While we usually host grove rituals for the Solar holidays (solstices and equinoxes) on the day of the actual event, we were unable to this autumn equinox. And then trying to accommodate people and schedules it seemed like no one would be able to make it anyway. Thinking about personal needs and the Grove’s need for better scheduling, it, as always, works out perfectly.
From many to none to just a few. We spent the early part of the day at a small memorial service for a dear friend who passed exactly a year ago. Before our last autumn equinox was the last time I had seen her alive in this world and an interesting circle of closure that we meditated with her picture and spirit before this ritual.
Too hot weather, finally summer heat- unwanted if you are encased in a foam sling- we pass time until the end of the school day and pick up the boy and his friend. Going home we try to explain about the holiday and offer the option for either or both to join us or not. We always feel it is important for our son to honor the Kindred, but he had participated fully in our family ritual and we are not here to force relationship.
Making baked ziti one-armed as Katrina and ZJ arrive. Everything is new, even the bearable weather and we chat and catch up- trading flood and school stories. Gathering ourselves we discuss balance and adjustment- to new environments, friends, work, boundaries and abilities. How things and people change apparently or literally overnight and how to maintain self and space.
Boys ensconced in their game the rest of us each take a basket or pitcher and process to the 5-circle fire pit. We are here to honor the Gods, Gods who give meaning to life. Geese fly in the distance.
All the stalks and branches and wood are wet from the soaking rains we had for days; Bryan lights sage and kindles the fire.
Our directions seemed so clear and distinct- the stream loud and in the east, the birds and milkweed in the south, the setting sun defining the west, the changing leaves and winds of the north portending winter.
The smell of the grapes, the red of the flowers, the black of punk/goth style. Offering sacrifice to each of the gates, quiet prayers for healing bodies and hearts.
Our omens:
from the ancestors: Isa or ice, standing still, frozen solid, slippery or clear
from the spirits of nature & place: Uruz- the Ox, strength & growth, force
from the Gods & Goddesses: Fehu- fee, what things cost, wealth, liquid assets
for the season: Daguz or day, the vantage point of high noon, almost the whole cycle
Ogham- Idad or Yew 
DEATH/REBIRTH
our fire burns warm like comfort and blesses our waters.
drinking the endless water, friends helping friends, offering thanks.
We picked everything up and headed to the house, boys just done with their game, fabulous feast comes together like magic.
we laugh and eat and share school stories.
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