This weekend I visited the Textile Museum in Washington, DC to see an exhibit titled “Colors of the Oasis: Central Asian Ikats.” Ikat is a fabric that originated in the early 19^th century in an area now known as Uzbekistan, formerly part of the Soviet Union. During this time, craftsmen had access to textiles traded throughout India, China and Iran. They produced colorful fabrics through a special technique where the yarn is bound and dyed several times before weaving into interesting patterns. This process is unique because fabric is usually died after its creation.

I love the look of foreign fabrics, as they are a reflection of various cultures. In this exhibit, there was a large collection of ikats from the 19^th century that were made into elaborate robes (a.k.a chapan or chalet). In order to learn as much as possible about this unique material, I took advantage of a tour led by the docent. She informed me that in the 1800s only individuals from the elite class wore ikats due to the time and money it took to make them. They exchanged ikats as gifts at political or economic meetings and also used them as dowries for brides. However, over time people from middle to lower incomes wore ikats but just for special occasions.

Ikat Display

The ikats on display varied in color, size and patterns. The robes made for women were more tailored by the waste and arms than for men. Some patterns were shaped in figures that represent nature (e.g. trees, flowers and birds) and meant to reflect spirituality. The ikat robes on the outside were either all silk or silk mixed with cotton and on the inside were all cotton in a different pattern . I also learned that many Jewish craftsmen made ikats during this time. They mostly died their yarn in blue, which differed from red, the more popular color. The docent informed me that this region is hot during the day and cold at night, which explained why people wore layers underneath the ikats. Furthermore, she said that individuals in Uzbekistan continue to wear ikats today, but usually for special events like weddings and other cultural events.

I completely enjoyed the detail and vibrant colors used to make each ikat. While most ikats are made into robes, I was told that they have been transformed into other types of clothing and wall hangings. I wonder if there are any merchants in the U.S. that sell ikat products. If you know of any, let me know. I’d love to wear something made in this incredible fabric.

This past weekend my friend Steph and I visited our college friend Becky in Seattle. On Saturday after a six-mile hike at Squak Mountain State Park, we decided to have Vietnamese for lunch back in the city. Becky took us the International District where there is strip mall after strip mall of Asian restaurants, bakeries and grocery stores. I thought we were going to a casual café; however, we ended up at one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in the city, Tamarind Tree. Entering the restaurant, I noticed that the patrons were mostly Vietnamese, a sign to me that the food must be good and authentic. We were seated on the outside patio, which looked like a hidden oasis. It was sheltered by bamboo trees and decorated in an Asian motif.

For lunch, we started with spring rolls that were filled with steamed prawns, fresh herbs and rice noodles and served with a side of peanut sauce. To drink I had kumquat soda with fresh kumquats, a very refreshing beverage. For my main dish, I ordered Bun Bo Hue, a spicy noodle soup with large round rice noodle in anchovy broth with seafood and pork slices served with fresh bean sprouts, shredded morning glory and banana blossoms. At first I was a little reluctant because the seafood and pork slices reminded me of sliced spam. However, I focused on the taste, not the look, which helped me enjoy my meal. I found the dish to be very flavorful and not too light or heavy, which was perfect after a nice workout. This was probably my third time eating Vietnamese food. I have yet to be disappointed and want to continue to explore new dishes.

Throughout my trip, we sampled other great ethnic cuisines, including Mexican fish tacos and Japanese sushi, and explored fun local neighborhoods, from Queen Anne to Pike Market. There is so much to do and see in Seattle. I can’t wait to go back to eat at more local restaurants, sample more Washington wines, visit more areas, and catch up with good friends.

On Friday evening, I attended Lina and Paul’s fusion wedding that blended East and West spirituality: Hindu, Native American, Unitarian and Earth-blessings. Why so much diversity? Well, Paul, a Caucasian, lived in New Mexico and learned to appreciate Native American culture, as did Lina through a trip last fall. In addition, Lina and Paul, members of All Souls Church (Unitarian), met through the Green Souls program, which focuses on environmental issues. Therefore, their ceremony truly reflected the combination of their spiritual beliefs and their passions.

The wedding celebration took place at Woodend Nature Sanctuary – Audubon Naturalist Society, a symbolic location for the bride and groom. The evening started in a small garden with a concert of Native American music. By 7PM, all guests arrived, and the wedding began on time. Throughout the entire ceremony, explanations were given for each ritual, which gave me a better understanding and a sense of engagement.

Processional and Opening – the wedding started off like most Christian weddings where the groom came in first to wait on his bride’s arrival. However, the bride’s entrance was completely different than what I expected. Lina did not come in after a procession of bridesmaids; instead, the women in her family surrounded her and led her into the garden area. If you recall, I was with Lina a month ago when she selected her dress. I cried then but was way more emotional this time. Lina looked stunning and so in the moment; I was incredibly happy for her.

Once the bride and groom were together, their mothers welcomed their child’s future spouse. Lina’s mom presented Paul a candle on a decorated copper tray, and Paul’s mom placed her hands on Lina’s face and whispered something personal in her ear. Reverend Green of All Souls Church welcomed everyone, which was followed by the fathers giving garlands to their child’s future spouse to signify two souls proclaiming their love and acceptance of each other.

Prayer, Reflections and Pledge – a moving poem written by Paul was read; a reading and reflections were provided; and family and friends gave a pledge of support.

Hindu Ceremonial Rituals & Wedding Vows – the wedding continued with spiritual rituals that I had never seen before:

Hasta Melap (Blissful Union) – friends of the couple tied Lina and Paul’s right hands together with a shear white scarf to symbol eternal love.

Mengal Fera (Holy Circumambulation) – while the scarf was still tied to them, a small fire on the ground was made in front of them. Depending on the faith, the fire can signify spark of life, Universal witness, Earth symbol, sustenance, Spirit and the presence of God. At that time, Lina’s parents made offerings to sustain the fire, and then Lina and Paul walked around it in commitment to the four sacred Hindu wedding vows:

Dharma – walking in the highest path of good, towards each other, their families, society and the Universe

Artha – generating and receiving with joy the abundance of the Universe.

Karma – celebrating life, love respect and passion in life.

Moksha – taking the journey of spiritual growth and evolution.

Next, Lina’s brother reads Saptapadi, which are the seven steps the couple will take to symbolize the seven pillars of marriage: receiving abundance; physical health; spiritual growth; love, gratitude and support; service; intellectual and personal growth; and truth and loyalty.

Afterwards, Paul presented Lina with a Mangual Sutra, a sacred necklace, to symbolize his love for her.

Personal Vows and Pronouncement – Lina and Paul read emotional and loving vows to one another before they exchanged rings. They were pronounced husband and wife, which was followed by a passionate kiss and a blessing by the parents.

Afterwards, another blessing was made though a circle of love by family and friends. This is where the parents circled Lina and Paul and placed one hand their shoulders. Next, their immediate family placed their hands on the shoulders of the parents, followed by the rest of us circling the family and placing our hands on the shoulders of the family. This powerful and energizing gesture showed Lina and Paul that we support and love them. What an incredible and spiritual moment.

After the ceremony, we partied all night long. There was a cocktail hour, a dinner with both American and Indian food and dancing to American and Bollywood music. I had a blast and enjoyed the friendly group of family and friends. Lina and Paul perfectly fused together their cultures for this special occasion. Their spirit and love for the earth and one another is so incredible that I have no doubt that there love is everlasting.

Congratulations to you both!