ORACLE SPEAK

Mr Smooth - Part 3 of 3

2012-01-26T01:00:00.002Z

And the last section for Mr Smooth ....

His attributes - Ace of Cauldrons (Cups)

Now this was the card that I drew for my daily card on the day that he actually first emailed me! I was quite taken aback as this was not the card I was expecting if I'm brutally honest with myself. After the way the other cards have flowed, this really threw me. Time for a self-awareness check .... am I just looking at the negatives, not giving someone a proper chance ... because with the imagery on this card ... this card is saying that his attributes are he's someone new, that he has a potentially huge capacity for love .... an untapped reservoir, pure and flowing ... albeit locked away in a secret place ....... perhaps then, when viewed alongside the Page ... it's more that the potential is there ........ but for the right person. I don't think that's me!

Connection to me - 4 of Rods (Wands)

Well ..... this was definitely not what I was expecting. Again! Home, happy families ....... and combined with that Ace .... the potential could be really good ........ but .... isn't there always a but ...... here I'm going to say I remind him of home ........ and that's not necessarily a good thing. Very often we subconsciously try to replicate what we have grown up around ..... yep, it's those family dynamics! Obviously I don't know what's happened in this person's life so far, apart from he's moved around a lot in shorter term relationships (according to him) .... so this card could also mean that with me ..... well, I'm not messing around ... if you connect with me, you have to be genuine .... want a proper relationship ... with all that entails .... a potentially good sign with the 3 wands above ..... after all you do progress from a 3 to a 4 ..... but am I convinced yet? Not really ...

Overall suitability - King of Rods (Wands)

Oh well ...... fiery, passionate but controlled, and charming. This King has strength, and surety within him ........ and yeah, given I'm supposed to be a natural Queen of Wands (I'm trying to embrace those aspects rather than Ms Queen of Swords) .... you could view this as saying yes .... a natural match. Here comes the But again .... But .... I associate this particular King not only with an ex who kept trying to return every time his other "ex" dumped him ..... and there's no way I want a repeat of that relationship ........ but also with the path of individuation as this card became my Stalker for a long time until I actually realised what he was talking about. Therefore, this King is married (see the ring on finger in the card) ..... and not available. My words on drawing this card "Look elsewhere".

Base card - Karma (Judgement)

As so you shall reap what you sow ..... it's a well-known saying but the cliches are usually around because there is a semblance of truth in them. When we meet people, we invariably learn something from them ....... be that what we want to be like, what we don't want ....... how we are perceived ..... what we want or yearn for from others. Karma at the bottom of the deck is telling me there is such a lesson here for me too ...... and if I judge others by certain standards ...... I need to be prepared to be judged the same in return ...... even if that leaves me "found wanting"!

If you play with fire you may very well get burnt. Tread carefully.

Quint of the spread: The World

No foundation and practicality here .... she is isolated, alone and vulnerable in her own little world. All elements are surrounding her but she is unable to reach them .... indeed I would also see this as needing to rise above the normal concerns that she has ....... the phrase that floated in here (and I hope to God this doesn't sound arrogant because it's not meant that way) was "she's in a different league" because after all, she's not on the same planet in this imagery!

Overall thoughts/Update

Well, there were several days of emails .... and in fact this turned out as I originally thought it would ..... I think he is a player! Basically he didn't live where he purported to live .... and would only be visiting that particular town, the one I would be in, on two specific days .... so from what I can gather he was lining up his favourites to meet with ... and no doubt see what he could get out of it. It wouldn't have surprised me to learn that he had given "slots" to each person .... needless to say I blocked him .... in fact only one of two people that I have blocked so far ... the other because I accidentally came across someone from the same firm as me ..... and of course you have to check the profile to make sure it is them ... and then you don't want them thinking that you've been "checking them out" .... eek! I think I had a lucky escape here!

Further update

He is either no longer on the site, or hidden. So, overall maybe not a "player" .... but "playing the game" (someone said that to me at work this week .... apparently most people multiple email/date rather than one at a time) while waiting to see if one particular person was "the one". If so, then hopefully it will work out for them :)

Mr Smooth - Part 2 of 3

2012-01-25T01:00:00.003Z

Continuing on with Mr Smooth ....

Genuineness - 3 of Rods (Wands)

Interesting card for this position .... it's not like it's a definite negative or positive (after all, all cards have both aspects) ...... the 3 wands is normally seen as a "waiting game" .... and I do see that as answering part of the question ....... however I am also going to add in here that while yes, he may be "waiting for the One" ...... while he's on this site, he also likes playing the "game", connecting to others ....... and basically if he thinks his efforts will bear fruit ...... then he'll take what he can get in the meantime.

His banter - The Close (Death)

Deadly!!! Hahaha, that says it all really ..... combine that with the Knight of Cups and I bet he's very successful in his job! So ..... pretty lethal with words .... I would say expect a lot of wit, but also very sharp too .... that blade looks very dangerous. And not forgetting the child .... so likely fun and/or childlike .... naivete too can come across as very charming if you think someone is being genuine. Let's not forget too the intensity of Scorpio which rules the Death card ... although it's often said that the waters of Death can be pretty stagnant .... basically watch your back ... there could be more consequences to this banter than you expect ..... especially if you land in dirty water!

His flaws - Page of Cauldrons (Cups)

Now .... given that we have both the Queen and the Knight above ...... I am wondering if this is the connection with a child. However, I could never view a child as a "flaw" ..... yet that family connection seems strong ...... another possible warning that all is not as is seems, and actually, he really isn't single! There is also the emotional immaturity aspect here ...... he could be very childlike ...... not ready or able to give commitment (regardless of what he says about wanting a genuine long-term relationship) ...... or it could even be that he doesn't even really know what he wants emotionally. Basically, as each card is laid down .... what I'm seeing here is someone who isn't really suitable for me.

Mr Smooth - Part 1 of 3

2012-01-24T01:00:00.003Z

Candidate - Mr Smooth

Ah yes, isn't there always one .... smooth as silk, probably able to charm the birds from the trees, get what he wants and make it look like no effort was involved whatsoever .... thinks he has the gift of the gab (most likely does) and probably doesn't like to take no for an answer. I should note here that he emailed me, after flagging up my profile .....

His look - Knight of Swords

Well now ...... from the card, you could take it that he's young looking since he's a Knight ... that he is blonde, has rather strong features to look at, maybe even some stubble given that the chainmail is up over his chin ...... with possibly a straight nose. I'd also add in here that his profile would be rather serious-looking and he could seem to be rather "sharp". One other thing I've often noted with this particular card is that the helmet looks like a bloody lemon ..... now lemons may be nice in cake ..... so sweet talking is a possibility here .... but I also see that aspect on this card as being rather bitter ....... if so, that's not going to be quite so easy to find out!

His job - Knight of Cups

Ahhhh and onto the court card that can denote flattery ..... charm ... someone who will promise you the earth, and often believe it while they're "talking the talk" ....... so I'd say perfect for someone in a media/advertising role and who needs to have a lot of smooth patter to reel the clients in. Given the emotional element with this card .... I also wondered if perhaps there was something about helping others .... a social cause if you will ........ and apparently this is the case. Just because someone is "smooth" doesn't mean they don't have a heart ....... after all, we all have them ...... hearts that is ...... whether or not their promises ever come to anything is another matter!

His family - Queen of Cups

Ahhhh, well here's where I started to wonder about Mr Smooth's sincerity ..... or, what's the word ... it's not appropriateness ........ hmm I guess eligibility will have to suffice ..... a Queen ...... when talking about a mature bloke and his family ... it's most likely going to be talking about either his mother or wife/partner! My first thought was actually in reality he's likely to be a bit of a "mummy's boy" .... not that he runs round after her, but was likely spoilt rotten as a kid and doted on, to the detriment of how he views women ......... and what I actually typed on drawing this card ..... was that he is still tied to his "ex" who is the mother of his child ..... either that or he's actually still in a relationship with her and lying about being single.

Dating ..... cards and candidates!

2012-01-23T21:38:00.001Z

So ... after a long time of being nagged to do it, of more and more people doing it ... and of actually seeing that yes, it does work for some people ... I've finally succumbed to the world of ... *gulp* internet dating!

Now I have to be honest here and state that I have .... or should that read "had" .... no belief in it for myself. Given that quite a few years ago some friends kind of coerced me into doing the internet thing and it confirmed everything I thought at the time, I swore off it for a loooooong time! Along with the excuses ... I'm happy on my own (I actually am), it's for Losers (capital L intended there .... and yeah I know .... it's not, but I wasn't quite so self-aware of my own self-sabotage at that time) .... it doesn't work (this is now patently not true given a work friend is on her fourth ... or maybe fifth, relationship .. and another friend is getting married soon etc. etc. etc.!), plus of course there's the laziness, the lack of time .... the lack of commitment ....... and basically .... yeah, hiding away in the cat cave of safety (as one friend coined it).

Now it's very cosy in that cave ... and doesn't stop you looking of course ........ but after a year of meeting what I shall deem "The Inappropriates" ...... even I had to say enough is enough. Add in to that some not so subtle signs from the Universe, and the decision to go ahead was made before I went to the yoga retreat in Barbados ... with the intention I'd join as soon as I got home. I didn't. I prevaricated yet again. So, more swift kicks from the Universe ...... and friends (I hate being called a coward ...) ....... so I duly signed up (after checking several out first ...... the website that "won" .... swayed me over by a couple of specific profiles that I saw ..... some people say fussy (or even finicky) ... I say I have high standards *grin*.

Anyway ....... it's a journey. One I may ..... or may not ....... end up blogging about over at Mouse's House ........ but in the meantime, I figured why not see how accurate the cards are ..... and what they have to say about any "prospective candidates" ......

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-01T01:00:00.001Z

Learning to detach

2011-12-29T01:00:00.003Z

Very often we can come across situations which you know will resurrect old feelings and highlight where you still need to do some healing. Just after my birthday a weekly draw I did told me something was going to happen along these lines.

King of Cups ~ 3 Swords ~ 8 Swords

Base card ~ 10 Wands

When I drew these I automatically thought that the King represented a bloke I know, but that wasn't the case, and a very good reminder not to get hung up on the possibility that a court card always has to represent a person! In this case it shows (I hope, at any rate) some mature emotional detachment, being able to look at a situation and not over-react or take absolutely everything to heart, which is what I have done on many an occasion over the years! The overall situation I found out about did bring up past issues, and as denoted by the 3 swords, they were pretty painful! There was an instinctive reaction to go into over-analysis and retreat to the inner world and feel sorry for myself, but I do think that King helped to negate the effects.

The base card also showed me the underlying reasons for how I thought what I did, and how I felt! Very often we put ourselves under undue pressure and do the same to others, especially when it comes to hopes and dreams for what we think people can achieve, become, or even should want to do. This then creates expectations of ourselves (and others) which eventually can lead to disappointment, especially when what we want (or hope) are either unrealistic or not what someone else wants for themselves. And at the end of the day, their life is entirely theirs to do with as they please!

Deceit revealed!

2011-12-28T01:00:00.016Z

I was recently lucky enough to get away on a yoga retreat abroad and I have to say that it was brilliant. It was also very hot and it's taken some adjusting being back in the UK with rain, wind and low temperatures. Time to get the hot water bottle out methinks. Anyway, before I went away I drew some cards ........ actually I drew 3 lots from 3 different decks! And promptly forgot all about what they were - nothing new there then! I was also privileged to read for a few of my yoga buddies whilst away and of course encouraged them to try and read a card intuitively *grin*. One of them gave me a warning! And when I came home I saw how right they were, and how I should have taken more note of my previously drawn cards!! Mind, I guess if I'd done that, I may have spent my time away worrying about what was going on at home, so it's probably a good job I didn't.

The spreads were as follows:

Llewellyn Tarot

Seven of Swords ~~ Page of Cups ~~ Four of Wands

Base card ~ Chariot

Mystical Lenormand

Stars ~~ Book ~~ Fox ~~ Ship ~~ House

Base card ~ Dog

Tarot Universal Dali

High Priestess ~~ 7 Swords ~~ 8 Pentacles

Base card - Ace of Swords

While looking at comparing the 3 spreads afterwards, I found some fantastic similarities!

Two spreads had the 7 swords. Whilst often called the "thief" card it indicates sneakiness, lying and trying to get away with things that aren't very good. Pretty much similar to the Fox card in the Lenormand tradition wouldn't you say!

The High Priestess keeps secrets, just like the Lenormand book card.

The 4 wands is traditionally seen as a card of "home" and can very often denote our actual physical residence/house ....... just like the Lenormand house card!

Mid-week I was out on a catamaran and noticed some very large birds! Definitely not your average seagull, and the captain informed me that they were Frigate birds! It was the very next day that my friend gave me the warning! On getting home I googled frigate birds and found this description courtesy of http://www.spiritwalkministry.com/spirit_guides/bird_animal_spirits:

Frigatebird -- A seafarer that cant swim, puffing up the chest to appear important, will defend its own turf but no other, a pirate and a thief

Another connection there with the Fox and 7 swords I would think, affirmation (or should that be confirmation) that indeed, deceit had been in hand!

So what had happened? Someone had badly scraped my car as they drove into the parking space in front of my car! I have been having some ongoing issues with a neighbour concerning their anti-social noise nuisance, and upon inspection that very night of getting home, I found a car with matching marks! Dutifully I left a note on there and what do you think the odds are of that very person being related to said neighbour!!! Yep, and of course they denied all knowledge. Thankfully my insurance company have been brilliant at sorting out the repairs and even the guy at the repair place said that whoever caused the damage will be more than aware they've caused it because it's so deep (and you can include indentations in the plastic bit on the front bumper!).

Anyway .......... with hindsight, how does each set of cards read?

Llewellyn - A thief in the night (7 swords) caused damage near the home front (4 wands and tents in 7 swords) when ferrying kids around (kid in 7 swords). I of course was totally oblivious as I was stood on a cliff admiring the watery scenery (and I was - Page of Cups imagery spot on!). The damage related to my car (Chariot).

Mystical Lenormand - At night (Stars) secret (Book) and sneaky damage (Fox) was caused whilst I was away (Ship) from home (House). I know who did it (Dog).

Dali - Secretive (High Priestess) deceit (7 swords) needing quite a bit of work (8 pentacles) brings new knowledge (Ace of Swords) - and it did as I didn't know the neighbour's surname until this point!

I think I might just have to try some more multi-spreads in future and see what comes up!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T01:00:00.002Z

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas :)

Samhain Blessings

2011-10-31T23:07:00.000Z

Wishing you all a wonderful Halloween and Samhain :)

Good from bad!

2011-10-26T10:00:00.001+01:00

Clearing out some old drafts and I came across this weekly draw (from 30 May):

6 pentacles ~ 10 swords ~ 3 cups

Well I figured I would be given something, which was due to an ending, and which I would celebrate! Given that those 10 swords in the middle look rather painful, I didn't expect it was all going to be a bed of roses.

As it turns out, my next college course was cancelled. After speaking to the tutor, he confirmed he would be returning my deposit to me, although this did take a couple of weeks!

Fever

2011-10-25T10:00:00.001+01:00

And this was the next day's card! On drawing it, I had hoped it meant I would have several options as to what to do with the day - after all, the character at the top of the card is being offered two different cups, and has all the women queuing up! I've often found this card to be indicative of illusions, that when we don't know what to do, we will be given lots of choices and opportunities or at the very least, the hope of such choices, but here he's got a choices of every colour - blonde, brunette and redhead are there in the frame ......... and some more with just their hands showing at the bottom of the card.

On pondering this over, I wondered if perhaps those three choices could have been sleep, food and drink. Because that's what I've ended up doing all day, instead of being able to leave the house and go to work.

And then I had that little thought/song float into my head ......... "Fever" ....... you know when you're all over the place, you feel as if you're just floating and not really "with it"? Well that was definitely part of how I felt. Added to which I felt exceptionally emotional, thirsty the whole day and evening ......... and I was alternating between dosing up on 3 different types of stuff to get me through. Yep, every two hours some paracetamol, then two hours later some ibruprofen ........ and not forgetting that I had just gone and got some Vicks First Defence (I didn't know until after I'd bought it, that it was made by P&G unfortunately).

I also now have the beginning of that song still playing in my head!

Pity party for one

2011-10-23T10:00:00.001+01:00

Where on earth does time go? It barely seems like yesterday that I was trying to get here and with lots of good intentions to post on a regular basis! I guess when the time is right and life quietens down a bit, it will eventually happen, but until then, posts will continue to be sporadic!

Winter is looming and that means silly season ......... flu season ........ you know when it starts, because you get on the transport to work and hear one person sneeze ...... and then another ....... and then someone starts coughing and before you know it, everyone at work seems to be coming down with something or other. Well this is what started happening a few weeks ago to me!

I thought I'd managed to avoid catching the many bugs that suddenly seemed to surround me, though I don't think that ducking when I heard the person behind me on the train sneeze actually worked. Because last week I started to feel rough. But I figured I'd push through it, sweat it out and even went to the gym for the first two days so as to make sure that happened.

But if it did anything it just brought it out quicker. I ended up leaving work slightly early on the third day with the intention that a hot bath, lots of fluids and an early night would mean I'd be right as rain the next day. Then I drew this card!

Oh yeah, what a joy to look forward to. Normally I'd look at this card, think I just need to pull myself together a bit, lift my head up and step through those swords. However, when you feel like you have no balance left, when you suddenly get those hot and cold sweats and feel like life is just totally beating down on you, well it's damn hard to lift your head, let alone muster any energy to walk anywhere!

And so it was. No walking anywhere. Instead, I pulled my dressing gown closer, put the heating on and got back under the duvet to try and warm up. A pity party for one that, at the time, seemed never ending!

Happy Re-Birth Day

2011-08-19T22:18:00.000+01:00

Today has been my birthday, another year passed by and another digit to add to the accumulated totals of years, months and days spent in this incarnation. I've never really thought in depth about what card would be perfect to say "It's your birthday" or should that be "birth day"? I mean, I would have gone for the 3 cups (celebration) or 4 wands (happy home) or even my soul card ...... but I figured, they don't actually talk about a birthing do they.

So today's daily card was perfect ....... not only is this Judgement card actually named "Karma" (you reap what you sow) ...... but the picture is perfect ....... there is the death ....... the spiritual analysis ..... and then the re-birth ..... be that to a new incarnation, a new year or a new you!

As most mothers will tell you ........ most births will include some pain ........ and birthdays can be the same. Whilst I am very blessed by those that have helped me celebrate today ...... I have had to sacrifice some of my time to stay at home, alone, for a delivery (the timing had to be slotted in and couldn't be done on another day) ........ I'm aiming for the "what will be, will be" attitude, but unfortunately, it's now over an hour late, gone 10pm at night and I've missed the evening with my friends. A form of pain indeed ..... but then you do reap what you sow ....... and I guess I should have made the order a few days earlier!

Bark worse than bite!

2011-08-06T10:58:00.000+01:00

This was my daily card for last Monday and my god did it fit perfectly! It did not go unnoticed that being the first of the month, this was also an Ace ........ perfect fit number 1 I thought :)

The second ....... yep, it was going to be a scorcher of a day ...... I mean, just look at all that fiery heat in the card! Usually if I draw this card and it's at the end of August, beginning of September in relation to the weather, I'd be thinking a red hot Indian summer's day here in the UK.

But the one that really got me, was the feeling the card gave me. Hot, itchy, raspy .... see that rod ........ well what's covering it is rough bark .... and the wheat looks to have been completely dried out, no moisture, no smoothness, just raw, rough and inflamed!

And that was me! Pushing through the day, feeling hot and bothered but the worse bit was my throat ..... inflamed, sore, raspy and it felt as if I had razor blades in it, it was so painful. In fact I was convinced I was coming down with tonsilitus (actually it's been a viral infection which is still painful) because it was so red and swollen.

Definitely one where the bark is worse than the bite :D

Let them eat cake!

2011-06-22T23:33:00.000+01:00

Sometimes, a little of what you fancy does do you the world of good!

Last night (very late) I drew the Empress for my daily card. I figured that it meant I needed to look after myself ....... in some kind of nurturing way. I figured that would be sleep. As in get a good night's worth. As in ........ get to bed early because I'd be tired.

Well I got the tired bit right. It's been absolutely manic.

I should have realised tarot is being much more simplistic at the moment. Nurture yourself indeed.

As I said, manic day. So I made sure I went out of the office at lunchtime ........ and headed to Costa Coffee with a friend. Unfortunately they don't serve the lemon cake in there (apparently not enough demand for it - disgraceful!) so I made up for that with 2 smaller ones.

If I carry on like this, I'll also end up with a somewhat larger belly too!

Create Vision

2011-06-18T00:10:00.002+01:00

One of the sites that I get quite a few emails from is Thought for Today. This one is from quite a long time ago, I think several years actually .... but I came across it while having a clear-out of my in-box. As soon as I read it, I saw this wonderful card in my mind's eye ........ I think they go perfectly together :)

Create Vision

Never believe anyone who says we cannot change. Vision is one of the secrets of personal transformation. We are all artists, our mind is the arena of creation and vision is what we are constantly creating. What is your vision of yourself today - patient, relaxed, positive or tense, tight and negative? What do you prefer? So be creative - what does patience look like, feel like, what are you doing that is different when you are patient and you are expressing your power to ...wait? Always start with vision not action. See it and you will be it. Be it and you will do it. This is how we create our own life.

From: Thought for the Day

A Hellish Day

2011-06-13T22:50:00.000+01:00

You know I'd always thought of the Devil card as being that of temptation (literally with this deck), of facing your hidden shadows ........ and even of watching out for hidden betrayals ....... I have never had it come up before to literally tell me "You're going to have a hell of a day!" ..... especially not with this imagery. But that's precisely the kind of day I've had. From getting a late train to work, having my log on at a work pc fail badly, and then needing a hard drive swapped out ...... wasting over an hour of time that was needed for urgent work. And then of course, you play catch up all day ...... run off your feet. Ah but come the end of the working day it's got to get better right? You relax on the train home, envisage some chill out time ............ to walking indoors and hear the hellish neighbours with their music (not loud enough to report alas) ....... to then hearing them slag you off, take the mickey out of you ...... and all because they know you can hear them because you let the chickens out so they take the opportunity to try and intimidate you!

So can you ever get a positive out of such a day? Well ..... at least I heard her say she wouldn't hurt the chickens (they'd threatened so some months ago) .... and I also learnt that their estate agency have assured them they won't be kicking them out. What they don't know yet is that the police were called at the weekend ...... and I'm not letting this drop. Let's hope they're not displaying any fox-like cunning ....... and that it's me and my persistence they need to be wary of!

Congratulations Dora

2011-06-09T22:18:00.004+01:00

I have finally been venturing back into blogdom ...... although I'm afraid that has been over at Mouse's House. I've also had a major break from my cards ...... even I shudder at the word "major". However, when I say that, I don't mean I've discarded them or not been near any of my decks ........ in fact I have about 6 of them, with scrawled notes intended for blogging on the floor near my pc. I have even been drawing my monthly CCs ...... and most weeks some daily cards.

Last night was one such night ........ and I knew today would be a good day ........... because I drew 10 pentacles from my beloved Old Path.

What I didn't expect was to take it so literally. One of my bestest friends has just got engaged! Now how perfect is that card for that special event!

Congratulations Dora :)

Happy Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T01:05:00.002+01:00

On Strength

2011-04-22T00:49:00.005+01:00

I know, it's been a while. A very long while. Time, energy and motivation have been in very short supply over the past year where blogging has been concerned, and I'm not sure how often I'm going to be venturing back ....... however, I hope it is a bit more frequent from hereon in!

Trawling through those old readings, I came across a quote I'd saved because I felt it was perfect for one of the major arcana cards. I wonder who else will agree :)

On Strength
Kent Nerburn

We each have a different kind of strength. Some of us are able to persevere against hopeless odds. Some are able to see light in a world of darkness. Some are able to give selflessly with no thought of return, while others are able to bring a sense of importance into the hearts of those around them.

But no matter how we exhibit strength, its truest measure is the calm and certain conviction with which it causes us to act. It is the ability to discern the path with heart, and follow it even when at the moment we might wish to be doing something else.

True strength is not about force, but about conviction. It lives at the center of belief where fear and uncertainty cannot gain a foothold. Its opposite is not cowardice and fear, but confusion, lack of clarity, and lack of sound intention.

True strength does not require an adversary and does not see itself as noble or heroic. It simply does what it must without praise or need of recognition.

A person who can quietly stay at home and care for an ailing parent is as strong as a person who can climb a mountain. A person who can stand up for a principle is as strong as a person who can fend off an army. They simply have quieter, less dramatic, kinds of strength.

True strength does not magnify others' weaknesses. It makes others stronger. If someone's strength makes others feel weaker, it is merely domination, and that is no strength at all.

Take care to find your own true strength. Nurture it. Develop it. Share it with those around you. Let it become a light for those who are living in darkness.

Remember, strength based in force is a strength people fear. Strength based in love is a strength people crave.

Courtesy of Living Life Fully

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T01:01:00.001Z

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-25T01:00:00.002Z

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL
May your Christmas be filled with love, laughter
and much joy

Love from Cat and Mouse

Squawking out loud - Card 5

2010-10-23T01:00:00.002+01:00

And onto the last card of the spread.

What long-term benefit will this give you? - Five of Cups

Oh ............. what else can I say? Not exactly the most positive looking card to read as a long-term benefit is it.

This card depicts the story of Urashima and is not one I'd heard of. It's very sad tale and I have to say, I find it hard to see benefits from death, loss, grief and the such-like, even more so since loss is one area of life that I find hard to deal with. Pretty sure I'm not the only one! Of course these things are are major changes ........ and they happen to us all. And as a result, nothing is ever the same again. When that happens, it often doesn't seem as if there is a benefit, yet the new "us" or "life" that we then start to live doesn't necessarily have to be "bad" because we've "lost" something ....... although this is, of course, very dependent on an individual's experiences and perceptions! Not least of all, what the "loss" actually involves.

So since I'm looking at this card in terms of my vocalisation, I would say that now I've started speaking up ........ the old part of me who wouldn't say boo to a goose, is gone. Well, she may linger a bit in certain situations, but I'd hazard a guess here that she's pretty much stronger overall, more confident and the volume is definitely louder in terms of making sure other's hear her opinions too!

Overall ........ it's time to let the past go ........ release the ashes of your old perceptions into the wind and let it carry them away. What was, is now no more. Death is here ........ acknowledge what has brought you here, the trials and tribulations endured ........ acknowledge the tests and how you dealt with them ....... then clear some space. Because when you're done with that ....... you'll never deal with a similar situation like you used to!

Squawking out loud - Card 4

2010-10-22T01:00:00.002+01:00

What step can you now take to improve vocalisation? - Six of Cups

Now I know this is a story about a nightingale .......... and what do they do? But of course ........ they sing . and very sweetly at that ....... with everyone loving the beauty of their song. Hmmm, I somehow don't think that's what people are thinking when I'm being very vocal as a driver! Fluent yes ........... sweet words ........... and beauty ........ don't think so! So, the first biggie ........ stop the swearing!

However, when I look at the imagery here, I see a man asleep and a ghostie paying him a visit .... so that gives me some more aspects. The first, yep you know you've heard it here before ......... as have I, many a time ........... gotta start listening to the subconscious ....... weeding out the riff raff of noise and clutter ......... to see through to the voice that truly matters ........ that of the inner soul. And one way is the dreaded M ...... meditate! I still don't know why I have such a block in doing this ....... it's quite ridiculous ....... I know I should do it, I know I can do it (well, visualise at any rate) ......... and I know that ultimately it will bring some form of benefit. But still I don't ......... still I procrastinate ....... and still I umm and aahh about it.

Another is to listen to the messages of dreamtime ........... well I'm still dreaming, some days more vivid than others ......... actually some very vivid ones at the moment, which I'm putting down to the looming full moon as well as the end of October ..... after all, the veil is thinning at this time of year!

And then, since we do have ghostie floating over him as he sleeps ............ a possible need to wake and face some fears. The only problem here, is that I'm not exactly sure what fears he could represent! And especially given that banner, which looks to have a lovely green dragon on it ........ it doesn't exactly instill fear at the image, now does it!

Overall ........ sweeten your mouth *ahem* ......... meditate *splutter* ........ and get more sleep ....... that'll improve your disposition no end!

Squawking out loud - Card 3

2010-10-16T00:24:00.002+01:00

What experience has contributed to this positively? - Five of Wands

Oh ... my .... god. I'm instantly thinking of the scary Ice Queen from Narnia here! Come to grab little Peter and make him do her bidding. So one thought is that the past is what makes us or breaks us .......... and mine has helped to make me strong, able to withstand many things, even coldness or the clutching grasp of frozen emotions. And yet .......... what if I am the Queen? EEK!!!!

I have to say, that here, this card really really threw me. Given that 5s are normally the chaotic number of the suit, bang in the middle on the road from Ace to 10, and wands being of fire and energy ........... I had to stop shying away from the comment I'd put above and acknowledge that yes, primal chaotic energy is what really shapes us. And given that we're human being having a so-called spiritual experience in our lifetimes, well ........... the one place you're gonna get that in such a potent mix is childhood. Our upbringing. Everything that we see, hear, feel and absorb from conception onwards. And this card, with this image, brought some very specific memories back!

However, it's not just negatives that we need to look at here, it's positives too. All the so-called "good" and "bad" ....... we learn from it, we adapt to it ........ we adjust our perceptions accordingly and subconsciously, and as I read earlier today .... probably not the day I'm posting this, but the day I'm typing it ........... we grow through challenge, through pain, through responsibility and truth (sic .... M. Scott Peck - The Road Less Travelled). And of course, even though we grow up, move on ........... subconsciously we still react in many ways as if we are stuck in a time loop that takes us back to childhood. Ice Queen calling us indeed.

Overall ........ adversity makes us strong but ultimately it is our choice to follow a path and to take responsibility doing so. Even following an Ice Queen is making such a choice. Managing to escape however will always leave an icy scar, just remember to look on it as a token of growth and of victory ..... for success is never easily won, least of all by one one so young!

Squawking out loud - Card 2

2010-10-15T00:22:00.002+01:00

What experience has contributed to this negatively? - Ten of Wands

Well damn ...... there I was thinking I couldn't be noticed, and wouldn't you just know it ........ but someone catches me watching from outside the safety of my mousehole!

So what am I watching? Why my childhood of course ........... aren't we all products of our upbringing? Though if row of wands is possibly illuminating the path from past to present, I think I've shrunk a bit in size! Hmmmm, it's also not so good that I'm still here, weaving someone else's yarn!

Work work work, do do do ............. and if you prick your fingers and bleed ......... stop whinging and get on with it. We all have our troubles to bear says the gremlin at the door. Poor young girl, trapped in her castle, slaving away ......... she might as well be cinderella in sweeping the kitchen for all the rest she gets. Of course, one possibility is that because she's slaving away by moonlight, she's not seeing straight ......... I reckon she could quite easily overpower that gremlin, he is a lot smaller than her. And then again ......... there is also another possibility here ........ karma ....... or rather past lives ........ and lessons to be learnt ........ spindles and weaving ........ we become what we do ........ and if we stay set in our ways, and do the same old stuff day in and day out ........ then we'll get what we've always got.

Overall ........ still spinning the same tune I see ........ well inside at any rate. No need to be a victim and think woe is me. Use the rope and tie up the gremlin!

Squawking out loud - Card 1

2010-10-13T00:18:00.002+01:00

Returning briefly to catalogue another draw I did with the affirmation spreads. I must say, it's been an absolute pleasure working with this deck, very vocal, very individual and very encouraging with its messages about personal growth. Vocalisation is one of those things that can be extremely difficult to do, especially if the possibility of speaking up may not necessarily bring rewards or if it's not something you're accustomed to! Speaking up has been one of this year's lessons for me I think ........ so I've been very heartened with this particular draw.

Affirmation Spread - 28 February 2010

Deck - Fairy Tale Tarot

How is your current vocalisation in difficult situations? - King of Swords

My initial reaction on seeing this card was one of "oh yes, I'm vocalising well and truly" ........ in fact the phrase that popped into my head was "crying out for the world to hear from the rooftops". And I also noted that this bird had taken his prize, something which he seems to be very proud of. Well, if you've ever been in a situation where it was difficult to gather your nerves and then stand up for yourself vocally, I'm sure you too would be rather proud of that fact.

However, I'm now going to slightly change my thoughts ........... hindsight is a wonderful thing isn't it. You see, at the time of drawing this card I had been vocal about something, in fact I'd been very vocal and once I let my thoughts out, there was no way to stuff them back in. It was a rather scary situation emotionally .......... I stood up to someone who I class as a bully ....... and thankfully I was heard. The only thing was, I then became a little too vocal ....... and very righteous ........ which really wasn't a very gracious thing to do. Which of course the other person didn't deserve ...... me trying to be gracious I mean ...... but at the same time, this was about me and not them, so the graciousness could have been of benefit to me. And of course, once we start squawking out loud, rather than talking graciously ........... a lot of the positive stuff that others may have seen in us could disappear. Not good. There then follows the thought that the true reason you're squawking about "it" is because you want others to notice, you want them to recognise your courage, bravery and to admire you ......... and in reality, that is silently saying "yep, you're still needy, you still have self esteem issues". Oh dear.

Overall ........ be careful when shouting from the rooftops that the right message is being heard, and you're not just shouting into the wind!

Affirmation for the Week

2010-07-12T01:00:00.002+01:00

Well hello there ....... it's been a while :) I shouldn't even be indoors typing this out as Summer seems to have hit the UK ...... but given I had no choice but to be indoors and in front of a pc at this moment in time ...... I figured I might as well put some of my time to good use :)

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 12th July 2010)

"I EMBRACE THE SUN"

Yes ....... FINALLY ........ we have a proper Summer in the UK. Days and days of sunshine, of warmth and no doubt many ice lollies, cool drinks and barbecues on the go .... yep I'm typing this at the weekend!

Oh how we have longed for the daylight ....... to be able to shed those thick bulky clothes, to stop carrying our umbrellas for fear of an unexpected downpour (actually the forecast isn't that great in the near future *oops*) ....... to be able to leave our windows open and let fresh air in ....... to have the kids play in the garden ...... to use the paddling pools, the slides, the trampolines ........ to wander around our parks and rivers ....... to get out in nature and sit on green grass ........ and of course let's not forget that it's strawberry season (although yours truly isn't reaping the full bumper harvest since the chickens have discovered they actually like fresh grown plump red strawberries).

Of course we all know that we should be careful in the sun and especially when it's so hot ....... dehydration, sunburn, blisters, heat rash, insect bites & stings ...... are all things that can blight us if we're not prepared (like Dora's DH, who forget to put suncream on his neck while playing golf last weekend ...... "gleaming" is the colour I would describe it that evening). And yes, the sun can be villified when things do go wrong. So let's look on the bright (LOL) side ..... the sun helps our bodies create Vitamin D .... and I found out this past week that we only need 20 minutes in the sun, without sunscreen (sunscreen will stop Vitamin D being made) ........ here are some benefits I found via Google:

Strengthens your immune system-critical to stay healthy and reduce likelihood of serious diseases such as cancer

Moderate sun tanning 100% safely

Up to 30,000 Lux - Most effective treatment against SAD in the UK

Energises by conditioning pineal glands

Aids sleep

Aids detoxification of heavy metals

Stimulates blood circulation

Sooths joint and muscle pains and aches

Relief from fibromyalgia and arthritis

Helps to lower blood pressure

Promotes healing of various skin conditions

Stimulates Vitamin D production

Deeply relaxing and warming

Excerpt taken from here

And of course let's not forget some more important things ....... it makes us SMILE, it LIFTS our hearts and emotions ....... helps us feel JOY, RELAXES us ....... what beautiful gifts indeed.

Yet over the past week, as the temperature has risen, all I have heard (around me) and seen (online) are groans, gasps and whinges about how it's too hot, too sticky, too humid ...... how people wish it were cooler, less bright and that their appetites have gone. Sometimes, I swear, we humans really don't grasp when we have it fantastically good!

As Tom from Living Life Fully said at the beginning of his daily email on the first day of this month:

"just for today, i’ll be grateful for the sun and all it does for us ..."

So let's appreciate what we have, get outside and enjoy everything we can about the Sun. After all, we'll all be shivering in our coats come Winter!

Affirmation questions for this week are as follows:

How have you been viewing the Sun?
What does the Sun symbolically mean to you?
What can the Sun help you appreciate?
What one thing can you do, right now, to enjoy the Sun?
What benefit can you carry forward from this?

Cleaning out the closets - Last Card

2010-06-27T00:52:00.002+01:00

What positive effect will such "spring cleaning" bring to you? - Four of Pentacles

And yet again the cards mirror the actions that we use when spring cleaning ........... when we clean external clutter we feel lighter internally! The first three were outdoor cards ........ the previous one had moved us indoors ....... and so too does this one! Only now we have got up out of that bed and moved into another room in the castle ......... by heeding the message it opened a doorway ....... and if we choose to go through that door ......... and yes, do note that I use the word "Choose" for we all have a choice as to whether we try to move forwards on our path, or turn around and beat a hasty retreat! ........... then we may just find what we are looking for.

Now sometimes the 4 of pentacles can be given a bad rep ........ it's often seen as the "miser" card ...... denoting that which we hold onto out of fear ........ or what we don't want to share because we are being greedy ...... however 4 is a number of stability, foundation and structure ...... and with the suit being of pentacles, it's element is earth ........ therefore very real and practical. Also it must be noted that it was drawn for the position which states a "positive effect" that will be brought to me ........ so fear and greed, which are negative aspects, do not apply. Instead I look to the wonderful imagery ....... and see a Dog. This represents friendship, love and loyalty to me .......... therefore the effect will be a "gift". The chest that the Dog is sitting on has a key in the lock, so it will be easily apparent and available .......... yipeee ...... and when viewed from a distance, that swirling script looks to spell "Love" to me. The incense appears to be burning, so the air has been cleared of any negative energy, and there's even a cloth on the floor to kneel on when looking inside the chest. Can't get much kinder than that can you! The only thing that perturbs me is our man has his hand outstretched towards the dog ......... when instead he shouldn't expect this to be handed to him on a plate! There may be a gift, but they're not saying what it is, and I may have to be a bit more proactive to actually get it! Good to know that there's a "reward" for all that cleaning though *grin*.

This card represents a story I hadn't heard before ....... and when reading it, I have to say that while everything turned out ok for the solder on the card, I really think Karma should have bitten him quite hard instead. Cutting off an old lady's head is not nice behaviour when they have been helping you! That being said, I especially loved this bit "The doorway provides an opening into a world of opportunity" given what I'd written above. Soldier boy basically followed the signs and as a result, got to reap rewards ........ let's hope the same bodes well for me!

Overall ..... spring cleaning will be bringing a surprise gift, sent with love and friendship. Wonderful ...... now, where's the chest that needs opening?

BINGO!!! Literally, on typing those last few words ......... I get it! The gift will be an open heart (chakra). Now if that's not a gift of love from the Universe, then I don't know what is! WOW.

Cleaning out the closets - Fourth Card

2010-06-24T01:00:00.003+01:00

What can you do to bring some sparkle/light back in - Six of Cups

Now we move from all those lovely daylight cards to one of darkness and of the realm of sleep. And as I look at this card I see the creature trying to wake the old man .... "Wake up wake up, don't you know it's a brand new day dawning" he shouts .... waving his swords in front of him ... I mean c'mon, he's even holding a banner ..... perhaps he's a herald .... yep, a dream messenger trying to get the man to move away from darkness, from his fears and egoic self-sabotage! Why on earth is he huddled away in bed .... is he hiding? Very likely, because look at those faces on the canopy surrounding his bed. Whispering, muttering, saying things to him as he sleeps ...... letting their words seep into his unconscious ..... feeding the fears, spreading the darkness ..... so that eventually he ends up believing whatever hype is being pedalled to him.

The cups are overturned, this is true. However, he doesn't really need them .......... because this is a card of remembrance, of nostalgia even ...... if he can only find a spark, a sign, bird song even ... then he can dredge his memory and find something good, something positive to believe in ..... he can stop hiding away, start believing and get motivated!

On reading this story, it turns out that that figure hovering over the man in the bed is Death himself! And while I'm sure most would try and hide from him ...... Death, as most tarot readers know, doesn't always mean physical death ........ it can however be a calling to change ....... to transform ....... so knowing this, I would add that if he is indeed a messenger, he's a very forceful one ....... time for change ...... and it looks like a big one at that! I would think then, that the past needs to be swept away in its entirety. And only then will this Emperor be fully released from his self-imposed pressures ...... able to embrace all the new stuff that's going to be appearing.

Overall ...... stop wallowing and hiding your light under the bushel ...... see every day as new and a fresh start!

Cleaning out the closets - Third card

2010-06-22T01:00:00.001+01:00

What has caused such grime/darkness - Innocence

And here we come to what is probably one of my most favourite cards in the whole deck! This is the Fool card in most decks although I don't think being a fool is what has caused the grime/darkness LOL. I also don't think it's because I've been stalked by a big bad wolf who just wants to eat me up. Though I guess you could equate the wolf to fears that want to swallow us whole ........ or rather the ego who welcomes our fears .......... after all isn't that how the ego survives? Because then we need it! Hmmmm, typing that does cause a thought to float up ........ that of being needed. I would expect that most of us want to be needed .......... and when we allow that neediness to go out of balance and get too much attention ..... I guess it could cause a layer of darkness. Hold that thought .......... because it does actually tie in with the sentence I wrote on drawing the card.

Anyway, when I look at this imagery and card I don't see a little innocent off to visit her ill grandmother ........... nor do I see a killing machine, bent on feeding its stomach! Instead I see a picture of loveliness. A beautiful day ..... everything in balance, even the trees are smiling ..... the sun is shining, the air is warm ....... and the path bedecked at its sides by colorful flowers. A little girl off to have a picnic ....... brave and headstrong (all that red), resolute and determined .... fully capable of communicating her wants, needs and fears (all that blue). However Wolfie doesn't know what she thinks about him ...... her head is covered, she keeps her thoughts to herself ....... a little insensitive if you ask me. For if you believe all the hype then wolves are bad bad bad ......... yet all he wants is to be loved ...

Could it be ...... dare he think .......... dare he hope .......... that the little girl has picked a flower and is going to turn and give it to him? Look at the happiness on his face at the prospect ...... he even clasps his paws together in hope! Isn't that stance much like an older generation lady who's acting coquettish?

Urrrghh, just reading the story and that innocent little girl ends up cutting up the wolf! OK so he did eat her first .... but I didn't expect to read that! I think I prefer to think of this wolf in its better guise!!

Overall ......... fear creates the grime/darkness ......... wanting to be loved and highly thought of is one thing, fearing that others can only see the negativity is highly limiting .........

I hope she turns round and gives him the rose, after all, even wolves deserve to be loved!

Cleaning out the closets - Second card

2010-06-20T01:00:00.001+01:00

What is the grime that covers it - King of Wands

And here we have the fable of Aladdin and his genie. Oh how much easier life would be if we all had a magic lamp ..... and a genie to do our bidding. A little rub here, a little rub there ...... and all that nasty things in life can go away .......... let's blame someone else. Let's abdicate responsibility. It's not my fault, never my fault. The genie didn't do as I asked. He interpreted my requests the wrong way!

The King of Wands normally stands tall and proud ........ in charge of his realm ....... he's a go-getter ....... an individual, strong, powerful ........ and as a fire sign, can have single-minded determination, perseverance. Here however, the Genie is the larger person. Aladdin has conjured him up but then stands back in the face of the genie's power. He asks for the genie's help ........ believing that he is not capable of achieving things on his own. Oh he tries ...... in fact it wouldn't surprise me if he lit all those lovely lanterns which are showing him his path ......... strange then that after lighting the path, he returns to the same old place ....... if only he could see that he actually had been where he was wanting to go. Oh dear. So not only am I not realising what this special something is, I think I can only get it with someone else's help.

Glad to see I got the right story this time, though I remembered it slightly differently. A nice correlation with the last card too ... "The genie lamp has the ability to manifest dreams and desires" and "the merging of physical sensation with mental intuitiveness" .... both the dreams, different planes and manifestation. I have to chuckle too ........ I'm talking about "spring cleaning" and of course when we clean we dust and rub things ........ like lamps ROFL!

Overall ......... My grime is a lack of belief in self ....... I give my power away ....... I disempower myself!

Cleaning out the closets - First card

2010-06-19T13:16:00.006+01:00

So I'm afraid I've been absent a lot lately ...... life is pretty busy and whilst I'm still drawing cards, it's not as frequent and nor am I writing anything down. Instead, I'm planning on catching up on lots of old readings that I merely wrote notes down for and never got around to finishing! Blogging them, therefore, will be a bit sporadic for the immediate future!

That said .... here's one that I'm updating now :)

The next time I decided to use the Fairy Tale Tarot was with the affirmation questions/spread ...... and this one was all about spring cleaning. I'm pretty sure most of us tend to think of, or remember, fairy tales as soft, inviting, bedtime stories ....... often forgetting the nasty kick (or heartfelt message) they have hidden away in the moral of the story! And so it was here too ............ all really good cards that I'd drawn ......... until I delved deeper!

Affirmation Spread - 1 February 2010

Deck - Fairy Tale Tarot

What area needs the most spring cleaning in your life - Seven of Pentacles

Now we all know that Jack chucks a seed into the earth, up sprouts the beanstalk, he climbs it ..... and eventually finds and grabs the golden goose, scampers back home and is then frantically chopping down the beanstalk so he doesn't get eaten by the giant. Stealing things from giants can have bad side-effects like that! However when I look at this card, Jack seems rather bemused. It's as if he can't see what's right under his nose. Chopping away at the wood and all of a sudden up pops the goose. "Where the hell have you come from" I can just imagine him saying as he scratches his head!

Forests can indicate vast and long-held knowledge ........ trees can be metaphors for our life force, for our connection to the physical plane and the spiritual ..... for they are not only rooted, grounded into the earth ....... but they strive for the heavens. And of course a forest has lots of trees, so that's a hellavu lot of time, knowledge and connection going on.

Jack or rather me .... chopping down a tree, tells me that I am pruning everything back ...... analysing, looking, seeking ........ and I've basically gone too far. Look how far down that stump is! That's not pruning ...... that tree aint ever coming back! So yes I have had opportunities ....... which I've taken ........... absorbed things as a result ......... and have been analysing to see what I need and don't. But too much. Way too much. There comes a point where you need to take stock yes, but you also need to be able to see and appreciate the riches that are in front of you. Sometimes, there comes a point where you have to say, enough is enough. Stop. The end. I'm obviously not recognising something very beneficial which I have in my life.

Very interesting reading the chapter in Lisa's book after typing that out. Well I'm not going to amend what I've written as that is what I saw when I drew the card but this isn't Jack and the Beanstalk so I'm obviously remembering my fairy tales wrong!!! Instead this is a story of Dumly and how he wins the hand in marriage of a princess. It has "by imagining what it is you want, you can realize the power of your dreams" etc. And I can see how that immediately ties in with what I've just put .......... the cliche of "you can't see the wood for the trees" floats straight through my mind too! So appreciate what you've got ....... work out what it is you want ...... and manifest it. Small precision (or pruning) is called for rather than hacking away. Hmmm, interesting indeed!

Overall ......... I need to clean up my "sight". I have more than I realise. In fact I have something very special indeed.

New Deck Spread - The Fairy Tale Tarot by Lisa Hunt

2010-05-22T09:11:00.005+01:00

I started working with this deck back in September last year, predominantly alongside some meditations and affirmation questions each Monday. However, I first used it for the new deck spread, which showed just how great this deck was going to be! Shame I haven't gotten round to typing them up until now!

What do you have to teach me? ........ Six of Wands

If I am the girl, then the deck is the boy ........... and what a lesson he is going to teach. He is fearless, he loves to battle, in fact he looks as if he's playing with this dragon, rather than wanting to kill it ........ I'm not sure I don't feel rather sorry for the dragon, being grasped by the throat. And therein floats the thought into my mind ........... throat .......... and thus communication. Dragons for me are twofold ......... as Cat reminded me, they can represent our fears ........ but they can also be that of the inner serpent, our kundalini ...... pure energy. I do have lots of fears about communicating ......... and of my inner energy ...... and of the merging of the two! So the deck shows the way forward ........ how to be pro-active in dealing with such worries ...... in fact the imagery does strike as particularly apt ........... me, the feminine, the passive just standing there in admiration of the strong masculine, active doing battle. I need to focus on what the fears actually are, understand that they are just fears and not reality ...... so as to delve deeper within, especially when I'm trying to meditate.

And after writing that, reading up on the story in the book, to see this bit that Lisa has written "There is fog obscuring the surface of the water, thus preventing irrational thoughts of the subconscious from interfering with the determination of the conscious mind". Perfect or what!

What do I have to do? ........ Seven of Wands

And so the passively standing girl becomes active. The deck will speak, will show the way forward but then can do no more. It will be back in its box (poor little boy all locked up - don't you love it when a deck pouts LOL), and I have to be the one to shove the witch into the fire. I guess that means the dragon becomes the witch. Again masculine/feminine imagery ......... balance, working together, pooling resources ........ and overall being very pro-active. So much for just sitting there, wringing my hands and thinking I can't meditate, or it's too hard *wail wail* .......... I need to stop being a lazy mare and commit! That can be hard when the fears/witch seems to be so old and ingrown ....... but at least this card shows she's actually going into the fire! Success can be mine! Cat also pointed out to me that the witch represents my old habits and patterns that want to devour me ..... so I really do need to get rid of them .......... I think it's also been the case that I have allowed them to take control of me ....... sad, but true!

This is the story of Hansel & Gretel, which is one I have heard in childhood. A lot of the ones that the deck's cards represent, I haven't heard of, so it's a bit comforting to have drawn this one here. If I remember rightly, the witch's cottage was made of sweets, and they could eat it. I somehow doubt that this means I can eat my way through chocolate to gain inner knowledge ....... shame, think of all the different bars I'd need *grin*.

So, it's been a long time since I read this story, and I have to say it strikes a chord, especially when I relate my inner fears to the kids' parents who are willing to leave them to fend for themselves. Not exactly your most nurturing ideals are they! And I absolutely love this bit "A mouse scurries by, reminding us to take action immediately".

What will our relationship be like? ........ Princess of Cups

And yet another card with the masculine/feminine on! That's 3 out of 3 cards .....very cool! The ocean ........ a swirling, heaving, tumultuous and watery environment ........ well no-one ever said emotions were easy did they! The sun on this card is the first thing that draws me in .......... it's so light and bright, especially after the darkness of the 7 wands. In fact it makes me think of a rising sun ........... bringing light and knowledge, hope and warmth and a new day ......... new beginnings, new possibilities. A new relationship. The masculine has now changed to being completely passive ........... and so eventually it will be with this deck. It is here to help me learn, grow and become more active ........ once that happens, it will go back to sleep as I won't need it any longer ...... well, not until I need another kick up the backside!

The story here is of the Little Mermaid, and it's one I'm not familiar with. Her desires were so strong for the Prince that she was willing to drink poison to be with him. She shed who she really was, and even though she loved him, gave her life for him. Very sad I have to say. And the thought that brings to mind is this ......... that eventually, no matter what the cards tell us, help us with ........... if we are true to our selves and our souls ......... we will listen to that inner guidance ....... trust and believe in our own siren call. And really ....... what are our cards ........ but a tool to help access the depth of our inner guidance. Interesting thought huh?

"Go with the flow and follow your gut" has never sounded more apt.

It's going to be a pleasure working with this deck :)

Affirmation for the Week

2010-05-10T01:00:00.000+01:00

Whilst I may not have been online much lately, real life responsibilities (and the accompanying tiredness that often results) hasn't stopped me from mulling over quite a few different thoughts. One of these more recent thoughts is about how much we absorb by learned behaviour at an early age, and how we are influencing others' life scripts! Although I don't know for definite, I'm pretty sure that over the years (if not decades) there has been many a debate as to how much effect the surrounding environment and learned behaviours have on human beings as children, and how much our behaviour as adults can bring about positive change in others merely by acting as an example. A literal *walking your talk* as it were.

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 10th May 2010)

"I SET A POSITIVE EXAMPLE FOR CHILDREN"

Along with these thoughts, I also read this excerpt from DailyOm, which to me, amplifies the message about how we act, what we say and how we are influencing others around us. I know that I, for one, find it very hard to maintain that balance between positivity and negativity ...... so if I'm aware of that, how much more of a non-verbal message am I sending out that I'm not aware of! Of course, this article does veer towards the view that every parent wishes to be the best that they can be for their children, but unfortunately not all children get to experience parents with that view (or environment) ....... in which case, others can model such behaviour for them (ie. teachers, friends' parents or even anyone they see in the street).

"May 5, 2010
The Best We Can Be
Honoring Our Children

Everything we do and say in the presence of our children makes an impression on them. All is taken in and processed.

Everything we do and say in the presence of our children makes an impression on them. We may think we can get away with swearing or gossiping in front of them when they can’t talk, but we have forgotten that just because they can’t talk doesn’t mean they don’t hear. They are sensitive sponges absorbing their environment in ways we will never know. Even if the words don’t make sense to them, they make an impression, as does the energy behind the words. We honor our children when we acknowledge that they are fully present from the very beginning and when we offer ourselves to them in ways that model the best of what humans can be.

When we bring a child into the world, a great welling up of love and hope fills our hearts. We unequivocally want the very best for our children, and we want to be the best parents a child could ever want. We begin to see ourselves and our lives in a different light, and things that seemed okay before we had a child suddenly reveal themselves as problematical. This can lead to a somewhat mincing review of our habits of speech, thought and feeling, our relationships, and our physical habits. We may feel that we have put ourselves under a microscope, which can be stressful. However, it can also lead to a great healing of our own unresolved issues and, in turn, it enables us to be good parents to our children. Talking to other conscious parents about this life transformation can be very helpful.

Our desire to become the best we can be is often strongest at the very beginning of a child’s life and sometimes loses its intensity as we grow accustomed to their presence. However, it is never too late to look at ourselves and notice whether we are offering our best to our children. That original welling up of love and hope can inspire us throughout our lives to be the best we can be."

Affirmation questions for this week are as follows:

What physical behaviour could children copy from you?
What emotional behaviour could children copy from you?
How do you feel about a child copying your actions?
What would you like to change (if anything)?
What one step could you take to effect this change?

Wishing you all a wonderful and inspiring week ahead!
x Mouse

Move, breathe ...... and find the Joy!

2010-05-04T01:00:00.001+01:00

Card of the day - Monday 12 April 2010

Simplicity (Magical Unicorns)

This is obviously a message I need to pay attention to because not only was it in the New Deck Spread but I have drawn it quite a few times since then. Looking to basics and letting go of excess ....... well sometimes how do we know what that "excess" actually is? Because in order to only do the basics, it's kinda essential that we know that in the first place, don't you think?

For little Miss Stress-Head Mouse, I guess this is more of the message about letting go and relaxing, stop stressing about all the *to do* lists, the needs, wants, musts and shoulds ........... I try to get rid of them, minimise them, I really do .......... but then I do another *list* and then that starts growing, until I realise that suddenly, yet again, there aren't enough hours in the day to fit everything in ...... and that's without adding in the requirements of sleep, meditation and chilling out :(

So for this particular day, I made sure I went to my yoga class ........... actually the exercise bit was on my to do list *grin*, but I also found a few moments in the day and during the yoga practice when the physical realisation was wonderful ............ movement, breath, nutrition, exercise .......... and most important of all ............ JOY ........... find it in each of these things ........ as the advert says ....... just do it ........ and just BE :)

And breathe!

2010-04-25T01:00:00.001+01:00

Card of the day - Sunday 28 March 2010

Relax - Everything's Okay (Magical Unicorns)

So there I was on the Friday, stinking migraine ....... trying to let go of stress ......... and just breathe .......... and this continued throughout the whole weekend because this was the weekend of getting the chickens! Something I'd been quite excited about ........ and yet when the day came, it was all I could do to get there, get them and get home. And Sunday was the first day that they had out and about in the garden ......... getting used to a new environment ....... and I had to get used to them ....... and of course there was Gem! Cats and chickens are supposed to be fine together ......... and I was worried about how he'd react given there are strange creatures in his territory ....... but all he did was look scared and wouldn't even go near them! Then I started worrying about whether this was a good idea (bit late for that) ......... then Gem seemed a bit off colour so I started worrying about that ....... and just to top it all off, I was also worrying about being off work sick the previous day too.

Good job I drew this card, because I kept coming back and looking at it just to remind myself to breathe ....... and to just be in the moment, rather than worrying about what could be, might be or may never even happen! Great advice and one I should endeavour to remember more often!

Stress-induced pain

2010-04-24T01:00:00.001+01:00

The next week's cards were pretty straightforward and as the saying goes *it does what it says on the tin* ...... in other words, too boring for me to even try and make a blog post out of 'em, so I decided not to even bother trying. However, we then move to this card and day ......... and what a perfect pairing they made!

Card of the day - Friday 26 March 2010

Let go of stress (Magical Unicorns)

The previous day I had blogged a post over at Mouse's House about stress and trying to find a coping mechanism. And I really had tried do some positive visualisations, but by the end of the day I was gnashing my teeth and wishing I could sink them into the problem, rather than just ignore it. And as a result of that, ended up with a stinking migraine ......... which led through to Friday and not being able to move my head off the pillow!!! Given that I'd had a migraine *attack* a few weeks previously, I was absolutely positive this was stress-induced ........ so as advice for the day ........... it was THE perfect card to draw. And that's what I did. No work, lots of sleep with peace and quiet and the curtains drawn! And lots of breathing. It helped. A lot :)

Chicken wishes

2010-04-23T01:00:00.005+01:00

Card of the day - Friday 19 March 2010

Imagine (Magical Unicorns)

And chickens was also the theme for the day's advice when I drew Imagine! When we imagine things, whether they be positive or negative, those thoughts are energy ........ and we then send that energy out into the world, often unwittingly. And so it was with this day! There I was, thinking of my castle and the greenery that surrounds (ok make that a very small garden with some really bad wild grass) ........ and also thinking of being patient and biding my time til the date I would be going to get those rescue hens ......... when lo and behold the fairy pops up ............ or in this case rang me on the phone ......... to say there had been a cancellation and would I be able to collect those very chooks in a week's time! OK, so it's not exactly the same as being given a bunch of flowers by a fairy ........ but then I don't look like a unicorn either ......... even if I am pure, innocent and sweet ......... hmmmm, I'm sure I heard some stifled snorts at that!

Egg-cellent Friends

2010-04-16T01:00:00.003+01:00

Card of the day - Wednesday 17 March 2010

Brothers and Sisters (Magical Unicorns)

This one was very true ......... my best friend Quackers is the person that I really and truly class as my sister, in fact I'm pretty positive we've had many past lifetimes together and she is a wonderful soul that everyone gravitates towards. Anyone who has visited Mouse's House recently will have become aware of the fact I have chickens. Yep ......... chickens, but before that happened, I had to have a home for them and given I wanted an Eglu (very easy to keep clean etc etc.) the cheapest place to get one was Ebay. I found one, looked great and they even offered delivery in my area (the only one to do so - I took it as a sign). But the auction finished when I was on the train home. Quackers took care of it for me and got the winning bid in with 20 seconds or so to go. Family doesn't have to mean someone who has the same bloodline after all! Egg-cellent :D

Blunt Advice

2010-04-14T01:00:00.004+01:00

These past couple of weeks have absolutely flown by and whilst I have been using this deck for daily draws, it's been more a case of draw it, note which card it is and have the intention to return and type something up. Which doesn't happen! Hopefully I'll get back into a more regular routine soon!

However, in one respect this has been rather beneficial for this deck, because when I've pondered how how it applies to the day, it has invariably been not a card of *what is going to happen* but *this is my advice for how to handle your day*. Pity I didn't realise it sooner, might have saved myself some grief. So I'll be posting some of the ones that have applied since I started using this deck last month :)

Card of the day - Monday 15 March 2010

Very soon (Magical Unicorns)

I did have a question ......... actually I still have many questions ......... but on this particular day, there was one particular thought going through my head .......... and most of the time when I think about this question, this is the answer I get. So let's be blunt here .......... in other words, shut the **** up, we're sick of you asking, it will be resolved when the time is right ........... go get a life! You don't want to know my response!

Affirmation of the Week

2010-04-12T16:16:00.001+01:00

As most bloggers know, sometimes time away from the pc is needed, and at the moment, this has been the case at Oracle Speak, although I am intending to do more affirmations in the future.

This week instead, is the full list for the affirmations of 2010, which will be updated as more are added through the course of the year :)

Affirmations List - 2010

I am open and accepting of all possibilities
I recognise and appreciate my best friend
I am creating a lasting impression
I wish upon a star
I enjoy spring cleaning
I embrace courage
I look for the best in people
Love is the anchor in my life
I speak up
I am as good as my word
I accept my family for who they are
I am a miracle
Today, I am happy

Affirmation for the Week

2010-03-29T01:00:00.001+01:00

This week, we're kind of revisiting one of our earlier affirmations ........ happiness :)

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 29th March 2010)

"TODAY, I AM HAPPY"

So why revisit or adapt a previous affirmation. Well I kinda think this one is very important ....... and it's all too easy after we've worked through an affirmation for a week or so to then put it back on the shelf and forget about it. Back in October 08 we talked about embracing happiness as a whole, as a way of life ...... and yet maintaining that can be very very hard, especially when life throws its harder challenges at you!

Recently, I read a DailyOm email which brought this back into my mind ....... along with a sharp boot up the backside :D, and which I am sharing with you here:

"March 15, 2010
Finding Your Joy
Be Happy Every Single Day

Being happy doesn’t come naturally to everybody. It is your birthright to be happy, choose happiness everyday.

Our lives are rich with potential sources of happiness, but sometimes we become victims of negative thinking because we believe that focusing on all that has gone wrong will provide us with the motivation we need to face the challenges of survival. When we choose to focus on what makes us happy, however, a shift occurs in the fabric of our existence. Finding something to be happy about every single day can help this shift take place. The vantage points from which we view the world are brought into balance, and we can see that being alive truly is a gift to be savored. There is always something we can be happy about—it is simply up to us to identify it.

On one day, we may find happiness in a momentous, life-changing event such as a marriage or the birth of a child. On another day, the happiness we experience may be a product of our appreciation of a particularly well-brewed cup of a tea or the way the sun shines on a leaf. If we discover that we literally cannot call to mind a single joyful element of existence, we should examine the cause of the blockage standing between us and experiencing happiness. Keeping a happiness journal is a wonderful way to catalog the happiness unfolding all around us so that joy has myriad opportunities to manifest itself in our lives. Writing about the emotions we experience while contemplating joy may give us insight into the factors compelling us to resist it.

Happiness may not always come easily into your life. You have likely been conditioned to believe that the proper response to unmet expectations is one of sadness, anger, guilt, or fear. To make joy a fixture in your existence, you must first accept that it is within your power to choose happiness over unhappiness every single day. Then, each time you discover some new source of happiness, the notion that the world is a happy place will find its way more deeply into your heart. On this day, find one thing to be happy about and let it fill your heart."

Affirmation questions for this week are:

How happy are you subconsciously?
How happy are you consciously?
What blockages to happiness do you have?
What step could you take to remove such blockages?
What benefit could this bring to your life overall?

Wishing you a wonderful and happy week ahead :)
x Mouse

Affirmation for the Week

2010-03-21T12:00:00.003Z

Welcome to another monday and another affirmation. Hopefully you've had a good weekend and have lots to look forward to this week, including recognising all those wonderful bits that make up YOU :)

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 22nd March 2010)

"I AM A MIRACLE"

Yes, you read that right. I am a miracle. Well I am ...... and so are you. So is every single person that is walking on this planet. We live, we breathe, we exist ........ we not only complete many different actions throughout each day, but they are accompanied by thoughts, feelings and words ...... affecting each other and rippling out into the Universe. And then there's all the different functions that our physical bodies do on a minute by minute and second by second basis! That alone is a miracle without factoring in the complex thought and emotional reponses that are connected to the body alone. Then there's the personal growth and lessons that we all go through as we get older, the experiences (and hopefully wisdom) we gain. All within that one body that you call home!

Yet, how many people own that? Believe that about themselves? I have yet to meet anyone who does ........ and that includes myself! All too often we put ourselves down and don't recognise the fact that we are indeed, a walking, talking miracle (OK, now I've got that bloody song in my head "Living Doll" by Cliff Richard *eek* .... get it out, get it out :D).

Here's a wonderful except that Living Life Fully had on one of their recent weekly ezines ....... enjoy!

"With Love. . . Leo
Leo Buscaglia

Tonight I would like to talk to you about something really important to me. I'm constantly meeting people and working with people. And I'm becoming so very concerned because the people I meet are so wonderful and so beautiful, and yet they are afraid to show their wonder and show their beauty. They are in constant doubt about being beautiful and wonderful. If there is to be any hope for us as lovers, we've got to make sure to express this love and this caring and bring it out into the open and not be afraid.

So tonight, I would like to talk to those people who aren't sure yet and are a little bit reticent about being all that they are.

It's amazing--you may not realize it, but so much of what you are not is because you are literally standing in your own way of becoming. And what I'm going to talk to you about tonight is, get the hell out of your way! Fly, because it's all available to you! And all you have to do is take the responsibility and do it. But so many people don't trust themselves. They don't even like themselves.

I was in the office recently--many of you know that I have a lot of things in my classes that are voluntarily mandatory. And one of the things that is voluntarily mandatory is that everybody come to visit me. Now, that isn't asking too much, and I get frightened people who com in all trembling.

I had this lovely girl who sat across from me, and I said, "Tell me about yourself. We're going to be together for 16 weeks in classes, and I don't want you to be a stranger. You tell me about you, and then I'll take over and tell you about me."

And she said, "I don't have anything to say."

I said, "What do you mean? Tell me about all your wonder."

She said, "Wonder?!" And then there was a long pause, and she said, "Well, I'm too short."

That had never occurred to me until she told me. And then I thought, well, I'll counteract with something good. I said, "Yes, but you're a darn good student. Do you know that you got an A on your mid-term?"

And she said, "Sheer luck."

How do you like that?

I said, "But you know that you're unique in all the world. . . ."

"Not me. I'm not unique," she said. "And besides, I'm not very good-looking, and not a lot of people seek me out. And I'm lonely a lot of the time."

It occurred to me that if she really believes that she's short and ugly and stupid and has nothing to contribute, why would anybody seek her out? Oh, did I work on that one!

When she walked out, she was four inches taller. And if I ever see her lean over again, there's going to be hell to pay.

Jack Parr says a wonderful thing. He says, "My life seems like one long obstacle course, with me as the chief obstacle."

Isn't that great?

I always love to mention the book Souls on Fire by Elie Wiesel. It's a beautiful book, and he makes a statement I really love. He says that when you die and you go to meet your Maker, you're not going to be asked why you didn't become a messiah or find a cure for cancer. All you're going to be asked is, why didn't you become you? Why didn't you become all that you are?

There are no two people in this audience who are alike. Isn't that a message to tell you--that you are unique and you have something to say? And isn't it a message that you have a right to say it before you leave the face of the earth?

How often have you heard yourself say, "I'm nothing"? You're nothing if you think you're nothing. . . .

You are a miracle. You have something to share that nobody else in the world has. To keep that hidden because of self-defeating ideas is to die less than you are. Don't let that happen. Your greatest responsibility is to become everything that you are, not only for your benefit but for mine."

Affirmation questions/spread for this week are:

What do you see when you look in the mirror?
What blockage/issue are you not aware of at present?
What can you do to improve this?
What aspect of your miraculousness can you currently share with the world?
What benefit could this bring to your daily life?

Wishing you all a wonderful week where you can see the miracle that you are :)

Blessings
x Mouse

A repetitive day!

2010-03-20T00:43:00.000Z

Card of the day - Monday 8 March 2010

Practice (Magical Unicorns)

So, first daily draw with this deck ......... what wonderful and awe-inspiring message is it going to give me! Guess there's going to be lots of repetition going on, especially in connection with work. Stuff being brought out to be redrafted, amended, redrafted, amended. Sounds exciting, not! Am also going to say that I'll be attending the yoga lunchtime class, lots of repetition to be done there too, and if I get any spare time in the evening .........more repetition from getting chores done (that I haven't done at the weekend) and possibly some meditation too. Doesn't exactly sound awe-inspiring does it!

Update: Yep, attended the yoga and the working day was much the same as any other. Lots of repetition! Pretty basic message for a pretty basic (and boring) day!

Journaling Prompt No.17

2010-03-17T23:50:00.007Z

The birds are singing a song from ......... with ....... lyrics!

The birds are singing a song from the Fey Tarot with 2 swords lyrics!

Every evening, as I walk
I listen to those gorgeous birds talk
And every night, since spring comes near
I hope more birdsong that I'll hear.

But tonight no soft song instead a screech
As if to battle once more into the breach
and then a loud and raucous yell
The volume beginning to swell

I looked and looked and couldn't see
Hidden from view, amongst every tree
I stood and stared and took my time
Hoping that eventually, the lullaby would be mine.

And so the light started to fade
And then I felt the cold invade
I hadn't realised I'd been stood so long
For some of my outer clothes had gone!

Withered and weary, I suddenly knew
And then the panic once more grew
Time to look away and breathe
Let it all dissipate and leave!

But what message was hidden in that raucous yell?
That sounded as a loud as a warning bell?
Stop staring so hard and so long
You'll only end up with the message wrong

There are none so blind as those who see
So stop looking, close your eyes and listen to me!

copyright: Mouse 17.03.2010

New Deck Spread - Magical Unicorns

2010-03-16T12:00:00.001Z

Time for another deck and I was planning on getting back to a different tarot deck, until this one grabbed my attention on the shelf. As with the Angel Therapy cards, Doreen Virtue's decks aren't ones that I gravitate towards for regular use, however I'm hoping that this deck will be as forthright and blunt as those cards .......... they were surprisingly spot on, which should tell me not to judge a book by its cover :D

What do you have to teach me? ........ Simplicity

Put your energy into the basics, and let go of excess

I love the imagery on this card ......... who wouldn't want to live in a place like that! Ducks, cats, dogs, flowers, river, bridge and lots of greenery and trees! Sigh. So first off I'm going to say that yes, this deck will give me the answers I seek ........ and it's a deck that needs to be ..... or should be ...... looked at from a positive point of view. No being maudlin and *oh woe is me*. It will help me to see the beauty within each lesson and to recognise the growth that is taking place for me in life, generally.

As for the title and sentence on the card ........ well, I guess that's very blunt. Stop making this ....... and other things, more complicated than they need to be. I know that when I do that, without meaning to, all that happens is I end up not achieving anything because I've tied myself up in so many knots! Declutter as it were! There's also the thought that I need to realise what I actually want and need too ......... rather than what I *have*.

How perfect is this ...... after typing that, I've gone to see what the LWB says ........ "For example, what do you really want? What do you know that you don't want? These are basics that will help you answer bigger questions later".

What do I have to do? ........ Change

The changes that you're going through are positive

For someone that normally doesn't like change of any kind ......... this would be a scary card for me. However, just this afternoon I actually said out loud, to myself, that I really could do with change now! So perfect timing. As for the sentence ....... well this deck must have read my mind or been listening to me earlier because I was anything but positive. I do try very hard to have a positive outlook these days, but today that just wasn't washing. And yeah, I even started down the path of wondering what the hell I've done wrong to *deserve this* blah blah blah ........... comfort eating helped some ........ thankfully there were no chocolate bars left in the house else I think I'd have eaten them all!

Given the darkness of this card compared to the last one, I think it's also affirming that need to look for the light when things seem darkest. Not an easy task!

*These changes come, in part, because you're growing older. You like different things now, compared to when you were younger. It's okay for you to change, because change is a part of life* .......... I actually said these precise things to myself only the other day. Amazing!

What will our relationship be like? ........ Practice

The best way to be good at a skill is to practice, practice, practice until you get it right

Now this looks like they're having some fun :) Music playing and I love that there's so much water around them, and greenery too which I always think of as progression!

Practice is the one thing I should know above all else. I've previously been involved in sport which required a hellavu lot of practice, time and again, going over the little things, the basics LOL ......... of course, the basics :D because without them, you don't have a sturdy foundation on which to build! I've always thought that this applies to everything in life and not just sport .......... work, education, sport, games, reading, love, inner self are just a few examples.

*So, whether your dream is to paint, write, dance, sing, or do crafts, practice is one way to make your dreams come true*. Sigh. I have been slacking lately ......... guess this is another kick up the backside to get motivated again! Pretty blunt, wouldn't you say?

Affirmation for the Week

2010-03-14T12:00:00.001Z

Time flies and it's that time of the week already, another Monday and another affirmation. Here in the UK we have just had Mother's Day, which, while we shouldn't need just a day to honour our mothers as I feel our daily actions should speak loud enough, it is kinda nice to treat our loved ones. However, there are many people in this world who don't get on with their families, either a single member or the whole pack for as many varied reasons as there are minutes in each day.

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 15th March 2010)

"I ACCEPT MY FAMILY FOR WHO THEY ARE"

Last Monday, the DailyOm's email was about accepting family, which is totally different to condoning. Acceptance can bring peace into our lives but it can take a very long time to reach if we have had traumatic exchanges with family members. I, personally, have been in this situation, and it tooks me many many years to come to a form of acceptance for how others have behaved and continue to behave. By accepting them for who they are doesn't mean I like what they do or say, nor does it say I will let you overstep my boundaries, but what it has done for me, is bring more peace into my life especially in connection with how I interact with them. It also means that should the worst ever happen (death) then I know that I have done everything I could have whilst being true and authentic to myself! It wasn't easy reaching this stage, but it was vital for my well-being. Affirmation questions are at the end :)

"March 8, 2010
Gifts From The Universe
Accepting Your Family

Accepting our family doesn’t mean we have to like them; acceptance can free your soul to live the life you want.

Families can contain a fascinating grouping of personalities. Despite the potential for so many to have similar traits, there are many different ways to express them. As people marry into families and have children, even more personalities enter the picture. There may be some people that we would not choose to be related to, but that’s what friends are for.

If we trust in a universe that has a higher purpose for everything, then we must believe that family members are in our lives for a good reason. These reasons may be easy to see and appreciate with some, but others may offer us a challenge. With those, we can look for something we can learn or perhaps teach. In the modern world where everyone seeks to be individuals, many move far away from their families in an attempt to escape them. But when we’ve successfully built a world around us that requires no one’s help, our families are the people who are still attached to us. We can still choose whether or not to honor the family ties, and how to treat each other, but the fact remains that we are energetically tied to our families.

Our families help us see where we have come from so that we may more clearly decide where we’d like to go. If we can learn to accept our families for who they are, then we go out into the world armed with the ability to deal with anyone. Some families are better than others at preparing us for the world. What we learn from our families, even if they are simply blank spots on our family trees, becomes the basis of our identities as individuals. Rather than denying our connections, we can choose to accept their presence in our lives. Acceptance does not mean we have to like them; we simply acknowledge that we are connected to them and honor that connection for like it or not, there is a reason. When we can embrace all that they bring into our experience, we may be grateful for all we have learned from them and have to learn, while we experience everything that comes with family fully and completely."

Affirmation questions are:

How accepting are you of [family member]?
What blockage to acceptance of them do you have?
How can you work through this blockage?
What would this bring to your relationship with them?
How will it benefit YOU and your life?

Note that the last position/card should be interpreted in the most positive aspect! Wishing you a wonderful and accepting week ahead :)
x Mouse

Third Eye Flashes

2010-03-11T21:00:00.002Z

Card of the day - Friday 5 March 2010

Intuition (Dreaming in Color: Luman Deck)

And back we come to Intuition. Given that I've already drawn this once for the week, I was kinda bored to see it again as I wanted to get different cards to post on here. That said, the way it applied to my day has been very different from last Sunday, when I took it to mean *being* ...... going with the flow and whatever called.

Today it has meant Intuition ....... that of thoughts, flashes, imagery ....... through the third eye .......... and the dawning realisations of them.

I had a flash/thought image a couple of days ago for a friend, and while I was pretty sure everything was going to be ok, and didn't feel worried in the slightest, me knowing that is never going to stop someone else from worrying completely and as I do, I let the image go from my mind. Tonight I got home to find confirmation that everything was ok and remembered the specific image I had ........ fantastic news :)

I also had an aha moment during the day. I see signs ........ all the time ......... and have come to accept that when I keep seeing something the same ........ there's a message in it for me. Like when I constantly see hearts and love (blogged about that at Mouse's House) time and again and in different forms. Lately I've been seeing Tiger stuff everywhere. Now I love cats ...... I know, not normal behaviour for a Mouse LOL ....... but I do ....... and freely admit to not only being owned by a cat ..... but being bossed around by him too. I've also always identified with lions of course ........ black panthers and snow leopards ....... and now Tiger has come to play ....... everywhere I look ...... from fan pages on Facebook that I've just joined to articles in the British media ....... to charities that I receive emails from. But I didn't realise it was a sign until today. So now the lightbulb of intuition has kicked in (better late than never) ....... and it's off for more googling to see what I can find out ......... happy days!

Journaling Prompt No.16

2010-03-11T00:00:00.001Z

As I look back over my shoulder, I realise I'm leaving behind ........

Fey Tarot

As I look back over my shoulder, I realise I'm leaving behind ........ 9 Cups! What? I hear you cry! The most wonderful of cards, the most hopeful of cards ....... and you're leaving it behind? Cue gasps and shrieks of horror.

But regardless of how many gasps I hear, I know it's time. A time of wishing, a time of hoping ......... and let's be honest here when you look at this ........ a time of sitting rather lazily on my backside. Going going gone. Waving bye bye! Now now those are stars around my head but lately they have definitely not been of the inebriated variety and more of the sending energy out kind of thing! And as I stride forwards ......... ok make that a wobbly totter ........ off towards my new future ........ I'm leaving all that wishing and hoping and dreaming behind .......... yes I'm also leaving the laziness behind ....... and the *oh I'd love this to happen but really I know it won't because I'm not actually doing anything about it* motto behind. I've gotten very good at that last one I have to say! I'm also leaving behind the largest cup of all ......... that which has held all my expectations and my huge long criteria-filled tick-list, and of course all the emotions that I dared not show out in the world.

The thing is ...... once you start sending out energy, it's eventually going to come back like a boomerang ......... and what wasted opportunities if, when your wishes start appearing, you don't do anything about them! Remember last week's 5 swords? Well then, you'll recognise those stars around my head from that card! So I've packed everything I needed into my little shoulder back and with a flutter of my wings have gotten to my feet ............. time to move down from my isolated little spot on the hill, although it was very comfortable .......... and start the next part of my journey ............

GULP ........... guess I'd better turn my gaze forwards now ........... and swallow the lump in my throat .......... I'm strong, I'm whole ....... I'm emotionally complete ........... goodbye to my past .......... now let's welcome in the future :)

Doing the right stuff

2010-03-09T12:00:00.002Z

Card of the day - Thursday 4 March 2010

Nurturing (Dreaming in Color: Luman Deck)

When I drew this card I breathed a sigh of relief and thought *Now that's more like it*! After the darkness in colour of the previous day's card this one seemed to feel bright and springlike, full of hope and warmth. It made me smile :) I hoped for a quiet day where I would be able to potter around and get on with things in a more leisurely manner, without stress or strain ......... and then by the time I came home, I took one look at it and thought how in hell did that relate to my day?

I definitely didn't get to potter, it's been freezing cold ....... in fact so cold it feels like winter is starting to return again ........ and I didn't really get time to do anything I class as nurturing. I drew a card for Friday and totally ignored this one!

So giving myself a swift kick up the backside today, because let's be honest here ........ it's not the cards that don't apply ....... it's that I'm not seeing the connection, and when that happens it frustrates the hell out of me, and it's my own fault, because I'm exceptionally lazy with my cards. If I can't *get it* immediately, I have been known to just ignore a daily draw completely ....... saying that, I'm sure a lot of other people have done that too *grin*.

Instead, I see this as doing the right kind of stuff for myself .......... going for a long walk at lunchtime with a friend instead of sitting on lazy backside at desk ......... getting healthy food when I went grocery shopping and reducing the amount of chocolate bars bought (that was really hard to do LOL) ........ and watching Grey's Anatomy ........ as I don't watch much tv and this is the one programme I make time for. So not nurturing from my normal point of view, but I can see how it now applies. Isn't hindsight a wonderful thing *grin*.

Affirmation for the Week

2010-03-08T10:57:00.000Z

I actually had no inspiration this past weekend for an affirmation, so was going to leave it and see if anything struck for next week, but then I came into work and read one of the DailyOm emails which I thought was great, so here's this week's affirmation after all!

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 8th March 2010)

"I AM AS GOOD AS MY WORD"

And since I doubt I'd be as eloquent as those DailyOm words, I'm copying it here as this week's food for thought! Affirmation questions will be at the end.

"March 5, 2010
As Good As Your Word
Promises

Be careful with the promises you make as they are energetic vows taken seriously by our souls and the universe.

Ever since human beings could speak to one another, they have been making promises and keeping them or not keeping them. Those who keep their promises are regarded as people of integrity, while those who don’t keep their promises are regarded as people who at best can’t be taken seriously and at worst can’t be trusted. Sometimes we forget how powerful our words are, and we use them haphazardly or unconsciously, creating expectations that are never fulfilled, leaving disappointment and distrust in our wake.

On an even deeper level, there are promises we may have made to ourselves that we don’t remember because they have slipped into our unconscious. An early heartache may have been followed by a promise never to trust love again. Without realizing it, we may be fulfilling that promise and wondering why our love life looks so grim. At an even deeper level, many people who recall past lives become aware that they made a promise lifetimes ago that they are still keeping. For example, a vow of poverty taken in a lifetime as a monk may be holding someone back from fulfilling his earning potential now. Upon realizing that we have made a promise we no longer wish to be beholden to, we can perform a ritual of requesting release from that bond. In doing so, we clear ourselves of outmoded connections and patterns, returning ourselves to a clean slate. Then we can resolve to remember that our word is sacred and to be very conscious of any promises we make to ourselves or to others.

We may ask to be released from any promises made to ourselves or others in our present, past, or future lives, consciously or unconsciously, that are holding us back from fulfilling our greatest good. We may ask that love, light, and healing be sent to any souls who have suffered from our inability to be true to our word, including ourselves. We can ask for the wisdom to do our best and from this point forward to be true to our word, promising only what we truly intend to deliver. The resulting clear conscience and liberated energy will illustrate this truth: We are only as good as our word. "

Affirmation questions are:

How strong has your word/promise been in the past?
How strong is it now?
What could you do to strengthen your word/promises?

Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead :)
x Mouse

Being indulgent

2010-03-06T12:00:00.004Z

Card of the day - Wednesday 3 March 2010

Indulgence (Dreaming in Color: Luman Deck)

When I drew this card I noted the blue light around the sun ......... so figured that I would be drawing on the experiences from Pettiness and continue to speak, that the day overall would be quite mellow, chilled out even ........ and I'd be looking at things from a more spiritual perspective.

Then on Thursday when I came to type up how the day had gone, I just didn't get it. I couldn't see how the card applied. I hadn't over-indulged in anything, hadn't been out spending ........ unfortunately hadn't been pigging out on cake either nor did I have any chocolate in the house. Given the card, perhaps I should have gone and just bought some LOL.

But at the time of typing this up (Friday night) I'm looking back and getting a few tiny aha's springing to mind. So here's how I take the imagery to apply to my day! There was speaking up but it was day-to-day stuff. Given the knock-on effects of Pettiness however, I see the green inner colour of that blue surrounding the sun to day that the vocalisation/chatting was of a more healing nature, or at the very least, came from a more open heart (given that the personal heart chakra colour is green and throat chakra is pale blue). There was a huge spiritual lesson to be learned from voicing thoughts over the past week (the amount of purple on the card and especially in the background). It was a "busy busy busy' day, overcrowded with work even and given how tightly those leaves are crammed at the front of the card ....... well the saying of *you can't see the wood for the trees* springs to mind ........ I certainly couldn't see past my desk for most of the day ........... yet I tried to focus on an inner sense of calm and keep my emotions on an even keel ..... especially since there were a couple of things that could have ruffled the waters!

So not indulgence for me ........ but rather by me ........ being indulgent of others' and their idiosyncracies. After all, we're all different, and that's a good thing!

Eggshell Day

2010-03-05T12:00:00.001Z

Card of the day - Tuesday 1 March 2010

Pettiness (Dreaming in Color: Luman Deck)

Another lovely worded card for the day. Oh joy of joys! I actually see the bottom pink on this card as very spiky, therefore a need to tread carefully. On eggshells perhaps. I'm also not very keen on the shade of green on those leaves, which seem a bit sick-looking. So someone's stomach turning perhaps. And compared to the sun from yesterday's card, this one seems very bright, very sharp and very in your face. Looks like someone is going to be annoyed by the little things and wanting to have a dig. I'm hoping it's not me!

Update: This turned out to be spot on. Walked very carefully indeed, and feeling sick as my stomach lurched while I tried to find appropriate words to say to someone. So very in your face too! No annoyance as far as I'm aware ...... though I wasn't too happy about having to deal with this particular something. Cool draw!

Concerned

2010-03-04T12:00:00.002Z

Card of the day - Monday 1 March 2010

Aggression (Dreaming in Color: Luman Deck)

Oh dear, not a good word. Aggressive ....... well I've definitely been called that in my time ........ although some people do tend to see assertiveness as aggression, which is not the same thing ........ but I guess that's also dependent on what experiences they've had. I think of myself these days as assertive ....... but I'm guessing that tomorrow (I drew this Sunday) I won't be seen that way.

So ....... what to expect. I guess I'm going to be busy ........ I may even find it hard to fit everything into my day. And I've not been to the gym for a couple of weeks ....... not just laziness, ended up with a huge (fist sized) black, blue, purple, red and green bruise after the last night out ........ which meant no twisting, no laying on the area so no yoga for starters, let alone anything else that would put pressure on the area .......... so tomorrow is my first day back ...... and I'm raring to go. Well ....... I will be if I ever get to bed and get some sleep LOL! However, if work is busy, I may need to cancel my lunchbreak ......... in which case there may be a few growls :)

So that's the word ......... what about the imagery? I actually see the imagery as rather mellow ........... chilled out ...... pinky rather than red. And that sun is rather nice too ......... pale like the colour of yellow roses that denote friendship. So am going to say that I may be feeling aggressive on behalf of a friend ......... but am rather more laid back in my own self ........ that's not to say the possibility for irritation isn't there. More that it won't affect me too much :)

Update: Have felt pretty concerned for a friend today and the pain that they are going through. Injustice does make me angry, especially when it's for friends. I was pretty chilled out all day, although busy. Even made the gym. Irritation was there, but managed to keep emotions all calm just like the water on this card. A good day ....... made even better by getting home just before it got properly dark and hearing birds sing. A high point, just like that warm sun :)

Journaling Prompt No.15

2010-03-03T12:00:00.002Z

I got a letter from ........ with some imminent news. I need to know .....

I got a letter from The Fey Tarot with some imminent news. I need to know ..... 5 Swords

Dear Mouse,

I've been trying to write to you for a wee while, but unfortunately the postman has been a bit blocked. You've been so preoccupied with learning about a particular matter that you weren't listening properly. So I took the liberty of writing to you.

I know you feel like you're in a desert right now, and that there's not much to look forward to ............ well, apart from yet more sand that is ...... and I know you've hidden away in your little oasis. By the way, congrats on making it so much more cosy than this time last year, I am impressed, I especially like the snuggle-ability of drawing the curtains and pulling the throw over you when you want to hide! And before you ask ...... no, I haven't been peeking through your living room window!

Anyway, I know it's rather isolated where you are, and it feels like it's been like that for some time. OK yes, I know it has been like that for some time .......... the sword you sit on has become a bit historic really ........ but that was kinda necessary. For your own good. To heal. To learn. You have been a good student, but I wish you would practice a bit more.

So here's the thing ......... you know some of the basics of meditation, of the law of attraction, of energy ....... now use it! Think, feel, see, believe. Create that energy. Send it out. It's only going to stultify if you keep it in. Be specific too!

Oh and once you're done with the energising, creating and wishing stuff ....... get down off that sword, that barrier of a sand dune you erected may shift with the incoming wind that's going to be returning that energy (and wishes if you're lucky) back at you ;)

Being

2010-03-02T12:00:00.002Z

Card of the day - Sunday 28 February 2010

Intuition (Dreaming in Color: Luman Deck)

I drew this card at the day's end, asking how my day had been. Pretty spot on really, though I guess that depends on how you would interpret intuition :)

To me, this is a very gentle card, especially given the pastel shade of green. With a dominance of green and purple, it speaks of the personal heart and crown chakra ....... yet there is also a lot of black. While most people think of black as a colour to be avoided in imagery, or that it represents darkness (which it can do a lot of the time) or negativity (that too), I also see it as being of the void, of space, of time or timelessness ........... or nothingness (actually if I remember correctly, that's a card from the Osho Zen, hmmm perhaps I'd better start using that deck again soon). I also get an image of a duck on the bottom right as I look at it ......... which is very apt, because the only person I sent a text to today was Quackers :)

Heart and crown chakras are apt ......... I participated in a full moon meditation in the evening, connecting to the earth grid, to receive and send healing and to connect to that space, oneness ....... or whatever people like to call it depending on their beliefs.

I think the word intuition also applies on another level ......... that of *being* ...... going with the flow ........ doing whatever calls ...... and this is very much how I spent the day ........ and as a result, felt very peaceful and chilled out by the time the day ended :)

Using your intution ......... how would you interpret this card? :)

Earthquake

2010-03-01T12:00:00.001Z

Time to use a different deck I think ......... and since this was to hand I figured it was time to use it again ......... feels like it's been out of my hands for way too long. This was actually my very first oracle deck, and as a result, has a very special place in my heart :) It is also my favourite for shuffling, as it just has a different feel to it when you pick up the cards ........ different cardstock maybe ....... I dunno ........ I just know they feel great in my hands, and in my heart ...... and I highly recommend them for anyone to use, either for reading for the self, for others ....... and even meditation. They've proved to be very interesting for visualisations/journeying for me! And you know when people ask what deck you'd save if there was a fire and everyone always replies *I couldn't choose between them* ......... well normally I'd say that ....... but this would be it, THE oracle deck I'd never ever get rid of. Anyway, onto card of the day!

Card of the day - Saturday 27 February 2010

Upheaval (Dreaming in Color: Luman Deck)

I drew this Friday night ........ and must admit when I saw it, wondered what on earth was going to go wrong with my day on Saturday. Nothing special planned, in fact quite a quiet day. I'm definitely moving back into Hermit mode right now ..... in fact I'm craving it. Car was due back at the garage so I hoped that nothing extra would be found wrong with it.

So how did it relate? To be honest, there was no thunder and lightning weather-wise here, nothing went wrong with my day and even the repair I thought necessary to the car wasn't needed (huge sigh of relief at that ..... I think even my bank cards did a dance of joy!).

However ......... I heard on Saturday about the intended tsnumani for North Island, New Zealand and promptly started worrying about friends other there, especially Cat. Thankfully all was well and although some high water (5 feet!!) and weather warnings, no-one I know was affected, and I don't think there were any injuries there. I suppose this could also equate to the earthquake that happened in Chile ........ because whilst I do go by imagery with my cards ...... and this does show lightning pouring down ........ the title on the card is Upheaval ......... and what's an earthquake if not an upheaval of earth?

Please send prayers to the survivors, that they are found and made safe, as soon as possible.

Affirmation for the Week

2010-02-28T18:42:00.001Z

It seems as though this year is my year for confrontation ........ or rather learning how to deal with them ....... instead of wanting to go hide under a table! And that's what's brought about this week's affirmation:

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 1st March 2010)

"I SPEAK UP"

I was actually going to talk about how this is all connected to standing up for myself, but realised that recent events were actually directed in a more specific manner, after all standing up for one's self can be done in a manner of different ways other than vocalisation.

Speaking up. Vocalising. Putting actions, thoughts and/or emotions into words. And then actually letting them come out of your mouth. This is something I've always had a hard time doing. Much much easier to put thoughts onto paper, and then edit, re-read, and edit again before eventually sending off the final version. That way you get time to think, to hone and look at how your words may be interpreted from a more detached perspective. And much harder when you don't have that time and space when words are being vocalised and someone else is opposite you listening and maybe not understanding you.

There can be many reasons why people find vocalisation hard .......... nervousness, unwanted blushing, stuttering and stammering, lack of coherence about what they want to talk about, worrying about how they might be perceived or how their words may be taken, being rejected, being judged or even avoidance of responsbility.

However, there can come a point when we know that something isn't quite right and even if it's hard to put into words, that gut feeling tells you that you just have to do something about it. And if it's hard to put into words then it is likely to be even harder to get your point, feelings and specific meaning across to the other person. And for me, once you know you have to do something ........ and actually go to do it ........ then there's the responsibility bit. Because words do have power. Saying words out loud is an action all of it's own ......... and will then, just like the ripples on a pond ....... cause a reaction. Which means we have to look to our inner core, trust that we are saying the right thing (for us) for the right reasons ........ remember that anchor of love from last week's affirmation? .......... and be as open as we can on the matter ........... and ultimately, then take the responsibility for whatever happens as a result.

That responsibility ......... or "consequences" ....... is one of the things that has held me back in the past, for many different reasons ........ emanating from many different experiences over a long period of time ......... but one thing I have learnt (which, of course, doesn't mean to say it will hold true for others) ........ is that when I speak up for myself, speak my truth ....... then not only am I being authentic ......... I am also being pro-active ......... and I'm also releasing fear, worry and a burden that I'd been carrying.

This has been the case for me very recently, and I found it very very hard to get my words and feelings across, mainly because I do get very emotional, even if I don't show that to others I don't know or trust well enough ............ and also because of what may happen as a result. I do know that I had to do something ......... and I do feel as if I've now got rid of a weight on my shoulders. The specific situation hasn't changed just yet ........ but I'm confident it will. I also know that one consequence will be speaking to someone else who is also connected to this matter ......... I'm not looking forward to that, but given that I believe in not only taking responsibility but also learning as much as possible from the difficult things that life throws at us (well, maybe not all of them LOL) ......... have agreed to do this. I must also admit that I'm hoping that by repeatedly speaking up for myself (this is not the first time I've had to do this, this year and we've only had 2 months of the year pass by so far), eventually it will become easier ......... and I'll learn from it and become more *fluent* as it were, getting my words across in a fluid and succint manner.

I hope that if others find speaking up scary, difficult or hard ....... that they may be able to look within themselves and find out the reason why ....... and then help themselves to stand up for themselves in this way. With practice, with love and with authenticity. Baby step by baby step.

Affirmation questions this week are:

How is your current vocalisation in difficult situations?
What experience has contributed to this negatively?
What experience has contributed to this positively?
What step can you now take to improve vocalisation?
What long-term benefit will this give you?

Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead :)
x Mouse

Feel the fear and do it anyway!

2010-02-26T12:00:00.006Z

Card of the day - Thursday 25 February 2010

Strength (World Spirit Tarot)

Strength comes in many different forms. It can be strength of beliefs, thoughts, feelings, actions ......... it can denote strength of character, of moral fibre ......... of dedication to a cause, but guaranteed that when strength is being called upon, there's usually a testing time hidden away somewhere because otherwise that Strength will not need to be visible or only part of it is needed (8's as an aspect of Strength)!

And so it's been for me on this day although I kinda knew how the card would play in as soon as I drew it the previous evening. The shape of how the lion is curled around the person in this card also denotes how I was protected by my Guides, whose wisdom I definitely called upon as soon as I got up in the morning.

I have to add in a couple of bits what the book has for this card, as it's so apt ........... especially given the reference to Mouse :)

"A woman nestles in the lap of a great lion. In the palm of her hand sits a luminous mouse ... [sic] ... Clearly, Strength is about far more than physical force; it is an emblem of inner fortitude. When it appears, it encourages you to tap into the deep sources of strength within yourself. You may find the courage to take risks, face your fears ... "

Absolutely perfect for a "feeling the fear and doing it anyway" day!

Hidden Treasure

2010-02-25T12:00:00.005Z

Card of the day - Wednesday 24 February 2010

Six of Swords (World Spirit Tarot)

Ah yes, what relief. Moving quickly from the 5 to the 6 of swords. Rescue is at hand! Or is it?

Now it's all very well and good to think that this means I'll be moving out of a current situation, especially given that this is a boat, and people are getting into it. But the swords aren't guarding the whole boat ........ nor are they lining up in the ocean to provide the way forward .......... what they've surrounded is a chest! And what do chests contain ........ but treasure! And where am I likely to be on this card? On the boat with the treasure and offering help to others? I wish. Nope, I'm much more likely to be up there on that quay ....... trying to get on the damn boat. That eye also bothers me. It ties in with something else I heard on Monday.

So a rescue of sorts is underway, but the whole message cannot be gleaned yet. I need hindsight for that. Instead, I think my Guide has come to pay a visit ...... and what I'm experiencing at the moment holds a hidden lesson ........ some gem that I will eventually realise has been for my greater good. The only problem I can see with that ....... is that normally this means something painful is going to happen and I'm not exactly going to be enjoying the experience! Guess I'd better get back to some meditation and see if I can garner a clue or two that my Guide is trying to help me understand!

Update: Wednesday did indeed hold a big lesson for myself, that of speaking up. And yes, very painful it was too, and I didn't enjoy any part of the experience. It's all not over yet either, so more time will be needed to see that bigger picture. I also think that treasure is soul-related ......... which means I'm being tested! Let's hope I'm passing!

Journaling Prompt No.14

2010-02-24T23:17:00.002Z

The Universe has gifted me with ........

Fey Tarot ......... 4 Wands

The Universe has gifted me with a tree to call my own ......... I mean home ......... well I mean both :) It knew I needed stability ........ somewhere to rest my weary head after such a long journey .......... and so the road it had me walking .... led to where I am now. Of course I didn't realise at that time that I'd end up here ........... nor that I'd stay for so long! My god how time flies! I also didn't realise that the Universe was going to allow my roots to grow quite so thick, nor so deep. I'm presuming that I'm meant to stay given how deep they've gone now ............ and how the grass has grown around me. And that's a kind of comfortable thought really, even though I used to have itchy feet ........ plus how could I uproot now? That would be some kind of upheaval. Hmmm, best not to think about that right now.

Yes there are some problems around ......... aren't there always. Some are little pebbles and others are boulders ......... but all are challenges and can be overcome ......... I mean look at how high I've grown in comparison to what was once a mountain *smirks*.

One thing they don't tell you about settling roots down though ......... is that you need to learn how to bend with the wind ........ be a bit more flexible with those around you .......... if you don't, that's when your branches will get lopped off, break, or fall down ........ and you don't want to be limbless .......... not a good state for a tree to be in!

But best of all? That's gotta be those little fairies you see darting about ....... polishing the bells and whistles like I'm something special ........... like they're proud of me ........ that's something the Universe never told me I'd be given ........ nor did I expect ........... and to be honest .......... sometimes even now, I do wonder whether I'm imagining them darting around when I look down at my roots! Because I move so slowly they can't see that I'm dancing with joy at what they're doing ......... but I am ........ and maybe one day I'll let the leaves whisper that to them :)

Has the Universe given me a gift? No ......... it's given me many more than just the one!

Battle-laden

2010-02-23T22:25:00.001Z

Card of the day - Tuesday 23 February 2010

Five of Swords (World Spirit Tarot)

Oh great, another battle-laden day ahead. And one in which I feel I'll be the one left feeling all battered and bruised! And isolated, given how cold this card looks. However ....... isn't there always a *but* LOL ......... there are 3 swords broken on the ground ...... so that could mean past hurts, pain & sorrow are finished. Destroyed. Broken. The fourth, broken but still in one piece ......... time out needed ....... quiet, peace ........ and I definitely identify with that, feeling very tired and wanting *me time* ........ in which case when I get off my tired backside and turn around ..... there'll be a shiny new sword ready for me to go play with!

Definitely a testing time mentally for me .......... let's just hope the lessons for this stage don't manifest onto the physical plane. I've had as much confrontation and hassle as I can take so far this year!

Update: As it turned out, a very isolated day for me. Emergency day's holiday, some health worries which have now been eased, and it was definitely a testing time mentally for me tonight! And definitely a new direction needed in some thought processes.

A fragile day

2010-02-22T23:04:00.001Z

Card of the day - Sunday 21st February 2010

Seer (Page) of Cups (World Spirit Tarot)

Now being a cups card you'd expect some kind of water, but there is so much on here, I think that's rather indicative of the amount that was drunk by the Group last night, and how much water needs to be drunk by us all, and myself specifically, today! She's sitting on her own with just the animal for company (yep that's the same for me), and I find this bit in the book very apt:

"yet fragile like the first buds of spring"

Oh god, am I feeling fragile today! Not going to be doing very much, sitting in isolation today with only Gem to tell me off for over-indulging ....... I don't even fancy eating which speaks volumes for my state ........ in fact, I think I'm just going to be drinking copious cups of tea, and sitting on my backside watching the movie channel, on low volume.

A fragile hangover day indeed!

Affirmation for the Week

2010-02-21T12:00:00.002Z

For this week's affirmation, I'm using one that I read over on Facebook ....... yep, that's right folks ....... Facebook even has an affirmations app!

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 22nd February 2010)

"LOVE IS THE ANCHOR IN MY LIFE"

We all have many things that we would take to be an anchor in our lives, be they children, parents, homes and even our jobs. However, what I'm thinking of this week is more along the lines of our emotions and inner selves!

We all absorb lessons from the moment we are born, every single day. Yep, even up to and including the very moment you've opened up your webpage to read this! And those lessons, especially the ones absorbed as children help us to live our lives, and react to events, circumstances and people around us on a totally subconscious level. Get a bad feeling about someone who just walked past? It could be that they're giving off a *don't come near me* energy, it could be that they're wearing a stocking over their face just having robbed a bank or it could be that something about them reminds you of a person who was nasty to you when you were a kid. And of course the opposite applies - see someone who looks like your loving Nanna, well you're more likely to think of them as kind and cuddly than an overzealous and ruthless bargain hunter shopper who wants to trip everyone up with their walking stick!

The thing is, we all have choices as we get older but let's be honest. How many choices do you really make that are done on automatic pilot? And if you really look at those choices, how many of them do you make out of love or fear?

We can do no great things;
only small things with great love.
~~ Mother Theresa ~~

So while people, events and even our jobs can be *anchors* ...... what really underpins everything is how we emotionally and subconsciously react to everything and everyone around us. Of course, I could be wrong ...... this is just my personal opinion.

But if there is a glimmer of truth in what I'm thinking and believing at present ....... then we can choose that solid place within that we operate from, the *thing* that we cling on to when the going gets rough ....... and what we jump up and down on when things are great and full of celebration. And what more deserving a platform than Love? Seeing with love, being with love, acting from love, thinking from love, feeling from love ....... and everything else that generates, like compassion:

Compassion is the basis of all truthful relationship:
it means being present with love—
for ourselves and for all life,
including animals, fish, birds, and trees.

Compassion is bringing our deepest truth into our actions,
no matter how much the world seems to resist,
because that is ultimately what we have to give this world
and one another.

~~ Ram Dass ~~

I know that when all is said and done, the overwhelming thing I would like to have that motivates me, moves me, causes me to act and react, feel, think and be .... is Love. I'm not daft enough to think I'm ever going to be able to achieve it 100 per cent., I'm human and here to learn many lessons ... but I do think it's a great thing to strive for, to be aware of (as much as possible) and I also deeply believe, that by having Love as an anchor within, it can also help to heal not only myself but others who's lives I interact with, and possibly affect.

This morning take a few minutes to reflect on how
you give of yourself to the world.
Often we get caught up in the frenzy of buying
and giving things. Look at the ways you give
appreciation, friendship, energy, time,
love, and affection, and give of your own
special talents and abilities throughout the year.
Acknowledge yourself for having enriched
the lives of others. Spend some time loving
yourself for the giving light that you are.
~~ Shakti Gawain ~~

This week's affirmation questions are as follows:

What is the current anchor you are operating from consciously?
What is the current anchor you are operating from un/subsconsciously?
How strong is love anchored in your life generally?
What can you do to strengthen or build more love into your life?
What benefit will this bring to you in the short-term?

Wishing you all a strong, centred and love-filled week :)
x Mouse

Knocking sense into me

2010-02-20T16:38:00.002Z

Card of the day - Tuesday 16th February 2010

Ten of Wands (World Spirit Tarot)

Fall-out, hiding, deluge, pressure. Home. Distance.

Drawn Monday night and then the volume next door seemed to escalate. It tooks ages to get to sleep. How does that relate to Tuesday though? Well, the thing is, I hate confrontation. I know most people don't like it, but I have a real thing with it ....... almost a fear. Just the thought of having to speak up for myself ........ which in turn would mean criticising someone else ......... actually makes my stomach go ........ and I not only feel queasy but shaky and upset ......... so yeah ....... there I am on the card, hiding away, covering my ears from the noise ........ and waiting for the dust to settle.

And all day I was stressing ........ and venting I'm afraid to say. But then I remembered this week's affirmation ......... and since I'm a firm believer in walking your talk ............ figured ok, stop the negativity ........ grasp the positivity. If I'm going to speak up for myself (which I was) then how can I best handle it (the fishwife approach when viewed from a detached point of view ..... yuck .... who would want to come across like that to anyone else)? "I look for the best in people" .......... well I wasn't doing that at first ....... but if I was to take that viewpoint ......... then the neighbour might not actually be aware of quite how loud or intrusive things were. From a best case scenario, they would be understanding and not mind me bringing the subject up!

So I knocked (a few times, the music was on & loud LOL) and kind of stammered my problem across (see ........ nerves, not what people who meet me face-to-face ever expect of me) and my neighbour was fine about it. No problem. And even said to let them know if it happened again!

So there you go, big test given, hopefully I passed ........... although sometimes, it would be nice if the lessons weren't shoving my own words back at me a lot of the time. That'll be the wands by the way ......... trying to knock some sense into me!

Wrong path?

2010-02-19T12:00:00.001Z

Card of the day - Sunday 14th February 2010

MANO - Shark (Hawaiian Oracle)

And so I come to the last card I'm pulling from this deck for the time being ......... and I have to say I'm not exactly impressed. Maybe the deck isn't pleased it's going back on the shelf for a while!

Sharks! SQUEEEEAK! And while the water looks all gorgeous and blue, especially with all that sparkly light at the surface, all I can see are those sharp sharp double-row of teeth! And the red/purple path next to him. Perhaps he's just eaten and that's the blood that's next to him.

Now I'm hoping that I'm going to be feeling much much better by Sunday, and definitely not emitting blood or anything else for that matter. I'm not planning on going out either, in fact I'm hoping for a nice quiet day, with lots of sleep and nice food (oh god, please let me have my appetite back by then).

However this card has Shark as a warning. *You're on the wrong path. Your subconscious ... is blocking you.* Great, that's just what I need to hear. Not quite sure at the moment what this refers to. Perhaps my method of meditation as I'm planning on participating in an online group meditation during the day. It also says *Kua also means 'ridge', and here the fisherfolk discovered a new view. The strength of Mano gives you the power to gain a new perspective on your emotions. Your feelings become part of your foundation, rather than your defining force.* I do have one thought as to what this may mean ......... and in that instance, yes, I chose the wrong action. However ....... how this will play into a daily card, when I'm not going to be speaking to anyone, remains to be seen! As I always say, time will tell.

Bacon sandwiches

2010-02-18T12:00:00.005Z

Card of the day - Saturday 13th February 2010

PUA'A - Pig (Hawaiian Oracle)

OK a new card ....... interesting. Pig .........well given I've not eaten very much over the past few days, this could denote a bit of an improvement and a return of my appetite. Greedy little piggy comes to mind!

Plans have very much changed for this weekend. I had originally hoped to be working overtime (no chance), had been invited out partying (just the thought makes me cringe), to popping round to see friends (nope, don't want to infect them), to having quiet chill out time. The last is what's definitely happening. Staying indoors and being alone in the safety of my castle! Well this card doesn't look crowded does it ......... no other visitors here ....... and although there's an opening at the back of the card ........ it doesn't look like it's very inviting to others. Given my friends have been asking how I am, I know they're not anxious to share in my germs either *grin*. One other image I thought very appropriate is the steam .......... I'm planning on getting my head over a bowl of hot water & eucalyptus oil over the course of the day ........ as well as foraging around to see what I can take to make me better! Given the flowers & greenery, I'm gonna take a wild guess and say that's definitely going to help!

I love this bit from the book *How do you treat your pig within? Do a ritual, make a home, plant some vegetables; for you need to connect more fully with Pua'a. Then, you will truly regain your Spirit.* Glad to hear it, because mine feels like it got up and went for a wander, with it yet to return!

As a side note: I always think I've treated my pig within very well actually. No matter how much I complain, it gets chocolate weekly (sometimes daily)!

Of course, this could also be a message that I need to have bacon sandwiches tomorrow ........... *grin*!

Journaling Prompt No.13

2010-02-17T12:00:00.003Z

I am wearing the .............. coat

Fey Tarot ......... 10 Pentacles

I am wearing the 10 of Pentacles coat ......... and what a luxurious coat it is. No, it's not made of gold, even though that pentacle looks large and is all shiny ........ and it's not worth a lot of money, even though it is, after all, a pentacle coat ........it's luxurious because instead of financial worth it has woven a thousand memories into it.

It has memories of hopes and dreams ....... of wishing on stars .......... of partying with friends ........ of staying up way past burning the midnight oil. It has brought warmth when the world has been cold (yes I know, that's normally what happens when partying past midnight LOL) ......... it has worn many different colours and textures ...... it's been used as a blanket, as a cover ........ and even been held onto as people talk and gather around it.

However, it's getting on a bit now and is almost to be retired ....... you see the little hedgehogs of use have been gnawing away at it for quite some time....... and so it does need its rest. The only question now is .......... where's the new coat ......... and what does it look like .......... because new things, when unknown, can be a little bit scary!

Open to the elements

2010-02-16T12:00:00.005Z

Card of the day - Friday 12th February 2010

Pearl Oyster - PIPI (Hawaiian Oracle)

Oh dear, yet again this little card popped it's head up! After getting home early on Thursday, getting some sleep and then getting up for an hour to (try and) eat and get my work stuff ready for the next day, I drew this for Friday! Great I thought .......... still going to be feeling pretty crap then .......... and since my ears/hearing had started to feel swollen and painful, I figured that's how it tied in with the last time I drew it ......... irritated by all the noise around, the commuting ......... and quite possibly I'd feel a bit of a crybaby at having to be out of my shell.

Just to be on the safe side, I figured I'd also pull a card to see how I'd fare at work if I felt so crap ........ and pulled a card from my Bartschi Lenormand ............ House! That left me wondering quite how bad I'd feel in the morning since I wasn't planning on staying at home!

As it turned out, that House card was very very apt! On getting up and then trying to get dressed for work, I felt so rough and awful, I knew I wouldn't make the train journey! You don't want to know the details but suffice it to say I spent most of the day upstairs ........ either in bed or in the bathroom. Whether it's one of the effects of the migraine or a stomach bug along side this flu thing I don't know ........... I do know I wasn't even going to attempt to open that front door!

Whilst the irritation aspect definitely covered the ears, I think for how this day went it was more appropriate to the whole body. The shell is open and anything can get in ......... well, no matter where I was or what I did, I wasn't comfortable and I hurt. Yep, I'm sure you can hear those violins playing ......... the pity party was in full swing and I was feeling extremely sorry for myself, all alone ........ no-one to look after me ........ all open & vulnerable.

Just remember with this card ............. it's shellfish ......... and some people can have very violent reactions to shellfish ........ especially involving their stomachs. Enough said!

Hold on tight!

2010-02-15T12:00:00.001Z

Card of the day - Thursday 11th February 2010

PUHI - Eel (Hawaiian Oracle)

I'm not too keen on this card I have to say. It's Wednesday night and I've been feeling pretty yucky for a couple of days. The rock looks like a tower that Eel is desperately holding onto ....... and he doesn't look to be happy at being in the light! The colouring isn't exactly making me feel any better either. Maybe the yoga will help!

Well, as it turned out, I was trying to hold onto that tower as I seem to have come down with some kind of viral bug. Not only did it make me feel as dizzy as hell, but that green colour could definitely indicate the feeling of sickness that sprung up over the course of the morning at work. Tuesday's headache lasted all the way through to Saturday ....... and even my appetite went. Snivelling, sneezing, painful movement and even hearing ........... yep Eel definitely looks (and I felt) uncomfortable, in pain and very very sensitive.

Oh, and the light thing ......... one thing with migraines ......... can't take bright lights ........ it's a case of draw the curtains, minimise noise and try to sleep!

Affirmation for the Week

2010-02-14T12:00:00.004Z

I had the opportunity recently to do something positive for someone else. Someone that I don't get on with. And given that I bleat on about looking for the positive about everything and everyone, having a cup half-full perspective, you'd think this would actually be an easy thing for me to do. It wasn't.

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 15th February 2010)

"I LOOK FOR THE BEST IN PEOPLE"

So did I actually give that person something positive? Unfortunately the answer is No. I didn't :( Instead my eyes were narrowed by my own thoughts and feelings which were totally prejudiced by past events. And while I don't think the person was that bothered (though I could be wrong about this), when I look back at the opportunity that I missed, I could definitely kick myself. Which brings to mind a saying that Cat told me a long time ago, and I had forgotten it until today:

Choose being kind over being right,
and you'll be right every time.
~~ Richard Carlson ~~

Now I'm not so blind as to think we all live in Utopia. There is a lot of crazy and bad and evil, nasty crap happening out there, but there is also a lot of good. And all that is being done, said and thought is by us, human beings. Each one of us has thoughts and feelings. Each one of us has hopes, dreams as well as fears. When it comes down to it, no matter where you are from, or what life circumstances you are enduring or have enjoyed, we all have much more in common than we have to differentiate ourselves from one another.

So moving forwards from this logic, if everyone is so similar to us, why do we so often automatically see the negative side of things in others? How can that be down to those "others", especially if we don't know them (either at all or very well)? Wouldn't it be logical to to assume that such negativity (either in action or thoughts or feelings) is because of our own issues, our own fears ........ in which case we can change that! Because we all have a choice. We can choose to see either the negative or positive in other people ......... in their behaviours and words ......... and this extends to how we view ourselves as well.

How beautiful a day can be
when kindness touches it!
~~ George Elliston ~~

Why not be kind? Why not look for the best in others, in yourself and in everything you do. We may not be able to do this 100 per cent. of the time because no human being is perfect. If we were, we'd have no challenges, no goals and life would be extremely boring! But how much nicer and more fun it is to help other people, be kind to other people and to see something positive that they can offer to the world. And if we get the chance to let them know about it, how wonderful that may be for them.

And this reminds of an article I read earlier in the day (the ezine from LLF of 9th Feb), an excerpt from Tom Walsh:

"That's simple: all I have to do is start being aware of my opportunities to give, my chances to contribute to this world in any way, no matter how small. Perhaps that smile and a greeting will brighten up another person's day in a small way--and many small contributions to this person's life may make a significant difference as time goes on.

A word of encouragement can be like a cool breeze on a hot day to many people. Not enough people receive encouragement on a regular basis, it seems, and if that fact is going to change, then the change needs to begin with us as we encourage people unconditionally to seek out their own dreams and hopes and aspirations, and to do as well as they can on their current tasks, be they at work, in the family, at school, or wherever else people can use encouragement.

When someone pays me a compliment, it sticks with me. For a long time. For not only has someone else noticed that I've done something well, but they've also taken the time to tell me that they've noticed. That means a lot to me. So I have to assume that when I compliment someone else sincerely, that compliment will mean something, even if it seems it doesn't. Perhaps it will be like a tiny twig that a bird brings to build its nest--the twig itself doesn't seem to mean much, but when it's put into place with many other twigs, it's very important."

So questions this week are:

How do you currently automatically view people?
What issues do you have that colour your view?
What mental change could you make to this?
What emotional change could you make to this?
What positive benefit (for all concerned) would these changes bring?

Wishing you all a wonderful and positive week ahead :)
x Mouse

Drink plenty of water!

2010-02-13T12:00:00.001Z

Card of the day - Tuesday 9th February 2010

ULILI - Sandpiper (Hawaiian Oracle)

This was the card that I drew on Monday for Tuesday's day ahead (I know, I'm seriously behind with posting these, but not only did I run out of time, but I've also been ill).

I put:

*Go picking in the sand, searching for that which nourishes ......... seek the titbits ........ college/learning ....... amongst all the information, seek out only that which is helpful/useful ......... water coming in ...... emotions ........ gentle ......... sparkles of light ......... comforting, protected ........ no need to be afraid*.

All of this definitely applied to my day and evening. There were definitely learning experiences and perhaps a gentle nudge or two from Spirit about my chosen behaviour :( .......... this card is full of light, it feels gentle ........ it feels kind. Not only are these attributes that can be given as gifts to other people, but also needed for the self. As is water. After the gym I felt atrocious, with a stinking headache that started .......... am currently putting that down to being dehydrated. I'm hoping it doesn't turn into a migraine. I've not had one of those for a long time and am not in a rush to re-experience one either!

New Deck Spread - The Hawaiian Oracle

2010-02-13T07:59:00.002Z

It's time for another deck ......... well you know that already because I've already posted once with it! This one is the wonderful Hawaiian Oracle and I figured I'd try and find out how we're going to get along. I've used it once before to read for someone, and the daily card that I recently blogged. So it's very much a new deck for me, and one that I have no knowledge about.

The Hawaiian Oracle

What do you have to teach me? ........ HULU - Hawaiian monk seal

Well now, what a lovely card to start with. Whenever I see seals appear they always make me think of the sabian symbols and the Selkie :) ........... given all the lovely light that is in this card, not just surrounding the seals but also in the sky ........ shows me that this deck will help me to see the connection ...... or rather feel it ......... between the heart and Spirit. There is also a thought that the Seals are heading towards that island in order to meet their partners and have their offspring ........ birthing, beginning anew ......... growth and the never-ending cycle of life, in all its' forms!

In actual fact, the challenge with this card is of *remembrance* with the way through that of *rhythm*, giving the gift of *immortality*. Hmmm, I definitely see that as talking about the connection with Spirit, although it also tells me I need to listen intuitively a lot more and relax .......... go with the flow.

The book also speaks of the mythology and that the seals do indeed go to the island to breed. And although there is too much in it for me to type up this bit really struck me, as I've been concentrating on clearing my chakras, and moving the energy a lot higher! This is good news!

*Manamana, the isles where the seals live, describes an energy centre above our head. It lies above those we are normally aware of.*

What do I have to do? ........ 'AUKU'U - Black-crowned Night Heron

Visually, what a contrast to the last card. From open ocean we move nearer shore ......... where the volcanic heat can be seen and felt. Whereas seals embrace the water and land ........ heron traverses water, earth and air, bringing in the much needed element of air! The fact he carries leaves shows that he is learning to feed himself, and has found greenery amongst all that fire. So a need to pick out that knowledge which I will carry forwards ........ and ignore that which won't help!

The challenge here is *separation*, with the way through *the leap* giving the gift of *transformation*. I think that ties in very well with the first card. If I need to let go ...... then surely that's of conscious beliefs and the illusion of control? Separation here would be from Spirit ......... and don't we all, when we come to this plane, feel separate from one another, not just seeing our difference from other species, but from other human beings. Let alone that spiritually we are all connected. The leap means to me a leap of faith. Belief. Now that is a challenge in itself ......... for someone who likes to have *proof* ...... it's a hellavu lot to ask someone to take a jump into the unknown without any! Transformation being the reward is great ........... but to what? ...... Guess I will need to just let go and try and trust .......... how hard can that be, right?

I like this bit best from the book *Auku'u represents a time of completion before a new branch sprouts from your trunk* and *Auku'u is associated with endings all over Polynesia* and that definitely sounds about right. So far, this year has all been about endings, hope there's not too many more around the corner!

What will our relationship be like? ........ 'IO - Hawk

And here's a card I absolutely love!!!!!! Hawk is very special to me, ever since I first heard him :) ........ the colouring here that of being in the middle of that volcanic fire! Transformation indeed if it means I can move that far inwards ....... or should that be upwards?

Hawk is known as the Visionary and is a messenger from Spirit. I read once that when Hawk shows up, he stays with you. So far this has been true for me and hopefully he'll stay in the future too.

The challenge given here is *earthly power* with the way through being *speaking what's true*. The resultant gift is *ascension*. Regardless of what mythology you read, Hawk seems to always appear when you need help in ascending or elevating your vibrational energy. And of course, being on the earthly plane, this is not an easy thing to achieve. The book also speaks of meditation and this is something I've returned to recently. My attempts have been rather sporadic over recent years and it's only now that I'm settling into more of a routine with it. Visualisation seems to be much easier than meditation ......... but meditation is the message I've been getting for quite a long time now, so I'm sticking with it at the moment!

Journaling Prompt No.12

2010-02-10T12:00:00.002Z

We haven't had any of these for a while so I thought it would be nice to bring some back for a little while ........ I hope you all can join in with them too :)

I kissed a frog and ...........

Fantastical Creatures ......... Knight of Swords

I kissed a frog and the Knight of Swords appeared. It was if it were a dream, for how could such a tiny little green frog be transformed into such a tall dark handsome stranger? There he was, astride his peacock ......... calm, collected ........ and even a little bit arrogant now I come to think about it! He didn't seem even a wee bit perturbed about the change in his shape. Nor did the peacock. In fact, he took the opportunity to have a rest and drink! The cheek!

*But wait* I called when he made as if to ride off into the distance ........ *Aren't you my handsome prince, come to rescue me?*

*No madam, I most certainly am not. Whilst I would normally rescue a fair maiden, in your case I cannot*.

The unfairness of it all swept across the barren landscape, bringing storm clouds aplenty. No, I am not upset. I am strong, I am capable, I too am a warrior, albeit more of a spiritual kind!

And then I looked down into the water at my feet which glistened amongst the pebbles, to find that my coat fluttered behind me in the stormy winds, the feathers glistening and fluttering in that wind ........ my turban blowing about my face ....... and the realisation struck that the water was merely a mirror ......... and the Knight and fair maiden were one after all.

Day 12 - Sacred Days - 31 Dec 2009

2010-02-09T12:00:00.002Z

Day 12 ......... 31 December

12. New Year's Eve, Hogmanay - Dec 31st

This card shows us how to release the old and let in the new. This relates to both our external lives and our inner being

Fantastical Creatures Tarot ........ Three of Cups

And last but by no means least we come to the last card. And what a one to have. Woo hoo! How appropriate yet again. New Year's Eve and it's party central :D The three of cups is often a card of partying, of connecting to friends and loved ones ......... of having a few drinks, playtime, fun and laughter. And all these things apply. My friends are my family and support system. We drink together, have fun together, chat together, eat together, cry together and love one another.

But there is also another side to this card. The 3 is an aspect of the Empress, the archetypal mother of the deck. And being of water, denotes a very emotional mother. This obviously can denote a mother on the physical plane, but here I'm looking at it as the Inner Mother. She who knows best, who wants to protect and support but who, on her bad days, can also hinder and become the smother mother :D While she is in balance all is well and good ............. but learning that is the key. So perhaps some old behaviour patterns still needing to be released before more fun can be had. I'm rather looking forward to finding that out :D

Day 11 - Sacred Days - 30 Dec 2009

2010-02-08T12:00:00.002Z

Day 11 ......... 30 December

11. Day of Rest: - Dec 30th

This card shows us how to walk our path in a relaxed and confident way....with the ability to deal with stressful situations in a philosophical, detached way.

Fantastical Creatures Tarot ........ Queen of Swords

Aha, and here she is ...... the High Priestess having fun :) ......... so I'm thinking with the imagery I need to get out into nature and for a dip at a spa or something LOL. This is the most wonderful card yet again for the positioning in the spread. Detached, philosophical ....... why these very words could have been conjured for a Queen of the mental realm :) The Queen is in command of her emotions and thoughts ....... indeed some may say she's a wee bit too logical ........ but unlike the King who is more action-based, the Queen is also of (and in pretty deep in this image) the water showing how in touch with her emotions she is, merging them with her thoughts. Logical yes, but intuitively so!

So how to apply this to the reality of my life? Take time out, rest physically and mentally. Find out where rejuvenates you, that's away from other people. Have your protective shield around you ........... cleanse often, with water will be beneficial. Meditate, commune with spirit, be in touch with nature and perhaps most importantly ......... allow your energy to flow freely, and use it to commicate from the heart.

What I find very interesting is one thing mentioned in the LWB *Use when you need a card to represent a formidable, strong-willed woman who has learned to cope with deep emotional loss*. The Queen of Swords very often gets a bad rap for coldness yet I've always associated her with someone who has either needed or undergone a lot of healing and who has a very soft heart ....... which one can find out only if one is worthy enough to get past her defences ;) And even though I would naturally be a Queen of Wands ........ I have always chosen the Swords Queen as my significator.

Affirmation for the Week

2010-02-07T12:00:00.001Z

I've been wondering about fear lately. We all have had it, probably have some of it lurking right now as we go about our daily business ...... and I'm pretty sure we're all going to have some of it in the future! So in that case ........ I doubt it's really that possible to eliminate it completely ....... in which case it can be used to learn some of our biggest lessons!

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 8th February 2010)

"I EMBRACE COURAGE"

Fears can be of varying sizes ....... from little everyday fears and worries such as forgetting to buy a certain item that we really need, to the biggies like losing someone we love. We might get scared of heights .......... nope, you're not likely to see a base-jumping or sky-diving mouse any time soon that's for sure! ....... of water ....... there are so many things in this world that people are scared of ........ the little would be's are endless ....... so do we allow these fears and/or worries to intimidate us? Probably yes! So what makes the difference between them inhibiting or paralysing us completely so as not to do things (like the base-jumping, no chance) ....... to actually getting off our backsides and doing them (like learning to windsurf, that was soooo scary!).

For me, at the moment (aren't these things always an evolving learning experience which can change with hindsight) ....... it's Courage.

Courage is actually listed as one of the personal moral qualities over at the BACP website (which I had to learn on a course). It states courage as "the capacity to act in spite of known fears, risks and uncertainty". Yep, that definitely encompassed the windsurfing! There was the known fear of feet not touching the bottom ...... the risk of drowning (ok probably not that high a risk, but still ....... feet not touching bottom & water & bad swimmer = danger danger danger!) and uncertainty (of being rescued ..... low risk, probably higher of getting a sea urchin sting!). Oops, going off tangent and into my own world there for a moment ............ but I found the thought of it scary as hell. Let alone standing on board, trying to pull the bloody sail up, scraped knees, in pain and wanting to cry when I couldn't get it right, and repeatedly landing in the water on painful pebbles, stones and avoiding the poxy sea urchins! Definitely a learning experience.

Sorry ... back on track ..... capacity to act .......... or as I like to phrase it, the title of Susan Jeffers' book ....... Feel the fear and do it anyway! So why have courage? Why try and embrace it? Well don't you think life would be much less interesting if we didn't challenge ourselves? We could miss out on so much ........ seeing things, doing things, travelling to places, trying new things, meeting new people ........ again, the list is endless. And of course, there is a train or school of thought that our lives here on Earth are those of being in school. We are here, now, to learn. Our souls/spirit are ever-evolving. To *grow* and be *more* ....... well, you're not gonna get that doing the same thing day in, day out, year in year out, are you?

Courage doesn't always roar.
Sometimes courage is the quiet voice
at the end of the day, saying,
"I will try again tomorrow."
~~ Mary Anne Radmacher ~~

And like this quote infers, just because we try something new, doesn't mean we're always going to get it right. Very often we won't. But each time we try we will learn a little bit more. After spending so many hours trying to windsurf, there was growth and change. The very first moment of getting just the board in the water and trying to stand on it, keeping my balance on it ....... to how it felt at the end of my time on holiday, these were very different to each other. If I go back to trying to learn it again, I will expect to start at the beginning, but the difference the next time will be my fears will have been diminished. Practice makes perfect is also a saying ......... very often we have to make lots of mistakes, and fail lots of times until we *get it* ....... whatever that *it* may be for an individual. So like Mary Anne Radmacher says ........ it's the getting up and doing it again and again and again. Trying, attempting ...... and hopefully the fears lessen. Taking baby steps, as I like to phrase it :)

Courage is required not only in people’s occasional crucial decision for their own freedom, but in the little hour-to-hour decisions which place the bricks in the structure of their building of themselves into people who act with freedom and responsibility.
~~ Rollo May ~~

Questions for this week's affirmation are:

How would you describe your *courage*?
What limitations do you think you have with courage?
What one thing could you choose to do to embrace more courage?
How would this change your courage?
What overall effect could you see this as having on your current life?

Wishing you a courage-filled week ahead :)
x Mouse

Weekend mornings ......... do not disturb!

2010-02-06T19:30:00.003Z

Card of the day - Saturday 6 February 2010

PIPI - Pearl Oyster (Hawaiian Oracle)

After drawing this on Friday night and giving it a cursory glimpse, recognising that the one time I have used this deck before, I had drawn this, I thought there would be some tests ahead. I didn't realise they'd start so early though.

As in early in the morning. Before 8.00 a.m. On a Saturday. You know .......... one of the very few days that I don't have to get up early for work, that I can have a bit of a lie-in ........ that, if I have a late night I don't have to worry about how knackered I'm going to be. Which I now am.

This pearl is open ...... the shell or rather the home is open to the elements ....... one of which is noise. Now I like music, I especially like chill-out music .......... what I don't like is when I hear it through my walls and it actually wakes me up because a neighbour has it playing in their bedroom! One of the downsides of living in a terrace is the walls aren't soundproof. Like I say, I don't normally mind but not at that time in the morning. So, not thinking straight .......... just being completely irritated the door got slammed because I knew that would be heard. Silence :) ............. and then within a couple of minutes the music started again. *Growl*. Cue swearing ............. music still playing ............ cue getting up and thumping downstairs ......... still music .......... more doors banging, more swearing .......... nope, didn't make a blind bit of difference.

So since I was pretty sure I wasn't going to get back to sleep, I took some stuff to the skip. Might as well get something out of being up so early! Music was still playing when I got back (and slammed the door pretty damn loud).

I know the irritation is really a lesson in disguise. My neighbours are actually pleasant to speak to, and I don't generally have any hassle from them ......... I'm ignoring the incidents of their cat getting in and spraying everywhere, more than once, cos they hadn't spayed him ........... and knowing that it's a lesson should ensure I be alert to such things, and temper my reactions accordingly. As in don't door slam, don't swear ....... don't choose to be irritated, annoyed, angry and bloody damn mad.

Only ........ at that time in the morning you can't think straight ........ well I can't. I'm so not a morning person it's unreal. Happy smiley coherent people first thing in the morning are not normal to me, that's like total freaky behaviour *shudder*. And if you can't think straight, you're gonna react straight from what's been wired into your harddrive! And in my case ............ it was loud, it was vocal ....... and it wasn't pleasant.

Please the gods, the angels, the spirits and anything else out there, please let me have a peaceful lie-in tomorrow ....... and if that's not to be the case ......... please let me deal with it in a calm and graceful manner. I intend to knock calmly on their door and ask them to turn it down quietly ......... or to write a polite note asking for some consideration (probably the easy way out and probably the one I'd choose) ......... instead of banging on their door, shouting for them to turn their goddamn music down and showing some f**king consideration for others ......... which is the scene that has been playing out in my mind all day!

Weekends ....... they should have a "Do Not Disturb" sign hung on them!

Gremlin alert!

2010-02-05T14:00:00.001Z

Card of the day - Thursday 4 February 2010

Clear Yourself (Angel Therapy cards)

*Ask the angels to release any toxic energies that you may have absorbed*

I'd drawn this card pretty late on Wednesday night, just flipping it over before I went to bed. Thereby completing forgetting about it. Until I got home tonight and went to type up Monday's card, and saw it lying there. Instant thought of *well that explains a lot*!!

As is usual, many dreams last night but I woke from the last one and kept snoozing the alarm, dipping in and out of it. It wasn't great and left a pretty yucky feeling of not being able to get motivated, have any energy and a bit of a *down* feeling. I then missed the train and when I eventually got to work had a mad rush on, because I was slightly late. Then the lethargy really hit. No gym at lunchtime, just about managed to get my homework journal done .......... before getting myself back down the train station.

Now I don't know if I was just absorbing energy from others around me on the way home, but by the time I got to the station, I felt absolutely awful, so much so I thought I was going to burst into tears. For the next 10 minutes I had to concentrate really hard on some shielding and then reading so as to distract from anything that was around. It worked and by the time I got home I felt much better.

This is actually something I always mean to do, and always always always forget to do. Not good, especially if I'm trying to open up my energies and vibrational level! Lesson learnt. Watch out for Gremlins!

So, having typed that up, having a quick look at the little book to see if it corresponds with my thoughts ......... * This card comes to you because the angels see that you're carrying some lower energies. Because of your high sensitivity and compassion, you may have absorbed this negativity from other people's fears. These toxic energies may have also sprung from your own past fears*.

Great, no wonder I felt so crap. Double whammy, my own stuff compounded by others. Guess what I'll be concentrating on during the journey to work Friday morning!

Eat your greens!

2010-02-04T21:52:00.003Z

Card of the day - Monday 1 February 2010

Vegetarian/Vegan (Angel Therapy cards)

*Fresh organic fruits and vegetables give you a boost of high life-force energy, which elevates your spiritual frequency*

I have recently started to try (cough splutter) to reduce my sugar intake ....... not just in the form of sugar in drinks (of which I drink copious amounts), but also in chocolate bars (yorkies and wispa *snivel*) and also cakes .......... but come Sunday, I still succumbed to the last chocolate bar in the house. Yeah I know, I shouldn't buy them in the first place .......... but honestly, you should see the way they frogmarch me to the till!!!!

So no surprise then on the Sunday night that I drew this for Monday. A swift telling off no doubt for all that lovely sugary intake. So knowing this, I was actually really really good and .......... I know you won't believe this ........ but, no cake, no chocolate and a reduced amount of sugary drinks! I must admit I felt rather proud of myself *grin* ........... until the next day, but I don't think I'm up to admitting the cake count just yet!

So the LWB does state "Most likely you've intuitively heard this message from your guardian angels, who ask you to honour your body and spiritual path by only ingesting high-vibrating foods and beverages"

I have to say, this is quite right. I've been thinking, and intending to cut down on stuff, and most especially my love for white sugar. What I don't think is fair is when something that is soooooooooo good, isn't supposed to be good for you. After all, if a wispa bar makes you happy, that lightens your heart ........ which in turn will raise your energy vibration. Or maybe that's just my logic speaking ;)

Affirmation for the Week

2010-01-31T12:00:00.001Z

Hard to believe that we're already finished with January. It usually feels like a very long month, dragging it's heels as we start a new year, eagerly waiting for longer days, more sunshine and Summer, but this year ........ this year January seems to have raced by. Mind, I wasn't saying that when it was snowy and icy and I was trudging to the train station on said ice, desperately trying not to fall over!

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 1st February 2010)

"I ENJOY SPRING CLEANING"

Today is also Imbolc, which is a time for purification and celebration of the spring that is about to come. It is a time of awakening and the stirring of the new growth that is spring and apparently gave rise to the tradition of Spring Cleaning!

I don't know about anyone else, but I for one, sure as hell don't feel especially motivated to get off my backside and start proper spring cleaning, blitzing and clearing and getting fresh air in everywhere. Nope, I would much rather be nestled under a cosy warm throw, snuggled up on a comfy sofa watching a film ....... preferably lazing while staying in my pj's over the weekend! Oh, and of course eating chocolate or cake. Basically any stodgy food is good right now :D. Because it's still very cold, it's still dark when I get home from work and I still feel like I'm in the midst of winter ....... yes I know, for those further up the Northern Hemisphere, winter truly is Winter, as opposed to the very few weeks of snow that we in the UK have had.

But, like the affirmation of "I Declutter" ...... which I've just checked back on as I type this one out ...... how amazing, that was for Monday 2nd February last year and ties in very well with this one :D .... it's good for the home, for the soul, and for energy, to blitz your way through your home and get some sparkle and light back into the place after months of darkness.

And of course, in reality, this doesn't have to just apply to the physical act of cleaning our homes and/or gardens. It can be our emotional state, our mental state, our physical or even spiritual state. It can apply to our activities, our food and our relationships. Yes we can also declutter at this time, and actually, I think when it comes to physically cleaning things, we automatically declutter a little bit because we end up examining all the stuff we have hoarded and no longer use.

And enjoy? Why would we enjoy such a task? Well I would ask in return, why not? Think of what actually getting up and doing something brings to you ....... motivation, energy, that feel-good factor of achievement ......... so what if it's only for clearing a windowsill or cupboard ..... it's still an achievement. Being pro-active, embracing change, looking how to brighten one's life and self, and seeing the positive in things ....... surely these are all good things that can bring benefit to peoples' lives. There is also the aspect of looking at one's possessions with fresh eyes ......... is it still wanted, needed, useful .......... and seeing the memories that certain things bring to mind ....... and putting the sparkle into the things you will keep, and removing the things you don't! I think that process can be rather enjoyable, especially when they bring up great memories :)

If one changes internally, one should not continue to live with the same objects. They reflect one's mind and psyche of yesterday. I throw away what has no dynamic, living use. I keep nothing to remind me of the passage of time, deterioration, loss, shriveling.
~~ Anais Nin ~~

So questions for this week are:

What area needs the most spring cleaning in your life?
What is the grime that covers it?
What has caused such grime/darkness?
What can you do to bring some sparkle/light back in?
What positive effect will such "spring cleaning" bring to you?

Wishing you all a sparkly & enjoyable week ahead :)
x Mouse

Wishing upon a Star

2010-01-30T11:53:00.008Z

I finally got my Fairy Tale Tarot deck back in September and have been using it ever since in conjunction with my rather sporadic attempts at meditation! Fantastic!! As with Lisa's other decks, the artwork just blows you away and I'm particularly enjoying reading about fairy tales from other countries that I'd never heard of as a child.

Anyway, for a change, I thought I'd use them for last Monday's affirmation as I thought they'd be perfect for the subject of wishes :)

Affirmation Spread - 25 January 2010

Deck - Fairy Tale Tarot

How does thinking about *wishing upon a star* make you feel inside? - 10 Swords

It makes me think that anything is possible, that I can go anywhere, do anything ........ it takes me out of my current existence and sends me on a mental journey of possibilities. It also shows that my wishes are not to do with where I am currently in my life on this earth ....... since I'm leaving that far far below me. There is, of course, the other side of the coin .......... that I think it's all a lot of hot air floating around *grin*.

Coming back to the card a second time - let's also not forget that wishing is very often *thinking outside the box* but for me this chest is a treasure chest. It's the one where we hold our secret hopes and dreams, which we normally have hidden away and guarded under lock and key. After all, if people knew our hopes & dreams or fears, then they could hurt us. It would leave us vulnerable. That's definitely one thing I have been aiming for but didn't realise was a secret wish ........... being able to open up to others without fear of being hurt, showing the treasure of my soul and having it accepted. Hmmm, interesting.

What hidden wishes are you currently hiding or unaware of (if any)? - 4 Wands

Well when I saw this I automatically thought of either building a new home, or family celebrations. Both would be definitely hidden because I'm not expecting family celebrations. Or rather, I know that they're going on, it's just I'm not participating. There is also the possibility, given the imagery, that I want ascension ...... as in being able to climb higher in personal and spiritual growth. This is definitely true so I'm not sure if that's really the answer I'm looking for. The problem with something that we're unaware of, or hiding subsconsciously is that it's bloody difficult to work out what it is *grin*.

So let's look at this from a logical point of view to see the possibilities .......... house, home, growth, stability, security, money/treasure, food (beans), obstacles (mountains), ascenscion, connection (bird & ladybird), spirit (wands), passion, energy.

I think that most people would want most of these things and wouldn't say No to them, especially the ability to overcome any obstacles and have a fruitful life. So at the moment I'm sticking with my original thought, that of ascension & growth and trying to overcome my fears (a little mouse climbing a big beanstalk, who is afraid of heights and giants ........... not easy).

How do you currently send your wishes and hopes out into the Universe? - King of Pentacles

Yes, I do sit there and try to send my hopes & dreams out from a loving heart-filled space. I also tell my Guides/helpers/angels what I would like. And given the imagery here, it's pretty obvious they've heard me LOL. Let's just hope that's magic dust he's going to sprinkle to help them come true eh :)

On coming back to this card, I'm also struck by her red dress. Red can denote, amongst other things, blood, our life-force as well as our root chakra. I do try to be as practical as possible in my *wishes* ........ while it's nice to have hopes & dreams, if we want them to come true, we have to be able to believe we're going to get them right! The only problem for me here, is the coldness. Snow and ice equals frozen water. Frozen emotions. It's great that the ice on the river has started to crack, but it looks to me as if there's a hellavu lot of work still to be done to get everything green and growing!

Is there anything you need to let go, in order for a wish to be fulfilled? - Lovers

Stop dithering and just do it. Make a choice and then go for it. The other possibility here is that I am sitting within my own cage. Built of self-defence mechanisms. The only problem if that's the case, is how to recognise those mechanisms in order to get rid of them! There also needs to be balance between the feminine and masculine. I still pretty much react more assertively than is necessary, for a lot of the time. I've gotten better as I've learnt lessons on this path, but still .......... when painful situations occur ....... there is an instinctive knee-jerk reaction that I am working on improving and softening.

On coming back to the card, I'm also struck by the compartmentalisation. All the birds had been isolated from one another, no interaction whatsoever. Birds follow their group, they *flock together*. Given the wings the lady has on her back here, there seems to be a need to realise that yes, we are all One. She is part bird herself and is releasing parts of herself ........ which will make her whole.

Great, now I can hear in my head the Atomic Kitten song "Whole Again" ........ guess that means that's the necessary message from the card for me right now!

"Whole Again"

If you see me walking down the street,
Staring at the sky and dragging my two feet,
You just pass me by,
It still makes me cry but you can make me whole again.

And if you see me with another man laughing and joking doing what I can,
I won't put you down, 'cause I want you around,
'cause you can make me whole again.

[Chorus:]
Looking back on when we first met,
I can not escape and I can not forget,
Baby, you are the one
You still turn me on,
You can make me whole again.

Time is laying heavy on my heart
Seems I've got too much of it since we've been apart,
My friends make me smile if only for while,
You can make me whole again.

[Chorus]

For now I'll have to wait,
But, baby, if you change your mind don't be too late,
'cause I just can't go on,
It's already been too long,
But you can make me whole again.

Wooooooooooooooooooooooo

[Chorus x2]

Ooh, baby, you're the one,
You still turn me on,
But you can make me whole again.

What baby step can you take to help yourself achieve a wish? - Fairy Godmother (Empress)

Hahahaha, oh my, what a card to get. I can't stop grinning. I mean, how perfectly do these cards match these questions, and most especially this one.

See the bounty around you, focus positively (more than I have been doing that's for sure) and BELIEVE. Yep, I think that's pretty much a biggie that is necessary. Belief reinforces the intent and sends out that positive energy for things to happen. Believe that my fairy godmother is working for my higher good, and will produce the necessary goods. Only thing is, as we all know from the fairy tale, the Fairy Godmother didn't actually make everything work out the way it did, she merely provided the equipment for Cinderella to work with. So, what tools is she actually giving me. That's another one I need to work out!

And on return to the card, I also love how those birds, released from the Lovers card, are now flying around Cinderella and helping Fairy Godmother to weave her magic. How wonderful too, that the day I finish typing this spread up and posting it, is a Full Moon day.

I have to say I'm really pleased with how these questions/spread worked out, and how appropriate and vocal this deck is. I hope others who also have this deck are having as much fun with it as I am :)

Day 10 - Sacred Days - 29 Dec 2009

2010-01-27T12:00:00.002Z

Day 10 ......... 29 December

10. Day of Nymphs - Dec 29th

This card encourages us to connect to our playful side, our inner child and how best to cultivate this aspect of ourselves.

Fantastical Creatures Tarot ........ The High Priestess

Let's be honest here, the High Priestess is a grown-up and while I'm sure she, like everyone else has a sense of humour and playful side, she keeps everything so locked in that we don't get to see it. She is the keeper of secrets, mysteries and knowledge. She has much wisdom and experience. But you're hardly likely to see her frolicking in the garden, getting down & dirty in daylight like the Empress is more likely to do! So what does she advocate here? Hiding our inner child? Quite the contrary actually with this imagery :) ............. she stands in a pool of light .......... and has wings!

Put down your learning, your books, your scriptures .......... turn away from the blackboard once in a while! We're not asking you to go out and fry under sunlight since you love the Moon so much ......... instead, embrace that which you love ........ and go play by moonlight! Realise you have wings and can fly anywhere you wish under cover of darkness! You are strong, flexible and have many attributes ............ enjoy them, relish them ........... play with them! Follow the signs that beckon .......... and look in the mirror once in a while ......... see the best in yourself that we can already see in you :)

Ha, just had a thought - go buy some Red Bull ....... that's supposed to give you wings LOL!

Day 9 - Sacred Days - 28 Dec 2009

2010-01-26T12:00:00.004Z

Day 9 ......... 28 December

9. Feast of Alcyone: - Dec 28th

This card gives us a personal inner message - one that speaks directly to our heart and spirit.

Fantastical Creatures Tarot ........ King of Wands

I believe this card has several messages for me :) ....... or rather that is I'm hoping it does LOL. First one, I'm not putting on here, as it's very personal. Sorry about that *grin*.

The next is that this may very well be a guide that I am to connect with. Powerful and strong, he will be there for me, he will protect me. Getting out into nature will help in connecting with him. Nature will also provide lessons in working on seeing auras. Or rather seeing them in more detail since, with enough quiet time, I can see the white outline around things.

And the other is to not be afraid to spread my own wings! Own your power Mouse and stand up strong when under the spotlight. It's what you were born to learn ........ and eventually do!

Speaking up

2010-01-25T12:00:00.002Z

Card of the day - Saturday 23 January 2010

Throat Chakra (Angel Therapy cards)

*The angels are helping you lovingly speak your truth*

Nice card, and very gentle image :) I'm actually planning on a very quiet weekend, if I get up early enough maybe take some stuff down the tip before dropping the car off at the garage on the way back. And apart from picking it up, not expecting any conversations. Nor am I expecting anyone round. There is a possibility I'll be doing a reading for a couple of friends, in which case, as always, I hope I will be speaking from the heart. Whilst readings can bring up painful issues that clients/querants can have trouble coming to terms with, I think that most of the time I've dealt with things quite sensitively (unfortunately I can still remember a couple of times where I had foot in mouth disease or hit reply instead of forwarding some thoughts to a close friend for their thoughts - that was so not good at the time, and I still cringe). Perhaps too, a message for me to not hide anything that may come up in a reading either.

Of course, I could always end up receiving a phone call and being asked my opinion on something where I'd be much more comfortable sitting on the fence. Hmmmm, in that case I hope this is talking about readings!!!!

OK let's see if the LWB has anything different to add. I'm only going to add the bits I think may be relevant.

*To yourself, admit your true feelings as well as any revelations you've had. ... [sic] ... When you squelch your truth because of fears of disapproval , your throat chakra tightens and darkens. Prior experiences (in this life or past) of being punished for speaking up can also close this energy center.*

Oh crap! I really try not to swear on my blogs as I don't think it sounds that nice (regardless of how much I do swear *in real life* LOL) but .............. crap!!!!!! I hope my chakra is a lot lighter these days. It used to be excessively dark :( ........ and then when fear could no longer contain it, I smoked to burn anything that wanted to come up. When I stopped smoking, ....... yep you guessed it .......... I shoved food down it instead ....... solar plexus hit as well .......... two for one ;) ........ time to let go and speak up!

Right, I think I need to get a stash of chocolate and make a hidey hole to retreat to, just to be on the safe side ;)

Update: Ate the chocolate stash, enjoyed the hidey hole! Had some readings to do, one of which was for someone I've not read for before. A great experience and hopefully it was sensitive to their needs, but I also made sure I said what floated into my mind, without too much bluntness :)

Affirmation for the Week

2010-01-24T12:00:00.001Z

Wishing. In some ways, I guess we all wish, for most of the time. But as adults, I suppose it's different to how most people used to wish as children, which I realised as I read the DailyOm's message for the day.

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 25th January 2010)

"I WISH UPON A STAR"

There is a lot written these days about the Law of Attraction, and how if you wish for something, you're sending out the message that you are needing that item/hope/dream ....... thereby attracting to yourself more of that *need* and not the actually end result. Whilst I personally do believe in the energy of thoughts and what you send out, comes back to you ..... I do think it's not as cut and dried as some things I've read about the Law of Attraction (which isn't a lot actually).

Instead, isn't it rather wonderful to believe in dreams and to send your wishes out into the universe? Just saying *I wish upon a star* makes me think of a child looking up to the night sky and being in awe at the amount of stars that can be seen against a dark velvet blue backdrop ......... although these days, light pollution does tend to block a lot of them out :( ......... and doesn't it also invoke a sense of magic and wonder ......... and yes, feelings too of childhood and innocence, and of hope. I think those are pretty great feelings to have actually :)

The world needs people like you to dream of something
great and then pursue it with all your heart.
~~ Chris Widener ~~

The excerpt follows, and I do hope you can join us, for at least this week, in wishing upon a star; believing that anything is possible ........ and that dreams can come true if you only but think of them :)

"January 15, 2010
Wish
A Magical Mind

From blowing dandelion seeds into the air to throwing a penny into a fountain, we have all felt inspired to make a wish, to whisper our secret desires into the ears of the universe and wait for signs that we have been heard. Some wishes come true while others remain ethereal visions that either stay with us or fade like a star in the light of morning. Whether they come true or not, wishes are important missives, expressing our heart’s desire as well as our intention to create something new in our lives. When we wish for something, our consciousness opens to receiving it, like a flower unfolding its petals to receive a bee.

There is something innocent and magical about making a wish, something that recalls the energy of childhood. Wishing is not about formulating a plan and following it step by step to attain a goal, which is the realm of adulthood. Wishing is more like a playful volley across the universe, an invitation to play. Waiting for the response is an integral part of the process. Wishing inspires an innocent opening to the possibility of magic as we wait to see if the invisible realm will bring our wish to life. This opening is a beautiful gesture in and of itself, regardless of the outcome. We place ourselves in a magical mind, and this mind is arguably as wonderful as the fulfillment of our wish itself.

In our straightforward, action-oriented society, we may tend to dismiss the power of this seemingly passive process, yet the power of a wish is well known, hence the cautionary phrase, “Be careful what you wish for.” If you have given up wishing in favor of more adult pursuits, you might want to bring its magic back into your life. The next time you see the first star of the evening, or find yourself in front of a birthday cake covered in flaming candles, give yourself the gift of the magical realm that you knew so well as a child—close your eyes, open your mind, and make your wish."

As usual, we have some affirmation questions for you:

How does thinking about *wishing upon a star* make you feel inside?
What hidden wishes are you currently hiding or unaware of (if any)?
How do you currently send your wishes and hopes out into the Universe?
Is there anything you need to let go, in order for a wish to be fulfilled?
What baby step can you take to help yourself achieve a wish?

If you use cards with these questions, please do come back and share with us what they've revealed to you ....... I've very often found that the answers I would normally give can be quite different to what the cards may reveal!

Wishing you all a wonderful and magical week ahead :)
x Mouse

Day 8 - Sacred Days - 27 Dec 2009

2010-01-23T12:00:00.001Z

Day 8 ......... 27 December

8. Birth of Freyja: - Dec 27th

This card points to issues of love, luck, artistic and creative expression and female wisdom.

Fantastical Creatures Tarot ........ Three of Swords

Luck you say? Luck?! How is it lucky that I've managed to claw my way out of this hellhole? Have you seen the state of me? Look at all those wretched faces behind .......... and the thing that kept me in its swamp! Yucky, dirty, grimy, sticky. Next you'll be calling me Gollum! Hard, that's what it's been. Bloody hard. One minute I was minding my own business and the next I was struggling to survive, to breathe even. Further in I kept getting dragged until I didn't know which way to turn or how to find my way out. As you can tell, it's been a long time, even my hair has grown excessively long! I wasn't this light when I entered the swamp mind you ......... I had a lot of baggage, as well as those two swords I'm leaving behind. What are they? One is the view that certain people had of me that I carried around. The other is the view of myself that I carried around. They opposed each other, fought each other ......... and created a stalement. In reality they were just old preconceptions. And I eventually realised I'd have to leave them behind if I ever wanted to get out of here! Ah look, there's a new shiny sword up ahead ......... I wonder what that will reveal?

The old self has been left behind, the murkiness and depths of pain have been travelled through. While these are not looked upon as good things generally, they are cleansing, and ultimately healing. They promote change and growth. Which means that whatever new things are looming (like that Ace of Pentacles ;)) ............ our Gollum is not only willing but physically capable of grasping it within his hands!

Day 7 - Sacred Days - 26 Dec 2009

2010-01-22T12:00:00.001Z

Day 7 ......... 26 December

7. Yuletide, Kwanzaa: - Dec 26th

This card shows us how to express nurturance, to attend to our families and to express the protective energy within us towards others.

Fantastical Creatures Tarot ........ Ace of Pentacles

This card I should pay particular attention to, because it's a JUMPER! Woo hoo. And what a brilliant card to demand such attention :) This is telling me (as far as I'm aware at the moment) that I need to make a fresh start. For myself. For my needs. For my future. The house is quite a bit in the distance so our little fae has travelled quite some distance, which is very true for me as I live quite a long distance from my blood family. Thankfully I have made a home in a different town for myself, with wonderful and supportive friends that I love very much (not that I'd say it quite so bluntly to their faces of course - fae can be very shy you know) and who are my spiritual family :) I think and feel that this card is showing I've done the right thing and it's not so much that I've turned my back on my family (though they may disagree), it's more that I've done what I've felt is right for me, and of course by picking up those apples, I am harvesting the results from my own actions.

So how does that equate to me saying I need to make a fresh start? With the journeying and putting down of roots, I now have security. And although physical security is often an illusion, it shows that by getting to this stage I am ready for something new. In the physical world. And I have all the elements at my disposal.

Interestingly enough, as I picked up the LWB to see what kind of fae this is, it fell open at the correct page :) ...... turns out he is a brownie *woo hoo* because brownies always make me think of the sabian symbols ........ and I love the fact that the brownies are speaking. The divinatory meaning includes new home, job or relationship ......... and receiving help with a problem! So this is wonderful and doubly so since it jumped at me!!! Now I keep getting messages from readings and dreams about my job ending ......... which I pray is not the case as I'd lose my home! That wouldn't be good. So I'm hoping instead that it's a new relationship ......... although that could also lead to many new changes as well. Whatever it is, so long as it's positive .......... bring it on! :)

Protection

2010-01-21T12:00:00.003Z

Card of the day - Wednesday 20 January 2010

Shield Yourself (Angel Therapy cards)

*Protect yourself from harsh or fear-based energies by envisioning a cocoon of healing light surrounding you*

OK, second time round for drafting this! Computer crashed on me just as I'd finished the last sentence grrrrr! And for the life of me I can't remember what it was, I was going to type on Monday night. It's now very very late Tuesday, I've had a pretty crap day overall and then come home to yet more crap. Yep oh woe is me!

So looking at the stance here and of the words, it does make me wonder exactly what else is going to go wrong. Not exactly your most positive way of looking at things is it! Looks like I need to do some more protective visualisations/meditations but I have to say on looking at that shield, is that a picture painted on it, or a reflection? I'm more inclined to see it as a reflection at present and that also gives me pause for thought .......... Lion clinging on for dear life ...... that would be me alright. And while this Angel (Michael?) looks ready for battle, I'm hoping he's come to help. Let's have a look at the LWB!

*The angels brought this card to you because of your heightened sensitivity to energies. This sensitivity means that you may inadvertently absorb other people's energies, which may make you feel tired, unfocused, or upset. Just as you wouldn't walk outdoors in a rainstorm without an umbrella, it's important to use an energy umbrella in the face of any emotional downpour.

If you feel negative energy - or people are arguing, competing, or using frightening words - its vital for you to shield yourself. ... [sic] ... You can also ask Archangel Michael to guard you from lower energies, and you can even *borrow* his shield as a protective buffer*.

Yep, knew it. He's one of the stalkers LOL! Very glad to hear he's on my side. I think I'll be trying to ensure my protective shield continuously from tonight and all through Wednesday! Fingers crossed, this is all due to the current stuff I've got going on, and nothing else new!

Update: Yep, very bad day! Tried as much as possible to visualise shields and light, but to be honest I rather quickly gave in to comfort eating instead :D ....... there was birthday chocolate at work, and then scones with jam and clotted cream .......... I succumbed! *Grin*. And yeah, definitely clinging on ....... to my temper for starters, to try and not swear ........ to not want to strangle people, and to not feel upset at others' behaviour! Even my gym class got cancelled. One thing I found very interesting ..... as I was typing out the original post after drawing the card (before update) was that one of the words I kept misspelling. And that word I seemed to keep trying to type was someone's name ........ some of the issues I've been dealing with on Wednesday are definitely connected to that person! I also love how it mentioned heightened sensitivities, as I was chatting to a friend via email about something and it seems I was seeing clearly ........ in a different way to what I expected clair-voyance to actually mean. Rather happy about that :)

Second day of Fear

2010-01-20T12:00:00.001Z

Card of the day - Tuesday 19 January 2010

Vacuum Away Fear (Angel Therapy cards)

*Call upon Archangels Michael and Raphael to lift fear-based energy from you, your surroundings, this situation and everyone involved*

Oh crappy crap crap! I shuffle well and draw randomly, so what are the odds of drawing the same card two days in a row!

All I can think of right now is that I will have some kind of issue at college, or there's going to be some worry, ie. insecurities. In fact this looks like a right kick up the backside to make sure I stay focussed on my positivity. Maybe something new is going to be asked of me, or I'll be learning something that I don't *get* straight away ........ I do find that kind of thing frustrating. Oh well, time will tell.

Update: Yep, more of those worries & insecurities, added to which more hassle with home appliances, and although I don't think I am struggling, suddenly my head feels as if I don't understand college criteria. Lots and lots of little things that are starting to build up like straw on a camel's back!

A fear-filled day

2010-01-19T12:00:00.004Z

Card of the day - Monday 18 January 2010

Vacuum Away Fear (Angel Therapy cards)

*Call upon Archangels Michael and Raphael to lift fear-based energy from you, your surroundings, this situation and everyone involved*

Wow. I'm starting to wonder if these guys are stalkers LOL!! Given the title of the card, I'm wondering what kind of situation is going to rear it's head on Monday, if fear will be present! And as I look at this card (it's on the desk in front of me) without bending over ........ I first of all thought that was blood on his t-shirt ........ and smeared across his inner wings! EEK. Instantly I hope there's no safety alerts in the City, or anywhere else for that matter. With everything that's going on in Haiti right now, the world really doesn't need any more terrorist threats!

Have to say I'm not feeling too happy with drawing this card. And I get a thought floated by in my head of *he who is righteous*. Well it's late and I'm tired (Sat night) and I've just watched a rather depressing film on Cable, so hopefully that's influenced my feeling.

A fear-filled day? I really hope not!

Update: Not really fear-filled, but there were some minor insecurities going on, and my gut was telling me that someone was talking about me. So was that intuition or worrying over nothing? I haven't a clue!

Healing

2010-01-18T12:00:00.002Z

Card of the day - Sunday 17 January 2010

Archangel Raphael (Angel Therapy cards)

*The healing angel is with you supporting your healing work*

Oh dear :( .......... I have the opportunity to attend a monthly reiki exchange, but have chosen to do some other things instead, one of which is go and see Avatar. Actually that starts after the reiki finishes ........ hmmm maybe I'll see if I can change my mind, depending on when I get up! I refuse to set the alarm for the Sunday morning, especially since I got up early today (Saturday).

However, looking at the card and the fact that he is surrounded by those swirls .......... and directing his hands away ......... I fully expect (and intend) to be doing some healing visualisations from home at some point in the day anyway.

Update: Well I definitely didn't go to the reiki share. In fact, I think it didn't happen anyway. This is definitely for the healing visualisations, and also for some self-reiki :)

As an aside, I absolutely loved Avatar, and found the symbology amazing. It could also tie into this card given the amount of the healing that Gaia really should be receiving these days!

Affirmation for the Week

2010-01-17T22:04:00.002Z

Due to events over Christmas and New Year, I've not been able to visit one of my favourite sites very much, but thankfully, almost back to normal so this week's affirmation is due to Living Life Fully's weekly ezine, this excerpt from 5th January 2010 :)

Affirmation of the Week
(beginning Monday 18th January 2010)

"I AM MAKING A LASTING IMPRESSION"

While the excerpt below is about how we affect others, and I know I've spoken before of the ripple effect of our actions, and indeed, have had that as one of our weekly affirmations, I am looking at this week's affirmation as one of the baby steps that we can take in creating our own futures ......... creating an impression for our future selves :).

Of all the things you wear,
your expression is the most important.
~~ Janet Lane ~~

What we do now causes a reaction. If you study now, and continue to do so, you are likely to end up with some qualifications. If you accept an invitation on a date, there is the possibility that that could lead to marrying that person 5 years down the line ......... and what you choose to put in your shopping basket, affects what you have for dinner each and every night for the week after! Now behave ........ put all thoughts of chocolate bars out of your head please ....... we're not even through the first month of the year yet! ;) So when you do something, choose something, say something ............ it's very unlikely that you're even consciously thinking about what effect any of those things could have in 5 or even 10 years time. But what if that particular moment in time, was a turning point? And if we think along those lines, then aren't all moments such turning points?

Minutes are worth more than money.
Spend them wisely.
~~ Thomas P. Murphy ~~

Enough waffling from this little Mouse. Instead, here's the excerpt I mentioned, and I'll have some affirmation questions at the end, as usual!

"You're Making a Lasting Impression
Jeff Keller
(Courtesy of Living Life Fully)

One of the earliest memories I have of my father is from one of the family vacations we took together. I was about seven years old at the time, and we were driving somewhere in the southern United States. My brother and I were in the back of the car, with my mom and dad in the front. It was mid-afternoon on a hot summer day when my dad saw an ice cream truck and pulled over.

As my father got out of the car, he saw a group of five young boys sitting on the curb near the truck. Four of the five boys were eating ice cream. I watched as my dad went over to the boy without the ice cream and said to him, "Would you like some ice cream? I'll buy one for you." The boy politely told my father that he didn't want any. Sure, it was a nice gesture on the part of my dad. But it wasn't a big deal, right? Well. . . actually, it was.
My father's act of kindness toward a complete stranger was imprinted on my mind that day. And I believe that my own conduct has been significantly shaped by that event. My dad made a lasting impression on me in another way as well. You see, social or economic status meant very little to my father.

He didn't gravitate to those with fancy titles. He seemed just as interested in speaking to waiters and the people who swept the floors. He respected everyone and looked down on nobody. And again, my dad's conduct helped to influence the way that I deal with people to this day.

Here are a few things to consider if you want to make a lasting impression and be a positive influence on others:

1. Recognize the paradox. We don't usually make a lasting impression when we're trying to do so. Rather, it happens when we're just living our lives and doing what may seem like ordinary, everyday things. Sure, there are some who make an enduring impact through great achievement or by being a celebrity. But lasting impressions are not reserved for famous people like Oprah Winfrey or Michael Jordan.

They're available to you and me - every day, every moment. As I look back, I can't remember a time when my dad sat down with me and said, "Here's how you should treat people." I simply observed how he lived his life. So, too, people are watching your life, whether you realize it or not. This is true in all the life roles you play - be it parent, child, employee, business owner, etc.

2. Live each moment consciously. While we can't plan those encounters or situations that will create lasting impressions, we can be more aware of our behavior and the potential influence it may have. Too often, we live our lives on "automatic pilot," that is, we do things out of habit without realizing the effect our actions might have on others. In many of these instances, our behavior does not match what we declare to be our values. For instance, you may think that you are "open-minded" and then catch yourself being intolerant of someone with different viewpoints.

Starting today, right now, realize that every interaction you have is precious. As author Dan Millman often says, "there are no ordinary moments." With this in mind, you can consciously choose, for example, to be honest, kind and to give your best efforts at all times.

So, the next time you're about to do something, ask yourself: What action would I take right now if I knew my behavior would have a lasting effect on someone? This isn't about being perfect. There will always be times when we behave in ways that we're not proud of. Yet, as you realize the impact of your day-to-day conduct, you'll find yourself making different choices.

3. Appreciate the ripple effect. It's hard to fathom the consequences of the lasting impressions we make. When my father asked that young boy whether he wanted some ice cream, he was affecting me--as well as everyone who would eventually come into contact with me--forever! Isn't that incredible?

Yet, it's not an exaggeration. My dad's act helped to shape my character, which in turn affects the way that I have dealt with people in the 40 years since that event. Furthermore, the people who I have met may have been affected and have passed along those values to others they have met. It's an endless cycle. Thus, there are no small acts in this world. One simple act can truly change the course of humanity.

In the end, you're going to make many lasting impressions, whether you want to or not. It's up to you whether the messages you send are positive or negative. As you go through your day today, give a little extra consideration to how you speak and how you act. You just may be making an impression that will endure for generations.
________________________________________
© Jeff Keller. Jeff is the President of Attitude is Everything, Inc. For more than 15 years, Jeff has delivered presentations on attitude and motivation to businesses, groups and trade associations throughout the United States and abroad. Jeff is also the author of the highly acclaimed book, Attitude is Everything. For more information, go to http://www.attitudeiseverything.com

Affirmation questions are:

What lasting impressions are you currently creating?
What lasting impressions would you like to create?
What is in your way to creating such impressions?
What can you do about changing such impressions (if you want to)?
What positive effect will this bring into your life?

Wishing you a wonderfully creative week ahead :)
x Mouse

Next deck up

2010-01-16T14:14:00.001Z

As you can see from the labels on the side of our blog, between us Cat and I have acquired a few decks ....... although compared to some, our collection is meagre ......... I actually have quite a few decks that I've never really gotten around to reading with yet. What can I say ........... you see the artwork ......... and it calls ........ and you order it ......... and then end up using one of the louder decks ........ and all the while the others huddle on the bookshelf and adopt grumpy expressions! So ...... what I've been aiming to do is try and use a deck a week. Obviously that hasn't worked out as well as I'd hoped ....... but am continuing to get a week's *worth* out of each deck (i.e. 7 postings) before moving onto another one.

Alas, the Steele Wizard has had it's shot for the moment ......... and it's onto the next one. Given that our posts are heavily dominated by tarot, I thought I'd bring out one of my new oracle decks to make a change. Alas ....... this one may not be to everyone's taste .......... and it wasn't one I bought either (free gift with magazine subscription) but when I drew cards from it (the first and only time), I was actually shocked at the ones I drew because they were soooooooo apt! So next up is Doreen Virtue's Angel Therapy oracle cards!

Alas I didn't keep a note of the cards I drew (shame actually, would have got a good post out of them!) so instead, we'll start with the New Deck spread. I figure one use doesn't really count much ;)

Angel Therapy cards

What do you have to teach me? ........ Heal away addictions

*It is time to let go of behaviours that are blocking you from your heart's desire. Ask Archangel Raphael to help you with this healing*

EEK. What's it trying to say? That I'm a tarot slut????? I am so not addicted to cards ........ *splutters*.

OK, being serious .......... I do call in guides and angels to help me, Raphael being one of them as the very little I have gleaned so far about the angelic realm is that Raphael is the one for healing! I also know that what I want, I'm blocking. So that's right. Turtle swims in the depths of the ocean ......... carrying her home with her ....... Raphael is holding a giant shell .......... and we humans put shells to our ears to listen ........... this shell needs to pour out some emotional residue ........ and listen to what echoes in the void! Perhaps then she'll hear the angel's whispers!

Perfect timing too ........... I'm aiming to start eating healthier from tomorrow ........ especially in reducing my addiction to white sugar! Given I'm a chocoholic ......... this is easier said than done!

What do I have to do? ........ Cancel, Clear, Delete

*Use only positive words and thoughts, as they're rapidly manifesting into fomr. Ask the angels to cancel the effects of past negative thinking*

Oh my! How's that for tying into the previous card. One of the things we can do when we visualise eliminating things from our lives can be a cutting of cords, or energy between us and whatever it is we're leaving behind. Need a sword for that! As regular readers here are also aware, we also have our weekly affirmations ......... which are deliberately worded so as to be positive.

This is something I do struggle with daily .......... being positive is a choice ....... and even then, knowing that, doesn't stop me from having road rage, wanting to growl at someone for barging into me, or thinking negative thoughts either about others or myself. The good thing these days is I can catch myself, and then try and turn those thoughts into positive. And sometimes I don't! Guess it looks like I've still got some work cut out for myself!

Hahahaha, how's this for perfect? From the book: *Perhaps ... [sic] ... sugar, or other stimulants have caused your mind to race with worry. The angels can help you reduce or eliminate cravings for stimulants* ........ must admit I now have a smirk on my face (for those who aren't sure why ......... this is because I write my thoughts down/read cards without looking at books first, or at all most of the time).

What will our relationship be like? ........ Visualize Success

*See yourself doing well in this situation and have faith in a positive manner*

Snorts. Couldn't have asked for a better card really. Says it all doesn't it. They know they're only going to be used for a short spell right now. They are reinforcing the message about getting rid of things, especially the sugar (and the reasons behind it - let's be honest ......... when it comes to any kind of addiction, there's a reason behind it).

Alrighty then, bring it on!

(Mouse creeps to the cupboard and goes to stash some chocolate in her super secret hidey hole)

The only way is up!

2010-01-16T01:32:00.002Z

Card of the day - Saturday 16 January 2010

Ace of Wands (Steele Wizard Tarot)

Oh great ......... what is it with the sudden songs appearing in my head when I draw cards this week???? Today, we have Yazz's "The Only Way is Up".

Nothing else calling especially. Am aiming to get the car into the garage as it's been making lots of squeaking noises and they reckon it's the bush or something ......... when asked to describe the squeaking noises ......... God, I can't believe I'm admitting to this in blogdom .............. the shame .......... I said it went *boing*. Yes the mechanics started snorting in disbelief and then trying to hide their laughter .......... like I said, the shame :D ......... anyway, could be a new rod, or pipe or something needed, in this shape of this wand.

Random floating thoughts - letter B, my foot, moving forwards, progression with meditation, connection to guide and lighthouse. Don't you think the top bit there looks like the top of a lighthouse? But then there's the feathers ....... and aren't those ivy leaves shaped like hearts. Hmmm, love is all around. Maybe I'll end up doing the heart chakra meditation that I did Friday night, again.

Oh and a fresh start ....... well I am aiming to start my healthy eating from tomorrow ........ and get up early to see the sunrise (aiming being the operative word, especially for the latter!)

Blood tests :(

2010-01-14T22:57:00.004Z

Ack, I usually only post on the blog once a day max, but this means I'm updating at the same time as posting up the previous night's draw & thoughts for the coming day. Guess it'll have to be two posts today instead, specially as I want to get back to posting the rest of my Sacred Yule spread at some point in the very near future!

Card of the day - Friday 15 January 2010

The Wheel of Fortune (Steele Wizard Tarot)

And so the wheel turns. It is the last day of the working week for me .......... and I'm figuring that I won't be offered any overtime, not that there's much about. I also have a vet appointment for Gem, my gorgeous male furball! That would sum up the lava on the bottom right quite well for an intuitive image, don't you think! Fire could be because it's going to sting him :( .......... and the top right could be my tears if I hear him yowling (that's what happened last time). Yeah I know, I admit it ........ am a complete and utter wuss when it comes to taking him to the vets! Even more so since we lost his sister. The clouds ........ well that's easy ......... he's been back every month for the past 3 months now, because he had a couple of elevated results :( ......... they've been going back down, but not quickly enough and given his medical condition(s) ........ well, let's just say I'm glad to get home and see he's ok every night!

Given that there are fruits, flowers and leaves on this Wheel, I'm hoping (as always) that the Wheel will be turning in our favour this time, although we won't get the results back until possibly Monday!

One other fleeting thought is the 12 spokes and in my mind, a nod there to the Hanged Man in my mind ........ the Wheel is going to change my currently *hanging around* status quo! Things are gonna get moving ......... results of that won't be seen for even longer though, so fingers crossed!

Update: Well this was a very good lesson in learning to listen to the little voices! Yes we had the blood tests, and he was very well behaved, and apart from sending me to the dog house with steely-eyed glares, no tears.

Oh yes, the little voices ............ overtime. When that floated in, I thought well there's no way they'll be offering me a weekend stint this weekend cos no-one would want to give theirs up and I haven't any booked. Like how the word/image *trousers* drew me the day before ......... overtime floated in vaguely .......... I got offered a weekend stint for next month. Pretty cool, although another good kick up the backside!

Trousers!

2010-01-14T20:09:00.003Z

Card of the day - Thursday 14 January 2010

King of Wands (Steele Wizard Tarot)

Oh dear, that Lion looks a wee bit sour-faced ..... in fact neither seem to be jumping for joy do they :( On guard and watchful, alert for little signs ......... in charge of their realm, hopefully ruling with passion and flair rather than grumpiness. I guess Thursday's going to be a day of doing what I need to do, as opposed to what I want to do.

What really gives me pause for thought though, are his trousers. Those creases or light streaks make me think of flickering ......... you know the kind of thing you see on tv ...... if a door flickers and behind it is another plane ........ hmmm perhaps I also need to be walking, thinking and feeling more along the spiritual side of things as well then. Or if someone really pisses me off ....... don't automatically assume the worst, and give them the benefit of the doubt. You know, sometimes, walking your talk can be very draining but then it takes a lot to be in charge of a kingdom!

Update: ROFLMAO, I ended up not going to the gym (yet again) but buying a pair of trousers *giggle*, which was so not what I was expecting to do. I have been extremely grumpy today, due to broken sleep (foxes wailing for what seemed like hours) ....... and yeah, several people have pissed me right off today. I did manage to not bite their heads off, but then the idiotic drivers got a few swear words that slipped out. Kings may be masters of their suits, but they're still representing human beings, and we all slip up! I do think it's cool about noticing the trousers though :D

Homework completed :)

2010-01-13T20:01:00.002Z

Card of the day - Wednesday 13 January 2010

8 Pentacles (Steele Wizard Tarot)

Ah well, there you go ........... talking about college and practice makes perfect ..... this is perfect for going over the homework I got back on Tuesday night ......... and doing the next piece of work to hand in! I mean ......... you have the 7 pentacles behind you (harvesting everything learnt) and literally putting pen to paper ....... love it, especially since I wasn't expecting to get this done tomorrow! Ah well, time will tell :)

Update: Yep, homework all done & dusted and also some reading of handouts given the previous evening!

Practice makes perfect

2010-01-12T22:40:00.001Z

Card of the day - Tuesday 12 January 2010

6 Pentacles (Steele Wizard Tarot)

Wow. Another 6. Yep am expecting a good day again tomorrow then (drawing on Monday night). Am taking it that I'm the lady here, dispensing the pentacle ........ given that she has 3 pentacles on the archway over her head, I'm also going to state that yes I'm going to college tomorrow night (a lot of side roads, including mine, have been really bad and I've not driven since last Tuesday so have been wondering about whether the class will be on) ....... and will be sharing either knowledge or personal experience during the course. Must admit I'm a bit nervous about that, as we are expecting to cover Loss shortly ........ and the whole subject has a huge *eek* factor for me. So I shall try and remember that whilst I may not think I'm talking about anything important (..... quite a bit of the time I do wonder who put the words into my mouth when they come out LOL ...... and others I wonder if I even know what I'm talking about cos I can't get my thoughts out coherently enough) ....... it will either be of benefit to or help someone else :)

Update: Well I got to College, and definitely opened my mouth LOL. Whether or not it helped anyone is another matter *grin*. And yes, as expected, we did share personal experiences. It was also a learning curve for me ...... practice makes perfect :)!