Tarot For Kids; Ace of Swords

The Whimsical Tarot by Dorothy Morrison is a kid-friendly deck of tarot cards based on Nursery-Rhymes and Fairy Tales.  It is a great Tarot deck for young children, or for the young at heart!  Since our Elemental Studies are geared towards lessons and exercises we can do with our children, I thought that I would share some info from this card deck as we go along.  (On a side note, in this deck the suit of swords is said to represent Fire.  Different decks, depending on their authors and creators may sometimes alternate the association of Swords with Air or Fire, and Wands with Fire or Air.  Even though this deck's book describes this suit to be associated with the Fire Element, I find their meanings ring true for Air Element as well.  For the purpose of solidarity in our studies, we will study the suit of Swords in this deck, despite the differences in the author's view of elemental correspondence.)

Before you begin, you may want to go over The Ace of Swords with your child from my previous post.  Depending on your child's age and level of understanding, interpret as you see fit.

The Ace of Swords

The Whimsical Tarot, by Dorothy Morrison, Illustrated by Mary Hanson-Roberts.  

U.S Games Systems

I claim no ownership or copyright of this image, it is shared here as information between friends!  No copyright infringement intended*

From the guidebook;

Depiction: A Mighty Sword

Description: "The Ace of Swords is perhaps, the most aggressive card in the tarot.  That's because it speaks of strength, courage, and victory.  It drives home the importance of the ability to stand up for what we believe in, and the other things that we, as humankind, hope are in our power to accomplish.  For this reason, The Ace of Swords is always shown as a sharp. double edged blade - the standard weapon of choice in many ancient wars.  As symbolized by the dragon's head hilt, this particular blade is one of ferocity and experience.  It knows what it is to go to war, fight courageously, and return.  It knows the glory of winning, and power and freedom of victory.  But it also knows the pain of defeat and has experienced the darkness of poor planning. All of this makes for a very balanced blade."

Advice: "When the Ace of Swords appears in your life, you have achieved some sort of victory.  Get out the laurel wreath and prepare an acceptance speech for your rewards.  This is a turning point in your life, a day you will always remember.  It commemorates a time to take up a cause, fight courageously for it's principles, and win against all odds.  Remember what it takes to be a good winner.  Give some thought to your opponent or the crisis you face.  Remember too, that the Ace of Swords is not only razor sharp and bears a double edge, but it is much heavier than it's counterpart, the fencing blade.  Understand that a great deal of strength and responsibility is necessary to wield it with grace and honor.  With that in mind, make sure you are up to the task before you grab it's hilt.  If you are, it will always serve you well.  If not, you may just slip and cut your own throat."

~ Dorothy Morrison

Take a look at the words in bold print.  These are some of the key meanings of this card.  Keep in mind that this sword does not actually represent physical fighting or aggression and violence.  This is more of the fight of willpower, the fight of the mind, the intellect, and the power of words.

Have you ever heard these phrases?
"Sharp-witted"

"Sharp-tongue"

"Words are like a double edged blade."
"Cut to the truth of the matter."

Think about these phrases for a few minutes.  Write down what you think they mean before you continue reading.

----

----

----

----

----

----

----

"Sharp-witted" is a way to refer to someone who is witty and smart, usually very quick to speak.  Someone who is referred to as "Sharp" in this way is usually very intelligent and good with words.

"Sharp-Tongue" - Words can hurt.  When someone is called sharp-tongued it means that their words are often hurtful, spiteful, or cruel.  They use the power of their words to cut people down.  When you read the above advice about the Ace of Swords, it said a great deal of strength and responsibility is necessary to wield your sword with grace and honor.  Your sword is your words, your voice.  Are you using it with honor and responsibility?  Are your words kind, or are you sharp-tongued?

"Words are like a double-edged blade". - just like above... words can hurt.  Your words can cut other people's feelings.  But a double-edged blade means that there are two sides of this sword that are sharp.  If one side is cutting someone else, the other side can cut you.  When you use negative words, it hurts others, but it also hurts YOU.  Like attracts like.  What you say about others can come back on you and hurt you.  Also, what you say about yourself can be just as hurtful.  Try not to speak poorly of yourself, criticize yourself, or put yourself down.  They may feel like "Just words", but they cut you very deeply.  And with the double-edged blade, when you speak badly of yourself, it also hurts the people who love you... because they just want you to be happy and know that you are loved.

"Cut to the truth of the matter."  Why do you think the imagery of "cutting" is used in reference to finding the truth or gaining knowledge?  You don't actually have to CUT anything when you are learning, studying, and seeking the truth.  But the phrases "Cut to the heart of the matter," "Cut to the truth of the matter," and "Cut to the chase" all deal with finding truth and getting to the point.  This just goes to show how human kind associates the Mind and Words with Swords!  It's like we see problems like Fog, restricting vines in a jungle, or ropes that bind us.... but we know that if we use the power of our Mind and our Words, we cat slice through the vines, cut through those ropes, and fight our way through the fog to find the truth!

Your words and thoughts are powerful.  You have just been given a very powerful sword.  If you use it wisely and responsibly, you may someday be Knighted or become a King or Queen!  Your journey through the suit of Swords and the Air Element has begun! 

Elemental Studies Series!

My oldest daughter has been learning about Pagan Spirituality, Wicca, Witchcraft, Tarot, and Astrology with me off and on for quite awhile.  She wanted to get serious about her studies, so I started creating "lesson plans" based on learning some basics in the books she has, and my own collection of books as well.  Recently we decided that we would start learning about the Elements - one at a time and really getting into each element in depth!  So I have lots of lessons, activities, crafts, and spells planned out for us to do together.  I realized this would be a great blogging opportunity - to write about what we are learning and what we experience!  I am hoping many people will want to follow along... these lessons will be great for beginners, and for those who have been following a Pagan Path for many years!  They will be kid-friendly so if you have children that you are raising on a Pagan Path, this will give you some guidelines and lessons to follow to help them learn about each element.  We are so excited to be starting this series!

Our first element of study, since it is Spring here in the Northern Hemisphere, will be the AIR ELEMENT!  "Lesson One" will be posted soon!!  I hope you will join us and would love to hear your feedback!  The first thing I suggest you get is a 3-ring binder or a notebook, if you don't already have a "Book of Shadows" or a Grimoire to use.  You will end up with a whole section dedicated to the Air Element, Air Magick, Air Meditations, and your own personal experiences!  So who's with me?  Let's get started!!

FlyLady - Pagan Style; Welcome Letter

For those of you who don't know what FlyLady is, it's an inspirational website designed to help you clean and de-clutter your home and your life.  It helps you create routines that work for you, your lifestyle & your family to help housekeeping become stress-free and something you just do naturally and daily rather than something you put off until the last minute and then stress about when you have company coming over.

I have found the FlyLady system to be a wonderful and positive way to get my life in order, although admittedly, I haven't followed it as closely as I could have!  I have "fallen off the bandwagon" more than a few times!  Yet one of the great things about FlyLady is that you can jump back in at any time!  With FlyLady, I always know exactly where to start!!

Over the years, I have found ways to integrate my spirituality into my household cleaning.  Wait, did I just say that House Cleaning is Spiritual?? Yes, it can be!  I am a Pagan, more specifically an eclectic Neo-Pagan, meaning that I draw from MANY spiritual paths which focus on Nature and the natural cycles of the world we live in.  For many Pagans and Witches, our homes are the central place of our worship, our spiritual learning, our meditation, etc.  Since we don't have Churches to go to, and we don't limit ourselves to only experiencing nature when we are outdoors, it makes sense to think of our homes as our "Temple", or our Sacred Place.  Many Pagans and witches also believe that their spiritual path is a Lifestyle, not just something they do once a week or on the Blessed Sabbats or the Full Moon.  I have found through FlyLady and my own spiritual path, that even the mundane, daily tasks that come with being a wife, a mother, and a housekeeper, can be beautiful parts of my daily Spiritual Life, and I wanted to share with you some ways that I have done this.

I will be going through the different aspects of FlyLady, and talking about how I apply them to my own life as a Pagan.  Today we begin with The Welcome Letter!

When you first join FlyLady you get a Welcome Letter. (and by the way, if you follow my blog, please join FlyLady or at least bookmark the FlyLady website for reference!)  This letter explains the basic idea behind the FlyLady program and how it works.  Please click the Link and read the welcome letter for yourself!!

The first thing you read is what FLY means.  It means Finally Loving Yourself!  All the great spiritual teachers of our time and times long past have taught us that without first Loving Ourselves, we cannot truly love others.  Buddha, Paramasana Yogananda, The Dalai Lama, Ghandi, Jesus, Doreen Virtue, Dr. Wayne Dyer, Sonia Choquette, Louise Hay, Starhawk... to name a few; all teach us that when we truly see ourselves as Divine Children of God/Goddess/The Universe, we begin to truly love ourselves and then the flow of love to others and from others comes more naturally!  With the basic Law of Attraction, if we Love Our self, we invite Love into our lives.  This isn't meaning a type of love that involves vanity or a feeling of self-importance in that we are better than anyone else.  We are all children of the Divine!  But if you don't love yourself the way you love your own children; unconditionally - then you block the flow of true Divine Love from flowing to you and through you!  Without loving yourself, you are constantly criticising yourself, seeing the negative instead of the positive.

When you FLY, you embrace the positive and develop a desire to bring more positive into your life.  When you FLY, you want to eliminate the negatives to make room for the positives.  Maybe you have too much clutter.  Maybe you keep a clean home, but neglect taking care of yourself.  Perhaps you are really good at keeping parts of your home clean and orderly, but there are certain areas that build up and become a source of stress for you.  Maybe you procrastinate and let things build up to the point where it creates stress and a burden upon yourself and your family.  When you FLY, you look around your home and you think, why I am I letting myself - a beautiful Child of The Divine - live in chaos?

FlyLady's Welcome Letter explains that by taking one step at a time, the program will help you build daily routines and weekly plans that will help you run your household more efficiently, thus relieving yourself of stress.  If you embrace the ideal of FLYing (Finally Loving Yourself), then the desire to do this grows stronger.  Building routines takes time, and patience with yourself.  You have to work on developing new habits, slowly, piece by piece; trusting that eventually you will overcome whatever difficulties you may face.  The FlyLady program will help you develop these new habits and new routines, or build on the routines you already have in place.  It starts with the BabySteps, and onward to Daily Flightplans and weekly "Zone Missions", all of which are described in detail on the FlyLady website but I will (hopefully) also cover here - with a Pagan Twist!

Whether you are new to FlyLady, or have been doing it for awhile, take some time today to think about how you Love Yourself.  Are you really acting in ways that show self-love?  Are you being really hard on yourself, criticizing your failures and shortcomings?  Think about your inner voice - is it Loving towards you, or mean?  Would you talk to your child the way you talk to yourself?  How is your self-love reflected in your Daily Life at home?  Are you avoiding things that stress you out?  Is this avoidance just creating more stress and more critical self-talk?  The first step to changing negative self-talk to positive self talk is to be AWARE of your self talk.  Listen to your inner voice, and when you find it being un-loving to yourself, stop and think something positive instead.  Changing your self-talk is something that will take time, and take practice, starting with Awareness and Intention!

Here is a wonderful video of affirmations that will help you increase your self-love, by Doreen Virtue. 

 

Blessed Be!

Parenting with the 5 Love Languages

I recently read the book 'The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman and it really inspired me to be a better wife and learn how to show my husband love in the way that he will fully appreciate and understand.  For anyone in a relationship I would recommend that book and I think that knowing and understanding the 5 Love Languages can improve all of your relationships!  While I was reading that book I was thinking a lot about how I could apply the concept with my children, and I was pleased to find that there is a book written specifically about using the 5 love languages with children!  I have been reading through this book and it has left me with a lot to think about, and it has definitely inspired me to be a better parent to my three children!e

You can find this book on Amazon!

This book explains the 5 Love Languages in detail, so even if you haven't read the first book you will gain a good understanding of them.  Each chapter goes over a specific love language and how you can express that language to children.
The Five Love Languages are;
Physical Touch
Gifts
Acts of Service
Words of Affirmation
Quality Time
you can read more about each love languages here.

One of my favorite concepts of this book is that all of us have "A Love Tank", and like a car if it is full of gasoline it will run better, but if it low or empty it will begin to have problems.  The Five Love Languages give us clues and tips as to how to help fill the "Love Tanks" of our family members.  With children, when their Love Tank is full they will be a lot more receptive and less defiant.  If their Love Tank is empty or low they will begin to act out as a way of testing whether or not you really love them, or out of fear or anger that their emotional needs are not being met.  Additionally, knowing their Love Language will help you know what you can do to fill that Love Tank!  It's like knowing what kind of gas or oil your car needs for optimal performance... if you keep filling it up with the wrong stuff, you may be wondering why it isn't performing well enough or having problems.  You may say "I Love You" to your child every day but if they aren't receiving love from you in the Love Language that they understand, they may be doubting your words, because they just don't feel it.
Another main point I have gathered from this book is that children need to be loved in all five love languages.  This not only helps ensure that their Love Tank is full, but it teaches them the value of all the different ways to express love and helps them become more balanced individuals.  The difference is you should focus on giving them "an overdose" of love in their primary love language, as this is what will mean the most to them and truly speak your love to them loud and clear.
Figuring out your child's Love Language isn't easy.  The book does include a quiz (also found on this website) but relates that the best way to actually figure out your child's primary love language is to watch your child's reaction to the different love languages as you express them.  Once you figure out what your child's primary love language is, continue speaking all five love languages but make sure you give them "extra" of their primary love language.

Here is a list I compiled of ways to express each of the 5 Love Languages.  I wrote this list with my own children in mind so feel free to come up with your own and add to the list!

Speaking The 5 Love Languages to Childrenexpress your love in these 5 ways every day!

Physical Touch;Hugs, Kisses, Pat on the back or head, Back rub, Back scratch, massage, foot rub, Brush their hair, paint their nails, manicure or pedicure, hold hands, cuddle, tickle, wrestle (physical play), have child sit in lap while watching tv or reading a book.

Words of Affirmation;Specific compliments, "Good Job", Thankyou's and words of gratitude, specific praise for accomplishments, randomly tell them something you like about them or some way you are proud of them, say "I love you" often and with inflection, play the "I Love You because..." game (go back and forth with parent and child exchanging words of why they love each other.)

Gifts;Gifts for no reason (does not have to be costly!), special surprises, gifts and cards on special occasions, make a gift of picture for the child, make a collage of photos of the child or a special time you had together, love notes (hidden in lunch boxes, backpacks, or bedroom where the child will find them), stickers, rewards, hide a gift to be found and give the child clues on where to find it, gift of a movie or trip to a favorite restaurant, make every day items a "present" by how they are given (If you wrap up that new toothbrush or those new socks, the "giving" becomes the focus!)  The gift of an ice cream cone or a Popsicle!

Acts of Service;Help with their homework, help with a project, brush their hair or give them a manicure or massage, make a special snack for them, make their favorite meal, help them learn a new skill, help them study, help them fix things, help them clean their room or help them with their chores.

Quality Time; Read together, watch movie or tv together, play a board game or cards, spend extra time at bedtime to tuck in/say prayers, set aside daily time to talk together, do a puzzle, make a meal or snack together, do arts and crafts or coloring together, do chores together, eat together, take walks or hikes or bike rides together.

Obviously there are so many ways to express each love language!  I really encourage any parent to read the book to understand the full nature of the Love Languages and how they should be used.  I have found it inspiring and I am (slowly but surely) changing some of my own behaviors in order to better fill those "Love Tanks" of my children!

The book also covers how the love languages are important in other areas of parenting, such as discipline, anger, and even in how a child learns.  It has a chapter on Love Languages for single parent homes or divorced parents too.  Learn more here.... http://www.5lovelanguages.com/

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 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

-------------------------------------------------

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?
--------------------------------------------------------------

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 - 2 of Pentacles

Mommy-Time Monday!
Housewives' Card of the Week
2 of Pentacles

I thought I'd start something new and every Monday draw a card from my Housewives Tarot deck for some good housewife/mommy type advice for the week ahead. I might not get around to posting every Monday, we'll see how it goes. But just like with my Tuesday's Oracle posts, these cards are not just for me, but for anyone who might come across them!

This week's card is the Two of Pentacles.
From the guidebook by Jude Buffum and Paul Kepple;
Keywords - Balance, Responsibilities, Pressure
"Like juggling priceless porcelain plates, balancing the responsibilities of a housewife and the pressures of a business takes grace and determination. The Two of Pentacles is about maintaining a balance, even when you've got a snot-nosed brat tugging at your right leg and a belligerent cocker spaniel chewing on your left. Don't despair, the babysitter will be here at five o'clock sharp!"

Boy do I know what it's like to be trying to balance so many aspects of your life!! Last week it all got to me, or should I say, Clinical Depression and PMS got to me, and I couldn't keep the balance. I slacked off on my housework, my mommy duties, and even my self-care and spent most of the week either sleeping or reading. This week I'm ready to try and get my house, and life, back in balance! This card is a good reminder that I need Grace and Determination to manage a household, but I also need to keep MYSELF in balance. The housewife on this card is still dressed fashionably, and seems to have a style of her own... she hasn't let her duties stop her from taking the time to express herself. (On another note, her hair is red, and I just dyed my hair red last week!!) So while it may be tempting to jump all gung-ho into the housework, getting organized, balancing the checkbook, printing coupons, etc... let's not forget to do it all with our own personal style and grace, and take the time for our personal life as well. Like the housewife on this card, do it with a smile, dance, laugh!

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

-------------------------------------------------

Journaling questions for the Two of Pentacles (from Mary K. Greer's "Tarot For Yourself")
* What two or more situations are you handling with ease?
* What are you adapting to?
* What do you want to change in your home, profession, status, finances, etc?
* What are you juggling in order to keep stable (money, weight, lifestyle)?
* In what ways do you play and use your excess energies?
* What calls for diplomacy? (And Grace?) (Or determination?)

Parenting Astrologically - part 1 - Delineate!

As an aspiring Astrologer, I find the many subjects and aspects of Astrology fascinating, and I still feel that there is So Much to learn! Really, one could spend a lifetime just exploring one Natal Chart with all it's nuances and intricacies! My interest in Astrology ebbs and flows - sometimes I feel ready and motivated to dive into it's depths, and other times I feel too overwhelmed. (Interestingly enough, the flow of my interest has a strong correlation with current moon and sun sign activity; yet another subject to add to the list of things to explore!)
As a mother, I have a strong interest in understanding my children's charts. Theoretically, understanding your child's astrological personality; and how it relates to yours, could be an amazing parenting tool. There are surprisingly few books and websites about using astrology in parenting or with children, but I hope to write a series of blogs here with my thoughts and findings as I explore my children's natal charts.
So, last night I stayed up late, looking over my first-born's chart. As I said before, I feel that one could spend a lifetime just analyzing one chart, so I realized I needed to organize my thoughts and have a purpose here rather than just breaking it down. I want to be able to understand my daughter, and hopefully her chart can help me understand the bits of her personality that mystify and confuse me. I mean, 11 years old is a very confusing age! How can I, a Capricorn, help my pre-teen Aries through the difficult and confusing times ahead of her? (Middle School, boys, friends, High School?? EEk!!) Where to begin? "DUH... "I thought to myself. "Begin at The Beginning! DELINEATE!"

To Delineate an astrological chart, you simply break down the signs and planets into Qualities - namely Elemental and Triplicities. This will be part one of exploring my Miss Zee's chart and my own.
Here is Miss Zee's Chart -

Breaking It Down


THE ELEMENTS
Miss Zee is an Aries Sun(Cardinal Fire), Leo Rising (Fixed Fire), Aquarius Moon (Fixed Air).
She has a dominance of Fire Signs (5/13), with her Sun, Jupiter, Ascendant, and Pluto all in Fire Signs. Fire Signs are Active, Enthusiastic, and Independent. Fire signs enjoy being leaders or the center of attention, are very passionate and can have "fiery" tempers. Her Sun and Ascendant in Fire Signs tells me that the Fire Aspects of her personality are quite strong and this is how she will be seen by others and Fire Energy is how she will react to most situations.
Miss Zee also has some strong Air Sign Qualities, with her Moon, Uranus, and Neptune in Air Signs. Air Signs are intellectual, valuing communication, learning, and relationships. This tells me that Miss Zee's fiery passions and enthusiasm will likely be focused in areas which involve learning, intellect, and friendships and family relationships. With her Moon in an Air sign I can see that this intellectual side of her is more a part of her Inner Self, her "shadow self"... not a part that she will always show; but a part that drives her nonetheless.
Though Miss Zee only has two planets in Water Signs (Mars and Mercury) - one of these two planets has heavy weight in her chart. Mars is the ruler of Miss Zee's Sun Sign, Aries. This tells me that her the Active, Enthusiastic, Leadership qualities of her Aries personality are often driven by the Emotional, Intuitive, and Nurturing qualities of Water Energy.
The Elemental Energy that Miss Zee would have trouble accessing is Earth Energy. Venus and Saturn are the only two planets of her chart that reside in Earth Signs, and neither one of these planets have especially heavy weight in relation to her Sun, Ascendant, or Moon. A lack of Earth Energy reflects a certain lack of stability and practicality, and certainly explains her daydreaming, over-active imagination, hyperactivity, and trouble getting grounded or centering her energy.

As an Earthly Capricorn, I'm sure that this lack of Earth energy in my daughter is a big part of what can be so frustrating for me when dealing with her. Recognizing this huge difference in our Elemental make-up will definitely shine a light on some intricacies of our Mother-Daughter relationship.

TRIPLICITIES
Miss Zee is predominantly a Fixed sign. With her Ascendant, Moon, Venus, Mars, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune all appearing in Fixed Signs within her chart, there is no question that these aspects will strongly appear within her personality. Fixed signs are stubborn, resistant to change, perfectionists and like to see things through to the end. They are not usually the initiators or leaders, but once placed in a position of leadership or authority they will see things through to the end. With a lack of Mutable and Cardinal Energy, Miss Zee may at times be shy, and lack a certain versatility and adaptability. It can be hard for fixed signs to adapt to change.


Let's take a brief look at some of the Qualities of my own chart;


Lady Josephine;

I have a Capricorn Sun (Cardinal Earth), Capricorn Ascendant (Cardinal Earth), and Scorpio Moon (Fixed Water)

I have a heavy dominance of Earth Signs (7/13) with my Sun, Ascendant, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn in Earth Signs. The ruler of my Sun Sign (Capricorn is ruled by Saturn) is one of these planets in Earth, giving quite Heavy weight to my Earth Energy. This abundance of Earth energy makes me Practical, Stable, Grounded, and focused on success.


The other elements are not nearly as strong in my chart, but Water is the next in line for influencing my personality - but only because of the heavy weight of the presence of my Moon in Scorpio. My Inner Self, my "shadow self" is driving by the watery energy of emotion, intuition, and nurturing qualities. It seems that Miss Zee and I have this underlying Water energy in common, though hers is expressed through Mars and mine is expressed through the Moon.

I have a definite lack of Fire Energy in my chart - with Neptune being the only planet present in a fire sign, and not a very influential or "heavy" planet at that. Perhaps this is why, although I love my daughter with all my heart, I can find her quite exhausting to be around. Her fiery enthusiasm and energy tends to confuse and bewilder my Earth energy, which prefers to be more contained and steady.

TRIPLICITIES -
My Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable aspects are more balanced. With only slightly more weight given to Cardinal Energy due to my Sun and Ascendant being Cardinal Capricorn, this is the slightly more dominant part of my personality; giving me Enterprising, Initiating, and Outgoing traits. There is a balance between my Mutable and Fixed energies, indicating that I can adapt when needed, but I can also resist change and be stubborn at times. This balance among these astrological triplicities can probably be both one of my greatest strengths and greatest weaknesses as a parent. I am adaptable and can change my reactions and actions, but this may also mean that I am not consistent, and we all know that children crave consistency - something that may be especially important to my "Fixed Sign" daughter.

CONCLUSION -
As you can see, you can learn a lot by simply delineating a chart. I haven't even begun to explore the positions of the planets in individual signs, Chart Type, Decantes, Aspects, etc. Yet the basic understanding of the Elemental differences between my chart and my daughter's chart lays the groundwork for a more complete understanding of our relationship. It begins with understanding the relationship between Fire and Earth (our dominant elemental energies). Think about how Fire and Earth act together in the physical world. Fire is a neccessary part of the life cycle on Earth. With fire we find comfort, cook our food, and protect ourselves. Yet if it is not contained, fire can destroy Earth, burning up all it's nutrients and rescources. On the other hand, Fire needs Earth.... without Earth providing the fuel, fire cannot burn. Interestingly enough, Earth can be used to put out fire, shoveling scoops of dirt onto a flame to smother it is one of the most efficient ways to put out a fire.
With Fire and Earth, it is a delicate balance. They need eachother, yet they can just as easily destroy eachother. My challenge as a parent of Miss Zee will be to nurture her and help her find balance and stability as she lacks that Earth energy; yet at the same time to avoid being "burned up" by her fire energy and to avoid "smothering" her flame with my Earth energy. I know that at times over the past 11 years I have failed at finding this balance in many ways. Yet maybe now, understanding the root of this imbalance and the nature of our differences and strengths, we can work together to find balance and support eachother in a way that only Fire and Earth could do! With an understanding of the relationship of our delineated charts, I also recognize that it is important for me to let my little Fire sign explore her independence and to not be too controlling (and yes, as a Capricorn Mom, sacrificing control can be very challenging!). It is also important for me to be understanding that my daughter's Fixed nature requires patience when it comes to any change in routine or environment, and that consistency will be something that gives her comfort. Giving her the opportunity to act and react independently, but acting as a gentle and patient guide and a stable place to find comfort and strength is what she needs from me as a parent.

Poop.

Yes. Poop has been the recurring theme of my day. As a mom, I'm sure you've had one of these days too. As I wash my hands, again, I am asking myself, "Why?" What have I done to incur the wrath of the Sewage Monster?

First thing, to start my day, I woke up knowing that the time had come for decisive action. My 4 year old son, who had not pooped in 3 or 4 days, woke up with his stomach hurting. The extra water and fiber I had been giving him for the past 2 days had not yet yielded any results, and I knew it was time to pull out the heavy artillery. Fleet's Pedia-Lax mini Liquid Glycerin Suppositories. I've had this box of child's size mini enema things in the back of the bathroom cabinet, hoping I would never have to use it..... Well, I'll spare you the details but within 10 minutes my son was feeling much better, though quite shaken and a little sore.

Having dealt with this mini emergency first thing in the morning, before my coffee was not the greatest way to start my day, but I pushed through, emerging with a smile to help my older children get ready for school. This included curling their hair with the curling iron because it was picture day. Hurrying around the house trying to find backpacks and jackets in order to make it to the bus stop on time, a horrible smell reached my nostrils....

I quickly found the source of the smell, in the middle of the hallway. Dog Poop. Not only dog poop, but Stepped In dog poop. Tracked from the hallway, to the kitchen, through the Dining Room, and onto the Living Room carpet. There in the living room stands my six year old daughter, oblivious, and the dog, looking guilty. Okay.... I can handle this. Deep Breath. Ooops, don't take a deep breath, it stinks in here. Hold your breath. Wipe the poo off my daughter's shoes with a paper towel, then pick up most of what I n from the floor. The rest will have to wait because we're going to miss the bus if we don't go Now.

Okay. A walk was nice. Back home, I mop the floor. Muttering to myself because I just mopped this floor yesterday. Of course.

My son is hungry today. Guess that he must be feeling better. Later, a friend shows up and we decide to go to the Mall. Just walk around and get some lunch. It was nice to get out of the house, have some adult company for awhile. Don't get me wrong, I had a good day, but while we were at the mall I began to notice the recurring theme. On our way into the store, a dirty diaper laying on the curb and I almost walked into it. Nice. In the mall, my son suddenly starts having stomach cramps and we have to run to the back of a department store so he can use the bathroom there... not a fun experience for either of us.

At home, much later in the day, I walk outside to see what the kids are doing in the back yard, and you guessed it... I stepped in dog poop. *SIGH* Well, at least it wasn't in the house, and out here I can use the grass to wipe my feet and not track it through the house. At least it was me and not one of the kids who would have tracked it through the house... I think I would have had a melt down.

Then, just a few minutes ago, my son screams, "I HAVE TO POOP!" But my husband is in the bathroom. I try to urge my son to use the other bathroom, but he refuses... he wants his Spongebob toilet seat and his step stool, remembering the horror of the bathroom at the mall where he had to use the "big" potty. Of course, he didn't make it. So here I am again, helping him change out of his underwear and using half a roll of toilet paper to clean him up, asking myself, "WHY?"

But you know, sometimes being a mom is all about Poop. Makes us appreciate the times when it is about bruises, or snacks, or cartoons, or kisses. It made me thankful that none of my kids are in diapers anymore, a time when I dealt with Poop a lot more often... and perhaps I had forgotten. It reminded me of how much they have grown up, how much we have all been through, and that if a little poop every now and then is the worst I have to deal with, then I am truly Blessed.

Winter Solstice with my daughter

I had not planned anything for Winter Solstice this year. With everything else going on; packing for our move, my grandmother's passing, and being generally to busy and stressed - I just figured I would wing it this year with some prayer and meditation.

Monday my parents were here. I was getting ready to drive them to the airport - they are going to my grandma's funeral. We exchanged some gifts, as they won't be here for Christmas this year, and inevitably - we talked about grandma. My 6 year old had some questions about death, and my mom was telling her that "Grandma is in Heaven with Jesus now." I don't mind that my kids are exposed to my mom's faith... I think that being exposed to many different beliefs will help them find their personal path when they are older. Now, my mom has no idea what my spiritual beliefs are, and I prefer to keep it that way. Long story short - she is Southern Baptist to the core, and I would prefer to keep my relationship with her in good standings.

Anyways, here we are talking about Grandma and Heaven, and my oldest daughter, 10 - says, "Yeah, but she doesn't have to stay in Heaven. She can be born again as a little baby and have a new life, but she won't remember us if we meet her." (I am choking on my tea.) My mom, says "What?? What are you talking about???" and gives me that questioning/scared/worried/disapproving look that only a religious mother can give. Miss Zee, confused, says, "You know mom. What's it called again when we are reborn?" (Quick, come up with a cover story! The last thing my mom needs to worry about at her mother's funeral is the state of her daughter's eternal soul...)

"Um, yeah, honey. It's called Reincarnation." I smile reassuringly to my daughter even though I have been screaming shut up shut up shut up inside my head. Then I turn to my mom, "Because, you know, she is curious about different beliefs, so I told her about them." My mom, still unsure and frowning, says "Oh-kayyyy....."
Awkward Silence....

Anyways... somehow or another someone changed the subject. We visited some more, and then Dad decided it was time to go. Dreading the long drive to the airport with my parents, I spontaneously invited my oldest daughter to come along for the ride. She was more than happy to come along, though she didn't know it would take over an hour to get there. I dropped my parents off, we hugged and exchanged our final tears and goodbyes. I wish I could go to my grandma's funeral, but life and kids and finances.... *sigh*... she understands and knows I would be there if I could.

Anyways, on to my story. Back in the car with my daughter, starting the long drive back home, I decide I might as well talk to her about what happened earlier. I have told her in the past that I would prefer it if she doesn't mention mommy's beliefs or "Wicca, magic, or cards", around her grandma... but I hadn't fully explained why. Apparently now was a good time to go over this with her again, before she decides to out me completely. We talked about how I have different beliefs than grandma, and that's OK, everyone is entitled to different beliefs. But some people think that their religion is the only "right" one, and other beliefs scare them or bother them. I was happy to find that my daughter feel that this kind of judgement is "Totally unfair and not cool."- Then I had to explain to her that her grandma is one of those people who just doesn't understand, and no matter how you try to explain things to them, they may never understand. I found myself, driving down the interstate at 7 pm on Winter Solstice, having an amazing conversation with my ten year old daughter about religious diversity.

Then, another amazing thing happened. I was telling her that Grandma is not wrong or bad for believing the way she does, but she might be very sad or upset if she knew that I didn't believe the same thing as her. My daughter said she understood, and she likes reading the bible and going to church with grandma... "But, I want to learn more about what you do, because I think I believe in that." I told her, "You don't have to believe in something just because I do. I want you to learn about many things and decide for yourself." She said, "I know mom, but I want to learn more about Wicca. I mean, I know how you pray and use candles and crystals and cards but I want to learn about that stuff." I'm trying to make sure I'm in the right lane for our coming exit - while smiling and feeling so proud and happy at the same time, and I tell her, "Yeah? No problem.. you're getting bigger now anyways... I can teach you about that stuff. And you can ask me questions about it at any time - I hope you have always known that."
"Yeah mom, I know. But I'm curious now and I want to learn more."

"Okay... I've got something we can learn about right now. Do you know that tonite is a special day for Wiccans? Tonite is the Winter Solstice"
"Ooooh, I've heard of that! We put decorations of the Sun on our tree for that... what else does it mean?"

I went on to explain about the seasons, the solstices, and how on Winter Solstice it is the longest night of the year, but after this night the days start to grow longer again. I told her how it's a time to welcome back the sun, and remember that even though winter is still not over yet, the Solstice is a promise of the coming Spring. We talked about how our lives can seem like this; sometimes things are sad, or "dark", but eventually things get better again and we heal and grow and move forward.

She wanted to know about other "Wiccan Holidays", as she called them, and I told her about Beltane in the spring, then the Summer Solstice, then Samhain in the fall. She confirmed that she has indeed been paying attention to the little things that I have told her about these Sabbats in the past, by remembering little symbolic acts or items that she had seen. We talked and talked, so much that I missed my final exit and had to take a 10 mile detour to get back home!

THEN, my night just kept getting better, because she asked me if we could do something together to celebrate the Solstice! As I said, I hadn't planned anything, but I couldn't turn this down! After the younger kids were sleeping, I pulled out some candles and sage and books. We did some yoga and breathing exercises together. We sang together. (I taught her the simple Element Song) Then we lit candles and sage and read out loud the Yule Ritual from Scott Cunningham's "Wicca - a guide for the solitary practitioner". We prayed. I used my Angel Therapy cards by Doreen Virtue and did a one card reading for my daughter, and then or myself. We talked and prayed by the candlelight, and eventually closed the circle and said goodnight, as it was rather late. We both went to bed feeling happy, and I know I finally found the peace that I have been missing for the past week. My unplanned Winter Solstice turned out way better than if I had planned it, even with that awkward silence and disapproving look from my mother....

Should or Could?

Time for some more soul-searching and bearing my soul open for all to see. I am journaling today from an excersize from the book; "You Can Heal Your Life" by Louise L. Hay. I posted this as a Journaling excersize at "Journal Yourself Awake" - please come check it out! Even if you don't post your results publicly in a blog - try out this journaling excersize it is really amazing!

Should Or Could?

I Should.....
* I Should Have a cleaner house.
* I Should be 100% smoke-free by now.
* I Should be more patient with my kids.
* I should be more ambitious when it comes to work and money.
* I should spend my time more wisely.

Why Should I?
* Why should I have a cleaner house? Because my mom's house was always cleaner than this. Because I'm embarrassed and worried about what others would say. Because I should be more organized. (Look - another "Should"!)
* Why Should I be 100% smoke-free by now? Because it's been 32 days and I need to get serious about quitting smoking! Because I should have more self-control, I need to be more strict with myself! ( Look - another "Should" - and some self-punishing thoughts as well!)
* Why should I be more patient with my kids? If I lose my temper too often they will never trust me or love me. I should be a more loving mother. (In other words, I don't feel like I am a loving mother, and when I say "I Should be more patient with my kids", I am actually saying to myself, "I am not patient or loving enough, and I don't deserve their love.")
* Why should I be more ambitious when it comes to work and money? I am almost 30 I should be doing something with my life other than waitressing. I need to be making more money. (says who? I'm happy doing what I do, and being rich isn't a goal of mine - only being happy is!)
* Why should I be spending my time more wisely? Because life is short. I have so much to get done, and not enough time. ( those sound like answers based on fear, or words that ther people use)

If I really Wanted to I Could...
If I really wanted to I could have a cleaner house.
If I really wanted to I could be 100% smoke-free right now.
If I really wanted to I could be more patient with my kids.
If I really wanted to I could be more ambitious when it comes to work and money.
If I really wanted to I could spend my time more wisely.

.... wow... I feel better already!

Why haven't I?
*Why haven't I made my house cleaner? Well, actually, it's pretty clean. I'm sure there are places a lot worse than mine. It's crowded, and it's Lived In! My whole idea of needin it to be cleaner comes from fear of other's judgements. But if I just lesten to myself and not those other voices, It's not bad. It's healthy.
* Why haven't I completley quit smoking? Because I enjoy my 1 cigarette every night before bed. Because quitting cold-turkey hasn't worked for me in the past, I am trying something different. I am letting myself indulge and rather than punishing myself for it I am trying to learn more about my cravings and addiction, and go slowly. I know when Iam ready, I will be totally able to give up that 1 cig. a day. I am not failing, and I don't need to be punished.
* Why haven't I been more patient wth my kids? Because I need to learn better communcation skills. Because who can be patient with 3 crazy kids? Am I being too hard on myself? Perhaps it's just me being too hard on myself as a parent that is manifesting as problems with them!
* Why haven't I been more ambitious about work and money? Because I am happy doing what I do. Because I am afraid to try something different - afraid that I might fail.
* Why haven't I spent my time more wisely? Because I don't know how. Because I'm afraid there isn't enough time.

.... This was very revealing, and yes, very healing for me. Just recognizing my thought patterns and acknowledging them will help me to begin to change them from negative to positive. And I am going to stop using the word "Should" and replace it with the word "Could".. how about you?? Don't forget to check out the original post for some more insights on this concept and from the book! http://journalyourselfawake.blogspot.com/2009/08/should-or-could.html

I had a bad case of "Ugly" but was cured by two nurses, a short Dr, a dinosaur, and "make-up therapy"

Inspired, no doubt, by the episode of Spongebob Squarepants that we watched after dinner, my children wanted to play "Doctor". I was informed of my status as "The Patient" when my son (3) told me that I looked sick and needed to come to his room.

Here I will try to relay the events that transpired at my "Dr's Visit."
Dr. X - My son, age three
Nurse A - My daughter, age 5
Nurse Z - My older daughter, age 10

Nurse Z; "Come in, come in. We have a bed for you right this way"
me - "Thankyou. I'm not feeling so good"
Dr. X - "You have the Suds" (reference; Spongebob)
me - "Oh. Okay. Can you take care of me?"
Dr. X - "Yes, just sign this paper." ( He hands me a piece of paper with scribbles on it)
me - "Okay", pretending to sign the paper.
Dr. X - examines my signature. "Yes. Mommy. You have the Suds."
me - "Yes, you told me that already. Are you going to help me feel better?"
Dr. X - "Uuuummmm. No. You're going to explode."
(Meanwhile Nurse A and Nurse Z seem to have come down with uncontrollable fits of giggles.)
me - "I'm going to explode?? Save me Dr!! Make Me Better!!!"
Dr. X - "Okay, but first sign this paper." (Seriously, ladies and gentlemen. He had the most serious expression and tone, and kept making me sign papers like this for 5 minutes. I felt like I was in a real Emergency Room!)
me - "Ummm, nurses, I think the Dr. might need some assistance. Perhaps one of you should listen to my heart or get me some medicine?"
Nurse A - "I'll check your heartbeat!!"
Nurse Z - "I'll give you a shot!" (yes, it frightens me that my eldest child was so quick to offer to administer me some pain.)
Nurse A proceeds to awkwardly feel my chest and belly, whispering "thump-thump, thump-thump. Yes her heart is beating. She is almost dead." I was pretty distracted with this when Nurse Z jabs me in the arm with a pencil.... errr "syringe", giving me a shot.
Dr. X walks to the other end of the room examining something on the wall. (A necklace hanging on a light switch) He pulls the necklace, causing it to swing back and forth and announces; "Tick-Tock, Tick-Tock we have to hurry before the time runs out!"
Suddenly I realized that the seconds of my life were being counted down by the swinging pendulum of the necklace.
Nurse Z. was making a buzzing sound, I realized she was about to saw off my legs.
me - "You're cutting off my legs?"
Nurse Z - "No. Just cutting off your cast."
oh. Whew....
Nurse A - "I want to play Make-Overs!! Not Doctor!!"
Nurse Z - "But we are playing Doctor!!"
Meanwhile, Dr. X seems to be scanning me with an instrument that looks like a dinosaur, and making weird clicking sounds as if he is stapling me back together.
Nurse A - "But I want to give mommy a Make-Over!" She begins brushing my hair.
Nurse Z, in a flash of brilliance, realizes a way to make everyone happy. (Everyone, of course, except for me) "I know!! Doctor!! This patient doesn't have the Suds!! She has a bad case of Ugly!! She needs Makeup Therapy!"
me - "I'm ugly?"
Nurse Z - "Yes, but not really, mommy! Just for the game!"
Dr. X - "And you're Going to Explode!"
Nurse Z - "Nurse A, get the make-up bag, quick!! Dr. X - you do surgery on her stomach while we give her Make-Up Therapy! Mommy - you should go to sleep while we do this."
me - "Okay. Anesthesia would help, but I guess you're out?"
Silence. "Okay I'm going to sleep."
I tried to lay very still while the two nurses fussed over my hair and face, pretending to apply makeup. Meanwhile I was trying not to laugh while Dr. X was pumping my stomach up and down with his hands as if he were administering CPR.
Nurse A - "Okay, here's the tape to tape her tummy so it doesn't 'splode."
I open my eyes to see her passing a roll of Duct Tape to her brother. Seriously. Where did they get that?
me - "Oh, okay, I'm awake! I feel much better!"
Nurse Z - "You look much better too. We made you beautiful!! LLLLaaaaaaaaahhhhh!"
me - "Thank Goodness!! Thankyou!! Can I go home now??"
Dr. X - "No. You have to sign this paper...."

Wordless Wednesday 7-8-09

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/

remembering to take time for myself...

I am usually the one giving my friends advice. I don't know why - it's just always been a part of who I am, I can easily see things from another's perspective and offer my opinion in a non-invasive and non-judgmental kind of way. I guess this is why I love giving Tarot Card readings for others. But I know, that when it comes to myself; as a mom, a friend, and a spiritualist or tarot reader, I am often the last to follow my own advice. Funny how it works out like that.

Here I am today, as usual, stuck at home with the three kids. When I woke up; I felt like I could conquer the world. My housweork today was going to fly by, I was going to get so much done, plus have time to enjoy with the kids and do whatever else I wanted. And flitting around my house like some derranged house-fairy with no direction; I have been working, but not getting anything done!!

Okay, cards, give me some inspiration, some motivation!!

Hmmm. This isn't exactly the motivation I was seeking. The Four of Swords from the Housewives' Tarot shows our heroic housewife.... at the beach giving herself a makeover? Well, how is that supposed to help me get my list done for the day?

Sighhh................

I went back to attempting to do my cleaning, with one distraction after another. Kids. Phone. Cat. Door. IM. uhg.... why can't I stay focused??? (Other than my ADD.) After lunch I went to take out the trash. The sprnklers were on. Without hesitating, I called the kids outside and we all went running thru the sprinklers, getting soaking wet and laughing, chasing eachother, and playing in the warm sun.

Later I came inside, feeling refreshed and thinking, maybe now I can get something done! But I didn't go back to my cleaning. I sat here, looking at this card, and thought - maybe it's right. Maybe I just need a day to relax and pamper myself. Some quiet time, meditation, a makeover, or just some time to play.

Too often I forget to take care of myself. As a mom, I know we can get caught up in taking care of everyone else....he kids, the pets, the laundry, the dishes, what's for dinner? When is there time to STOP and take care of ourselves, really let ourselves become rejuvanated and recharge our batteries? The main meanings of this card from the classic Rider-Waite Deck are; Resting, Preparing, Contmplating, Reviewing, Stepping Back, and Coming to Terms with What is. (Click here for a more complete list) Too often we wait until we reach the point of being burned-out and totally overwhelmed before we give ourselves permission to relax. Even FlyLady - the cleaning / organizing queen, prompts us - no urges us - to spend time daily or weekly pampering ourselves to prevent burn out, and I think that's exactly my lesson for today. I can allow myself to take a break, have a quiet afternoon and watch tv or read a book.

Besides, since I've been doing a little (or a lot) every day, I'm not really behind. As long as I do my evening routine before bed, no one will know the difference.....

Sibling Wars

I am really not feeling very "with it" today. My bed is still made and I'm not dressed yet and I would just love to crawl back in those blankets and let sleep take me. My back hurts and my brain refuses to function. This is the kind of sleep deprivation one gets when laying awake all night listening to the coughing and wheezing of an asthmatic three-year old with a cold.

The Xan-Man is feeling down in the dumps. Stuffy nose and cough which make his asthma act up. Sometime today I will probably have to pull out the nebulizer and give him a breathing treatment. Which is always a Battle-Royale. If only I could explain to him that this noisy machine with tubes and face mask are for his own good. So far the only things I have found that can inspire his rationality are Spider-Man and Spongebob; and I don't see either of them using nebulizers and getting breathing treatments.

I can't go back to bed because my household is the current battle ground of Sibling-Wars. With no school and not much to do, the young jedi's are highly susceptible to the powers of the Dark Side. I have come to realize that my 10 yr. old and 5 yr. old girls are potentially the next Sith Lord and Apprentice, and I must be constantly vigilant; watching for angry outbursts between them that may result in injury, screaming,and crying. When these battles take place they try to use their Jedi-Mind Tricks on me, assuring me of their innocence, and promising that it was "The other sister's fault."

My brain is so tired.

I might be able to get myself up and moving; to start on my daily routine and immerse myself in Household chores. The call of my bed is strong. The call of the internet is strong too. I must be stronger. "There is no Try, only Do" .....

Zadkiel, Sandalphon & Raphael

Angel Reading 6/30/09
"Archangel Oracle Cards" by Doreen Virtue, Ph.D.


For today's Daily Draw I decided to use my Archangel Oracle Card deck.

Archangel Zadkiel; Clairaudience
Archangel Sandalphon; Gentleness
Archangel Raphael; Healthy Lifestyle

Card 1; The Origins of my situation - Clairaudience
I have definatley come a long way in learning to listen. I have had to struggle to be able to accept guidance and advice from others, and most of all I have struggled to listen to my inner voice, and my spirit guides or angels. I think this card is reminding me to listen to all of those things; to listen with my heart, and truly hear the messages within me and around me. I also feel that Zadkiel is asking me to listen to my children, for I can learn more about my parenting and their needs if I truly listen to them, even in play. Zadkiel says; "Notice the loving guidance you hear inside your mind, and from other people. You're hearing true Divine guidance very clearly. It comes in the form of repetitious messages, urging you to improve a situation for yourself or others."

Card 2; The Truth of my situation - Gentleness
I have been craving gentleness. I want my home life to be laid back, happy, and loving, but too often it is loud, chaotic, and crazy. I mean, what can I do? I have three kids, it's summer vacation, and we're stuck at home all day with no car. Sandalphon is reminding me that Gentleness and Peace have to start with me. My actions and reactions will set the tone. And most of all, I should be gentle with myself. I am guilty of being much too hard on myself as a mom; judging myself far more harshly than others would. Sandalphon says; "Be very gentle with yourself at this time. Surround yourself with gentle people, situations, and environments. Listen to gentle music, talk quietly, and engage in slow, rythmic movements such as yoga or swaying to music. Don't engage in battles at this time. Instead, retreat from conflict while you revive your spirit and become even stronger. You'll know exactly what to do when you emerge from your gentle retreat."

Card 3; The Highest Goal of my situation - Healthy Lifestyle
I go back and forth between trying to eat and live a healthier way, and not seeming to care about my health at all. I think that Raphael is reminding me that if I listen to my inner guidance and am willing to accept help or advice from others, and if I am gentle with myself, it will be easier for me to have a Healthy Lifestyle. In the meantime, I need to make sure I get enough sleep, drink more water, and eat properly. I know this will make a huge difference in my life; I just need to commit myself to it; without being harsh on myself but just giving gentle guidance. Archangel Raphael says; "Eat a healthful diet, get adequate sleep, and excersize
regularly for optimal health. You are co-creating your health by following your inner guidance about lifestyle habits. I give you inner nudges to improve the way you eat, or to excersize or rest more often. When you take excellent care of your body, your outlook and self esteem naturally blossom."

My Prayer;
" I ask the angels, my spirit guides, and The God and Goddess to guide me in listening to my heart and hearing the messages you have for me. I trust in my clairaudience and know that what I hear is true Divine Guidance. I ask for your help in showing a true spirit of Gentleness to my family and myself. Peace starts with me; in my actions and reactions. With guidance and gentlesness of spirit, I am ready and willing to make changes in my life that will benefit my health. I deserve good health and I have the self discipline and self love to make choices that will empower me towards a Healthy Lifestyle! In Love and Light I accept these blessings and messages in Perfect Love and Perfect Trust."