hljod_huskona @ 10:21 pm: Haukafell's Annual Ostara Blot, March 21st, 2009


What a Winter we have had this year! Luckily Spring is moving in rapidly as our gardens show signs of little life, the comforting scent of thawing soil softly permeating the air, and the twitterpating of the song birds!

...What better way to celebrate, than to join in with local Heathens!
Earlier in the day we we'll have some crafts for those of us who have children. Egg dyeing, of course - complete with egg hunting! Light snacks will also be provided - if for no other reason than to prevent a ravenous HUNT for food after our Blot!! =P

As usual, around 4pm, we will have folks come together for the pre-Blot discussion.
The Blot itself will take place thereafter. Afterward we will feast and socialize. For those who stick around, we will also have a Sumbel.

Generally speaking, our Ostara feast tends to revolve around eggs and spring greens - but certainly not exclusively! If you would like to bring a dish, simply send an email so we know what to expect. If you are unsure of what to bring, get in touch with us and we'll fill you in with what others have decided to bring.

To recap the basic agenda for the day:


If you are interested in attending, email any questions and/or RSVP to: Haukafell@HaukafellKindred.org
Any Blot details will be sent upon your RSVP. And, as usual, just look for the Raven banner flying high!! We are really looking forward to seeing you all here!!!

Wæs hal!
Rebecca & Haukafell Kindred



Tags: blot, haukafell, ostara

colmunson @ 10:36 am: Charming of the Plow blot Thank You
Hails All,

Just wanted to send out a big THANK YOU to everyone who made it to our crazy-go-nutz blot on Saturday, not to mention Master Tor's birthday shin-dig. He certainly was awed by the presentation of his cake! We have spent today slowly opening the gifts so that he can play with them at his own pace. Thank you all for your generosity and thoughtfulness.

It was certainly a wild and woolly day with the gaggle of kids we had in the house, in the yard, on the roof, under the trees, in the pond...OK I am getting carried away. point is, I think the under-ten crowd had a good time and I am grateful to all the grown-ups for being so patient and lending a hand in monitoring the play and directing the clean-up.

Our pre-blot discussion revolved around Gefjun and the significance of the Gylfaginning story. We also discussed the realities of agrarian life at this time of year; the shortage of stores, the work of preparing and repairing your tools for spring planting and so forth. "Spring cleaning" is not done in spring, but in preparation for it.

The blot itself was cheery, personal and quite informal (ahem). Obviously the highlight wasn't the blot's content, but rather what preceded it - the Ancient Ordeal of Fire Making. Having Becky's flint and steel to play with was a blast. Though the only true blasts were from Greg; first the blast of sparks, then the blasts of his expertly applied breath to fan the flames. Other folk helped too, of course, with several taking a stab at using the steel. Char cloth is a must.  WE MADE FIRE!!!

Silly as it was, we certainly all gained a new appreciation of how essential fire making was to our ancestors, and how fragile one can feel waiting in the dark, damp cold as your kinfolk work manfully (and womanfully) to bring you sustaining warmth. My other favorite part of the blot was the mega-flocks of geese who crossed over head while we hailed the landvaettir. It was also nice to have Miss E volunteer to do the sprinkling of blessings, though we sort of lost focus as a result.

Big thanks to everyone for contributing to the feast! It was all delicious. Lewen's apple cake was my personal fave. Next time...more cheezy poofs since the kids sorta wiped us out (and we'll make sure there is diet soda next time). If anyone wants them, I will share the chili and quiche recipes.

Sumbel was thought-provoking. There seemed to be a theme in the later rounds of learning, teaching and seeking new wisdom (both for one's own benefit and for the benefit of kin and community). This was tempered by convictions of respect and appreciation; for our own as well as others' cultures and spiritual paths. It seems many of us are determined to make this a year of intellectual growth. What a cool thing!

So again, thank you all for coming and making it a great day. As always, our hails and well wishes to those who wanted to come, but couldn't. Never fear, we'll catch up soon enough.



Tags: charming of the plow

colmunson @ 03:22 pm: Charming of the Plow blot, Saturday, February 21

Hails All!

You are cordially invited to attend Haukafell's Charming of the Plow blot, Saturday, February 21. Here's the scoop:

* 2:00 pm - Birthday for Tor Munson
 - As we did last year, we will be combining this blot day with an informal party for our son who is turning two this year. If you would like to arrive early to enjoy the party, feel free. However, please note that NO gifts are required. Since Tor is just two, this party is as much for the parents among us as it is for Master Tor.  If kids parties are not your bag, plan on arriving around 3:30 pm.

* 4:00 pm - Pre-Blot Discussion:

* 5:00 pm - Blot
 - This is Haukafell's traditional Plow Charming blot, so if you have any garden tools, or some other important tool you would like to have blessed for the coming year, feel free to bring it!  Gardening implements are most traditional, of course, but anything you rely on for your livelihood,  health etc. is also fine. Just be sure the item is fairly mead-proof. ;)

* 6:00 pm - Potluck Feast:
 - If you wish to bring a food contribution, please e-mail me at theridion@gmail.com.

* 8:00 pm or thereabouts - Sumbel.


DIRECTIONS:

Google map:
   http://tinyurl.com/676amw

   Directions from the Munson's website: http://www.destinyslobster.com/directions.htm
(Look for the Raven banner flying from the porch)

Please email us at: Haukafell@haukafellkindred.org to RSVP, or for further information.

We hope to see you there!

Frith,

 - Eric Munson



Tags: charming of the plow

colmunson @ 12:36 pm: Ancestor Blot Thank You
Hailsa All,

I just wanted to send out a quick thank you to everyone who graced our home with your company Saturday. The discussion, blot and sumbel all held deep reflections and meaning for me and I hope you all also got something out of it. It was also a heck of a lot of fun to host something. We haven't in such a long time it seems. Thanks also for all the yummy food and sweets folks contributed. I will post the chicken recipe, as requested. In the mean time, here are links to the two poems we read. Both are from 'Odin's Gift.' If you haven't explored that cool site yet, go for it...

http://www.odins-gift.com/poth/A-F/ancestor.htm

http://www.odins-gift.com/poth/L-Q/listentothewind.htm

Frith,

 - eric

Tags: ancestor blot

hljod_huskona @ 08:53 pm: Alfar/Disir Blot, Saturday November 15th

Hailsa All!

You are cordially invited to attend a blot, feast and sumbel in honor
of our ancestors on November 15 at the Munson stead in Pennsburg, PA.
(directions below)

Earliest Arrival Time: 3 PM

Discussion: 4 PM

Blot: 5 PM

Potluck Feast: 6 PMish (so far menu includes chili and a roast)

Sumbel: 8 PM

Socialize: Till we get tired and beyond! Crash space is available.

There will be an altar dedicated to the ancestors. You are invited to
bring memorabilia to place on it. Everyone will be encouraged to
discuss the mementos, their ancestors, fond memories and stories.
Naturally, your mementos will be safe and sound for you to take home.
In addition to honoring the ancestors, we will also honor a few of
those Elder Kin who deal with the departed; Odhin, Hella and Frau
Holle.

** Directions:

Google map:
http://tinyurl.com/676amw

Directions from the Munson's website: http://www.destinyslobster.com/directions.htm
(FYI - Mokurai and AnneLiese are SCA names, the First Union bank
is now an unoccupied building, and our house is in the middle of being
painted so parts of it are green and grey in addition to the yellow
bits!)

Please email us at: Haukafell@haukafellkindred.org to RSVP, or for further information.

We hope to see you there!

hljod_huskona @ 01:35 pm: Haukafell Rune Study
Hi all!

Summer is now over, the winds have changed and the leaves are beginning to fall. Our families are unwinding from the ever-busy Summer season and are gearing up for some home Rune study and family focus. We would like to extend an invitation to you, as well.
 
For our first class, we will try and get everyone on the same page (for those who need some more information). Then we will begin discussing Fehu together. In the time between classes, each one of us will independently study and meditate to Fehu. And we will bring back anything that we learned as a result of our studies and inspiration. Then we will study the next Rune from there, and continue to move that way.

Our classes will meet every other Thursday evening at 7pm. We gave location lots of thought, and for now we have decided to switch back and forth between the Munson's and the Radcliff's steads. Many Asatruar are close to either one or the other, so we are trying to make the classes more easily accessible.
The next meeting (starting with Fehu), will be at the Radcliff's home on October 9th @ 7pm.
If you would like to join us, please reply with your email, or email us at Haukafell@HaukafellKindred.org so that we can get you on our Rune group and we can begin. Are you ready? Let's begin!

In frith,
Rebecca Radcliff & Jennifer Munson
Haukafell Kindred
Website: www.HaukafellKindred.org
eMail: haukafell@haukafellkindred.org


Tags: asatru, haukafell, kindred, rune, rune study, runic

hljod_huskona @ 10:57 am: Lavender/Lemon Shortbread Recipe from Landvaettir Blot

Hi there!

I've gotten a few requests for the Lavender/Lemon Glazed Shortbread I made the other day. That said, I shall not make you wait any longer! =)

Glazed Lemon and Lavender Shortbread



Tags: baking, lavender, lemon, recipe, shortbread

hljod_huskona @ 10:08 am: Re-cap of Landvaettir Blot - Sat. 7/12/08

Greetings, Friends!

Just a quick review of Haukafell's Landvaettir Blot today.
Firstly, thank you to everyone who came, we had such a wonderful time! In attendance were the Radcliff and Munson clans, including the little ones, the Fink family, Nate (a member from RPW) and his Mom, Rob (with a guest), and the Walsh's.

Most of us were gathered by 12pm. We began to prepare lunch: brats, watermelon, grapes, raspberries (provided by those very woods), rose/mint lemonades, and lemon shortbread w/ lemon and lavender glaze. Much discussion was made at this point: gardening, the Gods of various cultures, and more.

After eating, we started our crafting. The men helped the children create bark boats, using bark and feathers (for the sails). Some folks also created individual interpretations of the Spirits of Place that called to them. These were all to be offerings during the Blot.

At , what I think was around 2pm (we *really* lost track of time, lol), we progressed to the grounds deeper in the woods for a Blot. We began by having the children Hallow the grounds, for a change. It was lots of fun for the kids...perhaps even too much! LOL. They were so excited to play together that there was very little focus on the Blot. But, at that age, this is all they worry about - having fun. Keeping in mind most of the children in attendance averaged about 5 years old, or younger (there were seven of them). Back on track here....
After the Hallowing, I attempted to briefly discuss those who dwell among the earth, waters, and winds. Ideally, I would have liked to cover more bases, mentioning Huldfolk, the Alf's, Nacken, Tomte, Nix, and so on. Briefly touching base and inspiring, however the children were very, very excited to release their bark boats, and so we had to move on. I invoked the Spirits of Place (and attempted some kennings while at it!). Eric took charge on the toast. We made offerings as a team: gifts, given back. Milk, for strength and growth. Herbs, for health and well being. Honey, for riches and abundance. And, Tobacco, for community and frith. Others made offerings, from the first of the garden, to cider and milk, and so on. Many good words were spoken to the Landvaettir and other Spirits of Place. We used Cider to respect the parks rules, and the kids were very excited about that! =)
We then proceeded down the hill, to the waters, where our second round of offerings were made. The children were most excited to see their ships and gifts sailing off in Their honor. Jen read a poem as the bark boats sailed off, and then Jesse closed the celebration.

We journeyed back to our picnic site, where we re-grouped and settled the kids with food and play. We rounded up and had Sumbel. Again, many wonderful words were spoken. Frigga was very popular among the first round, unexpectedly. =) Freyr and Thor were also hailed. Many Heroes and Ancestors had lovely words spoken in their honor. And then some great boasts were made: one who just got a FABULOUS job, another who is forming a Kindred of his own, and so on. Haukafell also presented Greg with a birth day gift in this round, since his birth day was yesterday (Friday). As a beekeeper, we felt he'd appreciate the gift.

We continued with more wonderful socializing while we cleaned up. A good conversation about the Runes came forth then, also.
We then decided our children were ready to go home, and we ended the day on a wonderfully calm note.

Our next Haukafell function will not be until September, so we will be seeing most of you at ECT (East Coast Thing), from August 21-24. Hopefully we'll see you there!! =)

As a closing thought, we would like to thank all of those once more for joining us today. And also for bearing with us so much this year as we establish ourselves as a Kindred, and finding a group rhythm. We're having so much fun, and really enjoy the company that has joined us each and every time. You are all wonderful, and we are honored that you have come to join us! We are looking forward to so much of the future, where we have the chance to help build the community with the other local folks and Kindreds in our area, such as Vingolf...and watching and learning as we all grow together.

Hail the Community!
Hail the Folk!
Hail the Gods!

Tags: asatru, blot, haukafell, kindred, land spirits, landvaettir, sumbel

hljod_huskona @ 10:03 am: Landvaettir Blot: Saturday, July 12th

Góðan daginn!

High Summer is officially here, humidity and all! Life and abundance are flourishing about us. The whispers roar among Land and Sea as field-energies spiral among us. What a beautiful time of the year this is! Many of us are hard at work, nurturing and maintaining our gardens, bee hives, homes, Spirit, and even our tummies! With this in mind, we are also looking to those with Hidden-Voices, the Field-Soul of rocks and grasses - the Landvaettir, or Land Spirits, and those Spirits who dwell among Swans-Mountains and Ships-Pathways.
We, the Folk of Haukafell Kindred, invite you to join us to celebrate among both Spirits of Land (and Water), on July 12th for a Landvaettir Blot!

( Blot Details Under Cut... )

Tags: blot, green lane park, haukafell, kindred, land spirits, landvaettir, sumbel, water spirits

colmunson @ 08:51 am: Renninger's Extravaganza This Saturday!

This coming Saturday is the Renninger's Antiques Extravaganza in Kutztown. Haukafell will be going (probably with a pre-set budget!) to hunt for all the goodies Heathens love such as Heathenish/folkish art, cool things for ritual implements or altar decor, home items like non-electric kitchen gadgets and vintage tools and so on and so forth. With over 300 antique dealers at the event, you name it - it's probably there somewhere!

After we get tired of gawking, we will retire to Kutztown's city park on Main St. to enjoy some shade, swings and food. That evening is also the Virginville Pennsylvania Dutch Film Festival which some of us may be attending.

Let us know if you'd care to join us. We will be aiming for an arrival time of 9:00am at the Extravaganza gate. Hunting parties will likely communicate via cell phone. :)

Frith,

 - eric

Tags: june 28, renninger's extravaganza

colmunson @ 10:59 am: April Park Moot Pix
Hailsa!

Our good friend Maggie has uploaded some pictures she took at the Park Moot in April. You can see them here

Thanks Maggie! The pics remind me of how much fun we had (and how much I need to practice kubb).

Tags: park moot

colmunson @ 03:42 pm: Wrap-up: May Day Freyja Blot - Sat. 5/3
Just a quick post to say a big thank you to everyone who made it Saturday to our blot in honor of Freyja. About a dozen adults and assorted halflings were in attendance including all four Haukafell members (finally!), Chris L., Curt, Pat, and Maggie. Janina, Rob, Mike and Melissa were missed, but hey, life gets in the way sometimes.

While the herd of kids enjoyed themselves upstairs, the grown-ups hung out in the kitchen and talked about brewing, among other things. Turns out Curt is a brewer too, so I offered samples of some of my stuff and we all shared the joys and pains of fermentation. :)

Later, we sat down to enjoy a hearty discussion about the Vanadis led by Jen. She had just finished Patty Lafayllve's book, 'Freyja, Lady, Vanadis'  and this gave us a solid footing for discussing the many varied aspects of the goddess in lore and in life.

The blot itself was warm and intimate. Offerings of flowers, mead, rum, fruits, cookies and more were consumed by the flames. Offerings to the Landvaettir were given to the earth. Over the horn, folk spoke of love, fertility, spring, passion, beauty and inner strength.

The feast was yummy (of course!) Thanks to everyone who provided victuals! 

After dinner, we gathered in the living room for sumbel by candle light. One feature of this and the blot as well was the appearance of the Kindred's new official minne horn (yay!). It has yet to be carved, but Jesse and Becky brought the newly-purchased blank horn with them to show us all. It has a nice polish already and is quite clean, so we couldn't resist quickly trimming the unfinished lip, washing it out well and using it.  It is a trick horn - not easy to tell where to aim the tip so that you don't get blessed. We joked that we should carve "drink from this side" in runes on it. One person who shall remain nameless did get blessed (ga-dunk!). Despite that, it served well and holds well over a wine bottle's worth of mead.

Toasts during symbel included Freyja, Njord, Odin, wild grandparents, nameless ancestors of courage, women who have persevered through suffering, those seeking second chances in the face of the unknown, and the spirit of exploration. As usual, I was impressed and moved by the depth of feeling and insight exhibited by our friends. Oh, we also had one gift presented. Chris gave his daughter an advance birthday present - a silver Valkyrie pendant! We all hailed her and basked in their shared joy and pride.

Conversation continued to flow freely into the evening. Maggie and I love-bombed Curt regarding the joys of SCA heavy weapons combat. ;)  We capped off the evening by sharing a birthday cake Beck made for Jesse (who is now an ancient 29 winters old). Maggie and I attempted the Viking Birthday Song, but we realized we seriously need to look up the lyrics and either memorize them or print them out for next time. *hangs head in shame*

So thank you again for coming and sharing the day with us. Our next gathering will be in Reading, June 7th.

Some of us will also be attending the Philly Asatru Meet-up in Reading on May 30. See you soon!

Tags: blot recap, may day

colmunson @ 09:38 am: Peregrine Falcon Cam
There are some Peregrine Falcons living on the PP&L building in downtown Allentown.
WFMZ (local news station) installed a "Falcon Cam" to watch them. Check it out!

http://wfmz.com/webcams/falcon.asp

Now I ask you...could you ask for a better treat around May Day?
Hail the Falcons!
Hail Freyja!

Thanks friggasgirl

Tags: falcons

colmunson @ 10:39 am: May Day Freyja Blot - Sat. 5/3, Pennsburg, PA

Where in the sunlit world do I find her? In the pregnant orchard, globed with peaches, Lit with green leaves? In the Ocean shores? They are loud with her footsteps. Her amber tears wash up on the beaches And folk go raking them. In the beat of fire? Oh no, where heat is, there is Freya. Coaxing heady, full-lipped Calling in beauty. In the lilt of music? But dancing calls me to her, the sway And lovely fetching is all in her nature. In the depths of magic? She is its very mistress, holding hard To the meaning she creates By the strength of her will. In prophecy? The very act of asking Carries her name, and her hope Is all that allows me to ask.

Tags: freyja blot

colmunson @ 11:33 am: Park Moot Redux, April 19
Thanks to everyone who joined us at Green Lane Park Saturday!

As Jesse said, everyone who couldn't make it was missed, but we know you were there in spirit. Haukafell had the pleasure of hosting Rob, Jon and Brandy and their kids, Chris L and his kids, our SCA chum Maggie, Brian and Sharon and new local Heathen couples Mike and Melissa (plus kids), Curt and Jo. So 15 adults in all plus 12 kids (I think). There was a ton of conversation and I dare say some new friendships were kindled.

The kids had a blast. I credit myself with thinking of investing in the foam swords from the dollar store (go me). However, we did have some issues with non-Heathen kids joining in the play. Not a problem in itself, but one kid was playing rough and it was awkward to have to discipline him when his mom wasn't doing anything about it. I will have to re-think providing these sorts of toys at public venues. It's one thing when you know all the kids, and they can all be taught to play by the same rules. But anyway, the kids being occupied was a win-win. While they dueled and stole pirate gold and climbed rocks or playground equipment, the grown-ups got to talk and play kubb. At one point, Jesse Mike and I took our munchkins on a "hike" to see a "waterfall" - the spill dam for the reservoir. That was cool.

I got burned pretty badly. (oh right..April..no leafy canopy in the picnic area...D'oh!) Serves me right for not remembering to put on any sun screen, I guess. But luckily I tend to burn then tan, so maybe I'll be better off next time.

The kubb game was great. Jon, Becky, Jen and a kid who's name I forget did a good job of beating Brian, Rob, Curt and myself. We _almost_ made a brilliant comeback. Almost. I am looking forward to seeing the pics that Maggie took. Becky is a natural! We have decided that Jon will be the model for the next cover of Kubb Illustrated. I swear, the dude looked like a professional bowler or something...the form...the grace...the focus...the footwork...the...damn! Missed it by that much!  We'll have to make kubb available again soon.  Haukafell needs to practice so we can maybe play at ECT.

The food was yummy. Melissa out-did us all by bringing her chicken and pepper skewers. Otherwise, it was just good ol' dogs and burgers and such. However, we discovered in conversation that more of the attendees are into healthy eating than we had suspected, so Jen wants to get more creative next time. Sharon had asked us if it would be OK for her to surprise Brian with a b-day cake (40th), and of course we said yes. So the dessert for the day was a delicious chocolate cake.

Oh and on the fashion front...both Jesse and I wore our kilts. And brown t-shirts. This greatly amused the hauka-ladies who decided we matched so closely that this must be the "official Haukafell men's uniform".

So again, I'm grateful to everyone who showed up. We all enjoyed the day and I am looking forward to organizing another park moot. Thanks!

Tags: park moot

colmunson @ 04:21 pm: Park Moot, April 19, Green Lane PA, 11am - dusk
Hailsa!

We hope everyone will be able to attend our Kindred's Park Moot on April 19 in Green Lane Park, Green Lane, PA. (also known as Upper Perkiomen Valley Co. Park)

It will be a day of relaxation, fresh air, food and socializing for adults and halflings alike. While the kidlets lay siege to the park's playground equipment and many climbable rocks, grown-ups can lounge about and enjoy picnic fare or a game of Kubb.

* Start: 11:00 am -- Food should start coming off the grill around noon.

* End: Dusk, or whenever we get tired and go home.

* Food: Picnic stuff! We will be using a park grill to do dogs and burgers. Want to bring a contribution? Cool! Just let us know what.

* RSVP or Questions: Haukafell@haukafellkindred.org

* Directions:

Google Map

MapQuest

Generally for area locals: Take your best route to Rt. 29 (from the Lehigh Valley and north, you will probably use PA 309 or the NE ext. of the turnpike to Rt. 663 (Quakertown). Then take 663 south to Pennsburg. Then turn left onto Rt. 29S)

** Note: Use the Hill Rd. park entrance off of Rt.29 - this is closest to the picnic area and playground. This is the northern entrance (as opposed to Snyder Rd. further south on Rt. 29) Heading south from Pennsburg/Green Lane, this entrance is on your right on a sharp bend in the road as it goes down hill. Go slowly and watch for it. If you come to the junction of Rt. 29 and Rt. 63 (Liberty gas station), you have gone too far. Locals may know this park as the site of the Green Lane Scottish Irish Festival in September.

Below is a link to a google satellite map zoomed in on the lot where we'll be parking. How cool is that?


View Larger Map

Tags: park moot

hljod_huskona @ 09:00 am: Haukafell's 2008 Ostara Blot Report

Today, March 29th, Haukafell Kindred held our Ostara blot at the Radcliff's stead.

Among those who attended was Eric [our Kin-folk, colmunson] (unfortunately anne_liese_w] couldn't make it because she is under the weather...get better Jen!!!), the Fink family [greenmanrn, friggasgirl and their two wonderful girls], the Paganotti family [Erich, JoAnna, and their two beautiful girls], Jill [jinglebellz61], Tim, and their daughter Melissa, Pat, Deborah and her son Travis, Rob, Sara [slate1198], The Walsh family [Melissa, Mike, and their two boys], and Jess & Keith [a nice couple Jesse and I met at a RPW meeting this past week].
What a full house we had! It was absolutely wonderful!! Thank you all so much for coming!
In addition, I would like to thank Tim, Greg, and Eric for their mead contributions. Tim and Jill for the beautiful gift of Tulips, and Pat for the beautiful gift of Mums. I fully intend to plant both of them in our garden this week (which would also hopefully be symbolic of a growing friendship to all of you!). =)

Folks started arriving at 2pm for the egg dying. Mostly those with kids. Though I'm sure some of you wanted to dye them yourselves!! =P
The kids and parents dyed the Easter eggs together...about 4 dozen I would guess. Afterwards, the men took them out and hid them for the hunt. The kids had an absolute BLAST! When finished, they came in and started feasting on their newfound treasures. Lots of luck to go around for them! The remaining eggs I set aside for the Blot.

Our pre-Blot discussion was pushed off almost an hour later, which ended out working a little better after all (4pm really came in FAST!!). So at 5pm we sat down to talk about why we had all come together. We discussed how each of us celebrate Ostara, what it means for us, and the renewal of spirit, and of body at this time of year,as well as the Blot itself, and who we chose to include in the Blot [Idunna, Freyr, and Thor]. About 20 minutes later, we began the Blot. This is the first time that I (Rebecca) had really grabbed the reigns of a Blot [from planning it out to it's execution]. It was loads of fun...but my goodness was I nervous!!

With as many children as we had there, I decided that instead of making an old man Winter from last years left over wheat, we would have a "human" old man Winter (which Eric so kindly volunteered himself for!). HOWEVER...we did not tell the bulk of our guests, LOL.
During the short focus we typically have in the beginning of our Blot's, I rallied the children and armed them with some Forsythia branches. I asked them if they wanted Winter to stay...or if they were ready for Spring. Of course they were ready for Spring!! Then I told them to keep an eye out for old man winter...because he might try and bring back winter again. And that if they were to see old man winter, that they were to chase him out of the yard with their branches! And...at the cue of "and winter has now passed with Spring's arrival..." Eric came dashing out of the house in a dark blue cloak and long white beard running and leaping and growling...and all the kids came barreling out towards old man winter and chased him out of the yard, whacking him with the branches, and away he went indeed...ensuring Spring's return!
Oh it was so much fun...I think everyone really enjoyed that. =)
Once the surprise drama settled down, Jesse proceeded to do the Hallowing. Next we invoked Idunna, Thor, and Freyr. Then I filled the horn, blessed the mead (which Tim brought from Greg's brewing, a strawberry melomel - delicious!). We passed the horn offering our words, prayers, and blessings. We poured that into the Blot Bolli. Then Eric came over and used one of our stalks of wheat to bless each guest, the eggs, and the chocolate hare sacrifice with the mead as I read the following poem (which I wrote specially for this Blot):



Tags: asatru, blot, freyr, haukafell, haukafell kindred, idunna, kindred, ostara, ostara blot, paganism, sumbel, symbel, thor

hljod_huskona @ 10:31 am: Haukafell's Ostara Blot on March 29th


Greetings!

Hope you area all doing well. It seems Spring is moving in fast as the birds begin to sing, and the air feels fresh! And with Spring begins the celebrations of. With that in mind...
You are all cordially invited to join Haukafell on March 29th for our Ostara blot!

Earlier in the day we we'll have some crafts for those of us who have children. Egg dyeing, of course. And an egg hunt. *IF* we have time (and more than likely we won't but *IF* we do), we'll have something else lined up for the children to take on.

We'll be providing snacks earlier for these guests so that we are not beasts after the Blot. =P

Afterwards, we will have folks come together for the pre-Blot discussion.
Then, we Blot!
For the Blot: If you wish to, bring something you would like to personally offer (an item, a written poem, something you made, you know the drill!). We will be honoring Idunn, Freyr, and Thor.

Following the Blot, we will feast!
Currently we're planning on Quiche and some sort of other Main dish (to be established). Anyone coming is more than welcome to make something to go with the dinner. If you are unsure of what to bring, get in touch with us and we'll fill you in with what others have decided to bring.

So here is the basic agenda for the day:


If you are interested in attending, get in touch with Rebecca (RadcliffsHearth@msn.com) for the directions. We are easy to find (just look for the Raven flag flying high!!).
Our home is very kid friendly.
We are really looking forward to seeing you all here!!!

Wæs hal!
The Folk of Haukafell Kindred

Tags: blot, haukafell, ostara

colmunson @ 12:28 pm: Charming of the Plow 2008 After Action Report
Heilsa!

Just wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who came to the Munson stead Saturday for our son's birthday and the first-ever public Haukafell Blot! What we had originally thought would be a small, informal gathering, quickly became quite a to-do. It was a great time, to say the least.

The day for us started with final stages of cake baking and making of caper gravy for the German meatballs (which were awesome, I think). Then a trip to the beer distributor and grocery.

Guests started arriving at 3:00 for the 1st year birthday celebration of my son T. T really enjoyed his cake, but made the classic mistake of trying to grab the candle and burning his fingers. Jen tried to stop him, but was a millisecond too late. Thus, my boy has experienced his first lesson of Life IS Pain! (queue Conan the Barbarian theme). The poor little guy recovered quickly though.

We settled in to stuffing ourselves and Jen opened T’s gifts. Thanks so much. You guys are awesome. The feasting included Jen’s German meatballs in caper sauce, homemade carrot cake and chocolate cake (mainly for the kids) and about a zillion different dishes brought by our guests. The biggest hit of the day was Curt’s spicy chicken dip (see below). We certainly ate well all afternoon and evening! We also consumed somewhere around 25 beers and ciders. Yes, I counted the empties – always good to plan for next time.

Around 6:00, those who had come for just the b-day took their leave. And the remaining Heathens chatted some more while Jesse, Jen and I set up for blot in the library using the piano as our altar space. Flowers gifted by Tim and Jill were flanked by candles. The gardening tools brought for blessing were arrayed on the piano bench.

This was Jen’s blot. She has officiated rituals for our family’s Mother Night celebrations before, but this was her first solo community blot. I think she did a great job, if I do say so myself.

We started with a Hammer Rite, which I put a small spin on by passing the hammer around the circle while talking about the significance of Mjolnir and Thor’s hard work to keep us safe. Next, Jen invoked Gerd, Gefjon and the Disir. She talked about how one of the things that drew her to Asatru was the strength of the women of our path and our ancestry. This was followed by a reading from the Sigrdrifumal. Jen shanghaied Pat and Chris into reading the parts of Sigrdrifa and Sigurd. They did a great job! I was particularly impressed with Chris’s speaking voice.

After they were done, Jen commented on how we do not know how many more stanzas to this lay remain lost to us. We don’t know if this was the sum total of the advice the Valkyrie gave to the hero, or if there was more. But the point is, she was the keeper of wisdom and wise Sigurd specifically asked for her counsel. This is an aspect of our culture we have not forgotten.

The horn was filled and passed around the circle – one round for the Goddesses, one for the Disir. Folk hailed Frigg, Sunya, Hel, Gefjon and others. It seemed that most of us chose to honor grandmothers when it came time to speak of our Disir. Some of the stories and anecdotes were very touching and impressive. One woman had raised nine children. “Rosy the Riveter” was there. One German woman was versed in the Runes and taught them to her granddaughter; years before the term “Asatru” had ever been coined. Great ladies all.

The mead, blessed by the Elder Kin and made mightier still by the words of our guests was libated to the blot bowl. Using a wheat stalk, Jen called on Gefjon and then anointed each of the garden tools folk had brought to the blot. Jesse read a poem which Becky had written for the occasion (I’ll post the text later if she agrees).

After the tools were so blessed, Jen invited everyone to come with her outside to our horgr where the mead was poured out. And there was much rejoicing. :)

The evening went on with much eating, talking and the passing of Chris’s large minnehorn filled to brimming with Greg’s apple cyser (19% alcohol!).

One important food note:ootwoods, the creator of the "spicy chicken liquid enchilada crack" has been kind enough to share his recipe! Here it is:

***************************
Curt's Spicy Chicken Dip

3/4 cup Hot sauce
3/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce
8 oz. cream cheese.
(mix those 3 together)
Add:
1 envelope Ranch dressing
1 can (4 1/2 oz) green chopped chiles
8 oz Well-shredded Cheddar Cheese
Add 12 - 15 oz can chopped chicken breast
Mix. Bake at 375 degrees until bubbling. Cool. Eat.

Now, I leave out the Hot sauce, as I find people typically don't like
it _that_ hot, and I run the chicken and the chilis through a
whammer/chopper/thinger before stirring them in, so they are finely
chopped.
******************************************************

This may have to become a Haukafell Feast staple. Thanks, Curt!

So...I have been feeling very up all through yesterday and today, even though I am also dog tired. I think we had some great energy going Saturday. Basically great big helpings of Frith and a great little blot. I feel that we accomplished our "mission" since, as far as I can tell, everyone had a good time. The only down side of the day was that our kinswoman Becky was ill and unable to join us. That made us very sad, but we were grateful to have her poem there to share.

I am amazed by how things just seem to naturally fall into place sometimes. Wyrd brings us to the people and things we need at the time we need them. The trick is to keep your eyes open and be ready to “seize opportunity by the forelock” as the old Samurai saying goes.

Thank you for joining us and for making the blot a warm and meaningful experience. Hope to see everyone again soon, either collectively or individually - hopefully both!

Stay tuned -- next Haukafell Blot is Ostara on March 29. IMHO, this will be even more of a debut for us since the blot will be the only focus of the day and we'll be enjoying a discussion session and perhaps other activities. Egg dyeing anyone?

Frith,

- eric

Tags: blot report

hljod_huskona @ 02:00 pm: Haukafell's Calendar of Events for 2008
You've asked and asked for it...and now it's finally prepared!
Here is our calendar for 2008! =)
As the dates get closer to each event, we will send out a reminder for them so that you can RSVP if you would like to.


March
Saturday, 29th: Ostara Blot
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.

April
Saturday, 19th: Haukafell Park Moot
Picnic, social event. Location to be determined.
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.

May
Saturday, 3rd: Walpurgisnacht Blot
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.

Saturday, 17th: PA May Faire in Reading, PA
(Rebecca is assisting to plan events workshops and entertainment)
If you're interested in more information regarding the PA May Faire and it's Schedule of Events, visit:
http://www.readingpagansandwitches.com/pamayfaire.htm

Also:

Saturday, 17th: Historical and Ritual Garb Class and Sewing Day at Eplagarðr in West Virginia.
If you are interested in more information regarding this event, visit:
here: http://www.eplagarthrkindred.org/avhg.html

June
Saturday, 7th: Birthday party for Radcliff children & early Midsummer Blot afterwards.
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.

Saturday, 28th: Viking Raid at Renninger's Antiques Extravaganza & PicnicMoot Afterwards
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.
Also, see Renninger's website for info on their extravaganza's:  http://www.renningers.com/kutzexthome.htm

July
Saturday, 12th: Landvaettir Blot
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.

August
Friday, 22nd - Sunday, 24th: Haukafell will be attending the East Coast Thing in the Poconos.
For those who have not heard of ECT, the link can be found here:
http://www.eastcoastthing.org/

September
Saturday, 20th: Winterfinding Blot
We are not sure if this will be a private or public function yet, as this is our annual camping trip. We'll let you know when it gets
closer to the date. =)

October
Thursday, 16th - Sunday, 19th: Eplagarðr's Winter Night's Gathering in West Virginia
Haukafell will be attending this event together.
If you are interested in more information regarding this event, visit here: http://www.eplagarthrkindred.org/avhg.html

November
Saturday, 15th: Blot to Ullr and the Providers
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.

December
Saturday, 20th: Mother Night Blot
Email: haukafell@destinyslobster.com for information and to RSVP.

Tags: asatru, calendar, haukafell, kindred