Today was a light day for us in Iqaluit. We had a fantastic workshop about furs and even got to practice sewing just like the native Inuk do. Through hard work and patience we learned how much effort actually went into a pair of fur mittens or even a jacket. The teacher, Ms. Pascal, was kind enough to let us try on some of the outfits she had made (Mr. Magee obviously took advantage). These furs were tanned which means that they don't smell after being exposed to a damp environment. They last quite a long time which is why you pay so much for them. We used scissors, but some of the Inuk students used an Ulu which is a half moon shaped knife commonly used by women. This knife had many uses including cooking, skinning, slicing and smoothing. The blade allows for full arm pressure when slicing between the fat and the fur of a freshly killed animal.
Our afternoon consisted of sports in the gym including basketball, volleyball and soccer. We had over two hours of running and exercise. Tonight will be the final pot luck feast and an evening social banquet for the students. Most of the students are sad to be leaving tomorrow, but are looking forward to seeing their friends and family when they get home. Our flight leaves tomorrow around mid day. We have a quick stop over in Ottawa until our flight home arriving at 9:10pm. Parents are reminded that we will be bused to Osler High School, and we expect to roll in around 10:30pm. We have cell phones so the students can contact you when we are on our way.
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