Columbus Day

I remember in school when I was a kid that Columbus Day was a day mentioned and we learned that annoying poem:

In Fourteen hundred Ninty two
Columbus sailed the ocean blue...

I don't honestly remember the rest. I got taught in school that Columbus was a visionary man who went looking for new worlds. My grandmother informed me later that Columbus simply went the wrong way, got lost, damn near got himself mutinied and thought he was in the east indies.

History, depending on who you talk to and whose version you read, tells us that diseases never before seen in the Americas decimated native tribes. And a whole bunch of other nastyness.

I also read a history book which states that the number of natives was declining prior to Columbus arrival. I disagree with that statement and flat out call it bullshit however I should mention that I have yet to verify the sources cited to prove or disprove the statement. Once I do, expect another post on the subject. As a Native American my ancestors were directly affected by the crimes of Columbus.

Columbus Day means a lot to me though. And not because I'm furious over the treatment of my ancestors (I am saddened by the brutality though don't get me wrong). You see it is on Columbus Day that I most vividly remember my grandmother. That her council is most especially missed.

Grandma followed the beliefs and traditions of the Iroquois. She believed that a certain ancestress was Iroquois (mom and I have both found proof to the contrary), she taught me about the Great Spirit and the proper, respectful use of tobacco and sage and sweet-grass. She taught me to think for myself. She taught me to take pride in who I am and honor those who came before.

Grandma passed away a couple years ago. But ever since then, her memory has been strongest on Columbus Day. So in honor of her I'll share one of her favorite songs. One of my favorite songs.

June???

Wow, so it's been months and months since I have posted here. O_o

The major changes; after much prayer and discussion with hubby we decided to add one more child to our home. Imagine our shock and utter amazement when we were informed in feb that we are expecting twins! TWINS!!!

Holy cow!

Then we discovered to my husband's shock, that they are both girls!

Yes, I cried.

There are so many thoughts about this that I find myself unable to really articulate. I'm also three times the normal scatterbrain than I usually am :P!

We are happy and feel blessed.

In other news, Teen got a job and has made some great steps in maturing. He is currently at a Boy Scout Camp for the week. I am very proud of him.

Homeschooling post forthcoming.

Welcome 2010

2009 is heading out. It has been for me and mine, a difficult journey, a tough road full of changes and twists and turns. For our family the biggest change was that we moved.

So hello, My name is Ester and I have a large family. Sounds like something you would find at some AA type meeting; Hi! my name is ________ and I have kids!

People give me funny looks when I tell them I have 7 kids. "All yours?" is the usual response. Technically I only gave birth to six of them.... but they are mine. And hubby's. I have to share them with the hubby :P

So we have 7. 6 boys and 1 girl.

the oldest, just turned 16, had his first job interview today. We shall see if he gets it or not. **crosses fingers**

I am homeschooling the younger kids. The oldest is prepping for his G.E.D.

And the natives are getting restless so I'll jet for now.

Happy New Year folks!