In Between the Holidays

I have reserved this week between the holidays for four things:

1. Spending time relaxing with family and friends.
2. Staying in a space of gratitude.
3. Reflecting on 2009.
4. Dreaming about all of the possibilities in 2010.

I hope you are enjoying some great holiday time yourself and are spending your time just the way you want to.

I'll be back to regular blogging on Monday, January 4th. Until then...

Happy New Year...and Namaste!

Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday -- The Two of Pentacles

On Intuitive Tuesdays I select a card and give you my interpretation of it. On Thursday I select one reader's comment and pull an additional card.

I encourage you to read about the additional card I pulled this week and see how it applies to your life. Anything that is brought to one of us is a message for all of us.

This week's Intuitive Tuesday card was the Three of Wands, which is about the excitement and anticipation of watching your ideas take off!

I pulled an additional card today for Kim, in response to her comment:

With the focus on the holidays, it is more challenging to trust in how it will flow in the new year - so I appreciate this card as a reminder to keep the faith and keep the dream alive.... and big.
Thanks Sheri - all the best of the holidays to everyone :)

The card I pulled for Kim is the Two of Pentacles from the Mystic Faerie tarot deck.

Twos indicate choices or decisions and Pentacles indicate the material world, money and business affairs. This card most likely symbolizes challenges or decisions that you are facing in the area of your work.

The Two of Pentacles has a juggling feeling to it, as though it's tough to get a handle on any one area of your work because they all seem to be right in front of your face.

With the Two of Pentacles, the more skilled you get at keeping the balls in the air, it seems as though more balls are being added to the mix -- all with seemingly equal importance. It seems that there are multiple priorities that need attention all at once, which makes it hard to prioritize what comes first.


Because you are so inter-twined with the work you do, this may also feel personal to you...as though your reputation and self-worth are the focus of these decisions. You may feel like you are being spread too thin. You may be wondering if you can really dedicate the time necessary to bring forth all of these very important projects?

Remember that twos also deal with choices, which may be a helpful clue for you to not try to do everything all at once, but choose to do one or two things really well.

One of my favorite sayings is, "You can have it all...but perhaps not all at the same time." To me, this indicates that even though I want everything to happen right now (as though there is an urgency to have it all happen right now), there is plenty of time for the important, purposeful things to happen...if I simply give it time and be patient.

As you move into the new year and are making these decisions, focus on the very wise words you included in your comment above: "trust in how it will flow in the new year." If the only decision you make right now is to do just this: "trust in how it will flow," you will have made tremendous progress on your path.

Your trust will lead you forward to making the first decision, then move forward until you come to yet another decision, and then move forward. Think of it like a cosmic video game where each time you take a step, more options appear. The more you decisively step forward, the path in front of you lights up. You realize that you create the path as you make decisions and step forward.


The trust comes in when you come from an intuitive standpoint to make your decisions and know in your heart that the path will lead you towards your goal and your higher purpose.

Decide today to find that trust and knowing by looking within yourself. From this perspective, you really can't make a "bad" decision because all paths lead you to your goals, in perfect timing...while completely fulfilling your purpose along the way.

Note: I will be taking some time off for the holidays (yeah!) and will NOT be pulling an Intuitive Tuesday on Tuesday, December 29th or an Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday on Thursday, December 31st. But check back during the first week of the New Year and I'll be back! Happy Holidays

Intuitive Tuesday -- Three of Wands

Every Tuesday I select one card and give you my interpretation of it. See how it applies to your life. What messages are here for you?

Each Thursday I choose one reader's comment from Intuitive Tuesday and pull an additional card for more clarity...so check back on Thursday to see what cards come up.

The card I pulled today is the Three of Wands from the Gilded Tarot deck. What a perfect card for the upcoming New Year!

Threes symbolize creation, growth, expansion and two things coming together to make something bigger and better...a blending of the best elements. The suit of Wands symbolizes energy and action.

The Three of Wands shows a person looking towards the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. This card has to do with the blending of creative elements or ideas, taking partnership to a whole new level, and can also indicate a new project, the future, and things beginning to take off. There is excitement ahead and lots of opportunities on the way.

According to the book, "An Introduction to Tarot," by Cassandra Bee, the Three of Wands, "represents looking forward to completing a mission with optimism, possibly a commercial enterprise or trade...We are happy to watch as our ideas take off, suggesting we have learned to let go and delegate to others to fulfill our plans." According to Bee, the key words are: "foresight, expansion, having a mission in life, enterprise, trade, delegating power."


As you read through the meanings of this card, you probably have a pretty good idea what the Three of Wands is pointing to in your life.You've probably been working on this project for a while, gaining experience and studying for some time, and now it is time to bring this energy to the next level. You have enough information and intuitive direction to move forward with confidence.

As you move into the New Year, use the energy of the Three of Wands (excitement, enthusiasm, confidence and expansion) to step forward...even if you can't prove "it," (whatever "it" is)...because you intuitively KNOW that this is the right move for you right now.

It's time to overcome the voices in your head that may be causing you to doubt yourself, question what you are doing, or not fully engage in your bigger purpose here on earth. Think BIG...bigger than you've ever thought before. Open your mind and your heart and dream big dreams, because with the energy of the Three of Wands, anything is possible.

Perfect Moment Monday -- Merry Christmas Cactus

As I was watering my plants over the weekend, I came across another Perfect Moment!

Apparently even my plants know that it's time for the holidays and are showing their Christmas spirit. Both of my Christmas Cactus plants are blooming as though they are singing, "Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!"

The message here? May you remain strong in your roots, feeling grounded and stable...and may you blossom in the coming year!

From me and my festive plants to you, Happy Holidays!

For more Perfect Moment Mondays, head over to Weebles Wobblog!

A Quote to Ponder

The other day in yoga class while holding Warrior 3 (Virabhadrasana), the instructor said:

Life is too important to take it seriously.

I love this instructor because she creates a challenging class and sprinkles it with great life lessons and things to ponder.

This saying reminded me to not take things so seriously...and have more fun.

What does it mean to you?

Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday -- The Fool

On Intuitive Tuesdays I select a card and give you my interpretation of it. On Thursday I select one reader's comment and pull an additional card.

I encourage you to read about the additional card I pulled this week and see how it applies to your life. Anything that is brought to one of us is a message for all of us.

This week's Intuitive Tuesday card was the King of Wands, which signifies a person you have in your life and/or an energy you possess yourself (explorer, entrepreneur, promoter of ideas, ambitious).

I pulled an additional card today for Laura Rose, in response to her comment:

The King of Wands definitely describes my son, David, who lives in San Francisco. He invited me to visit for my birthday and we had the most amazing time this weekend. We are working on my business plan for 2010. I value his ideas, wit, charm and enthusiasm. He is a blessing in the lives of everyone he touches.

David sounds like a wonderful King of Wands energy...and it also sounds like you will be bringing out a bit of your own King of Wands energy in the upcoming year.

The card I pulled for you today is The Fool, which is the very first card of the tarot deck and the first card of the Major Arcana cards. The deck I used today is the Gilded Tarot and I love the artist's interpretation of this card and its energy.

It's as though The Fool is saying, "Hey! I'm just having a great time getting started. I'm not sure where I'm going, but I am really excited to get on the road and start moving forward!"

To me The Fool is the anxious, butterfly feeling you get when you feel the start of movement, shift and growth in your life. I get this feeling when I listen to intuitive messages and am ready to move forward -- sure about moving forward, but unsure about where I'm going or how I'll get there. This is where faith steps in.

Laura -- Your 2010 business plan is the first step of the next leg of your journey. It's exciting. It's an adventure, and even if you put onto paper everything you think is going to happen, The Fool side of you knows that the journey will be anything but predictable. And yet, the business plan helps you to structure your attitude and your energy as you step forward.

All of the Major Arcana cards are numbered and The Fool is number Zero and 22 (which would be the start and end of the Major Arcana cards). Zero is symbolic of a number that has no beginning and no ending - it's a continuous loop of circles/cycles in your life. The Fool marks the start of another cycle...that will eventually connect to the next one...and so on and so on.

For all of us (because as I looked through all of the comments, The Fool can apply to any of us), the start of a New Year is the perfect time to focus on The Fool's energy. It's a reminder that it's OK to feel like and possibly look like a Fool sometimes. If we always do what we know we can do and never stepped off to try something new, life would get pretty predictable and boring.

What is it that you are stepping into? It's something that is not completely defined right now; it may be just the seed of an idea, but it feels like you are being drawn forward by an imaginary force.

Take the energy and possibly the naivete of The Fool and begin your journey. Get out your maps, create your business plans, say your prayers and listen for answers...because NOW is the time to take the next step forward with an open heart.

Note: I will be taking some time off for the holidays (yeah!) and although I will have posts up during that time, I will NOT be pulling an Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday on Thursday, December 31st. But check back during the first week of the New Year and I'll be back! Happy Holidays!

Intuitive Tuesday -- King of Wands

Every Tuesday I select one card and give you my interpretation of it. See how it applies to your life. What messages are here for you?

Each Thursday I choose one reader's comment from Intuitive Tuesday and pull an additional card for more clarity...so check back on Thursday to see what cards come up.

Today's card is the King of Wands from the Gilded Tarot book and deck by Barbara Moore and Ciro Marchetti. There is another deck by this artist (Marchetti -- Legacy of the Divine Tarot that is absolutely beautiful as well.) I hope to get this deck soon.

The King of Wands will either be a person in your life or qualities that are present in you. The suit of Wands signifies energy and action.

This King is considered a natural leader, explorer, entrepreneur and promoter of ideas. He has wit and charm, exhibits independence and enthusiasm. He loves a challenge and can be very ambitious in many areas of his life.

Each of us has a King of Wands in our lives. It could be your father or a father figure, a brother (usually older either in age or in maturity level), a boss, or someone (usually male) who you look up to. This is typically a person who is comfortable and confident with who they are and s/he supports you too.

If this card is describing some aspects of your personality, the King of Wands qualities include being focused, determined and driven towards your goals.

You'll feel the King of Wands energy in areas where your passion drives you forward. A great metaphor for this is imagining balancing on a surfboard and being swept up on a large wave. Feeling the thrill and the excitement, the surfer (King of Wands) loves the challenge of riding this wave and staying balanced on his/her surfboard. Isn't this feeling exciting and contagious?

Wands is also the side of your personality that reaches out to others. This is where your extroverted side (no matter how big or small) connects to others around you. When you tap into this energy, you are closer to being described as the "life of the party" (although not quite as showy) than you are to being a "wall-flower." Your confidence commands attention and other people notice this silent energy that you exude -- almost without trying.

If you relate to this description, don't think you are getting a big head. On the contrary, part of the reason the King of Wands is so appealing and attractive is because s/he is "all that" and doesn't need to know it to show it.

If you don't relate to this description, perhaps the clue for you today is to open to this part of you. Each of us has something we are confident and passionate about. Find this place in you and look for ways to expand either this area of your life or take this feeling of confidence and test it out in other areas of your life -- possibly where confidence may be lacking.

Play with it. There is no right way to do this. The King of Wands was selected for you to remind you to reach outward to the King of Wands in your life or inward to find these qualities within you. Once you tap in, follow your intuition and go/grow from there!

Perfect Moment Monday -- Dinner by the Fireplace

My hubby was out of town for several weeks over the past month, for both personal and business travel. Anytime he is going to be out of town that frequently and for that long, the dynamics around our house change in preparation for the trips and recovery afterwards.

Finally we got a night to ourselves, since the boys all had activities planned, so DH asked me on a dinner date. Perfect Moment #1.

We decided to go to Ol*ve Garden to have their famous soup and salad meal. As we walked into the restaurant, I realized how cold I was and was glad to be inside. There was no wait (Perfect Moment #2) and we were immediately escorted to our seats.

The hostess guided us to our table and gave us the choice of two tables, one in the middle of the dining room and one right next to the gas fireplace...which of course I took the seat just inches from the fireplace. Perfect Moment #3.

The waitress quickly brought us our drink order and the draft beer tasted so refreshing. Perfect Moment #4.

Just prior to our date, I had taken my strenuous warm yoga class and was very hungry. The salad and ministrone soup tasted SO wonderful. The breadsticks weren't bad either. Perfect Moment #5.

(And don't forget that I'm still sitting right next to the fireplace -- still perfect).

DH and I had the most wonderful conversation about his world and mine and reconnected with our precious date time. Perfect Moment #6.

After telling our waitress that neither of us wanted dessert, she brought us our bill and some mint chocolates...not just two, but an entire handful. Perfect Moment #7.

After dinner we picked up the kids and went home to enjoy a relaxing few family minutes before an early bedtime (before 10 p.m.) Perfect Moment #8.

I'll stop there. :) But know that it was a series of Perfect Moments indeed.

Now THAT'S Cold!

We live in one of those places that brags about how many days a year you can play tennis or golf. We hardly ever have snow days! When we get snow, the joke is that it is gone by noon the next day.

Well not this week. On Tuesday, we got hammered by a snowstorm...and the snow has been around all week because it's been SO cold (negative temperatures, bitter cold).

Our house sits up on a hill. We have a LONG gravel driveway that we share with our wonderful neighbors. When it gets snowy or icy, this hill can be treacherous! Some of it sits in the shade most of the day so if the temperatures are below freezing over a couple of days, the driveway can get downright icy and stay that way until the temperatures warm up.

As the snow was diminishing on Tuesday, I joined my neighbor to help shovel and pick (the icy spots) the longest part of our driveway (a couple hundred feet). Here's a picture of the upper HALF of the driveway, which means it's just as long in the other direction!

Since she teaches a Boot Camp class at a local gym, I figured that for the 2+ hours we were shoveling, that was my workout for the day. The next two days I had sore muscles in the weirdest places, including the palms of my hands (from gripping the shovel or pick?).

And to all of the drivers of vehicles with snowplows who simply drove right on past...next time, please stop for 10 minutes and help us out! We laughed at the number of plows that went by and didn't even stop to help.

Maybe next time we should wear bikinis to make sure we can get their attention. Don't worry. we'll also wear a hat, mittens and sunscreen, of course! :)

Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday -- The Ace of Cups & The Moon (reversed)

On Intuitive Tuesdays I select a card and give you my interpretation of it. On Thursday I select one reader's comment and pull an additional card.

I encourage you to read about the additional card I pulled this week and see how it applies to your life. Anything that is brought to one of us is a message for all of us.

This week's Intuitive Tuesday card was the Ace of Cups, which signifies the start of new emotions.

I pulled an additional card (or two) today for Kristin, in response to her comment:

I know what I hope it will symbolize for me...another final pregnancy but I have no clue if it will happen.

The card I selected was...The Ace of Cups (AGAIN). Since this was also the card for Intuitive Tuesday, I selected one more card for clarity, The Moon (reversed). Both cards I selected were from The Gilded Tarot deck by Barbara Moore and artist, Ciro Marchetti.

For information on The Ace of Cups, you can read this week's Intuitive Tuesday post by clicking here. In addition, there are some other meanings of the Ace of Cups that may be of interest, especially in light of your question about getting pregnant.

One of the meanings of the Ace of Cups has to do with fertility, pregnancy, childbirth and motherhood. This shows up in the tarot reference books, Tarot: Plain and Simple, by Anthony Louis and in Tarot for a New Generation by Janina Renee.

In a more general sense, it has to do with the free flow of blessings in our lives, spiritual growth and overflowing love. Just like we felt on Tuesday, this is a positive card of new emotions. Feel the Love!

The Moon, in its upright position can symbolize hidden things, fantasy, and fluctuation. The Moon card indicates things are still uncertain.

The Moon (reversed), however, means that things that were once hidden are now surfacing and seeing the light of day. This card can also show a deeper intuitive understanding of the forces at work and that beneficial changes are on the way.

The Moon (reversed) means that you are stepping into a period of clarity, growth, and a deeper understanding of the forces around you. It's as though you have been looking at your life, up close and personal, and are now floating above it and have more clarity.

In some tarot texts, the Moon indicates feminine energies while the Sun indicates masculine energies. The Moon (reversed) may point to either you not tapping into your full feminine power or possibly that your husband/partner may be questioning what the next step is. I don't get that the questioning is focused on moving forward with the baby, but a broader question about life and timing.

For all of us the combination of The Ace of Cups and The Moon (reversed) invites you to allow your intuitive abilities to surface and let your feelings flow.

If there is something that you have not taken the time to look at for fear of what you might find, The Moon reversed lets you know that it's time to take a look AND that you are emotionally ready to face these new feelings (Ace of Cups).

If you know what situation this refers to, that's great! If not, be on the lookout for this to show up. Either way, be open to exploring any new emotions it brings.

Intuitive Tuesday -- Ace of Cups

Every Tuesday I select one card and give you my interpretation of it. See how it applies to your life. What messages are here for you?

Each Thursday I choose one reader's comment from Intuitive Tuesday and pull an additional card for more clarity...so check back on Thursday to see what cards come up.

I pulled today's card the Ace of Cups, from The Mystic Faerie Tarot deck by Barbara Moore.

The Ace of Cups has to do with deep, overflowing emotions, the start of new emotions, new love, friendship, peace and abundance. It can also symbolize childbirth, pregnancy, motherhood, romance, health and psychic abilities. That certainly runs the gamut.

After reading the meaning of this card, what comes to mind for you?

Whenever I pull the Ace of Cups, I realize that an entirely new door is opening, one that invites in new feelings, emotions, closeness...and perhaps overwhelm as these new feelings flood in. But in most cases, the Ace of Cups has to do with finding joy and pleasure in your life and in your relationships.

During this time in between the holidays, open up your heart to your emotions; be in your body and truly experience your life from an emotional standpoint. Open your heart and let your cup overfloweth...with your energy, time, money, etc.

The Ace of Cups has to do with love...this can be the love you have for your family, your friends, your work, your pet...and even yourself. Today's mantra is: Feel the love!

Knowing that today's card is the Ace of Cups, feel the love all day...when you are waking up, getting ready, working out, eating, working, talking on the phone, looking at the computer, paying your bills, playing with your kids, reading a book, meditating, enjoying someone's company, doing yoga, riding a bike, drinking a cup of coffee...(fill in the blanks here).

The message for today is to take the energy of the Ace of Cups and Feel the Love ALL DAY!

Perfect Moment Monday -- Dynamic Duo

When we met my family over Thanksgiving weekend, my DH, my twins and my sister, Tami, all went skiing together.

They had a GREAT day on the slopes...as captured by the photo above.

Seeing both my sister and one of my kids having so much fun is a Perfect Moment for me.

The great thing is that I can have this feeling of gratitude -- for my sister, my son, my family, etc. any time I look at this photo.

That...is Perfect!

Being A Perpetually Happy Person

I am just now reading the book, New Moon, by Stephanie Meyer. Yes, yes, I know that it is in movie theaters and that the book came out in 2006...but it takes me a while to catch up with what's hip (just ask my kids).

(Note: I know, "hip," isn't hip anymore. Today my kids refer to this as "sick," or "tight." And just when I get the new lingo, it changes!!)

Before I go to the movie, I plan to finish the book. For some reason I like all of the details and nuances that a novel offers before enjoying the big screen version.

One quote that stuck out to me when I was reading last night was this:

Jacob was simply a perpetually happy person, and he carried that happiness with him like an aura, sharing it with whoever was near him. Like an earthbound sun, whenever someone was within his gravitational pull, Jacob warmed them. It was natural, a part of who he was. No wonder I was so eager to see him. (page 145)

My goal is to be a "perpetually happy person" most of the time. That doesn't mean denying what I truly feel to be a Pollyanna, but more of staying in the perspective of gratitude and being thankful for what I have in life.

I loved this part: "whenever someone was in his gravitational pull, Jacob warmed them."

I want people to feel that way about me. I want to exude the divinity within myself and attract to me others who have this same quality.

What are your thoughts on being a perpetually happy person? Maybe you already are...

Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday -- The Star

On Intuitive Tuesdays I select a card and give you my interpretation of it. On Thursday I select one reader's comment and pull an additional card.

I encourage you to read about the additional card I pulled this week and see how it applies to your life. Anything that is brought to one of us is a message for all of us.

This week's Intuitive Tuesday card was the Five of Swords (reversed), which signifies the aftermath of a disagreement, a competitive situation or some type of conflict in your life.

I pulled an additional card today for Quiet Dreams, in response to her comment:

This was so good for me to read today. I immediately thought of my divorce, which should be finalized literally any day now. What you said here: "This means that you have faced the forces of change by simply allowing, you've walked away from an argument or no longer have "winning" as your highest goal, and may be shedding the people and situations around you that are causing conflict." --this really made me think of the mediation I had to go to and the attitude with which I went.

Right now I am working though a lot of the emotions that have come in the wake of "getting hit by the divorce bus." I always need a reminder to breathe and feel my feelings

I loved the phrase, "getting hit by the divorce bus." I remember "getting hit" myself. I am currently writing a story about my own divorce that I plan to share with the Wild Women readers (hopefully soon), because right after the divorce bus hit, I began to hear my intuitive voice...which has since become a HUGE part of who I am and how I live my life.

The card I pulled today for Quiet Dreams and for all of us is The Star card, which I pulled out of the Rider-Waite tarot deck (designed by Pamela Colman Smith under the direction of Arthur Edward Waite). I keep the mini-deck in the car with me so I can pull a card any time.

The Star is a card of hope, inspiration, optimism, harmony and luck. It encourages you to continue on your path and follow your dreams. Every time I pull this card, I know that no matter what's going on around me, things will be OK.

The Star symbolizes positive energy flowing into your life, bringing you inspiration, exciting opportunities, guidance and renewal.

Quiet Dreams, I sense that you are experiencing a renewal in many areas of your life. From your blog and your comment above, I know that you have recently moved, are going through the steps of mediation and divorce, and have a great companion, Miss. Famous. All of these are outward signs of renewal.

The renewal indicated with The Star card is one of re-discovering who you REALLY are, dropping any facades or roles that you have been filling and carefully shedding the parts of you that now seem "fake" or "put on." It's not that you were intentionally doing this to fool people (even though at times you may have even fooled yourself -- temporarily), it was more a function of upbringing, old beliefs and survival.

Think of The Star as a guiding force in your life, out in front of you showing you the way. Now is a time to tune into your intuition and inner wisdom and find the guidance you seek, especially when things get rough (Five of Swords). Through this process you will begin to know yourself better, day-by-day.

The message for all of us is that even when times are tough, we each have a star out in front of us that serves as a reminder to continue on our path, follow the light (even though it may be dim at times) and keep moving forward on our journeys.

When I was going through divorce, I used The Sun card as my guiding force. I bought a necklace that had a sun on it and everyone in my family knew and knows that I like The Sun. Just last weekend, my dad gave me a beautiful silver and copper sun (1 1/2 feet in diameter) to hang in my office.

If you need some support, some guidance or a reminder that things will be OK, find a picture of a Moon, Sun, or whatever symbol will help you to keep moving forward. Hang it where you will see it regularly, or find a way to wear it, or take a picture and have it as your screen-saver.

Be creative and find a way to remind yourself that things are and will be OK. Remember, the stars are always out there whether you can see them (night time) or not (day time). Sometimes it just takes a little reminding, patience and faith.

Intuitive Tuesday -- Five of Swords (reversed)

Every Tuesday I select one card and give you my interpretation of it. See how it applies to your life. What messages are here for you?

Each Thursday I choose one reader's comment from Intuitive Tuesday and pull an additional card for more clarity...so check back on Thursday to see what cards come up.

Today's card is the Five of Swords (reversed). I used my Mystic Faerie Tarot deck again this week. I love the artwork on these cards!

Fives represent forces of change, something that upsets the balance, and disrupts the stability represented by the four (remember that fours are like the legs of a very sturdy table). Five is halfway through the cycle and may indicate disruption or change along the way.

Swords represent conflicts and/or mental or intellectual qualities, which in this case might indicate logically going over and over a problem to figure out what happened and how to best fix it...which can be mentally draining.

The Five of Swords can then indicate forces of change, an argument, energetic competition with other people and being attracted to situations involving conflict.

Today's card is REVERSED, however, which means that the forces mentioned above are either blocked or the worst is over. Yeah!

This means that you have faced the forces of change by simply allowing, you've walked away from an argument or no longer have "winning" as your highest goal, and may be shedding the people and situations around you that are causing conflict.

The Five places you right in between the Four of Swords (rest and rejuvenation) and the Six of Swords (calmer waters ahead). You have gotten through the disruption of the five and are ready to move on.

You probably have a pretty good idea what situation this is referring to in your life. If it hasn't surfaced or gotten to this point yet, be aware that it may happen in the next couple of weeks. This card was pulled today to give you a heads-up so that you can respond to a potentially disruptive situation instead of reacting.

If you feel yourself beginning to react to your "competition" or face a disruption in your life, the Five of Swords prompts you to pause and allow the emotions to come up, deal with what's there and then act/respond. This is a case where taking ten deep breaths can not only breathe new life into your body, but refresh your mind and soul and help you create a much-needed pause.

Today get into a mental (Swords) space and contemplate this question: How can you keep the message of the Five of Swords reversed in mind when facing the heat of the moment? The bonus here is that you have a heads-up!

Perfect Moment Monday -- Race to the Last Piece

We enjoyed a four day family weekend to celebrate Thanksgiving. One of the traditions of family get-togethers is doing a puzzle. This can take us late into the night and can sometimes turn into all-day-puzzle-marathons. It is a great way to spend time together and all focus on one project.

The most fun is at the end of a very difficult 2000 piece jigsaw puzzle when you quit thinking, "There must be a piece missing," or "This is impossible," or "My back hurts from sitting here for four hours," and you can tell that the number of pieces on the table must fit exactly into the space that is left.

Then everyone (whether they have been involved in the puzzle process or not) gathers around the table to put in the treasured "last piece."

Hands are flying to grab pieces, flipping them this way and that, trying to put the remaining pieces into place.

One of my kids "hid" the last piece and got the privilege of putting it into the puzzle. We all jumped up and down, excited that we had completed the puzzle.

The question then became, what do we do with the rest of the weekend?

Excavator -- we missed your analytical persistence this weekend.

Another series of (marathon) perfect moments!

Intuitive Tuesday on Friday -- Knight of Cups

On Intuitive Tuesdays I select a card and give you my interpretation of it. On Thursday I select one reader's comment and pull an additional card.

I encourage you to read about the additional card I pulled this week and see how it applies to your life. Anything that is brought to one of us is a message for all of us.

This week's Intuitive Tuesday card was the Four of Cups, which signifies feeling a bit dissatisfied or bored because you may not be seeing or recognizing the good all around you.

I pulled an additional card today for Ailey, in response to her comment:

An absolutely wonderful reminder that, despite our family's current situation, regarding my husband's and my less than full employment, we do have MUCH and that much is reason for MUCH gratitude. Who knows...maybe that fourth cup means that a job(s)is on the way. Happy Thanksgiving!!

Today's follow-up card is the Knight of Cups, a card signifying new emotions, relationships and experiences. I have previously selected the Knight of Cups, click here to see this previous post.

As for Ailey, the Knight of Cups describes your outlook on this time in your life. You mention both you and your husband under and/or unemployed. This can be a very tough time. And even though you may be noticing a "tightening of the belt," there also seems to be new, subtle ways in which you are BEING in your life.

The Knight of Cups can also indicate a time to take empowered action. This might be situations where you can be generous, sensitive and giving (a perfect energy for the holidays). It can also be a time when you get more involved in family events (Cups) and showing the people in your life how much you love them.

And, you mentioned the thought of a new job on the way, the Knight of Cups means movement (a change of residence, a trip, a new house or a new job...to name a few).

For each of us, this card signifies a new relationship with ourselves and with the world around us. With the momentum of the holidays, we are again reminded of what we DO have.

Last night I saw the movie The Blind Side, starring Sandra Bullock, which was a GREAT movie.

On the way home, my hubby and I talked to the boys about how very lucky we are and how we plan to give time and energy during the holiday season to help others who may be feeling down or dissatisfied with life. I don't know about you, but when I give, I feel very uplifted and light. It starts out as giving a gift to someone else, and ends up being a gift to myself.

With the Knight of Cups and the Four of Cups energies, I challenge you to maintain your new relationship with your life (Knight of Cups) -- seeing and acknowledging what you DO have instead of focusing on what you don't (Four of Cups) and know that you always have enough...for yourself and to share with others.

Happy Holidays!

Thanks and Giving

Each week I write a column in The Daily Sentinel. Since today is Thanksgiving, I wanted to share this week's article, which describes a fictional account of one of my coaching sessions. Enjoy...

“I stopped by the grocery store and was behind a young mother,” Lana said as we began our coaching session. “I was picking up cupcakes for Tommy’s Thanksgiving party, where I am headed after our coaching session.”

“What about the mother piqued your interest?” I asked.

“I felt uncomfortable watching her dig through her purse trying to muster up money for her groceries,” Lana said. “I overheard her telling her children that she couldn’t afford any pumpkin cookies. There was no irritation in her voice, simply matter-of-fact.”

“As she walked away, I built her story in my mind,” Lana continued. “It included her husband losing his job and taking a lower paying position that only covered the essentials.”

“It’s interesting how our mind fills in the blanks,” I said.

“The clerk rang up the cupcakes and I easily paid for them,” Lana said. “It seemed unfair that I could indulge in something as decadent as cupcakes for a classroom party, where there will be tons of snacks and some food even tossed out in the end ….and this woman could barely buy the basics.”

“Tell me more about those feelings,” I prompted.

“We’re not rich by any means,” Lana began, “but I’m not in the predicament that I assumed this woman was in. During the holidays it seems more prevalent how some families struggle and others don’t. We talk about eating until our buttons pop, sitting on the couch watching football while we drink eggnog, while other families may not have enough money to buy a turkey!”

“I would guess there are many families in each of these categories – some with enough and some without,” I said. “How are you going to spend Thanksgiving this year?”

“The kids are coming home, and up until now, our plan has been of the ‘button-popping’ variety,” Lana explained.

“You sound disappointed,” I said.

“I’m excited to see the kids, but again, it feels selfish and greedy to sit around and eat. There is a gap between how our family celebrates and how the woman at the grocery may spend her holidays.”

“What could you do to close the gap?” I asked.

“I’ve heard of people volunteering to serve at the soup kitchen, but I want it to be more personal,” Lana explained. “I’d like to help one family have a nice holiday season. If I could contact that young mother from the grocery store, I would…but that’s impossible.”

“How else could you help a family during the holidays?” I asked.

“I could ask the principal if he knows of a family who may need and would accept help, anonymously, of course. I’d be happy to buy ingredients so they could celebrate both Thanksgiving and Christmas. In fact, I would ask my family to help plan and shop for the food so we could all participate.”

“That sounds like a great idea,” I said. “How can you make this happen?”

“I’ll talk to the principal today,” she said with excitement in her voice. “It’s a win-win-win. I feel I’m helping to close the gap; another family gets to celebrate the holidays, and my kids learn the benefits of helping others. This year I will both give thanks for all of my blessings and enjoy giving to others. Isn’t that what this holiday season is all about?”

Coaching Challenge:
No matter what your financial situation is, how can you include both “thanks” and “giving” into your holiday celebration?

PLEASE NOTE: Normally on Thursdays I select an additional card for one of the Wild Women of the Universe readers who commented on Intuitive Tuesday. Please check back tomorrow to see which reader/comment I chose and which tarot card I selected. Happy Thanksgiving!

Intuitive Tuesday -- Four of Cups

Every Tuesday I select one card and give you my interpretation of it. See how it applies to your life. What messages are here for you?

Each Thursday I choose one reader's comment from Intuitive Tuesday and pull an additional card for more clarity...so check back on Thursday to see what cards come up.

Today's card is the Four of Cups. Fours symbolize stability and foundation (think of a sturdy table with four legs), and Cups represent feelings and emotions.

So the Four of Cups represents emotional security. Sometimes this can lead to periods of stasis and perhaps boredom, which can lead to feeling discontent or dissatisfied.

As you can see on the card, there are four cups -- three on the ground and one being offered from above. With this card, there is a feeling of longing or wanting more, possibly not seeing or acknowledging what's in front of you.

This is a perfect card for Thanksgiving week. It reminds us to see the emotions, feelings and life that are represented by the cups that are right in front of us...every day. Especially if life has seemed steady and somewhat boring lately, now is the time to realize what gifts you truly have.

The message of the Four of Cups is to take time to meditate and contemplate before forging ahead. Don't just do something (anything) simply to step out of being bored. Be thoughtful about where you are and take time to be grateful for what you have.

Pay attention to the good things in your life and if you need to create action to keep from being bored, do so in a positive way. Be creative. For example, if you are bored in a relationship, take the time and effort to infuse it with life. If you lack interest in your work, find one aspect of a project and jump in with both feet. Decide to shine in this area of your life.

The Four of Cups is a time to pause, contemplate and realize that life truly is pretty good. This Thanksgiving week, one of the things you may be grateful for is having a stable life that may feel boring at times, but only long enough to prompt you to move forward once again.

Perfect Moment Monday -- The Anatomy of a Cell

Last night I helped my twin 7th graders with a project called, The Anatomy of a Cell. In this homework assignment, each student is supposed to create a detailed drawing or a model of a plant or an animal cell.

Luckily, both of my kids decided to do the drawing, which relieved me of having to drive to a hobby store to get a bunch of materials that may or may not be used...to create a model that would have to be specially transported to school and then kept in a memory box later.

Drawings are still fun to create AND they travel and store so easily.

As I helped them label the "Golgi bodies, nucleus and the mitochondrion," I remembered studying this when I was in 7th grade (not so many years ago). :)

It was fun to watch each of them draw, color, label and explain the function of this basic building block of life.

I've included a quick reference chart above in case you'd like to refresh your knowledge of life science.

I love being in this space with my kids. It provided yet another Perfect Moment.

Together in the Light

The thought for today comes from my Message of Life deck by Mario Duguay. You can click here to check it out or go to your local (metaphysical) bookstore.

This card says:

Together in the Light: I see others as exactly who and where they are supposed to be. They are in the perfect place to contribute to my own personal growth.

Each emotional reaction another may cause in me is a gift from their soul, given to me out of love, to help free me of my conflicts. I work and look at myself without seeking to blame others. Thus I become one with the Divine in all of us.

The hardest thing to realize when I'm upset with someone is that what they did and my emotional reaction to it is an opportunity for growth. Usually when I let my emotions calm down and allow time to go by, I can see the lesson and embrace the situation with forgiveness and love.

For me, this card is a perfect reminder of how we are all divinely connected....together in the light.

Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday -- The Magician

On Intuitive Tuesdays I select a card and give you my interpretation of it. On Thursday I select one reader's comment and pull an additional card.

I encourage you to read about the additional card I pulled this week and see how it applies to your life. Anything that is brought to one of us is a message for all of us.

This week's Intuitive Tuesday card was the Knave of Swords.

Quiet Dreams, you mentioned it in your comment and I think it's worth stating again -- "Interesting how everyone related this card to a person." Court cards usually relate to a person and it's amazing to me how quickly your intuition identifies who it relates to for you.

Since we all related this card to a person, I encourage you to do whatever your were prompted to do when you read Tuesday's Intuitive Tuesday post for your Knave of Swords -- spend extra time with that certain (young) someone, tell that person how much s/he means to you, truly be with him or her and simply love them. You already know what to do; the Knave of Swords was just your reminder to do so. :)

And for Kristen (and for everyone else), I have pulled an additional card in response to Kristin's comment:

For me, the card would represent my son Gabe. We are currently having a major power struggle because this incredibly bright, wonderful kid has decided he WON'T potty train...ugh.

Ah, yes...potty training. Is that the ultimate set-up for a power struggle or what? My oldest son didn't complete potty training until he was almost 4. Luckily his twin brothers (who are 17 months younger) saw how their older brother used the toilet and trained at 2 1/2 (just three months later). Our grocery bill was SO much lower without all of those diapers! But, I digress...

Today's card is about mastering your world using the skills you have -- The Magician -- to do whatever you want. If it is to potty train your two-year-old son, then know that you have what it takes to get the job done.

Since I've selected The Magician card before, you can find more information about this card by clicking here. One of the key lines from that day's post was:

As you can see from the card, as The Magician, you have the energy and magic of all four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords and Pentacles) and can use your wisdom to blend these ingredients to move forward on your path and manifest anything you desire.

What The Magician also indicates is that you may need to do some experimentation with all of the tools in your toolbox to get the job done. How does that translate into potty training...or anything else in life?

Here's what I call The Magician's Exercise to help you as you face challenging situations:

Think about your own toolbox and possibly a situation you are currently facing. As The Magician, you have in your toolbox the energy of the four tarot suits:

• Wands -- movement, energy and action
• Cups -- emotions, feelings and intuitions
  
• Swords -- intellect, logic and reasoning
• Pentacles -- business experience, practical sense, knowledge of material interests
  

As you look at the challenge/situation you have in front of you, ask questions about each of these areas to gain insight on how to move forward. For example:

• The Wands: Tell me what Wands energy (movement, energy and action) I need to apply to this situation?
  
• The Cups: Tell me what Cups energy (emotions, feelings and intuitions) I need to apply to this situation?
• The Swords: Tell me what Swords energy (intellect, logic and reasoning) I need to apply to this situation?
• Pentacles: Tell me what Pentacles energy (business experience, practical sense, knowledge of material interests) I need to apply to this situation?

This will give you the opportunity to ponder the situation/challenge from four different perspectives. And remember, it's not only an intellectual exercise (where you work mostly in your brain); The Magician's Exercise asks you to look at your situation from several different angles and from there, create your own special magic.

Play with these questions to help change and broaden your perspective; tune into all aspects of your being, and tap into the wisdom of The Magician to move forward from here. It's like having your own magic wand!

Intuitive Tuesday -- Knave of Swords

Every Tuesday I select one card and give you my interpretation of it. See how it applies to your life. What messages are here for you?

Each Thursday I choose one reader's comment from Intuitive Tuesday and pull an additional card for more clarity...so check back on Thursday to see what cards come up.

Today's card is the Knave (Page) of Swords. I used my Mystic Faerie Tarot deck...isn't the artwork playful?

The Knave of Swords is one of the court cards -- which can indicate:

• actual people in your life
• traits that you possess
• or possibly a situation in your life

How do you know which one? That's where your intuition comes in. Read the following clues to see how this card applies to you and your life. When something hits home for you, that's your intuition talking...listen up!

If this card symbolizes a person in your life, it may be someone who is younger than you (in either age or maturity level); they may be learning something new (swords indicate intellectual and mental qualities). It may be a precocious or clever child, someone who is energetic, curious, bright, inventive and enjoys exploring things intellectually.

If a person immediately comes to mind (you get an intuitive hit), chances are that you may need to dedicate some time and attention to this person. It's not a random occurrence that this card came up for you. Spend time enjoying this person, getting to know him or her and make a special effort today to reach out to him or her...even if only to let him/her know you care.

If today's Knave of Swords refers to you and your personality, it may indicate that you have the opportunity to learn something new or are eager to explore a new interest. If you've recently noticed a feeling of passion and energy, take this as a sign to step forward and see what's available for you. Your passion and inspiration is a sign of being "in spirit" or purposefully driven forward. What is it that you want to explore? This card encourages you to take one (baby) step towards your passion to move you forward. Do it today!

If today's card refers to is a situation, the Knave of Swords might indicate some type of communication (a letter, email, phone call or notice) about something that's been on your mind. This card can also give you a heads-up that information may come that you may not initially like -- but know that the card also predicts that if the news at first seems upsetting, take ten deep breaths and be glad to know that the message of the Knave of Swords may appear upsetting, but it will quickly disappear from your life. So don't waste time getting upset. Let it run its course and see what happens.

Court cards can seem complex, but my guess is that reading through this information, you already know what messages were here for you today.

If not, be alert throughout the day and see what comes your way. If so, take this information and move forward...one step at a time. And...let me know how it goes!

Perfect Moment Monday -- German Sing Along

Last weekend, DH (dear hubby -- whom I am dancing with in the photo below), the kids and I met several members of our family members for the Army vs. Air Force football game.

DH is in the Army National Guard and his brother graduated from West Point. Watching this game each year is a tradition for this military family.

DH’s brother (and family), DH’s parents from Illinois and my entire family all traveled to Colorado Springs to cheer on the West Point Black Knights (who eventually ended up losing).

Here are the highlights of the weekend (all Perfect Moments)

• Spending time with my family (high on my values list)
• Tailgating (lots of food, drinks, football, music, family)
• The weather was absolutely perfect!
• The jets flying over the stadium were fantastic (and loud and close)
• Working out with my younger sister and blogging with my older sister
• Yoga with my sisters and sister-in-law (especially since our guest pass was waived because our husbands are military – SWEET!)
• Visiting the Chapel at the Air Force Academy (beautiful architecture)
• The pool and slide at the hotel were also a BIG hit!
  

And the one Perfect Moment that stands out was our dinner on Saturday evening at the Edelweiss German restaurant (pictured above). Our family of 19 was in a room all by ourselves. There was a woman accordion player who came in just before our dinner was served. She spent about twenty minutes with us, playing songs and singing with us.

During the evening we were all up doing the Chicken Dance, clapping our hands, swaying side-to-side with our arms linked and having a really great time!

I’m sure people throughout the restaurant could hear us singing the chorus to the “Happy Wanderer Song," especially the part that goes:

Val-deri, Val-dera,
Val-deri,
Val-dera-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha
Val-deri, Val-dera.
My knapsack on my back.”

If you want the song stuck in your head all day, click here. If you do click over, check out the verses underneath the line including this one:

I love to go a-gorging
Amid great gobs of food,
And as I do my abdomen
Continues to protrude.

Calorie, calorah,
Calorie, calorah-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha
Calorie, calorah,
My body is obese.

Great times! Great memories! A (series of) Perfect Moment(s)!

Today's Angel Card: Enthusiasm

I have a bowl of Angel cards in my office and also in my living room. If you've not seen Angel Cards, they are simple cards with one word and a drawing of an angel.

I used to keep Angel cards in my office when I worked with a bunch of engineers. It was tough for these left-brained, analytical people to believe in anything that they could not prove...but, several of them would stop by my office each day to select their card for the day. One of the lead engineers, in fact, will email me every-so-often, asking me to pull a card for him.

Today I have pulled a card for all of us: Enthusiasm.

The Original Angel Cards Book explains its meaning: Be present with zestful alertness! Loosen your constraints and let your passion for life uplift others and generate new opportunities.

I'm enthusiastic most of the time and am reminded to consciously focus on this energy vibration -- not only to benefit me, but all of the other people in my life.

What can you do to raise your enthusiasm, loosen your constraints and let your passion for life uplift others and generate opportunities?

Intuitive Tuesday on Thursday -- The Hermit

On Intuitive Tuesdays I select a card and give you my interpretation of it. On Thursday I select one reader's comment and pull an additional card.

I encourage you to read about the additional card I pulled this week and see how it applies to your life. Anything that is brought to one of us is a message for all of us.

This week's Intuitive Tuesday card was the Five of Wands (reversed). I have pulled an additional card today for Tami - BFL Champion who said:

I certainly know where this conflict lies. And on a logical level I understand the motivations that are causing a stalemate in what was once a strong friendship.

But I can't help being mad, still, at the way I have been treated by someone with whom I was very close.

I know I should be able to rise above and just forgive and love, but is it wrong to just feel wronged for a little bit?

I believe I am usually compassionate for others and their situations, and empathetic toward what they are going through. But I'm just not feelin' it here!

Sounds like I have some work to do. Grrrr.

I think we've all felt this way. It's hard to accept when someone you have been close to doesn't seem to be valuing the friendship.

The card I pulled for you today is The Hermit, which is a card of searching within yourself for answers. This doesn't necessarily suggest an intellectual search as much as an intuitive search.

For example, you may be asking questions like, "What happened?" or "What did I do?" or "When was the last time things seemed OK between us?"

This approach of logically trying to sort through the events to determine where things went off-track can be exhausting...and non-productive. Because the other person is not included in this analysis, you can get caught up in your own thoughts and paradigms with what is wrong. It can feel like searching for answers in a dark maze.

From an intuitive space, you can more easily tap into the energy beneath the situation. The Hermit encourages you to be thoughtful, patient, contemplative and insightful.

Maybe the separation between you has nothing to do with YOU. The Hermit can indicate that s/he is also tuning in and learning his/her own spiritual lesson AND could also prompt you to look at what's here for you to learn as well.

When conflict appears in your life, it's easy to take things personally. In this situation, The Hermit encourages you to use your feelings to learn more about yourself.

• Why does this hurt your feelings?
  
• What expectations did you have for the situation that possibly weren't fulfilled?
  
• What is here for you to learn not only about how to deal with today, but with the larger theme of conflict in your life?

Personal Story: I have two friends right now where I feel a separation. I've been close to each of these women over the past couple of years, but due to a series of events, there is now a gap.

I'm not mad at either of them; it feels as though we each need time on our paths to travel alone for a while. Perhaps at some point, we'll be prompted to see each other and may also want to "talk about it," but we may find that there is no "it" to talk about, except for the fact that we noticed the separation.

I'm open to engaging with each of them, but am not intuitively prompted to make that happen...yet. We'll see what happens from here.

In the meantime, I plan to sit with the energy of The Hermit to learn what lessons are here for me.

Take time today -- be a hermit -- to ponder (from an intuitive perspective) any conflicts that are in your life right now. As The Hermit suggests...be patient, be contemplative, be open...and wait. The answers will appear; it's just a matter of time.

Intuitive Tuesday -- Five of Wands (reversed)

Every Tuesday I select one card and give you my interpretation of it. See how it applies to your life. What messages are here for you?

Each Thursday I choose one reader's comment from Intuitive Tuesday and pull an additional card for more clarity...so check back on Thursday to see what cards come up.

Today's card is the Five of Wands (reversed). Fives are midway through the ace through ten cycle and typically symbolize upsetting the balance, disrupting harmony, change, competition, challenge and conflict.

Pulling this card in the reversed position isn't necessarily a bad thing because upside down can mean less of or the opposite of the upright meaning of the card.

The suit of Wands indicates energy and action. Combining the number with the suit, the Five of Wands can be an exciting challenge, changing conditions, new ideas and experiences, conflict, struggle, competition and the need to prove oneself.

If you have been caught up in these types of situation you know how exhausting it can be to maintain your energy levels. With the reversed card, you can relax a bit, knowing that some of the struggle may be over. What a relief!

Five of Wands (reversed) can also indicate mixed motivations of the people around you that may lead to conflict, but this card can give you a heads-up to not take things at face value and possibly dig deeper on an intuitive level to determine what other factors may be motivating people. With a deeper understanding, you will then be able to use this information as you move ahead.

When I mention a conflict in your life, what is the first thing that pops up into your head? Focus on that situation and see if you have moved beyond the original battle or competition that originally presented itself. If so, how can you continue to move forward?

If not, perhaps the Five of Wands (reversed) has to do with hidden motivations. If that is the case, go beyond what you see happening in this area of your life and intuitively dig deeper to "feel" what's really going on. Your intuition will tell you if you simply ask and be open to what comes to you (see, hear, feel, listen, taste, sense, etc.)

The Five of Wands (reversed) feels like a relief at this point in life. You can now look forward to the energy of the Six of Wands which is the "victory" card. After a tough battle (Five of Wands), the taste of victory (6 of Wands) and holding your ground (7 of Wands) are just around the corner. Remember that this too is a cycle, and with the five, you are about halfway there.

Perfect Moment Monday -- Playing Basketball, Now and Then

All three of my sons play on the school basketball team. They've played three games and have five to six more before the final, end of the season tournament.

I played basketball in junior high and high school. We didn't have championship teams, but I LOVED to play...I still do! And I can take on my teenage sons and their friends...and give them a good run for their money. :)

Now, that doesn't mean that I am not sore in really weird places the next day...but I am a tough competitor on the court!

My Perfect Moment Monday post today captures the times when I am sitting in the stands, watching the boys play. I'm as intense as they are -- calling fouls, yelling for them when there is an open pass, reminding them to box out and rebound, and warning them of an oncoming screen.

Going to their games and watching them practice are high points in my week. I LOVE it!

This gives me an entire season of Perfect Moments! Go team!!