The View From Here

COD - The Magician

2011-01-28T13:04:00.003-05:00

So I haven't posted in a few days - I read somewhere "If you don't want to know the answer then don't ask the question" and that is how I have been feeling. So today I was riding in the car and thinking about moving and what a huge task it is. I was also thinking that sometimes the only thing that changes is your place - if you don't change or move on then the move was only physical - not mental or spiritual. I am doing a lot of soul searching as well as cleaning out of the junk that has accumulated over the years. I have come to the conclusion that your possessions weigh you down. If and when I move to a new place I want to have a clean start, I want to live in the moment, I want to see with fresh eyes - I want it to be a rebirth of sorts.

I just asked for general guidance today and drew The Magician from the Shadowscapes Tarot. My feeling on this card is a lot of what I have been think and feeling. I have to make the magic happen. I have to take what will be new and put my stamp on it and make it my own. I have to see the beauty around me and create even more. I also have to find peace with my decision and I think this will be the hardest thing for me to do. My move will be a step forward on my life journey and should be embraced and welcomed. My new space is a clean slate to decorate as I choose. I should be feeling excitement not stress - I want to live in the moment.

COD - Two of Cups

2011-01-13T08:23:00.004-05:00

So we went to see some houses that are on the market on Tuesday and I wasn't really liking any until we saw the last one. My husband and I both liked it a lot and it is in our price range - very doable. The house is in excellent shape - we could move right in. It is in the community I wanted and there was just something about it - it felt right. I could see us living there. The problem is we did not have an offer on our house yet. Well that very night we got a call from our agent with an offer. It is way lower than we want and we put in a counter offer but I am so hoping we can make this a go. Finding a perfect house and an offer that same night - could this be any better?? We are going back today to have another look at the house, so my question this AM was "How will we feel about the house when we see it again today with fresh eyes?" The Two of Cups from the Shadowscapes deck flew out of the deck before I even had a chance to shuffle. Are we going to love the house?? The Two of Cups - making a connection, a union, harmony, etc. I am also thinking that it could signal a common ground or resolution to selling our house and maybe a contract!!!!! All in all a good card for the day. I am a great believer that things happen because they are suppose to - the universe offers us gifts, opportunities, choices, a chance and we can take it or ignore it and then things will unfold from that point. I had another house I liked but just wasn't sure about - I didn't feel as positive about it as this one - we had no offers when this house was my choice - now I see that it is really out of our price range and the new house just came to our attention on the day we got an offer - fate - I want to think so ; )

Ten of Pentacles & Four of Swords

2011-01-09T13:46:00.002-05:00

Ok so here's the story - I am trying to sell my house and have had quite a number of couples look at it. Last week I had people in and they really liked it - so last night I got a call they wanted to come back with the man's parents. These are the first to take a second look - I was so excited I hardly slept all night - but I was sad too because I have lived in this house a long time and have lots of good memories. So this AM I decide to draw a card and my question is how will the viewing go - I pick the Ten of Pentacles. I am thrilled - could I have picked a better card - I don't think so. But I cannot leave well enough alone so I have to ask will I get an offer soon and pick the Four of Swords - bummer I now think.

Well they come with mom and dad and I do not get a warm and fuzzy feeling. I do not think dear old dad likes the house at all - they don't stay too long. I am not sure about these cards now - I was hoping the Ten of Pentacles meant they were the right family for my house and would make me a good offer, being a pentacle and all. But that Four of Swords - now I can take this a lot of different ways - right now I am taking it to mean - limbo but my dreams are not out of the question. I got this meaning from Tarot Dynamics and I am going with it. I could also see this as because I am stressed out I am having negative thoughts and I need to chill and relax and let the universe do its thing - yea that works too ; )

COD - Knight of Cups

2011-01-08T11:53:00.003-05:00

Another beautiful card - I am thinking maybe I should have a question or idea when I pull my COD. Anyway my conflict for today (so far) is whether to paint or bead - or do both. I guess maybe this Knight is telling follow my heart and do what I really want to do not what I think I should do. I know that is what this knight would do. I have problems with courts - are they me, someone else in my life, traits I should adopt - you get the idea. Well I will proceed with my day and see what develops - still can't decide - paint or bead, hmmm..

COD - Three of Cups

2011-01-07T14:31:00.002-05:00

Well this is a card of celebration. So I got rejected from a PA Gallery today, scheduled a cat scan, have had no offers on my house - hmmmm is that three things to celebrate. Really things could be worse and hey the day isn't over yet - the mail hasn't arrived ; )

COD - Queen of Wands

2011-01-06T15:39:00.002-05:00

Pulled this card this AM with no question in mind. As all the other cards in this deck I love this image - there is so much to look at in these cards. This is a card of confidence - I really do not identify with this queen - I feel I am more the Cups/Pentacles type. I painted today and finished another nice abstract - so for me today this queen is addressing my creative side. I will be doing some beading later so I hope this creative streak continues. I have to say I am enjoying the companion book for this deck - I like the descriptions and meanings for the cards. One of the meanings for this queen is cheerful and upbeat - 2 qualities I want to have over the winter - I tend to get sad in the cold dark months.

COD - Ace of Wands

2011-01-05T12:29:00.002-05:00

I love this image - is it the bright warm colors or just the 3 foxes - to me it is a happy card. I am feeling very creative. I want to paint and make jewelry again. I have been going through my patterns and trying to decide what to bead next and I want to do 10 things at once. In the Shadowscapes book the phrase that jumps out at me is "plant the wand firmly in the ground" - this I will do and hopefully my creativity will start to shine. I must stay focused - pick a project or two and just do it.

COD - Ace of Pentacles & Ten of Cups

2011-01-04T12:03:00.010-05:00

Drew these cards today - the two both wanted to come out so here they are. I didn't pick until almost noon and I had painting in mind. Since I am going to paint now as it is getting late I will read these later tonight - I already have a feeling about the message so I can see if I am right or not and I will be honest.

So it is almost 8 PM and I am getting back to my 2 tarot cards for the day. When I pulled them I had in mind doing some painting and was wondering how that would turn out. I saw the Ace of Pentacles as creativity and reward for hard work and being an ace and this would be my first painting session of 2011 I took this as a positive. For some reason I felt the Ten of Cups as feeling positive or content with myself - not a usual meaning for that card but just my feeling today with the Ace and my plans for the day.

So it turned out that I didn't have as much time for painting as I hoped but did manage to finish a small abstract and guess what - I like it and am feeling pretty pleased with myself - so my take on these 2 cards in reference to my art was right on.

COD - Five of Swords

2011-01-03T17:38:00.003-05:00

Hmmmm - what's with the swords?? I drew this card in the afternoon today and am a bit stumped. I am having a so-so day. Got bad news last night - I am trying to sell my house and have 2 houses in mind to buy and I found out one of them has been sold. I was so bummed and then started worrying that I will lose the other house if my house does not sell soon. I should have pulled the Nine of Swords - I didn't sleep all night thinking about it. I can see this card as conflict and I certainly am conflicted about all this. I am having very negative thoughts but there is nothing I can do to move this along. Maybe that is the message - I can't move this along - interesting. Another meaning from the Shadowscapes booklet is - you feel like the world is allied against you - perhaps a wider view might eclipse this feeling. Yea that's the ticket - that houses wasn't meant for me and I will find the one that it is.

COD - Knight of Swords

2011-01-02T12:33:00.003-05:00

Love the image on this card - well I LOVE this deck!!! So my card for today is the Knight of Swords and this card just shouts victory. No nonsense here - this knight is wasting no time or motion - he is cutting thru the crap and taking no prisoners. This will be my theme for the day - get something done!!!! I can waste so much time I just don't know where the day goes but it is gone and nothing has been accomplished. Not today - my goal is to finish the bead embroidery collar that I have been working on for way to long. I am going to attack it like the Knight of Swords and finish it - victory will be mine!!!! Off I go to conquer the bead table ; )

New Years Day 2011

2011-01-01T18:12:00.006-05:00

I decided to pull a few cards for the new year - from The Shadowscapes Tarot.

What do I need to leave behind from the previous year - Six of Cups - Maybe I need to leave behind my childish ways - this was my first thought when seeing this card. Time to step it up and take charge. I hope to leave behind a lot of old baggage from 2010 - I want 2011 to be a fresh start for me.

What do I need to carry over from 2010 into 2011 - Death - Woah but my first thought on this card is that I was willing to sell my house and make some major changes and I need to carry this over and actually get it done in 2011. This will be a year of changes - doors closing and doors opening. A rebirth and a new slate - yea I can see this.

Advice for 2011 - Wheel of Fortune and The Moon. I planned on only pulling once card but ended up with two. I think these continue the above theme. Change, taking chances, luck and leaving the old worry and anxiety behind. I see that Moon card as telling me to look at things closely - don't be dazzled by an illusion but look beneath the surface for what is real and true.

These cards ring true for me - especially for where I am in my life now. Lots to think about here and I will revisit this reading throughout the year.

COD - Six of Swords

2010-11-02T10:29:00.004-04:00

My card for the day - and what a beautiful image. Six of Swords - passage away from difficulties. Hey who wouldn't want this - a movement towards calming times. I can only hope - problem is, my difficult times are mostly of my own making and in my mind - hence the swords. I am hoping for a wonderful day - I was not feeling well at all last night and had been thinking I might be coming down with what everyone around me has - I was wondering if you could will yourself well - I am going to try. About this card I love the image and I also love crows even if they represent difficulty in this card. I can actually feel the lifting up of the swan and the softness of it's feathers ; )

COD - Nine of Pentacles

2010-10-31T11:52:00.003-04:00

So - lately I am sitting feeling sorry for myself - why?? I go to pull my card of the day from the Shadowscapes Tarot and out pops the Nine of Pentacles. Last night before bed I was analysing my "feeling sorry for myself" and why. Really I have such a wonderful life, I have a roof over my head, food on the table, a family, talent, not a lot of problems, relatively good health - I should be on cloud nine not feeling sorry for myself. This card sums all that up - it is good to take stock of your life and your material possessions BUT also your spiritual beliefs and connections. Once you do this it is hard to feel blue - there are literally millions of people worse off then me so feeling this way is just wrong. The tarot never ceases to amaze me - I cannot believe this card just fell out of the deck this AM but it did. It was just what I needed to remind me of just how luck I am and to celebrate my life. The image is beautiful and makes me smile and be thankful for all that I have.

Shadowscapes Tarot - Knight of Wands

2010-10-30T11:21:00.006-04:00

I bought the Shadowscapes Tarot Deck and it is beautiful. To help me get acquainted with this deck I am going to pull a daily card. I wanted to first mix up the cards and while doing this the Knight of Wands popped out so this is a good place to start. Well I do not relate to this card at all - the fiery nature of this knight is just not me at all. Maybe I need to have some of these qualities in my life right now??

Weird thing I am trying to sell my house and the real estate agent just called me and she sure is a wand and this card would describe her to a tee. Maybe that is why I got the card and the phone call - interesting. I will see what the rest of the day brings.

I have been thinking about this card ever since this AM. Thinking how when I was younger I used to charge through the day - from one thing to the next with confidence. I have lost that as I have gotten older - now I am almost afraid to make a decision, afraid I might make a mistake. I wonder does this happen to everyone?? Is this just a problem because of our poor economy?? Am I becoming my father ; )

Seriously though - I feel I have changed so much - for the better I don't know. I do know I have lost focus and confidence - maybe I do need some of the Knight of Wands qualities in my life again. How to get them and how much is the question.

COD - Four of Wands

2010-01-31T12:35:00.002-05:00

My card today Four of Wands. A celebration is in order - well I will know if that is true tomorrow. Maybe I will sell something today - I have watchers on my art work on Ebay and a new necklace to list on Etsy - that would be a celebration and one to tie into the creative wands card. Lets see what the day brings.

COD - The Princess of Swords

2010-01-30T09:53:00.002-05:00

Hmmm - drew this card just the other day - so what do I need to be aware of today. Well I need to be careful about making any decisions today - think them through carefully. Will I get a message that is not good today - as a page can be a message? Well I have no idea so I will see how the day unfolds and post back this PM.

COD - Princess of Swords

2010-01-26T13:40:00.002-05:00

So how can I say upbeat - this little Princess of Swords is telling me it is all in my mind. If I think negative thoughts I well feel negative and well just plain lousy. Easier said than done - for me anyway. So OK now I know think rosy thoughts and the day will be wonderful - wish it were that simple. Seriously I am my worst enemy - I need to get a grip.

COD - Death

2010-01-25T12:37:00.003-05:00

So I had to go to a meeting this morning and there was this guy there that hi-jacked the whole thing - one of those that likes to hear himself talk. It was so bad I could just about stay in my seat - I wanted to jump up and punch him. It was just that aggravating. My question today was how can I be more tolerant. My card Death - written on the top portion of this card is transformation. In order for me to become more tolerant I must change and change in a big way. One meaning is stripping away outgrown feelings or beliefs. I must say I am very judgemental and I always rely on my first impressions - if I don't like someone chanches are that I will not change my feelings. As I get older I guess I need to look at things differentely - give people a chance and not so totally rely on that first impression. Something I need to work on and believe me it will not be easy. Lets see how I do next week when the same old coot is at the meeting - hehehe.

COD - Princess of Cups

2010-01-23T12:19:00.005-05:00

Pulled a card this AM - just for a general feeling about today. Princess of Cups - meanings imaginative, emotional, dreamy or moodiness. Hmmm - it is a bright sunshiny day and I don't want it to turn into an emotional moody day - so at least I am aware that this could happen - I need to try not to let it happen. I want to get some things done, be happy and have a nice day (insert smiley face here). Having pulled this card I will be sure to keep the emotions in check. I am loving this Tarot deck - so glad I decided to use this one rather than the Druid Craft. I love the image on this card - so much water and this little princess looks like she could be a bit pouty.

COD - Justice

2010-01-22T19:42:00.002-05:00

My card today is Justice and I am continuing on my being more productive theme. This card is all about decision making and isn't that the key to being productive - choosing the right thing to do and using your time wisely. So did I do this today - it is 7:45 PM now. No not at all - I did a bit of beading but wasted a whole lot of time on the computer today. I wouldn't mind wasting time if I was doing something else like cleaning my house but no, the computer again. I am going to have to take some drastic measures here - limit my time to just the morning and a bit in the evening. I need as this card states a rational solution to this problem.

COD - The Hermit

2010-01-21T11:22:00.004-05:00

I have decided to explore The Hero's Journey Tarot deck rather than the Druid Craft - I am much happier already - I love this deck. I have had it a long time and never worked with it instead using the Transformational Tarot (my favorite deck) - both are from Arnell Ando.

OK so my question - "What can I do to be more productive today?" My card The Hermit. I am in a "Hermit" state of mind lately - thinking, planning, searching, reevaluating, so a very good card for the day. As far as being productive - this card is telling me first to stay home - I cannot be productive if I am not home right. One meaning Arnell has given this card is to get in touch with one's creative self - good advice for me since I am in an artistic/creative slump and am filled with self doubt. The most appropriate meaning for me today for this card is "one who cares little for the approval of others, who is independent and on the path to individuation".

So I am off this time-wasting computer to create something wonderful.

COD - Ace of Swords

2010-01-12T15:29:00.005-05:00

I seem to be having a great day today - I had a nice sale in my Etsy Shop and a call for an interview for the local paper - so I thought I would pull a card. I pulled the Ace of Swords - this card is telling me I may be coming into a time of clarity. Maybe this is the beginning of something good - I sure hope so. I need to cut out the time wasting and get moving and make things happen - I hope finally things are going to start to change for me.

I must say that this deck is NOT speaking to me at all. The cards are large and my hands small so that is one problem also I do not like the physical feel of the cards another problem. But I am just not feeling this deck. I know that is an abstract statement but it is the truth right now. I am thinking of choosing another deck to work with. I hate to give up on this one so soon but maybe I am missing out on a good reading deck that I have in the drawer. I can always revisit this one later right! Off to look in the tarot drawer.

COD - The Magician

2010-01-09T20:48:00.002-05:00

It is late in the day - well actually it is night but a friend has asked me to go on a little road trip on Wednesday - so I thought I would pull a card. From the Druid Craft - The Magician - well on the surface I can't see this telling me too much about a road trip or whether I should go or not. This friend is an "art" friend. I am having a hard time with my art lately - a problem because the winter is the time I usually do most of my painting. I see the Magician as an action card - having the power to focus and make things happen. Hmmm - maybe I should go - we would be going to a Gallery and maybe that is just what I need to get me painting again. I have been somewhat of a hermit this winter - well it is unusually cold and I hate cold and snow - so maybe a day out would be good for me. I think I may just go maybe it will be an inspirational day for me and get me moving with the brush again.

COD - The Fool

2010-01-05T17:48:00.003-05:00

Pulled this card this AM. I woke up in a good mood - very optimistic. I found a web site that is offering an on line course on Photoshop Elements. I think I may do this - I always used Photoshop but couldn't afford to buy a new copy for my Vista computer so I got Elements instead. I like Elements a lot but am not as proficient with it as I was from years of using Photoshop. When I pulled this card I thought it was an even better idea - a new adventure and a new beginning. For me The Fool is such a happy card - the beginning of the unknown - no preconceived ideas - just go with the flow. I am hoping 2010 will be a more enjoyable year filled with adventure. I also bought a leather cuff from and Etsy shop - I had been admiring it for awhile and decided to just do it and buy it today - I am so excited - it is really an awesome cuff.

COD - Two of Pentacles

2010-01-02T11:15:00.002-05:00

Decided to draw a card for today - Two of Pentacles from the Druid Craft Tarot. So first just looking at this card I see contradictions - the storm raging on the see and the calm of the land. So much like the weather here today in NJ - cold and oh so windy outside while I am indoors nice and warm and about as calm as I get. So will I have a storm raging in my life later today?? If so then must I juggle the storm and the calm - I sure hope not. This card is all about balance - something I am lacking in my life - my biggest problem is wasting time - I need to work on better using my time. I spend way too much time on the computer and thinking or planning what I want or need to do and I DO NOT spend enough time doing. No balance here. Today I want to work on this - baby steps but lets see how it goes trying to get something accomplished before dark!

OK I just looked at the book that came with this deck and the meaning of this card is so interesting and meaningful to me. It talks about how attractive it is to have two of anything but keeping them both in play can become stressful. Hmmm - I have two houses one in NJ one in PA and all the joy and problems that come with them - I have two passions or occupations artist and jewelry maker and I feel divided about this. This card says that although you have things in your life you have to juggle what makes them a joy should be your attitude. Interesting. I feel I have to sell one house and have mixed feelings about which - so maybe I should just enjoy both for now and worry about the decision when it has to happen. Now about the art and jewelry this is the real burden. I am first and foremost an artist - I took up the jewelry as a nice hobby but it has become so much more. I agonize about how I am short changing the painting. The truth is right now I have no desire to paint but I am feeling guilty for not making the time. I think I need to reevaluate this - if it is not pleasurable or a joy to do (either the jewelry or the painting) just don't do it and stop obsessing about it. Go with the flow and the painting will come again.

So I have a lot to think about today - I want to bring the balance back into my life and I want to be happy - sure sounds simple. This card is telling me that the storm raging is of my own making - look to restore balance and everything will fall into place.

New Year New Goals

2010-01-01T14:30:00.011-05:00

So a new year is here - I cannot believe it is 2010 already - the time just flies by especially so when you are getting older. For this new year I want to get back into the Tarot both to study and reading. I have decided to try to work with some different decks - I have a lot of decks and most I have never used. So I decided to go with the Druid Craft Tarot for now - we shall see if it speaks to me or not - if not I will choose a different deck to work with.

Since it is New Years Day I decided to just do a 3 card spread to get a feel for the deck and the past and coming year. I normally do a larger reading for new years but not this year.

Position 1 - What I need to leave behind from the past year - Ace of Swords

Since I am new to this deck and want to study and learn from it my first impression looking at the image is someone that was drowning coming up or rising to the surface. I must admit that is the feeling I have if I think back over 2009 - being submerged by life's problems and my own self doubt and fears. My first impression is I need to leave all that baggage back in 2009 and rise above it all this coming year. Aces are beginnings and the ideas and plans made in 2009 now need to be realized. I need to cut myself free from self doubt and fear and begin to move ahead with my life. If I look at the negative meaning of this card it could mean cutting yourself off from a person or a thing. Thinking about this I guess I cut myself off from my spiritual self - I did not take good care of myself in 2009 and I abandoned my beliefs. This too much change in 2010.

Position 2 - Coming Year - Seven of Swords

I of course know the traditional meaning of this card but I just want to look at the image here. I see a man who has accumulated a number of swords and seems to be recording this or planning something. He seems deep in thought. OK - this coming year needs to be a year of change - since I hate change I need to plan it carefully. I always need to know that I am making the correct move - silly because you can't know this but I try like this guy and I do it with pen and paper. I think this year we need to take stock of our assets and plan for the future - a scaled down future at that. I need to look at our possessions and keep what is important and get rid of the rest. One of the meanings for this card in the accompanying book is meeting a challenge with strategy or being bold and daring. Hmmm I am not the daring type. I think 2010 will be a year of change, challenge and growth - I hope mostly good.

Position 3 - Advice - Five of Cups

My first look and feeling is someone very distracted not paying any attention to what is lost or what remains. If this is to be a year of change I need to remember what I have that is good and keep it and do not morn what will be lost. I need to tow the line and avoid distraction - keep my eye on the prize so to speak. Cups are water and emotion - I need to make sure I do not let my emotions run wild this year - get down and start to feel sorry for myself. I need to look at what I have and be thankful. So for 2010 look ahead, be thankful and look for opportunity and don't forget to plan.

I don't know if I will be pulling a daily card or just doing spreads from time to time or maybe just posting my learning experience with cards from this deck - we shall see.

COD - Ten of Ghosts

2009-10-06T15:10:00.002-04:00

Just pulled a card no question - maybe because it is late afternoon. Ten of Ghosts (Cups) pretty much describes my day - staying at home with the cats and Richie, planning a nice dinner and not getting anything accomplished. That's me the home body - when I am in NJ I hardly every go outside the door - not so in PA.

I need to get motivated and get some things done around here - I have a to-do list does that count??

COD - Five of Bats

2009-10-05T11:55:00.004-04:00

I cannot believe I have not pulled or posted a Tarot card since January - boy am I out of practice. I just pulled out my favorite Tarot Deck "The Halloween Tarot" and decided to pull a card.

I am going back to my art group tonight - haven't seen them since May so my question is "How will it go?" Curious card the Five of Bats, I always look to see which figure on this card I relate to - today it is the pathetic one crying in the background. I haven't painted in a long time so I am thinking I may not have much success tonight - which will make me sad. At least expecting this maybe I can better handle it or be prepared for not such a good outcome.

If per-chance I do pull one off, I must remember not to be like the main figure in this card - all full of myself - but it would be nice ; )

New Years 2009

2009-01-01T12:10:00.003-05:00

Decided to pull some cards for the new year and I saw this spread on the internet - it was simple - I just didn't feel like doing a major spread for the coming year just yet. So:

Position 1 - What should I keep from this past year - Eight of Swords - Well this took me back a few steps. I see this as a negative card - keep this?? Thinking about this and my present situation - maybe time to move forward and get out of the rut. Seeing my way out of this financial situation - moving forward - hell just moving! I have been taking baby steps but have been making plans - I need to keep that forward motion going.

Position 2 - What to leave behind - Judgement. Meanings for this card is the end of a cycle - moving forward - a life altering decision - renewal and rebirth. Well this is going along with the first card - I KNOW I need to make some decisions and they will be major and will alter our lives. Making these decisions will cause a LOT to be left behind also making the decisions will certainly be the beginning of a new cycle for us

Position 3 - Lessons to be learned - Page of Cups. Meanings - more rebirth but on an emotional level. A message or a new plan.

Sooo - nothing that I don't already know here. We need to make a decision about selling one of our houses and moving on. With this decision a lot will be left behind, possessions, friends, really our way of life. I have such a hard time making a decision of any kind so for me this will be monumental. I think the page is telling me to not get too emotional over it all - it has to be done and in the end we will be better off. I am thinking the Eight of Swords is telling me I need to get moving but it is OK to be cautious too. That little Page is telling me to lighten up - have some fun too - all is not doom and gloom - I really know what needs to be done.

I think 2009 is going to be an interesting year an I am wondering how it will play out and where I will be next year at this time.

Cat Reading

2008-12-28T13:53:00.006-05:00

I feed a stray cat and have been feeding him since his litter was born under my shed - there were 3 kittens and he is the last one - he was two this past spring. I haven't seen him since Christmas Eve and I was so worried - I had a nice Christmas dinner planned for him but he was a no show. I thought I would pull a card when he wasn't around again this morning. I pulled The Nine of Swords and The Wheel of Fortune. I wasn't sure about these two together and thought I would wait a bit and think about them.

My first thought with the Nine of Swords is me thinking about him and worrying especially at night - this describes what has been going on exactly. The tricky card was the Wheel - at first I thought he is gone - his luck has run out - this will be a turning point for us both. Then I thought maybe that was not the case and it could be lucky me he will return.

About 2 hours later my husband yells upstairs "Guess who is on the deck" - so now I know what the Wheel was telling me! The Nine was me worrying for nothing and the Wheel, lucky kitty he had his Christmas dinner today. Good ending!

Christmas Day Cards

2008-12-25T13:16:00.004-05:00

I dedided to pull two cards today - the Empress and the Two of Swords were my picks. This was just a quick Christmas reading - the Empress is telling me to enjoy Christmas at home - cook a good meal and maybe work on making some jewelry with the new beads I bought yesterday. The Two of Swords is telling me that just for today it is OK not to worry or think about problems - today is not a day for any decisions or negative thinking. Enjoy the day.

Merry Christmas.

Eight of Wands Rev.

2008-12-23T15:06:00.003-05:00

I wanted to pull a card and ask will my husband's company hire him back if and when the economy gets better. I picked up the cards and the Eight of Wands flew out of the deck and landed reversed on the floor in front of me. I do not usually read cards reversed but this was so obviously reversed I will.

Well my first feeling about this is not anytime soon or don't hold your breath. Funny one of the meanings in the book Tarot Plain and Simple for this card reversed is "loss of job" well this we have already. I just don't think this card is telling me the outcome is going to be positive here - but I guess I already knew but I still wanted to see what the Tarot had to tell me. The way the card flew out of the deck it is telling me don't even waste my time asking about this. I think I have the answer to my question.

2008 Winter Solstice Reading

2008-12-21T19:13:00.002-05:00

Reading December 21, 2009 using the Odyssey Deck

1. Which of my fears are likely false? Page of Cups
The fears that I am carrying from my youth – my emotional and immature fears. My fear that everything will be lost – that I will once again be poor like I was as a child and have to go back to living like that.

2. Which of my fears are likely true? Wheel of Fortune
A reversal of fortune – well my husband did lose his job – what I was afraid of. Ups and downs and right now we are in a down cycle – so true.

3. Which of my hopes are likely false? Hierophant
My hope that God will get me out of this financial situation. MY hope that someone will come along and tell me what I should do. I do not think this is going to happen – I NEED to do the work here.

4. Which of my hopes are likely true? The Star
Well this seems positive - hope promise and joy. This economic situation is only temporary – things will improve.

5. Where shall I stand in stillness? Nine of Cups
The wish card? Happiness – try looking at what I have not what I do not have – be happy.

6. Where shall I find movement and growth? Ace of Wands
In my creativity and my talent for painting and making jewelry. Use my energy and my talent to get ahead and make some money.

7. How may I best embody Presence / Goodness / Goddess in the year tocome? The Devil
This confused me a bit but when I think about it I know I need to get over my fears and move forward. Stop the negative thinking and think positive – think The Star.

I find this to be a very positive reading. It is really a clear picture of where I am right now and where I need to go.

COD - Temperance

2008-11-08T18:26:00.003-05:00

Well I drew Temperance again and under the circumstances it is a card I need to think about. Since my world revolved around money or lack of it now it is even a bigger issue than before. I am really trying to conserve and cut back and not to let my fears get the best of me. We have decided to wait until Richie's unemployment is all straightened out and coming in before we make any decisions. When I read the paper or hear the news it is so discouraging and pretty scary - I sure hope things improve but I do not see that happening anytime soon.

COD - Temperance and Seven of Cups

2008-10-31T11:45:00.008-04:00

It has taken me 2 days to write this entry. On Wednesday my husband came home early from work - I thought maybe he was sick but to my horror he was laid off. I knew business was bad but we still didn't see this coming. My first reaction was anger and panic - I have never felt so afraid in my life. I cried on and off and just wouldn't shut up about it - trying to think of what we were going to do.

For 2 days I was in a panic attack - not eating, not sleeping and crying. My husband is very laid back so I do all the worrying for us both. We filled out his papers for unemployment and getting that money would not be bad BUT our medical (COBRA) payment is going to be $580 a month and his insurance runs out today!

I was desperate - thinking we have to sell the house, I need to get a job, he needs to get a job - we will be homeless. I decided to pull 2 cards - on Wednesday night but I just was not ready to hear what they were telling me. I am now.

Temperance - how appropriate and I card I love. Compromise, middle course, balance, prudence, patience, wise management, etc. All of the things I forgot in my panic attack.

Seven of Cups - Appropriate also. Not think clearly (you think!!!!), too many options, scattered, illusions, and I love this one - not seeing the forest for the trees.

So what the Tarot is telling me is step back take a deep breath and take it a day at a time and we will get through it all. Do not make any rash decisions but see what options are available and then think things through - even get some professional financial advice before jumping into anything. There are a lot of options - but some better than others so plan carefully. In the meantime - practice Temperance. Try to make the best use of the money coming in, perhaps get a part time job, budget and try not to make any new bills. Try to stay focused and not get lost in the awful world of what if's.

So I am going to move forward - one day at a time.

COD - Ace of Bats

2008-10-09T12:25:00.004-04:00

I was thinking after I pulled this card today I don't usually get many Aces in reading for myself - interesting. Well I did today. What I was thinking about when I pulled this card is the community I live in in PA and the controversy swirling there. Power trips and political BS but still - do I jump into the fray or keep out of it all? At first glance this card is telling me to jump in but with logic and thought - in this deck Bats are Swords. I think it is telling me though to pick my battles and do not be swayed by what others think be my own person and fight my own battles. I think I am going to listen to this card today!!

COD - Five of Pumpkins

2008-10-08T13:23:00.003-04:00

It's been a long time since I have posted on this blog and I want to get back into the Tarot now that the Fall is here. I pulled out one of my favorite decks The Halloween Tarot and pulled a card Five of Pumpkins.

I was just looking for a generalization of where I am right now. Well this is about right - money problems as usual, feeling depressed and disappointed in my life - I see nothing has changed! In this deck pumpkins are pentacles and my life and problems revolve around money or the lack of it - so sad. Funny thing is I think just about everyone is in this same position with the economic hardships we are experiencing.

So what do I need to do here - maybe use my brain and talents (some air and fire) and see how I can improve things.

COD - Death

2008-05-04T09:10:00.002-04:00

I very rarely pull this card so when I do I take notice. I had a vague question in my mind about some news I had heard the other day but see no progress on. Some meanings of this card are liberation, renewal, change - well all of these would be progress in regards to the news - so maybe it is true.

This card for me - well I certainly need to make changes - and this card says change will happen no matter what so I better start to make change happen or it will be forced on me. I like the idea that a situation is coming to an end or that it is time to rid myself of outdated attitudes. We know how I hate and resist change but I do need a good shaking up - look out maybe it is coming! I just hope it is a positive and good thing. I do know my attitude has been somewhat negative and I really want to change - I will work on that today.

COD - Four of Pentacles

2008-04-30T09:03:00.003-04:00

No particular question - Four of Pents. So am I so focused on money matters that I fail to see anything else - in a word yes. I am always trying to save and conserve but always find the money going out anyway. I have trouble sleeping because I am always worrying. Just like my parents - history is repeating itself. I guess I should just get a job and be done with it - but I know I will never be done with it. I just want to wake up in the morning and not have my first thought be money! I cancelled the Tarot School Readers Studio because I though I couldn't afford it - I really wanted to go. I was reading this AM about the 2008 Bead Cruse - I would love to do that next year - but I couldn't afford it. I am in tears now. I NEED to focus on what I have. I NEED to figure out a way to market my art. I just talked to my cousin on the phone and I really do have so much in my life - lets think about that for today!

COD - Five of Pentacles

2008-04-28T09:00:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I feel like a motherless child! My first impression of this card today. Soooo what kind of day am I going to have. A poor me day?? Meanings for this card - loss, disappointment, hardship, troubles, wasted talent. That last one hits home. I use my talents - paint and making my jewelry but fail to market my product - what a waste. I have my art group meeting tonight - I really like painting with this group of abstract painters and think I am getting a lot out of it - I hope I don't paint a stinker tonight!! I have been feeling the $$$ crunch for so long - but so much more lately - with the price of everything - especially gas it is getting downright depressing. I wonder if I will get a big bill in the mail today?? Taxes due May 1st - there is no end - but yet I have so much more then others - that is the way I will think today - be thankful for what I do have and not dwell on the money problems.

COD - King of Pentacles

2008-04-22T13:36:00.003-04:00

I haven't posted in a long time and I really need to get back into my daily card. My question today was "How can I be a more positive person"? My card from the Odyssey the King of Pentacles. My first impression today looking at the image on this card is someone up on their "high horse", so above it all. So maybe step one in becoming more positive is get over myself - get of the high horse and be more realistic. Since this is a Pentacle I should be happy with what I have attained and what I have - more is not always better. Also maybe for me being more positive means being better organized - you think??

COD - Ten of Pentacles & Knight of Swords

2008-03-03T09:47:00.002-05:00

Well I thought I better pull a card today - I am feeling optimistic - maybe because I can tell Spring is coming? Maybe because I sold 2 bracelets from my Etsy Shop? When I chose the card I felt both cards wanted to be read.

I am not sure in what order neither came out first so here goes. The Ten of Pentacles - strong family ties, prosperity, property, security. All the things I hope for and just maybe have if I think about it. I want to sell this house and buy something smaller and have been looking but the value of this home is way down (but the price of other homes are as well). I just cannot seem to make a move other than just looking - I need to list this house in order for anything to happen and I just do not seem to do that. I need to explore that in a more in depth reading. I just wish my $$ problems would go away - maybe soon.

The Knight of Swords is a disturbing card in The Odyssey. I see this card as things happening fast and with turmoil but the dove signifies peace afterward. One meaning is a conflict or chaotic situation entering your life only to pass out quickly - probably not quick enough for me - I hate change or chaos. This card says to follow your head rather than your heart - being a Cup person not easy for me. I need to be strong and decisive!

Well two interesting cards - lets see how they unfold. Reading back the above - are these cards telling me to make a decision on the house - get some advice from a real estate agent and maybe list it and see what happens?? The Knight is telling me to think about it and decide?

COD - Knight of Cups

2008-02-27T10:37:00.003-05:00

My question was about the new shop I opened on Etsy for my abstract paintings. My question was how will it do? Well this card is not telling me much - maybe if it does not do well I should not get too emotional about it! This card can be a lucky card so maybe it will do good - I guess I was hoping for more information than this from the Tarot. I can see I am just going to have to wait and see. Maybe this is a neutral response - and it will do so-so like the jewelry shop? Well at least I did open up the shop that is a start.

COD - Three of Wands

2008-02-24T09:39:00.003-05:00

I haven't pulled a daily card in some time and this was something I wanted to do for 2008. I have been feeling really down lately - I don't know what it is - the long winter, lack of funds or just not feeling good - probably a combination of all three and then some.

I pulled the Three of Wands and my first thought is "lack of ambition". I am not aiming for the stars. This is so true - success will not come knocking on the door - you have to make things happen. I am not selling my jewelry or my art - hell I am not even painting. I sit and bemoan the fact that I have no success and I do nothing about it. This is not something new - a continuing theme in my woes.

What I want to do - no what I need to do is something marketing related - to start - just one thing each week - and then maybe increase this - but one thing a week to start. Today is Sunday - start of the week - I WILL do a marketing related task this week and report on it here.

I am going to keep this Three of Wands out until then - I am going to shoot my arrow into the air and aim for success!

COD - Five of Wands

2008-01-31T13:07:00.001-05:00

No question just pick a card. The Five of Wands - well that about sums up where I am right now - full of conflict. Conflicts about my art, jewelry, life and of course lets not forget money. Was reading about this card and one meaning is that you may have to be aggressive to overcome a conflict - well ain't that the truth. Aggressive I am not - maybe that is part of my problem. I would rather sit and think, be sorry for myself and mope than do something! I see a need for change here.

COD - Queen of Wands

2008-01-30T17:55:00.001-05:00

I work up this morning with this thought "Live your life without fear". Interesting - I drew the Queen of Wands for my card today - this Queen really lives her life without fear. I was thinking about my aunt and uncle they are 83 years old and driving to Pittsburgh to visit my cousin for the Super Bowl this weekend. The are so active and really live their lives to the fullest - a real lesson to be learned here. I let fear control my life - how do you stop this? Wand energy is a good start.

COD - Judgement

2008-01-29T10:41:00.001-05:00

I had no particular thought or question today - pulled Judgement. Am I being to judgemental about myself, about things in general, about other people - YES,YES. I was driving yesterday and saw a sign on a church "The Lord wants you to paint your life with joy" my comment "I would if I could afford the paint"!! What a downer - this is where my head is at right now. This was a great, uplifting quote and I still could find a negative response. Maybe I just need to get a job and be done with all these money issues - this is affecting everything in my life - I can't even sleep for worry - are my worries unfounded? A meaning for this card is a crucial decision and an ending of a cycle - I know this all ties in but how? I need to reevaluate my life and values - how is that for Judgement!!

COD - Ten of Pentacles

2008-01-28T10:43:00.001-05:00

I am worried about my new kitten he is having some problems and it is making me crazy. So much so I am really in a funk (well there are other things in addition to the kitten). I drew my card with this in mind today - Ten of Pentacles. I think I must not let the kitten feel my distress, he needs love and stability right now. I need to just see how thing play out for a bit. Being that this is a Pentacle I am hoping for some $$$ relief that would go a long way to relieving my stress about bills. I know this is rather disjointed but it does make sense to me. Guess I need to paint for e-bay.

COD - Three of Swords

2008-01-24T10:04:00.001-05:00

First I have to say I painted 2 watercolors for e-bay yesterday and both are sold - I guess I better get the brushes wet again today. My thought for today - I have my jewelry listed in my Etsy Shop but do not seem to be able to sell any there. I pulled the Three of Swords - soooo stop crying about it and promote the shop better (I have been trying) or try to find some other venues for the jewelry - I have been thinking about that - thinking (Sword) is not acting (Wand). I see this card as perceived sadness rather than something really to cry about. What happened to my being thankful for all I had - did it fly out the window in this card - I hope not. I should be thankful for the sales on e-bay. It is always about the $$$$ and never a Pentacle - why is that??

COD - Four of Swords

2008-01-23T08:54:00.000-05:00

I am feeling down and not getting anything done - winter blues - maybe. My card for today Four of Swords - well that sure fits!! I would say my Four of Swords time is over and I need to get up and get moving - time to get to stepping. Since this is a Sword my problems are mostly mental - I feel sad and depressed. I do know I stay inside way too much in the winter but with the price of gas who can be running all over the place. There it is again $$$$ the root of all evil and the root of all my problems. Time to get off my butt and try to make some - painting for e-bay today. I just wish I could make a sale on my Etsy Shop - that would perk me up!!

COD - Temperance

2008-01-21T10:37:00.001-05:00

My question or thought is should I paint some watercolors for e-bay and I pulled Temperance. I cannot do everything but need to do maybe a little of everything? I do make $$$ from my landscapes and not from my jewelry and abstracts - the two things I love and want to do. I also want to redo my web page. Work a little on everything this week and see how the mix plays out. I am also seeing that water flowing in the Temperance card - I will do some watercolors!

COD - The Magician

2008-01-19T09:56:00.001-05:00

"What do I need to get my life back on track?" From the Odyssey The Magician - do I say I need a little magick to get moving in the right direction or do I say not just magick but some hard work too? I am thinking a little of both. I am still reading The Secret and for such a small book it is taking me a long time. I just read the chapter on giving thanks and gratitude and find this to be something I want to practice more in my life. It is hard to have that "poor me" feeling when you are giving thanks for all that you do have and really I have a lot to be thankful for. I really like the image on this card and wouldn't mind making something magical happen but for now feeling very positive is magick enough. So much to do so much wasted time - no magick formula there this is the hard work part. So let me go and start my Saturday and see if I can make something good happen.

COD - Nine of Swords

2008-01-11T13:44:00.001-05:00

I was just thinking life is all about choices when I was pulling this card. Nine of Swords - so do your choices keep you up at night? Does the idea of making a choice scare you? Are you unable to make choices? Yes to all the above - well I hate change and choices usually involve change. I need to make some changes - about the house I live in, my second house, money (as usual), my art, well you get the picture. Funny think with me, I think of this stuff always before I go to sleep and it is enough to keep me up losing sleep. Sometimes deciding not to make a choice is making a choice - or is that a cop out?

COD - Queen of Wands

2008-01-10T09:29:00.000-05:00

Another Queen and no question - I know I need Wand energy in my life. I can feel the dark cloud of depression falling on me and I will not let that happen - I just need a sign or something to keep me moving forward - this card is telling me to make my own forward motion happen. I see the little black cat in this image - I am missing a black cat Ricky - he has been gone since before Christmas and I have no hope that he will be back.

There was nothing to celebrate yesterday - nothing great to report - too bad!

COD - Six of Wands

2008-01-09T11:20:00.000-05:00

No particular question today - Six of Wands. A triumph - will today be the day I finally sell something and have something to celebrate? This card says good news is on the way - I hope it get here soon. If something great happens I will write about it later - right now I am wasting time as usual!

COD - Three of Swords and King of Wands

2008-01-08T09:47:00.001-05:00

I am feeling pretty blaaaah so far this 2008 and I was wondering why and what to do about it so I drew two cards from The Odyssey.

The Situation - Three of Swords - heartbreak well I guess that would be feeling blaaaah! I always take this card to be thinking your are sad rather than really having a crisis in your life. I guess this is true since I cannot say it is this or that thing that is a problem - just feelings. I maybe need to think of happier things - sounds like a plan. Lots going on and maybe I need to keep my nose out of all of it.

Challenge/Advice - the King of Wands - well I may need to be creative in feeling better. I have ideas but just do not seem to get going on them - why not? Lack of motivation - this King shouts of motivation - I need some Wand energy in my life - I always do, but right now more than ever. Wand/Fire energy to burn away the blaaaahs.

Money always the root of all my problems and no Pentacles here!

COD - Queen of Pentacles

2008-01-07T10:03:00.001-05:00

Same card different day - Tarot trying to tell me something? Question "What do I do about e-bay - continue to paint my landscapes or bag it? Well I pulled this practical Queen again and she is saying - do you make money on e-bay? Well yea - then "start painting". Reminds me of the Rolling Stones "Can't Always Get Wat You Want" or in my case can't always DO what you want. I can and do make $$ on e-bay and right now I need $$ so it really is a no brainer. The Queen is also telling me I can do other things besides paint landscape paintings but be aware of where my priorities are and what sells and do that first - or get a real job. I better get the brushes out.

COD - Queen of Pentacles (rev)

2008-01-06T10:26:00.000-05:00

I am feeling kind of blaaaah today and even picked up my deck upside down - so my card is reversed. I don't usually read reversals but will today. My question - What do I need to be aware of today? My card from The Odyssey - the Queen of Pentacles - I do relate to this queen and I really like the image on this card. I am reading some reversed meanings for this card - brooding, stagnation, suspicion, distrust, self-doubt, greed, insecurity. Well that about sums up the blaaaahs doesn't it!

I was reading the book The Secret - basically think positive thoughts and all good things will come to you - but for me I find this impossible to sustain. I need a shot of success to get me going and thinking about having it, I believe, is just not enough. So here I go back to my wasted time and lack of motivation in promoting my art and jewelry. I am going today with three abstract paintings to be judged for entry into a show in March - think positive. I also feel I spend way too much time indoors - this Queen is earthy and loves the outdoors - I need to get out more - if just for a few minutes each day - walking would be nice but my neighborhood is another story - I also hate the winter! This all comes back to my fears and bad use of my time - like a dog chasing it's tail. So what do I do about today - well lets get this Queen upright - enjoy the day and be thankful for what I do have. For today be aware of how I am feeling and if it is sad turn it around - think spring, light a candle, laugh a bit and have a great day.

COD - The Moon

2008-01-05T08:53:00.001-05:00

I was selling my small landscape paintings on e-bay and doing quite well at it. In December my sales just stopped - I figure it was the holiday season and not a good time for me on e-bay. My question should I start trying to sell there again. First I have to say I HATE painting the small landscapes - they are very nice but I don't like doing them. If I am going to paint I would rather do my large abstracts. Sooooo I pull The Moon - always a favorite card for me but one that I do not get very often. Well is this some kind of mystery? This card can mean uncertainty - and my sales on e-bay are uncertain at this time. I think I will use my gut feeling/intuition to guide me on this one. Paint a landscape and put it out on e-bay if I feel like it but do not depend on that for income and see how it goes. I would really like to sell my jewelry on etsy - I also have plans of making a jewelry CD and sending it to some gift shops in the area and see if I can get myself in to a few for the upcoming summer season. Sounds like a plan. I think The Hierophant would approve!

COD - Justice

2008-01-04T12:37:00.000-05:00

The house I bought in PA is in a gated community - a rather large community and there is always stuff going on and fighting about different topics. They have a message forum and right now all hell is breaking lose there. I have been involved in this (somewhat) and I am wondering if I should just keep my silence for now or keep going - that was basically my question for today. I am shuffling and out pops Justice - no need to to even pull a card.

I think for now I have said my piece - there are too many rumors and much mis-information floating around. I think I will just sit back and see how this plays out for now. I must say it sure is interesting - this is how wars get started!!

COD - Queen of Swords

2008-01-03T09:37:00.001-05:00

This is the Queen I do not identify with at all - guess I need some of the Sword/Air energy in my life. I am very emotional and very non-assertive. If I want to get anything going with my art and jewelry I need to get off my ass and do something to make that happen. This Queen cuts through the BS and makes things happen. I need to use my head and come up with some good ways to promote myself and then promote!!!! What a concept. This Queen would never take no for an answer - she knows what she wants and gets it. Maybe that is the underlying problem - What do I want?? Well I do know one thing people are not going to come knocking on my door to buy art and jewelry - I need to get out and show it. OK - so what am I going to do about this?

COD - The Hierophant

2008-01-02T09:57:00.001-05:00

I wanted to pull a card for the New Year - and although I have several resolutions for 2008 my number one is, as always, better use of my time. From The Odyssey I pulled The Hierophant. Right off this is telling me I need to make a more "formal" effort of planning my days. I will need to be much more structured with my time - and really I do think that would work better for me. I need to get more organized - make a to do list. What I am thinking is I need to have one major thing I want to accomplish for the day or maybe the week and above all else that must be done. Then on the to do list there will be other things/tasks that can be worked on but only after the major task has been completed. I also need to limit my time on line - this is my major time eater and I am really going to have to get strict on this.

I also feel this card is telling me to not get so carried away with my scheduling that I have no time to do what I want or just goof off - rules are great but not if they are impossible to follow. I think my card for the year for 2008 is going to be The Hierophant - I need to be aware of both its positive and negative aspects.

COD - Seven of Wands, Six of Swords, Queen of Cups

2007-12-31T16:21:00.001-05:00

I wanted to pull a card or two to sum up the ending year and to get some advice to carry over into the next.

The first meaning I can think of for the Seven of Wands is holding your own. Well isn't that what I always do? I feel there were a few challenges during this past year but nothing extreme. I have been making an effort to get into a Gallery and I set some art goals and met every one of them. I made some money selling my art and jewelry. I have made great strides in getting better at making jewelry. The Six of Swords is all about moving towards calming waters - or better times ahead. I hope this is true for the upcoming year in general. I would like nothing better than to leave behind worry and anxiety. I am reading the book The Secret and am trying to put positive thinking into practice. The Queen of Cups - the card I guess I relate to being a Cancer - for me I always feel this card is telling me to tone down the emotions. I am going a Tarot conference in April this will be a good thing for me and trusting my intuition. I need to love more - myself and others - be good to myself.

So will next year be more of the same or a bit better??

COD - Hanged Man and Three of Swords

2007-12-30T13:35:00.000-05:00

Its been a long time since I have posted here and pulled a daily card. I want to get back doing this again - I think it is very helpful to my understanding of the Tarot and my life in general. My question was rather loose today but basically why did I stop pulling a daily draw and what can I do to keep up this practice again.

The Situation - The Hanged Man - Well that pretty much sums up what happened - time suspended. Days started to go by and I got out of the habit of pulling my daily card. Time does have a way of getting past me and this card from the Odyssey Tarot is all bout time. Another meaning of this card is a reevaluation - and I do feel that my daily card is very valuable and I want to start doing this again.

The Challenge - The Three of Swords - Interesting. I have a problem with this card because I do not take it as a serious loss or even a serious situation. Maybe the Tarot is telling me if I do not keep up with my daily readings it will be my loss!

COD - Six of Imps

2007-10-30T13:08:00.001-04:00

Still thinking of my time and productivity issues. Pulled the Six of Imps - boy that's some big horse. Six of Imps (Wands) - well the victory card? A meaning for this card is the likelihood for success - sooo do I pick what I am good at and just work at that? I know I cannot do everything - but end up mostly doing nothing, so there must be a fix for this somewhere. Reversed meanings - not up to the challenge, loss of victory or reward. I am thinking I need to zero in on one thing and work it to the max - easier said than done. But then again is doing a little of this and a little of that and a lot of nothing not a cop out for really trying and maybe failing?? Interesting - I have always said I am afraid of success - but oh how I say I want it!! Makes me ask the question if you try to do it all do you do anything well?

COD - Three of Ghosts & Ace of Ghosts

2007-10-29T11:27:00.001-04:00

I am thinking about wasting time again and how I never get much accomplished and am so easily distracted. I pulled these two cards with that in mind - the situation Three of Ghosts and the challenge Ace of Ghosts.

The Situation - Well I do not party but I do waste time. I do not make a plan and stick to it. This is nothing to celebrate - I need to reign myself in and get a grip and start being more productive. I need to make $$$ and move ahead with my life either art, jewelry or just plain get a job. I am looking for some kind of lofty meaning in this card but sadly I know what the problem is and continue to do nothing about it. Too much time wasted on the computer and too little time spent promoting my art and just plain making good art. I need a game plan here so I do have something to celebrate. I am just like these three ghosts - floating and hoping something good will happen.

The Challenge - Well we have an Ace here - nothing major is going to happen right away. I need to make a start and stick to it and build from there. This cup is overflowing - like my wasted time, which I need to be more careful with and put to better use.

What I find funny here as that both cards are Cups. Maybe I have too much Cup energy (I know I do). What is lacking here is another element. Swords - like thinking and planning. Earth - grounding myself so I am not all over the place but focused. Wands - like making more creative use of my time.

Lets see how I manage the remainder of my day - it is now almost noon and I have accomplished nothing.

COD - Ace of Bats

2007-10-22T12:53:00.001-04:00

I was thinking about the situation here in our NJ neighborhood when I drew this card. A personal victory/ new idea or insight/ determination etc. Well I guess this all pertains to what is going on here. Right now I am stuck - cannot move as houses are not selling and I am unsure if I want to stay in NJ or go to PA. If we go to PA we need to stay until Richie can retire early - a couple of years. Maybe the personal victory will be the awful people next door will move - I should be so lucky. I just do not know how I can stand living another year with them next to me. I am determined for them to go (since I can't) and need insight as to how to accomplish this. I will do some further reading about this. This card Ace of Sword is sometimes called strength in adversity - what an understatement that is!

COD - Page of Bats

2007-10-18T18:05:00.001-04:00

The Tarot group I belong to had an interesting question posted today - "What card represents your Life Lesson?"

I find this very intriguing I asked the question this way "What life lesson do I need to be aware of at this stage in my life".

Since I have been using the Halloween Tarot and it is on my desk I pulled the Page of Bats (Swords). This was a surprise - I was expecting a lofty Major Arcana card for my Life Lesson. Pages are the court cards I have the most problems with. Soooooo I am reading this as I need to be a bit more decisive in my life. I always have a problem making decisions and am always second guessing myself when I finally make one. Part of my problem is over thinking everything - even little things. So maybe my Life Lesson right now is do not take things so seriously - especially myself. It is OK to think and reason things out but make a dam decision and stick to it. I also think I could be a bit more assertive - since this is a Page - just a little assertivity is called for but do not become overbearing.

Or maybe I should just be careful I do not gossip!

This is what others had to say:

"What I often think of with the Page of Swords (Bats) is the willingness to be spontaneous in thinking, to take some risks in communicating. Take some chances. Pretty much what you've said but sometimes even a slightly different word may give something else to look at. "

"I always think of it as not taking things at face value, too. Fact-check what someone has told you and be willing to call them on it or challenge them if it's important. "

"In the osho zen deck the page of swords is called 'mind' and it points out that all the worrying and over thinking is pointless. Just drop all of it. Forget the worry about making a decision and the worry about over thinking. Just let it go. I think that telling yourself to make decisions brings you back to the same place of worrying about the decisions! "

COD - Six of Ghosts

2007-10-14T11:38:00.001-04:00

My card today Six of Ghosts - I really have been thinking about the past a lot lately. I had a conversation yesterday with my mother on the phone on a lot of past memories - we always remember the past more fondly then it probably was. I don't know what this thinking of the past is about but even my husband and I were talking about what things were like when we were kids. I guess I am getting older and remembering a simpler time? Maybe it is because I know I need to make some big changes and I am resisting them - like selling this house and moving. I want to explore this topic in the cards - I keep talking about it but do not make any move towards doing it. What am I waiting for? What am I afraid of?

COD - Ten of Pumpkins

2007-10-11T09:43:00.000-04:00

My question - the usual "What can I do to make today productive"? Ten of Pumpkins (Pentacles) - well I think I need to do something that will make $$$ which is painting landscapes for e-bay. I also need to do some cleaning around the house and maybe make some jewelry - well my usual day. I really need to come up with some better questions for my COD or go back to the 2 card draw or something, this is just not working for me right now. What about my great plans for my art marketing??

COD - The Devil

2007-10-08T15:09:00.001-04:00

No specific question just a general card for the day and from the Halloween Tarot up pops my old friend The Devil. Well it is now afternoon and my day has been full of temptation most of which I have fallen into. Wasting time on this computer and eating junk food are two. I know I need to better budget my time but I don't - I know I need to lose weight but I don't. I need to take a hard look at my days and really set down some rules that I follow until they become habits to replace the old bad ones. I did get 2 paintings done for e-bay so the day wasn't a complete waste. I aim to do better for the remainder of this day.

COD - The Devil

2007-10-04T09:34:00.001-04:00

I love this Halloween Tarot deck - I always use it this time of year but I get such good readings with it maybe I should use it more often. My question was "How can I stay on track"? especially after the pizza last night. Well this card is pretty self explanatory. Self-indulgence, temptation and a slave to my own desires. I need to be EXTRA careful today - it is going to be a tough day for me. I am already craving a slice of chocolate chip pecan bread and it's only 9:30 AM. I also need to watch out for the "poor me" attitude or the "I can just have a small bite" attitude. These two will always bring me down. This is going to be a long road and I need to travel it carefully. I need to get to the store and buy some "good" snacks - whatever they are. I need to remember the awful feeling of think I was dying the other night - I do not want to feel that way again - I still do not feel all that great.

COD - Eight of Ghosts

2007-10-03T11:19:00.001-04:00

My question today was what can I do to help me live a healthier lifestyle, feel better and lose weight. My card the Eight of Ghosts - my first thought I need to abandon (walkaway) from the life I am living now. It is destructive, stress filled and just not helping me feel good physically, mentally or about myself. I don't just think this is good advice I KNOW it is - I have come to the point where I really have no choice. I want to explore this further with the Tarot but this is a good start and today is the beginning of my turnaround. I find it interesting that I used that word "turnaround" as this card is a walking away buy I can see it as a turning around too - I may be walking away from an unhealthy lifestyle but turning to a better life. I will write more on this later tonight after my first healthy day.

A note about the reading I did the other day - the Three of Ghosts for the juried art show. I had hoped to win an award but thought I didn't - well I get a call yesterday - 2 days after the opening and awards ceremony - I did win an award and no one called me. I was so pissed - glad to win but unable to figure out how this could happen. So the Three of Ghosts was right on - a three for three, awards and exhibitions.

I also want to note this Eight of Ghosts card - I was reading the paper yesterday and an elderly man has gone missing here in NJ and I decided to pull a card and I pulled the Eight of Ghosts for him too. So I know he has walked/wandered away - I did not pull anymore cards so I don't know why or if he is OK - the Eight kind of rattled me.

COD - The Hierophant

2007-09-30T08:42:00.001-04:00

My question "What can I do to start living a more healthy life"? Well lets see what the Hierophant has to say about being healthy and eating right. This card can mean a search for spiritual meaning - I cast a circle last night - the first in a long, long time - I do know I need to get back into my spiritual practice of the craft. This card can also mean an expert - do I need to go back to WW again - I just cannot afford it - but I do not do well on my own. I know I need to "want" to do this but it is getting to the point where I have no choice - I feel and look awful and this cannot continue. I need to make a firm commitment to losing weight and eating healthy and dare I say the "E" word - some exercise. I used to walk very day - but cannot do that here on my block anymore - between the neighbors from hell and their dogs it is impossible - or is that just my excuse? This card is about tradition and an established way of doing things - I know if I cut calories, watch my portions, drink my water and exercise I will lose weight - I have done it before - I just need to "do it". I know I can do this and I will - I am starting today but will ask the help of a higher power - can't hurt!

My New Kitty - Sunny

2007-09-29T18:32:00.001-04:00

This is a picture of my new kitten Sunny - he is a four month old Norwegian Forest cat and I just adore him. He is such a good kitten and he purrs so loud. The second photo is Sunny again with my 4 1/2 year old black and white Norwegian Forest kitty - Domino.

What does this have to do with Tarot - well nothing but maybe I will pull a few cards for my little Sunny.

COD - Nine of Bats

2007-09-29T10:04:00.000-04:00

My card for today Nine of Bats (Swords) - reminds me of last night - trouble sleeping, anxiety and lots of noise from awful neighbors next door - bad night. Well Richie has gone up to PA with a friend on their motorcycles and I am worried about this trip - bad feeling. I will not rest easy until I hear he is there and OK and then will worry until he returns tomorrow. The meaning for this card in the LWB for this deck is "Allow yourself to look forward to the future with optimism" - well that is a bit more positive. I know since this is a sword the anxiety is in my mind but it is still there. I am a natural born worrier - I come from a family of worry-warts - I need to try to get over this but it is not easy. I worry about the dumbest things - things that "might" happen - I guess I should leave the worry for what does happen and let the rest go. Optimism is the key word here.

As far as the Three of Ghosts from the other day - I was accepted into the exhibit but I guess I did not win a prize - bummer!!!! I was really hoping.

Addition to this post:
Well I guess this card had nothing to do with Richie's trip. I had another awful night with the "neighbors from hell". All evening the younger ones were on a rampage and about 8:30 I caught the two youngest ones starting a fire on the side of the house. I am so upset by this - fire scares the hell out of me. I do not need that kind of wand energy in my life! I hardly slept all night again. I need to sell this house I guess - I just don't know if I am ready too do this but it is getting down to them or me.

COD - Three of Ghosts

2007-09-27T13:10:00.001-04:00

I entered a juried art exhibition yesterday and my question was "What are my chances of getting in"? Well this looks like a positive sign - a cause for celebration - maybe I will win a prize - I won awards in the last two shows I entered this month - this would make three (Three of Ghosts). It would be nice because it would be a cash prize but lets just see if I get in first!

COD - King of Ghosts

2007-09-24T12:33:00.000-04:00

My question was "What can I do to make today productive"? Again I pull the King of Ghosts (Cups) - well I guess the tarot is trying to tell me something - but I just do not know what. Should I be looking for a powerful, responsible man with good advice? Should I adopt this kings attributes? Do I need to be more sympathetic and caring? All of the above - none of the above, I just don't know. If something happens to shed some light on this card and myself I will post it. I just can't seem to figure out what this card has to do with me and being productive - and so far today I have not been very productive :(

COD - King of Ghosts

2007-09-23T10:07:00.000-04:00

My card for today - King of Ghosts (Cups). Well I am going to an Art Exhibit today - I won a prize and I want to be there for the awards ceremony. So do I need to take on the persona of this King? I may have a problem at this show and if so I will be gracious. A meaning for this card is a man of intelligence will offer sound advice - I guess I should be on the lookout for him. This king is wearing a mask - shall I hide myself and true feelings if confronted - I think so.

COD - Five of Bats

2007-09-19T10:59:00.000-04:00

My card today Five of Bats. I pulled this first thing this morning and my first thought was lots of hassles and little annoyances today. I went to the market, book store and got gas with no problems at all - except for the price of the gas! Well this card can mean defeat or treachery - a struggle - empty victory. Well so far so good but I need to be sure I do not fall victim to negativity today - a good day to be extra nice.

COD - Ace of Bats and Nine of Ghosts

2007-09-18T13:17:00.000-04:00

I love to use the Halloween Tarot this time of year - it is a fun deck but I really get good readings with it. I had no question in mind today just a general what do I need to know type of feeling. Two cards came out together.

Ace of Bats - in this deck Bats are Swords - meaning a new idea or insight. The Nine of Ghosts - in this deck Ghosts are Cups - meaning satisfaction and prosperity - the wish card. I want to read these two cards together. My first observation about this deck is the black cat - I have a stray black kitty "Ricky" who is sitting on my deck looking in my studio - very appropriate. I don't know about any new insights or ideas today but I am certainly open to some! I do need to get better organized and maybe if I came up with some ideas I would be sitting pretty like this Nine of Ghosts! I am always wishing I was rich but what is rich - is it lots of money or is it something more? I may have a shortage of cash but I always seem to find some when I need it. My life is indeed rich and I need to remember that and try to be happier and accepting of all that I have and be thankful.

These two cards are making me think of the mess I got myself into yesterday and how my husband stepped up and fixed things. I am always thinking I am so smart - well not yesterday and he proved what a great guy he is again!! I am thinking I need to make him feel how much he is appreciated - how is that for insight!!!!

COD - Five of Coins

2007-09-07T10:34:00.000-04:00

Well my question today and I guess every day is "How to better use my time?" I just find the day goes by and I accomplish next to nothing and I have so much I want to do. I was thinking about it this morning eating breakfast and I thought I need to work on one thing not jump all over the place or prioritise my tasks. I do have "to do" lists but just keep adding to them and not doing anything on the lists.

From the Transformational I pulled the Five of Coins (Pentacles). Well it is all about the money isn't it? Maybe I just need to get a job? Maybe I need to ask for help sometime? Am I over extending myself? I want to see something in this card! Well I see a man just sitting and looks like he is thinking - maybe I need to get off my butt and just do it. Do what needs to be done and don't moan about the rest.

Actually this card is how I do feel right now - financially challenged, so much to do, pretty shaky and lots of worry. What this has to do with managing my time I don't know but I guess if I figure that out I may feel better and things may run more smoothly.

COD - Nine of Coins (Pentacles)

2007-08-29T11:35:00.000-04:00

What does the tarot want me to know about today - about personal power and just in general? From the Transformational Tarot - the Nine of Coins. I do relate to this card - I am usually alone during the day - with my cats and my art. Arnell describes this card as having peace within - I am not too sure about that for me - but being a Coin (Pentacle) money is at the root of all my problems. I am wondering if I can make any money and be successful with my art - I think reading the de Kooning book has a lot to do with this as is getting older. I am dropping off a painting for a show today - I am hoping to get accepted and then win a prize - well getting in is the first step. I need to market myself - it is now or never for me. I cannot sit in my garden and dream of being successful I want to BE successful. I need to take the steps to get there - but then what is success??????

COD - Ace of Cups

2007-08-28T14:56:00.001-04:00

Well my question was "How do I protect my personal power?" I pulled the Ace of Cups - this is puzzling for me - I have been thinking about this card in relation to my question and am not coming up with much. Maybe I could be less emotional or maybe more? It is a beautiful image on this card. Maybe I need to embrace my limitations and go from there?

Well Aces are beginnings - one meaning is experience the joy of letting go - interesting - I am wound too tight. Maybe I need to lighten up and not analyze everything to death - go with the flow (Water) . I have to think about this for a bit.

COD - The Lovers

2007-08-27T10:15:00.000-04:00

I have not picked a COD in a very long time and I want to get back into doing this and writing down my thoughts. I have been thinking a lot about "personal power". I read in a book recently that some people give away their personal power and I am one of them. I think this would be a good thing to explore with the tarot. So my question today is how do I recognize my "personal power" - I guess I need to know what I am giving away don't I?

From the Transformational Tarot I pulled The Lovers. I see this card as being about choices. Choices which I am having difficulty making lately - I agonise over even the littlest thing. There is power in making a choice, power in following through on a choice made and power to even admit you made a wrong choice or a right choice for that matter.

I guess life would be easy if you never had to make a decision - but where is the power in that? So this card is telling me my personal power lies in my ability to decide for myself - to choose what I want to do and then "just do it". The giving away of this power is not making a decision, letting someone else make it or questioning a decision - I am guilty of all three but especially questioning every decision I make.

Funny when I first started thinking about "personal power" the thought of free will never entered my head. Free will is indeed our personal power - I still want to explore this further with the Tarot but this is a good start - a good clarification for me.

COD - Queen of Wands

2007-05-21T08:55:00.001-04:00

Decided to pull a card today - I have not been doing this lately and I really want to get back into the tarot more. My card Queen of Wands - this is one of my favorite cards from the Transformational Tarot - I love this Waterhouse image. So my day should be all about keeping the creative fires burning. So should I paint or make jewelry?? I am trying to do some new abstract work and I have entered a show at a museum - as usual I am floundering with my direction. However I am having a blast making jewelry and everything I try comes out great - I am learning a lot and loving it. No struggle there. One of Arnell's meanings for this Queen is creative but having more than one project going at a time - sounds like me!!!

COD - Prince of Wands

2007-05-11T12:40:00.000-04:00

I am going to PA for the weekend and will visit with my mother for Mother's Day. My question is "What do I need to be aware of for this weekend"? Courts are puzzling for me and this one with this question especially. Wild and impulsive - not me!!!! Not my mother either she is 88 years old. A wild weekend - I don't think so. The most I do there is read, walk and sit by the lake. Another meaning for this card is to remain upbeat and positive - good advice when seeing my mother and her sister.

COD - Strength

2007-05-05T11:01:00.000-04:00

I actually pulled this card some time ago - I wanted to reflect on my experiences at the Jewelry Expo. This is an appropriate card for a number of reasons. I am proud of myself that I had the courage to get in my car and drive to Delaware and just go - I was afraid and didn't want to go right up until the last minute. The drive wasn't really that bad and it was good for me to do this. I had the Strength not to go crazy and spend a lot of money on beads and stuff - I bought a little but to be honest the Expo was overwhelming - so much to see - tables and tables of beads. I bought some seed beads, fire line and something to use in making Cabs and that was it. I tried to be outgoing and open - I met some new people and had a good time. My classes were so-so. The spool knitted bracelet I probably could have learned to do on my own and I am not all that crazy with the finished bracelet. Connie Fox's class was just OK too - I was expecting a bit more but I will try to make a better Free Form Cuff now that I am home and know how she does it. I seem to be moving away from wire work now and that is OK. I am doing some bead crochet and liking the results.

So a meaning for the Strength card is "you have the inner strength to deal with whatever comes along" - I guess I do. I went to Delaware by myself, in the new car and got around on my own. It was a good weekend - I don't know if I would do another Bead Expo but you never know and at least I went to this one!

COD - Two of Swords & Seven of Coins (Pentacles)

2007-04-27T09:47:00.000-04:00

I am going away for two Jewelry classes and a Bead Expo tomorrow and my question was what to expect. Well I didn't expect these two cards? The Two of Swords represents a choice or fork in the road - maybe I will get lost - I sure hope not. For me this card represents blockage and fear - I am all to familiar with these two - isn't this what is taking away my power. I will not be afraid to go to this event and I will have fun. How is that for taking back my power? But seriously I feel I should go and learn and have a good time - do not block myself off from people and new experiences. As far as choices - be careful of what I buy, money is tight and I have a lot of jewelry making supplies - think (Sword) and choose wisely.

Seven of Coins - the time to take stock card. I have been moving away from wire work lately and the big class I am taking is on wire. If I could have cancelled this I would have but I was too late. Sooooo - take this class, learn all I can and then see where I want to go. I would eventually like to combine wire and seed beads (off loom weaving) so this class should not be a total waste.

I think the main thing here is to just go and have fun. Enjoy the experience because it probably won't come again. Try to make the most out of it, meet people and learn - when I come back then evaluate my jewelry direction. Sounds like a plan.

COD - Nine of Coins (Pentacles)

2007-04-26T09:10:00.000-04:00

Well today is a new day and I am still thinking about my personal power and how to keep it and use it wisely. I feel much better today - long story but I had a cat in my yard - cat had 3 kittens last year - I feed them now one is having kittens and I am afraid I am going to get a colony out there. I called animal control - he came and we caught the female - he wanted to come back today and get the two males but I just wasn't happy with that idea - I thought about it and made a decision - they can stay. They are not hurting anything and I give them a cup of food a day. I actually made a decision and I am happy with it. I also know it was the right decision. So to my card - Nine of Pentacles - Arnell describes this as Inner Peace and a love of nature. Well nothing could describe my situation more today. I really do enjoy feeding the 2 cats in the morning and just hanging with them for awhile - they eat and then go for the day. One other meaning Arnell has for this card is a wise use of natural resources - lately there is so much talk of being green and saving the planet. I think we can each do something - every little bit helps. I have become so much more aware of using resources and being wasteful - I really want to do my part. So this card for me today is a good pick - I hope the good feelings continue - they will if I choose to have them. I still want to explore personal power with the Tarot and will do so in my daily readings for awhile.

COD - Nine of Cups

2007-04-25T10:46:00.000-04:00

I was watching Oprah yesterday and she made a statement that we give away our power. This I find interesting and I want to explore it - I feel I do give away my power - to my fears, to my mother, to money, even to my cats. I want to look at this through the Tarot. My question today is "What do I need to do/know so I do not give away my power?" My card the Nine of Cups - I recently pulled this card and I sure am getting a lot of cups lately. My first impression is a Cup and emotions - being too emotional about anything is giving up your power. Emotions need to be balanced by the other elements. Now looking at the Nine of Cups - I sometimes find this card confusing - I feel it can be positive but sometimes very negative. Well lets go with the positive first - contentment, if one is content no one can take away your power - you are experiencing good fortune and happiness. The negative is smugness - and being too smug can get you knocked down from your high horse pretty fast.

So to retain your power try to find contentedness and be happy and the rest will take care of itself? Seems a little simplistic - I think I need to explore this giving up power further. I was hopping for a major Arcana card here - something earth shattering - maybe the key here is simple - just be in control.

COD - Nine of Cups

2007-04-19T13:45:00.000-04:00

I am sick of being afraid - I am afraid to drive my new car, afraid to take a trip, afraid to go to the Jewelry Class in Delaware, afraid of not having money, afraid of dying - just plan afraid all the time. So I pulled the Nine of Cups - first impression be thankful for a good life. This is the wish card and Arnell describes it as fulfillment of a strong desire, and a belief or faith in what is. Sooo - being afraid doesn't change what is going to happen - it just causes me to not live my life and be happy. Would I rather croak in the house being afraid or out having a good time? I cannot fulfill anything if I am hiding its time to get moving and stop being silly. As the wish card - wishing does not always make things so - sometimes you need to work to get what your heart desires. Also being a cup my fears are not real - more of emotional in nature.

COD - The Lovers

2007-04-18T10:38:00.000-04:00

Not really a direct question today just a feeling of how do I go forward and how do I find success? The Lovers - in this case this card is all about decisions and choices and making wise and correct ones. I cannot do it all or have it all for that matter so I should choose my battles, if you will, wisely. The progression of the last three day's cards has been interesting - Eight of Cups - just run away - to the Six of Cups - remembering the past - to The Lovers - you are at a crossroads.

Taken as a three card spread (past, present, future) could mean in the past you always ran away from problems rather than take a stand or try to work them out. Right now you need to remember what you did in the past and perhaps not repeat it but find a new way to succeed. In the future make wiser choices - you are at a crossroad point in your life and cannot ignore what is going on anymore (finances, health, happiness). I am not getting any younger I need to follow my heart but be wise in my choices. I need to start making plans for the future and make them happen - a game plan is a great thing but it needs to be put into practice. I need to get on a even ground here, the daily ups and down are getting me down - Balance & Change - what the Tarot is all about.

This is good advice but I also need to pick and choose what I can and cannot change - some battles are just not worth fighting! I also need to know what success is for me - not other's perception of success.

COD - Six of Cups

2007-04-17T14:36:00.000-04:00

Another Cup and I am going down in number - wonder where the Seven is? Nostalgia - hummm - right now I do not have many fond memories of the past. I woke up today with a new determination - my thoughts of running away are over - at least for now. I sat down and made a to do list and I am determined to lose weight. Arnell says - "past efforts can bring future rewards" - well I am making jewelry like crazy and I sure would like to sell some, I am putting a lot of effort into it. My designs are really unique and beautiful (Jewelry Blog & Web Site)- I will be doing a show in the end of May - I hope it is a success. She also says "carry what is good from the past into present situations". This is something to think about - once I figure out what was good from the past. I don't want to sound like a complainer here - my past is really not all that bad but it is my future I am worried about and I need to do some planning and some work to make it better (or I could run away).

COD - Eight of Cups

2007-04-16T13:46:00.002-04:00

I know we all have fantasies and mine is getting into my car and running away never to be seen or heard from again. Lately I have been thinking about this a lot. There is a song that starts out "When this old world starts getting you down" - so when it does what do you do - stand up and fight back or run away? Interesting question. This card is about exile, escaping and leaving the past behind. Since it is a cup this is such an emotional response. I guess it can also mean looking for a deeper meaning - a more positive emotional response. Anyway since I have obligations, a husband and cats that love me and not much $$$$, running away has to remain a fantasy. But then again I can run away for a short time by painting or making jewelry and today is a good day to do just that - awful weather. I find it odd that most people like to be the center of attention and be around people that are friends where I tend to be a loner and love to just be in the crowd and not have anyone know or recognize me. I guess this is a form of running away.

COD - Strength and The Sorceress

2007-04-13T14:09:00.000-04:00

Pulled these two cards this morning with no real question, I was just thinking about the weekend ahead. Well these are two very powerful cards - and feminine powerful. So now I am interested in seeing how the weekend will unfold - we are predicted to get a large storm starting late Saturday and into Sunday. I love this Strength card - I love the cartoonish dragon next to the butterfly - we can be strong but not overbearing - this card signifies inner strength. The Sorceress or High Priestess signifies hidden meaning, intuition and secrets. I have no plans for the weekend but I will keep these two cards in mind as the days progress. I may need to be strong and wise - I wonder about what? Since I have been feeling sort of ho-hum lately maybe something significant is brewing?

COD - Alchemy/Temperance

2007-04-12T07:56:00.000-04:00

I haven't written in this blog or even pulled a daily card in awhile. I have been having problems lately and I am in a funk. I have a very sick cat, my mother is giving me problems and a so-called friend is calling asking for one of her never ending favors. It is also raining like crazy here and cold - no spring in sight. My card for today from the Transformational Tarot is Alchemy/Temperance my question today was what attributes/strategies do I need to take into my life today. Well this is an interesting card - one of Arnell's meanings is the endless cycles of life - so true of the situation with the cat - he is so old, almost 19 and he is fading - this so speaks of the cycles of life. I know he does not have much time left - he knows too - but it does not make it any easier. This is the way life is and you become more aware of it as you get older.

As far as Temperance goes I need to find the balance in my life. Something I am missing in my health, eating habits, sleeping, general living. I know life has it's ups and downs but I have been in the downward area for far to long - I need to move forward and find the magic again. As far as this friend goes - I need to tell her straight out no more - if she gets mad at me I really do not care - she is only a friend when she wants something. I need to get a more positive attitude again, live my life to the fullest every day and be happy - sounds like a plan!!

COD - Six of Swords

2007-04-01T09:56:00.000-04:00

My question was rather general today - "Where do I go from here" - but I don't think this card is general in meaning for me. This card is moving away from struggle and turmoil - better times are ahead. I feel this is where I am heading right now. I have made a decision about a new car. This has been causing me stress - I do hate change and purchasing a car is a big investment for me and an even bigger decision. I thought about it a lot - looked a lot and finally made a decision - it is a win-win situation and a good decision all around and I am happy about it.

I put 2 abstract paintings out on e-bay and I said if one was sold I would be happy - well one is sold and the other has a watcher so I am pleased about that. I also painted a really nice full sheet abstract the other day and I like it a lot, it is the best thing I have painted in a LONG time. This is a step in the right direction. My article should be coming out in the press in a few weeks and I want to get an art portfolio going and approach some galleries.

I am working on learning some new beading techniques - some I like, some not so much - I will be doing a craft show at the end of May in the HO and I have enough stock that I do not need to worry about making anything for the show. I am taking 2 jewelry classes at the end of April at a bead show and I am excited about that.

This card - Six of Swords - I sometimes see as moving away from negativity and negative thinking (being a Sword). I have been very negative and down lately - could be partly due to the end of winter and gloomy weather and partly to my obsession with money - but I feel this lifting. Maybe because my husband and I have been talking and making some positive plans for the future.

I am looking forward to some calmer waters! One thing I like about the image on Arnell's card is the rainbow - signifying the end of the storm and just maybe finding that pot of gold.

COD - King of Swords

2007-03-01T20:51:00.000-05:00

I pulled this card this morning and I thought it was an interesting draw. A woman was coming to my studio this morning to interview me about my art and jewelry for the local paper. This King is a great communicator who conveys ideas rather than emotions. Well I thought, just how I need to be today. Being a Cancer and very much a Cups/Pentacles person this was going to be interesting. I was very nervous but I think everything went well. I don't know how King of Swordish I was but I tried to communicate my thoughts and ideas about my art as best I could. The problem is after it was all over I was thinking I wish I didn't say this or that or I forgot to mention something - oh well. So now I just need to wait until the piece runs in the paper and see how I really did. There was a photographer with her and I hate to have my picture taken and it shows - she took a ton of photos - I just hope one or two are flattering!

COD - The Sun

2007-02-19T09:29:00.000-05:00

I am thinking of taking a jewelry class tonight but have been undecided. I thought I would pull a card - The Sun. This card is a card of happiness and growth - sounds like this class may be just what I am hoping for - I think I will go. Another meaning of this card is confidence - something I am lacking in all of my artistic endeavors.