Thruðheim Kindred May Blót

The kindred headed south to Gee Creek Campground on the Hiwassee River to celebrate Walpurgisnacht and May Blót. Early arrivals camped out Friday night with most of the folks arriving on Saturday. The rest came down for just the day on Sunday. After weeks of hot, dry weather, it turned cool and rainy. Things got a bit soggy at times!

Saturday was spent setting up camp and letting the kids swim in the river. The rain arrived later in the afternoon and stayed until the evening. At times, it got pretty cozy under the tarps. Fortunately, the rain ended in time to hold seidh. Credit goes to our three seeresses who were able to work under those conditions. Afterwards, sumbel was held around the campfire and was especially delightful this time. Johnny and Barb from Skaldheim Kindred were there and recited numerous poems some of which were original creations. Songs were sung and toasts were made by all. Everyone commented how much fun it was.

Sunday dawned clear but then turned cloudy with light showers off and on. The games were held in spite of a few rain delays. The next order of business was the Maypole dance. Bernhard had made a Maypole for the kindred as promised at Yule. Beth took flowers from everyone and weaved them into it. Then Laurel and Barb sang an Old English song while the kindred wove the streamers. The plan looked good on paper but the execution of the dance left something to be desired! Everyone had great fun however.

Next the blót was held during which Dea took her second oath. You could feel the electricity in the air as she grasped the oath ring and recited her vow. Following the blót was the feast. It was its normal sumptuous self and overflowed the table. Everyone agreed that the weekend had been a success.

View Some Photos

• Cooling off.
• Trent takes the plunge.
• Wyatt skips rocks.
• Ta da!
• Johnny from Skaldheim.
• Laurel smiles bravely in the rain.
• Kiwll da wabbit, kiwll da wabbit...
• Preferred parking.
• Cliff holds court.
• Game Boys.
• Gang of three.
• The May Queen.
• Maypole flowers.
• We have to dance?
• All tied up.
• Food!