International Herb Symposium/Midsummer & Summer Solstice

The Beautiful Summer Sun is high in the sky...it is the longest day of the year. This year has been fairly mild with lots of rain so far and I have enjoying every moment when not at school or doing school work.

Summer Solstice is the day the Oak King is slain by the Holly King and the days gradually ebb away to become shorter and shorter. Bonfires burned throughout the country side to protect against evil spirits as the sun turned southwards. Fairies also ran free at this time, an old tradition is if one sleeps under an elderberry tree on Midsummer's Eve, they would be taken to the fairy realms. Due to spending my time up in Mass., USA this Midsummer's Eve and dancing the night away, I missed my opportunity this year, so next year I will hopefully be able to get under one.

It was a bunch of firsts this summer solstice. I road my first plane, went to my first IHS, had my first full body massage (WOOT!) and met many of my herbal heros for the first time.


Take off!



Pictures of My Herbal Heros!










Firespinning




IHS Ball 2009





IHS Goodness





Overall it was the most amazing experience in my life to date and I cannot wait until it happens in 2 more years. :)

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