The Strength Card - Reversed…

Confession - this card was pulled at the very start of the day as I was running late for the ferry - which lead to literally running in the freezing cold. So, right away it felt pretty eerily accurate. When the outer struggle meets the inner struggle and you just keep pulling, it’s time to throw your hands up and let whatever part of it you can fall away. So, I didn’t drop this bomb of a card until our day was over, because why rub it in. And tonight, I threw my hands up, forgot about everything and settled in to watch “In The Heights”. Hope you can throw your hands up and do something equally as fulfilling to end the long struggle of a day. Tomorrow is a new blank page!

“Good Morning. Unclench your fists. Lower your shoulders. Step away. Then come back with a clear head, redouble your efforts. I believe in you.”- Lin Manuel Miranda

The Strength Card (Reversed) from the Rider/Waite/Smith Deck

The Four Of Swords…

Feeling exhausted and it’s only the start of your week? Help is there for you in ways you cannot see, but you might feel. Is there someone who is no longer with you that you just wish upon wish you could connect with in this moment of depletion ? Rest your mind and find balance in the hidden blanket of their energy. Ask them for what it is that you need. When you get that idea out of the blue, they might have whispered it to you. And, that sudden burst of inspiration could be a gift, not a whim. The universe works in mysterious ways and your ancestors are always there when you need them most, pointing you in the right direction. Snuggle into a mid-day nap and see if you can feel their calming embrace or hear their secret guidance.

“Sometimes people leave you halfway through the wood, do not let it grieve you - no one leaves for good. You are not alone.” - Stephen Sondheim from Into the Woods

The Four of Swords - Artists Rendering by Gentry/Smith Tarot

The Wheel of Fortune…

Round and round the wheel spins and you just never know where it will stop! Sometimes life forces change - but this week it’s time for YOU to force a little change. Your heart is calling for it and you know you are ready to take a chance. Risky, maybe - but thrilling, definitely. What element in your life is calling for, almost demanding transformation? That is your target. Don’t resist, open your heart and trust that you know exactly what to do. Don’t throw the dice - wear them proudly as you fearlessly step out on a precipice and actively invite the winds of change. It’s time. Make it happen for yourself. You got this.

“Change begins at the end of your comfort zone.” - Roy T. Bennett

The Wheel from The Light-Seer’s Deck by Chris-Anne

The Six of Pentacles - Reversed…

Oooooh…this card hits hard for me right now! I am a person that is led by a giving energy, so perhaps that is why it has taken me ALL day to sit down and write about this. Feeling generous?!? Are you a giver, a provider or someone that has a charitable nature?! How exhausted are you right now from all the saying “yes” you have done and all of the ways you have stretched yourself to contribute?!? If I am honest with myself, I feel it it too…. Giving has a limit. Ugh! I can’t believe I said that, but it does. You may need to set boundaries or redefine the way you operate in this particular moment. If you are feeling tired, used, abused or taken advantage of, it’s time to set some guidelines to exactly what, of yourself, you are willing to extend to others. It’s healthy, it’s thoughtful and frankly, whether it’s time, money or personal energy, you can’t afford to give much more. So…step up, speak up and draw a line in the sand. It will be hard, but in reality it’s a very small step to gain perspective on how you interact with others in a healthier way. Give in this idea of not being SO giving.

“The boundary to what we can accept is the boundary to our freedom.” - Tara Brach

The 6 of Pentacles (Reversed) from This Might Hurt Tarot by Isabella Rotman

Nine of Pentacles…

I know the holiday season is officially over, but that doesn’t mean you can continue to bask in the glow of that energy. Luxury, indulgence, warmth and joy should be on your agenda this weekend. Feeling like you need a little comfort and cheer? Snuggle in with a good book and a delicious cup of hot chocolate. Want to feel gifted? Hit the after-holiday sales and treat yourself to something fun. Hit the spa to really make yourself feel amazing and if you cannot, create a home spa complete with warm bubble bath and lavish face mask. Light some candles around your home to illuminate the space with a glamorous glow. You deserve some self-pampering this weekend. Do whatever your heart desires most and relish every second.

“Do not be afraid to give yourself everything you’ve ever wanted in life.” - Frank Lloyd Wright

The Nine of Crystals from the Inner Child Cards by Isha Lerner

The Nine of Wands…

You have been busy building something big and have made great strides forward in this direction. Feeling a little protective now? It’s ok to defend your territory and make sure everyone knows who is king when it comes to this particular project or situation. But, be careful not to close yourself off from the people or things you need to take your dream all the way to the finish line. Stay in the fight, but consider your adversaries wisely. Trust your instincts on who you can and cannot trust for these final steps, but don’t shut everyone out of the picture. You are wild and powerful in this moment, but you haven’t yet reached the pinnacle of what you can expect. Don’t distance yourself - Ready yourself!

“If you rile a tiger, he’s going to show his claws.” - Rob James-Collier

The Nine of Wands - Unsure of this deck, but love the image - do you know what is is?

The Ten of Cups…

When life feels like a strange carnival, let gratitude float in. Gratitude for the little things - a colorful sunset, a sparkling moon, the feel of the green grass beneath your feet, the distant sound of music - can bring greater awareness to the fullness of life that you have at your fingertips. Tonight as you lay down your head, make a mental list of all of today’s celebrations - the warm comfy coat you put on before stepping out into the cold, the 5 dollar bill you found floating around in your bag, the supportive people that showed up throughout your day, the twinkling holiday lights that haven’t been taken down yet. List, in your mind, the tiny delights that lifted your spirit today. Allow these thoughts to carry you into the night sky as you gently drift to sleep. In your dreams, dance under the colorful big top of all your riches tonight. Sweet dreams!

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” - Melody Beattie

The 10 of Cups from the 78 Carnival Tarot - Card by Molly Harrison

The Seven of Swords…

Do swirling thoughts about others have your head full of clouds? We all have moments when we feel that cold, bitter wind of envy sweep in and make us feel small. If you are going to let your imagination run wild about what they have that you don’t, get specific about it. Tonight, focus on the person that is making your head spin the most. If you could steal just one piece of their life - what would you steal and why? Write it down. Once you have identified it - dig deeper. What would having that thing give you that you don’t have? Write it down. And why is that really important to you? Write it down. Keep asking why until you get to the core of the matter. Write it all down. Before bed, curl up that piece of paper and slide it under your pillow. Then, imagine you are slinking away into the night having stolen that missing element that you crave. Carry it into your dreams and see how it manifests for you there. When you wake up in the morning, look at the paper underneath your pillow and decide what ONE thing you can do in your day that will move you closer to the core of what you want. You will likely realize it has nothing to do with them at all. Sweet dreams, you envious ones…

“Envy can be a positive motivator. Let it inspire you to work harder for what you want.” - Robert Bringle

The 7 of Swords from the Cosmic Tarot by Norbert Losche

The Wheel of Fortune…

We are spinning into our first full week of 2022 and there is so much that is up in the air. It’s best not to force a landing. This ride is going to be wild and wonderful, so adjust your expectations to be ready for surprises. Think of yourself as a compass on a tilt-a-whirl. Don’t bother to adjust your seatbelt, just be flexible and get ready to pivot to find your equilibrium. No matter how chaotic it becomes, the universe is supplying you will all that you need to master it. The more pliable you make yourself, the easier it will be to accept all of the things thrown your way. Heck, throw your hands up - you don’t need to hold on to that bar for support. Feel the winds of change whipping through your hair and know that you will always find your way to where you are meant to be. Let’s get this ride started…

“God put us here on this carnival ride. We close are eyes never knowing where it’ll take us next.” - Carrie Underwood

The Wheel of Fortune - Illustration by Nikko Cabatas

New Years Day Card…

Happy 2022! This year, tune into the phases of your life as if you were the Moon. Your energy levels ebb and flow - sometimes your light beams open and bright and sometimes you feel like you just want to hide in the shadows. It can become natural to fight against your given intensity levels to fulfill obligations and responsibilities. Life is a dizzying spin, after all, and we are all just trying to keep up with our planet as it circles. But, this year, embrace your own moon power and deeply connect with the rhythm of your own psyche. Harness your energy, by allowing the magic of your own changing energy to illuminate the ways it would like to. Let the moon, who follows you through your many faces, connect you to the deeper emotions and memories that embolden who you are. When you are most in darkness, use those moments to connect with strength to the power of your inner light. Dance under the moon whenever you need a reminder of your own circadian rhythm. Happy New Year!

“Don’t tell me the moon is shining now; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” - Anton Chekhov

The Moon - Artist’s Rendering from Fine Art America

New Year’s Eve Card…

You have been doing a whole bunch of internal soul searching and the New Year is the right time to bring what you have discovered to the forefront of how you exist. There is a new light emanating from your heart. This beam of love and understanding has elevated you to a higher level in our incredibly tricky game of life. You now know that intention is everything and you choose a path that illuminates a way for all. Don’t be bashful. Own your incandescent and unique energy and let it shine out into the world with no regrets. Cast a glow on the year ahead for yourself and all you encounter and do it with humility and authenticity. Shine on in 2022, my friends. Share your magic. Happy New Year!

“Let your light shine so brightly that others can see their way in the dark.” - Katrina Mayer

The Hermit shines a light on 2022 from various decks.

The Four of Swords…

Free fall into 2022 with the idea that if you would like a balanced mind, you will have to make space for periods of rest, solitude and quiet. The overwhelm of day to day living in the time of Covid can feel like a battle, as we all well know. If you want to be prepared to face the moments of fight that are inevitable, you need to clear your mind and give your spirit opportunities to regenerate. If your mind calls to you for some peace and quiet, find it. If your heart needs to climb back into bed, do it. If you need time with healing friends, take it. Escapism will be key, but be incredibly mindful of how you escape and make sure it will truly create the space you need to restore. Also, do not underestimate the universe and the loving energy of spirit guides and past ancestors - they are watching over you at every turn, but there may be times when you really need to connect with them. Make it a priority by making room in your mind, heart and spirit for self. You can find moments of rest and retreat in the craziest of times - I promise!

“Winter reminds me that even nature needs time to rest and retreat into its roots.” - Lisa Rowell

The Four of Swords from The 78 Tarot Tarot In Space Deck - Art by Jade Hilliard

The Six of Wands - Reversed…

As a message for the year ahead, the Reversed 6 of Wands is not exactly what I hoped for us, but let’s try to put this in perspective, shall we? In 2022, we may not get the recognition we long for or deserve for all of the hard work we put in, BUT that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate our own accomplishments. In fact, knowing in advance that a certain level of disappointment when it comes to acknowledgement and accolades is expected, will help us to prepare the spirit by looking internally for the rewards that will truly matter. No matter how much external appreciation is lacking, that doesn’t mean we didn’t bust our bones to get the work done and execute it with flying colors. If we are being completely honest with ourselves, true fulfillment comes from within anyway. So, let’s make a pact to applaud every little step of our own progress and full on throw a party when we exceed our own expectations - and we will, my magical friends, we WILL.

“Your self worth depends on you. You don’t have to depend on somebody to tell you who you are.” - Beyonce Knowles

The 6 of Wands (Reversed) from the Alainn Tarot Deck

The Three of Coins…

For me, the cards I pull between Christmas and New Years are little clues on how to move forward in the New Year ahead. It’s time for us to start planning on making use of our most unique talents this year! What interest or skill do you especially love? What is it that you know or do that thrills you? Though, you may or may not see this as something you can capitalize on - start thinking of ways you can bring this personal fascination to the forefront. The activities or hobbies that captiviate you, might hold potential for return, if you pursue them with zeal. You’d be surprised how something you are passionate about that seems quite small could grow into a full blown money maker! If not money, the enhancement of these fancies can increase your personal intrigue in a way that brings rewards and accolades. Because you have great enthusiasm for this particular evocation, it won’t be hard to motivate yourself in this direction, so find out just how far you can take it. If you already have something of this nature cooking - dial up the heat and see if you can supercharge the growth. You will be surprised just how much this tiny interest can reward you this year!

“Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.” - Rumi

The 3 of Coins from the Spiral Tarot by Kay Steventon

The Eight of Cups…

As we head into a new year, it’s a good idea to take a hard look at all the areas of your life in which you find yourself emotionally complacent. If indolence and empty acceptance are your default regarding people, situations and practices that you engage in, perhaps it’s time to shake things up. When you think about it, life is fleeting, so why continue to engage in something or someone that doesn’t help you advance in a joyful or exciting way? Sit down today and think long and hard about those elements you simply adhere to and see the many ways in which you might shake them up in the new year. Get your feet wet by changing the way you approach your own indifference. If you splash around in all of that listlessness, a clear message on how you should change may rise to the surface of that mud-puddle you have created for yourself. Ditch apathy and resignation. This new year embrace action, defiance, exploration and inspiration!

“Complacency is a far more dangerous attitude than outrage.” - Cherrie L. Moraga

The 8 of Cups - Artist’s Rendering by Petra Kock-Reiter of Petrak Art

The Empress…

The Empress welcomes you into her warm embrace today. If you are feeling lethargic or down, allow yourself to be initiated into the abundance of the world around you. Give yourself a few moments today to notice the color and light that dance around you wherever you are. Take advantage of the elements of the natural world that are available to you and reflect upon the mysteries of our world. When you open yourself to experiencing the wonder that is always available but seldom appreciated, the universe becomes a lush secret that is revealed in small, secret whisperings just for you. The reality of your life is so much more than you think it to be. So, become the explorer that is ready to adventure toward experiencing the multidimensional life you deserve. Walk hand in hand with Empress - she is your guide and she gifts you nothing but love.

“Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.” - Soren Kierkagaard

The Empress from The Shadowscapes Tarot by Barbara Moore and Stephanie Pui-Mun Law

The Wheel of Fortune…

Spreading a little holiday cheer with a friendly reminder… Life has its ups and downs and sometimes you find yourself on top of the world and other times spinning in dizzy confusion. But, though those sudden moments of craziness can feel overwhelming - when you rip open the wrapping, they might surprise you by being the most magical gift of all. It’s funny how the things we most need come to us in unexpected ways. Wherever you find yourself on the wheel of life on this Christmas Day, I hope you can recognize that everyday is a gift. Keep tearing into that paper and opening those boxes, friends. You never know what joy and delight is hiding if you dig deep inside! Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays and stay forever gifted.

“Life is a gift. Never forget to enjoy and bask in every moment you are in.” - Unknown

The Wheel of Fortune from the Linestrider Tarot by Siolo Thomspon

The Queen of Cups…

Joy to the world and YOU are the joy! Your radiant presence will inspire and delight loved ones near and far, so glam it up, my friends. But, the glam is just an outer trimming of what is bubbling underneath the surface - your inner spark of love and thoughtfulness is the main event at any gathering or even just over the phone. Your light is undeniable and you care so much. You care about how others experience this season and you are determined to find all the magic of each moment that is available. What an inspiring, colorful energy you bring to all you encounter, while also putting anxious minds and hearts at ease. It’s your calling this year - embrace the power of your own good intentions, feel and share the wonder of your zest for living fully and let it all follow you into the New Year, you Queen!

“A good intention clothes itself with power.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

The Queen of Cups - Artist’s rendering by Emily Balivet (work available on Etsy)

The Four of Wands…

So many wands this week and a repeat visit of our friend, The Four Of Wands. Wands are fire and fire is symbolic of the infinite celebration that resonates at this time of year - the candles on a menorah, the yule log, the light of a lantern on a dark winter’s night. These are flames that burn despite the odds and bring hope, joy and peace to those who need it most. The glow of a flame can light the way through the dark and the warmth of blaze can sustain us in the cold. On the eve of Christmas Eve, celebrate all of the things that bring you light and warmth in your life. How do your own fiery passions help you to find the balance you need to truly thrive in the world? Share your inner warmth and light with loved ones over the next few days of gathering. And if you cannot be with friends or family, because of circumstances out of your control, light a candle and feel the eternal flame of their love surround you. There is an undeniable foundation of support and light for all of us to dance within.

“When you possess light within, you see it externally.” - Anais Nin

The Four of Wands from the Fenestra Tarot by Chatriya

The Ten of Wands…

It’s only the middle of the week and it feels like we have been climbing this mountain for a long, long time. But, the sun will soon set on the burdens we carry and we will be able to start fresh. Perhaps this is hard to recognize right now, with all the “covid meets holiday season chaos” that is swirling about us, but we are moving so close to the finish line. Just keep going, friends. Despite how tired you feel and how much steeper the climb, you must move forward through the rough terrain. You carry with you so much that you have to protect, but once we are through this, we will all be able to set down those heavy responsibilities and feel free once again. Follow that setting sun. A new one will rise and it will bring better times.

“Courage takes faith in the knowledge that things will get better even if you don’t know when or how.” - Katrina Mayer

The 10 of Wands from The Crystal Visions Tarot by Jennifer Galasso