Welcome to Metlakatla!

Well, it has been almost a month since I arrived on a ferry to the beautiful Annette Island.  I'm sorry it has taken so long to update, but internet was not so easy to come by.  In the last few weeks I have gotten to carve on a totem pole, go berry picking, make homemade jam, attend a potlatch, bbq on the beach and so much more.  I have met so many wonderful people in Metlakatla that are very welcoming and willing to share their culture with me.

The culture of this Indian Reservation is truly remarkable and am learning more about the native's roots day by day.  There is a man that has been raised here in Metlakatla and has been hired to carve a totem pole for his grandmother, which will be raised and celebrated one year after her death this September, followed by a potlatch.  Now I know what you're thinking. "A potlatch?? Does she mean a potluck?"  Actually, a potlatch is the opposite of a potluck, in that the host is responsible in feeding everyone that attends as well as giving away gifts to those that come, as a thank you for being a part of the ceremony.  This was a tradition from long ago, that just recently got brought back to the Tsimshian culture  in Metlakatla.  The carver, David, is very much involved with reviving the culture left on the reservation as well as trying to integrate more, through the schools and community.  He will be working with us teachers in teaching the students some songs and words in the native Tsimshian tongue, as well as providing the students with stories of the native origins, which are fascinating.

Learning the art of carving

David, carving the totem pole for his grandmother

This was mine and Katie's dog pack.  Normally a group of 7 that would be hanging out and waiting for us outside our door, on our porch.  Our landlord wasn't a huge fan, so needless to say now there is a gate leading up to our porch.  Our puppies still find us here and there and escort us when we walk around town.  Katie and I have been named the "white girls with the dogs".

Dressing for Metlakatla weather...Stylish, I know!  Got 8 inches of rain in one day and up to 50 mph winds.  So much for summer weather..