​They were deeply inspired by everything they experienced in Chaska, with all of the classes attended, the connections made and rich conversations that were enjoyed. Willow found she was especially inspired by the work of our friends in the Minnesota Threshold Network, who contributed greatly to the atmosphere and learning opportunities offered at the conference, including the 3 day mock vigil. They left the conference impassioned, with a laser focus. 

Kate and Willow knew they wanted to build a community around this profound work, starting with the people they already knew and expanding where called. There was an escalation of kismet as things began to unfold naturally, with ease and grace. Their community care group was lovingly birthed as they began offering support to their own community. 

They held a Death Salon event in November 2019, attended by over a dozen participants, in which several thoughtful activities were shared to help connect those present to one another, to invite them to consider the role that death plays in their own lives and to drop deeply into their own individual connections with the earth. Information on local resources were shared, along with an invitation to join the group, to volunteer or to offer donations of specific equipment that a home funeral group might use, such as massage tables and other home funeral supplies. There was an opportunity to give constructive feedback about the whole experience and to sign up for the newsletter. This event was followed by an advance directive meet and complete style presentation, helping several people complete their own documents.

Still fresh in its infancy, Threshold Services of Central Virginia, is working to develop their educational programming, actively seeking out new volunteers and outlining their plan of action on what they’d like to bring to their local community.  Willow shared she believes this work is “so very urgent, environmentally, spiritually and metaphysically.” A proponent of encouraging earth friendly burial practices,  Willow asks us to consider how “our bodies can either be a blessing to the earth, or a curse,” and to choose consciously. 

Threshold Services of Central Virginia will continue holding educational meetings, and offering other relevant, helpful community education, including an upcoming Death Box Playshop, as a complement to the 10 session Community Care Group program outlined in the book, Undertaken With Love by Holly Stevens. Their activities will also include family directed home funeral workshops and of course, support for local home funeral families in their time of need. You can find event listings and contact their group online at https://www.facebook.com/thresholdva . 

A dear friend had accidentally run over his five year old son. It was deeply tragic and rattled our community to its core. I was extremely close to the child and his death affected me for years following. Because of my relationship with him and with the blessing of his mother, I insisted on being part of caring for his little body. The women involved, including Nancy, were reluctant at first but sensing my strong need, allowed my participation. It was the hardest thing I had ever experienced, even today the tears flow when thinking about dressing his little broken body and tucking his favorite doll into the homemade casket. 

In looking back at that December morning so long ago, something not only sacred was taking place but something significant in my destiny, a turning point in my young life.  I was given the skills that have helped guide many people in need, including my own family. Nancy was always more of a mother than a mentor and it wasn’t until years later, after doing this work for a long time, that it felt right to finally call her my “mentor.” I don’t know why exactly. The tables have long since turned and Nancy has called me for advice on several occasions. We share stories, laugh about the absurd, and savor a unique bond. I will always be grateful to her for instilling in me the courage to go forward, humor to be flexible and the importance of beauty surrounding the dead.  ​