October 20-21, 2007

The Thrudheim vei

We gathered together at Steve's home this year for our Winter Nights weekend. Guests began to arrive Saturday afternoon with the promise of the Jarl's home-grilled ribs and chicken (cooked on the Mac Daddy Grill O' the World) to look forward to. The weather couldn't have been better, and we were honored to have a large turnout with many guests.

While the meat cooked on the grill, guests visited and enjoyed the sunshine out on the newly refurbished deck. About 7:30, the grilling was done and it was time to eat. Many brought side dishes to go with the ribs and chicken, and plates were full with delicious fare.

After dinner, there was more visiting until after sunset, when the fire was lit and it was time for sumbel. A total of seventeen circled the fire ring for our traditional three round sumbel -- our largest group in quite a long time. It was wonderful to have so many gathered together in frith to participate in this event, and the energy and emotion were plentiful.

Following sumbel, some members left for home to prepare for the next day's events, while others found a place to rest at Steve's -- in guest beds indoors, or tents outdoors.

Sunday kicked off bright and early with the home-cooked BigBreakfastR, featuring biscuits and gravy, pancakes, eggs and more. There was plenty to eat, and even some left for those returning to the house a little later in the morning.

Outside, enjoying the sunshine, some of the kids and several of the adults tossed the football around while others enjoyed the weather on the deck.

Blót started at noon, and Felecia led a very heartfelt and energetic rite that honored Freya, the disir, and our ancestors. Having so many gathered around the vei to honor the Gods and our ancestors was, indeed, a wonderful thing.

To wrap things up, as if we needed to eat more, the traditional stone soup was made in the afternoon and enjoyed by all.

Eventually, members and guests, with full hearts and bellies returned to their homes after another very memorable Winter Nights weekend.

Click here to view some photos from the weekend