My Gwich’in name is Nagoohiindak…it means “good with my hands”. I feel the responsibility to live up to my name, as well as a responsibility to heal our communities and Mother Earth. With the gifts I have been given and the paths that I have been granted with, I will fulfill these responsibilities. I have been fortunate to partake in the amazing opportunity to work with Environmental Youth Alliance and Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House (MPNH) as an intern.
I found a small patch of land 3.5 ft wide by 61 ft long, in which I am in the process of transforming into an edible garden for MPNH. I am slowly and yet simultaneously, very quickly learning about 
urban gardening, the do’s the don’ts, the difficulties and the joys…weeding, mud, mulching, burlap sacks, compost, leaves, soil PH, worms, ants, sun, rain, snow/slush, and more rain!
Coming from the Yukon originally, I have very rapidly discovered the realities of urban gardening in a temperate rainforest/city, such as smelling KFC in the air every Tuesday whilst working in the garden. Also, I have realized how very much I appreciate permafrost!! I have been battling with eternal weeds that seem to grow into the depths of the earth, no matter how much digging is done I will never find the roots! Therefore I shall smother them with love…and burlap mulch! (Thank you JJ Bean for your generous donations!)
I have found my niche here at MPNH and my time is occupied with researching how to grow a garden: effective mulching, finding companion plants, finding donations and funding, discovering the many grassroots people and organizations that are passionate about sustainably growing our own food and being a positive element of the community. I feel as if I am in school and getting paid for it!
The best job is done with passion and love, especially when it comes to growing and 
nurturing life. I’m excited about continuing on this journey and sharing my experiences! Mahsi-Cho! (Big thanks!)
Melissa Frost
No comments:
Post a Comment