On a Saturday afternoon, the blót kindred set out toward Västerås to hold Winter Nights at Anundshög, Sweden.
It was a very sunny and rather windy holiday, but it was such a joy to meet the kindred again after a time apart. Together we found a beautiful spot between the mounds and stones, then built up the blót table and decorated it.
During that time there are always passersby who curiously ask who we are and what we’re doing.
Ásatrú? The one about Odin and Thor? What do we sacrifice? Is it blood and animals being offered?
We’re always happy to talk about what we do and invite them to attend, either within or outside the circle.
Regardless, people walk away a little richer in knowledge and perspective than before.
This year’s Winter Nights gathered eleven people in the circle. The blót was led by our excellent blót officiant, Pontus, who always manages to make the ceremonies feel genuine, personal, and inclusive for all of us participants.
We speak about closing and beginning the year together, reflect on thoughts and events, and harvest the experiences the year has given us.
After the blót, Tommy and Carina offered wonderful homemade treats and warm drinks.
A fine start to a new season, with many more blóts ahead of us.
I hope we’ll meet again!
Ár ok friðr,
Elise, Blót Kindred Leader of Ymer
