June 18-19, 2005

The heat and humidity slacked off a bit as the kindred gathered to celebrate Midsummer. Due to scheduling problems, it was decided not to hold a camping event this time. Instead, sumbel was held at the Koch homestead Saturday night and the blot at the Himes homestead on Sunday afternoon.

Folks started arriving in the early evening for sumbel. After the usual catching up, Bernhard fired up the grill and cooked bratwurst and hotdogs to get the hungry heathens through the night. There was also a fine assortment of chips, salsa, and bean dip to round things out. Once it started to get dark, the fire pit was lit and sumbel was begun. It was a mixed affair with boasts and hopes as well as remembrances for loved ones recently lost. After the traditional three rounds, open sumbel was declared, which went on for some time. After sumbel, and in lieu of a bonfire, fireworks were used to create a sun wheel. Then it was time for that old favorite - kippers! It was early Sunday morning as the group headed home.

Sunday was bright and warm as the kindred reassembled shortly after noon to celebrate Sunna's ride across the sky. The group was a bit subdued from the night before. After everyone had arrived, Herbert lead the group through a path in the woods to the blot site. He then performed his first blot for the kindred in honor of Balder, the Shining One. Herbert spoke quite eloquently of Balder's role and relevance to our lives today. Then it was back to the house for the feast! The highlights this time were Steve's marinated chicken and Suzanne's peach dessert.

Afterwards, there was good conversation out on the deck while enjoying the beautiful weather.

The final activity, and another reason for not camping this time, was a trip downtown to Market Square and the Preservation Pub to enjoy a concert by Gaelic Storm. They played to a lively and appreciative audience. Many a pint of Guinness flowed listening to the Irish tunes.

Click here to view some photos from the weekend   (requires Flash7)