June 16-17 , 2007

A little Raeder family bonding in the sun

Frozen Head State Park was the site of this year's Midsummer Blot. Instead of the usual primitive campground, the kindred opted for one of the group camp sites in the developed section. It was just the right size for the dozen or so participants. The kids had plenty of room to romp around the woods. Perhaps due to the drought conditions this year, the bugs were not too bad. A nice breeze kept things from getting too hot.

With this being the longest day of the year, it took a while before dark fell so that sumbel could begin. The three traditional rounds went fairly quickly this time, and some prodding from the Jarl was needed to get open sumbel started. Afterwards it was time, as always, for kippers. Nothing like a snack of small fish right before bedtime to cap off a great sumbel.

Sunday dawned bright and clear. It took a while for the sun to penetrate the dense foliage of the campsite. Around noon, Herbert led a blot to Balder. He reminded everyone once again that Balder was a well-rounded character, an able warrior as well as being dearly loved by all the folk. Herbert also suggested that, just like the season when nature reaches its full potential, so we too should strive to be all that we can.

After the blot came the usual pot-luck feast. Many delightful items were shared, but Spence's crock-pot pork was probably the biggest hit, judging by how everyone dug into it. The group spent another couple of hours enjoying the delightful weather before heading home.

Click here to view some photos from the weekend