Whatever you call the midway point between the Summer Solstice and the Fall Equinox, it’s a time worthy of celebration. The First Harvest represents the bounty of the land and our lives. I take this time to reflect upon my personal bounty and crops, review my projects and relationships and crafting a corn dolly. Then it’s time to honor the local harvest with a simple feast. The grand finale is a contemplative ritual involving the elements.

August Eve or the first day of the month marks the midway point between summer and fall.  This is the time of the first harvest, known as Lammas among other names. It is time to harvest what we have planted. The tomatoes are ripe, the corn is high. The growing season is in full bloom and it is time to enjoy the benefits of our hard work.  This time, halfway between the summer solstice and the fall equinox is a great time to take stock of what you are now reaping.

The Significance of the Corn Dolly

My approach is to have a period of contemplation while making a corn dolly. I often jot down a list of the bounty in my life. This is an added boost to my regular gratitude practice that is so vital for attracting plenty. Then it is time review what I am working on – those crops I am tending. Finally, a deep dive into what crops aren’t growing well. Do these projects and relationships need more tending, a different approach or is it time to let them die? Sometimes toxic relationships need to be left to wither. After this it’s time for a meal of locally sourced veggies with my boys, followed by a simple ritual.

Continue Reading