Sunday, September 22, 2013

The Pendleton Blanket

Chief Joseph Blanket, PowWows.com

When you think of Pendleton, what comes to mind? Wool shirts? Plaid? Blankets?
When I traveled to Montana last summer and visited the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, we went into Faught's Blackfeet Trading Post. The first thing that caught my attention was the row of Pendleton Blankets hanging just beneath the ceiling. I loved the colorful, geometric patterns and soon realized these blankets are very popular among the Native People.
My Lakota friend, who escorted me around Montana, dances in pow wows. While I stayed in her home, she showed me her regalia--the outfits she wears while dancing--and pointed out a beautiful earthy red dress made from a Pendleton blanket. All of her regalia is special and ornately decorated with shell, bone, feathers, and other natural objects depending on the dance style. It didn't take long for me to realize Pendleton blankets offer warmth, function, durability, and beauty. If I had room in my suitcase, I would have purchased one.
This morning, I opened an email from PowWows.com. They are holding a drawing and giving away a Chief Joseph Pendleton Blanket. It's absolutely beautiful (see the picture above). If you're interested in entering this contest, just click on this link: Pendleton Blanket Giveaway 
Leave a comment and let me know if you entered. If you end up winning, leave a comment. If you love Pendleton Woolen Mills (they're goods are made right here in the U.S.A.), leave a comment.
Looking forward to reading your thoughts!
Blessings!
~Linda

By the way, I hear it's going to be a long, cold winter. Hmm, maybe I better buy a Pendleton blanket. If I don't win one, that is.