Here's a mini "Eagle Staff" I make and use for teaching. This one has a medicine wheel, using the 4 colours along the shaft to hold the feathers. In a school setting I've also used the feather placement to incorporate the Seven Grandfather Teachings. Our grade two's practised cursive writing on a paper feather to impart the messages of the 7 teachings: Respect, Truth, Bravery, Kindness, Humility, Love and Wisdom. Using a simple stick of their choosing they decorated it when the writing process was complete. Each day brought a new teaching which we would engage at every opportunity. It is a simple and memorable activity that can be done at any time of year. Many wanted to make more staffs to give family members. :)

Ho'ia:n [ho yawn]/Happy New Year! Shown here is a tunic and skirt I'll wear to Tshya'tekohselha [jaw day go sale ha]/Midwinter ceremonies this wknd. The tunic has special signifigance as it is made from calico received in Wisconsin when we celebrated the Treaty of Canandiagua [1794]. For many generations now, Hotenoshone [ho day no shown eh]/Longhouse people have received calico, originally one 'bolt' per family as part of the treaty in payment for the land shared with the Europeans. We must continue to acknowledge this practise for our future generations. Nowadays, we receive approx. 1-2 yards; enough to make a dress ... so I made the tunic and a large lined bag. The skirt shown is one given by Khe'k^:ha[kay go ha]/my older sister: Yew^nano'tu [yea wah na node]/She likes to read. The design shows the celestial tree with rows of corn edging the front. These designs are ancient quill and bead symbols that have been passed down. Cuffs and collar are also edged in white beads; a usual custom.