December 15-16, 2007

Thrudheim Kindred -- Yule 2007

Beth and Ted hosted our 2007 Yule festivities, continuing the trend from the last few years where those with the new home host this special weekend. The weather outside was seasonal, with light rain on-and-off, however, inside there was a great deal of warmth provided by Ted and Beth's cozy home, and a host of warm-hearted folk gathered together to honor the Gods and celebrate Yule.

Most of the visitors arrived a little after 5:00 p.m. Saturday and, of course, quickly found themselves immersed in great conversation and full from a delicious array of snacks. We never want for good friends and food at a Thruðheim event, and this Yule was no exception.

Before we knew it, it was time to gather around in sumbel circle to honor the Gods and our ancestors, and brag, boast or make a hope for the future in the presence of kin and dear friends. Many believe that at this time of year we are closer than ever to the Gods, and this particular sumbel was extremely powerful. Seemingly, with Bragi's blessing, the words spoken during this sumbel were eloquent, poignant and moving, once again confirming that as we sit together in this rite, we build stronger bonds as friends, kinsman, and folk, in turn bringing us closer to the Gods. It was definitely a sumbel to remember.

Following sumbel, there was more merriment and visiting until, eventually, the visitors made their separate ways home to rest up with warm thoughts of the evening still dancing in their heads.

Sunday arrived with clearer weather outside and the same warmth and hospitality inside. Guests started arriving shortly after 11:00 a.m. bearing gifts and more delicious fare for feast. Early afternoon found us gathered around the vei for our Yule blót, presided over by Cliff.

Following our traditional Yule blót format, the Gods were honored, the bread boar was sacrificed, and our wishes, written in runes, were tied to the Yule wreath, which was burned outdoors to carry our wishes to the Gods. Cliff was in fine form performing godhi duties, and made sure to point out the importance of family during this time of year. Like everything during this weekend, this blót just felt good -- there is no easy way to describe it. If you were there, you understand.

Of course, we feasted after blót on a variety of tasty dishes. Some of the fare included Ed's sweet potato casserole, slow-cooked beef with horseradish sauce from Ted and Beth, Suzanne's corn casserole, Jada's "dirt" pudding, and many other wonderful sides and desserts. All was delicious.

Following feast, gifts were exchanged and our annual group photos were taken. The mood continued to be joyous until it was time for everyone to gather together all their gifts and head back to their own homes after an incredibly AWESOME Yule.

Click here to view some photos from the weekend