Native to New Mexico: The 26th Annual Gathering of Nations Pow Wow

These last few weeks have been pretty incredible—riding around town and the Albuquerque area, taking in the sites and the numerous events that are happening this spring.

This past Friday, I had the opportunity to attend the 26th Annual Gathering of Nations Pow Wow at the University of New Mexico’s athletic space known as “The Pit.” It is the most prominent Native American pow wow in the world, and I was glad that I was able to experience it my first month in the Southwest.

The event symbolizes the richness and the diversity of Native American and First People tribes from all over the world. Event organizers estimate that 500 tribes from the United States, Canada and beyond participated in the pow wow--coming together to crown a new Miss Indian World, compete in tribal dance competitions and celebrate their cultures through live music performances by prominent Native singers and musicians.

Additionally, over 600 vendors opened up shop for the three-day extravaganza that lasted from April 23 through April 25. There was plenty of Native-made jewelry for sale, and handicrafts abounded, but the best thing to had by spectators were the memories of this wonderful celebration. It was fascinating to see the variations of Native dress and to feel the warmth, hospitality and uplifting energy of all the First Peoples in attendance. I also enjoyed meeting flute maker and recording artist Guillermo Martinez and artist Viento--both, very talented men. Check out Guillermo's and Bamboo Cedar Oak's CD "Songs of Our Grandfathers." You won't be disappointed!










(Flute by Guillermo Martinez)


Here is a short video from the day. Keep in mind, it only does mild justice to the real thing:

Uncle Paulie Feels the Artistic Spirit in Santa Fe

I'm a little behind on my blogging because I'm still getting settled in. My flip camera broke, but I managed to upload this video of our overnight trip to Santa Fe and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. It was a very emotional experience learning about O'Keeffe and how she finally she felt she had found her "country" in New Mexico. I feel the same way. Last week, I met a lovely woman from Santa Fe, who works one day a week in an antique mall in Albuquerque. She knew O'Keeffe and raved about her sense of humor. Georgia O'Keeffe was a witness at her wedding and signed her marriage certificate. What a cool story!

Looks Like We Made It!

Well, we finally made it to Albuquerque, and the move was pretty seamless. Mom and Dad brought me my car and some things from their garage in Washington State, so it has been nice to spend some time with them as well. It was definitely strange moving into an apartment without seeing it first, but it's pretty good and the neighborhood is full of retail stores and local eating establishments. Here is a video documenting my first day. Cheers!

Spring Has Sprung in NYC...Well, Sort Of.

Well, this past Sunday was an amazing spring day in New York, so I took to the streets, and headed over to Tudor City on the East Side and then up to Columbus Circle and Central Park to meet my pal Naomi Watts and her ever-loving sidekick, Chester, a shiba inu with the best personality on the planet. I really do love him, but it is difficult hanging out with him because he totally upstages me…and he’s cuter!

It’s a rainy Monday now, and really gross outside, as I sit and count the hours until I fly out to Albuquerque. So, as a pick me up from the winter blahs that just won’t end, here is my video tribute to a beautiful April day in the “Big Apple.” This is Uncle Paulie signing off from New York...