Yaghudang'ang

To Pay Respects. Here lies the final performance of Sinxii'Gangu, sounding gambling sticks. A Haida Language that I was blessed to be part of. The number of hours were immeasurable but the reward was amazing. Living on Haida Gwaii and not being haida is sometimes challenging, but feeling like I was a part of this amazing first put me at feeling of actually being from the islands now. Our last presentation was done at the opening of the Haida Heritage Museum before a group of dignitaries including the premier, david suzuki, and a host of aboriginal heroes. Very cool to get to talk to these gentlemen. We then got to do another 2 runs at the homecoming where all the haida foster kids are brought back out to Haida Gwaii once a year to re-establish connections with there Nanni (Grandmother) and Chinni (Grandfathers). Very unconventional for todays adoptive standards.
All in all a very cool production that will take a break before a run in Vancouver for the olympics in 2010. Wasluwan dii'twii. (enough for me my friend).

Supernatural cloud in a wagering match with Sinxii'Gangu

Cast and crew out of costume

I think they liked it... not an empty seat in the house.

More of the cloud and villagers. Amazing job on the costumes

Help Wanted

Well, a brief view of the surf... Singing Surf Inn, my new digs. I've been pulling insane hours at this place, basically from noon to 2am when the bar closes. I realize now what a pain in the ass I was as a patron to bars at 2am. Last night interrupting fights, getting called a 'fucking whitey' and all sorts of abuse from drunks make me really appreciate the bartender and the patience they have.
So, saying that, anyone want to replace me? I've agreed to manage the property, but working these Korean hours are going to bury me. If any of you readers know anyone that may want to come for a visit to the islands I would love to hire a professional server/bartender to work at the surf. We have accomodations and food for anyone wanting to come out. Surfers are highly recommended to apply. It really is a good opportunity around here to make a few $$. Love to have people join me...

The surf shop inside. A few boards.

Home sweet crack-shack

Well it's official, I've entered the world of debt. This little abode is my new home. I feel happy to have finally entered the world of the home owner and look forward to fixing up this old place. It needs some windows, and some great heaps of TLC, but I've got time and the gumption to do it. I forgot to get a picture of the other side of the road which is the Masset Harbour, which is a beautiful view during breakfast. I see the seaplanes and boats coming and going throughout the day and hope that this little piece of investment will pay off in a few years. Whatever the case, it's been great to move into town.
Speaking of which, it just dawned upon me that this is the first time I've had power and running water in 2 years! Living off the grid was an amazing experience and I never thought I'd say it, but doing dishes is fun again, not worrying about keeping the fire burning and doing one load at a time. I shave nearly every week, and don't have that nice hint of 'ass' when I walk down the street. Becoming part of the society again will be great to go through I'm sure. Once again, place to stay for any visitors.

My surf shop on the 'back 40'. May become a rental space in the near future. Not a bad little back yard though eh?

My new 'gun' surfboard I got in Oregon. I ended up meeting the shaper.

The living room. Lots of wood around and I'm guessing a few coats of varnish and I'll have a nice warm woody house and a reminder of the beach.

Me, Lucy and the cat in our new backyard.

Family and Friends

Awww, a nice cute one this time. My family from Washington that I was lucky enough to get to visit this month. I have seen my cousin once in my life, pictured here with her 4 kids, husband, her mother (Aunt Gwen) and Ken, Lucy and ugly. What a great opportunity to see these folks in some of themost amazing land around. I'm just figuring out how to get these darn pictures off my phone and I'll be able to show you some of the Oregon coast in the next blog. Until then, love your family and friends.