New Year's Spread

I really love the spread Helen Howell designed for a New Year’s reading, so I am going to use it with my newest deck, a Christmas gift: Spirit Within Tarot by Steven Bright (REDFeather).

I did make one change to the spread, using just one card in positions 3, 4, and 5 instead of three cards for each of those positions.

_NEW YEAR’S SPREAD _

Designed by Helen Howell

Card 1: What appears to be the overall energy that surrounds you in the New Year?

Card 2: How can you make this year successful for you?

***

How can you make the best of your:

Cards 3: Health?

Cards 4: Career/work/job

Cards 5: Romantic Relationships? (or Relationships in general?)

Card 6: What one thing this year do you really need to change in your life?

Card 7: Based on the above cards, what is the overall outlook for the New Year?

* * * * *

Card 1: What appears to be the overall energy that surrounds you in the New Year?

NINE OF PENTACLES – “Personal achievement, satisfaction, independence, solitude”

I like this card very much as an indication of overall energy surrounding me in the New Year. I look forward to having a sense of security and awareness of my accomplishments to date.

Card 2: How can you make this year successful for you?

SEVEN OF PENTACLES – “Assessment, disappointment, evaluation, new options.”

It seems clear that I can make this year successful by continually assessing and evaluating what I am doing, facing and coping with disappointments when they arise, and actively considering new options. Even though the overall energy is that of satisfaction and achievement, I will still need to keep up with what is happening and how things are going.

How can you make the best of your:

Card 3: Health?

TEN OF WANDS – “Burdens, feeling overwhelmed or tired, duties.”

This rings so true for me, as I do find that I feel tired or fatigued on a regular basis. I know that I have always had a tendency to carry burdens that I don’t have to carry. I take my duties seriously, even when they are self-imposed (Virgo rising, Taurus Moon), and I need to be more careful about how I let this affect me.

Card 4: Career/work/job

SIX OF WANDS – “Success, recognition, awards, fame.”

Well, I have to like this, especially when combined with the Nine of Pentacles as overall energy for the year. I have more than one “career” and it will be fun to discover which one(s) will “take off” in 2018.

Card 5: Romantic Relationships? (or Relationships in general?)

FOUR OF WANDS – “Formal celebration, security, achievements, parties.”

Celebrating my relationships and the sense of security they bring sounds like a great idea to me. I don’t go to many (if any) parties, but just getting together now and then with friends or family can be a party of sorts.

Card 6: What one thing this year do you really need to change in your life?

FIVE OF WANDS – “Struggle, competition, different opinions, conflicting ideas.”

I think the message here is that I need to struggle less, compete less, and not take different opinions or conflicting ideas so much to heart. I need to ask myself, “Does this really matter?” when I feel that tendency to get upset or stressed out.

Card 7: Based on the above cards, what is the overall outlook for the New Year?

SEVEN OF WANDS – “Opposition, defense, courage, standing up for yourself.”

Well, in spite of all the success and accomplishment energy shown in previous cards, it does seem that I may come up against someone or something that requires me to defend myself and to stand my ground. I feel this “opposition” could come from outside or from within, as shown by the Five of Wands above. The Seven of Wands indicates that I am at an advantage, and I need to remember that. If I do have to fight, I am in a good position to do so successfully.

All Pentacles and Wands for 2018! I don’t see anything here that seems out of character or “outlandish” for me. It all makes a lot of sense.

Two Cards, One Interpretation: Ace of Coins and The Devil

Today, Helen joins us with the first installment in a new series for Tarot Notes:

"Two Cards, One Interpretation"

by Helen Howell

The posts in this new series demonstrate how two cards can be read together as one, their meanings blended to complement and enhance each other. I hope you enjoy this new series as much as I have in putting it together. I'm using the Joie de Vivre Tarot by Paulina Cassidy (published by US Games Systems Inc.)

Ace of Coins / The Devil

It’s now time to make the most of the opportunities that present themselves, but beware of any rash impulses. Stay in control of your actions.

* ~ *

Be sure to visit Helen's new Tarot blog. 

Click here: Helen H's Tarot Blog

Old English Tarot: 9 of Cups

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Nine of Cups

by Helen Howell

Old English Tarot

Today I’m looking at the Old English 9 of cups and comparing it to the more traditional Rider Waite card. At first look neither card bears a resemblance to the other. With the Rider Waite it is more obvious from the image that this is a card about satisfaction and emotional fulfilment. We see a man sitting in front of nine cups and looking very happy with himself. Very often this card has been called the “wish card” and it represents for us that what we desire emotionally can be achievable.

Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot

Now when I look at the Old English I don’t get that impression so much. What I like about the Old English Cards is that they make you think. What we have here is a boy doing a handstand and his drum is on the ground beside him. I suppose one could ask themselves why is he doing the handstand? Is the same as jumping for joy? Perhaps he has just mastered a difficult drum routine and this is his way of shouting “Yay!” I think from this image we can at least take the meaning of success and one that can make you feel good about yourself. By looking into the image and analysing it, we can determine that this is representative of emotional happiness and one of achievement. 

So although at first look it is not so obvious what it means as the Rider Waite image is, both cards do seem to be delivering the same message. Basically satisfaction, celebration and emotional happiness.

LWB:

Positive: Success, abundance, victory, Celebration

Reversed: Mistakes, material loss, imperfection

Old English Tarot: 4 of Batons

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Four of Batons

by Helen Howell

Today’s comparison of the Old English and the more traditional Rider Waite is  between the 4 of Batons or Wands if you prefer. The images on both of these cards have a good feel about them. Certainly the idea of completion is portrayed in both of these.

Let’s look at the Rider Waite first, and I choose the Rider Waite first in all my posts, because it is the Mother of all the modern decks that followed, in that they are based on the Rider Waite tradition from what I can see. In the RW image we see four wands support a flowered garland, a crowd gathered to one side, a couple in the centre with their arms raised, holding bouquets of flowers and to the other side a bridge. This is definitely an image of celebration. It’s a card that tells us you have completed the first round. The bridge indicates that you still have further to go, but right now it’s time to relax.

I love the image in the Old English. We see lush trees, green green grass and what appears to be a peacock or maybe a very colourful turkey? If we look closely we also see four baby chicks in the grass. Mama has hatched her babies and that is one cycle complete. That’s a reason to celebrate and to enjoy the achievement after all that hard work sitting on those eggs! But they are just chicks and that reminds us that there is still a new cycle to begin.  When we look more deeply into the image, we see it speaks to us of harmony, prosperity (those green trees are growing well), and the results of hard work (hatching out the eggs). It says take the time to enjoy where you are, but it also reminds you that you cannot stand still forever. Chicks have to grow up!

Both cards deliver the same message, but with very different images. The meaning of the Old English is not always immediately obvious, but if you just take the time to study the artwork you’ll see the message is very clear.

LWB:

Positive: Romance, harmony, peace, prosperity, fruit of labor.

Reversed: Tarnished beauty, loss of tranquility.

Easter Egg Spread from Helen

Please celebrate Easter with my fellow creator of Tarot Notes, Helen Howell, here to demonstrate her Easter Egg Spread!

Easter Egg Spread

created by Helen Howell on 27th March 2013

Easter seemed the perfect time to try out this spread again and demonstrate the Old English Tarot in action. I first showed this spread back in 2013 and I hope you enjoy using it once more.

image copyright Helen Howell

The layout is a simple horizontal three cards in a line.

1: Undo the Bow:  This is the potential that exists for me.
2: Peel off the wrapping: The new beginning that I hope for.
3: Break into the chocolate: The first step I must take to manifest this goal.

The Old English Tarot by Maggie Keen

Published by U.S. Games Systems, Inc.

1: Undo the Bow: Three of Cups
This card indicates a healing for me, where mind body and spirit can come together in harmony. The potential here for me is to bring about a satisfactory conclusion. (I know what this card is talking about and some of it’s health issues and some is relationship issue.)

2: Peel off the wrapping: The Moon
What I like about this image is that Moon shown is not a full moon but a New Moon. A New Moon can represent promise and of course the Moon in general does also represent creativity. So I guess the first step I should take is to clear all negativity from my mind and use my creativity to formulate a better approach to my particular problems.

3: Break into the Chocolate: Three of Swords
In this image I see three swords hanging over a castle, the castle being the goal, the place of security and abundance. The first step I need to take to bring about my goal is to set aside disappointments of the past. Clear away any conflicting thoughts I have about these two particular situations and gain a better sense of perspective which will show me the path towards that castle.

In conclusion then these three cards from my Easter Egg reading tell me that I can heal and bring harmony to body, mind and spirit if I clear all negative thoughts from my mind, and instead use a creative approach to solve problems. The very first step I need to take is to eliminate conflicting thoughts and to set aside disappointments from the past.  The past is the past and that’s where it should stay. Today is always another opportunity to do better. ^_^

~ Helen Howell

Old English Tarot: 8 of Coins

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Eight of Coins

by Helen Howell

Today’s Old English Card is the 8 of Coins and I’ll be comparing this to its more traditional brother, as usual, the Rider Waite deck.

The Rider Waite 8 of Pentacles, as you probably know, depicts a young man working studiously on each pentacle. Here he strives to improve with each one he makes. The card’s fundamental meaning is commitment to a new form of skill. It’s a card that can translate into indicating that hard work will get you where you want to be and an ability to stay with the project in hand. As this is a Pentacles/Coins card, we are looking at the material world and so the other message from this card is: Take a practical approach.

Now it is easy to see and translate the meaning of the Rider Waite image but not so easy with the Old English 8 of Coins. Let’s take a look at the symbolism contained in the Old English depiction of this card.

We have have eight coins arranged in two lines of three with two in the middle - a perfectly balanced arrangement. Beneath this is what looks like a wine barrel, grapes to the back and grapes to the forefront of the card, two jugs of varying sizes, and two bowls. How do we translate this to mean similar to the Rider Waite?

At first look it’s not so obvious, but then we start to ask ourselves some questions: Why are there two jugs with different patterns carved into them and of varying sizes? Why two bowls that differ? What do the grapes stand for? Wine? Maybe, but I think they may mean something a little more deeper.

I’m going to list what I think these symbols might mean for us.

Grapes: Abundance, reaping the fruits of one’s labour. Achievement through care and attention to the plants. Hard work to gain a good crop.

Bowls & Jugs: If we look at the progress of the carving from the bowls to the large jug with the more elaborate design, then we see a progression of skill has taken place.

So it does appear that the Old English 8 of Coins does have a similar meaning to the Rider Waite 8 of Pentacles - perfecting skills, practice makes perfect, achievement through hard work.

It is the symbols that speak to us within the image of a card, and each modern deck will have its own variation of the core meanings of the Rider Waite. When you see the Old English 8 of Coins in a reading, somewhere in its meaning it’s going to suggest commitment  to gaining an end result.

LWB: Apprenticeship, craftsmanship, learning, effort, handiwork.

Reversed: Lack of ambition, vanity, disillusionment.

Old English Tarot: 5 of Batons

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Five of Batons

by Helen Howell

Today I’m looking at the Old English 5 of Batons and comparing it to the more traditional Rider Waite card. The visual we have here is very different to the one more often depicted for the 5 Wands (Batons). When we look at the more traditional Rider Waite, we can see from the image of the five figures that they are in some sort of struggle. Now this could of course be just competitiveness but also it may well show us some sort of conflict going on.

In the Old English we get a completely different image, but it is one that delivers the same sentiment as its more traditional brother and that is competitiveness, struggles and a situation that can be trying and irritating.  What we see growing out of the brown soil is a crop that the farmer has planted and it is being besieged by a murder of crows in competition with each other for the prize of the food. Now no doubt this activity will be very irritating to the farmer and his efforts to protect his crop somewhat trying.

So there we have it, two cards with very different images both delivering the same sort of message, that is one of trying times, or competitive times. It can be telling us of the obstacles that one encounters in everyday life that can be frustrating to deal with but not necessarily that hard to overcome. After all, all the figures in the Rider Waite card need to do is learn to work together and as for the crows, well the farmer needs a really scary scarecrow!

LWB says: Struggle, labor, setbacks, unsatisfied desire.

Reversed: Trickery, contradiction, complexity.

Old English Tarot: 9 of Coins

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Nine of Coins

by Helen Howell

I really like the depiction on the Old English 9 of Coins and like its more traditional brother the Rider Waite, it shows us an image of comfort and accomplishment. We all know the Rider Waite image of the lady in the garden, surrounded by the nine coins and we know that this is an image of wealth.

The Old English image shows us a couple seated together and toasting each other with a drink.  A garland decorates the wall behind them and the flooring is a rich checker-board pattern. I like that unlike the Rider Waite card, we have a couple here, a symbol of sharing their wealth and good fortune, as opposed to the lady in her garden who is enjoying it all by herself.

The Old English suggests comfort and prosperity but what I like most about this imagery is that it may symbolise for us the essence of sharing, in other words it’s not just about accumulating wealth, it’s about what you do with it that counts. The couple seem to indicate to me that abundance is not just about money. In this image we see comfort, but we also see emotional prosperity along with physical wellbeing. What they have accomplished they now share together.

LWB: Accomplishment, foresight, prudence, material well-being, love of nature.

Reversed: Stagnation, carelessness, lack of determination or direction.

Old English Tarot: 4 of Cups

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Four of Cups

by Helen Howell

Old English Tarot

I have to say that if I didn’t know the traditional meaning from the Rider Waite deck for the 4 of Cups I would be totally stumped with the image shown on the Old English Card. All we have are four cups and beneath them a figure playing two flutes.

Rider Tarot

The LWB tells us that the meanings attributed to this card are: Weariness, disappointment, a bitter experience (Reversed: Fresh possibilities, new relationships.) Well, I guess if we look at the figure having to play two flutes at one time, we could assume that he would become weary of this and maybe disappointed that the other flute player didn’t turn up!

Its more traditional brother, the Rider Waite, gives us more to get our teeth into and we see a figure sitting under a tree, arms crossed and eyes looking downwards. In front of him are three cups and a fourth is being offered as a gift, but alas he sees none of these things. Yes, our figure is bored with life and discontent with his lot so that he misses the opportunity of what is available to him.

Now, I supposed our flute player could also get bored having to play those two flutes all by himself; however, as I said, if I didn’t know the basic meaning of the Rider Waite card I would certainly have had trouble trying to decide what the Old English card was representing.

You’ll have to make your own minds up about this one.

Old English Tarot: 2 of Coins

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Two of Coins

by Helen Howell

Rider-Waite Tarot

The Old English depiction of the 2 of Coins does not speak as clearly to me as its more traditional brother the Rider Waite.  In the Rider Waite we see a figure balancing two coins which appear to run around a never-ending loop shaped in a figure eight. Behind him we see choppy seas upon which a sail boat rides. We are left in no doubt with this image that the message it is delivering is one of movement, and shifting energy as seen in the choppy sea. This image speaks to us of the need to handle various factors in life, remember it’s Pentacles and that relates to the tangible, in order to make a success of them.

However, in the Old English we see a ship on a calm river, sailing away, at least it looks like that to me, from a village/town. The water has hardly a ripple in it and the boat is making very little headway. This can suggest a lack of movement, some difficulty in getting something off the ground. Even though this image is very different from the Rider Waite, it does reflect the idea of the need to handle various factors in life in order to get them running smoothly. For example, the people who set sail should have first checked the wind factor. After all it is a sail boat! Maybe they needed to make sure there were some oars aboard. But I do get the feeling with this card that it speaks more of difficulties rather than of movement.

LWB: Difficulties in launching new projects, difficult situations arise, worry.
Reversed: Able to handle matters, a letter

Old English Tarot: Ace of Cups

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Ace of Cups

by Helen Howell

The Old English Ace of Cups is not unlike its traditional brother the Rider Waite as they both show us a cup that is overflowing. If we remember that the Aces of the suits are just the beginning, they signify the potential of what the suit is about. Cups of course are the element Water and expressed through emotions, feelings, imagination and inspiration.

In the old English we see a cup that is full with ripe grapes, some dangle over the edge. There are also green leaves nestled in between the grapes. Green is a colour that often signifies expansion, growth, potential balance and creativity. The grapes, being fruit also symbolise for us abundance, but the pips inside which are the seeds, go on to represent new beginnings, the potential of something to become more.

When we look at this depiction then and keep in mind what the suit represents, then it gives us a message of a fullness of emotions and feelings. It indicates to us that a joyful time could be ahead, or it could simply be saying that one needs to understand the way they are feeling about something because those feelings are filling us right now. Because of the potential aspect of this card along with the colour green, it can indicate that a creative time is about to emerge that is full of potential.

All in all the Ace is a nice card to have especially from its positive point of view, as it tells us that a good time is ahead.

LWB says: Abundance, perfection, joy, fullness beauty, favourable outlook.
Reversed: Change, instability, unrequited love

Old English Tarot: 7 of Batons

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Seven of Batons

by Helen Howell

I’m kicking off the new year with some more Old English Cards and as usual comparing their meanings agains the traditional Rider Waite Deck. 

Rider-Waite Tarot

First let’s take a look at the traditional Rider Waite 7 of Wands. As you know this suit’s element is Fire and is expressed through action and creativity. In the Rider Waite illustration we see a man standing atop a cliff. Six wands are below him and he has one wand held up in a defensive pose. You could almost say he is standing his ground. This is a card that speaks of courage and willpower and the ability to remain flexible in a challenging situation.

Now when we look at the Old English depiction, we get a very different picture. We have a figure walking along with the aid of a walking stick. The trees to the side of him are wind blown and his cloak is also wind blown. It looks like the wind is pushing him along.  Indeed it may well be a challenge for him to keep on course! However, the figure keeps going towards his goal and so this card also speaks to us, although in a less dramatic way than the Rider Waite, of courage, willpower and the ability to remain flexible in the face of an obstacle in order to overcome it.

I like the Old English visual as it’s less aggressive than its more traditional brother and to me it speaks of quiet courage. Of having the willpower to see something through to a successful finish -- and not only willpower but sheer determination to overcome any difficulties one may come up against. Why he may even be using that wind behind him to help him move forward! And there we have the element of flexibility to work around that obstacle so that it doesn’t hinder but can be put to good use.

Either way both these cards speak of the need to keep moving and keep learning new skills in order to stay on top. But both tell us that although one can be successful it will not come without some hard work. (Have you tried walking in a very strong wind? ^_^ )

LWB says:
Gain, overcoming challenges and obstacles, success.
Reversed: Anxiety embarrassment

New Year Package: Readings for 2016

To celebrate the dawn of the Year 2016, Helen and I are each doing a reading using a spread she designed called “New Year Package.” (As always, we acknowledge the possibility that someone else has come up with a similar spread, but to the best of our knowledge it is an original spread, created by Helen.)

If you try this spread do let us know how you go.  Happy New Year to you all!

The  layout looks like this:

1

2.......5.......3

4

Positional definitions are:

1: What should I focus on in 2016?
2: What do I need to release?
3: What do I need to add?
4: One thing to change to make 2016 a success
5: Based on the above cards the overall outlook.

HELEN’S READING

Shuffling up the Joie de Vivre Tarot by Paulina Cassidy (U.S. Games Systems)...

1:  What should I focus on in 2016? - 9 of Wands

The Joie de Vivre reminds me that I have the courage to see things through regardless of what obstacles I may encounter. I need to focus in 2016 on this inner strength that exists to give me the courage to see my endeavours through to their conclusion. Let willpower, strength and patience be my key words to focus on in this coming year.

This is a No. 9 card which in Tarot can often represent struggles, self-evaluation and ultimate goal. We often see a single figure on a number 9 card and this indicates that what is achieved is done purely by your own hard work and self-determination. It as a number backs up what the 9 of Wands suggests, which is I focus on determination and willpower.

2: What do I need to release?  The Fool

The Joie de Vivre laughs at me and says, “Don’t be a fool and be afraid of the unknown.” What I need to release is my fear of treading new ground and open myself up more to the possibilities that new adventures can offer me.  All I need to do is trust in my intuition and know that I am the designer of my future - nothing ventured, nothing gained.

3: What do I need to add? 10 of Swords

I need to add a new perspective to the way I look at things. Recognise that I can change nothing that has gone before, and therefore let it be. But instead like the girl in the image, I can follow the stream to a new beginning and leave the end far behind. This card backs up what I need to release, for the future is mine to make. Remember that Swords is all about communication and thoughts. It is our thoughts that create our tomorrow so I need to keep mine positive in order to start again.

This is a No. 10 card and it’s a number that represents endings and beginnings all in one  1+0= 1.  10 often shows us what we’re aiming for and helps us  realise what holds us back but also marks for us the next step to start again.  It shows us in the card for this position that I have to realise which of my thought patterns don’t work for me and how I can improve them in order to move forward.

4: One thing to change to make 2016 a success - Six of Cups

I need to take off my rose coloured glasses and stop longing for things that no longer exist. Don’t live in the past. Instead let it help you create a better future. Take the best memories and lessons and let them help to form a better foundation from which to start. Look hard at what worked for me in the past and update it to work in the future.

No. 6 in Tarot often represents the harmony that can be achieved. It’s a number that allows us to take time to appreciate the good things we have in life and this in turn helps us move onwards and upwards. In relation to the Card and position it points out the fors and againsts  of what we choose to remember and how we use it to mould our lives.

5: Based on the above cards the overall outlook. - 4 of Wands

If I can follow the advice of the previous cards then the outlook for 2016 is a favourable one.  It denotes success and happiness along with stability and the ability to work with and alongside others in order to achieve this success.

The No. 4 in Tarot can often suggest stability, structure, security and material completion but it also can lean towards entrapment, containment and limitation. However, in relationship to the card and its position this number reinforces the idea of structure and stability.  It’s a number that you often find can relate to logic and reason. It indicates that if one acknowledges their own limitations then they can work within these confines to overcome obstacles and achieve a success.

It appears to me that my New Year Reading for 2016 holds a lot of promise. That is providing I can step up and meet any challenges and not be afraid to try something new or venture where I haven’t been before. Re-evaluate my thinking patterns and use what has been successful for me in the past to help form a good foundation for the future, rather than long for what has gone before.  Then it sounds like I will have a good working foundation to create whatever future I desire.

* ~ *

ZANNA’S READING

I am using The Wheel of Change Tarot by Alexandra Genetti (Destiny Books).

1: What should I focus on in 2016? THE WORLD

I should focus on a spiritual journey that leads to “wisdom and knowledge; perfection, completion, and fulfillment.” (Genetti) The World is the last card of the Major Arcana, and as such represents the culmination or achievement of wholeness and unity. I need to focus on bringing together and harmonizing Earth, Water, Air, and Fire in order to gain a deeper understanding of life.

2: What do I need to release? KNIGHT OF CUPS

In The Wheel of Change Tarot, this card references the Christmas season: “In the softly falling snow, a black man plays his soulful music, donating his time to help to feed his brothers and sisters who struggle through the year on the streets of the city without a home.” (Genetti) I think perhaps this card is telling me that I need to release the tendency to feel that as one person, I cannot save the world or humanity, and therefore any effort I make to help others is meaningless. The individual on this card is just one person, yet he is doing what he can to make a difference. That is what matters.

3: What do I need to add? KNIGHT OF WANDS

Here we see a Tibetan Buddhist monk meditating with a Dorje (the scepter of Indra, the Hindu thunder god). I am not Buddhist or Hindu, but I can see this card as representing “the will and the joy of living with a goal of truth and enlightenment.” (Genetti) The suit of Wands (Fire) does indeed represent the will, along with growth, creativity, and activity. Genetti writes that I need not necessarily take up meditation. “Whatever you take up is meant . . . to connect you to the heavens as well as to the earth. . . Fill your home and world with calm, or fill it with your music or paintings.”

4: One thing to change to make 2016 a success: TEN OF DISKS

This card depicts “Drums of Many Cultures in the Summer Sun.” Not surprisingly, Genetti presents the Ten of Disks as “symbolic of the rhythm of the whole earth. . . The varied physical elements of your life are all beginning to fall into a common pattern and rhythm.” This card is about finding my inner and outer rhythm, feeling the pulse of life within and without, hearing the sound of the drum and awakening to its power.

5: Based on the above cards the overall outlook: QUEEN OF SWORDS

To Genetti, the Queen of Swords “represents the pinnacle of woman’s wisdom and intellect. . . She combines great mental capacity with superb feminine intuition gained in her life experience.” With Queens being linked to Water and Swords to Air, the Queen of Swords blends heart and mind. Here we find the power of memory and the strength found in calm reflection and meditative thought. The Japanese woman on the card is described as “old” – and the winter scene represents that season of life. She sits comfortably on the floor, firmly connected to earth and the natural world. This card is specifically connected in this deck with New Year’s Day, a symbol of rebirth and one of the most important Japanese holidays. By heeding the messages of the preceding cards, my overall outlook for 2016 is the achievement of a balanced mind, body, and feelings.

Speaking of balancing the elements, I notice that I have one each of Fire, Air, Earth, and Water, plus a Major Arcana card that incorporates all four. Very nice.

I also notice that not only do I have three Court cards in this reading, but they are arranged in the layout side by side across the middle. To me, Court cards are the most personal cards in the Tarot, often referring to qualities or traits within ourselves that have a significant impact on outcomes. The Queen of Swords flanked by the Knight of Cups and the Knight of Wands presents a message that deserves further contemplation.

At the top of the layout I have the last card of the Major Arcana, and at the bottom I have a Ten, the last card in any suit. It appears to me that 2016 will contain at least one important turning point or ending/beginning, a new direction, or the end of one stage and the start of a new stage in my life.

Did Brianna Kill Hilde?

Once again, Helen and I are comparing readings using oracle cards and Tarot cards. This time, our Yes/No reading is based on a novel I am currently reading: Die Smiling (Book 3 of the Claire Morgan series) by Linda Ladd.

Having reached a certain point in the novel, I decided to ask the cards: Did Brianna kill Hilde?

In addition to that question, I gave Helen the following background information: Brianna and Hilde are adult sisters. Brianna told her boyfriend (a detective) that she had not been able to reach Hilde for a day or two and was worried about her. The detective and his partner (a woman) went to check on Hilde and found her murdered in the bathtub with her face disfigured. In the book, as readers, we are beginning to get the sense that Brianna and Hilde did not like each other (even hated each other).

For my reading, I am using the Mystical Kipper fortunetelling cards by Regula Elizabeth Fiechter (AGM Urania). In the method I am using even-numbered cards represent the answer “Yes” and odd-numbered cards are “No.” Here is the Mystical Kipper’s answer to the question, “Did Brianna kill Hilde?”

GOOD GENTLEMEN (5) – Odd / No

GOOD LADY (6) – Even / Yes

A LONG WAY (35) – Odd / No

I love the fact that in every one of the Yes-No readings I have done, the cards have never once given me all three “Yes” or all three “No.” It’s always a combination. In this case, it looks like the cards are saying it is very unlikely (but not impossible) that Brianna killed Hilde (2 No, 1 Yes).

Having read most of the book before drawing these cards, I interpret the Good Gentleman as Brianna’s detective boyfriend. It is interesting that the Little White Book (LWB) for the Mystical Kipper states: “He has a lot of power and strength” but “He only becomes a fighting lion in order to help you if others attack you.” This is exactly what happens in the book, very near the end, when Brianna and the detective’s partner are attacked.

The Good Lady, I think, could refer to the detective’s partner. There aren’t any other females in the story that have such positive, caring qualities. Finally, “A Long Way” could easily refer to the difficult, at times horrifying road that Brianna and her sister traveled from childhood to the present day.

Now, let’s see how Helen’s cards answer the question, “Did Brianna kill Hilde?” Helen is using the Wonderland Tarot by Christopher & Morgana Abbey, with Artwork by Morgana Abbey (published by U.S. Games Systems Inc.)

7 Hats (Cups) 

Ace Peppermills (Wands)

Ace Hats (Cups)

Helen writes: “Firstly using the system I use with 2 Aces the cards are saying she probably did, but there is an element of doubt here shown in the 7 of Hats.  When I look at both the Aces it tells me that her emotions towards her sister are overflowing, and this is what drives her into thinking that she can run with an idea. These two cards together show me a burning desire to act against her sister.

However, along with these two cards is the 7 of Hats (Cups) and what this tells me is that she is weighing up what she can achieve and what is just an idea that she cannot possibly carry out.  I think what  the cards are actually saying is that Brianna has the desire to kill her sister but the choice of how to go about it may just be a stumbling block for her - this is the element of doubt that the cards are presenting.

All in all if I had to answer yes or no then strictly going by my system of Aces, I would have to say  it’s likely she did.”

==================

Both readings carry some element of doubt. The Mystical Kipper seems to say it is unlikely (yet not impossible) that Brianna killed her sister, whereas the Wonderland Tarot seems to say it is likely (with an element of doubt) that she did. As a reader, before drawing any cards, I strongly suspected Brianna of killing Hilde.

As it turns out, Brianna and her sister did hate each other while growing up, but only because of the way their their psycho-mother treated them both – she idolized Hilde and tormented Brianna. Hilde took advantage of this and told lies about Brianna. Psycho-mom responded by abusing Brianna even more. Then, a psycho-boy who lived nearby became friends with Brianna and helped her devise ways to torment Hilde. Eventually, Hilde and Brianna became rivals for the affection of the psycho-boy, and he betrayed Brianna with Hilde.

We do see that Hilde and Brianna both carried a lot of hate for each other growing up, to the point where they each wanted to kill the other at different times. Eventually, though, they both realized that psycho-boy was a much worse threat to them both. When they got older, they tried to get away from him, but he found Hilde and killed her because she wouldn’t tell him where Brianna was. Then he found Brianna anyway and came after her, whereupon the Good Gentleman and Good Lady intervened.

So it is certainly fair to say that Brianna was “involved” in Hilde’s death, both because of her behavior in childhood (when she would have happily killed her sister) and because Hilde died trying to keep Brianna’s location hidden from psycho-boy.

Sorry to have spoiled the ending of Die Smiling! But if you like psychological thrillers, there are lots of other books in the same series that might interest you: http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/author.aspx/25421 

Old English Tarot: 8 of Cups

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Eight of Cups

by Helen Howell

I have the Old English 8 of cups card by the side of the Rider Waite and as I study the two I can see similarities and also differences. Because this is a Cups card we can take it that this is all about emotions, feelings, etc.

In the Rider Waite we see a man abandoning the eight cups. I like that there is a gap in the top row, to me indicating that something is left unfinished. He heads towards a mountain, perhaps seeking higher ground. This card speaks fairly loudly of letting go of that which isn’t working, emotionally breaking those ties and finding a better ground from which to stand.

When we look at the Old English we get an image of 8 cups and beneath them stands a figure playing his flute. Behind him is a drum that has quite obviously been abandoned. The question here though is, has the figure abandoned it for the flute? Or did someone else leave it and the figure to play alone?

The similarity I see between the two cards is one of abandonment for whatever reason, but the difference is that the man is not walking away. However, the fact that he chooses to stand and play the flute could indicate that he is not going to allow the relinquishment of the drum to hold him back but rather to play on.

Again I can draw a similarity to the RW card at this point of emotionally breaking the tie of something that is not working but seeking to get on with his life in his own way.

Both cards therefore, in my opinion, offer the interpretation of letting go and moving on.

LWB says:
Abandonment of previous plans, discontinuing a project, shyness, modesty, disappointment.
Reversed: Festivity, happiness.

Will they marry each other?

In this post, Helen Howell and I present comparison readings using the Under the Roses Lenormand by Kendra Hurteau and Katrina Hill (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.) and the Joie de Vivre Tarot by Paulina Cassidy (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

The matter being considered involves two people who have been dating for some time and are moving into an apartment together.

The question for the cards: Will they marry each other?

First, I will share the answer from the Under the Roses Lenormand deck.

The Ring (25) – Ace of Clubs (black / No)

The Gentleman (28) – Ace of Hearts (red / Yes)

The Clock Tower (19) – 6 of Spades (black / No)

With two black cards and one red, the short answer from the Under the Roses Lenormand appears to be “probably not” or “not likely.”

Having said that, I have to pay attention to each card. “The Ring” is an obvious symbol of commitment and marriage or partnership. As per the LWB for this deck: “Contracts or long-term commitments such as marriage.”

The Gentleman typically refers to a male, man you are close to, partner, friend, etc. His link to the Ace of Hearts suggests an emotional connection, very possibly a romantic relationship.

The Clock Tower, in contrast to the other two cards, can be seen as a card of separation or alienation, as well as objectivity, analysis, and discovery. It can represent an institutionalized perspective (and marriage is, after all, an “institution”).

Among the possibilities I see here is the chance that marriage will be proposed and perhaps an engagement may even be announced, but marriage is not guaranteed. Something is likely to get in the way and present a challenge that could be difficult to overcome.

* * * * * * *

Now, Helen shares her answer to the same question – Will they marry each other? – using the Joie de Vivre Tarot.

“Well, I shuffled up the Joie de Vivre Tarot and got Ace of Coins, Death, King of Swords.  The tarot seems to think that they probably will not get married, from what the other two cards indicate, there is going to be a change, hard decisions have to be made, but in the end the right one will be acted on and this will bring about a change in circumstances. The Tarot indicates that this relationship will come to its natural end, nothing will change that, and the King of Swords tells me that the decision that brings this about, has been well thought out.

If we look at the Ace which is Coins this reinforces the other two cards, regarding change by indicating that a new beginning and growth will be embarked upon.  When you look at the three cards together, notice how the Ace of Coins figure faces Death, but Death is flying away from her, and towards the King  of Swords.

It appears then that in the system I use, the fact that there is only one Ace indicates that probably (not definitely) they will not marry, and the death card particularly in this image, indicates moving on from one situation to the next. Death does tell us not only is there change in the air, but that something is coming to a natural ending, the King just tells me that the hard decisions will be made in order to get the best result.

Remember though the cards are saying probably not, they are not saying a definite no.”

* * * * * * *

Helen and I have reached similar conclusions about this matter, with the cards stacked 2 to 1 against the likelihood of marriage.

Old English Tarot: 9 of Batons

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Nine of Batons

by Helen Howell

At first look the Old English 9 of Batons had me wondering how to interpret it. Its traditional brother the Rider Waite’s image is far easier to read, in that the figure of a man wounded and yet still standing guard tells us a story of inner strength and courage -- courage and determination to face one’s enemies, even if they are hidden.

So how do we interpret the image of the Old English?

What is depicted is a haystack of sorts. The bundles of dried wheat etc. are piled together, some on top of the others forming a tightly packed stack. Now, alone each sheaf would be weaker but together they have strength, both from the outside and inside. Perhaps this is the equivalent to the Rider Waite inner strength image. We can’t see inside the stack, so again we don’t know if something is hidden within, something that could harm us maybe? This depiction therefore does tell us similar things to the Rider Waite interpretation. But another way to look at this card is also that the sheafs are harvested and now await the next stage, so indicating a small break from the routine around them.

From what I can see the Old English card does speak of inner strength, and also of things hidden but adds that dimension of temporary relief, a chance for a break from the everyday routine or situation you might find yourself in.

What I find of assistance in interpreting these minor cards from the Old English is a good understanding of the basic meanings of the Rider Waite deck, which as we all know is the mother of the modern day clones.

LWB says:
Difficulties expected, anticipation, hidden enemies, a temporary break in the struggle.
Reversed: Delays, barriers to be overcome.

Old English Tarot: 7 of Coins

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

Seven of Coins

by Helen Howell

I’m back looking at the minor cards in the Old English Tarot Deck and today it’s the 7 of Coins. Now I always compare these cards to their traditional brother the Rider Waite Deck  and as I glance at these two cards side by side one significant difference hits me. In the Rider Waite we see an image of a man contemplating his harvest. It tends to speak to me of being at a crossroads and evaluating what you have achieved. The Old English image doesn’t appear to depict this element.

Let’s take a closer look at the image of the Old English and what the symbolism in it could mean. In the background we see a castle on a hill. This could suggest a goal or security.  The green hill could suggest for us how the earth nourishes, green being a colour associated with growth, expansion, balance, potential, fertility. The fields of wheat also indicate growth and abundance. The fruit tree laden with pears could represent good solid roots that have resulted in success. Two baskets are filled with produce, again showing abundance, a good harvest. The figure sits on the grass (green again) and appears to be counting out what looks like nuts. I have read that nuts or at least nut trees can be a symbol of perseverance.

Taking all of these images together it really does speak to me of having achieved a good result from putting in the effort and patience. Everything around the figure indicates success and progress. So unlike the Rider Waite image, which gives me a strong feeling of reevaluation, this Old English one, at least to me, speaks of success through hard work and the opportunity to reach one’s goal. However I am left wondering why the figure is counting those nuts? Perhaps after all there is an element of reevaluation tucked away in this card. You’ll have to make up your own mind about this one.

These interpretations are purely from my own perspective. You may see something totally different to me, and that’s ok too. If you do, don’t hesitate to share. We can all keep on learning.

LWB says:
Ingenuity, growth, progress, monetary gain, good result from work.
Reversed: Selfishness, avarice, bad debts.

Inspired by the Tarot: Haiku, Part 4

For the final entry in this series of haiku poems, I wrote poems based on cards that Helen chose, and she wrote poems based on cards that I chose. We took turns, starting with my choice of The Tower card from the Crystal Visions Tarot, with haiku written by Helen.

Here are links to _PART 1_, _PART 2_, and _PART 3_ if you’re interested:

The Tower

Crystal Visions Tarot

by Jennifer Galasso

U.S. Games Systems Inc.

Change is in the air

sudden and unexpected

embrace the new start

The Star
Alchemical Renewed
By Robert M. Place 
Hermes Publications

The fountain of life
Nurturing our Higher Self
blood, milk, and water.

The Moon
Fantastical Creatures Tarot
by D.J. Conway and Lisa Hunt
U.S. Games Systems Inc.

Dreams will have their way
the mind speaks many languages
fear has no place here

The Sun
Hanson-Roberts Tarot Deck
by Mary Hanson-Roberts
U.S. Games Systems, Inc.

Golden joy, bright light
unharnessed freedom and trust
celebrate your life!

Judgment
Hudes Tarot Deck
by Susan Hudes and A.L. Samul
U.S. Games Systems, Inc.

Create your tomorrow
evaluate your past now
hear the call to start afresh

The World
Sun and Moon Tarot
by Vanessa Decort
U.S. Games Systems, Inc.

The cosmic dancer
unlimited energy
destroys and creates

Old English Tarot: 6 of Swords

In today's blog entry, Helen Howell continues her exploration of cards from the Old English Tarot by Maggie Kneen (U.S. Games Systems, Inc.)

Old English Tarot

6 Swords

by Helen Howell

I’ve always liked the 6 of Swords in most decks as it has represented the opportunity to change what has not been working. Of course if we remember it is a Swords card, then we know that the card relates to our thinking and our ability to communicate. But of course this card has a general meaning of travel associated to it as well.

As other cards have shown, the Old English image differs slightly in its message to that of its traditional brother the Rider Waite. Of course we all know the image of the Rider Waite card of the six swords in a boat with its passengers and the ferry man. What those six swords seem to me to represent is that unless you understand why the original thought patterns you have, have caused you problems, then moving won’t solve them, as you just take them along for the journey! However, the card image does show us in its depiction of rough water on one side and smooth on the other, a degree of moving away from a difficult situation and towards something less fraught. So that sense of a brighter future exists.

The Old English doesn’t show us that transition from rough to smooth in its image, but it does most definitely show us movement. We have a female on a horse galloping along and ahead of her running two dogs. They all seem to know where they are heading: The direction is forwards! This card’s image then seems to speak to me of travel and of moving towards something new. Although it’s a Swords card, the image of the swords crisscrossed does seem to me to form some sort of barrier, and perhaps again it’s an indication that we must first understand our thought pattern in order for it not to be something that holds us back. The trees in this image are all in full leaf and fruiting. That sort of gives me the impression that the potential exists for a goal to come to fruition, but also the trees seem to be blown about by the wind, maybe reinforcing the air element of the Swords suit.

In the final conclusion, to me both the Rider Waite and the Old English speak of moving oneself towards something better. However, they both caution that in order to move into that new space one needs to understand the thought pattern that created the undesirable situation that they are now attempting to move out of.

I really do like these little drawings on the bottom of each of these Old English cards. They bring an extra dimension to my understanding of the traditional meanings to the cards.

LWB says:
Journey, travel exploration, overcoming difficulties, success after anxiety.
Reversed: Stalemate, unsavoury proposals.