Charming of the Plow Festival
The residents of Owl Island perform traditional agricultural rituals as a part of their celebrations on February 14th. This it the time when grain crates are offered for the soil’s fertility, and Father Sky and Mother Earth are invoked to that end.
The SS Vulcania is approaching White Owl Island, in time for this agrarian festival, a festival that is of import for those who are keen to ensure that the seeds they have sown are nurtured by the earth.
When you embark at Owl Island meditate upon your dependence on the soil, and, along with others crumble upon the soil a piece of bread (natural or homemade of course). As you crumble the bread call upon the Land Spirits to heal the Earth and to keep it safe from harm. This ceremony will be of particular import to Victorians who have just witnessed the most savage razing of the earth as a result of destructive wild fires.
A potluck dinner will follow the ritual. Passengers of the SS Vulcania and guests are encouraged to bring a dish to share and are welcome to bring offerings for the spirits who watch over Owl Island.
After the potluck dinner there will be a Gala Costume Ball in honour of White Owl.
Responses to the Festival should be posted on White Owl Island.
Passengers who choose to stay on board for long periods often decide to leave their cabins and come on up to P Deck for the Pythian Games. 
Some passengers of the Vulcania have responded to the call of the piper and they are travelling overland, on Donkeys. Each night at twelve midnight donkeys wait in the stable behind the Swan and Rose Inn, ready to take newcomers on the increasingly, well todden road most travelled.
Mother earth forgive us
be healed be restored
may you wear flowers in your hair again
drink long and be refreshed
be renewed
kvwordsmith
February 13, 2009 at 9:17 pm
Lovely heartfelt words, Kezza – may hearts be healed and life return.
Gail
February 13, 2009 at 10:36 pm
Let the festivities begin.
woodnymph
February 14, 2009 at 4:29 pm