Bronwyn and Mackenzie’s beds got rained on last night, so they decided to have a sleepover in Ike and Michele’s fifth wheel. When the little Scottish girl, Kate, had stayed with Ike and Michele, she drew pictures and a note for our kids on their window. That was a nice surprise for them. Estelle has been having a rough time with her cough, sometimes gasping for breath, and she didn’t settle down until 3:30 am.
A note to all of those writing us letters up here Thanks so much. The kids love going to the post office to see if there's any mail for them. We are leaving for Fort McPherson on Tuesday so for any of you still so inclined, please direct any mail there. As a side note, my wonderful sister-in-law, Tanya, sent me a package of books with Michele. A girl after my own heart!
We had another swim day. First, we went with the kids and then by ourselves. Trying to get everyone some exercise is an all day affair. It’s no wonder I can’t seem to find the time when we’re at home. Between eating, cleaning up, and swimming, there was not much time for anything else. We did manage to squeeze in a trip to the ice cream stand, however, after our swim. A little counterproductive, I know.
We went to the Arts Festival Fashion Show in the evening. It was not your typical pretentious fashion show. The local people dressed in traditional Inuvialuit, Gwich’in, and Metis dress. Animal lovers beware! They wore coats of muskrat, wolf, beaver, seal, and some had bear fur trim. Bronwyn loved the capes. There was some very interesting jewellery. One necklace was two antlers intertwined. Kurt thought it was hideous. “How can you were that much bone around your neck without looking like a caveman?” Kurt’s favorite item was a muskrat coat with a Delta braid (woven colored fabric). There were lots of ‘Ooh’s and ‘Aah’s when the little kids came out wearing their garb. One little girl came out and we could barely see her face through all the fur!
JULY 19
We walked to church. Ezra and Naomi have been asking all week, “Is it Sunday yet? Are we going to church? Is there Sunday School today?” They REALLY liked the snacks there and couldn’t wait to go back. I wish I could say their desire was because of a more spiritual hunger! Kate, the Sunday School teacher, is a sweetheart, and she actually called my children ‘splendid.” How could I not like a young lady like that?
We zipped back to the trailer, grabbed our swimsuits and some food on the run, and Bronwyn drove us to the pool. Kurt had Estelle floating in the hot pool. He was supporting her just by the neck, and she laid right back with her ears in the water, and by the way she relaxed, I’d say she enjoyed the tranquility. Josiah and Mackenzie swam lengths the past two days, and they both did over 20 lengths. I’d say that’s pretty good for a first try. And if you’ve seen their streamlined bodies, those two were made for swimming.
It was a beautiful sunny day but the mosquitoes must have invited their friends-sandflies. They are such tiny little bugs, but ,boy, do they bite. We don’t even notice we’re being bitten until we find the hunks of coagulated blood, usually around our hairline and behind our ears. And the welts they leave behind are huge. Evangeline had blood streaming from the outer corner of one of her eyes. Ezra panicked when his finger was copiously bleeding; he thought he had injured himself. We’ve been picking bugs out of each other’s hair. It reminded me of watching gorillas, who do the same. However, unlike the apes, we don’t eat the sandflies when we find them! My friend, Lynn, gave me a cute Gwich’in baby bonnet last time we were here. It is very frilly with three layers of lace and I always wondered why the trim was so ostentatious. I think it must be to attract and trap the bugs-not a bad idea. Estelle has been wearing it to protect her vulnerable scalp.
After some coaxing by Kurt, Michele and Ike decided to come back and stay a couple of days. They drove in with their fifth wheel in the afternoon. Keegan is back! He had a busy week, helping out at the job site and hanging out with the Hanthorns in the evening. Michele said he was grinning from ear to ear the entire time. Keegan has decided, emphatically, that he does not like dry walling and working with insulation. He swallowed some fiberglass. He did like helping with the in-floor heating. One night, the local kids built a smudge fire to keep the bugs at bay, and Michele said Keegan was veritably smoked. He played it cool when he got here, and made a beeline for his bed, trying to avoid the exuberance of his siblings. It wasn’t long before he was out, asking for an adjustment and telling us about his week. He can’t wait to go back to McPherson.
Ike and Michele told us about their stint in Fort McPherson. I'm sure glad there were some able-bodied men like Ike, Les, and Elbert to help with the building. Of note,they said Lynn's dad, Wayne, and brother, Todd were exceptional people. At one point, there were more than 60 people there, including a youth ministry team from Okotoks, some Mennonites from La Crete, and others from Edmonton, Ontario, Ohio, and elsewhere. Elbert and Les had an interesting ride up with lots of 'God-incidences', so make sure you ask them about it, if you get the chance. Michele was working in the kitchen, and she wrote a Scripture in calligraphy on a backdrop of fireweed for the Hanthorns. A worship service was held in the new building on Sunday, with a roof overhead, amidst the framed walls.
We ate dinner with Ike and Michele. Ike went fishing on the Nakina River in Northern BC on their way north and we ate one of his salmon. Michele showed us their Dempster Highway pictures and some photos of the church construction in Fort McPherson. Estelle clapped her hands for the first time, spurred on by Michele. Bronwyn and Mackenzie’s beds got rained on last night, so they decided to have a sleepover in Ike and Michele’s fifth wheel. When the little Scottish girl, Kate, had stayed with Ike and Michele, she drew pictures and a note for our kids on their window. That was a nice surprise for them. Estelle has been having a rough time with her cough, sometimes gasping for breath, and she didn’t settle down until 3:30 am.
A note to all of those writing us letters up here Thanks so much. The kids love going to the post office to see if there's any mail for them. We are leaving for Fort McPherson on Tuesday so for any of you still so inclined, please direct any mail there. As a side note, my wonderful sister-in-law, Tanya, sent me a package of books with Michele. A girl after my own heart!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Rituals are Relished and Rules are Broken
June 16th
The kids woke up to Daddy kisses and hugs, and that sure got them out of bed in a hurry. Estelle didn't even give him the cold shoulder. The reunion immediately put them into 'special occasion' mode, which could only mean one thing-EAT PANCAKES! Josiah did the flipping of the flapjacks. He is eager to try so many things and take on new responsibilities. Nine is such a wonderful age!
Kurt said his work on Johnson's Point was straight forward and easy. That's not something he can say very often! He intends to add his own experience to my blog. That would be good as I couldn't do it justice. I do know he was doing a clean-up for an old oil/gas exploration site from the late 70's, but I'll leave the details to him.
Kurt and I took all the kids swimming-TOGETHER! What a joy to have a second pair of hands. That being said, one can never predict what activities will transpire when Kurt steps on a pool deck. Not one to follow arbitrary rules, it is a rare outing for Kurt not to be reprimanded by the lifeguards, whom he believes love to wield their illusionary power. His antics were limited to letting Ezra go down the waterslide by himself (against the rules, of course,making a grand head-turning splash on his turn down the slide, and having the lifeguard time him as he swam the length of the pool wearing dolphin-kick flippers, which are two flippers fused together.
We picked up two large pizzas on the way home. Sixty-four dollars. Yikes! We enjoyed them in our screened patio, and then I had a short nap. Too short, but bliss! Then Kurt came with me to the adult swim and we swam side by side. The day was done before we knew it. The only thing that would have made it more complete is if Keegan had been with us too. But that should be rectified very soon.
Jaunt to Johnson Point
Hello this is your guest writer Kurt here to relay a little of my not so eventful working adventure to Johnson Point. You may have seen a couple of pictures in the slide show from there. We are essentially moving 23,000m3 of contaminated soil away from the ocean to a more secure spot, some of it needing treatment before disposal. There is also some demolition of 6 bolted storage tanks, site buildings and filling and regrading of old dump sites. I was there to supervise the excavation and treatment of the soil for the contractor E. Grubens Transport.
The strait between Banks Island and Victoria Island was full of ice when I got there in the DC-3 and just about emptied, then plugged up again with sea ice while I was there. We are still waiting for a barge to bring riprap material and some more equipment which was stranded at Holman last year. In spite of the temperature hovering around 0 and the stiff northeasterly wind coming up the strait, there were some hearty flowers blooming. I had to have Elaine send another heavier layer of clothing so I could stay warm while watching them dig up old burn pits and landfill site, looking for hazardous materials.
Everyone stays in a 30 person camp which was full up for the time I was there. Pretty close quarters, and there is a no drugs or alcohol policy, which is strictly adhered too. Not quite... The crew from Tuk required a little talking too regarding the use of recreational drugs in camp, and the lack of respect this shows to everyone. As an example my Rock Truck driver was making frequent stops where the crew was demolishing tanks and I wondered what could he be doing. Then he would come down to where the hoe was waiting patiently to load and bypass us completely then drive behind a pile of soil we had excavated and sit for 2-3 minutes. I believe he was rolling and lighting up. But how obvious... where are you going to hide in a 30ton rock truck in the middle of the Tundra. They had to start inspecting packages sent by wives and girlfriends in Tuk, before sending them to site. The last flight they returned about four "care" packages. Good thing there dark chocolate isn't banned from camp.
Our "night" crew doing the tank demolition had far better weather than the regular shift most days. The wind would stop blowing and the sun would come out, after the rest of us had all gone to bed. I will be heading back there for 10 days to cross-shift for the project superintendent after teaching a HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations) course in Tuk next week. If anyone has an idea on how to make job safety interesting let me know.
The kids woke up to Daddy kisses and hugs, and that sure got them out of bed in a hurry. Estelle didn't even give him the cold shoulder. The reunion immediately put them into 'special occasion' mode, which could only mean one thing-EAT PANCAKES! Josiah did the flipping of the flapjacks. He is eager to try so many things and take on new responsibilities. Nine is such a wonderful age!
Kurt said his work on Johnson's Point was straight forward and easy. That's not something he can say very often! He intends to add his own experience to my blog. That would be good as I couldn't do it justice. I do know he was doing a clean-up for an old oil/gas exploration site from the late 70's, but I'll leave the details to him.
Kurt and I took all the kids swimming-TOGETHER! What a joy to have a second pair of hands. That being said, one can never predict what activities will transpire when Kurt steps on a pool deck. Not one to follow arbitrary rules, it is a rare outing for Kurt not to be reprimanded by the lifeguards, whom he believes love to wield their illusionary power. His antics were limited to letting Ezra go down the waterslide by himself (against the rules, of course,making a grand head-turning splash on his turn down the slide, and having the lifeguard time him as he swam the length of the pool wearing dolphin-kick flippers, which are two flippers fused together.
We picked up two large pizzas on the way home. Sixty-four dollars. Yikes! We enjoyed them in our screened patio, and then I had a short nap. Too short, but bliss! Then Kurt came with me to the adult swim and we swam side by side. The day was done before we knew it. The only thing that would have made it more complete is if Keegan had been with us too. But that should be rectified very soon.
Jaunt to Johnson Point
Hello this is your guest writer Kurt here to relay a little of my not so eventful working adventure to Johnson Point. You may have seen a couple of pictures in the slide show from there. We are essentially moving 23,000m3 of contaminated soil away from the ocean to a more secure spot, some of it needing treatment before disposal. There is also some demolition of 6 bolted storage tanks, site buildings and filling and regrading of old dump sites. I was there to supervise the excavation and treatment of the soil for the contractor E. Grubens Transport.
The strait between Banks Island and Victoria Island was full of ice when I got there in the DC-3 and just about emptied, then plugged up again with sea ice while I was there. We are still waiting for a barge to bring riprap material and some more equipment which was stranded at Holman last year. In spite of the temperature hovering around 0 and the stiff northeasterly wind coming up the strait, there were some hearty flowers blooming. I had to have Elaine send another heavier layer of clothing so I could stay warm while watching them dig up old burn pits and landfill site, looking for hazardous materials.
Everyone stays in a 30 person camp which was full up for the time I was there. Pretty close quarters, and there is a no drugs or alcohol policy, which is strictly adhered too. Not quite... The crew from Tuk required a little talking too regarding the use of recreational drugs in camp, and the lack of respect this shows to everyone. As an example my Rock Truck driver was making frequent stops where the crew was demolishing tanks and I wondered what could he be doing. Then he would come down to where the hoe was waiting patiently to load and bypass us completely then drive behind a pile of soil we had excavated and sit for 2-3 minutes. I believe he was rolling and lighting up. But how obvious... where are you going to hide in a 30ton rock truck in the middle of the Tundra. They had to start inspecting packages sent by wives and girlfriends in Tuk, before sending them to site. The last flight they returned about four "care" packages. Good thing there dark chocolate isn't banned from camp.
Our "night" crew doing the tank demolition had far better weather than the regular shift most days. The wind would stop blowing and the sun would come out, after the rest of us had all gone to bed. I will be heading back there for 10 days to cross-shift for the project superintendent after teaching a HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations) course in Tuk next week. If anyone has an idea on how to make job safety interesting let me know.
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Bitter and the Sweet
JULY 16
I took Mackenzie, Josiah, Diana, and Ezra swimming in the morning. Naomi’s been complaining of a tummy ache, Evangeline can always use the sleep, and Bronwyn is on a mission with her journal. Bronwyn has been cutting, pasting, drawing, and writing like nobody’s business. She is going to have quite a memoir by the time we’re home.
Mackenzie is on a mission of her own. She finished The Two Towers today, and is really eating it up. I haven’t been able to read it to the others, because every time I turn around, the book is in her hands. Not that I’m complaining.
I went for my swim early during the public swim time. It was quite a different experience from the adult hour, let me tell you. It was busy and the lane rope wasn’t laid out (even though it usually is). I had to veer away from floating tubes as people jumped and bumped over me, around me, and under me. It felt more like an obstacle course. I purposed to enjoy the challenge. The lifeguard must have seen me sputtering, though, because he pulled out the rope for me. “I feel greedy,” I said. He replied, “It’s better this way. You look like you’re swimming among sharks.” It was better, but still a challenge with the constant waves to swim against. Obstacles only make us stronger!
Vern informed us that the house that burned down had no occupants, so that was good news. On a sadder note, Vern said last week, in the wee hours of the morning,a 14-year old drowned in the lake below our campground. He knew the teen, and lamented the waste of such a young life. To make it even sadder, the exact same thing happened when we visited in 2007. I asked Vern if it was a common occurrence here, and he said "No, 2007 was the last time." How devastating for a small community.
We enjoyed another night at the Arts Festival. ArtCirq (Arctic Circus) from Igloolik, Nunavut performed. A decade ago, the town of 1500 had a suicide rate 4-6 times higher than Montreal. ArtCirq was formed to give children and teenagers a medium to express themselves. They did acrobatics, humorous ‘clowning’ and other things I cannot even describe. The place was packed and the kids loved it. But Ezra and Evangeline were quite distressed since we didn’t have front row seats and made their displeasure known. They were so vocal, I left with them, and Naomi, who still had a stomachache, and Estelle to go to the airport.
Kurt had relayed a message through Mackenzie that his plane would arrive at 9 PM. There was no plane. I went back into town to pick up the others who had been waiting for 20 minutes. Just then, Kurt called to say he wouldn’t be in until much later than he originally thought and told me to wait by the phone. Mackenzie made cookies anticipating his arrival. He finally touched down at 2 am. We taxied some other passengers home and after talking on the deck, and a bike around town, we got to bed at 5 am.
I took Mackenzie, Josiah, Diana, and Ezra swimming in the morning. Naomi’s been complaining of a tummy ache, Evangeline can always use the sleep, and Bronwyn is on a mission with her journal. Bronwyn has been cutting, pasting, drawing, and writing like nobody’s business. She is going to have quite a memoir by the time we’re home.
Mackenzie is on a mission of her own. She finished The Two Towers today, and is really eating it up. I haven’t been able to read it to the others, because every time I turn around, the book is in her hands. Not that I’m complaining.
I went for my swim early during the public swim time. It was quite a different experience from the adult hour, let me tell you. It was busy and the lane rope wasn’t laid out (even though it usually is). I had to veer away from floating tubes as people jumped and bumped over me, around me, and under me. It felt more like an obstacle course. I purposed to enjoy the challenge. The lifeguard must have seen me sputtering, though, because he pulled out the rope for me. “I feel greedy,” I said. He replied, “It’s better this way. You look like you’re swimming among sharks.” It was better, but still a challenge with the constant waves to swim against. Obstacles only make us stronger!
Vern informed us that the house that burned down had no occupants, so that was good news. On a sadder note, Vern said last week, in the wee hours of the morning,a 14-year old drowned in the lake below our campground. He knew the teen, and lamented the waste of such a young life. To make it even sadder, the exact same thing happened when we visited in 2007. I asked Vern if it was a common occurrence here, and he said "No, 2007 was the last time." How devastating for a small community.
We enjoyed another night at the Arts Festival. ArtCirq (Arctic Circus) from Igloolik, Nunavut performed. A decade ago, the town of 1500 had a suicide rate 4-6 times higher than Montreal. ArtCirq was formed to give children and teenagers a medium to express themselves. They did acrobatics, humorous ‘clowning’ and other things I cannot even describe. The place was packed and the kids loved it. But Ezra and Evangeline were quite distressed since we didn’t have front row seats and made their displeasure known. They were so vocal, I left with them, and Naomi, who still had a stomachache, and Estelle to go to the airport.
Kurt had relayed a message through Mackenzie that his plane would arrive at 9 PM. There was no plane. I went back into town to pick up the others who had been waiting for 20 minutes. Just then, Kurt called to say he wouldn’t be in until much later than he originally thought and told me to wait by the phone. Mackenzie made cookies anticipating his arrival. He finally touched down at 2 am. We taxied some other passengers home and after talking on the deck, and a bike around town, we got to bed at 5 am.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Tribe of Nine Meets Tribe of One
JULY 15
I woke up and surveyed the damage from last night's storm. All the stakes holding the 'patio room' in place were dislodged and the 'walls' were flapping in the wind. Bronwyn and I secured everything again as best we could. Bronwyn is giving Jo some practice with his writing skills. They are playing 'Spies" and writing each other secret messages. Josiah has never had so much fun writing. Learning by default-I always love that!
I hustled the kids first thing this morning to the pool so we could get in on the morning family swim. Naomi is a little 'pooled' out. She was more interested in going home to fill her belly. Ezra, on the other hand, owned the place. He threw caution to the wind, and jumped in all over the place, and let the lifeguards know which toys he needed to make his swim more enjoyable. Kenzie and Jo made some friends and I met their mother in the hot pool, who is also a friend of the Hanthorns. Small world.
The kids were very generous with themselves as they dished out some more of Vern's ice cream and I went for my swim. While I was gone, the kids played 'Restaurant.' Bronwyn made menus and signs for the "Sloppy Jo and Mac and Cheese" Diner. All items could be purchased off the menu for a said number of kisses. They had a ball.
Another evening of entertainment was on the agenda. We saw Rik Leaf and Tribe of One. One guy played the guitar and tried a little too hard to be profound and revolutionary. The female bassist/percussionist had spent a couple of hours at the hospital for food poisoning and was just glad she made it on stage. Another girl stood to the side and painted on a big canvas for the entire performance. It looked very abstract. We couldn't tell what she was painting, but when all was said and done, it transformed into an image of an Inuit man. Neat! Bronwyn was mesmerized. And last but not least, a native girl did a variety of dances to the music in different costumes.
Mackenzie said, "That's the first time I've been to a concert and never been bored at all. If I didn't like the music, I just watched the painting and the dancing." Naomi, with food still on the brain, could only think about the concession stand. Ezra and Evangeline vacillated between awe and fear. Josiah focused on the singer's hands, drumming out some of the rhythm on his guitar. Jo couldn't stop talking about it. Who knows what Estelle was thinking. I was amused seeing the varied responses of my children and fatigued trying to control their outbursts. I might as well have tried to hold back the ocean. And I am SO GLAD Kurt is supposed to return tomorrow.
I woke up and surveyed the damage from last night's storm. All the stakes holding the 'patio room' in place were dislodged and the 'walls' were flapping in the wind. Bronwyn and I secured everything again as best we could. Bronwyn is giving Jo some practice with his writing skills. They are playing 'Spies" and writing each other secret messages. Josiah has never had so much fun writing. Learning by default-I always love that!
I hustled the kids first thing this morning to the pool so we could get in on the morning family swim. Naomi is a little 'pooled' out. She was more interested in going home to fill her belly. Ezra, on the other hand, owned the place. He threw caution to the wind, and jumped in all over the place, and let the lifeguards know which toys he needed to make his swim more enjoyable. Kenzie and Jo made some friends and I met their mother in the hot pool, who is also a friend of the Hanthorns. Small world.
The kids were very generous with themselves as they dished out some more of Vern's ice cream and I went for my swim. While I was gone, the kids played 'Restaurant.' Bronwyn made menus and signs for the "Sloppy Jo and Mac and Cheese" Diner. All items could be purchased off the menu for a said number of kisses. They had a ball.
Another evening of entertainment was on the agenda. We saw Rik Leaf and Tribe of One. One guy played the guitar and tried a little too hard to be profound and revolutionary. The female bassist/percussionist had spent a couple of hours at the hospital for food poisoning and was just glad she made it on stage. Another girl stood to the side and painted on a big canvas for the entire performance. It looked very abstract. We couldn't tell what she was painting, but when all was said and done, it transformed into an image of an Inuit man. Neat! Bronwyn was mesmerized. And last but not least, a native girl did a variety of dances to the music in different costumes.
Mackenzie said, "That's the first time I've been to a concert and never been bored at all. If I didn't like the music, I just watched the painting and the dancing." Naomi, with food still on the brain, could only think about the concession stand. Ezra and Evangeline vacillated between awe and fear. Josiah focused on the singer's hands, drumming out some of the rhythm on his guitar. Jo couldn't stop talking about it. Who knows what Estelle was thinking. I was amused seeing the varied responses of my children and fatigued trying to control their outbursts. I might as well have tried to hold back the ocean. And I am SO GLAD Kurt is supposed to return tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Muffins and Jam
JULY 14
We woke up late to rain. I didn’t sleep well. I woke up at 4 am because there was an inordinate amount of mosquitoes buzzing about. It didn’t take long to discover the problem. Ezra had opened his window and the screen had popped out. I went on a killing spree for half an hour. Then I sat in bed, wide-eyed, waiting to be victimized again.
Vern, the camp manager, came to our campsite. He had a bucket of ice cream and some cones for the kids. He wanted to reciprocate because Bronwyn and Mackenzie keep giving him baked goodies. He said he knocked on our window earlier but no one answered. He said, “You guys must be turning into real Inuvikites, not getting up before noon.” Sad, but true. Bronwyn already had a new batch of muffin batter started when he showed up. We went to the crew house to do yet more laundry and I shampooed 5 heads. The kids ate their ice cream; Bronwyn baked her muffins On our return, she gave four of them to Vern and he said, “If you keep giving these things to me, I’m going to get fat!” We sure like him and he's been nothing but good to us.
There was a coffee house jam session at the Rec Complex. It was already late so Mackenzie and Josiah agreed to put little people to bed and Bronwyn and I headed over. It was not what we expected. We thought there would be lots of people with their instruments playing together, but a stage was set up with rows of observers. Bronwyn brought her violin but had second thoughts. Someone came up, though, and said, “Are you going to play your fiddle?” Bronwyn said, “I dunno.” He said ,”Sure you are. What’s your name and whatcha going play?” So she gave the man her info. Then Dave, from the swimming pool, saw us and asked Bronwyn the same thing. He offered to accompany her on his guitar, and Bronwyn was glad to have someone else up there with her. She played and was so glad she did.
As I am writing this, it is extremely windy, and a balmy 4 degrees. BRRR! Anybody have a parka?
We woke up late to rain. I didn’t sleep well. I woke up at 4 am because there was an inordinate amount of mosquitoes buzzing about. It didn’t take long to discover the problem. Ezra had opened his window and the screen had popped out. I went on a killing spree for half an hour. Then I sat in bed, wide-eyed, waiting to be victimized again.
Vern, the camp manager, came to our campsite. He had a bucket of ice cream and some cones for the kids. He wanted to reciprocate because Bronwyn and Mackenzie keep giving him baked goodies. He said he knocked on our window earlier but no one answered. He said, “You guys must be turning into real Inuvikites, not getting up before noon.” Sad, but true. Bronwyn already had a new batch of muffin batter started when he showed up. We went to the crew house to do yet more laundry and I shampooed 5 heads. The kids ate their ice cream; Bronwyn baked her muffins On our return, she gave four of them to Vern and he said, “If you keep giving these things to me, I’m going to get fat!” We sure like him and he's been nothing but good to us.
There was a coffee house jam session at the Rec Complex. It was already late so Mackenzie and Josiah agreed to put little people to bed and Bronwyn and I headed over. It was not what we expected. We thought there would be lots of people with their instruments playing together, but a stage was set up with rows of observers. Bronwyn brought her violin but had second thoughts. Someone came up, though, and said, “Are you going to play your fiddle?” Bronwyn said, “I dunno.” He said ,”Sure you are. What’s your name and whatcha going play?” So she gave the man her info. Then Dave, from the swimming pool, saw us and asked Bronwyn the same thing. He offered to accompany her on his guitar, and Bronwyn was glad to have someone else up there with her. She played and was so glad she did.
As I am writing this, it is extremely windy, and a balmy 4 degrees. BRRR! Anybody have a parka?
Shutterbug
JULY 13
We did the tourist-y thing. We drove to the Visitor Centre to look around. Bronwyn drove into the parking lot, hit a pothole, and from the roof I heard Kachunka chunk! Keegan had strapped some tubs on the van before he left, or so I thought (or so he thought). All the tubs and the spare tire had slid across the roof rack. I told them to go in while I checked things out, but just as they hopped out of the van, Nature was calling Ezra’s name. They took him inside, but soon returned to inform me the Visitors’ Centre was temporarily out of water and had no bathroom facilities. I had to leave the kids there while I drove Ezra to the crew house just around the corner to use the washroom. When I returned, Naomi was sprawled over one of the displays and the rest were making themselves known. The young girl behind the desk remembered us from last time. Coincidence, I think not.
I took a picture of the kids in front of the giant Inukshuk, a tourist must-have and one of Mackenzie in front of the MacKenzie hotel. The kids stood on the steps of the ‘Igloo’ Catholic Church and I got a snapshot of that too. It’s a major landmark here, one of the first things visitors notice, like the Eiffel Tower is for Paris. Inuvik. Paris. Yup, pretty much identical! It took two years to build using volunteer labour, and in previous visits we were allowed to walk right up into the dome. It has a unique double wall construction to allow ventilation so the ground doesn’t thaw and cause the church to shift. It’s one of the few buildings not built on pilings here. It was built in 1958 for $70,000, less than $30/sq foot. Those were the days! We stopped for ice cream and then went across the street to the library. Raylene was there again and Mackenzie read to her and played with her.
It was very hot and everyone wanted to rest at the trailer. Kenzie offered to babysit, so Bronwyn and I went to “Jig ‘til you can jig no more” dance. Unfortunately, not too many locals came to show off their fancy footwork. A few did though. There’s a mentally challenged man that we’ve seen at every venue, and the dance was no exception. He was the ‘belle of the ball’ and was never short of dance partners. We recognized some campers who spontaneously took the floor during the break and entertained some children there with a hula hoop. Bronwyn was so focused on videotaping her antics that she totally missed seeing the guy balancing a chair on his chin.
It was a breezy enough night that we did S'mores again. Ezra and Naomi, who missed out last time, were not disappointed.
We did the tourist-y thing. We drove to the Visitor Centre to look around. Bronwyn drove into the parking lot, hit a pothole, and from the roof I heard Kachunka chunk! Keegan had strapped some tubs on the van before he left, or so I thought (or so he thought). All the tubs and the spare tire had slid across the roof rack. I told them to go in while I checked things out, but just as they hopped out of the van, Nature was calling Ezra’s name. They took him inside, but soon returned to inform me the Visitors’ Centre was temporarily out of water and had no bathroom facilities. I had to leave the kids there while I drove Ezra to the crew house just around the corner to use the washroom. When I returned, Naomi was sprawled over one of the displays and the rest were making themselves known. The young girl behind the desk remembered us from last time. Coincidence, I think not.
I took a picture of the kids in front of the giant Inukshuk, a tourist must-have and one of Mackenzie in front of the MacKenzie hotel. The kids stood on the steps of the ‘Igloo’ Catholic Church and I got a snapshot of that too. It’s a major landmark here, one of the first things visitors notice, like the Eiffel Tower is for Paris. Inuvik. Paris. Yup, pretty much identical! It took two years to build using volunteer labour, and in previous visits we were allowed to walk right up into the dome. It has a unique double wall construction to allow ventilation so the ground doesn’t thaw and cause the church to shift. It’s one of the few buildings not built on pilings here. It was built in 1958 for $70,000, less than $30/sq foot. Those were the days! We stopped for ice cream and then went across the street to the library. Raylene was there again and Mackenzie read to her and played with her.
It was very hot and everyone wanted to rest at the trailer. Kenzie offered to babysit, so Bronwyn and I went to “Jig ‘til you can jig no more” dance. Unfortunately, not too many locals came to show off their fancy footwork. A few did though. There’s a mentally challenged man that we’ve seen at every venue, and the dance was no exception. He was the ‘belle of the ball’ and was never short of dance partners. We recognized some campers who spontaneously took the floor during the break and entertained some children there with a hula hoop. Bronwyn was so focused on videotaping her antics that she totally missed seeing the guy balancing a chair on his chin.
It was a breezy enough night that we did S'mores again. Ezra and Naomi, who missed out last time, were not disappointed.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Guests at the Gallery
JULY 12
Dragged ourselves out of bed for church today, but at least we made it. Keegan was so tired he asked to go home in the middle of it. I let him. What else can you do with a growing 13 year old boy that only wants to sleep, and can't get to sleep even when he wants to? He slept until 3 pm. Wowsers!
We hung around the trailer today, all doing our own thing. Keegan and I (mostly Keegan) loaded some bikes and tubs on the van roof rack. Kurt wanted us to get a head start before he got back, and with Keegan possibly leaving today, we wanted to get something done. We were waiting for some visitors and they arrived at 7 pm. Uncle Ike and Auntie 'Chele!'
We walked down to the Art Festival to walk through the gallery. Some of the larger stone carvings were on sale for $3000! Even the baby moccasins were $100. Michele said way back when, you could pick up a pair for $25. But aboriginal culture is in vogue now, so up goes the ante. We had very little time as the gallery closed at 8 pm. We walked over to the Mackenzie Hotel where Elbert and Les were eating supper. I'm glad they decided to drive the extra 2.5 hours to the end of the road. It was busy so we left, but not before taking Ike and Michele's picture with the big inukshuk out front. Back at the trailer, Michele pulled out more goodies. She had Crocs for the kids, tiaras for the four little girls, clothes, a game, and some contact solution for me. She also brought us some corn on the cob and fruit. Before we knew it, they were gone, and Keegan went with them to be Ike's go-to guy for the building project. I hope he wakes up before tomorrow.
Did I tell you the internet connection for the campground here only works in the laundry room? You've got people cleaning their clothes, and all these other people huddled in there with their computers trying to send emails and such. It's funny. I feel like a smoker standing on a sidewalk on a cold, snowy day. And the same principle applies. It's amazing how many complete strangers with computers I strike up conversations with in the laundromat. It's like our own subculture. Right now I am talking to a fellow named Steve from Washington who is travelling to all the northernmost roads in North America with his wife. I wonder who it will be tomorrow.
Dragged ourselves out of bed for church today, but at least we made it. Keegan was so tired he asked to go home in the middle of it. I let him. What else can you do with a growing 13 year old boy that only wants to sleep, and can't get to sleep even when he wants to? He slept until 3 pm. Wowsers!
We hung around the trailer today, all doing our own thing. Keegan and I (mostly Keegan) loaded some bikes and tubs on the van roof rack. Kurt wanted us to get a head start before he got back, and with Keegan possibly leaving today, we wanted to get something done. We were waiting for some visitors and they arrived at 7 pm. Uncle Ike and Auntie 'Chele!'
We walked down to the Art Festival to walk through the gallery. Some of the larger stone carvings were on sale for $3000! Even the baby moccasins were $100. Michele said way back when, you could pick up a pair for $25. But aboriginal culture is in vogue now, so up goes the ante. We had very little time as the gallery closed at 8 pm. We walked over to the Mackenzie Hotel where Elbert and Les were eating supper. I'm glad they decided to drive the extra 2.5 hours to the end of the road. It was busy so we left, but not before taking Ike and Michele's picture with the big inukshuk out front. Back at the trailer, Michele pulled out more goodies. She had Crocs for the kids, tiaras for the four little girls, clothes, a game, and some contact solution for me. She also brought us some corn on the cob and fruit. Before we knew it, they were gone, and Keegan went with them to be Ike's go-to guy for the building project. I hope he wakes up before tomorrow.
Did I tell you the internet connection for the campground here only works in the laundry room? You've got people cleaning their clothes, and all these other people huddled in there with their computers trying to send emails and such. It's funny. I feel like a smoker standing on a sidewalk on a cold, snowy day. And the same principle applies. It's amazing how many complete strangers with computers I strike up conversations with in the laundromat. It's like our own subculture. Right now I am talking to a fellow named Steve from Washington who is travelling to all the northernmost roads in North America with his wife. I wonder who it will be tomorrow.
Whipped
JULY 11
TIRED....We read Lord of the Rings until 2:30 am last night. Mackenzie is enjoying is so much, she has decided to read it herself too. Hooray! She has always been the type to only read books she can read in one sitting. Quite a step for her. Bronwyn wanted to work on her novel and make cookies while we did more laundry, so she kept Estelle with her at the crew house, while the rest of us went swimming. It was sure easier without a baby in tow. I went down the waterslide and floated the 'river' with the other two 'E's and the big guys were happy to be footloose and fancy free. Keegan swam 40 lengths by himselfl.Then I swam 50 lengths by myself; we ate a hurried supper and headed back to the Rec Complex for the Northern Arts Festival.
The Northern Arts Festival runs for 10 days and artists from all over the North converge to display their skills and their wares. There is a gallery with beadwork displays, birch bark berry baskets (tongue twister!), bone and soapstone carvings, knives, Arctic clothing (including moccasins and the like), paintings, sculptures and more. Workshops are offered for those adventurous and talented enough to experiment. We watched a drum dancing demonstration. All their movements tell a story, and when we watched closely, we recognized them acting out canoeing and hunting. It's sort of like chanting, Indian-like, but with its own twist. Some ladies and little girls did throat singing. It was very guttural, and interesting. The highlight of the evening was when an older man, who only spoke Inukitut, took centre stage. He had a LOOOOOONG bull whip and showed his remarkable talent. He lined up 3 pop cans and-SNAP!-he sent the middle can flying, and the others remained standing. Then, a cigarette was set standing vertical on the floor and he cut just the butt off the end with his whip. Even more amazing, he did the same trick again, but with the cigarette pinned to the shoe of a volunteer who laid on the floor. The crowd roared, and Keegan was grinning from ear to ear.
TIRED....We read Lord of the Rings until 2:30 am last night. Mackenzie is enjoying is so much, she has decided to read it herself too. Hooray! She has always been the type to only read books she can read in one sitting. Quite a step for her. Bronwyn wanted to work on her novel and make cookies while we did more laundry, so she kept Estelle with her at the crew house, while the rest of us went swimming. It was sure easier without a baby in tow. I went down the waterslide and floated the 'river' with the other two 'E's and the big guys were happy to be footloose and fancy free. Keegan swam 40 lengths by himselfl.Then I swam 50 lengths by myself; we ate a hurried supper and headed back to the Rec Complex for the Northern Arts Festival.
The Northern Arts Festival runs for 10 days and artists from all over the North converge to display their skills and their wares. There is a gallery with beadwork displays, birch bark berry baskets (tongue twister!), bone and soapstone carvings, knives, Arctic clothing (including moccasins and the like), paintings, sculptures and more. Workshops are offered for those adventurous and talented enough to experiment. We watched a drum dancing demonstration. All their movements tell a story, and when we watched closely, we recognized them acting out canoeing and hunting. It's sort of like chanting, Indian-like, but with its own twist. Some ladies and little girls did throat singing. It was very guttural, and interesting. The highlight of the evening was when an older man, who only spoke Inukitut, took centre stage. He had a LOOOOOONG bull whip and showed his remarkable talent. He lined up 3 pop cans and-SNAP!-he sent the middle can flying, and the others remained standing. Then, a cigarette was set standing vertical on the floor and he cut just the butt off the end with his whip. Even more amazing, he did the same trick again, but with the cigarette pinned to the shoe of a volunteer who laid on the floor. The crowd roared, and Keegan was grinning from ear to ear.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
A Perfect Day
JULY 9 and 10
On the 9th, we were tired. Estelle was restless the night before and finally fell asleep at 4 am. So we hung out at the trailer. Bronwyn and I went for a short run, and Evangeline and Ezra wanted to come so bad, I pushed them in the buggy. Not such a good idea. I was so tired, and pushing them up the hills was tougher than I thought. But Ezra bless his heart, said, "It's okay if you get tired, Mommy. If you need a rest, you can just stop for a break.!" And then he kept reminding me, "Now would be a good time for you to rest, Mommy." Pretty thoughtful for a 4 year old.
On the 10th, I woke the kids 'early' (9:30 am) to go to the morning family swim. Am I ever glad we did. We had the entire pool to ourselves for 2 hours. Since no one else was there I talked to the lifeguard, who also happened to be the manager. He and his wife are from Cape Breton, they've been here 3 years and they love it here. He said the people are so friendly (I agree) and it is so laid back, no one is in a hurry or gets grumpy about the pace. He said compared to Inuvik, Cape Breton is fast paced like Toronto. Another fellow came in from the Economic Development office. When he heard our story, he said he was going to go the town office to tell them we should be the "Tourists of the Week." They feature someone every week in the paper. We'll see if anyone tracks us down. I guess they give you some freebies or something. I'm sure the kids would love that. He also offered to give us a tour of the greenhouse and give us some of his 'greens.'
Kurt's office up here has a crew house, so they lent us the key and we did scads of laundry. The kids loved it. After living in the cramped quarters of the trailer, I am sure it felt like a mansion. Naomi said, "I love it. I wish we could live here!" Ezra gave some trucks away to the boy next door. The crew house is one of the 'Smartie Box' houses here. They are all in a line and each one is a different color. Quite unique looking from the outside.
I went swimming and I have to say "I love it. I love it. I love it." I probably haven't put my head underwater at a pool for 15 years. But with no potential drowners to look for, it was so relaxing. I forgot how much I used to enjoy it. And having a pool so close is such a treat. I can actually leave the children for awhile to enjoy the water on my own. I feel like I'm flying.
I got back at 10:30 pm. I promised the kids a campfire because is was such a great day. We made S'mores and the kids enjoyed it immensely. Diana and Evangeline cuddled in a chair together. The big guys did the roasting. Evangeline's face would be stuffed with one S'more and she'd be mumbling through marshmallow for another. They were sticky, but happy.
A sunny day. A breezy day. A bug-free day. Absolutely glorious!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
A Taste of Home
JULY 8
At the library, a young girl, Maddysen, befriended Naomi and Diana. She stuck to them like glue and invited them to her house for a sleepover. She asked Diana how many siblings she had. When Diana replied, "nine," Maddysen was dismayed. She tried to figure out how she was going to fit all of them in her bedroom, and how many she could squeeze on her floor in a desperate attempt to make her wish a reality. Sweet girl. Her mom works at the library and we assured her we would see her there again soon.
Auntie "Shell" and Uncle Ike made it to Fort McPhoo, and they had the most interesting story. Remember the couple with the eight year old girl, Kate, cycling down the Dempster? I had told Shell to keep an eye out for them on their way. Jo and Boo saw the family twice on the road, to and from camp. Anyways, camped along the Dempster, Michele looked up and saw Kate and her parents bike right into their campground. She knew it was them without a doubt, because, really, how many kids do you think you see riding tandem down the Dempster? Michele said, "Hi, I've been waiting for you!" And Kate said, "Me, too!" They ate supper together and then Kate had a sleepover in Ike and Michele's fifth wheel. O, what wonderful lives we weave!
I talked to Paul again and found out that another fellow was flying into Inuvik for the building project in Fort McPhoo. He needed a ride, and on Kurt's advisement, I offered to pick him up and bring him down. So I left Bronwyn holding the fort once again, and Keegan, Jo, baby and I hit the road again. The road was good and we made good time. Two and a half hours later we were in Fort McPhoo.
The church building has started and we saw many people at work, some on the church site, and some painting Paul's house. We walked over to the school, the eating headquarters, as well as sleeping quarters for some of the workers. As we approached, who should walk out the door, but Elbert. It was so good to see him. Then Ike, Michele, and Les soon followed. I can't tell you what joy it was to see our church family up here, a community of believers all working together with others towards a common purpose. We had supper together and the boys and I did some tedious work cleaning sticky, gummy wrappings from new cutlery. One couple was celebrating their 42 anniversary, so we all sang them a song, and Paul sang a song to them that he sang to his wife on their wedding day.
Michele also brought up goodies for the children. She brought shoes, assorted activity books and toys, Bronwyn got painting canvases for her birthday, and Keegan received a hoodie that he likes so much, I don't think he'll ever take it off. We had to leave to make the ferry and Josiah did a good job keeping his little sister happy and was so proud of himself when she fell asleep. We got back at 12:30 am.
Bronwyn and Mackenzie were still up and said they had a good day. They made a picnic and ate by the camp playground under our play parachute we brought along. They made sandwiches and set them up on a log. Ezra was so excited when he saw his 'McQueen' plate, he jumped up and down and catapulted some sandwiches into the dirt. All the girls simultaneously exclaimed, "EZRA!" He immediately burst into tears and cried, "Sorry, sorry, sorry, Bronwyn!" They managed to salvage some sandwiches and still had a good time. I left Fort McPhoo later than expected and tried to call the girls but I couldn't get through. When we got back, Bronwyn and Boo said they wondered what happened to us, but decided they shouldn't let it spoil their fun. By the time everyone shared about their day and Michele's gifts were distributed, it was 2 am. Everyone did get to sleep, but with all the excitement, it was not soon in coming.
At the library, a young girl, Maddysen, befriended Naomi and Diana. She stuck to them like glue and invited them to her house for a sleepover. She asked Diana how many siblings she had. When Diana replied, "nine," Maddysen was dismayed. She tried to figure out how she was going to fit all of them in her bedroom, and how many she could squeeze on her floor in a desperate attempt to make her wish a reality. Sweet girl. Her mom works at the library and we assured her we would see her there again soon.
Auntie "Shell" and Uncle Ike made it to Fort McPhoo, and they had the most interesting story. Remember the couple with the eight year old girl, Kate, cycling down the Dempster? I had told Shell to keep an eye out for them on their way. Jo and Boo saw the family twice on the road, to and from camp. Anyways, camped along the Dempster, Michele looked up and saw Kate and her parents bike right into their campground. She knew it was them without a doubt, because, really, how many kids do you think you see riding tandem down the Dempster? Michele said, "Hi, I've been waiting for you!" And Kate said, "Me, too!" They ate supper together and then Kate had a sleepover in Ike and Michele's fifth wheel. O, what wonderful lives we weave!
I talked to Paul again and found out that another fellow was flying into Inuvik for the building project in Fort McPhoo. He needed a ride, and on Kurt's advisement, I offered to pick him up and bring him down. So I left Bronwyn holding the fort once again, and Keegan, Jo, baby and I hit the road again. The road was good and we made good time. Two and a half hours later we were in Fort McPhoo.
The church building has started and we saw many people at work, some on the church site, and some painting Paul's house. We walked over to the school, the eating headquarters, as well as sleeping quarters for some of the workers. As we approached, who should walk out the door, but Elbert. It was so good to see him. Then Ike, Michele, and Les soon followed. I can't tell you what joy it was to see our church family up here, a community of believers all working together with others towards a common purpose. We had supper together and the boys and I did some tedious work cleaning sticky, gummy wrappings from new cutlery. One couple was celebrating their 42 anniversary, so we all sang them a song, and Paul sang a song to them that he sang to his wife on their wedding day.
Michele also brought up goodies for the children. She brought shoes, assorted activity books and toys, Bronwyn got painting canvases for her birthday, and Keegan received a hoodie that he likes so much, I don't think he'll ever take it off. We had to leave to make the ferry and Josiah did a good job keeping his little sister happy and was so proud of himself when she fell asleep. We got back at 12:30 am.
Bronwyn and Mackenzie were still up and said they had a good day. They made a picnic and ate by the camp playground under our play parachute we brought along. They made sandwiches and set them up on a log. Ezra was so excited when he saw his 'McQueen' plate, he jumped up and down and catapulted some sandwiches into the dirt. All the girls simultaneously exclaimed, "EZRA!" He immediately burst into tears and cried, "Sorry, sorry, sorry, Bronwyn!" They managed to salvage some sandwiches and still had a good time. I left Fort McPhoo later than expected and tried to call the girls but I couldn't get through. When we got back, Bronwyn and Boo said they wondered what happened to us, but decided they shouldn't let it spoil their fun. By the time everyone shared about their day and Michele's gifts were distributed, it was 2 am. Everyone did get to sleep, but with all the excitement, it was not soon in coming.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Hodgepodge
Poor Mackenzie got rained on last night. The water dripped through the patio roof right on her head. In the wee hours, she had to push her cot beside Bronwyn's to get some relief. And she was covered in mosquito bites from her hands to her elbows. She must have left them exposed. The funny thing is that hardly anyone feels itchy from their bites. It's just the initial sting that's bothersome. Well, having skeeters go in our ears and up our noses is not a bowl of cherries, either.
I neglected to mention an event that stirred up some excitement the other day. We were sitting in the trailer when we heard a stream of emergency vehicles whizzing by. The kids ran outside, and yelled, "MOM! SMOKE!" I went out for a look. There was smoke billowing above the houses a couple of streets away. The kids wanted to investigate. The road was barricaded but we saw a house completely charred by fire. It was utterly ruined. The next day, the remnants had already been removed and only a bare lot remained. What an impact that must have, not only on the family, but the entire community.
The two little ones are in a healing crisis. Evangeline wasn't feeling too good last night, probably from the kiwi she ate last night. They just don't agree with her, and one of these days I am going to remember. But I'm pretty sure after the clean-up Keegan did last night, he will never let me forget again. Estelle started coughing last night, too. Hopefully it's not a cough like Ezra and Evangeline had on the trip up. In the van, they coughed, spluttered, and gagged to the point that we had to give Ezra Kurt's Starbucks travel mug to use as a spittoon. They're finally getting over it with a regimen of chiropractic care, vitamins, and some good Arctic air, but it lasted well over a month. But to quote my favorite quote from Don Quixote, (which I just finished!), that's just 'tarts and gingerbread." Life is still pretty goood and laid back around here.
I neglected to mention an event that stirred up some excitement the other day. We were sitting in the trailer when we heard a stream of emergency vehicles whizzing by. The kids ran outside, and yelled, "MOM! SMOKE!" I went out for a look. There was smoke billowing above the houses a couple of streets away. The kids wanted to investigate. The road was barricaded but we saw a house completely charred by fire. It was utterly ruined. The next day, the remnants had already been removed and only a bare lot remained. What an impact that must have, not only on the family, but the entire community.
The two little ones are in a healing crisis. Evangeline wasn't feeling too good last night, probably from the kiwi she ate last night. They just don't agree with her, and one of these days I am going to remember. But I'm pretty sure after the clean-up Keegan did last night, he will never let me forget again. Estelle started coughing last night, too. Hopefully it's not a cough like Ezra and Evangeline had on the trip up. In the van, they coughed, spluttered, and gagged to the point that we had to give Ezra Kurt's Starbucks travel mug to use as a spittoon. They're finally getting over it with a regimen of chiropractic care, vitamins, and some good Arctic air, but it lasted well over a month. But to quote my favorite quote from Don Quixote, (which I just finished!), that's just 'tarts and gingerbread." Life is still pretty goood and laid back around here.
Birthday Blowout
JULY 5 & 6
Yesterday we made it to church, just down the road. The message was great. I loved going there on our last trip. We renewed old acquaintances and the rest of the day was pretty much a swim day.
We somehow managed to blow a tire on each buggy. So much for walking everywhere; it’s just too much for Ezra and Evangeline. Even with the short walk to church, they were dragging their feet. We took it as an opportunity for Bronwyn to practice driving in a small town…and for me to sit calmly in the passenger seat. We are both going to need more practice.
Today was Bronwyn’s 15th birthday. Kenzie made her pancakes for breakfast. Josiah gave her a fossil rock he found, as well as a loonie of his own. The little guys drew her pictures. I took her out and bought her some moccasins-the genuine article!
For each child’s birthday, I cook the dinner of their choice. Typically, they choose something they love or something I don’t usually let them have. So just like on her 13th birthday in Inuvik, Bronwyn chose-horror of horrors- Pizza Pops for supper and a white slab cake. She loves the icing on those cakes. To each his own.
We also ran around town to find a thermal shirt for Kurt. With the cold wind blowing off the frozen ocean, his gear isn’t as warm as he’d like. It took three stops, but we found one. We dropped it off at the office and it will be on the plane tomorrow. I talked to Kurt’s contact there. Lo and behold, there were three buggy tire tubes in storage, left from a previous trip. Woohoo! Keegan did the repairs and our buggies are fully operational again.
Keegan’s reserved his birthday gift for the evening. He bought chips for Bronwyn with a specific purpose in mind. I finished reading the children The Fellowship of the Ring last night and Bronwyn asked, rather, pleaded, to watch the movie. She really wanted Mackenzie to see it now that she had heard the story. I gave in and Keegan thought it only right to give his sister some snacks.
Keegan just informed me that he desperately needs my assistance. A crisis involving a mess in Evangeline's undergarments. Duty calls.
Yesterday we made it to church, just down the road. The message was great. I loved going there on our last trip. We renewed old acquaintances and the rest of the day was pretty much a swim day.
We somehow managed to blow a tire on each buggy. So much for walking everywhere; it’s just too much for Ezra and Evangeline. Even with the short walk to church, they were dragging their feet. We took it as an opportunity for Bronwyn to practice driving in a small town…and for me to sit calmly in the passenger seat. We are both going to need more practice.
Today was Bronwyn’s 15th birthday. Kenzie made her pancakes for breakfast. Josiah gave her a fossil rock he found, as well as a loonie of his own. The little guys drew her pictures. I took her out and bought her some moccasins-the genuine article!
For each child’s birthday, I cook the dinner of their choice. Typically, they choose something they love or something I don’t usually let them have. So just like on her 13th birthday in Inuvik, Bronwyn chose-horror of horrors- Pizza Pops for supper and a white slab cake. She loves the icing on those cakes. To each his own.
We also ran around town to find a thermal shirt for Kurt. With the cold wind blowing off the frozen ocean, his gear isn’t as warm as he’d like. It took three stops, but we found one. We dropped it off at the office and it will be on the plane tomorrow. I talked to Kurt’s contact there. Lo and behold, there were three buggy tire tubes in storage, left from a previous trip. Woohoo! Keegan did the repairs and our buggies are fully operational again.
Keegan’s reserved his birthday gift for the evening. He bought chips for Bronwyn with a specific purpose in mind. I finished reading the children The Fellowship of the Ring last night and Bronwyn asked, rather, pleaded, to watch the movie. She really wanted Mackenzie to see it now that she had heard the story. I gave in and Keegan thought it only right to give his sister some snacks.
Keegan just informed me that he desperately needs my assistance. A crisis involving a mess in Evangeline's undergarments. Duty calls.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Pool-mania
JULY 4
I got up this morning before the kids were awake and did an aquafit class at the pool. It was fun, and didn't seem that strenuous but I was feeling it in my muscles later. I came back and we made some lunch and then hurried back to the pool for the family swim.
Bronwyn and Keegan swam 40 lengths together. Which is great for them, but left me with less help than I am accustomed to having or capable of doing. The lifeguard had to speak to Ezra twice-once for running on the pool deck, and once for standing on a floating map. Where was his mother? Looking in three other directions: chasing after Naomi, hitching a baby on my hip who didn't want to get wet, and trying to divert Evangeline who did not think she could be happy unless she had the PINK ball. Josiah was diving for rings and Mackenzie was looking out for Diana, who wants desperately to be doing what the bigger ones are doing, whether she is capable or not. Lest it sounds like my kids left me to my own devices, they did all take turns with the little ones at different intervals. I do want them to enjoy some freedom as well. Alas, I forgot the post-swim snacks and suffered the consequences. With the acoustics in the change rooms, it's a wonder the pool staff didn't swoop in to rescue the would-be sufferers of all-that-is-wrong-with-having-yourself-showered-and-clothed.
We went back to the trailer and I got supper going. I left the kids for an hour and went BACK to the pool for the adult swim. It was so nice. There was only one other person swimming and the pool was illuminated only by the underwater lights. Very soothing. Inspired by my eldest two, and with Bronwyn's swim top in hand, I was ready to try a lane swim. I did 40 lengths and enjoyed hearing nothing but the water moving around my ears. I am sure it wasn't pretty, but I did get myself from one end to the other. I felt good, but was surprised when I stepped out of the pool. I was walking none to straight and feeling a little dizzy. Hmm, maybe 4 hours at the pool in one day is a bit much. But no worries, I feel good.
I got up this morning before the kids were awake and did an aquafit class at the pool. It was fun, and didn't seem that strenuous but I was feeling it in my muscles later. I came back and we made some lunch and then hurried back to the pool for the family swim.
Bronwyn and Keegan swam 40 lengths together. Which is great for them, but left me with less help than I am accustomed to having or capable of doing. The lifeguard had to speak to Ezra twice-once for running on the pool deck, and once for standing on a floating map. Where was his mother? Looking in three other directions: chasing after Naomi, hitching a baby on my hip who didn't want to get wet, and trying to divert Evangeline who did not think she could be happy unless she had the PINK ball. Josiah was diving for rings and Mackenzie was looking out for Diana, who wants desperately to be doing what the bigger ones are doing, whether she is capable or not. Lest it sounds like my kids left me to my own devices, they did all take turns with the little ones at different intervals. I do want them to enjoy some freedom as well. Alas, I forgot the post-swim snacks and suffered the consequences. With the acoustics in the change rooms, it's a wonder the pool staff didn't swoop in to rescue the would-be sufferers of all-that-is-wrong-with-having-yourself-showered-and-clothed.
We went back to the trailer and I got supper going. I left the kids for an hour and went BACK to the pool for the adult swim. It was so nice. There was only one other person swimming and the pool was illuminated only by the underwater lights. Very soothing. Inspired by my eldest two, and with Bronwyn's swim top in hand, I was ready to try a lane swim. I did 40 lengths and enjoyed hearing nothing but the water moving around my ears. I am sure it wasn't pretty, but I did get myself from one end to the other. I felt good, but was surprised when I stepped out of the pool. I was walking none to straight and feeling a little dizzy. Hmm, maybe 4 hours at the pool in one day is a bit much. But no worries, I feel good.
Happy and Not-so-happy Campers
JULY 3 (continued)
We made it back safe and sound. I was glad Keegan came along for the ride to Fort McPhoo (that's what my friend Lynn calls it). It certainly made the 2.5 hour drive go faster. And we drove right onto the Mackenzie River Ferry. No waiting! Bonus! We were there waiting when they arrived.
They had a good time, and wonder of wonders, Mackenzie won the "Girl Camper of the Week" just like her big sis and Josiah received a group award for "Best Cabin of the Week." They earned points for certain tasks, like being ready on time, getting in line, and having the cleanest cabin. Huh? Have you ever seen his room? Mackenzie also clocked the best time for the girls on the rope course. When Bronwyn heard that, she said, "I knew it! I just knew it!" There was some trouble in Jo's cabin, though, with two boys picking on another, which distressed Josiah. Josiah got punched in the stomach a couple of times himself, but one shout from Mackenzie of "YOU QUIT HITTING MY BROTHER!!!" and that was the end of that.
Kenzie said on the drive down, the van got a flat tire. It had rained, and the ground was so wet and soft, the van sank too low for the jack to raise it enough. So they had to find a big rock to set the jack on so it could do its job. And it was a difficult job at that. At least Paul has lots of experience travelling that road. By the end of the camps, Paul will have driven the Dempster eight times in three weeks. That's around 6000 km! Wow! And yet it's 'all in a day's work' for him.
The drive home was a little more hairy. We made it to the ferry before it closed. Then rain started coming down pretty good. Okay so far. But then Estelle was not a 'happy camper' and the kids could not console her and begged for me to let her out of her carseat. But there's always a storm before the calm with her, and even though it took a while, she did drift off to sleep. But my nerves were a little rattled in the driver's seat. I'm usually the one doing the consoling, not the driving; and not just driving, but trying to give instructions in consolation at the same time. We got home at 1:40 am. Bronwyn was there waiting for us and gave Jo and Boo a big hug, lifting Jo off the ground. As late as it was, those bigs guys did not want to go to bed. They had so much so share after not seeing each other for two weeks. And I'm sure they'll still be talking for days to come.
We made it back safe and sound. I was glad Keegan came along for the ride to Fort McPhoo (that's what my friend Lynn calls it). It certainly made the 2.5 hour drive go faster. And we drove right onto the Mackenzie River Ferry. No waiting! Bonus! We were there waiting when they arrived.
They had a good time, and wonder of wonders, Mackenzie won the "Girl Camper of the Week" just like her big sis and Josiah received a group award for "Best Cabin of the Week." They earned points for certain tasks, like being ready on time, getting in line, and having the cleanest cabin. Huh? Have you ever seen his room? Mackenzie also clocked the best time for the girls on the rope course. When Bronwyn heard that, she said, "I knew it! I just knew it!" There was some trouble in Jo's cabin, though, with two boys picking on another, which distressed Josiah. Josiah got punched in the stomach a couple of times himself, but one shout from Mackenzie of "YOU QUIT HITTING MY BROTHER!!!" and that was the end of that.
Kenzie said on the drive down, the van got a flat tire. It had rained, and the ground was so wet and soft, the van sank too low for the jack to raise it enough. So they had to find a big rock to set the jack on so it could do its job. And it was a difficult job at that. At least Paul has lots of experience travelling that road. By the end of the camps, Paul will have driven the Dempster eight times in three weeks. That's around 6000 km! Wow! And yet it's 'all in a day's work' for him.
The drive home was a little more hairy. We made it to the ferry before it closed. Then rain started coming down pretty good. Okay so far. But then Estelle was not a 'happy camper' and the kids could not console her and begged for me to let her out of her carseat. But there's always a storm before the calm with her, and even though it took a while, she did drift off to sleep. But my nerves were a little rattled in the driver's seat. I'm usually the one doing the consoling, not the driving; and not just driving, but trying to give instructions in consolation at the same time. We got home at 1:40 am. Bronwyn was there waiting for us and gave Jo and Boo a big hug, lifting Jo off the ground. As late as it was, those bigs guys did not want to go to bed. They had so much so share after not seeing each other for two weeks. And I'm sure they'll still be talking for days to come.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Battle of the Bed Bugs and the Bulge
JULY 3
A cloudy day, but nice. We got to bed at a reasonable hour, 11:30 PM. But then I sat in bed, engaged in guerilla warfare with my unseen enemy, of the flying, biting sort, until 2 am. I just can't sleep with all that buzzing going on around my face, and I do see it as my duty to protect the innocent by warding off the mosquitoes that zone in on Estelle's face. But the enemy has gone into retreat, and we've seen and heard and felt less of them. Now, we have to do a wash down of all the walls to remove the remnants of all our successful battles. There are insect remains and splatters where my army and I were a little zealous in our onslaught.
But last night was a good sleep, nonetheless. I got six solid hours undisturbed because Estelle was undisturbed by the insects and no one fell out of bed. Yes, Diana fell out of the top bunk and split her chin, but that's old news. Evangeline and Ezra have had almost nightly spills since we got here. It's like dominoes-one goes and then the other goes. And the funny part is, they fall out-THUD!- I hear a moan and when I go to check on them (yes, I do go and check now since Diana fell), they are still asleep, huddled on the floor. How DO they do that?! But I can't leave them there, because it does get cool and they might get crushed by the next one who bites the dust. Last night, I hemmed them in with couch pillows, and voila, no casualties. And I slept like a baby.
Bronwyn and I ran again today and it was much easier, but I wouldn't go so far as to say I enjoyed it. However, it was great to run, or rather shuffle, the whole way without stopping and we both felt good at the end. Now, we're at the library and tonight Bronwyn is staying with the troops while Keegan comes with me and Estelle to Fort McPherson to pick up Josiah and Mackenzie from camp. We'll be praying for sturdy tires and a reliable engine.
A cloudy day, but nice. We got to bed at a reasonable hour, 11:30 PM. But then I sat in bed, engaged in guerilla warfare with my unseen enemy, of the flying, biting sort, until 2 am. I just can't sleep with all that buzzing going on around my face, and I do see it as my duty to protect the innocent by warding off the mosquitoes that zone in on Estelle's face. But the enemy has gone into retreat, and we've seen and heard and felt less of them. Now, we have to do a wash down of all the walls to remove the remnants of all our successful battles. There are insect remains and splatters where my army and I were a little zealous in our onslaught.
But last night was a good sleep, nonetheless. I got six solid hours undisturbed because Estelle was undisturbed by the insects and no one fell out of bed. Yes, Diana fell out of the top bunk and split her chin, but that's old news. Evangeline and Ezra have had almost nightly spills since we got here. It's like dominoes-one goes and then the other goes. And the funny part is, they fall out-THUD!- I hear a moan and when I go to check on them (yes, I do go and check now since Diana fell), they are still asleep, huddled on the floor. How DO they do that?! But I can't leave them there, because it does get cool and they might get crushed by the next one who bites the dust. Last night, I hemmed them in with couch pillows, and voila, no casualties. And I slept like a baby.
Bronwyn and I ran again today and it was much easier, but I wouldn't go so far as to say I enjoyed it. However, it was great to run, or rather shuffle, the whole way without stopping and we both felt good at the end. Now, we're at the library and tonight Bronwyn is staying with the troops while Keegan comes with me and Estelle to Fort McPherson to pick up Josiah and Mackenzie from camp. We'll be praying for sturdy tires and a reliable engine.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
A Convenient Truth
JULY 2
Not that anyone cares about my internet woes, but something happened that was amusing to me. I went and saw the camp manager, Vern, and he told me the campground has its own router and he gave me the password. Finally, a solution for my temperamental computer, and it had been there all along. However, he warned me, it might only work in the laundry room. So to really make things easy on myself, today I am blogging from the library computer.
A beautiful day. Sunny and breezy. I don't really enjoy the wind, except on a super hot day, but when the alternative is a barrage of bugs, a little wind is downright heavenly.
We went swimming again today. Keegan played with his little siblings the entire time and they loved him for it. Bronwyn swam 40 lengths. She said if a pool was readily available at home, swimming would be her sport of choice. I would be inclined to agree with her if I was more of a swimmer, and less of a flounderer. I did give it a go, though, and swam 10 lengths. However, my suit-ahem- was not appropriate for the activity. Some suits are made for swimming, some for lounging. After trying some side-strokes, I discovered my suit is more of the lounging, non-sporty, variety. We had another screaming,crying shower fiasco, though not unexpected. We did get dressed unscathed. That is, if I don't include Naomi bumping her knee on a bench she couldn't see because she was walking with her eyes shut, for fear of soap or water getting into her eyes. And a reminder to myself: NEXT TIME, MUST BRING POST-SWIM SNACKS!
The access to so many things that come with living in a town is a real treat for us. We can walk everywhere we need to go: the post office, the grocery store, the pool, the park, and the ice cream store. Hmm, maybe that last one's not such a good thing. I would LOOOOVE to go to a gym everyday by myself. Or maybe that's just easy to say when it's not even in the realm of possibility. Besides, Kurt would say I'm better off enjoying the great outdoors. He does have a point, but no distractions and everything at my fingertips would be a novelty.
We stopped by the fruit truck again on the way home and got some more goodies, of the fresh variety, that is. Keegan wants to go 'home' and just eat fruit for supper. I just might let him.
Not that anyone cares about my internet woes, but something happened that was amusing to me. I went and saw the camp manager, Vern, and he told me the campground has its own router and he gave me the password. Finally, a solution for my temperamental computer, and it had been there all along. However, he warned me, it might only work in the laundry room. So to really make things easy on myself, today I am blogging from the library computer.
A beautiful day. Sunny and breezy. I don't really enjoy the wind, except on a super hot day, but when the alternative is a barrage of bugs, a little wind is downright heavenly.
We went swimming again today. Keegan played with his little siblings the entire time and they loved him for it. Bronwyn swam 40 lengths. She said if a pool was readily available at home, swimming would be her sport of choice. I would be inclined to agree with her if I was more of a swimmer, and less of a flounderer. I did give it a go, though, and swam 10 lengths. However, my suit-ahem- was not appropriate for the activity. Some suits are made for swimming, some for lounging. After trying some side-strokes, I discovered my suit is more of the lounging, non-sporty, variety. We had another screaming,crying shower fiasco, though not unexpected. We did get dressed unscathed. That is, if I don't include Naomi bumping her knee on a bench she couldn't see because she was walking with her eyes shut, for fear of soap or water getting into her eyes. And a reminder to myself: NEXT TIME, MUST BRING POST-SWIM SNACKS!
The access to so many things that come with living in a town is a real treat for us. We can walk everywhere we need to go: the post office, the grocery store, the pool, the park, and the ice cream store. Hmm, maybe that last one's not such a good thing. I would LOOOOVE to go to a gym everyday by myself. Or maybe that's just easy to say when it's not even in the realm of possibility. Besides, Kurt would say I'm better off enjoying the great outdoors. He does have a point, but no distractions and everything at my fingertips would be a novelty.
We stopped by the fruit truck again on the way home and got some more goodies, of the fresh variety, that is. Keegan wants to go 'home' and just eat fruit for supper. I just might let him.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
The Truth North Strong and Free
July 1
Keegan was dog-tired. He had been tormented all night by the bugs, from sleeping outside in our 'patio.' But we managed to get out the door to enjoy the Canada Day festivities, which started on time! There were the usual floats, kids riding their bikes, mounties and a police truck pulling an RCMP boat. The kids scrambled for the 'loot': candy, carabiners, and pens. Someone even passed out books. Then it was off to the park for the honeybucket race. The participants made their own race vehicle, incorporating a toilet. Then the legion served a huge cake, 'as big as me,' according to Bronwyn. We recognized two people we met last time we were here, and it was nice to see them again. There was a mini-carnival, but it was so busy and hot (20 degrees) we went over to the Gwich'in (formerly Loucheux Indian, I believe) celebration where they were offering a free meal of Arctic char and fixings. We didn't stay long. The little guys had had enough, so we sought refuge from the heat and bugs in the trailer.
The 'fruit truck' was in town, so I picked up some produce. O glorious day! A fellow goes to BC, picks up fruit and veggies, and other items and trucks it up to Inuvik and sells it from his refrigerated trailer about every 2 weeks during the summer. The prices are a bit cheaper and the produce fresher. We ate cherries and corn on the cob tonight (not together!). And I just have to make some bruschetta with my fresh tomatoes and cilantro. Yum!
Keegan was dog-tired. He had been tormented all night by the bugs, from sleeping outside in our 'patio.' But we managed to get out the door to enjoy the Canada Day festivities, which started on time! There were the usual floats, kids riding their bikes, mounties and a police truck pulling an RCMP boat. The kids scrambled for the 'loot': candy, carabiners, and pens. Someone even passed out books. Then it was off to the park for the honeybucket race. The participants made their own race vehicle, incorporating a toilet. Then the legion served a huge cake, 'as big as me,' according to Bronwyn. We recognized two people we met last time we were here, and it was nice to see them again. There was a mini-carnival, but it was so busy and hot (20 degrees) we went over to the Gwich'in (formerly Loucheux Indian, I believe) celebration where they were offering a free meal of Arctic char and fixings. We didn't stay long. The little guys had had enough, so we sought refuge from the heat and bugs in the trailer.
The 'fruit truck' was in town, so I picked up some produce. O glorious day! A fellow goes to BC, picks up fruit and veggies, and other items and trucks it up to Inuvik and sells it from his refrigerated trailer about every 2 weeks during the summer. The prices are a bit cheaper and the produce fresher. We ate cherries and corn on the cob tonight (not together!). And I just have to make some bruschetta with my fresh tomatoes and cilantro. Yum!
Window of Opportunity
June30
I wish you could see me. My hubby's gone, my computer won't work properly,so I'm blogging on Kurt' tiny phone keypad. It's laughable. What's most laughable is that I'm actually taking the pains to do it. Anyway...
We actually got up and did some school today. Keegan did 6 math lessons in one day, of his own accord. Wow! The oldest four have all been keeping journals. It will be so nice for them to preserve some memories.
We went to the library. It is truly one of my favorite places to go. The children amused themselves with books, toys, and coloring, and the local children amused themselves with mine. And I got to READ! Even Estelle was content for almost an hour in their partitioned play area. Then Keegan treated everyone to ice cream.
Bronwyn and I tried to run again. Keegan and Diana were biking and we were going to push two children each in our buggies. But we had a huge hole in one tire. Then Keegan and I gave piggybacks and Bronwyn pushed a stroller, but then one child was always left out. To top it off,we got locked out of the trailer AGAIN but this time we don't know how it happened. But we got in lickety-split by hoisting Diana through the emergency window above Evangeline's bed that she must have unlatched, like she's done so many times before. Small mercies! Oh yaaaaa, now I remember why my fitness fell by the wayside! Life can really get in the way. But tomorrow is a new day... and tomorrow my extra set of trailer keys will be stowed in the van.
I wish you could see me. My hubby's gone, my computer won't work properly,so I'm blogging on Kurt' tiny phone keypad. It's laughable. What's most laughable is that I'm actually taking the pains to do it. Anyway...
We actually got up and did some school today. Keegan did 6 math lessons in one day, of his own accord. Wow! The oldest four have all been keeping journals. It will be so nice for them to preserve some memories.
We went to the library. It is truly one of my favorite places to go. The children amused themselves with books, toys, and coloring, and the local children amused themselves with mine. And I got to READ! Even Estelle was content for almost an hour in their partitioned play area. Then Keegan treated everyone to ice cream.
Bronwyn and I tried to run again. Keegan and Diana were biking and we were going to push two children each in our buggies. But we had a huge hole in one tire. Then Keegan and I gave piggybacks and Bronwyn pushed a stroller, but then one child was always left out. To top it off,we got locked out of the trailer AGAIN but this time we don't know how it happened. But we got in lickety-split by hoisting Diana through the emergency window above Evangeline's bed that she must have unlatched, like she's done so many times before. Small mercies! Oh yaaaaa, now I remember why my fitness fell by the wayside! Life can really get in the way. But tomorrow is a new day... and tomorrow my extra set of trailer keys will be stowed in the van.
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