December 21: Winter Solstice

Example of prayer stick available from
http://www.mountainridgetrading.com/ceremonial.html

While all the world is knee deep in Holiday shopping, planning the menu for a succulent Christmas feast, writing that annual newsletter, and creating "Visions of Sugar Plums", another important holiday in Native American culture is often overlooked or completely forgotten.

Winter Solstice is Dec 21. For Native Americans it is a time of transition, of looking back at the old year and looking forward to the new. Many cultures around the world have celebrated the winter solstice for hundreds, even thousands of years as they watched the days grow shorter and waited for the sun to return.

Native Americans honor the cycle of life during Winter Solstice.

Endings are remembered and new beginnings are anticipated just as our ancestors did before us. While different tribes and their individual members honor Winter Solstice in many ways, here is one tradition that you might like to learn about.

Prayer Sticks are used in the Winter Solstice celebration. The ritual of the Prayer Sticks honor ones ancestors. Re-commitment is made to one's belief system. Prayers are offerd. Gratitude is expressed.

Prayer sticks are made by everyone in a family four days before the solstice. On the day of the Solstice, the prayer sticks are planted. At least one stick is planted by each person of the family in small holes dug by the head of the household.

Each prayer stick is named for an ancestor.

Traditional prayer sticks have these characteristics:

• Made out of cedar and are forked
• Are equivalent to the measurement from the maker’s elbow to the tips of their fingers
• Are taken from a tree that the maker feels connected to.
• Tobacco is offered to the tree
• Permission is asked to take a part of its relative.
• The bark can be stripped or.
• The bark can be carved on the stick.
• One feather should be added to the prayer stick. Traditionally this is a wild turkey feather.
• A bit of tobacco is placed in a red cloth and tied onto one of the forks.
• Fur or bone from an animal that the maker wishes to honor is tied onto the stick.
• Metal or stones should not be tied to the stick.
• It is also customary to say prayers silently as one makes the prayer stick

Many Native American Artists make and sell prayer sticks but one can easily follow the directions above and create a personal ceremonial Prayer Stick to celebrate the Winter Solstice.

Whether you have a Prayer Stick or not, take time on December 21 to give thanks to those who have gone before you for they paved your way. Honor your friends and relatives who have contributed to who you are and to your welfare. Reflect on 2009 and ask for guidance as you plan for 2010. Then you can resume work on making your Holidays merry and bright.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

We've Been Exposed!

Today, Vicki Diane, owner of Vicki Diane Designs on Etsy, curated this wonderful treasury that "exposed" eleven of my Bbest Team members and me. There I am, second row, first person on the left!

The Bbest Team is comprised on artists who are beyond 39 years of age (some of us are many years beyond) and own Etsy stores. We are a group of fine artists, jewelry makers, candle makers, yarn spinners, clay artists, photographers, soap makers, vintage vendors, paper artists, knitters, crocheter, seamstresses, glass artists, writers, needle felters, silk painters and about any other art or craft you can name.

Part of the charm of the Bbest Team is our variety in chosen mediums. However, we are like minded in spirt, promoting one another, sharing in milestones, chatting about life, lessons learned, and little things that bring smiles across the miles.

Vicki Diane, who lives in Spain and the UK, describes herself as one who changes her creations regularly to keep them fresh and inviting. She relates that she has bursts of colour phases .. today red , tomorrow pink or turquoise .. next week - all animal print ! Vicki says, "What the hell .. I'm a modern crazy woman - fickle, fanciful and full of fantastic new flowing ideas that overtake me !"

Curating Team Treasuries is just one example of those fantastic ideas that have overtaken her!

To see the wonderful things that she creates when she isn't promoting other Etsy artists, offering sage advice in forums, and adding fun to the Etsy community, check out her store at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/VickiDianeDesigns

Here is an example of her work entitled Red Stiletto Baby:

Native American Christmas

This wonderful treasury was posted on Etsy this morning by Giftbearer. Giftbearer, AKA jewelry artist Pippit Carlington, specializes in high-end indigenous jewelry drawing inspiration from nature and a variety of cultures close to the earth. It is such an honor for me to have her select one of my bracelets (first row, center) for inclusion in this beautiful tribute!

Giftbearer's store is full of wonderful items. Her work is anything but primitive. She describes her work as "Contemporary Tribal" style.

Pippit says "I approach each piece as a living being with a soul. If I can convey this essence to the viewer and have it speak to them on a deeper level then I have done what I've set out to do. I want my work to be more than merely an accessory, but something treasured with special meaning to the buyer, not necessarily in words, but in the same way you know it when it's true love."

Pippit is a perfectionist and nothing leaves her hands until it meets high standards of quality control. She has received formal art training at Callenwolde Center for the Arts, The Atlanta College of Art, and Atlanta Jeweler's School and Studios.

You must visit her Etsy store at http://www.giftbearer.etsy.com/ You will be amazed by her beautiful work.

Mvto and Wado (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) Pippit for selecting one of my pieces for your wonderful treasury!

Christmas Tree At The White House

Yesterday while watching a news channel on T.V., I saw that the 2009 Christmas tree was making its way to the White House. It reminded me that I have a White House Christmas Tree story to tell that I have yet to blog about.

Last year, about this time, I had a booth at a local church that was sponsoring a Native American Craft Show. A woman purchased one of my barrettes and a feather hair clip. Little did I know at the time that it would be making a trip to Washington D.C.

This fall, Patrick (my son) and I were vending at the Metropolitan Community College's Annual Intertribal Pow Wow. The woman who had purchased that barrette and feather hair clip came to our booth and informed me that my work had visited the White House. I was so surprised!

Kymi Rutledge Johnson had been selected to deliver and present a Christmas ornament to decorate the Christmas tree in the Blue Room at the White House. In honor of the occassion, she wore the barrette and feather hair clip that I had made and that she had purchased.

I was thrilled to think that my work was selected by her to wear on that wonderful occassion. I, of course, asked her if she had a photo and she later e-mailed this one to me.

There it is! That is Kymi wearing my work in the Blue Room of the White House! What an honor for Kymi to be selected for this event and what an honor for me for her to wear my work!.

Mvto and Wado (Thank You in Creek and Cherokee) Kymi!

Eve's Fund: Join Me In A Little Thanksgiving

As many of you know, I had the distinct honor and priviledge of being selected to bead bracelets from the logo of Eve's Fund.

Eve’s Fund is a Native American Health Initiatives Inc. that promotes programs to help Native Americans. It was established in 2005 by Dr. Robert M. Crowell, a retired neurosurgeon and named in memory of his daughter, Eve Erin Crowell, who died tragically in February of that year. Eve’s Fund is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization incorporated in New Mexico.

This morning I received the Eve's Fund November Newsletter via e-mail. One item caught my undivided attention and reminded me of all that I have to be thankful for. It was facing the fact that there are many Native children who do not own books.

Can you imagine your growing up without owning a single book? Can you imagine your Grandchildren not owning a book? But it is true that there are many Native children who don't have the luxury of book ownership. I find this fact to be very sad and I am so thankful that a large part of Eve's Fund is promoting literacy.

For a mere $5.00 donation, they will ship a book to a Native child. Remembering the pleasure of reading books to my three grandchildren and in purchasing books for them, I determined to purchase books for three Native children in the name of my three grandchildren.

We take so much for granted! We forget how blessed we are!

If you would like to make a similar Thanksgiving gift, it is very simple. Go to this site. http://evecrowellsfund.org/Eves_Fund_for_Native_American_Health_Initiatives/Thanksgiving2009.html
Click on "Donate". You can pay with Paypal.

What a simple way to say "Thanks" for all the pleasure books have given you and to provide that experience for another child. Join me in a little Thanksgiving.

People Of The Sun Treasury

People of The Sun is a delightful treasury curated by Rejoice The Sun during National Native American Month. I am humbled to have my earrings (second row, middle item) among these beautiful items created by both Native American artists and artists inspired by Native American arts and crafts.

Rejoice The Hands is an Etsy store owned by Ana Saldana. Rejoice the Hands makes one of a kind jewelry thats inspired by not only nature but different cultures around the world including Native American. Using semi precious stones, metals and anything that inspires her. Rejoice tries to be as eco- friendly as possible, using recycled chains and also adding vintage elements, giving character to each piece. Each piece is designed and made by Ana herself, and just like there's only one of her, all the jewelry is one of a kind. You can visit Ana's store here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/RejoiceTheHands

Mvto and Wado (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) Ana for this tribute!

Way To Go Yankees!

As many of you know, my very good friend, Louetta Armell, is Joba Chamberlain's cousin.
She shared this article with me and I wanted to share it with my friends. Joba is one of two Native Americans currently playing baseball in the major leagues. He is Winnebago and from Nebraska.

Whether you are a Yankees fan or not, I think you will be touched by this article. It is not only about winning, but also about surviving hardships, setting goals, family support, and that very special Father/Son relationship.

Joba, we are so proud of you! Congratulations to you and your team!

Thu Nov 05, 2009 10:29 am EST

World Series moment: Joba Chamberlain and his dad, Harlan
By 'Duk



NEW YORK — The throng of media members around the makeshift stage seemed impenetrable, but Harlan Chamberlain motored his way through all of the cameras and notepads anyways. Reaching a blue barrier, he stopped his scooter, strained to look over a crowd of world champion Yankee ballplayers and tried to get a glimpse of his son. When that proved useless, he simply resorted to his considerable vocal chords.

"Jaaaaaaahba!" he yelled. "Jaaaaaaaaaahba!"

Harlan said his son's name a few more times, then spied A.J. Burnett(notes) in the crowd.

"Burnett!" he said. "Can you get my son!"

Burnett could and a few moments later, Joba Chamberlain(notes) put down the giant blue Yankee flag he had been waving up on stage. The big Yankees pitcher hopped off the stage, disappeared from the view of the Fox cameras and quickly made a beeline for his father. When they came together, they wrapped each other in a huge rocking bearhug.

It wasn't long before both were crying.

They said the same thing over and over.

"We did it, dad," Joba said.

"We did it," Harlan said.

"We did it," Joba said.

"We did it," Harlan said.

And on and on. They held tight for almost a minute. Their eyes were red when they let go.

You see the Yankees' $200+ million payroll and it's easy to get cynical. Same goes for their $1.5 billion new stadium, the seats that cost more than the average mortgage payment, the steroid controversies involving some of their team members and all the endless hype and hooey about mystique, aura and all the Yankee legends and ghosts.

But then you see this very simple and very real scene of a 24-year-old pitcher sharing the hug of a lifetime with his dad and you remember that those father-son relationships — one of the only things that really matter — are at the very heart of this great game that we love.

The same dynamic was on display everywhere at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday night. Way up in the upper deck, a dad tossed his little son into the air whenever Hideki Matsui(notes) came through (which was often). A mid-20s hipster sitting next to them made sure to ask one of my co-workers to snap a photo of he and his pops with his grainy cell phone camera. CC Sabathia(notes) did his postgame interviews with his little son on his shoulders the whole time.

And while all of those tiny little snapshots meant the world to those pictured in them, none of them seemed quite as remarkable to outsiders as the one taken by the Chamberlains.

Their story has been told often since Joba became a pitcher with the Yankees. Harlan was stricken with polio as a child and his health problems have confined him to the trademark scooter that gets him recognized by Yankee fans everywhere. Despite his limitations, he raised both Joba and his sister in Nebraska and provided for them while working in a prison. The sad story of Joba's mother is sadly well-known — she's facing 20 years in jail for a drug charge — but he's always had the love and support from an extraordinary father. They call each other their best friends. It's impossible for them to be any closer.

I caught up with Harlan later on Wednesday night and asked him what it was like to see his son pitch a scoreless inning in a World Series clincher. Then I asked him what it was like to have the hug on the field with him afterward. His eyes were still teary as he talked.

"I told my son for years that he would do this, we would talk about getting to the World Series all the time" said Harlan while stopped near home plate of Yankee Stadium. "We just shared that moment while realizing that he did it. I pinched myself a few times. It's pretty awesome.

"We love each very much. This whole adventure in life is about family and in our case, it's about father and son."

In the days ahead, we're sure to see a lot of scenes from the Yankees 27th championship. Some we'll be bound to remember. Some we'll be bound to forget.

It's not hard to tell which category the Chamberlains' special moment will fall under, because it rarely gets much better than that

Native Nation Treasury

To celebrate National Native American Month, Northenlodge, an Etsy seller, has curated this wonderful treasury. There are over 5,000 items for sale by Etsy artists that are tagged "Native American".

Not all of these are made by Registered Members of a United States recognized tribe. However, those who are and those who are not, are inspired by our culture and create many beautiful and diverse works of art.

My thanks to Northernlodge for including my Prairie Rose bracelet (middle item, first row) in her beautiful treasury. If you have a few minutes, check out Northernlodge's store at http://www.etsy.com/shop/Northernlodge. You will find many beautiful things.

While you are on Etsy, do a search of "Native American" to see the vast array of beautiful handmade items. Help us promote November as National Native American Month and November 27th as National Native American Day!

Obama Declares National Native American Month!

NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH, 2009
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

The indigenous peoples of North America -- the First Americans -- have woven rich and diverse threads into the tapestry of our Nation's heritage. Throughout their long history on this great land, they have faced moments of profound triumph and tragedy alike. During National Native American Heritage Month, we recognize their many accomplishments, contributions, and sacrifices, and we pay tribute to their participation in all aspects of American society.

This month, we celebrate the ancestry and time-honored traditions of American Indians and Alaska Natives in North America. They have guided our land stewardship policies, added immeasurably to our cultural heritage, and demonstrated courage in the face of adversity. From the American Revolution to combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, they have fought valiantly in defense of our Nation as dedicated servicemen and women. Their native languages have also played a pivotal role on the battlefield. During World Wars I and II, Native American code talkers developed unbreakable codes to communicate military messages that saved countless lives. Native Americans have distinguished themselves as inventors, entrepreneurs, spiritual leaders, and scholars. Our debt to our First Americans is immense, as is our responsibility to ensure their fair, equal treatment and honor the commitments we made to their forebears.

The Native American community today faces huge challenges that have been ignored by our Government for too long. To help address this disparity, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act allocates more than $3 billion to help these communities deal with their most pressing needs. In the Fiscal Year 2010 budget, my Administration has proposed over $17 billion for programs carried out by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Health Service, and other Federal agencies that have a critical role to play in improving the lives of Native Americans. These programs will increase educational opportunities, address the scourge of alcohol abuse and domestic violence, promote economic development, and provide access to comprehensive, accessible, and affordable health care. While funding increases do not make up for past deficiencies, they do reflect our determination to honor tribal sovereignty and ensure continued progress on reservations across America.

As we seek to build on and strengthen our nation-to-nation relationship, my Administration is committed to ensuring tribal communities have a meaningful voice in our national policy debates as we confront the challenges facing all Americans. We will continue this constructive dialogue at the White House Tribal Nations Conference held in Washington, D.C., this month. Native American voices have echoed through the mountains, valleys, and plains of our country for thousands of years, and it is now our time to listen.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2009 as National Native American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and activities, and to celebrate November 27, 2009, as Native American Heritage Day.

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) Mr. President.

Newest Ferry to Be Named for 19th Century Jamestown S’Klallam Chief, Chetzemoka

I just received word that this new ferry is being named after my cousin's husbands ancester. I think this is great news and want to share it with my friends.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Betty Prince (My Cousin), Les Prince, JoAnn Bussa (Historical Society Leader)

The Story:
Olympia Washington. Chetzemoka will sail again from Port Townsend next summer. The Washington State Transportation Commission agreed Tuesday that the first new 64-car ferry should be named after the former chief of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe known for befriending white settlers of the Olympic Peninsula.

Les Prince, Chetzemoka’s great-great grandson, and his wife Betty (my cousin), of Sequim, were in Olympia on Tuesday when the commission adopted the name. According to the resolution the commission adopted, the name “honors the natives of the region and their seafaring skills and traditions and also continues the proud name of the historic ferry that served Port Townsend.”

“It’s always good to have your family recognized that way,” said Prince, one of Chetzemoka’s few direct descendants and chairman of the tribe’s elders committee.

Prince told the commissioners that, “If the old chief were here today, he’d look out at the boat, raise his hands and say, ‘Ha’ non-son, Ha’ non-son,’ which means ‘Thank you, thank you.’”

Chief Chetzemoka was buried in 1888 at the age of about 80 at Laurel Grove Cemetery in Port Townsend. A park in the town bears his name. He is remembered for his peaceful relations and diplomacy with the white setters and explorers, including in 1857 when he went against other tribal leaders who wanted to drive them out of the area.

Congratulations Les and Betty on this historic event!

Native American Beaded Bracelet (Serenity Series The Sky Is The Limit) : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

This "serentity bracelet" has been a popular item and it can be custom made with symbolic gemstones of your choosing.

This "Serenity Bracelet" is so named as it is meant to bring you serentity on particularily stressful days.

Native Americans perform a purifying ceremony called "smudging". Sage, cedar, lemon grass or other botanicals of choice are burned in a prayer bowl or abalone shell. Feathers are used to waft the smoke around to remove negative energy.

The prayer box on the bracelet is where you actually or mentally place a problem, totem, stone, or treasure to represent your thoughts and prayers. The hinged box opens to receive small items.

The bracelet is wrapped around the wrist and is worn so that the gold toned feathers and prayer box rest on top of the hand. As you journey throughout the day, when the box and feathers move on your hand, you are reminded of your thoughts and prayers by the box and negative energy is removed by the feathers.

Since the bracelet is done on a continuous piece of "memory wire", it should comfortably fit wrists from 6 1/2 to 8 inches...maybe more.

Stones and Symbolism for "Sky Is The Limit Serenity Bracelet"

Turquoise...The "Sky" stone of Native Americans (Note: the stones used in this bracelet represent turquoise but are actually howlite)

Citrine...The stone of the mind. Citrine is known as the lucky "Merchants Stone" and is said to help one sell. It is also used by healers to: increase self esteem, protect from someone else's abuse thoughts or deeds, open the mind to new thoughts and promote clarity of thought

Topaz is identified as one of 12 gemstones in the breastplate of the High Priest in the book of Exodus and is sacred to the twelve angels that guard the gates to Paradise. It is said to encourage self realization and confidence

Mvto and Wa-do' (That is Thank You in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing. Joni Stinson, Creek-Cherokee

Native American Beaded Earrings (Snow Flakes) : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

This beaded snowflake earrings are just in time to start the season!

The top portion represents a snowflake against the gray blue sky. The fringe is comprised of frosted branches sparkling with snow and ice.

The beaded portion of the earring is 2 1/4 inches long. The stainless steel earwire adds an addition 1/2 inch to the overall drop. The widest point of the snowflake measures 7/8 inches.

These will add fun and frolic to your winter wonderland wardrobe.

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing.

Native American Beaded Bracelet (Stylized Butterfly Cuff) : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

This bright and bold loomed cuff bracelet features a sylized butterfly design. The butterflies are bright pearlized pink beads highlighted with black and teal beads. The spacer area is beaded in bright teal and amber seed beads.

The cuff is 2 inches wide and will fit wrists up to 7 inches. The closure is made of handbeaded ball beads and loops.

To Native Americans, the butterfly is a symbol of joy. They remind us not to take life so seriously. They feed on flowers that they help pollinate, thereby further spreading beauty. They represent the element of air, quickly changing and ever moving, so gracefully. Butterflies are messengers of the moment.

They come in a variety of colors. If you like this bracelet but would prefer it in different colors or a different size, please let me know and I will be happy to loom one just for you!

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing.

Native American Turquoise Ankle Bracelet : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

This beautiful ankle bracelet is made to fit ankles from 7 to 10 inches. It could also double as a bracelet for those requiring a longer than average bracelet length.

I have hand wire wrapped the five natural turquoise stones and attached them to a silver plated chain. Feather charms were added to promote positive energy as you go about your day. A cute "hand made" charm was added just for fun and to proclaim the fact that it is a hand made piece.

The lobster claw clasp and chain make it possible to adjust the anklet (or bracelet)to the length desired.

This bracelet will bring you many compliments and is fun to wear!

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing!

Native American Fetish Necklace (Frog Medicine Necklace) : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

In many Native American cultures, frog medicine represents the cleansing properties of water and rain to bring about renewal of the body and spirit.

The beautiful necklace was designed to honor the frog who sees a need and ribets his song. It is heard by the birds who deliver the song to the Thunder Beings. The Thunder Beings and Father Sky bring the support and cleansing needed for renewal.

The centerpiece frog featured in this necklace is hand carved whale bone from Alaska. The tree of life birds are shell fetishes. The colors used, red, black and white, are three of the four colors from the medicine wheel. The foundation beads are seed beads and Delicas.

The primary necklace is 30 inches long. The inner necklace is 20 inches from joining point to joining point. The frog is 1 1/2 inches long by 7/8's inches wide. No clasp is required as the necklace fits easily over the head.

This necklace is a call to frog medicine for peace, joy and a renewal of spirit.

Mvto and Wa-do' (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing!

Native American Beaded Earrings (Pretty In Pink Fanfare Earrings) : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

These pretty fan shaped hand beaded earrings were made by me. The are made from bright pink glass bugle beads, pink seed beads and pearlized white seed beads. The ear wires are hypo-allergenic stainless steel.

The "fan" measures 1 inch long by 1 1/4 inches wide. Including the ear wire, the "dangle" would be 1 7/8's inches.

These would look great any day of the year!

I can make them in the color of your choosing. Just let me know your needs.



The last photo shows a young lady modeling the pair in green that she purchased as a Pow Wow souvenier last summer.

Wvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing.

Native American Beaded Earrings Thunderbirds : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

These traditional Native American style earrings are beaded using brick stitch. The thunderbird appears in a pattern in the earrings fringe.

The Thunderbird is often known as the "Thunder Being". Thunder Beings have strong power. The Thunder Beings are symbolic of the power within the thunder and lightning, the thunder is the Great Spirits earth voice. It represents overcoming impossible odds, reincarnation, new life, renewal, spiritual growth, strength and energy.

The bead work in these Thunderbird Earrings measures 3". The hypoallergenic surgical steel earwire adds approximately 1/2" to the total drop.

The colors include deep red, sky blue, black and a touch of white. However, should you prefer a different color combination, please convo me and I would be honored to bead them just for you!

If you are an international shopper and would like these earrings, please convo me for shipping charges.

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing.

Native American Beaded Earrings Midnight In The Pumpkin Patch : jstinson - ArtFire Jewelry

These earrings are just in time for the fall harvest! They are adorable ghosts who have helped themselves to Mother Earth's bounty. Each has a cute orange pumpkin complete with green leaves clutched in their hands as they are posed to make their great escape.

The earrings are beaded in shimmering white Delica beads on a midnight blue sky back ground. The "tails" of their sheets are in very small Delica hex beads to give them "drape" as they swoosh through the night. They are framed in gold.

The beaded portions of the earrings are 1 1/2 inches long and 3/4 inch wide. The surgical steel earwires add an additional 1/2 inch to the overall drop of the earrings.

These mischeivious (but harmless) little ghosts will make a great addition to your fall jewelry wardrobe!

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank You in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing!

Sac and Fox Pow Wow: August, 2009

Grand Entry

Last week end, my son, Patrick, and I traveled to Powhattan, Kansas to participate in the annual Sac and Fox Pow Wow. This was the second year that we have been among the vendors at this event. At one point, it was uncertain as to whether or not the tribe would have a Pow Wow this year due to some financial considerations.

However, thanks to Pow Wow committe, it was determined that the event would be held. While it was not as big as last year's event as the delay in setting a date cut into promotion time, we had a wonderful time and it was good to see old friends and make new ones. While I never get much time to take photos at these events, I always manage a few.

Jingle Dress From Front

Back View of Jingle Dress

Drummers Take A Break
Color in Motion

Never To Young To Select Your Own Jewelry!
Jewelry Trays and Display
Patrick Assists a Customer
Patrick is always on the look out for something different to amuse the children. This year's featured item is wooden frogs that make frog sounds. Both the children and adults loved them.
A Very Young Jingle Dancer Off To Spend Her Money
I'm Dancer 322. Vote For Me!

Patrick met a local photographer who took around 200 photos at this event. The next day, he showed up with a cd of his work. As is frequently done at Pow Wows, he and Patrick worked out a trade....he selected one of Patrick's native embroidered baseball caps and Patrick got a copy of his photos. I haven't had a chance to view the cd as yet, but know there will be many great photos on it. I will select some of them to share with you at a later date.

Cherokee Nation: First Tribe In U.S. To Be Accredited

CN first tribe to earn DNV accreditation
Monday, 10 August 2009

The Cherokee Nation is the first Native American tribe in the United States and
the first health care system in Oklahoma to receive the Det Norske Veritas
Health care accreditation, which focuses on the quality of patient care for an
entire health care system.

“We are honored to be the first healthcare system in Oklahoma and the first tribal system in the U.S. to receive this accreditation,” Principal Chief Chad Smith said. The DNV system primarily focuses on the overall quality of care of patients who utilize an entire health care system. As part of the accreditation process, the group tracked the care of patients using many parts of the CN Health Services system, including the EMS service, various health centers, the hospital, programs and more. An important aspect in achieving the group’s standards is consistency throughout the entire health care system

Maybe our Congress and Senate should check out the Cherokee's program!

Misrepresentation of American Indian Merchandise

A Santa Fe business accused of misrepresenting the status of American Indian merchandise must pay the state attorney general's office a civil penalty of $10,000.

The attorney general's office announced the consent degree with Golden Bear Trading, Inc., on Monday. The business closed its doors in July due to "economic reasons."

The consent degree stems from a lawsuit filed last year. Authorities alleged that Golden Bear Trading misrepresented jewelry as having been made by noted Indian artist Calvin Begay during three undercover operations.

The consent degree requires the company to comply with the Indian Arts and Crafts Sales Act, which spells out what may be represented as "authentic" Indian arts and crafts.
Golden Bear Trading also must pay $2,255 in restitution to the federal Indian Arts and Crafts Board.

This article appears on this website who granted permission for replicating here:

http://www.nativebiz.com/content/view/3056/141/

If you have interest in reading the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, you can do so at this website:

http://www.elpasosaddleblanket.com/act.htm

2009 Lincoln Indian Club Pow Wow

On July 31, August 1 & 2, 2009, Patrick and I vended at the 33rd annual Lincoln Indian Club Pow Wow in Lincoln, Nebrasa.

It was a very successful event despite the high winds on Sunday. We were forced to leave the sides of our tent down to avoid chasing our product around the arena. By so doing, we created our very own "sweat lodge".

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It was great to see old friends and make new ones. One that I was especially glad to see was a very young "old friend". Her name is Nevaeh Horse, Ponca and Lakota. She is now six years old.

Last year, her Uncle purchased one of my barrettes to add to her lime green regalia. I blogged about her in my August 8, 2008 blog. If you would like to check back, you can see photos of her there.

Nevaeh is not only a year older but has achieved the title of "Little Miss Ponca". This year it was her Father who purchased one of my items for Nevaeh's new jingle dress regalia.

A new friend is pictured here. She is Angelina Nockai. All of this wonderful beadwork on her regalia was done by Angelina herself . She is such a delightful young lady, a college student and an excellent beader. In fact, we loved her work so much that we gave Angelina two baseball caps and commissioned her to bead them for us. When she finishes them, I will post a blog about them as well.

It is always such a pleasure for me to make something that someone wants to add to their regalia! There is no greater honor for me. Here is a young lady wearing one of my feathered hair clips that her Mother purchased for this event.

As you can see, it is the children and young people who fascinate me most. They are the future of our culture. It makes me proud to see them curious about our products, building their regalia and learning to be dance proudly. Here is Patrick discussing beadwork with a young Native "Diva".

I have posted more photos of this event on my Flickr. If you care to take a peek go to:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jstinson/sets/72157621809601647/

Our next Pow Wow is the Sac and Fox of Missouri in Kansas and Nebraska. We look forward to seeing more friends at this event.

Custom Designed Medicine Wheel Totem Earrings

I have a wonderful customer named "Maria". While she may have a "West Side Story", that is not where she lives. She lives in Staten Island. She requested that I make a large, light blue pair of earrings for her and left the design in my hands. Here is design I elected to do.

These earrings were made with elements from the Native American Medicine Wheel. If you (or someone you know), like Maria were born between December 22 and January 19, you are in the Medicine Wheel position of The Earth Renewal Moon.

This is the first moon of the new year and the Spirit Keeper of the North. The animal totem for people born in the Earth Renewal Moon phase is the snow goose. The plant associated with the Earth Renewal Moon is the Birch Tree and the Mineral is Quartz.

I have made a pair of earrings that are 1 1/2" wide and 4" long, feature a Snow Goose in the design. The black beads symbolize the "V" formation of snow goose flight. The long white bugle beads represent the birch trees and the ends of the fringe are quartz crystals.

It is said that Earth Renewal Moon people are to learn to be as clear in receiving and transmiting energy as the quartz crystal. They are as important communicators of the ancient knowledge as the birch tree and as respectful of tradition and ritual as the snow goose.

Earth Renewal Moon people are in a position with potential for great power. They are to be fluid, yet adaptable, prudent, and wise. People in this position have vision, are good ceremonialists and can take large steps in their personal evolvution. They should guard against being "blocked in perfectionism" and strive to take time for fun.

If you are an Earth Renewal Moon person (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) or know someone who is and would like a pair of these earrings, I will be happy to make a pair for you. If you from a different Moon Phase, I would be happy to design a pair with your "Moon" attributes if you contact me with the date.

Maria, I hope you enjoy these earrings! Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee)for inspiring me to design them.

In My Native Homeland...NDN Country

In My Native Homeland...NDN Country is the title of this wonderful collection of Native American Art currently appearing in a Treasury on Etsy. The curator of this collection is Northern Lodge. I hope you will enjoy viewing these pieces as much as I did.

I call your attention to the first piece on the left of the bottom row. It is featured in my Etsy store but was done by friend and collective member, Donel Keeler. This piece, Lakota Wedding, was a timely for me as I have just returned from my niece's wedding.

For her wedding, I beaded Marriage Feathers and did a Native Ceremony following the traditional wedding ceremony. I haven't downloaded photos of the wedding but will do so in the near future.

I want to thank Northern Lodge for this feature. The owner of Northern Lodge is from Colorado and is a Biologist, animal lover, gardener, bird watching, fishing woman, who also loves to canoe, hike, read, sew, and be creative.

Her store on Etsy is a delightful mixture of fiber arts, vintage pieces and even beaded umbilical cord amulets. Here is one of her beaded umbilical cord amulets. Visit her at http://www.northernlodge.etsy.com/

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) Northern Lodge for featuring the Lakota Wedding in your wonderful treasury!

Native Artist: Donel Keeler

This wonderful print is of an original painting done by the award winning Native (Dakota)artist, Donel Keeler. It features a "stampede" of ponies painted in the traditional Native American stylized form.

This colorful print is done in shades of blue, fushia, gold, and burnt umbre. It was done in Donel's signature fashion....on a sheet of columnar analysis pad paper. This use of materials at hand is the Native way! We use what we have to create beauty.

The print is dry mounted on a gold mat and is ready to frame. It is 12" X 16".

This will be a wonderful addition to the collector of Native American art, horse lovers, or anyone who admires clean lines and colorful art. It is available in both my Etsy and Artfire Stores. http://www.jstinson.etsy.com http://www.jstinson.artfire.com

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing. (via jstinson)

New Listing on Etsy and Artfire

This striking teal,orange,and yellow bracelet in my Prairie Rose design was made on my trusty loom. It features an sparkling orange flower with a yellow and crystal center.

The beaded portion of the bracelet is 6 1/2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The silver plated chain and lobster claw clasp make the bracelet adjustable to fit wrists up to 9 inches.

If you like the design but would prefer it in other colors, I have similar ones posted on this site or you can contact me with your specific interests. I would be happy to loom one just for you.

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing

Custom Pendant

Not long ago, I was contacted by a very nice lady who had a pair of native american earrings. She wanted a pendant to match them. After several e-mails, we determined that the best way to approach the situation was for her to send me one of the earrings.

It is often difficult to match the work done by someone else even if you are able to locate the beads. Exact matches are usually not possible. Even dye lots from one batch of the same beads differ from one another. So, I had no idea what I problems that I would face.

She also wanted the pendant to be larger than the earrings. This gets into another set of problems. How do you replicate the original design but enlarge it?

She did not want a necklace, only the pendant. She will be able to change the necklace portion with leather, ribbon, or cord depending on her mood and her apparell.

Next problem. A pair of earrings that one has had for several years will be dulled somewhat due to sunlight, wear, etc. New beads will be brighter.

The pendant is finished and is about as close as I could make it. I just sent the photo off to her and am waiting to hear back. I hope she likes it!

New Listing

This striking black and AB (auroa borealis) white bracelet was made on my trusty loom. It has a somewhat "art deco" feel.

The beaded portion of the bracelet is 6 1/2 inches long and 1 1/8 inches wide. The silver plated chain and lobster claw clasp make the bracelet adjustable to fit wrists up to 9 inches.

If you like the design but would prefer it in other colors, I have similar ones posted on this site or you can contact me with your specific interests. I would be happy to loom one just for you.

Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) for viewing.

Pink Fan Fare Earrings: New Etsy and Artfire Listing

I was requested by one of my customers to make these earrings in pink for her daughter's upcoming birthday. While I had the beads out, I decided to make and list a second pair in my Etsy ( http://www.jstinson.etsy.com ) and Artfire ( http://www.jstinson.artfire.com ) stores.

These have been made in a variety of colors and I would be happy to custom make a pair for you in any color you choose. Many of my customers have become a fan of these Fan Fare earrings and have them in several colors! Let me know what you think!