March 18-19, 2006

Make and his son, Matthew

It was a small but hungry bunch who showed up early at the Jarlhof for the Big Breakfast event early Saturday morning. The idea was to recreate some of our earlier experiences making breakfast together up at Laurel's cabin. However, the Swedish Chef (aka Steve) would have none of that and prepared breakfast all by himself for his guests. The fare consisted of scrambled eggs, bacon, and made from scratch biscuits and gravy. Alas, there was no Spam. Afterwards, the group watched the first film of the extended Lord of the Rings collection. The plan had been to watch all three extended versions but that would have meant about 11 hours of viewing.

Early in the evening a few more kindred members joined the group for sumbel. There was the usual heavy snacking first, including Steve's famous Jarl's Bane Bean Dip (TM). Once properly fortified, the group commenced to sumbel in the usual fashion.

The next day dawned a bit cloudy as the group reconvened at the Himes household for blot and feast. Herbert led the group to the garden area near the pond to hold blot to Mother Frigga. Given all the family events of late, it seemed fitting to honor the Lady of Asgard. Herbert spoke eloquently about her role among the other gods and goddesses and how many in the kindred have grown close to her. At the end, the offering was poured into the pond similar to accounts in the lore which speak of Frigga's association with fens.

Returning to the house, the feasting commenced. There was ham, a casserole, several salads and sides, and several desserts. The afternoon was spent catching up and planning for the beginning of camping season.

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