Mabon: Autumn Equinox

Tomorrow marks the Autumn Equinox, the first day of Fall, known to pagans as Mabon (May-boon).  Now the days and nights are equal once again. The weather is cooling, the harvest is winding down, and we prepare for the long cold months soon to come. This is the time we reap the fruits of our labor. Some Mabon customs would be giving offerings to the land, bringing in the harvest during the full moon (Harvest Moon), gathering seed pods and dried plants, making corn dollies, and fermenting grapes for making wine, among other things.


Mark and I got into the spirit and drove into Springfield for the Cider Days Festival on Historic Walnut st. (the festival continues tomorrow if you didn't make it today). We missed this annual event last fall, only hearing about it after it had occurred, so I was happy we would be going today. Phil and Carrie even came out and joined us.

A great turn out at Cider Days 2013

Beautiful handmade crafts

Corn husk horses

After paying our four dollar per head admission we walked the busy street looking at the arts and crafts  while I pointed at every dog we passed as if I were seeing them for the first time. It was really fun to see all the different pups people brought along with them.

One of the many beautiful homes on Historic Walnut st.

Pumpkins, gourds, and a big ole watermelon!

I wanted a giant pumpkin but dreaded carrying it to the car!

We shared a cup of cider and watched some children perform a dance on one of the three stages. I imagine this was an exciting day for such young-uns performing in front of a huge crowd.

We watched a woman at the ApotheFaery booth spin wool into scarves and other whimsical creations. She later told us that she uses wool from three different breeds of sheep.

The ApotheFaery and her spindle

After passing the booth selling fudge for a second time, I decided we needed to take some home. I mean just look at those slabs! We paid four dollars for half a slab and let me tell you...It. Was. Worth it. Mmmm.

Oh, Fudge! Mackinac Fudge

At one stage we heard a jam band playing Grateful Dead style music and following them an Irish band. Before we headed home we stopped to listen to a man playing a small harp. He was my favorite. Carrie says she has seen him play at Gailey's breakfast joint downtown.

Now back at Chigger Chalet, I can see the big bright moon shining above the river. The windows are open, mulling spices on the stove, and a small fire burning in the fireplace under a mantle dripping in the colors of Fall. In this moment I feel gratitude, love, and joy. 

One of the best things about living in the Ozarks is the chance to experience the entire Wheel of The Year and the changing of the seasons. Wouldn't you agree?

~ Love & Light ~