And whatever translation of the precept you follow, whether it is completely refraining, or consumption without drunkenness, my best wishes to you, your friends, and family.
Had a nice time at the beach today with the little man. We were building sandcastles close to the water so we could watch the water come in and quickly wash them away. Seemed like a good time to discus impermanence.
“Can you think of anything that lasts forever and doesn’t change?”
“Sand, no. Water, no. Plastic, no. There isn’t anything that lasts forever without changing.”
“true”
And so we waited for the water to come in and wash away the sandcastle.
Of course, if impermanence does not happen quick enough, an 8 year old boy can act like Godzilla and help it along.
This evening Ian let me know he wanted to sit with me. Admittedly, I am always excited when he decides he wants to try so we went right in after he brushed his teeth.
First, he decided to almost quit because he wanted to sit in his room, not where I usually sit. So, we moved the cushions to his room.
Next, he decided he would rather stick his tongue out at me while we sat. No big deal, just keep my eyes out of focus and let that pass as one does with the thoughts racing through your mind during meditation. (and of course, don’t crack up – because the little goofball is funny)
Next, he decided to get up and lay in bed; that he was finished sitting with Daddy. No big deal, we’ll try again when he’s ready to try again.
All of this gave me things to work with during my sit. I am always so excited when he wants to sit; don’t let my ego make him sit with me – he will when he is ready. Don’t attach to disappointment when he decides tonight isn’t the night to sit, just let it be.
I continued sitting, working with all of this, working in the present moment. Really, isn’t that the point?
The little goofball ended up fast asleep by the time I’d finished so I went to tuck him in. He must’ve been very tired as you could hear his breath. A sound I would rather listen to over any chanting I’ve ever heard… hearing your child laughing, or sleeping soundly is the most wondrous sutra there is.
This weekend, we were able to attend the Viking Festival down in Vista, CA. It is put on by the Sons of Norway and Norwegian Fish Club Odin, and appears to be an annual event. Dawn had found out about it in the AAA magazine and I’d been looking forward to it ever since.
One of the first things we saw was a demonstration battle:
They had information about a ‘Viking Log Toss’ competition that I really wanted to enter, but it turns out that was held on Saturday. Oh well, maybe next year; I’ll be able to practice before then.
A ton of vendors were there selling anything from handmade chainmail, helmets, swords, and leather to shirts, flags, jewelry, and cooking supplies. I couldn’t pass up a shirt that had Mjölnir on the front with ‘If you can read this you are a Viking’ spelled out in runes. (yes, it is awesome)
A lot of the back area was set up with camps displaying tents and living quarters
(I told Dawn we should try to see if we can stay overnight in one of these next year; though I’m not sure she’s convinced.)
and, quite a few people were in costume
(as a side note, I spoke with him and they have a group that does ‘Viking flash mobs’ in Los Angeles. Their Facebook page is here: ‘Norse Hollywood Dining Vikings‘ – how great is that! I may have to start working on a costume so I can join them.)
Although it was the longest line in the place, we waited and the lefse was well worth it, as you can tell by Ian’s look of approval here
The little man also got to paint his own sword and shield
which he tried out in battle against two worthy foes
as you can see, he fought valiantly and made his ancestors proud!
I think the one thing we all enjoyed the most was ax throwing! Dawn made great attempts
I landed 4 of my 5 throws (beginner’s luck I think)
and we gave Ian a turn and he landed it! (proud Daddy here!)
One of the excellent things is that I was able to get a bit of information that will hopefully help me in researching my ancestry back to Sweden. This is something I’ve wanted to do for quite some time. Also, found there is a local lodge of the Vasa Order of America.
All in all, it was a great time and we can’t wait to go back next year
We had a lot of fun flying the little man’s kite the other day and wanted to experiment with a camera. So, when I got home from work today we made a quick case for our Flip camera out of an old washcloth and some duct tape then headed back up to the field. The following video is what footage we captured. It’s very shaky, but still a lot of fun.
As you can see, the camera was a bit too heavy for the small kite we have, but it was still a worthwhile first attempt. Plus, now we have another fun project to work towards; building a bigger kite so we can film from a higher point in the sky.
The main shrine, beautifully decorated.
Making a wish for the New Year.
Year of the Dragon
Heavenly Blessings and Protection – Venerable Master Hsing Yun (me standing next to a blessing from Master)
Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva on Dragon
Venerable Hsin Ting and Ian. We were very fortunate to see Venerable while he is visiting from Fo Guang Shan.
