Category: Life
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Let’s Do Better
National Truth and Reconciliation Day September 30, 2025 I am a survivor of Holy Angels in Fort Chipewyan. back row 2nd wearing a scarf. I carry both hope and pain in my spirit on this day. I spent 7 years there. Many wear orange shirts in solidarity. I acknowledge the effort behind this gesture. Yet,…
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Rose — Survivor with an Indomitable Spirit
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” — Albert Camus In this chapter, I write about my sister Rose, the strongest person I know. She is dynamic, fearless, and deeply committed to protecting both people and the land. Her life has been marked by struggles. No…
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Happiness is yours to grab
What Brings Me Happiness I come from a small northern helmet, Fort Chippewa, Alberta. It is the little things that bring me happiness. I am a proud Denesuline (Dene) Happiness to me is when I feel the warmth of these little moments. They fill me with joy. It sparks a sensation akin to tiny butterflies…
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Trees and Humans: A Unique Connection
Trees and humans share remarkable similarities despite their differences in form. Like humans, trees have unique life cycles, growing from small beginnings into strong, mature beings. Their roots anchor them to the earth, much like human foundations—our families, cultures, and experiences—that shape who we become.Recently I’ve read several books on trees, I speak for Trees,…
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Christmas in Doghead Alberta
My childhood Christmas memories in Doghead are magical and precious memories. Like sitting in front of a roaring fireplace on a cold winter night. I felt cozy and safe. On Christmas eve. All of us walking to church for midnight mass was always exciting. The the moonlight bright, made the snow sparkle like tiny diamonds.…
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The Impact of Family Deaths: Reflections on Loss and Legacy
The first time I heard that someone I knew passed away, it was my grandmother, Christine Adam. She died on the operating table. I had a quick and visceral reaction to the news of her passing. I was a 21 year old student with my life ahead of me and my grandmother’s life ended. It…
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Healing Gardens: A Journey to Recovery
In 2018, I experienced a medical crisis. Thankfully, it was resolved with surgery. Unfortunately, I suffered a Right brain parietal stroke during surgery. I designed a healing garden that summer, to help me recover faster. People feel better when surrounded by fresh flowers. I am no different. As I was researching healing, I discovered an…
From the Shores of the Ottawa River 