Blueberry season
August is such a busy month for most of us Eeyouch. There’s the CNG’s annual general assembly and that can be heavy and long but that is democracy at its best.
I am currently sitting at Kuujjuarapik Airport waiting for my flight to Chisasibi enjoying my sandwich made with love by Leslie at Leslie’s Bakery. If you’re in Whap country you must go and grab a bit to eat and support this wonderful wholesome bistro. I guarantee you will be greeted with handshake and smile by local musician Joseph George who is a faithful customer.
Christine Petawabano and I enjoyed ourselves taking selfies as she became my Bo Derek running through the tiny waves along the shore. Not exactly the same picture but it was entertaining! She is still seeking a partner to love, as Michael Chettleburgh mentioned at the opening of the Nishiiyuu Council of Elders’ gathering. Some of the elderly single men were eyeing her. Hey, people at any age need some tender loving care.
People throughout Eeyou Istchee tell me that blueberries will fill the land because of all the thunder and rain we’ve had this summer. Audrey Visitor at the Air Creebec Whapmagoostui counter was munching her Arctic char mixed with blueberries from the Whap hilltop. Anna Bosum of Oujé told AGA delegates about her blueberry farm. What a great idea and I hope it brings money to the community – something to think about, all you EDOs!
As for me, I hope to vacuum some blueberries sometime this summer with my beloved. I know a secret spot. Most guys know of a secret spot for fishing but I have a blueberry spot! Get your blueberries; they are nutritious and healthy for you!
Speaking of being healthy, at the Elders’ gathering, sitting in the back was Melly Sandy (Shecapio) with her nutribullet. I’ve seen posts on Facebook from her children. This time I got to see her and asked her a few questions about her discovery. She told me that the doctors kicked her diabetes pills to the curb because of her juicing. Her greens, fresh veggies, fruit (she loves her ginger and blueberries mixed) saved her life!
She hasn’t popped any pills since. A lot of the Elders were amazed by her story. I told her that she could be an Eeyou poster lady for juicing. And why not? She has a story that we need to hear. A Googoom taking control of her health and doing something about it: now that’s cool.
By the time this is out, students across Eeyou Istchee will have returned to their classrooms to learn and to be inspired. So I say to the teachers, welcome back to Eeyou Istchee. To the new ones – welcome! Keep inspiring our kids/youth and always do your best. They depend of on you.
Parents: encourage and support your student. To the graduates, I salute you! Keep up the good work and go on to get that university degree. Most importantly, take the time to visit your Elders and listen to them. When you do, bring them blueberries. A kind gesture goes very far!