Mommy Time Monday; Two of Swords, and a recipe!

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!  This week's card is also part of our Air Element Study, where we will be exploring the Tarot Suit of Swords!

The Ace of Swords

from The Housewives' Tarot by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Books 2004.  (I claim no ownership of this deck or the artwork and share it here as an informational post among friends, no copyright infringement is intended.)

"Conflicts, Opposing views, Impartiality"

"Like Thanksgiving dinner with the in-laws, life can be full of conflicts.  As the blindfolded woman illustrates, it is important to remain impartial when stalemates occur.  The two of swords reminds us that it is seemingly opposing tastes - like cranberry sauce and green bean casserole - that make life more delicious.  After all, if no one wanted the dark meat, there wouldn't be enough light meat to go around."

~ From the Guidebook to the Housewives Tarot by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum. 

The Suit of Swords is related to the Air element; thoughts, communications, decision making, learning, and all things dealing with our Mental Processes.  With the Ace of Swords we faced the seed of an idea, the beginning of a new way of thinking or a new mental journey.  With the Two of swords we reach our first mental crossroads, a choice to be made.  But the lesson here is not really in the choice itself, it's in how you go about making the choice.  There are times when it's good to be impartial, go inside, and really trust your instincts.  The blindfold doesn't necessarily mean that the woman in the card is "blinded" or somehow weakened by her blindfold.  She is learning to trust her other senses more, she is having to carefully weigh out her next move without relying on the sense of vision we so strongly rely on.  This card goes quite perfectly with our week of meditation study; practicing finding that impartial and slightly detached place within can be an important tool for when you face difficult decisions in the future.

Recipe of The Week;

Two of Swords

Quick Dill Pickles

from The Epicurean Tarot Recipe Cards by Corrine Kenner, U.S. Games Systems (I claim no ownership of this deck or the artwork and share it here as an informational post among friends, no copyright infringement is intended.)

"The woman on the Two of Swords seems to be in a pickle; blindfolded, perched on a stormy seashore and forced to balance two deadly weapons.  Honor her spirit with some quick and crunchy dill pickles."

1 dozen large pickling cucumbers

3 quartz white vinegar

3 cups sugar

6 teaspoons kosher salt

3 cloves garlic

9 pearl onions

3 teaspoons pickling spice

3 small bunches dill

6 drops green food coloring (optional)

Wash the cucumbers and quarter them lengthwise.

Pack 12 cucumber spears upright in each pre-sterilized jar.

Bring the vinegar, sugar, and salt to a boil.

Carefully pour the boiling liquid over the cucumbers, filling the jars to within 1/2 an inch to the top.

Add a clove of garlic, 3 pearl onions, a teaspoon of pickling spice, a bunch of dill, and two drops of food coloring to each jar.  

Seal the jars immediately and let cool.

Refrigerate the pickles for at least a week, and serve them withing three weeks.

Mommy Time Monday; Ace of Swords (and a recipe)

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!  This week's card is also part of our Air Element Study, where we will be exploring the Tarot Suit of Swords!

The Ace of Swords

from The Housewives' Tarot by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Books 2004.  (I claim no ownership of this deck or the artwork and share it here as an informational post among friends, no copyright infringement is intended.)

From the guidebook;
"Swords tackle troubles of the mind, quarrels, conflicts, and aggression.  They can represent mental breakthroughs as well as nervous breakdowns."
Ace of Swords Key Words; Challenges, Trials, Upcoming Ordeals
Description;  "Getting right to the point, the Ace of Swords warns of an upcoming ordeal that will test your "metal."  A slice of gumption with a dollop of common sense will get you through whatever trial comes your way.  Your mind is sharp and ready for a challenge, so don't be afraid to take on those who try to cut you out of the picture."

From a Housewives' Perspective; The Ace of Swords represents new beginnings in the realm of the mind.  Our attitude, our thought processes, and new ideas or inspirations.  Any time someone starts to think differently, they start to behave differently.  You might know why you're changing certain behaviors, but you can expect to encounter some resistance from those around you.  This card also deals with choices and willpower.  A fresh start and a fresh attitude has presented you with a world of opportunities.  Like in the picture on this card, there are a multitude of different "cakes" to choose from.  Which will you choose?  Careful thinking before making any rash decision, and not rushing into things is needed.  As well as a strong surge of mental willpower to keep you from just eating ALL those cakes!  There is definitely some synchronicity here between this card, and this week's Fairie Message about Detoxification.  We are starting fresh, in mind, body, and spirit, embracing the new beginnings of Spring!  But we have to keep our minds sharp and our focus on the goal!

Recipe of The Week;

Ace of Swords

Swordfish Baked in Parchment

from The Epicurean Tarot Recipe Cards by Corrine Kenner, U.S. Games Systems (I claim no ownership of this deck or the artwork and share it here as an informational post among friends, no copyright infringement is intended.)

"The Ace of Swords often represents the ability to think clearly and communicate well.  You can help cut through any confusion with this protein-packed main course."

Recipe;
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dill
2 teaspoons rosemary
1/2 cup white wine
1 1/2 pounds swordfish steaks (You may substitute a thick cut of sea bass, halibut, or any other firm white fish)
You will also need parchment paper, foil, and a baking pan.  Preheat oven to 425 degrees (F).
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In a saucepan on medium heat, gently saute' the sliced onion until it begins to turn translucent.  Add the mushrooms and cook a few minutes longer.  Remove from heat.  Add lemon juice, salt, pepper, and dill.
Line a baking pan with cooking parchment.  Pour half the onion and mushroom mixture into the pan, and lay the fish on top.
Pour the white wine over the fish.  Cover with remaining vegetable mixture and sprinkle the fish with the rosemary. 
Cover the pan with cooking parchment, then cover loosely with foil. 
Bake at 425 degrees (F) until the fish flakes easily with a fork.  (about 20 - 30 minutes, depending on thickness of the fish)

The Faith of The Fool

I just discovered The Pagan Blog Project!  I'm a bit late in joining, but I think I'm going to join now!  I was absent from the blogging world for awhile and probably would have seen this if I had been blogging and actually reading the blogs I follow!  But... I guess it's not too late to join in on the fun and sharing!

This week's Pagan Blog Project theme is the letter F.  So, let's get started and explore the Tarot Card - The Fool!

 Major Arcana 0 - The FoolNew beginnings, heading out into the unknown, taking a chance, being spontaneous, following your heart, having faith, innocence, living in joy, releasing worry and doubt, going with the flow, making foolish or childish choices, learning to accept responsibility for your choices and actions.

In the Classic RWS image of The Fool, we find a young Page setting out on a journey.  He seems oblivious to the dangers that might lie ahead, and any wrong step could mean certain disaster.  But I don't think he's unaware of the dangers.... just that he is so excited about his journey and so joyful about the possibilities that his travels will bring, that he is choosing not to focus on the perils.  Some would see this as truly irresponsible, and well.... Foolish.  Others, who more willingly embrace the flow of spirit... they might see this as wise.  I think it all boils down to Faith.  Understanding the basic Law of Attraction, you can't really go into your life journey full of worry and doubt... because then of course your fears can easily manifest.  For me, the Fool serves as a reminder that attitude is everything.  If we can only learn to approach life with the open-heart, trust, innocence, and faith of the Fool, then every step becomes an adventure, every path becomes an opportunity to learn and grow, and we really learn to "go with the flow".

More details on this card here.

Pictured here to the right is The Fool from the Marseilles Deck. 
I look at this card and my first thought is, "Hey, dude... your pants are ripped and your ass is hanging out!"  But then I think, there is something to be learned from this as well.  When you put yourself out there, trusting in the flow of the Universe, there are bound to be times when things just don't go as you had planned.  Sure, if you're focused on the positive, The Law of Attraction will help you out... but this doesn't mean you might not slip and fall or rip your pants and expose yourself as an utter asshole every once in awhile.  The Fool's Journey means NOTHING if he doesn't learn and grow from his experiences.  But the Wise Fool takes what he has, and keeps going.  Is this guy going to give up on his plan to go out into the world full of experiences just because his ass cheek is hanging out?  Nope.  Perhaps he is learning humbleness.  Perhaps he is learning how to laugh at himself.  Perhaps he is learning that no matter where you go, there are butt-sniffing dogs who want to point out your failings. (There is something a lot deeper in that concept for you all to ponder, but let's stay focused.)  Perhaps he just needs to learn how to sew.  But regardless of the setbacks The Fool may face, he keeps going.  What a joyful affirmation of Faith!

Here's another version of The Fool, from the Housewives' tarot.  I have explored the meanings of this Fool in a couple other blog posts.
Here and Here are a couple of them.   The main thing I notice with this version of the card is that, even though this young housewife is obviously ill-prepared and lacking organization, she still seems excited and hopeful for what lies ahead.  In truth, we are never really prepared for what lies ahead... and even the most organized and prepared person will come across things they hadn't expected.  Somehow, a monkey-wrench always gets thrown in the mix, and we are faced with choices or situations we hadn't planned for.  Once again, The Fool reminds us about Faith and being able to Go With the Flow!  Worrying about how things will turn out isn't really going to help anything... sometimes you just have to pull yourself together the best you can and keep going.

Here on the right is The Fool depicted in The Goddess Tarot as Beginnings and related to the Tibetan Goddess Tara.  Tara was born from a Lotus Flower in a lake of tears, and she is considered to be a strong protector Goddess.  "Tibetans believe that the goddess Tara has the power to heal all sorrows and grant all wishes.  Tara is honored as the protectress against the many fears that block men and women from living in happiness and harmony." (from The Goddess Tarot guidebook by Kris Waldherr)  Once again, it comes down to FAITH.  Tara teaches us to let go of our fears and worries, heal our sorrows, and move forward to the new beginnings that we face with faith and trust.  She helps us find happiness, optimism, and trust in ourselves.  I do plan on blogging more about the goddess Tara, as she has been calling to me recently, so stay tuned!



This has been my tarot card for the month of March.  Around the beginning of the New Year, I did a tarot reading for myself in which I drew one Major Arcana card for each month of the coming year.  I have been finding that the messages of each month's card are really fitting my life, and giving me great guidance for my learning and life lessons.

By the end of February I hit a depression that really threw me off balance.  This lasted through the end of February and most of March.  I was struggling just to get through the mundane daily tasks of life, had lost all motivation, had lost hope, and had lost faith.  As the clouds lifted (which took some fighting on my end) I realized maybe I hadn't really lost faith after all... I mean I did keep going and I did keep fighting the depression and exploring ways to get through it.  It took some time and strength, but I got through it.  When I returned to the land of the living, I found a sense of newness in everything.  It is now all opportunities and beginnings everywhere I look.  I think sometimes we have to fall in order to find that sense of starting over.  I slipped and fell off that cliff, a danger that the RWS Fool faces.... but I got up again.  I discovered humbleness and the feeling of my "ass" being exposed like the Marseilles Fool, but now I know I can keep going.  I feel like a beautiful lotus flower has bloomed inside of me, watered by the tears of my sorrow and transformed into something amazing and fresh.... the lessons of Tara becoming clearer to me each day. 

Sometimes when we stumble, maybe it's because the universe needs us to stop, re-evaluate our direction, and start over with the Faith and Innocence of The Fool.  May your road always bring you adventure and growth, and may you be able to face it all with the Faith of The Fool!

Mommy Time Monday - Embracing Your Potential

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

I decided that it was time again to pull out my Trusty Housewives Tarot Deck and do a "Mommy Time Monday" blog.  It's been awhile since I have blogged..... I am sorry for my absence! (I just realized I haven't done a Mommy Time Monday blog since 2011!)  I have been so busy this year; which started out with some amazing spiritual growth and and excitement and then it all sort of fizzled out, I hit overload and my depression and anxiety hit me full force and put me out of commission for awhile.  Slowly I am picking up the pieces.... feeling like myself again... seeing the beauty again!

So I pulled out my Tarot deck and asked for a card that would symbolize the best lesson for me this week.... and not just for me but for others like me who read my blog.  I trust in the Law of Attraction when it comes to my readings; the card that I has the message we need to hear right now is the one that gets drawn, and that those who need to hear it's message will be drawn to read the blog I write on it.  So here we are... and the card I drew is one I drew a few months ago... back in October of 2011.  When I get cards more than once it's usually a sign that I need to spend more time understanding what that card really means as it applies to me, to more fully digest, understand, and implement it's meanings into my life.  Looking at the meanings from The Housewives' Tarot guidebook, I know that things are back in order... I AM in control of my situation and really have things in order to where I can do what I need to do. 

 The guidebook reads;
"You've finally got it all - the doting husband, beautiful children, and the gorgeous home, complete with white picket fence and dog. No more "keeping up with the Joneses." Now the Joneses have to keep up with YOU! The World represents a goal that has been realized, or the successful completion of one stage of life."
More importantly, I think the message here is delivered best by the picture on the card.  A recipe box that is used as an organizer for all aspects of life.  So we might have the plans, the recipes all laid out.... but it's what we DO with what we have that makes a difference.  We might not actually have the gorgeous home with a white picket fence, perfect car, or doting husband... but what are we doing with what we DO HAVE?  I think the message here for us right now is about fully using our resources, skills, talents, and passions to create the outcome we want.  Just having it all does not assure us of a life filled with happiness and contentment.  And some of the most content and happy people have very little... but they find contentment with what they do have, and make it work for them.

The key words for the classic meanings of this card are;

Integrating
Accomplishing
Becoming Involved
Feeling Fulfilled

(More on meanings and interpretations of The World card here)

So it's less about what we have and more about how we make use of what we do have, and how we will accomplish our goals within the restraints of our personal experience.
Yesterday I overheard my husband on the phone, saying something very wise to a friend of his.  (Yes, the man has his moments of brilliance!)  He said, "You don't have money for something, instead of saying 'I can't afford that', you should say 'What can I do to get the money and make it happen?"  He was simply referring to focusing on the solution rather than the problem... which I think is the essence of The World Card. 

In Mary K. Greer's book, "Tarot For Yourself" she lists some questions you can ask yourself for each card, to help yourself fully understand what the card is teaching you and integrate it's meaning into your life.  I would encourage you to ask yourself these questions throughout the week and see where you end up!

What are you doing to free yourself from limitations and restrictions in your life?
Or, what are you doing to work freely within them?
What potential do you see in yourself?
What physical needs must you take care of?
What is making you dance for joy?

I am already beginning to feel a little less restricted and burdened.  Just trying to think of my life, my schedule, my home.... in terms of possibilities and potentials of what I could do.... rather than seeing it all as restrictions and limitations.  I have tools I can use, things I have learned.... from FlyLady advice to my work training, to Meditation techniques and Yoga Poses.... I have a multitude of possibilities on how I can approach each situation I am faced with each day this week.  So what am I going to do with what I have?  And what about you?



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The Housewives' Tarot, by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Publications
I claim no ownership of this deck, it's artwork, or the shared message from the guidebook.
If you would like your own personal reading with The Housewives' Tarot, come check out the Domestic Divination section of my website! Have a Blessed week! ~ Lady Jo

Mommy Time Monday - Turn that frown sunny-side up!

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

Today I drew The Sun... a Major Arcana card that depicts optimism, abundance, and a free-spirited type of joy.  Even though today is cloudy and rainy outside, I am feeling more optimistic and positive than I have felt in weeks, and I hope that you - my readers - will find that positivity and optimism throughout this week as well!
As we prepare for Yule, the Winter Solstice's rebirth of the sun, it's easy to get wrapped up in the stress and chaos of the secular holiday.  Society has twisted the season into a time of greed and mass consumption.  As a housewife it can be easy to be wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of the season.... we are decorating our homes, planning what gifts to buy for the kids, wrapping and hiding presents in the closets, baking cookies, planning for holiday parties, or just plain running ourselves ragged delivering the children to their holiday parties and events.  I feel that this card is encouraging... no - urging us to take a few minutes out of the chaos to feel the warm glow of the spark of light that resides within us... to really feel the rebirth of the sun that happens within us at Winter Solstice.  It is not just an outer thing that happens to the Earth and the Sun, it is a rebirth and a renewal of energy that is reflected in all of life... including you!
As for me, I am feeling very optimistic.  Money may be tight, but it doesn't bother me.  It will come when I need it, just as the sun will return.  What is most important is family... and sharing smiles and simple moments of delight.
So, go ahead... turn that frown upside down and just embrace the optimistic energy of the season!
Blessed Be!
~ Lady Josephine

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The Housewives' Tarot, by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Publications
I claim no ownership of this deck, it's artwork, or the shared message from the guidebook.
If you would like your own personal reading with The Housewives' Tarot, come check out the Domestic Divination section of my website! Have a Blessed week! ~ Lady Jo

Mommy Time Monday - Week of Thanksgiving!

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

This week is going to be a busy one for most of us - whether you are a mom, wife, housewife, or even if you're a dad, husband, or single person of any gender.... it's the week of Thanksgiving!  At least here in the United States it means family gatherings, time off from work, kids out of school.... and lots of food to be prepared and eaten!  So for this week's Mommy Time Monday card I have drawn three cards for us rather than just one!  Happy Thanksgiving!  Let's see what the week has in store for us and what advice our Housewife archetypes have for us! (also, my scanner still is not working.... so these photographs of the cards will have to do!)

Card 1; 5 of PentaclesWhoops!  This housewife is off to a rough start... she's dropping dishes and has broken some of her valuable fine china.  This card represents to financial and monetary setbacks that many of us are experiencing right now.  It's been a rough year and the economy has had more downs than ups and this might be effecting our outlook on the upcoming holidays.  The 5 of pentacles often reminds us that there is more to life than money and struggles... and sometimes it's the simple things right in front of us that will bring us the most happiness.  (see classic card meaning and image here)  I feel this card is warning us that some of our plans for a perfect holiday might experience an upset of some kind... after all... Mercury is in it's slowing stage and will go into retrograde on Thanksgiving day!  But this doesn't mean we should hide in the bomb shelter for the next week... just remember that things usually aren't as bad as they seem!  After all... even though this housewife will now have to go buy a new set of dishes for the big day, I'll bet she ends up happier with her new set than she was with the old one!

The guidebook with this card says; "CRASH!  That's the sound of the stock market - and the stack of dishes you just dropped.  The 5 of Pentacles indicates a heavy financial loss.  What you must remember, however, is that in reality you've lost nothing.  Gravity and misfortune may have claimed your tableware, but it cannot smash your mojo.  Your meatloaf is still unsurpassed, and your pimento-gelatin molds are to die for.  Collect the broken pieces, whip out the Krazy Glue, and get started on repairing the damage."

Card 2; Page of Wands

This little messenger looks like he's here to stir up some trouble!  With family gatherings looming in our futures there's bound to be some Fire Energy... and from the look of this card we may have some unconventional mischief to deal with.  But this page is here to bring us some creativity, and a little bit of fun.  Whatever stresses the holidays bring upon us, it's time to take on the attitudes of this Page...confidence, courage, creativity, and enthusiasm.  He may have ripped his dress pants while riding around on that hobby horse... but it was a sight that the family will be laughing over for years to come!  The Page of Wands encourages us to have a positive outlook and try to think outside of the box to find where our true happiness lies.  Listen to your heart and go for it!  (Classic card image and meaning here) While there may be some setbacks and major stresses this holiday (5 of Wands)... we will do best when we take on the energy and attitude of this card.  And, if you have young children around for the holidays (yours, or someone else's).... enjoy their enthusiasm and let yourself join them in play and imagination.... it will make a difference and you will get thru the holidays AND nurture your Inner Child!

The guidebook from the deck says; "The Page of Wands usually denotes a charismatic child with an active imagination and a wellspring of energy.  A fun-loving explorer, he likes being the center of attention.  He may indicate the need to find a creative use for a skill you long thought merely functional.  This card can also herald the need for growth to bring your dreams into reality."

Card 3; 6 of Cups

Ahhh ... a card of refreshment and enjoyment.  There's nothing like enjoying your favorite beverage... and having enough to share with others! (Classic card meaning and image here)  This card speaks of enjoying the simple things... and enjoying the company of others.  A time of reminiscing over your childhood, exploring traditions, revoking memories, and being reunited with people from your past.  This card reinforces the previous card's advice to nurture and release your Inner Child.... despite the stress of the holidays, try to let yourself just enjoy it, and see it all through the eyes of a child again.  Remember what it was you enjoyed about this holiday before you had to worry about buying groceries, traveling, dealing with in-laws, cooking, and cleaning.  There was a simplicity, beauty, and love in the air that you could taste, see, smell, and actually enjoy because you weren't wrapped up in grown up "reality".  So see it that way again... there's no reason you can't.  Find it in yourself to focus on that energy of Giving and Gratitude, enjoyment of the company of others, pleasure in the little things, and take a walk or two down memory lane!  It's going to be the best way to get through the Thanksgiving Week! 

The guidebook with this card says; "The six of cups conjures up memories of days gone by, youthful expeditions, and long-lost loves.  The "coming home" card, it may signal a reunion with a childhood friend or even the rekindling of old romance.  Pucker up and savor the sweet and sour taste of nostalgia!"

I hope you all have a wonderful, enjoyable, and Safe holiday week!  Enjoy!

-----------------------------------
The Housewives' Tarot, by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Publications
I claim no ownership of this deck, it's artwork, or the shared message from the guidebook.
If you would like your own personal reading with The Housewives' Tarot, come check out the Domestic Divination section of my website! Have a Blessed week! ~ Lady Jo

Mommy Time Monday - The World is Your Recipe Box

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

Well, after trying unsuccessfully for 30 minutes now to upload a picture of this card for you, I now accept defeat by the gods of technology and apologize that you will not get to see an image of this week's card!  I will describe it as best I can, for it's not like the common image of The World card as you will see in other decks.  Behold a simple blue box with a hinged lid... inside you see many file cards and you are reminded of the old recipe boxes that your mother or grandmother had... with recipes written on index cards and sorted by food type.  (You know, back before you could look up any recipe on the Internet) The cards are divided into sections and each section reads; Family, Home, Garden, Money, Auto.  A few cards are pulled out of the box and laid out... one depicting a lovely house with a perfect lawn, one depicting a baby stroller, and another card with a picture of the planet Earth and a Happy Family standing on top of it.

The guidebook reads;
"You've finally got it all - the doting husband, beautiful children, and the gorgeous home, complete with white picket fence and dog.  No more "keeping up with the Joneses."  Now the Joneses have to keep up with YOU!  The World represents a goal that has been realized, or the successful completion of one stage of life."

I know, you're looking around like, "Who, me?"  I know you certainly don't feel like you have it all, and I'm sure you probably feel like your life is pretty far from that perfect family with the picket fence.  But this card indicates that a certain phase of your life has reached completion... another chapter of your book has reached it's end.  Perhaps a certain goal has finally been met, you've learned another of life's important lessons, or you're moving on to another exciting phase of your life.

Let's take a moment to take stock of what we do have, what we have gained, how we have grown, and what we have to be thankful for.  Think back five years ago; ten years ago.  I bet you have many things to be thankful for and many ways to be proud of yourself and how you've grown.  This card is saying, "Congratulations, you've graduated!  What are you going to do next?"  Where we go from here is really up to us.... the next chapter of our book is yet unwritten and we hold the pen and paper.  Or to take the recipe box image from the card on the Housewives tarot.... the next course of the meal is ours to cook and prepare... we have the recipes, we have the ingredients... we've even taken a few cooking classes.... so what are you going to cook next?

-----------------------------------
The Housewives' Tarot, by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Publications
I claim no ownership of this deck, it's artwork, or the shared message from the guidebook.
If you would like your own personal reading with The Housewives' Tarot, come check out the Domestic Divination section of my website! Have a Blessed week! ~ Lady Jo

Mommy Time Monday; Onward and Upward!

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!
This week's card is the 8 of Wands, a card symbolizing growth, travel, and forward movement.  I know I have been feeling a bit swept away by my own projects lately; it's as if my goals have developed a life of their own!  With Mercury moving direct again (it's been retrograde for the past 3 weeks), we are really feeling the freedom of forward movement!  This card encourages us to pursue those goals and really take "off" with our plans and ideas!

The guidebook entry for this card says; "A homemaker soars through the sky on a broomstick, with her other cleaning paraphernalia traveling close behind.  The Eight of Wands represents a busy time of travel, growth, and expansion.  If a trip is in order, you may want to consider flying!  Take charge of the situation and others will follow your lead."  (Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Books)

The classic meanings of this card (pictured here from the Aquatic Tarot) represent rapid growth and development, or coming closer to your goal.  Aligning your values and priorities, journeying, growing, traveling, and being swept up in enthusiasm.  At this time you should ask yourself; "What am I rushing into?  What new direction or growth am I experiencing?  What do I feel the urge to move onto or work on at this time?  What do I need to tell others about?"
Trust that things are going exactly as planned, and even if you can't see it, things are coming together.  Any synchronicity or "coincidences" you experience at this time are just proof and signs that things are coming together for you... so don't just sit there!  Get on your broom and FLY!  It's onward and upward, now or never!!
A great affirmation for this week is; "I respond quickly when the time is right!"


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If you would like your own personal reading with The Housewives' Tarot, come check out the Domestic Divination section of my website!  Have a Blessed week!  ~ Lady Jo

Mommy Time Monday; Be A Star!

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

What are you good at?  Let's ditch the modesty for a moment and just admit our strengths - to ourselves and to those around us!  If you are a parent you know the value of praise, but how often do you really take time to praise your own strengths and talents?  Take a moment right now to write down a few things that you're good at; things that you are proud of.

This week I drew The Star from The Housewives Tarot.  It's time to allow yourself to feel the limelight!  Go ahead and let yourself feel good about your accomplishments, accept the praise of others... and accept the praise from your Higher Self!  If you haven't been doing what you're good at, take time this week to revisit your strengths.  Are you a good cook?  Take time this week to cook up something fabulous and then soak up the praise as you share the meal with others.  If you're a talented writer, artist, or craft maker, take time to make something special.  You know where your talents lie... take time to indulge in your abilities and feel a little pride in what you do!  It will make you feel better about yourself, which in turn helps you be a better mom, housewife, and friend to all those around you!  Just remember there is a thin line between being Proud and being Prideful... let's not gloat!  But I promise you, if you take time to appreciate yourself and do what you do best, the week will be rewarding!

Mommy Time Monday - Queen of Swords

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

Last week was all about Letting Go.  So many people I know were getting the same messages as I was; "Let Go", "Move On", "Clear The Path", etc.  I think this waning moon phase has been preparing us for the powerful energy of the New Moon in Leo which will be on August 30th.  In order for us to fully embrace the power of this new energy, and the Energy Shift that is occurring, we had to first Let Go of what was holding us back.

Now it's time to take control of our situation.  Having Let Go of what no longer suits us or serves us, we must take control of the things in our life that we didn't need to let go of... but things that otherwise may need some control.  And who better to teach us about control than the Queen of Swords?
Good with words, this house-queen is probably head of the PTO, organizer of the church potlucks, with a perfectly pruned garden and strictly run household.  She knows what she is good at and takes control of those areas of her life with confidence.

The Queen of Swords wants to know, what are you good at?  What areas of life do you need to take control of?  What do you need to say or communicate to those around you.  You can't just let your garden grow as it wants to grow... you have to pull the weeds, prune and trim the plants, water it, and communicate to others what you need help with.

If the Queen of Swords has any faults, it's that she can be too sharp-tongued, cold, or stern with others.  She has had her share of hardships and lessons and can sometimes have little patience with others.  As most mothers and housewives know, it's not easy being right all the time!  The Queen of Swords reminds us that while it's important to maintain control, and that being stern or detached are certainly necessary sometimes; we must be careful not to hurt those we love.

I did a lot of letting go this past week... to the point of leaving my job of seven years!  Now I know this week I need to get my affairs in order.  I need to take care of the things that I had neglected before because of work schedules and stress.  My "garden" has been untended and left to grow wild.  I especially need to take care of things that involve communication.  During this time of regaining my focus and control, I need to watch and be careful that I don't hurt my family and friends with harsh words or impatience, yet at the same time, delegate their roles and assert myself as a leader of the household.  What a tricky balancing act!  No wonder the Queen of Swords has such a bad reputation!

A little further study of the Queen of Swords;
The guidebook for The Housewives Tarot by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum says this about the Queen of Swords;
"This Queen has seen her share of hardships and sorrow.  Never fear - she's pulled herself through the dark days by being as tough as nails, with a cast-iron will and razor-sharp wit.  The Queen of Swords keeps a stiff upper lip and holds her head high in the face of adversity.  Unfortunately, she can also be a total bitch.  While it's admirable to seem impervious to enemies, don't unleash that coldness on loved ones."

The Queen of Swords classically represents the combined force of Water and Air.  When the Queen of Swords is using her gifts and character wisely, she is professional, intelligent, self reliant, fair, and just.  She channels thoughts, is able to speak on the behalf of others, and she makes her point well.  If she is unbalanced or using her character unwisely, she can become Ill-tempered, emotional, dependent, intolerant, and vindictive or malicious.



Mommy Time Monday - 8 of Cups Type of Day

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

 Ever wake up and make yourself a pot of coffee, only to realize you don't have any clean coffee cups?  So before you can enjoy your morning cup of wake-up-and-be-human-juice, you have to search the house for cups and wash some dishes... just to get started on your day?  And then, as you're washing that cup... the dreaded sense of DejaVu.  Wait, didn't I just wash these same dishes yesterday?  It's an 8 of Cups type of day.

It's one of those moments when you realize (Painfully) that the system you currently have in place just isn't working anymore.  Something has to change, whether it's your routines, your attitude, or enlisting the kids and hubby to do the dishes once in awhile.... it's apparent that things need to be done a little differently.  When you reach this stalemate, it's important to remember that in order for any new system to take effect, you have to be willing to fully Let Go of that past system. 

It may be time for you to walk away from something in your life.  Because face it, it's just not working out.  It's not that these coffee cups didn't bring you joy (and steaming coffee) in the past... but if they are chipped, cracked, or stained and no longer bringing you joy (just the risk of E-Coli) then it's time to let them go.  Release yourself of this burden.

In my life right now, there are a few things that are just bringing me stress and honestly just not working out anymore.  For one, this summer vacation has been chaotic and completely without structure.  It was fun at first, the kids have enjoyed it.  But I'm getting frazzled with the house a complete mess, the kids living each day without structure.... it's not working out!  It's time for me to pick up the pieces and start adding some major structure to the day... including homework, studying, and chores for the kids.  After all, summer is half over, we might as well get back to living like civilized beings once again!

The other thing that's not working out is my job.  I have worked outside the home as a waitress for all of my adult life... and the past seven years have been with the same restaurant.  In the past, this business has helped me provide from my family in an environment that I enjoyed working in.  This hasn't been true for awhile.  I'm not happy, and I'm not making enough money any more either.  I have already started looking for another job, but I have been frustrated with the lack of responses to my applications and interviews.  This week I was thinking... my attachment to my current job may be part of what is holding me back.  I have to really LET GO, and cut the cords (energetically, etherically, and physically) in order to free myself to go find the next thing that awaits me.  I don't know what that might be, and it's a little scary.  But until I am ready to really let go, I'll just be holding myself back.  This card reminded me that sometimes, no matter how much we have loved or enjoyed something, if it's not serving us anymore, we have to let it go.... but that WE have to be the ones willing to change if we ever want something to improve.

Do you have something in your life that just isn't working anymore?  Is it your job, your routine, a household appliance, a friendship, or even just a bag of clothes in the closet that is never going to fit you again?  If something brings you stress, it may just be time to walk away.  Free yourself.  It might just be incredibly liberating!

Mommy Time Monday - The Fool

Yep... I got this card again.  Last week I didn't draw a card, but the week before I did, and it was this one.... (see my last post).  So, I'm feeling I really need to dig in deeper to the meaning of this card.

As I shuffled I was asking the Housewives to give me a message to help me with my attitude towards housework.  Today, and thru most of last week, I have been slipping.  My motivation is lacking, and my house is suffering.  I'm having these moments of feeling sorry for myself, complaining that I get no help, that it isn't fair, etc.  It's the same story every week.  Thru the week I work hard to get my house in order... the laundry caught up, the bathrooms cleaned, the kitchen cleaned, and whatever extra organizing I can manage, on top of dealing with the kids, cooking dinners, and trying to get the best possible deals with coupons at the grocery store and attempting to balance the budget and make sure the bills are paid.  Sometimes I get along just fine, happy to do my part, enjoying the blessings of being able to do all these things for my family.  But sometimes I just feel bogged down, unappreciated, overworked, and stretched too thin.

The weekends come and go, and for 20 hours of the weekend I am at work, only home on Saturday night to sleep and then back home Sunday evening in time for dinner.  During my absence, the house seems to fall apart.  No one does the dishes unless they need a clean dish to eat off of, no one clears those flat surfaces of junk, no one does any laundry.  Now I can't say I blame my husband... he works all week and deserves to relax on his 2 days off.  But I must admit I have been growing bitter at coming home to such a mess after I spend the weekdays keeping it clean.

So as I shuffled my cards, I asked; what can I do to change my attitude about my situation?  I am not looking to change my husband, I love him the way he is, and I love the other ways in which he provides for me and our family.  But I don't want this bitterness to grow.

The Fool card indicates a new beginning, an new journey of sorts.  It's obvious that the housewife on this card needs to pull herself together a little bit... she's so scattered and a bit un-organized.  Maybe she needs to prioritize.  Maybe she needs a little help.  So, maybe it's not a bad thing for me to ask for help, and maybe I'm being a fool thinking I can handle all of this myself!  The Fool card often indicates a new attitude, new adventure, new journey.  Maybe I'm just going about things the wrong way and I need to re-evaluate and think of things a little differently.  Not that I want to shirk any of my responsibilities.... but maybe an attitude adjustment is in order here.  I can swallow my pride and ask my husband for help... I just have to make sure I choose my words carefully and let him know I do appreciate what he does... while at the same time re-evaluating my priorities and figuring out just exactly where I want to put my energy and what I need to direct my focus on.... so as not to be the fool running around with mis-matched shoes and a trail of chaos!

Weekly Housewives Report 4/18 - 4/22

Weekly Houswives' Report 4/18/2011 - 4/22/2011

The week began and I drew this card for myself from The Housewives Tarot - The Fool.  I could certainly relate to this harried housewife, running around in somewhat of a frenzy, excited about the prospects of her week but just not quite in control.  Like the housewife on this card, the multitude of tasks and responsibilities of the week were just an unorganized mess of plans and emotions.  Once I saw this card I knew I needed to just slow down, simplify, and FOCUS.  Not always an easy thing for me to do!

With the FlyLady.net program this week we were focusing on the Master Bedroom.  I figured that focusing some of my energy on renewing my personal space would be a perfect way for me to slow down, simplify, and prioritize.  When my Bedroom is clean and inviting I tend to spend more time taking care of myself.  I sleep better, I meditate more, and I just feel better!

 So... this area needed some work.  This was my bookshelf next to the bed.  Most of my books were either in the closet or in the computer room because there just wasn't enough room for them here.  I had gotten a new book shelf a couple weeks ago, but hadn't brought it in here yet.  I hadn't really decided if it was going to go in my Master Bedroom or in another room.  But I decided my books and tarot cards needed a better home than their present location, sooo....

 Ta-Da!  Transformation!  ALL my "woo~woo" books in one place!  Now I actually WANT to stay in my room... I mean with all my books straightened and easy to find, I've got my own personal witchy library here and I love it!

 My Tarot and Oracle Card collection... now in it's worthy home that deserves some showing off!

And my Tarot Library!   Still growing... but it just makes me so happy to see all my tarot books in one place, happily on a shelf together with my tarot journals!

The lower shelves contain my spiritual books with topics ranging from Astrology, Meditation, Yoga, Wicca, Witchcraft, and other Pagan Paths.

Tuesday night I had my Yoga Class and our meditation on Awakening your Inner Child.  I was inspired to write a couple blogs about that experience...
Awakening Your Inner Child
Peace of Mind
Thirteen Ways to Awaken Your Inner Child
I was also reminded that as a child, our personal space in the world is our bedroom, it is our sanctuary, our kingdom where our imagination can roam and our play and fantasies really come to life.  This inspired me to keep working on my bedroom, even when it began to look like this.... 

But 30 minutes or so took care of THAT problem....

Ahhh!  Feels so much better now, doesn't it?!?!

I ended the week by getting rid of some clothes from the closets and dressers and immediately taking those clothes to my local Goodwill thrift store.  I got myself 1 new pair of jeans for work, and found a new lampshade to go with the lamp I got at a yardsale... so now my Master Bedroom is not only clean and organized, but well- lit also!  The sheets and comforter have been washed today also, so I'm about to crawl into bed and enjoy the scent of lavender on my sheets as I drift of to sleep in my energetically cleansed sanctuary!

All in all, I think this Fool managed to pull herself together and accomplish exactly what needed to be done!  Now I'm ready for the next stage of my journey, whatever that may be!

Mommy Time Monday - 3 of Cups

Each week (If life permits!) I will draw a card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you! So stop in, grab a cup of coffee, and see what the Housewives have to share with you!

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I've been so busy lately, I've had no time for blogging. Or that's what I've been telling myself anyways. I know, I know.... excuses, excuses! I do apologize for my absence! Anyways, I'm here now, and I have a card for us this week!

Today I drew the Three of Cups. My first thought was, "OK, am NOT pregnant!" But then I remembered that there is more than one kind of fertility, and conception does not always come in the form of a fetus. This makes sense... I have been FULL of new ideas, inspirations, my mind and heart are just OVERFLOWING with this new energy. I think it's part of the season.... SPRING! Spring brings us more than a chance to do Spring Cleaning and plant a garden, but it gives us a renewal of spirit as well. With the sun in powerful fiery Aries, our activity levels will be increasing and inspirations and new ideas abound. So today's card really just accents and confirms this energy I've been feeling. And I know I'm not the only one! So many of my friends have felt this energy - some in the form of a spiritual awakening, some in the form of just plain being BUSY. For some, the change has been an upheaval of sorts, but whatever change has occurred will make way for something new and fresh!

The guidebook by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum says; "3 of Cups; Creation, Change, Conception As two glasses toast, their contents spill into a third. What delicious cocktail will they create? The Three of Cups is a card of creation, the beginning of something new conceived by the mixing of two forces. It may be a wedding, a birth, or just a joyous occasion worth celebrating. Shaken or stirred, your life is in for a significant change."

So what in your life is being transformed, renewed, or created right now? When you found out you were pregnant you started taking prenatal vitamins to help the baby grow and develop. So what steps can you take now to promote the development and healthy growth of the changes within your life?

The classic meanings of this card also emphasize the partnership with others in our life. After all, many new goals and changes take a collaboration of some kind, and the Three of Cups celebrates the changes and creations that are similar to Pregnancy, Marriage, and Friendship. So as you think about what changes are being conceived in your life right now, think about your relationships and the impacts these have on your growth. Take time to celebrate the relationships that improve your life and help you grow! Also, if there are any relationships in your life that aren't worth celebrating (negative relationships that bring you down) then don't feel guilty about putting some distance in those relationships or cutting them out all together. Think of your friends and relationships like those prenatal vitamins.... if they help your growth and encourage healthy changes in your life, take them in large doses and celebrate them! If they bring you down... well that's the same as eating nothing but junk food while you're pregnant... it's not beneficial.

Here's an affirmation for you for the week; "I celebrate my joy and happiness, and I help create positive changes in my life!"

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Want more? Stop by my website and see the new Domestic Divination section! You can get your own tarot reading with the Housewives Tarot and see what advice and motivation The Housewives have for you! http://tarotbyjosephine.webs.com/domesticdivination.htm

Mommy Time Monday - The Empress

Mommy Time Monday! Each week I'll draw and post a tarot card from The Housewives Tarot and share it with you. So go ahead, sit down and take some time for yourself, you never know what inspiration and advice The Housewives may have for you!

This week I drew The Empress. In the Housewives Tarot, this is card 2 rather than the traditional card 3, she has switched places with The High Priestess and comes two cards before The Emperor rather than one. Makes sense, because this deck is geared towards the women, the wives, the mothers; and that's exactly what The Empress is! She is the ultimate mom, wife, and housekeeper! In this card she is an older housewife, one who has the wisdom of experience. She is holding a large book that says "Recipes for Success" and she has a table in front of her with many common ingredients needed for cooking the perfect meal. She not only knows how to run a household, but she is perfectly willing to teach you the ropes and share her recipes and tips with you!

The guidebook says; "Motherhood * Poise * Nurturing *
A feminine force to be reckoned with, The Empress is the earthly mother to housewives everywhere, and she spreads her wisdom of domesticity across the land. Symbolizing your hidden potential, she is warm, comforting, and perfectly poised and coifed, with just a touch of authority to complement her nurturing charm. She has tested each and every recipe herself in her own kitchen, and loves nothing more than sharing the tips and secrets of her success. Follow her instructions carefully, and you're on your way to domestic bliss."

The first thing I noticed as I was looking at this card this morning was that she looks like my grandma. I found this picture of my grandma, and look - they're even wearing the same color and have the same hair style!

My grandma and I were not especially close in life. She lived far away so I grew up without her daily presence, only really seeing her on holidays, vacations, etc... usually less than once a year. When we did see each other, there was sometimes friction, as our personalities often clashed. I think that's because we're both Capricorns... her birthday was the day before mine!

She passed away a little over a year ago, just before Christmas in 2009. The interesting thing is, now I feel closer to her than I ever did before. I can feel her presence with me sometimes, she is checking in on her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I can talk to her more easily now, without the miles separating us. I have found a deeper understanding and respect for her as I learned more about her life. She was a devout Catholic who always attended mass, volunteered at her church and hospital, raised 5 children, and always kept a beautiful home. I talk to her a lot now, asking her how she did it all, and her answer is always "Love".

With this card, I feel like I still have a lot to learn from her, and that I can take a few pages from her book and improve myself as a mother and housewife. With a little bit of poise and stubbornness like my grandma had, I can step into my role as a Capricorn Mom. Volunteer work will satisfy the part of me that wants to spread love and make a difference, and maybe cooking things from scratch and trying new recipes will uplift me along the way, too.

What women in your life do you look up to? Is there a family matriarch that you can learn from? Go ahead and take time to model some areas of your life after the women that you look up to. Take a few lessons from The Empress and you'll be on your way to becoming an Empress yourself!

The Housewives' Tarot, by Paul Kepple and Jude Buffum, Quirk Publications

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Journaling questions for the Two of Pentacles (from Mary K. Greer's "Tarot For Yourself")

* How are your nurturing and mothering qualities being used right now?
* What creative projects are growing and developing?
* What are you attracting to you?
* Who is inspiring and nurturing you?
* How are you indulging your senses?
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Want more? Stop by my website and see the new Domestic Divination section! You can get your own tarot reading with the Housewives Tarot and see what advice and motivation The Housewives have for you! http://tarotbyjosephine.webs.com/domesticdivination.htm

Weekly Housewives' Report 1-23 to 1-29

My week in review!
I feel pretty good about last week's accomplishments so I just thought I'd share them with you, and perhaps pass on some motivation too!
Last week's Housewives Tarot card was the 2 of Pentacles. You can read that post HERE. I really was feeling like the housewife in this picture. With all the duties of mom, wife, work, etc... How was I to balance it all? Just doing the basics seemed like too much to handle. But this card reminded me that I DO have the power and the grace to handle it all. I just needed to balance my time right!
Last week's Oracle Card was "Call On Your Runners". You can read that post HERE.
Flylady's Zone of the week was The Master Bedroom. My bedroom was in serious need of some TLC. I'm a bit ashamed to show you these, but I think many of you can probably relate!

Uhm... yeah, that's my Master Bedroom. This room can quickly become a disaster in my life. It's not a place that needs to be "company ready", because Company, if any is had, would have no need to go in there. It becomes the "Stash and Dash" area. To busy to put laundry away? Stash it in the bedroom. Not sure where to put something, or too lazy to put it away? Stash it in the bedroom. As you can see, this hasn't really worked out.

Another view. As you can see, I couldn't even GET to my closet!

And yeah... this is my Altar area. *Hangs Head In Shame* What a Bad Witch I had become! I have limited space and a need to have my altar kept in the private area of my home, so it doubles as my bedside table. But I shouldn't have let it become so unkempt!

So anyways, I set to work on my bedroom. I took on a "no pressure" type attitude, letting go of perfectionism and just accepting that ANYTHING would be an improvement on what it was. And guess what? It only took about 2 hours to get the majority of that mess cleaned up! Afterwards, I wondered why I had put it off for so long!

Look! I can see the floor!! AND I can get to my closet! The clothes are all hung up and/or folded and put away. The boxes are back where they belong! The top of my dresser is now a perfect place to do my daily devotions or meditations.

I put my journal, a candle, and my fairy clock here, and got rid of all that clutter. The basket on top of my jewlery box is full of my crystals and gemstones, which helps promote harmony and positive energy in the room, and I can even choose a crystal of the day if I want/need one. I aslo ended up putting my God Box here. It wasn't here yet when I took the picture, but I think this is the perfect place for it!

Oh, and my Altar area is back in order. All is as it should be! I've been sleeping better, waking up in a better mood, and all in all I've been more motivated this week. Can't say that this project didn't help!

FlyLady helped too! With her zone projects and "Fly Missions", I was able to get more done than just cleaning up the mess. She had some great suggestions that only took 15 minutes (or less) a day and really helped me Bless my Bedroom!
On Monday I cleaned out under the bed and vaccuumed the whole room.
On Tuesday I cleaned out my sock drawer, threw away old socks and organized it. I even bought myself new socks and did the same with hubby's sock drawer!
On Wednesday I spent more time clearing away clutter on the night stands and tops of dressers.
On Thursday I dusted the room, even wiped down the tops of the door jambs, wiped the doorknobs, windowsills, etc.
On Friday I pretty much had my bedroom nice and clean, so I focused on the small bathroom that is adjacent to the bedroom. I gave that room a good scrubbing and put stuff away that needed to be put away. Now when I go in my bedroom I really feel like it is a relaxing area, both for begnning and ending my day!

It's funny the things we take for granted, and the way that we minimize the importance of having a clean, sacred space to rest. This week, the work I did here in my bedroom was not just a cleansing of the room where I sleep, but it was a major blessing for myself! Giving myself a peaceful environment to sleep, read, rest, get dressed, etc, was a HUGE affirmation of self-love. It gave me a major boost that I really needed!