My very first pair of moccasins was given to me by my father. He took me into a shop in Calgary back in the late 60's where they sold real smoked tanned moccasins made by the local tribes in the surrounding area of southern Alberta. I loved them and wore them until they eventually grew holes in the soles. I took them apart and repaired the worn out bits, and that is how I figured out how to make moccasins. Our frequent visits to Banff often took me to the Trading Post across the bridge where, for many decades, the native people would bring their beautiful crafts to trade. I would revel in the smell of the smoked leather and delight in the intricate beadwork. These visits were a great inspiration to me and I became an avid beader in the years ensuing. My big moment was when I found out that a fully beaded elkhide dress I had made and sold to a collector in Victoria had made its way to the Banff Trading Post, only to be subsequently sold to a famous decorator in the States who proudly displayed it in Architectural Digest! Thngs DO go around in circles...Anyway, I would like to share with you some pairs that I have made recently . .

These are the REAL THING! Beatiful smoke tanned mooshide , with ankle wraps and long laces. The gathered toe is typical of the Stoney Tribe who reside near Mt. Yumnuska near Canmore. People still wear these for everyday use, and they are wonderful in the cold dry snow!       .

My Mom wanted slippers for Christmas. With forget-me-nots. And fur. I used commercial tanned buffalo and a beautiful faux fur which feels all the world like sheepskin. They are just as cozy as can be.     . .

This is the grandpa version. the tongues are free, here, with little laces.         .

I did these for a friend in Bragg Creek, Alberta. Again, buffalo hide, but wth rabbit fur trim,. The butterfly is big medicine for her, so now she has them with every footstep.         .

I made these for my man for a Christmas gift. I call them skywalker slippers. The tongues are navy blue wool backed with suede, and the beads are very tiny. The fur is faux--save a wolf!       .