Eight of Wands…

As we move closer to the start of the New Year, let’s use the cards to illuminate what might be ahead. I asked the deck today, what our biggest obstacle in 2023 will be and pulled this Eight of Wands, which felt like a thrilling riddle to me. Fiery energy moving us in the direction of focused goals seems like a good thing, doesn’t it? However, as we shift to accommodate what we believe to be our distinct target, we may find we are reaching in the wrong direction. Going after the gold could be the obstacle here! Crazy, right? But, we may be honing in so strongly on one thing and missing out on our more fulfilling purpose. This year, when you find you are obsessively driven toward that one singular objective, take a step back and ask yourself what you might be missing or, quite frankly, avoiding by doing so. Treat your drive like the obstacle and you may discover the lost puzzle piece of who you are. Didn’t you always want to solve the riddle of your own existence? 2023 could be the year you do. This obstacle will be challenging, but full of action and fire!

“Why should I hasten to solve every riddle which life offers me? I am well assured that the questioner, who brings me so many problems, will bring me the answers in due time.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

The Eight of Wands from The Sacred Rose Tarot by Johanna Giargulo-Sherman

The Knight of Pentacles - Reversed…

I had to laugh when I pulled the card this morning. It’s clear my deck believes I didn’t quite get the message yesterday. “But deck,” I thought, “I have SO MUCH to do and only a few more days left to get it all done before I am thrust back into the madness of ‘normal’ life.” It’s funny, these days between Christmas and New Year are always a magical in-between in which we can (sometimes) catch our breath and ready ourselves for what may be coming in the new year. It’s a kind of nebulous thin space that allows you to think on the past year and prepare for any change you would like to invite into your life as you push that re-start button on January 1st! Some of us clearly prepare too hard and too much. Every year in this time frame, I wind up getting sick, so perhaps the lecture of my cards holds deeper meaning. Two days in a row, our Knight has crawled out to tell us to SLOW DOWN. Whether it’s illness or exhaustion, we need to listen to our bodies, calm our minds and spirits and get the rest needed to start our New Year right. Perhaps that is just it - this year, preparation is over-rated, but rest is EVERYTHING. I get it. Let’s all do what will restore our spirits most and, if that is nothing…so be it.

“Sometimes doing nothing is doing something.” - Thomas Dewar

The Knight of Pentacles (Reversed) from the John Bauer Tarot

The Lovers & The Sun Reversed…

See if you can welcome love in the shady parts of your life today. It’s easy to feel that warm, magic feeling when everything is bright and sunny. In the shade, though, some very peculiar things begin creep out. Whether you are experiencing this with a lover or yourself, invite the darkness. Don’t you want to love every bit of that person - your lover and yourself?!? There have always be hidden places to discover within them or you, so why not explore? Bring a flashlight, so you can shine a light on each daring secret. Be openly accepting of any concealed fears. Love all of the strangeness you find in this dark haven. It can be delicious to discover the stranger that lives inside of you and them. Do not fear the dark. Find out what it feels like to love in the shade. You will be surprised at how much closer you feel to self and to that beloved.

“Why were you so surprised that you never saw the stranger?
Did you ever let your lover see the stranger in yourself?” - Billy Joel

The Lovers and The Sun (Reversed) from The Tarot of Mystical Moments by Catrin Welz-Stein

Two of Swords…

I see you, out in the cold, perched at an impasse, wondering if you should make a move. You should. Some decisions are really not fun because either way you feel blinded from what might lie beyond them. It’s challenging to know what way is the right way…but does it matter at this point? You may feel comfy having nested in your home in the in-between, but it was never meant to be your permanent residence. You have wings, after all, so let yourself fly in a new direction. Don’t let your mind ensnare you in the decision making process. Look within and you will see that true freedom will come once you head in ANY direction. In short, make a move - you won’t regret it and if you find you do, you can always change course. Time to fly…

“The more decisions you are forced to make alone, the more aware you are of your freedom to choose.” - Thornton Wilder

The Two of Swords from The Ostara Tarot by Krista Gibbard

The Star…

This is less of a draw and more of a wish for you. The star is a very integral part of the Christmas Story. Not surprising that it is at the forefront of this and many other holiday and religious celebrations, because it is a symbol of love, light, hope, and peace. Tonight, no matter how cold or snowy it is where you are, I encourage you to take a minute or two and step out into the night air and look up at the sky. You see, if you are feeling down, anxious, disappointed or lost, a glance at the sky can be enough to let you know you are not alone. Because of the crazy, inclement weather, many of us may not be able to gather with loved ones the way we planned to do. Take comfort and joy in the idea that somewhere they are looking up at the same night sky and wishing they could be with you. And, while we are all glancing up towards the light of the heavens, it may occur to us that the universe is so much greater than we can even comprehend and our individual light is needed to move the cosmos forward. The stars, after all, reflect back our own sparkle, as we are made of stardust. Collectively, we have faced so many challenges over the last few years, but yet, we continue to shine. I hope you find the love, light, hope and peace that the stars promise this year.

“Each star is a mirror reflecting the truth inside of you.” - Aberjhani

The Star Card - not sure of the deck, but thanking the stars for the Artist that made this rendering, because it inspired me today.

The Hanged Man…

At this time of year it can feel like we are stuck in that winter Netherland of the mysterious in-between. Maybe it feels like the Upsidedown without monsters or a self-imposed Narnia of the spirit. These next few weeks could be a vacation from everyday life, but also might trap you in a prison of waiting for what is to come. There’s a magical, yet foreboding nostalgia that permeates the air as we maneuver through all of the gatherings of the holiday season. People, places, food, gifts all delight the senses, but also remind us of the ever changing experience of life. The approach of the new year comes with mixed emotions and all kinds of thoughts. In fact, some may feel a great sense of anxiety as the year creeps slowly to a close, while others feel the thrill of the unknown energy of what is ahead. There’s a lot to absorb and so much energy being expelled. It is important, though, that you prepare yourself for this topsy-turvy path and understand that you have more control over your experience of it than you recognize. Take a moment tonight to check in with how you are feeling and tie yourself to any hidden wishes you hold within. Suspend yourself above it all and breathe. You’ll soon know when you are ready to surrender to this Netherland and just how you might best face its most twisted mazes. Take time for self now - you won’t regret it later.

“Each person deserves a day in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from cares that will not withdraw from us.” - Maya Angelou

The Hanged Man from The Inspirational Tarot

The Nine of Wands…

Sometimes it’s best to retreat into solitude and wait for that spark to come. In fact, today, you may want to disappear into a safe space to make sure that you are poised and ready to invite that little bit of inspiration. Self-protection, while restrictive can allow for greater clarity and fresh perspective. Give yourself permission to honor your personal needs and set the stage for a healthy moment of isolation. Create space and set boundaries to keep others in check, and ready yourself to foster the light that lands in your lap. Take the time you need and hide with purpose! On this Monday, it’s necessary to be a little cagey…and incredibly imaginative.

“Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious. You get to choose how to use it.” - Anna Taylor

The 9 of Wands from the Stella Tarot by Stella Kaoruko

The Page of Wands…

I’m guessing my deck didn’t like my take on this card yesterday or is pushing me to keep exploring this Page, because it reappears today as our card for the week ahead. It literally leapt out of my shuffle and landed like a challenge right in front of my feet! Yes - my deck can be quite sassy. So, put on your detective gear and let’s get all Nancy Drew-like about the week ahead. It isn’t just surface inspiration that we seek - we’ll have to dig very deep to uncover that which we truly need to thrive. Use this week to not only prepare for the holidays ahead, but to really examine the mysterious secrets that dwell within. What do you desire for your life that has been buried away because you feel like it’s way too exotic or luxurious to actually contemplate? It’s time to contemplate it, my loves. Really dissect these hidden puzzles - put them together and make sense of what you crave. Then, hatch your plan to unravel the riddles by figuring out how to go after the thing you most desire. Decipher so you can master. It’s time to solve the case of your “Personal Inner Question Mark”. Happy hunting…

“Mysteries abound where most we seek for answers.” - Ray Bradbury

The Page of Wands from the Tarot of Mystical Moments by Carin Welz Stein

The Seven of Wands…

You have been working so very hard to defend and protect all that you cherish in your life and you have earned a little respite. This weekend, recognize and celebrate the fact that you finally have the upper hand. You may still feel the pressure of what is at stake, but you can rest a bit in the understanding that you have gained control over the constant threats to your personal wellbeing. Best way to honor this moment? Find a cozy spot where you can enjoy the comforts of the season. Light some candles and welcome the glow of the holidays into your heart. Staying close to home is advised, but even if you can’t be sure to dial up the feelings of warmth and splendor within your space. Anything that torments you from outside of your protective lair is inconsequential. So banish dark thoughts and drink in the peaceful and reassuring pleasures of the culmination of your hard work. You won’t be able to remain this insulated forever, so enjoy it while you can! Savour the season and honor yourself.

“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.” - Jane Austen

The 7 of Wands from the Thelema Tarot by Renata Lechner

The Ace Of Swords…

Sometimes you gotta take a shot in the dark, because out of darkness great ideas are born. Tonight, think of that one idea you have but have not taken action on. You know - the one that calls to you when you try to pack it away - the one that emerges in your dreams, even when you have forgotten it. Every time that idea springs forth, you feel a tiny bit of excitement and a great deal of resistance. Don’t pretend you don’t understand what I am talking about… That is the idea that you must grab a hold of and use to break free of all worry and doubt that prohibits you from taking a chance. Cut through the entanglement of your own mind and take action. Trust the power of your own creativity - see where this little idea can take you! Happy travels!

“Take the risk or lose the chance.” - The Universe

The Ace of Swords from The Running Press Tarot

The King of Wands - The Nine of Pentacles (Reversed)…

You can tell that life is a flurry when every day I have to post a card of the late night (instead of the card of the day). This means, the cards I pulled in the morning travel with me throughout the craziness of the day, which can help them to percolate in my spirit. This message really did shine prominently throughout the whirlwind of distractions that rained down upon me today. In the blizzard of the holiday season, while we are all rushing about and trying to keep up with the dizzying pace that this holiday season brings, the colors of red and gold shine prominently through decorations, ad campaigns and even on the trees we might place in and around our homes. A bit of symbolism emerges in these colors - some say the red represents a kind of sacrifice we all must make and the gold the gifts that are coming. In this case, with these two cards, it’s important to note that true power lies in how we choose to sacrifice self this season and we may find the gifts aren’t as important as we thought. Another idea that emerged for me in the franticness of today is that the red and gold are colors that can be found in the constant fire - within and without - that fire warms us throughout this time. Even if you live in a warm environment, the fire within your heart and soul can keep your spirit alive amidst this frigidly wild season! Think about using the vibrant imagery of the season to inspire you this time of year. Also, ask yourself - where can I find the real gifts and how might I best use my personal power to inspire others? No matter what you celebrate, the vibrancy of these colors can motivate us toward deeper meaning.

“We all enjoy giving and receiving presents. But there is a difference between presents and gifts. The true gifts may be giving part of ourselves - the riches of the heart and the mind.” - James E Faust

The King of Wands into the Nine of Pentacles (Reversed) from The Sacred Rose Tarot by Johanna Gargiulo-Sherman

The Page of Pentacles - Reversed…

Sometimes, we are just not interested in what is being presented. It’s ok to feel lackluster if the people, places or things that are being dangled in front of you are just non-inspiring. Unfortunately we associate negative labels with disinterest. A few words that come to mind - lazy, thoughtless, dispassionate, unmotivated, aloof. But, to disengage can be healthy, so do not feel a single bit of guilt. Instead, examine what is missing - why aren’t you activated by this situation? There could be useful information hidden here in your level of indifference. Perhaps the people involved or the task at hand just simply doesn’t resonate with you like you though they might. And, if not…what/who would instead? Maybe, you just need a break from the nonsense of it because you can no longer take it seriously. Alternatively, it could be that you just don’t care…and that’s allowed. Cut yourself a break and give yourself permission to foster this detachment. You’ve likely earned it and who knows where it will lead?

“Being detached means not getting attached to old thinking, bad memories, hurts and resentments.” – Remez Sasson

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

The Fool - Reversed…

This week, strategy is your friend. We are now sprinting directly in the middle of the holiday dash, so everything will begin to feel heightened and frenzied. The only way to really get ahead in this crazy race is to…slow down. Pace yourself! And to find the right pace, you have got to have a plan. Take a moment tonight to stretch it all out by examining what obligations you have upcoming and really figuring out your best approach to complete them all with confidence and grace. While you are doing that, recognize it’s likely that even more hurdles will be thrown in your path as you move through the week, so figure out how you can best leap over them as they appear. Ready yourself for anything, because anything can and will be thrown in your path. While you are rushing through your days, don’t lose sight of the support system you have right at your feet - in fact, figure out now how you might best utilize your network to advance in the right direction with ease. If you can prepare with specificity and really take this week at your own pace, you will feel triumphant when you make it to the weekend. So, plan ahead, my friends! Don’t just run blindly into the fray…

“Life is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself accordingly.” - Amby Burfoot

The Fool - Artists Print by Todd Alcott Graphics - available on Etsy

The World - Reversed…

How peculiar yet wonderful that we began our week with The World (upright) and are starting our weekend with The World (reversed). When a powerful card like this repeats in this way, I think it’s calling for us to look at the two occurrences together. In this case, I think we have to change our approach entirely for the weekend ahead. Which could mean really taking a look at what we have planned this weekend and turning it all on it’s head! Do you have plans this weekend that are not that thrilling to you? Either cancel and plan for something that inspires you or figure out a way to take those obligations make them even more exciting in their execution. Perhaps it’s the reverse of that? So MUCH on the calendar that feels very festive? Maybe you need to realign your intention around those events and find deeper meaning and a more even attitude as you entertain them all? There is the possibility that what you believe you are diving into this weekend, is not quite what it seems, so being ready for anything is advised. If you need to foster more control of the situations at hand, though, greet everything with a different strategy - step outside of your comfort zone, shake it up and have fun swirling around in the unknown!

“To change ourselves effectively, we first have to change our perspective.” - Stephen R. Covey

The World (Reversed) - Art by Sonia Lazo

The Nine of Cups…

Have you ever had one of those mornings where you know you must suit up and be ready to be tossed into the deep end in an ocean teaming with sharks?! You can prepare to steel yourself and invoke as much self protection that you could possibly muster, but you still feel the terror of what awaits? What if you tried the opposite, though?! What if you used the golden parts of self to your best advantage, opened up your heart center and allowed your glimmering spirit to rise above it all? Let’s face it, you are a treasure that radiates love, joy and confidence, when you aren’t hiding it under the surface, so be all of those things in an impenetrable way. If you float, effortlessly above all of that danger and negativity, they can’t reach you, my loves. So rise - rise above it and let your true worth shine! Happy Thursday.

“Sometimes we just need to remember we have the power to rise above it all.” - Donna Martini

“Whoever is trying to bring you down is already below you.” - Many Wise People

The 9 of Cups from The Light Seer’s Tarot by Chris-Anne

The Queen of Cups…

Hey Queens - be sure to lead with your emotions today! You need to make sure that everyone knows exactly how you feel. I know that sounds a bit risky, but your emotional understanding of the situation you find yourself in is on point. In fact, others are looking to you for guidance on just how to feel about what has recently transpired. When you share this watery content, be sure to serve it with focused compassion and a side dish of inner knowing. Be seductive with what you know to be true, but gentle in the distribution. Allow your own spirit to wash over others with fierce reassurance, but do not hide the truth of what is there. When the tide moves out, you will find yourself respected and admired for how you have handled this moment. Trust your feelings and own your emotional power.

“Expressing emotions doesn’t make you weak…it makes you real.” - Anonymous

The Queen of Cups from the Tarot Apokalypsis by Erik C. Duane and Kim Huggens

The Tower…

A friendlier version of the Tower - what?!? Listen, when we pull this card, we can allow it to fill us with dread and fear or we can accept, with grace and understanding, that nothing is built to last. BUT, does that mean we shouldn’t try to fortify and strengthen what we do have established in hopes that we might weather all storms? Hell no! The game of life is all about building yourself up after a tear down and, let’s face it, if we look back on our tear downs, there have been quite a few throughout the years. But, each time we rebuild, we grow even stronger than before. Look back on your younger years and think about how far you have come and how much you have grown! Lessons present through incredible disappointments and those lessons allow you to grow even taller and widen your expansion. So, for now, we are standing upright with confidence and feeling like nothing can conquer our beauty, but perhaps tomorrow or next month or next year we will be forced to reinvent ourselves. Kinda fun to be your own personal Fixer-Upper, when you give in to the chaos of total destruction.

“Life’s greatest difficulties always happen before life’s greatest breakthroughs.” - Billy Cox

The Tower from The Good Tarot by Collette Baron-Reed

The World…

Mondays can be quite magical. Didn’t feel it?!? Well think back on your day and recall all the tiny hidden moments of connection. What fun stories were shared with you? How many people greeted you with a smile? Who made you laugh…or cry? What delicious tastes, harmonious sounds or comforting feels did you experience today? How did you share of self with others? The World is ours and we can be the world to each other. So, believe in the magic of it all - you deserve your fair share of what is continuously offered! If you didn’t feel the power of it today, as you drift to sleep tonight ask the world to revisit you in your dreams. It will show up in surprising ways, even as you slumber. Sweet dreams!

“The World is its own magic.” - Shunryu Suzuki

The World - Artist Rendering on Deviant Art

Three of Cups - Reversed…

Are you feeling a little jilted and dismissed by people you thought you were close with? If you have been made to feel excluded within a certain circle of friends, perhaps it’s to your benefit. They haven’t been entirely upfront with you regarding the true energy of their bond and how you might fit into that seemingly magical union. Within their celebratory energy dwells insincerity. In fact, their brand of togetherness is filled with deception and judgment and when friends connect over the malicious mocking of others, there will never be trust in that union. Perhaps you have perceived something was not “quite right” within these circles for sometime, but just couldn’t give up the fun social element they promised. But, now that you feel cast aside, really examine their dynamic. Was it ever truly fun? It might be time to ditch the clique find a better bunch.

“Words are easy, like the wind. Faithful friends are hard to find.” - Shakespeare

The 3 of Cups (Reversed) from The Spiral Tarot Deck by Kay Steventon

The King of Wands…

We are entering the very first weekend of the holiday season, so there is no better time to take the lead in establishing how you would like to be a part of the revelry as the season advances. You have the power and mystique to enliven any gathering and to subtly become the ruler of the room. So, as you enter this weekend, don’t be afraid to become the inspiration for a joyful and fiery experience for all. As creative and devilish impulses emerge (and they will), think on how to illuminate these ideas for others, so they may become fully realized. You don’t have to be the “life of the party” to control the room - just ignite the vibe with carefully crafted passion and excitement and watch as the celebrations go from simmering to full on flames. Light up the weekend and allow the first few celebrations to set a vibrant and heat filled tone for what is to come. Give new meaning to “make the yuletide bright.”

“It’s not about going to a party. It’s life as a party.” - Diane Von Furstenberg

The King of Fire (Wands) from the 78 Tarot Elemental - Art by Heather Hudson