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Thruðheim Kindred Yule Blót 2008
December 20-21, 2008
Kindred, family and friends |
The weather outside was a bit warmer than what is seasonal, with light rain on-and-off, however, inside there was a great deal of warmth provided by Herb and Suzanne's homestead, and warm-hearted folk gathered together to honor the Gods and celebrate Yule.
Most of the visitors arrived a little after 4:00 p.m. Saturday and, of course, quickly found the snack table, around which most of the activity was centered. We never want for good friends and food at a Thruðheim event, and this Yule was no exception. There was plenty of light-hearted conversation and laughter as one went from room to room to visit all the different folk in attendance.
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. As it was Mother Night, many raised their horns to Mother Frigga in round one, and to family members, mothers in particular, in the second round. This rite always strengthens our bonds as a kindred family and this Yule sumbel was no exception.
As our group was rather large (a welcome things, indeed), sumbel lasted quite a long time and it was rather late in the evening before open sumbel concluded. Following sumbel, there was a bit more merriment and visiting until, eventually, the visitors made their separate ways home to rest up.
Sunday arrived, clear and bitterly cold outside, as a front had moved through in the wee hours of the morning. Guests started arriving shortly after 11:00 a.m. bearing gifts and tasty fare for Yule 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. It was a fine blót, with plenty of good energy and a message about the importance of family.
Of course, we feasted after blót, as always. Some of the fare included two types of delicious ham, corn casserole, Finnish beat salad, fruit salads, yeast rolls and all kinds of desserts.
Following feast, gifts were exchanged and our annual group photos were taken. The mood continued to be festive until it was time for everyone to gather together all their gifts and head back to their own homes after another memorable Yule.
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