Monthly Archives: June 2011

In case you were thinking Cree was simple…

Posted on June 28, 2011 by âpihtawikosisân

In a previous post I went wild explaining ways in which words can be constructed in Cree using various suffixes that are imbued with particular meanings.  I know that in some ways, this can make Cree seem rather simplistic, albeit … Continue reading →

Posted in Cree vocabulary, Fluency, Imperative/command form, Plains Cree, Pronunciation, Word lists | 5 Comments

My current obsession: beading

Posted on June 25, 2011 by âpihtawikosisân

The Métis are often called ‘The Flower Beadwork People’ for their stunning floral designs worked out in beads or embroidery.  Intricate decorations on clothing or tools had been long practiced by native peoples using a variety of materials such as … Continue reading →

Posted in Metis beadwork, Pow wow | 2 Comments

You know a tree by its fruit…I mean, root.

Posted on June 23, 2011 by âpihtawikosisân

There are a stunning number (for me) of responses to recent blog posts that I have not yet had time to digest and respond to so I wanted to preface this post with two things: my thanks for the comments … Continue reading →

Posted in Building suffix, Fluency, Language learning, Liquid suffix, Plains Cree, Suffixes, Tool suffix, Wood suffix, Word lists | 2 Comments

The secret lives of Indians…

Posted on June 15, 2011 by âpihtawikosisân

June is National Aboriginal History month here in Canada, and has been since 2009.  I only found out this year.  We’ve had National Aboriginal Day (June 21) for about 15 years now, but apparently we also have a whole month … Continue reading →

Posted in Alienation, Culture, Injustice | 7 Comments

Creating a language nest

Posted on June 5, 2011 by âpihtawikosisân

I am often seized with this desire to quit my job, and devote myself entirely to developing a language and culture program for my children and others.  Language development is my most passionate hobby.  What often stops me however is … Continue reading →

Posted in Culture, Fluency, Language learning, Plains Cree, Urban Aboriginal | 11 Comments

Dealing with racism.

Posted on June 3, 2011 by âpihtawikosisân

The Odawa pow-wow was awesome…a little soggy, but nothing we couldn’t handle.  It was a very laid back pow-wow and all of the kids felt very comfortable dancing during the inter-tribal songs and round dances.  My sewing skills are frankly … Continue reading →

Posted in Alienation, Culture, Injustice, Métis, Pow wow, Representation of natives, Urban Aboriginal | 3 Comments