Isabelle Patenaude-
1881
A wonderful mother of seventeen she was
Isabelle was joyful and happy just
because.
Children, grandchildren and friends agree
She had charisma that made her feel free.
Wild berries and vegetables she’d preserve
-Blood sausage; a valued part of her
reserve.
Food and clothes was a big item for sure
Leather moccasins sewn from hides cured.
Seventeen children were a large labor pool
Gathering berries and fish was ever so
cool-
Quilts and pillows stuffed with feathers
we’d hug
Willow brooms beat dust from braided rugs.
A beautiful life; everybody valued they’d
say
The Ten Commandments upheld they’d pray.
-Cooperation and hard work prevents
disorder.
Team work kept family and community in order.
Written By Carol Howard Vulliamy- 2009
