At the annual meeting of the National Association of Public Adjusters, held at the VEA Newport Beach Marriott, Mr. Matt Blumkin, incoming President, wanted to share his wife’s Japanese culture to the spouses of the members of the association. A tea ceremony demonstration with narration and the serving of okashi and tea were presented to the 30 guests who were from all parts of the United States.

For many, this was a first time experience. Somi Gill prepared the tea on the misonodana while Soketsu Guterres served as hanto. Soho Duffey was the shokyaku and helped Mrs. Ruth Blumkin, Matt’s mother, who participated as a guest on the stage, with the proper guest procedures. 

A shikishi by Urasenke’s gyotei,Nagai Sokei sensei, had the kanji, “Buji”, which was selected as it meant “safe”. However, it was explained that whether good or bad, we embrace all experiences that meet them on their path through life. The mizusashi was a blue and white sometsuke bamboo motif with a colorful decorative red lid. The natsume from Wajima had a seasonal balloon flower decoration and was used as a remembrance of the Noto earthquake. The chashaku had one side lacquered with the Iccho or gingko leaf and had a poetic name of  “kajitsu” or good day.

Mrs. Blumkin was pleased that we were able to share her Japanese culture with the group and commented that the attendance to the event was the best it has been. The guests were able to leave with a positive and uplifting end to their weeklong conference.