[violet] I am feeling a little stagnant in terms of personal growth. I don’t know how far I am progressing and I don’t know what is in the way of progressing further. Maybe it’s myself… That doesn’t sound like a question. lol

[Serenity Bly] I get it though.

[violet] Thanks.

[Miss Michelle] What’s holding you back? Is the question in my assessment. And it’s a good one.

[Serenity Bly] “How can violet move forward?” Because I like to deal in positives not negatives. We don’t need to know what your block is, we need to know how to get you over it. So, lets see what the Tarot advises.

[violet] Yeah. I guess so, and where I currently stand in terms of how far I wish to progress. Yes!

[Serenity Bly] The words that come to mind is “bitch mode” *chuckles* This means more to me than it might to you. The Queen of Cups in the past shows that you’ve been very clingy with your emotions. You’ve let them dominate your choices. Letting the heart lead and sometimes forgetting to include the head. The present Queen of Pentacles shows a complete flip. You’re leading with your head (or rather following the money) but sometimes that means you leave your heart behind. The future Four of Cups indicates others having too much influence over you because of this lack of balance.

[Miss Michelle] That’s also a card of reaping what you’ve sown… enjoying the fruits of your work. The fact that these are all minor arcana shows us that it is ALL inside you to change this, Violet. You have all these aspects in your personality… let them share time. You ARE the queen.

[violet] Aw. Really? It feels like I am not taking on the leading role.

[Miss Michelle] That’s what you need to do, or you’ll wind up with that four of cups in the future. You CAN. You just need to take it. I’d even say that others are WAITING for you to. They see you as the queen.

[Serenity Bly] You’ve got your head and heart into conflict and, as such, don’t know what to think or feel. And the message that came was “bitch mode” which to me is a case of “doing what you feel like and stuff what anyone else thinks.” In my world, “bitch mode” is about 36 hours of me running roughshod over everyone. Being an utter b.i.t.c.h. because the world IS what I want and everyone else better fall into line. So what I feel like it saying is that YOU need to take that bossy role, to MAKE your path, to be demanding and pushy and make everyone else do what YOU want. Don’t let others manipulate you, your choices, or your opinions. Tell THEM what you expect from them and make sure they do as they’re told.

[violet] You mean be slightly more demanding?

[Serenity Bly] Not slightly. Demanding. Embrace your inner bitch. Bring your two Queens (or really all four of them) together. Stand up for YOU; rule your roost. And stop kneeling at the feet of others.

[Miss Michelle] Just take charge of whatever situation it is.

[violet] I am happy to invest my time and lend a helping hand for others. I wouldn’t really want to rely on another person to help me and I wouldn’t ask for help. I have learned to not have expectations of others instead, being hopeful so I do not really see a point in demanding of others?

[Serenity Bly] Then be demanding of yourself. Because your expectations for others to rise to their full potential. If you “hope” then you give permission for them (and yourself) to be less than they really are. Not having expectations, gives the universe and everyone in it room to negotiate with what you want and deserve. That’s why you NEED to take the Queen role. The Queen can be kind and giving, but SHE makes the law, and her community revolves under her hand. This reading shows that you have it in you to take that stand.

[violet] Oh! Thanks, Serenity! I guess I am slacking in terms of demanding more of myself lately.

[Miss Michelle] There’s NOTHING stopping you but yourself.

[violet] Thanks, Miss Michele! I am too influenced by others, in a way.

[Miss Michelle] You let others influence you, yet have no expectations of them… it seems one-sided. That’s something I struggle with, too, Violet. Taking charge. Even when it’s expected of me because of my role/position. But people want, need, and expect it. And when you exude that confidence, they will listen. And it doesn’t HAVE to be about being bossy so much as authoritative.

[Serenity Bly] Don’t forget, that a weak Queen will destroy her kingdom. A community NEEDS a strong leader, one who can make up their own mind and see through their choices. Without it they stagnate and ultimately crumble. So, if you can’t choose to take the role for yourself, take it for the people around you that need you to guide them. It’s also about putting aside “victim mode.” Take responsibility for your choices and know that you control your path.

[Miss Michelle] I’ve also seen diplomacy and poise work well.

[violet] It seems to me people will start giving me the grease for being too opinionated.

[Miss Michelle] It’s not about having an opinion just to have one. It’s about having the courage of your convictions and the self-confidence to get things done.

[Serenity Bly] So it’s not about being a “bitch” it’s about taking control of yourself and leading with a clear mind about what you want and being willing to guide others. Think of it more as embracing your inner Queens. Queens understand diplomacy and tact.

[violet] Oh. Thanks!

[Miss Michelle] People will NOT be upset with you if you take a leadership role in situations you know well. Or make demands (in a polite way) for things you deserve.

[violet] I guess I have been working my way around other people’s plans I am falling behind of mine!

[Miss Michelle] Yes. YOU need to put you first, because no one else will.

[violet] Yes, yes! I should!

[Miss Michelle] But, when you do, you’ll actually find others start to as well (if that makes sense) because you are showing you are deserving of it.

[Serenity Bly] And the term “bitch” in the positive sense is about knowing yourself and acting from a self-empowered core.

[violet] There is a bitch in a positive sense? Wow. Thanks, Miss Michele and Serenity, for the reading.

[Miss Michelle] “Babe In Total Control of Herself” was the phrase we used in high school. You’re welcome!

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[Miss Michelle] Ah, Low GI girl. Now the name makes sense.

[lowgigirl] No meds, no needles, just diet and exercise.

[Miss Michelle] Good for you!! I had gestational diabetes and beat it that way. This first card just makes me want to reach out and give you a hug… It’s the Four of Cups… And it shows how you let this affect you emotionally in the past. You needed a friend. There was emptiness… until you took control of things.  The rest of the cards: Four of Swords, Nine of Cups, and I felt need for a fourth, the Two of Wands. So when you found a non-medical solution, LowGIGirl, it represented hope.

[Serenity Bly] I’m also getting a feeling of “mixed messages” from the Four of Cups, as if it’s been hard to follow the “rules” of diet and exercise because there are so many different versions of them. There is a sense of confusion about what is “right.”

[Miss Michelle] I see a need for rest, avoidance of needles. “Lost” and “confused” from that card. Hence why, GI Girl, I wanted to give you a hug.

[lowgigirl] Being hungry makes me have bad moods.

[Miss Michelle] I’m sensing definite fear of the needles and medical treatments in the Four of Swords.

[Serenity Bly] And I’m getting an “OMG I’m Starving” sensation that makes me wonder if I should have eaten or if you should have. It’s making me literally jittery, as if your meal-time schedule is off balance, you need to eat more regularly. But like I said, it could be me needing to eat.

[Miss Michelle] The conventional definition for that Four of Swords is a forced rest period, possible hospitalization, treatments. BUT in this sense, I’m getting a FEAR of that, and avoidance of it. It is not–I want to stress not–an outcome. But it’s on your mind–understandably so. I’m also getting weariness from that Four of Swords…

[lowgigirl] I’m aware if I don’t behave I’ll be on needles next, I don’t want that so I try to be good.

[Miss Michelle] The Nine of Cups –the Wish card– tells me there’s hope you’ll do it. You’ll find the RIGHT diet that will leave you full and satiated, happy and healthy.

[Jen.N] Are needles a sure thing? Have you been on oral medication? (I know it’s not for everyone but it works for me.)

[lowgigirl] Not at this stage. I guess I just expect it down the track.

[Miss Michelle] Don’t expect it. (to be blunt.) You CAN beat this.

[Jen.N] A lot of people do well on oral medication and never have to go on shots.

[Miss Michelle] The Two of Wands that was calling to me to pull it out–I feel like you haven’t met the right doctor. You need a doctor who will look at you in a partnership… you and he (or she) against the disease.

[Jen.N] Miss Michele, Do you mean an actual doctor or a nutritionist/diabetes educator? In my experience, the doctor wasn’t all that helpful but referred me to a great diabetes educator. Could that be beneficial?

[lowgigirl] Educator? I haven’t gone down that path yet. It was on my 2010 list.

[Miss Michelle] Jen, you may be on to something… I’m just using doctor as a “medical professional” synonym.
I’m not getting a sense of “white coat,” etc. The only thing strong is the partnership aspect–like a nutrition coach.

[Serenity Bly] *nods* Yes, and having one giving you the facts will help you build a diet and exercise plan that you can fit into your lifestyle and follow without being confused by mixed messages.

[Jen.N] If your doctor won’t refer you to a diabetes educator, call the local hospital & see if they have one on staff. See if you can get an appointment. Also, do they have classes for new diabetics at your local hospital?

[Serenity Bly] The Two of Wands could also represent an accountability coach. Someone who is working with you to keep you on track. Or teamwork like joining with a program that focuses specifically on healthy eating/exercise (like Weight Watchers or Curves). You mentioned an emotional connection to your diet and diabetes. And if you’re FEELING like you’re “not sweet” you might be doing things with the way you eat that will aggravate your diabetes.

[lowgigirl] My doc did mention a diabetic educator but I didn’t have the time then. I do now.

[Serenity Bly] If you’re compensating for emotional imbalances with reactive diet it can create problems.

[Jen.N] The thing I’ve discovered about diabetes (among many others) is that it’s VERY susceptible to emotions. Stress can make it skyrocket.

[lowgigirl] I found that many things affect it drastically.

[Jen.N] Different things really do affect it drastically. And it’s different for everyone.

[lowgigirl] I just feel miserable most of the time. Not to the point of tears, though. But hubby just has to say the wrong thing and I’m angry easily.

[Miss Michelle] You are dealing with a very frustrating, stressful disease that, on top of other things, affects hormones and mood.

[Jen.N] That’s actually a sign of blood sugar problems, too.

[Serenity Bly] I was just thinking that Jen. The emotional instability is a vicious circle. If your stress is high you’ll have trouble with your diabetes which will cause your emotions to be off-kilter which will cause trouble with your diabetes.

[Miss Michelle] It sounds to me like you are not eating enough, because the lows create bad moods.

[lowgigirl] But if I eat more I will gain more weight.

[Jen.N] OK… Don’t think about eating more as gaining weight. Think about it as in stabilizing blood sugars and keeping your metabolism on a more even keel.

[Miss Michelle] I’m NOT a doctor and I don’t know how you’re eating… But just based on what you’re saying… you may need to eat more food at meal times or eat smaller meals more frequently.

[Serenity Bly] Don’t forget that eating more isn’t about eating junk. It’s about choosing to eat the right kinds of food, more frequently and in smaller portions. Eating something every two hours instead of every five will make a HUGE difference to the stability of your sugar levels and your moods. But the something you eat every two hours should half what you would have eaten if you waited five hours.

[Jen.N] Frequent smaller meals = more level blood sugar and better metabolism which in turn = weight LOSS! And you don’t have to eat a lot. Invest in fruits you like — but not many oranges & citrus fruits — and string cheese and nuts.

[Serenity Bly] But you KNOW this. At least I feel like you know it in theory but are having trouble believing it can work. The only way you can prove to yourself it will work is to try it.

[lowgigirl] I feel like I should be exercising but exercise just give me the shakes.

[Serenity Bly] If exercise gives you the shakes it’s because you’re definitely under-eating.

[lowgigirl] So in summary: Get hugs. Get a dietitian. Eat small meals frequently.

[Miss Michelle] YES you got it.  

[lowgigirl] Thanks, all of you.

[Serenity Bly] *chuckles* In summary, “This has been very draining for you emotionally”, “you’ve faced a lot of confusion about the right way to deal with your diabetes”, “you need to work together with a dietitian to understand the best way to handle your situation,” “you should consider working with a friend or program for accountability”, “focus on keeping a balanced diet of small meals more frequently”, and “exercise, but only if you’ve had a solid meal not long before.” You CAN do this!

[Miss Michelle] EXPECT success. You CAN beat this, and your mindset can help… once you get the blood sugars under control.   

[Jen.N] And don’t get overwhelmed. A diabetes educator will help you to avoid that. If you think too much about what you can and can’t, should and shouldn’t, it all gets VERY overwhelming.

[Serenity Bly] Take it one day at a time. And worry less about what the scales say as to what your body and generally well-being say. If getting your diabetes under control means you do gain weight in the short term that’s okay. Once you’ve got the emotional swings under control you’ll find it easier to bring the weight back down. But I think you’ll find you’re probably under-eating rather than over-eating, and so eating more frequently will actually help you lose weight.

[lowgigirl] I’ve been so focused on not gaining weight that everything else seemed so hard.

[Serenity Bly] And, please talk to us if you need help or just want someone to talk to about it. It can be very confusing, it’s hard to know who to trust and what advice to follow. But sometimes what you really need is a chance to vent frustration or to have a really, really good long cry.

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January: Strength

This month began with personal growth for you, as we’ve seen. You’ve learned how to harness your inner strength to begin making positive changes in your life, and also learned how to capitalize on your own strengths for business success. In the process, you’ve learned you’re stronger than you’ve always believed.

February: Four of Wands

Expect a celebration of your successes in February, gatherings with friends and plenty of social invitations.

March: Justice

This month, you are able to balance discipline with kindness. You have fabulous ideas and are able to view things from unique perspectives. This card represents your getting in better touch with your classroom persona – you are strict, but kind and wise. Remember to maintain balance in all you do. Watch out for responsibilities that may drain you of time and energy, but offer little in return.

April: Two of Swords

The spring, March and April, is also about balance, indicated by the coupling of Justice with the Two of Swords. When I look at May (Four of Cups), and the clarification card I felt called to draw, it all comes together. You may be doing too much! You were on a whirlwind of utter excitement and success, but began neglecting certain health matters. (For instance, pay attention to eating balanced, frequent meals to keep your blood sugar on an even keel?) You may feel as if people – family, clients, your day job, other commitments, are pulling you in too many directions.

As shown by the Two of Swords, a powerfully graphic card showing a woman, arms crossed, blindfolded, there are factors you are choosing not to see. People who may want, want, want, without being willing to give back. And in this case, there is nothing in it for you. You’re better to walk away…for your health.

When I pulled a clarification card, the Four of Swords came out, and the Five of Cups kind of hitched a ride with it. Granted, my Robin Wood deck is smooth and slick, especially on the graphite surface of my new desk, but the meaning is clear… You must be aware of your health or, (Four of Swords) a rest will be forced upon you. The Five of Cups indicates loss, disappointment, poverty and mourning of what may have been. Again, this could be your feelings if you don’t do what’s necessary. Now is a good time to evaluate all your balls in the air and decide what isn’t crucial and most importantly, what doesn’t provide you joy.

As friends and colleagues of yours, both Serenity Bly and Miss Michele would like to remind you of the support system you have here. Turn to us for help, whether for additional readings, professional support or simply a shoulder. You also have other strong support systems… use them. It’s important not to retreat in the spring.

May: Four of Cups

The Four of Cups represents the aftermath of what is admittedly, a rough April. Again, I want to remind you it will only be rough if you make it that way. By being aware of those factors, acknowledging them, and choosing to focus on making things otherwise, you CAN change it! The Cups in the Four of Cups may be empty, but empty cups mean potential to fill them.

June: Ace of Pentacles

That opportunity comes in June when you literally face a new beginning, perhaps a new business idea. It certainly indicates a renewal of your energy. And what better time for a rebirth?!

July: Nine of Cups

I absolutely love this card, the Wish fulfillment card, and it’s perfectly suited for you at this stage. You are seeing that truly, whatever you ask for, the Universe offers. Your job is simply to allow it in and know you deserve it. Conceive – believe – receive… where have you heard that before?

August: Ten of Cups

Success continues in August… there’s hard work ahead, but you are fit and ready for the task.

September: The Devil

There will be more pulling and demands of your time in September… challenges similar to what you faced in the Spring will rear their heads again. You’ll need to stand your ground against people who want a piece of you – and may not deserve it, appreciate you or be willing to pay what you’re worth. Additionally, the Devil indicates a desire to bury your head in the sand, ignore all the work and demands you face, and goof off. Resist that desire, as then tasks will only build. Do what you can, and say “No,” (or, better yet, “Not now, thank you”) to the rest.

October: Tower

You experience a significant breakthrough in October, that begins paving the way to the “new you.” You realize, after that “Devil moment” in September, that things absolutely cannot continue the way they are. I’m wondering if this doesn’t indicate your leaving your day job… under circumstances that surprise you but ultimately, wind up for the best. You definitely do NOT emerge the same woman you were in the beginning of October by month’s end.

November: The Magician

Following your Tower breakthrough, you become a master at harnessing your skills and talents to achieve success. The Magician’s number, 1, indicates you’re still at the beginning of this journey, but that’s okay. The Magician is proficient at what he achieves when he uses his special skills.

December: Queen of Pentacles

An extension of the Magician, with an emphasis on the feminine, you see the fruits of your labors from November. This card also indicates your role as a caregiver of those around you, and a hostess for the holidays. You are in “nesting” mode, preparing your home for the holidays, baking, shopping, and making things.

Overview: 5 of Pentacles

This overview card, often signifying poverty, seems to contradict the positivity in the rest of the reading. In fact, in this case, the card represents Recovery. Rather than showing the year, it shows where you were – in despair, with both health and financial problems, coupled with a dose of self-doubt. Unfortunately, these shadows of your former self still haunt in you—even in the face of your great successes in 2010.

The best way to contradict these feelings is to be aware they are there. Do not forget your roots, or what can happen if you stop working, change paths or give up your dreams. By the same token, it’s important not to harp on it. Acknowledge it as part of your past, and move on. It is no longer you. In the Robin Wood deck, the person with the can, with one leg and a bandage over one eye, is forging ahead, in contrast to the destitute person crumbled on the floor beside them. You, too, must forge ahead in spite of any of your perceived in adequacies – because that is all they are. YOUR perceptions. Other people view you as the Strength card of January, the Queen of Pents, and the Magician – all figures which feature prominently in this year for you.

With all the Cups and Pentacles in this reading, along with Major Arcana, this will be a significant year of you learning to make money doing what you love. It will be about finding personal fulfillment and, from that, the money will follow. Most cards are lower – ones, fours and fives, indicating you are in the beginning stages of this development. However, bright spots include that 9 and 10 of Cups in the summer. It is a year to look forward to, to dive in headfirst and accept all the good the Universe is offering you.

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The year 2009 is shaping up to be characterized by: “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Your dreams know no limits, and you have the power, strength, intelligence, and skills to realize every dream you have, everything you can possibly imagine. Miss Michele wouldn’t be surprised, with the plethora of Cups in this spread, if you’ve been searching for Mr. Right for some time – perhaps may have given up hope of ever sharing your life with someone special. If that is the case, this will be the year for romance for you!

Rarely have I seen so many Major Arcanas in a 12-month spread, which means this is a BIG year for you. Lots of significant changes are on the horizon. The year’s overview is represented by the 7 of Cups, the card of Daydreams. You may feel somewhat “off,” as if you can’t focus your mind on reality. That’s okay, though, because it is your wild imagination and ability to “dream big” that will bring you success this year – in career fulfillment and matters of the heart. Don’t worry if the money isn’t forthcoming this year; 2009 and the beginning of 2010 is all about emotional and spiritual fulfillment, which you will receive.

May: Knight of Pentacles: This month kicked off with preparations for some major changes in finance and career, which could have sparked your ordering this spread. You want to see which direction is best to take. Knights indicate changes on the horizon, but still in the early planning stages. Based on surrounding cards, moving forward will serve you well at this time.

June: Strength: You’ll need to harness your strength and most importantly, your feminine intuition, loving nature and above all, strength in character in order to succeed in your new – or simply expanded – business endeavors. The card Strength represent feminine strength of character rather than brute force. You can finesse your way into positive situations.

July: Eight of Wands: Things are moving full speed ahead for you. This card typically represents a new job offer or incredible business success. You may just be swamped with orders – so much that you need to hire help for certain aspects of you’re business. Your business is growing, and your income with it.

August: The Emperor: Come August, you’ll want to do things by the book, to avoid any issues or legal hassles. Someone may question the validity of your business, but you will be able to prove its worth with logic and calm grace. Also look for a male to figure prominently, perhaps in a management role; he can help take your business to the next level.

September: The Chariot: This card often indicates literal travel – perhaps for business or it could be time for a vacation. It also indicates, in this spread, that things are moving quickly for you. This entire year represents rapid growth and development.

October: The Magician: You are becoming a master at using your skills and talents to manipulate situations the way you want them. If you can visualize it, you can complete it this year. Lots of masculine energy in this reading makes me believe a male mentor will come into your life, probably showing up as the Emperor in August, and you will really begin to apply what he has been teaching you come October.

November: Four of Cups: The approach of the holiday season leaves you feeling a bit “off.” All these celebrations seem empty and devoid of meaning, and you don’t have any desire to be lifted out of your doldrums. This isn’t how you usually act – you may be missing someone who was close to you. Perhaps the strong male influence has stepped out of your life for reasons you don’t quite understand. The tarot’s advice? Step back to the roots of it all, why you do what you do. Devote time to a favorite charity and then step back and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You may have simply lost direction in your life… step back and consider what it is you really desire.

December: Knight of Cups: Things turn around with the Knight of Cups – Knights literally represent change, and Cups show an emotional change, a complete turn-around from November’s mood. You’ve re-connected with your dreams and goals and begin pursuing them again without hesitation or doubts.

January 2010: Nine of Cups: The New Year brings the fulfillment of the dreams you began to pursue with the Knight of Cups in December. The Knight may also represent a new love, and January’s Nine of Cups signifies the development of that relationship.

February 2010: Ace of Wands: As the Nine of Cups indicated the fulfillment of your dreams, you enter the next phase of your development with the Ace of Wands in February. Combined with the High Priestess in March, I wonder if a marriage, pregnancy or birth could be in the cards. You are bursting with ideas and the discipline and energy to execute them! It’s an exciting time of year for you.

March 2010: High Priestess: The High Priestess, shows that your feminine intuition serves you well in making upcoming decisions, in both business and your personal life. Don’t be afraid to open your heart and reach out, particularly in the realm of personal relationships – it is time! Do your research, though, and the answers will come easy.

April 2010: The Lovers: You’ll face a crucial decision this month, perhaps in regard to a new love. You will make the right choice.

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