Blackfeet Reservation, June 8th

We had a hard time waking up. I think the week’s work and excitement caught up to us. We had a nice breakfast, which consisted of cinnamon rolls, coffee, and juice. We watched Lakota Brule while eating; this type of music and dance is similar to the performances at the Native American Indian Days in July. This Friday was particularly special for us volunteers because we had the opportunity to help at the Flood Memorial.48 years ago the tragic flood of ’64 took many lives. In honor of those that were lost, each year Browning and the surrounding areas affected by the flood gather to share their memories of that day and those that were lost. The whole global crew helped serve food to everyone that came to the memorial, and we cleaned up afterwards.

After the ceremony, we went to the pawnshop and trading post to buy souvenirs for our family members and friends. Some of us branched off towards the museum in town, while others who had already seen the museum went to the “Espresso Teepee” for a couple of cool beverages. After talking with the owner and petting her friendly pup, we were on our way- delicious drinks in hand.

On the way back to Headstart, Linda felt like conquering a hill to see the good view at the top. As we started up the hill the wind kicked up and this is when the cold drinks seemed like a bad idea. After a few “burrrrr”s and a few more “ohhhh jeezz”s we made it to the top of this tiny hill, saw the view (which was nice), and hurried back to our temporary home to get out of the cold wind. I don’t think any of the volunteers will forget about the wind on the Blackfeet Reservation.

Michele then drove us to the Lodge Gallery and Teepee Village owned by Darrell Norman and his wife, Angelika. This place is located in a beautiful area outside of Browning and is listed in Leisure magazine as one of the top ten places to stay in the world. Both Darrell and Angelika are artists and have their worked displayed among other local artists’ work at their gallery. This is also where we counted our fifth cat on the reservation! (In a town dominated by dogs, cats are hard to come by.)

We came back to Headstart to eat Indian tacos made by Candy Lamott, a wonderful woman and our amazing cook. An Indian taco has basically the same taco ingredients as any other type of taco except for the ripped up fried bread that it is served on. This meal was very filling and as a taco lover, I highly recommend trying it.

Overall, I can say that the days here go by quickly, maybe even too fast. This might be because the days have been full of new tasks to complete, new things to learn, beautiful scenery, delicious food and most of all good company.

The week is over, I’m sad to see everyone leave. All of you contributed to a wonderful beginning to my 7-week stay on the Blackfeet Reservation. Thanks for your hard work and good humor! J