Anwaatinabiikwe-

This name is referring to when the lake is calm like glass or a mirror. This name or her spirit is described to be in this fashion of calmness. Ojibwe/Anishinaabe.

The woman who named me was amikagaabowiikwe-(iban). She has since passed on. She was known for her traditional ways and language revitalization. My mother’s cousin on the Sargent side, Julia Shingobe was her English name. Amik often referred to me as calm, quiet and peaceful she said that my name suited me, because she could see the calm thoughts around me while watching as I worked with 3-5 year olds in all of their chaos, fun and learning…she said I always maintained the calm. My time with Amik was too short, now I realize that I did not learn as much as I needed to learn from her, she is truly missed and I think of her every time I hear my name. My sadness is waned knowing that she is with family healthy, strong and happy cause she went home( Gagigeminowaanagooziwining-the land of everlasting happiness).