My first Powwow

We have company in for the weekend, my brother Kevin and my best friend from college Tyler Schaeffer.  Last night we all treked up to Ft. Pierce, for the 40th annual Florida Indian Hobbyist Association (FIHA) Powwow. It was the first time I have ever been to a Powwow and did not really know what to expect. My two sons, Landon and Bradley, had a great time. They had a chance to learn some real Native American history, listen to the music and even dance around the circle.  We saw a real tee-pee as well as taste some buffalo burgers. Uncle Kevin bought them some interesting Indian wooden frogs that can make noise as well.  Of course getting their own feather head dress and Indian flutes were a big thrill as well.  Seeing all of the costumes from the various tribes represented and hearing some of the tribal history was very enlightening to me.  I also learned that there seems to be a disproportionate amount of US Service veterans among the Native tribes.  I was not aware of this, as well as how deeply patriotic they are.  It was a great evening.  Bonnie, even got some earrings made out of real wampum.

Also, for Landon's spring break we are participating in the flat Stanley project, an international literacy project.  We have to take flat Stanley with us on vacation and keep a record of what we do.  One of the tribal elders actually knew about flat Stanley and was only too happy to pose with him for us. All in all, it was a great night and adventure my family and I will not forget.