My niece, grand nephew and I attended the powwow at Muckleshoot yesterday and had a terrific time.

Unfortunately, my smartphone simply cannot capture an event like this; the video I took is blurry and most of the images are, too, because I tried using the zoom feature.

More than 1200 tribal members from more than 60 tribes from Canada through South America attended. They danced, sang and prayed. It was extremely moving.

The event, which included contests for best dancing, was loud, joyful. and colorful. The regalia they wore was stunning.

I really can’t describe a powwow in words. If you ever get a chance to attend one, don’t hesitate.  From wee youngsters to elders, tribal members pay tribute to and reveal their deep abiding connections to the land, to their ancestors. and to their various cultures.

I bought a small drum with a wonderful, soulful resonant sound (although the audio rendition below doesn’t do it justice; it sounds tinnier here than in real life):