Reflections on December...

December has been an exciting month in Colville Lake! My classroom is full and excitement has been high.  The students who were living on the land returned with many stories of their adventures.  They all had great success in trapping and hunting.  Last week the Game Warden was in town and bought all the furs off of the trappers.  My students brought their furs to sell as well. 

December has been an interesting month.  Having 5 students return after a few months of absence combined with the excitement and preparations for the the Christmas concert has resulted in a slower pace in our academics.  I was proud of the students who were away as they all worked hard on practicing their reading and writing.  They have quickly adjusted back to the routine of going to school each day and are adding a fun dynamic into the classroom. 

Our school Christmas concert was a huge success.  We were worried that all the presents wouldn't arrive in time, but were fortunate that enough came in time for each student to have something to open.  A month ago a very kind donation came in of backpacks for the students.  I have been adding school supplies and winter gear to these backpacks over the past few weeks and was able to give them out at the concert. 

Colville Lake School hosts a feast along with the Christmas concert each year.  The school provides all the food and community members spend the day cooking and preparing.  The food was delicious and the kids did a great job preforming thier songs!

Louie ordered in hats for all the children and worked hard to decorate the gym with her students.  Grades pre-k through to grade 4 did a song and dance.  The middle school preformed The 12 Days of Colville Lake Christmas. 

This month we have had very limited daylight, but have made sure to take advantage of it when it comes.  Both Jenn and I love to take our classes out sliding (or as I call it "sledding"). 

---

Fishnets have continued to be a highlight of our weeks.  I have gone out to check it once, and Martin takes different people often. 

The sun no longer comes above the horizon.  The above picture is taken around 1pm at sunrise. 

This month I traveled to a neighboring community, Fort Good Hope.  Fort Good Hope is larger than Colville and has police, nurses, and two stores.  The school looks like a real school building and has classrooms with doors and full walls.  A part of me felt envy and another part missed the quaintness of Colville Lake. 

As a last minute decision I decided to travel to Surrey for our Christmas break.  However, because I decided so late in the game I wasn't able to get a seat on the flight with the other teachers and ended up traveling alone at a later time. 

Being home has been restful and good for my heart.  I have spent a lot of quality time with my nieces and nephew (and the rest of my family too). 

I have being keeping things low key and more quiet while being in town.  As much as I would love to see everyone, I have recognized the importance of really resting during this time.  

This Christmas I am so thankful for the love and support I have received over these past few months.  Despite being physically isolated, I have felt overwhelmingly surrounded and carried. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!