Planet Earth is a living, breathing entity. We have all at some point in our schooling come across the subject of geography, which describes Earth’s terrain in terms of Her structure- mountains, continents, rivers, rocks and so forth. This is her skeleton.

Because edible plants were important to our ancestors, and will again become important to us, I seek to learn about the edible plants of my own odal lands here in North Carolina. Getting to know particular plants, watching them grow, learning their uses at different times of the year, and allowing Mother Jorth to bear them in Her time while being conscious of that life process, can lead to sensitivity and patience lost for many caught up in the age of convenience and consumerism that surrounds us. Learning about these plants also gives one an opportunity to gain knowledge that will be important for our existence again as the dark age further unfolds. Let the ignorant dismiss us as “survivalist nuts;” we will continue to prepare.

During this summer’s Odinic Rite Folk Camp, I gave a talk and demonstrated a ritual dance, which was composed from Morris dancing steps of the Cotswold tradition. You can watch a video of this dance at the end of the article. The reason I decided to perform this dance at the Folk Camp was because I wanted to show those who had not considered it before, that ritual dance has great potential for Odinism in the Modern World.

On the 22nd of August Members of Freys beacon OR hearth met up in the capacity of Guardians to clear litter in Storeton wood area of the Wirral peninsular, here in the Northwest of England.

Kris AOR brings us the third report on his allotment venture, and discusses some of the problems he has had with potato blight, a rather stubborn weed called ‘Horse Tail’, and of course the age-old foe of the gardener – the slug. He also talks of the successes of his broad beans, and describes efforts to increase and support biodiversity on his plot.

Hail the Growers!

The Edelweiss is one of the symbols of Switzerland, and also of other alpine countries such as Austria. It is a rare flower that grows at high altitudes. The Edelweiss has therefore given rise to many legends. This is one of my favourites

This first report by Jim charts his initial progress and thoughts about his newly acquired allotment, and shows that extensive gardening experience is not a prerequisite for such a venture – all you need is enthusiasm, respect for the soil and faith in Nature.

In this article I want to take a look at what sort of crops can be sown towards the back end of a year and into the early months. It’s also a good idea to take a look at what can go straight into the ground from the bag and what benefits from a head start by being propagated in a green house. Note that I am only looking at crops that can be started in a green house and then transplanted outside. I will address crops that can be grown in a green house all year round later on (if I have any actual experience of doing this).

In this article I have sought to concisely explain the history, etymology, meaning and modern use of the Fylfot/Swastika, including in ritual, utilising both external sources and my own interpretation and experiences as guides. I hope you will find this article both useful and interesting in learning more about this most holy of symbols. Hail the Fylfot!