July 17-18 , 2004

An Oath Taken

Big South Fork Recreation Area provided the backdrop for this year’s Founding Day Blót. Campers started arriving early Saturday afternoon and shortly after that, so did the rain. Fortunately, this year we were able to secure one of the group camping areas that come complete with covered pavilions, so we were able to stay dry.

Saturday afternoon was spent playing guitar, conversing and, once the rain stopped, setting up camp. There was a great turnout, with most members and many friends and family members able to attend.

Once the sun went down, everyone gathered around the fireplace in the pavilion for sumbel. The gods and goddesses were toasted, family was remembered and boasts and hopes for the future were made.

Following sumbel and, of course, kippers, conversation lasted deep into the wee hours of the morning, with the last of the group not hitting the sack until sunrise.

Sunday morning was damp, but the rain held off. Several other members arrived about mid-morning, and soon after that kindred members gathered to discuss “kindred business.” After the meeting, Cliff led a blót to Tyr. During the kindred rites portion of the blót, Herbert took his Elder oath and was presented with a beautiful hammer crafted by the goði, Cliff.

Feast soon followed, and of course, there were more tasty dishes than the group could consume. There were hot dogs, brats and fresh fruit to name a few, and, as always, many desserts. Now full after feast, the group began camp site clean up and tent tear down and headed home after a great weekend.