I have been having fun doing my journal work. It has been fun remembering all my experiences on the Navajo Reservation. I loved the ceremonies the best and all the dances. They would dress up in very elaborate costumes, and the music was incredible, which inspired me to start collecting Native American music, and I now have a lot. The music is so spiritual and haunting, and there is always a story within the song. I did one of the watercolours about a Native American dancing a hunting dance. It was supposed to give the hunter luck in his hunt. The other is just one of a Native American with all the extensive warpaint on his face, which was also used for the ceremonies and dances.
The dance that I loved the best was the Maiden dance. The men line up ,and the maidens choose someone to dance with. Funny enough, they asked me to do it, and even though I am shy, I did. I chose someone I was just friends with, and we did the dance. You are supposed to be then promised to that man, but of course I was married at the time, even though it was a terrible marriage. I really had so much fun doing it. Here is a link to watch the dance a bit. Also, I have included a pic of a Navajo maiden choosing the man she wanted to dance with. I wish that I had a pic of me in that costume, but sadly, there were no cameras around, but I will never forget it.
I do so wish that Joe had been with me. I was very sad in my heart during that time, but I will never forget how the Navajo people opened their hearts to me, and one day I will go back and thank them for their kindess and love. They are a wonderful people, and so giving, and funny enough, though I was the teacher, I learned so much more from the children and of course from the entire tribe.
27 comments:
Wonderful pictures!!
Lovely water colors and an experience not to be cherished.
I´ve read a bit about native groups philosophy, North American groups included. I think it is enlightening, at this point when most of us think of Nature as something apart from us, sort of an entity to be either protected or just exploited.
I´d love to visit the Navajo´s someday. Lucky you to have lived among them.
Guesse I left a NOT in the first sentence by mistake. Pls forgive me.
Maybe some of those experiences of the past are what has made you appreciate the life you have now, and the blessing of finding Joe. I'm so happy the Indian people were so loving and inclusive, and helped heal your heart.
I am so appreciating your work, Micki. It's been enlightening especially because of my Native American Full Moon art doll series. Almost done with all 12, just posted #11. Perhaps your lovely journal can be published someday.
MIcki,
I suppose a translator shows on top of the page in every blog. This has been very helpful, since it has enabled me to read texts I can´t even identify in which language they´ve been writen.
Most important: you will love Mrs. Moen´s blog. Be sure to visit it. The angel is her creation.
Wow Micki....those pics are great!!! Dzintra♥x
Beautiful water colors and story! In a few weeks Denver holds the annual Indian Market. My sister and I have made a tradition of going. There's lots of music and dancing and lots and lots of art and jewelry. An amazing time. Thank you for sharing your story!
Your work is really wonderful, Micki. You really had an in depth picture of their customs and way of life.
I do hope that you and Joe can both go back together and meet some of your "friends" from when you were there.
Wonderful Memories you have -even in bad times there are good times to be had.
You are tempting me to pull out my watercolors.
Would be good therapy to just create and relax a bit.
What do you use for the journal?
Debbie
Happy New Year! What a wonderful memory to have! Even if it was a sad time in your life... Glad things seem so happy for you now!
What an interesting cross-cultural experience! Remember the song, "I Hope You'll Dance"? I'm glad you did!
I love your art and your writing Micki. You have a good spirit.
Thanks dear for this nice picture, It so nice to see the national dressing, to read experiences, to listen a music about the ancestor all over the world. Have a nice time. Loredana.
What a great post! Thanks for sharing.
They are beautiful Micki. Thanks also for the link so we can have a look at the dance. This is so interesting!
Wonderful paintings and memories Micki! I live in a First Nations (that's what they are called in Yukon, not indians or native americans) community. Maybe one day I'll write about it.
simply stunning work Micki!
Lovely post. I do believe though every step of the journey leads us to where we're supposed to be! For me its with my dearheart Richard, our 7th anniversary today too although we've been together 22 yrs in March. My first marriage lasted 13yrs and brought me my wonderful children, but I wouldn't have been able to see my way to Richard at 16. lol.
A lovely story Micki. Very touching.
Lovely water colours and memories for you.
What lovely memories. I think when we go through bad stuff it makes us stronger and better... so you now have Joe and it's really good!
I had a crappy first marriage too.
I love your pictures and your memories. Every experience we have makes up who we are. Keep sharing them with us.
Wonderful Story Micki! I love your paintings and thank you for sharing the you tube vid. I love the mini maiden best. Never to young to start!
Wonderful pictures and memories.
I enjoy Native American music also
Thanks for sharing
What a wonderful sentiment. Thank you for sharing your heart and story. I agree that as aduklts if we are open can always learn something from our children, or children's children.
Jane
My dear Micki - your experience sounds like healing to a wounded heart.I too , love everything Native American
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