Saturday, January 30, 2010

"New Deck Interview" Spread

Here's an interview with Universal Fantasy! Long overdue, I know.

1. Tell me a little bit about yourself. What is your most important characteristic? The Hermit

You could say that I'm a bit of an old soul. I'm very introspective and thoughtful, and I try to look for deeper answers.

2. What are your strengths as a deck? 10 of Swords

I am a warrior, and I have a lot of pride. I will make sure that you understand the answers I give you.

3. What are your weaknesses as a deck? 5 of Swords

I may have a tendency to push too hard, and I think I'm a bit of a know-it-all.

4. What do you bring to the table? What are you here to teach me? 4 of Swords

I'm here to teach you how to interpret. Look beyond the LWB. Rely on your experiences.

5. How can I best learn and collaborate with you? The Moon

It's so easy to be lost in my imagery, but you must learn to look beyond it to see my message.

6. What is the outcome of our working relationship? King of Pentacles

I am all about discipline. I'm here to teach you how to be a better reader. It's not going to be easy road, but I'll be with you every step of the way.

Friday, January 29, 2010

The Secret Me

This spread is courtesy of the Tribal Bible. I'm constantly looking to see what secrets about me Secret can find. He's the right deck for that.

Here's the layout:
1-2/3-4

1. My secret desire. The Hermit

My secret desire is to discover who am I and the path that I am meant to lead in this lifetime. What am I expected to take with me as I grow as a person?

2. What motivates me. The High Priestess

I have a need to tap into my intuition that I feel that I have been neglecting. Allowing myself to be open to magic and mysticism.

3. What puts me down. Queen of Cups

My emotions may be blinding me from seeing, and embracing my power.

4. What I can accomplish. Judgement

I can liberate myself from the ordinary standard way of thinking to achieve a higher state of being. I can develop the new, spiritual me.

How interesting is it that there are 3 Majors in this spread? Apparently, Secret is all but screaming at me about who I am and what I'm capable of.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Daily Reading for 1/27

1. What I did well: Knave of Cups

The photo shoot went well albeit it was very weird. I was allowing myself to portray the message of sensuality that the photographer wanted.

2. What I must leave behind: 7 of Wands

I was losing my patience with the photographer because he was on that line of being a photographer with a great idea and being a GWC. I think I was seriously about to rip his head off.

3. What I must take with me into tomorrow: The Hierophant

Now the teacher must return. I had my day off, and it's back to class and people are looking to me and my director for guidance for the upcoming show.
I haven't really been updating with my daily 3. Life is starting to get in the way a bit. I did have quite a bit of time to play with Secret and Mermaids. I realize that I should also get to know Mermaids better. I feel like Mermaids has so much to tell me, and I have been neglecting her. Secret definitely doesn't have anything to worry about because they approach me in such different ways.

Too many cards, not enough time...

Monday, January 25, 2010

Elements of the Empress

As described in an earlier post, I had a conversation with Kafka's Ghost about finding spreads about my inner self, and what aspects of my self are coming forward. This is mostly due to the presence of the Empress (the first card I see when I open her Tarot of the Sephiroth, and it was one of the Present cards in the name spread). She is also my personality and soul card, and I feel her presence in full force now. She gave me the idea of a spread centered around her.

1     2     3

7     E     8

4     5     6

1, 2, 3 - Qualities of the conscious self
4, 5, 6 - Qualities of the unconscious self
7 - Past self
8 - Future self

1, 2, 3 - 5 of Pentacles, Knight of Swords, 9 of Cups

At first I was very confused by the presence of the 5 of Pentacles because there was nothing symbolically that made sense. It took a little while for it to actually hit me that I needed to pay attention to the image itself because it's pretty true. I do spend a lot of my free time in front of the camera as an artistic model. There's something beautiful about it, and I feel like I reach a higher plane of being. 

The Knight of Swords also makes a lot of sense, as I am very communicative. I will definitely give an opinion though I'm not exactly known for having the most tact. I don't say inappropriate things, but I have a tendency to not think before I speak.

The 9 of Cups is my artist card. It's my creative force. It represents the pleasure I get when I pour my soul into my dance. I think this is when my bond with Her is the strongest. That is where She's channeling Herself into me, and I become Her vessel for expression.

4, 5, 6 - Queen of Pentacles, King of Wands, 6 of Cups

The Queen of Pentacles is a nurturing woman. Dependable. She is also very encouraging. She's the one to turn to when someone needs some very practical advice. This does make sense as I have found myself to be the person that people do turn to for advice. I think she is a positive queen for me, where the Queen of Swords represents the negative aspect of me.

The King of Wands appears a lot in different spreads. I can tell that he has quite the magnetic personality. I like looking at him when he appears. He draws me in. I think that's what I have when people get to know me. I seem to draw people in. Sometimes men tell me that they're extremely attracted to me despite the fact that I don't do anything to warrant it. I think I have a big personality, and like him, I usually stop at nothing to get my way.

Seeing the 6 of Cups was quite interesting to me. I think it's because I have this tendency to replay good events in my head. It's something that I love to do, and I love the fact that it distracts me from the present.

7 - The Hermit

Hmmm... I would say seeing the Hermit is pretty valid. I was constantly searching for who I was. I still am, but I was definitely lost. I never felt comfortable in the 9-5 world. I was constantly changing my appearance. Despite having friends, I was often very solitary. I would retreat into myself.

8 - 8 of Swords

Gah! This damned 8 of Swords! I am so sick of seeing this card, although it reflects how I'm feeling. There is this internal conflict of wanting to come into my own as a woman, but other forces want to keep me in a box. I think the difference is that I'm not having it. My struggle is how to move forward to come into my inner Empress.

Thoughts are always welcome.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Daily Reading for 1/24

1. What I did well: 2 of Swords

Um... I wasn't really sure what this meant for today. I guess I could classify the swords as my thoughts and my emotions in that I'm trying to balance the two. However, as a Gemini (overly simplistic view, I know), my emotions are a foreign concept. Revealing my emotions is a sign of weakness.

2. What I must leave behind: 10 of Cups

When I'm with my mom, I always feel like everything is okay. There's seriously nothing out there like a mother's love. I'm very private about my personal life, and she doesn't ask questions, but she still gives me that comforting energy. Unfortunately, I can't be with her all the time. I have to leave that for today.

3. What I must take forward into tomorrow: 8 of Swords

Tomorrow is going to be a very conflicting day for me because I don't know how to approach my friend about the concerns I have. I want to be able to be open and honest with how I feel, but I've spent my life keeping everything private.

I did some additional readings about this conflict, and the 8 of Swords popped up every time. This conflict is really eating at me, and I do feel very stuck about what to do. I think tomorrow is going to be the big do or die time.

Daily Reading for 1/23

1. What I did well today: The High Priestess

I didn't let my internal struggles affect the way I taught class even though teaching was the last thing I wanted to do. I had to keep a good face on and not let my negative energy affect the class and my students.

2. What I must leave behind: Knave of Cups

I must let go of any lingering resentment that I'm feeling. It's time to move forward and be positive.

3. What I must take forward into tomorrow: 3 of Wands

Tomorrow is a new day. Just embrace whatever opportunities that come my way.

I tried the name spread that was on AE. It was a lovely 20-card spread, that I just wrote out in one sentence. It's a neat spread, but it told me what I already knew about myself. I've been looking for spreads that dug deeper. I had a conversation with Kafka's Ghost about it, she suggested choosing the card that I identified strongly with and then have cards around it. It was quite useful. I'll put up the readings later today.

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Daily Reading for 1/22

1. What I did well today: 9 of Cups

I think this card is my dance/artist card. It shows up whenever there's some sort of dance or artistic element involved. Today was no exception since I had rehearsal with my troupe after not dancing together in three months, and I had a collaboration with a photographer. My dance is my release, and it feels good to do it.

2. What I must leave behind: 9 of Wands

Cafe Astrology says that when you hurt someone with a Venus in Cancer, they begin to retreat into their "shell". That's me right now. I'm in retreat mode after a discussion with a friend of mine, and I want to discuss how I'm feeling with her. I feel like it's the only way to really leave it behind, but at the same time while I'll wear my heart on my sleeve, I'll keep my true emotions private. Right now, there's the shame of being chastised, the confusion and uncertainty of wanting to say something but not wanting to rock the boat, the question of how to move forward without needing to walk on eggshells. The easy answer is "Say something, silly girl!" Even my cards (Secret, Mermaids, and UF said it) suggest that I do it, but it's tough. I've learned to keep it inside and put on a happy face. Now, I'm getting into venting mode.

3. What I must take with me into tomorrow: Ace of Swords

This is all about having a plan. I know I'm going to need one for class. Maybe this is even about how to approach my friend. I dunno...

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Spirit Guide #3

Now let's say hello to spirit guide #3! She's (confirmed through Paul's Spirit Guide spread) very similar to spirit guide #2 in that she'd smack me if necessary. They're definitely partners in crime.

1. Tell me a little bit about your personality. The Magician

I want to take the world by storm! I have lots of great plans and ideas for you. I'm a spark, of sorts.

2. Why are you with me? 10 of Swords

I want you to be who you really are, not what everyone expects you to be. I'm here to help you free yourself from toxic environments.

3. When is your presence strongest? Knave of Swords

I'm with you when you need a plan, a way to get out of a difficult situation. Or when you need to do something different.

4. Was there a specific moment where your presences was strongest? Ace of Swords

I was with you when you decided that you were not meant to work a normal 9-5, but rather you wanted to pursue what you really wanted.

5. Is there anything you'd like me to know? The Hanged Man

You've got to take initiative for yourself. You can't wait around for things to come to you. You have to make it happen.

Daily Reading for 1/20

1. What I did well: The Star

I remained optimistic about my prospects, so there's a pretty good chance that my situation will improve.

2. What I must leave behind: The Hermit

When approached with an opportunity, I must act promptly. I shouldn't take the time to dwell and be very introspective about it, because by the time I actually make a decision, it will be gone.

3. What I must take with me into tomorrow: 3 of Wands

There are new opportunities coming my way... Hopefully more good part time job opportunities.

I'll have more spirit guides up tonight!

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Daily Reading for 1/19

1. What I did well: 10 of Wands

I didn't let the stress of the situation get to me. I basically had to handle my business as usual. I needed to do what I needed to do.

2. What I must leave behind: High Priestess

I was being very introverted when I didn't have to be. I know the people I was with, so there was no need for me to feel shy and awkward around them.

3. What I must take with me into tomorrow: Ace of Swords

I have to allow myself to develop more ideas to support myself. Have a plan of attack so that I can move forward with my life.

Monday, January 18, 2010

Daily 3-Card Reading for 1/18

1. What I did well today: 6 of Cups

This was a great card to see. I needed to feel good about something today because I have been so stressed out about a lot of things. I would say, this is the one of the few times the LWB is correct in what I did well. When I'm at the studio dancing, it's the moment that I can escape from the reality of my situation. It's my play time, and I made the most of that.

2. What I must leave behind: 3 of Swords

Once again, the LWB relates to the card! I must leave behind the uncertainty I feel about the future, about whether or not I'll be able to find something that will give me enough flexibility to continue developing my makeup career and my dance.

3. What I must take with me into tomorrow: The Star

I must have faith that I will be able to find what I'm looking for. I must stay positive.

Secret definitely picked up on my stress, and I appreciate its calm reassurance. I should take it's advice and stay positive because it's not the kind of deck that would sugar-coat things.

Goddess Spread

I found this spread on Aeclectic Forum, and I thought it would be cool to do a reading on it. I would love to start building an altar to Her, but that's going to have to wait. Here is the layout of the spread.

1   2   3
     4
     5

1. You. Where you find Goddess. Your opinion towards Her. Your experience with Her so far. 6 of Cups

I look at Her with fondness and joy. I feel like I am closest with her when I think of happy memories, or when I need a gentle nudge.

2. Relation. How you have interacted with Her and what you have shared in acts and prayer. The Empress

I feel like she is with me during meditation. She's also with me when I feel that inspiration to create choreography and dance. My dance is my offering to her.

3. Goddess. Goddess aspects you have witnessed and what She has granted. Queen of Cups

She has given me sensuality, the ability to love and the ability to be open to receive love. She allows me to open my intuition, and She allows me to be a vessel to create Her message.

4. Method. Future advice on how to heighten relationship with Goddess. 8 of Wands

I must not be afraid to actually contact Her directly. She is open to listening.

5. Tangible. Advice on physical worship and how to adorn Her. The Tower

I was stumped when I saw this. I think this also relates to Card 4 in that I have to actually contact Her. Let Her be a part of me. Invoking the spirit.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Daily 3-Card Reading for 1/16

Unfortunately, there's no reading for Friday. I was out all night. :-)

1. What I did well today: Wheel of Fortune

Despite my current worries, I have allowed myself to remain positive that things will turn out okay. I succumb to the will of the universe.

2. What I must leave behind: 5 of Wands

I must leave behind the fact that I got home at 5AM after an amazing night of dancing and killer dubstep music. I'm shocked that I'm still functioning.

3. What I must take with me into tomorrow: 9 of Cups

I still need to take in my indulgences. I had some really yummy brownies, and I'm such a sucker for sweets.

Here's the suit tally for this week:
Major - 6
Wands - 4
Cups - 4
Swords - 2
Pentacles - 1

What's really interesting is that the Wheel of Fortune has appeared three times this week, twice in position 1 and the other time in position 3. I think it has to do with just the way I'm approaching the situation I'm currently dealing with. Why be negative and bitter about it? The presence of Wands and Cups make sense since classes started up again. I love being around my students when I teach. I get so much fulfillment from them, and I get inspired to choreograph.

Spirit Guide # 2

Now we'll meet Spirit Guide # 2. On to the interview!

Tell me a little bit about your personality. 8 of Wands

I like to smack you in the face with messages. There are only so many subtle hints that I can give you.

Why are you with me? Queen of Swords

There are times when you think so much that nothing gets done. You doubt yourself too much.

When is your presence strongest? 2 of Wands

I'm with you when you need to make a decision about your wants. I steer you in the right direction.

Was there a specific event where your presence was strongest? Queen of Cups

I was with you the night you decided that you were with "The Emperor".

Is there anything that you would like me to know? The Sun

Enjoy life. Allow yourself to take in each day, just live and love. Stay positive.


Friday, January 15, 2010

Who I Am and Where I Am Going

This was inspired by dannymac.85's reading on this spread. I decided to try it out to see what Secret has to say. I'm discovering that Secret loves spreads having to do with destiny and the discovery of the inner self.

This is the layout of the spread:

3    -     4
     1/2
5  -  6  -  7

1. This is who I am now:  The Hanged Man

I'm still searching for myself. I feel like I'm on the brink of discovery, but there's a block that's preventing me from seeing my true potential.

2. This is what I don't know: Knight of Cups

I'm ruled by my emotions more often than I realize. I also have a tendency to get attached to others quickly once I let them in.

3. This is what I need to relinquish: Queen of Swords

I have a tendency to over-analyze things to the point where I almost drive myself crazy. I need to let go of being trapped inside my head. Sometimes it's better to just take things for what they are.

4. This is what I need to develop: The Devil

I must allow myself to enjoy life and the pleasures that life has to offer. I should allow myself some indulgences from time to time.

5. What I'd love to become: The Chariot

I'd love to be successful on my own terms. I prefer taking the reins and deciding my own direction in life.

6. My current quest: 9 of Swords


While I love to decide my direction, I'm having difficulty with it. It's stressing me out because I don't know how I'm going to actually pull this off with the limited resources I have right now.


7. Where it will lead: The Hierophant

What's interesting was that I played around with this spread using Mermaids and this card came out in the same position. I like to think of myself as someone who loves comforting others in times of stress. I'm usually the person to tell people to calm down. Will I be able to bring harmony to others? Is that what I'm meant to do as a teacher? Maybe.

Daily 3-Card Reading for 1/14

1. What I did well today: Page of Cups

I was able to express why I have no intention on meeting up with the guy I had the date with, and it allowed me to say what I am looking for in a relationship. It actually felt good to be open about what I'm looking for in a future partner.

2. What I must leave behind: King of Wands

I must leave behind any sort authoritative attitudes. Today is a day of fun and relaxation. The teacher can hibernate for a day.

3. What I must take forward into tomorrow: 9 of Swords

Yup. This is a big one. I think I'm going to need a part-time job. Between Burning Man, my costume, my website, an overnight stay in Vegas, I need to come up with a way to pay for all of that.  This is the slow time for MUAs and teaching just started up, so I need to be diligent.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Daily 3-Card Reading for 1/13

I'm finding that I do the reading at night then post it the next day. It works for me.

1. What I did well: 4 of Swords

I allowed myself to have a considerable amount of rest considering that I haven't been feeling well for the past few days.

2. What I must leave behind: The Hanged Man

I must leave behind the fact that I sacrificed my time for a date that really didn't go that well. I would've loved to have left earlier, but I didn't. Oh well. Nice enough fellow, but there was nothing there.

3. What I need to take with me into tomorrow: Ace of Cups

This was rather interesting to me because I did this reading twice (the first time was like reading a foreign language) and this card came up both times. I think it's a realization that I had after the date. I'm gradually coming into my own as a woman, feeling how a woman should feel, wanting what a woman wants. The problem I had with the date is that there was an immaturity in his spirit. He's in that space of being between a boy and a man. He'll make someone happy. That someone isn't me.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Spirit Guide #1

I'm so excited to have all six interviews completed. I asked the remaining two guides if they wanted to talk, but it took them a little while for them to want to talk to me. It wasn't until after I did my photo shoot that the two wanted to talk. Now we'll meet Guide 1.
Spirit Guide # 1

Tell me about your temperament/personality. 2 of Pentacles

I like giving you options. I'm the one who says, "Are you suuure you want to do that? You really want to do this." I allow the opening of opportunities.

Why are you with me? Strength

I am your protector. I make sure that you're safe, and you make the smart choices.

When is your presence strongest? The Emperor

I am with you when you need to focus on the task at hand. I make sure that you're not distracted.

Please tell me a moment where your influence and/or presence was particularly strong. King of Pentacles

I was with you during your Day of Dance. In fact, I gave you the idea that you should stay the entire time.

What would you like me to know at this moment? 7 of Pentacles

Enjoy the hard work that you put in today. I'm proud of you.     

Daily 3-Card Reading

Here's my reading from last night. What was funny was that while I was shuffling, the 9 of Pentacles came out twice. It was definitely a great card to see as I received the raw photos from the photo shoot. It was a very successful shoot, and it was a great learning experience for me.

1. What I did well today: Knave of Wands

I approached all of my classes with confidence since it was the first class of the new session. I gave my students a sense of confidence about the upcoming showcase.

2. What I must leave behind: The Emperor

Tomorrow is my day to relax. There's no need for me to be the instructor and provide material. I just need to go with the flow.

3. What I must take with me into tomorrow: The Magician

I must allow myself to be energetic with the guy I'm going to be going out with. I must allow my presence to stand out.

I finally got in touch with the last two spirit guides!

Monday, January 11, 2010

Spirit Guides

I tried to see if my remaining two spirit guides wanted to talk today, but they don't want to. Maybe it's because there's something I need to learn in order for them to communicate with me. I'll just go right along with the interviews of the four I did. This isn't in order of who first communicated because there are four distinct personalities. I think it's fitting to start with the one who has the most impact on my life right now: Spirit Guide # 4.

1. What is your personality/temperament? 10 of Swords
  
I was inhibited and shy, but now I'm allowing myself to blossom and enjoy freedom with you.

2. Why are you with me? King of Wands

I see so much passion and vitality in you. I want to bring that out of you.

3. When is your presence strongest? 10 of Wands

I am with you when you are strong and in control. I'm also with you when you are doing what you love.

4. Is there an event where you were a strong influence? The Chariot

I was with you the day before Halloween, the night where your feminine energy was especially strong and there were men who wanted to be with you.

5. Is there anything you want me to know? The Empress

Your feminine energy is growing everyday. Embrace it. Be the woman you thought you weren't going to be.      

Daily 3-Card Reading

Today was a great day. I think Secret's proud of me too. I am loving this spread.

1. What did I do well today? 10 of Wands

I didn't allow my doubts and fears get the better of me. I went into the photo shoot as cool as the woman in the card, full of calm and confidence, and the results showed. There are lots of great images as a start for my portfolio.

2. What do I need to leave behind? The Moon

I need to leave behind the negative thoughts of disaster that I had. Before the shoot began, I thought about anything that could've gone wrong. I was thinking so much about the shoot the night before that I didn't get much sleep. Now it's behind me.

3. What should I take forward into tomorrow? Wheel of Fortune

I need to ride the wave positive energy. I should be proud of my accomplishment, and take that energy to further my makeup artistry. Good things are in store.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

New Deck Interview

Here's my interview with Mermaids. UF will probably come around later on in the week.

Welcome to your new home Mermaids, why don't you tell me a little bit about yourself? Ace of Swords

Thank you for having me here *grins*. Despite my appearances, I'm very strong. I'm here to give you a new perspective on Tarot, and help you build your intuition. I'd like to help you think about what you see and how you interpret me.

What are your strengths as a deck? 10 of Cups 

I am so filled with love, and I want to give you peace of mind. I like to think that I'm a very harmonious deck.

What are your weaknesses as a deck? The Sun 

I may be too harmonious. I don't want to upset you, so I tend to soften the blow for any negative news.

What do you bring to the table? What are you here to teach me? 10 of Pentacles  

I'm here to teach you fulfillment, to teach you how to be one with yourself. We have so much in common that I want to see you meet you full potential.

How can I best collaborate with you? Knight of Cups

I am your emotional deck. I want you to tap into you feelings when you read with me.

What is the outcome of our working relationship? Knave of Swords

I have so many things that I want to say, be open to my messages. I feel like I know you already, so keep working with me. 

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Daily 3-Card Reading and Spirit Guides

I decided to try the spread that Kafka's Ghost linked in her blog, and it works like a charm. I think this will help me get a better understanding of my cards. Today's Mind-Body-Spirit reading was rather confusing to me that I'm not going to bother putting it up.

1. What I did well today: 7 of Pentacles

It's rather fitting that I got this card since I danced for 7 hours as a part of my teacher's Day of Dance workshop. I also felt very accomplished with myself for having the strength and the sheer ability to dance for that long and that intensely.

2. What I should leave behind: Justice

I shouldn't dwell on the fact that I skipped a makeup workshop to stay at the dance workshop. Ultimately, it was the right decision.

3. What I need to take forward into tomorrow: The Lovers

I need to own my choices. I shouldn't worry about second-guessing myself. If I make a decision, I should stick with it. It will be worth it in the end.

In other news, I felt like the Spirit Guide readings were off, so I tried it again. Turns out I have 6 spirit guides, not 9. I first got the 6 of Pentacles, but it was confirmed with The Lovers. Four were willing to speak to me, one is a very strong presence who I knew from the first reading. I'll post individual readings soon.

Secret Musings

Oh, Secret is just so adorable. I love it. So, I have two new decks: Tarot of Mermaids and Universal Fantasy. I'll have the New Deck Interview for Mermaids, most likely by tomorrow and UF by Monday night or Tuesday. I tried to do a reading with Secret, but it was giving me garbage, so I asked it if it was mad at me using the Yes/No/Maybe spread. It was very mad. I wanted to know why it was mad. Here are the results I got: 6 of Cups, The Lovers, The Hermit.

I totally appreciate its honesty. It was worried that I was going to choose the other decks over it, and leave it all alone. Well, Secret has nothing to fear. There's something really special developing between us. It's here with me for the long haul. I'd love to play with my other decks, but Secret is for the serious powers.

I'm currently thinking about how I should go about my daily reading. Sometimes the Mind-Body-Spirit spread works, and sometimes I can't read it. I also think that might be a spread that's better served for the evening than in the morning. Would it make sense to do two 3-card spreads? One for the day and another for the evening? I need to find a spread that really works with Spirit.

Friday, January 8, 2010

Daily 3-Card Reading

Body - The Sun
Mind - 5 of Cups
Spirit - 5 of Pentacles reversed

The cards basically summed up how I felt this morning. My body still felt energized and active, and I took advantage of that by doing some pole dancing then I'll be dancing the night away. My mind has experienced a harsh dose of reality and is filled with a lot of regret. At the same time, my mind still wants to hold onto hope that it isn't true. The 5 of Cups is looking at The Sun longing for that peace of mind and harmonious balance. Relating to the 5 of Cups, my spirit is letting go of the illusion. It wonders, am I the photographer who is completely out of the model's league? In another setting, would he have given me a second glance?

Daily 3-Card Reading

Body - 4 of Swords rev.
Mind - 9 of Cups rev.
Spirit - The Sun

Let me just say right now, the woman in the 4 of Swords is really creepy. I think it's just the way she just stares at me while she's sitting on the tomb. She gets under my skin.

My body is getting sick with a cold *cough cough* and it craves rest, but there's no time to rest. Gotta dance, dance,  DANCE! And that woman is chastising me for that. I need to dance, but my mind is just not in the mood to choreograph for my students. However, my spirit is filled with excitement to see my students and teach.

In other news, I have two more decks! Tarot of Mermaids and Universal Fantasy. New deck interviews to come.

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Daily 3-Card Reading

Body - Ace of Cups
Mind - 10 of Wands reversed
Spirit - Queen of Pentacles

My body had this burst of feminine energy. It just wanted to feel sexy considering that it spends so much time huddled up in layers of clothing. I also downloaded some songs that I would love to choreograph to because it taps into my sensual side. It's a spark that happened. My mind was just ready let go of all of the burdens that have consumed me in the past few days (my first shoot as a makeup artist, finances, having material for my classes) and embrace what's to come. My spirit was ready to exercise and get moving. What better way to embrace the Ace of Cups aspect than to take pole dancing class again. It was great to feel sexy and still feel like I had gotten my butt whooped.

I managed to communicate to 5 spirits. Four more to go...

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Daily 3-Card Reading

Body - Knight of Cups reversed
Mind - Knight of Pentacles reversed
Spirit - 2 of Swords reversed

My body has been jolted from it's usual habit of getting up late to actually being up relatively early. Because of that my mind is still struggling on how to be productive and make the best use of my day. There really wasn't much going on with my spirit today, so I'd say that it's been pretty mellow overall.

I did Cat 'N Owl's Pick Your Tarot Focus for 2010 this morning, and I had an interesting result. I initially pulled The Hierophant, but it just didn't feel right. My spirit guide told me to pick the card, directly to the left of it. What do I get? None other than the Mother herself, The Empress. This is big because we're in the year of the Empress, and it is my personality and soul card. Meditation thoughts to come...

Monday, January 4, 2010

Cycle of the Year

As promised, here's my cycle of the year reading. This one, I got from a book on spreads that I purchased from Kafkas Ghost, but I'm sure it's available on Aeclectic Tarot.

January - The Moon reversed
I actually loved seeing this card come first mostly because the woman appears to be running away from 2009, and heading straight for February. It was quite amusing. I saw this as the veil of illusion being lifted. Reality is setting in, and it's time to move on. This largely has to do with my feelings towards "The Emperor", and that it's time to let go of the illusion of him.

February - The Queen of Swords
She is the reason why I bought this deck. She seems sad, but I take it for emotional distance. She's withdrawn into herself. She's lost in thought. She's keeping herself protected. I see her as myself in that I have a tendency to protect myself whenever I get smacked down into reality. I have difficulty trusting others and allowing myself to be open to that.

March - 10 of Pentacles
I feel like this is a sense of stability. I highly doubt it's financial stability. Maybe his has to do with my developing makeup career. My planning has come to fruition, and I have something to show for it. Not entirely sure.

April - 6 of Pentacles
Tax time! Please let me get some financial assistance. This is going to be a collaboration. After much thought, the biggest event planned is that I'll be working with my web designer, and I'll finally have my site up.

May - Knight of Wands
He's probably the least harmless knight of the four of them. He's a cutie pie. I think he represents the entrepreneurship aspect of my life. My ability to go forward with my dance and my makeup career. This is my venture out into the world as my own boss.

June - Two of Wands
Decisions. Decisions. This will be a time where I need to decide on where my energy should go to. Could it be about my career, relating to the Lovers card in the previous year-ahead spread?

July - The Magician reversed
I can see this about pulling all of my energy inward in preparation for Burning Man. Focusing on myself, making sure that I have prepared myself for it.

August - Two of Cups reversed
Could this be the time where "The Emperor" and I see each other again? I was playing around with this spread a few days ago and this card came up in the same position. I think whoever he is, he's going to be the one pursuing me, with the way the woman in the card seems to have him at a distance.

September - 6 of Cups 
Looking back at a great experience. I'm thinking of the fun times that go on during that week. I'm going to make Burning Man happen!

October - 6 of Wands
I see this as my needing to turn the blinders on and get back to business. It's the march to victory. Of course, this is the time for one of the biggest belly dance festivals, so I'll be in rehearsals a lot.

November - Knave of Swords reversed

There is bad news coming. With the way the knave is looking at December's card, it leads me to think that it has something to do with...

December - 3 of Pentacles reversed
The place where I teach dance. The thing that just really came to mind was that it was going to close down because of lack of funding to survive.

Once again, thoughts are always welcome.
 

Daily 3-Card Reading

I knew the day wasn't going to be a productive day when I didn't hear my alarm go off, and Secret agreed with me.

Body -  2 of Swords reversed
Mind - The Sun reversed
Spirit - King of Wands reversed

My body is still experiencing conflict of wanting to be active and wanting to be in hibernation mode. I had full intentions on getting up early to do stuff, but that didn't happen. Because of this conflict, I was quite confused as to how to go about the rest of my day (me + confusion = nothing's happening). My spirit is warning of going back to old habits so quickly when there's an opportunity to start fresh.

I'll have my month-by-month spread soon.

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Daily Spread

As a part of my PDR, I'm going to do a Body-Mind-Spirit spread in the morning, then do an overall thought on the cards. I attempted a one-card draw, but it just didn't work for me.

Body - 9 of Swords
Mind - King of Pentacles reversed
Spirit - Knight of Wands

It wasn't difficult for me to figure out what this was about. I had expressed the possibility of going to a dance party tonight. My body was saying, "Rest, silly girl!", but I had all of this pent up energy that I still needed to let out. It was actually driving me a little crazy. My mind was agreeing with my body (that king looked mad at me). My mind said that it was foolish to extend myself even further even after what I've done. My spirit is the sole voice if dissent. It's saying, "Go! Dance! Let out that energy!"

2-1 No dancing. Must rest. Plus it feels like 5 degrees outside.

Saturday, January 2, 2010

The Year Ahead Spread

I was checking Aeclectic Tarot, and I came across this spread: The Year Ahead Spread. It looked really interesting, so I decided to try it out. I'll provide the reading in a bit, but I do have some preliminary thoughts.

I like that it's not by month. I love the different themes involved as there are a lot of factors to consider without being constricted by month (watch me do a month-to-month spread in the next few days). It leaves for a lot of flexibility.

That being said, I don't think Secret likes this spread much. One of the things that makes him amazing is how the cards interact with each other to give me the message. The cards were too far apart to talk to each other, which made the energy seem stagnant. When Legacy gets out of her little hissy fit stage, I'll use it on her to see if there's a difference. Has anyone found that certain decks don't like certain spreads?

On to the reading! No reversals.

Position One: Where my path leads me. 10 of Wands
My guide is in love with this card. I feel like in this instance, I'm done with the status quo. I'm ready to have a new life. The skull represents someone who played by the rules, and that was what they have to show for it.

Position Two: The direction of my heart. 3 of Cups
Lots of new bonds forming. Developing a sense of community. I love my dance students, and I'm looking forward to seeing them soon. Plus, there's the opportunity of bonding with the NYC burners.

Position Three: Where my spirit guides me. 3 of Wands
New opportunities await. There is so much to learn and experience. Be open and receptive to what is coming.

Position Four: What gifts my muse ignites within me. The Fool
It's a new beginning in your dance. When the inspiration hits, go for it. See where it will take you.

Position Five: That which the mist shrouds. The Sun
This one was a hard one for me. This is what I wrote down: Despite my frustrations and sense of disconnect with the world, I will be able to find the peace and happiness that eludes me. I'd love to get some feedback on that one.

Position Six: The blindfold removed. The Magician
Apparently, something big is going to happen. A revelation? A solution to my problems? I couldn't figure this out.

Position Seven: The Shadow which pass over my Sun. Judgement
I will need to change my way of living. That means saving, significant financial planning.

Position Eight: The Well of Prosperity. The Lovers
As Secret has the tendency to do, this left me scratching my head a little bit before I got the "OH!" moment. I'm going to have to make the choice between having a stable 9-5 job or continue on with the freelance life.

Position Nine: The Font of Vitality. 5 of Cups
I'll have the experience of what-if. There will be some regret and longing.

Position Ten: The Harvest. Knave of Wands
I love this knave. He's too cute for words. It looks like the gem of the year has something to do with travel. Burning Man, perhaps?

It's not shocking that there are no Pentacles in this spread. I am shocked by the 5 Majors though. I knew this year was going to be big, but I didn't think it would be this big. I love hearing thoughts and maybe some perspectives that I haven't thought about.

Friday, January 1, 2010

Happy New Year!

I know I'm getting to this rather late, but I had a great New Year Celebration that went from 7PM to about 11 AM (Christine, there's the 9 of Cups you saw). I'm exhausted, but I did a Body-Mind-Spirit spread.

1. Body - 9 of Wands reversed
A woman dressed is walking in a garden, her head down in shame.  In the background, 9 wands of alternating heights frame the bushes, almost as a block. I got that one really clear. My body's hurting right now from a night of excess. The energy to go about my day just isn't there.

2.  Mind - Knight of Wands reversed
This knight is rather unorthodox for a knight. His armor is lighter than the other knights, and I'm most curious by his "helmet" of sorts. It looks like the top of a scarab. I see this knight as providing a great influence on others. He has the ability to charm. He doesn't care about what others think of him, but everyone just loves him. In the reverse, I feel like I succumbed to the influence of others. That's all there is to it.

3. Spirit - 9 of Cups
A wealthy man is standing in a rather opulent room with 9 cups on a sill. His arm is resting on it, with a satisfying feel. Despite the craziness that was New Year's, it was a really great time, and I'm glad to have had that experience. It truly was satisfying.