Thrudheim Kindred Charming of the Plow Blót

A celebration bidding welcome to the coming spring was held Sunday, February 14 at the home of Bernhard and Shari in Knoxville. The eight adults and four children held a Charming of the Plow blót to encourage good crops and fruitfulness in general for the coming year.

The weather was cool but clear as the group gathered near the garden area. Elise sounded the horn to call the gods and goddesses to witness the proceedings. Cliff spoke of the Vanir and Disir and the bounty of the earth that is hoped for during this time. As a symbol of giving something back to the earth, a loaf of bread was buried in the garden. Both Frey and Freyja were hailed by the congregation.

Two new members officially joined the kindred by swearing probabtional oaths. Beth and James were warmly welcomed by kindred members. They will be valued additions to the group. Erika took a child's oath to increase her knowledge of the gods and lore.

A feast was held after the blót and featured several different kinds of soups and breads brought by the members. Later the group gathered around a fire outdoors for the sumbel. Cliff and Elise also jumped over the fire in the hopes of starting a family soon.

To finish off the evening Beth and Bernhard gave a small talk on how to brew mead and its historical importance in European history. After cake and coffee the group departed for home.