I didn’t make my goal of sitting meditation every day this week. Distraction, thy name is Druid. Still, I am working towards the state of emptiness and focus that will help me enter trance states more easily, without being distracted by too many thoughts (I’m not trying NOT to think, only not to be attached to my thoughts, or allow them to break my focus.) I’ve been focusing on my breath most of the time, but I’ve also done some tree meditations that I like.
I picked up a copy of The Book of Nine Moons this week, since its been recommended on various lists. I was delighted to find that it’s designed to go with the Initiates Path, since that’s where I am considering focusing after I finish the DP. I was really encouraged by the first few chapters, as its exactly the kind of thing I’ve been looking for. I don’t think I’ll start early on it, since I do want to finish my DP first, but I am definitely going to tailor my meditation practice towards the eventual IP work. I figure the more I plan ahead, the easier it’ll be and the more I will get out of it.
My devotions this week consisted of sharing incense (and wine) with Freyr and starting to introduce myself to Freya. I am also, as mentioned, working on building an ancestor practice focused on my Disir. I’m encouraged by my early work, which consisted of doing some kitchen work with them in mind, and charging my hearth candle to them specifically. I got a ton of resources to work with from Heather over at Loki’s Bruid that I am working my way through. I really think this will be a big part of my practice, and I’m excited to begin real devotional work. I’m planning one meditation specifically focused on connecting with them this week.
I need to get back to my practice of tea with the kindreds, though I do a miniature version with my morning devotions every day. I sip tea and say a few prayers, and then try (since I’m at work) to get a good solid chunk of clear breathing and listening.
I am definitely working out a Norse path that will work within the ADF framework for now though. I haven’t felt called to Asatru or Vanatru at all, even while I’m directly trying to work with the Norse Gods and traditions. Hopefully I can make it work as well as other ADF members seem to have done!
Little Druid on the Prairie 
I’m not called to Asatru or Vanatru either. 🙂 I’m glad your devotions seem to be going so well! I’ve slacked off since Spring Equinox.
I personally don’t like the Book of Nine Moons, but perhaps that is just me. Maybe I need to just try it and see what happens. I’ve heard MJD say that he’s working on an IP version of WOTY, also, so we’ll see how that goes.
Blessings,
Victoria
@Victoria
I haven’t yet done any of the exercises in the Book of Nine Moons, but it strikes me as a strongly meditative and trance oriented discipline – something you’ve said you struggle with, so maybe it’s not the right book for you. I do look forward to MJD’s study for the IP though. Hopefully he’ll have a prototype ready by the time I intend to start next fall!
I’ve been having similar issues with distractions this past week with meditations, maybe there’s something cosmic at work?
@Eira – Maybe, though I think for me it’s more that “life” got a little more hectic than usual. The moon is currently waxing, and I’ll admit to having no greater knowledge of the astrological goings-on in the universe!