Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_6008The Wait

Heavy clouds
hang low
as pleasure craft
are docked
to bob
unsteadily
upon frigid waters
filled with
anticipation
while they wait
for the
coming storm
with baited breath
and
dramamine

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Thankful Things Cartomancy Reading

The prompt for this reading came from one of my Discord servers and is as follows: “Let’s ask our divination method of choice what is something we should give thanks for in our lives! Sometimes it can be hard to see the good, so let’s try and get some focus on that!”

Natalia Silva's Christmas Playing CardsFive of Hearts and Jack of Diamonds – Even when you’re feeling like you’re not at your best, you have the drive to keep going. Emotional issues might slow you down, but they don’t stop you.

Nine of Hearts and Queen of Spades – The harsh treatment you’ve received from others that you sought love from in the past has not turned you away from being open to finding a different type of love, comfort, and happiness elsewhere.

Three of Hearts and Four of Hearts – Those who love you are able to give you the space you need when you need it, then welcome you back into the fold when you’re ready. You need a good deal of alone time, and are not a particularly social person. Those that love and accept you accept this about you as well.

DECK USED: NATALIA SILVA’S CHRISTMAS PLAYING CARDS

Don’t Hide Yourself Away

Today’s meditation was skipped.

Marie Lenormand's Christmas OracleThroughout this month, I’m going to be mixing in some Lenormand and Oracle decks, just cuz I want to play with the fun Christmas themed decks, yeah? I don’t have enough time to do the divination challenges or all that, so I’ve decided to mix the different decks into my daily pull.

Today’s draw is the Lady and Garden cards. These cards speak of letting your inner “femininity” have more exposure in your life.  It’s okay to be soft, warm, and nurturing… and it’s okay for others to see these aspects of you.

It can be hard sometimes to allow our softer side be seen.  It can make us feel vulnerable or at risk. That’s what friends are for, though.  They are there to open up to and be vulnerable with, and there to help support and protect that vulnerability when you choose to show it. The message in today’s cards is to not lock up that part of yourself, but allow it out to shine as a part of your truth for all to see and acknowledge.  There is strength in wearing your heart on your sleeve and allowing people to see the true you.

DECK USED:  MARIE LENORMAND CHRISTMAS ORACLE

Daily Self Kindness

I picked up a stuffed manicotti tray at CostCo for dinner, and a bag of mozzarella cheese to add on top (and I also added a bit of garlic salt). It was spectacular and I didn’t have to do anything but shove it in the oven for an hour and keep on working.

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_9771Little Visitor

Hello there
who are you?
Hiding in the
corner
wide eyes
ready to surprise
any that
happen by
and camera lifts
to take a picture
to carry
you home
with those
that you inspire
to smile

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

One Day at a Time, One Step at a Time

Today’s meditation was skipped.

Winter Waite Tarot 2018 Edition - Six of SwordsToday’s draw is the Six of Swords, which is traditionally a representation of leaving the past in the past, moving on, letting go in order to welcome in something better, and transitions towards something better.

As often happens with traditional illustrations of the Six of Swords, what stands out to me in the imagery in this card is the movement of the boat departing rough waters to head for smoother ones.

For me? This time of year is rife with the potential for falling back into old, unhealthy habits. Not just in self-care but in a myriad of different aspects of my life.

When I see this card.  I see a reminder that says “don’t look back”.  There’s nothing good waiting for you back there in those rough waters you’re leaving behind. Instead, stay focused on doing better, one day at a time.

DECK USED:  WINTER WAITE TAROT 2018 EDITION

Daily Self Kindness

I’ve been “off” on taking my vitamins for a few days, and I got myself back on track today by taking my vitamins as I’m supposed to and filling up my pillbox so it’ll be harder to miss them over the week. I also backed out of six more Kickstarters.

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_9905bWinter Hike

Wet snow
makes
muffled sounds
underfoot
as each step
deeper
into the forest
promises
new wonders
for the senses
and the crisp nip
in the air
helps to cool
the furnace
raging inside

Photo © ZenStatePhotography