March 17-18, 2001
According to Jacob Grimm, our ancestors often held contests to see who could "find" summer first. This is known in our own time as looking for the first signs of spring. Signs were abundant as the kindred met at the Owen homestead near Erwin, TN for the Summer Finding Blót.
It was a series of "firsts" for the kindred. This was the first time the kindred had met in the Tri-Cities area and the first time Summer Finding had been celebrated by itself after being split from the Feast of Ostara. It was also the first blót hosted by Laurel and her first oath to the kindred was taken. So for both Nature and the kindred, it was a time of new beginnings.
It was a small group that met Saturday afternoon on a cold and cloudy day. Inside however, it was warm and friendly as Laurel had prepared nearly the entire feast by herself! There was chili, beef stew, homemade bread, chocolate cake, cherry pie, and other delectables. After eating, a short hike up the mountain lead to a spectacular view of Roan Mountain.
Since a land taking was scheduled for the next day, Beth suggested we sit out for a while to connect with the local land wights. A perfect spot was found next to the creek. Everyone shared their perceptions and agreed that the wights seemed agreeable to the venture. Afterwards, everyone adjourned to the log cabin for sumbel. A warm fire and many rounds put all in a festive mood.
The next morning started cloudy but eventually turned clear and bright. More of the kindred showed up for a great breakfast of eggs, sausage, and biscuits. Then it was time for the blót.
Beth officiated as gyðja. First the group performed a land taking. Fire was carried around the four corners of Laurel's land and she declared her intent to live in harmony with the wights. Next the Vé to the Aesir was dedicated. Laurel and Russell had carved runes into the large granite boulder at the center of the Vé. This was followed by dedicating the Vé to the Vanir next to the garden. It was here that Laurel took her first oath.
After the blót the group took another walk in the woods and spent a couple of hours socializing. Then it was time to head home. It had been a truly satisfying weekend.
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