Friday, May 31, 2013


The Star/Eight of Swords reversed. The Star (Air, hot/separates and wet/adapts; Aquarius; Qof, back of head; the Path between Malkuth, the physical world of action and outer, physical reality, and Netzach, the stimulating factors of emotion and inspiration) is the “good will to all” card.  This card is serene and soft, and tells us to go to a quiet place so we can be aware of our own synergy with the world.  Some say this represents the presence of a soft, serene inner light, bringing hope and optimism.  The Eight of Swords (Jupiter, expansiveness and growth, justice, fortune, in Gemini, “I think,” curious, sociable talkative, dual) in an upright position tells of a confused and restrictive response to obstacles.  Sometimes analyzing a situation too much ends up dropping us into a feedback loop.  Thankfully that should not be an issue today; The Star will allow me to go within, without ending up trapped there.

My Thoth card is the Five of Cups reversed.  “Disappointment” is Crowley’s keyword for this one. The Five of Cups (Mars, action, aggression, drive, in Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, mysterious, obsessive) tells of an emotional setback, or perhaps the belief that a wrong choice has been made.  There is a sense of isolation that comes with this kind of setback, but since my card is reversed today, that isolation will not affect me in a negative way.  Kind of supports the interpretation of the first two cards. 

My Legacy card is the Page of Wands reversed, flavored by The Hanging Man.  Okay, then. The Page of Wands (Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, tenacious, nurturing, moody; Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic noble egotistical; and Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) is a fun guy to be around, unless you have a migraine, and since my Page is reversed today, he’s not going to be a help to me.  Indecision may be an issue, but the card flavoring my reversed Page of Wands, The Hanging Man, encourages me to allow that indecision to blossom. The Hanging Man corresponds with Water (cold/binds and wet/adapts, and emotional, sensitive and imaginative energy that tends to move deep, and attempts to take the same path as in the past), Neptune (inspiration, spirituality, magick, enchantment, dreams, altered states), and the Hebrew letter Mem (water, stability and balance, the reflective quality of thought) presents the kind of balance that comes to us through surrender, and through seeing things in a different way.  He is telling me that my indecision could end up helping me to see things in a new way.  As strange as it sounds, it appears that my Hanging Man is telling me to surrender to the transformative power of Fire rather than trying to control it.  The youthful outlook of the Page could give me the courage to hang upside down, and see how things look from there!

My 6-digit date number is 4, the number of depth and stability.

My horoscopes: “A lot of activity could take place around home today. It could involve a number of visitors, or it could simply be a lot of work that needs doing. Either way, you might feel a bit frazzled, and the temptation to run away from it all might be almost irresistible. Relax! There's no need to stress out. Just do what needs to be done and enjoy the rest of the day.

And: “Your current astral skies force you to undertake one of the hardest exercises of confidence there is. Your life has been so tossed about lately that you may yearn only for the security of landing on your feet, with little heed to where you land. Give more thought to your landing pad, dear, and you will find that your life changes in amazing new ways.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the King of Pentacles.  The King of Pentacles in the Shadowscapes Tarot is surrounded by mature oak trees.  These trees are strong and straight, as oaks usually are, and they look like they would weather most storms.  The branches are festooned with many acorns, and the cool thing about this is that if a storm comes, those ripe acorns will end up planted in fertile soil, so the cycle of growth can begin again.

It is after 6 pm, and I am sitting on my porch in Cape May, waving to the people on the horse-drawn carriages that pass by.  It is lovely out here; blue sky, comfortable temperature, and a nice breeze to chase away the skeeters.  I spent the afternoon, after leaving steamy Bergen County (it went up over 90 today there!!), working on the garden in the back yard.  Tomorrow, after going for bread, I will work in the front.  However, there is not much for me to do.  The grass is cut already, and I won’t be trimming my privets because they are covered with flower buds.  I love the fragrance of privet flowers!!

My peony has opened; it is a lovely, vibrant and deep rose color.  We still have Siberian iris and regular iris, and we’ve got loads of roses, pink, white, yellow and red.  The first black-eyed-susan has opened, and soon there will be flowers all over the place. 

Clematis is still blooming, but getting toward the end.  I might need to get some annuals at some point, either tomorrow or next weekend, and get them in. 

Tonight, I will work on YTT homework, and on my Third Degree Lesson 10.  Maybe I will bring my stuff out onto the porch!

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Thursday, May 30, 2013


Ace of Swords/Ten of Wands. The Ace of Swords (Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, caution authority, cunning, Aquarius and Pisces, “I believe,” feeling, duality, soul growth, artistic) tells of the potential within the day to effectively use mental or intellectual abilities. I just might be able to make sense out of the chaos today.  I need to remember that every situation or interaction of the day offers an opportunity to grown; if I can perceive them, I can take advantage of them. The Ten of Wands (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitations and resistance, in Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering) tells of being taxed to some perceived limit, or of feeling as if we are out of gas at the bottom of a hill.  The suit of Wands corresponds to Fire, and when Fire runs out of fuel, it dies away.  But Air can be fuel for Fire, and the suit of Swords corresponds to Air.  While making sense of a difficult situation might not necessarily make it go away, it could allow me to muster my Will and just get that situation taken care of once and for all.  Then I can collapse.

My Thoth card is the Queen of Disks. The Queen of Disks (cusp of Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering, and Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, caution, cunning, authoritative) is very good at sustaining the physical world, keeping things dry and cozy and safe and orderly.  She might be able to show me how to keep the energy flowing nicely today, without any blockages that could necessitate a violent correction.  And maybe her advice is to sit back with a cool drink and a satisfied smile, and just watch what happens.

My Legacy card is the Six of Coins reversed, flavored by the Ace of Coins reversed.  Looks like I won’t be too effective in the physical world today, eh?  But there is that Queen of Disks above. The Six of Coins (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Taurus, “I have,” Sensual, cautious, stubborn) in an upright position brings an awareness of resources to the situation, both those that I have and those that I don’t have. This is the awareness that being rich does not just mean having physical possessions, and it is the awareness that sometimes the best thing we can do with bounty is share it. Aces present potential only, and the Ace of Coins (Aries, “I want,” action oriented, assertive, competitive, Taurus, “I have,” sensual, cautious, stubborn, and Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, dual, social) tells of the presence of potential that is connected in some way to the physical world.  My Ace is reversed today, and this might be a warning that I don’t know what I think I know.  Combined with that reversed Six of Coins, I might need to be wary about managing my physical world resources today.  I could end up needing something I don’t have, or squandering something I thought I had a lot of.  That Ten of Wands above is looking a bit more ominous; thank goodness for the Queen of Disks.  What do you think, Uncle Al?  Maybe she can save the day?

My 6-digit date number is 3, the number that tells of a new creation out of the potential and position of the Ace, and the balance, polarity, and energy of “distance between” of the 2.

My horoscopes: “You may wonder why all the attention isn't focused on you, Sagittarius. Perhaps you feel cheated and irritable. The more annoyed you get, the more you will drive others away instead of draw them to you. Rather than get upset or angry because attention isn't coming your way, join with the prevailing happy-go-lucky mood. You will find that your whole day turns around for the better.

And: “It might be one of those days, where you try on a zillion different outfits and nothing looks good. Or at least to you, nothing does. Try to avoid getting into this sort of self-hate ritual of thinking you're too fat, too thin, too bloated, too fair - too anything. Or this outfit is no good because it's too bright, casual or whatever. Turn it around by telling yourself over and over that you look fabulous - out-loud if need be. Praise yourself for being exactly as you are. Making a clothing choice should be tough because everything looks too good!

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Nine of Cups.  It really is that simple!  You’ve gotta love the one you’re with, or love the world you’ve been given.  Pleasure and satisfaction can be had in just about every situation; we just need to look for that pleasure and that satisfaction, and we will find it!  Enjoy!!

Another Wild Unknown Tarot card: The Eight of Cups.  This one shows a black, craggy mountain in the background with a dark sky, and eight shattered Cups in the foreground.  The message here actually may not be clear to some people, but it is there nevertheless.  Sometimes things are so broken that we are better off walking away.  There, I said it.  This image shows broken Cups with that dark mountain which is shutting out the light, which means that even if we had some glue, we won’t be able to effectively attempt to fix things.  We would be better off if we close ourselves off from the impossible task and turn away; this way, we can begin again and maybe, just maybe, receive a bit more fulfillment.

More work done on my Third Degree Lesson 10!

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Wednesday, May 29, 2013


The High Priestess/Seven of Swords reversed. The High Priestess (Water; the Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination; Gimel, the camel who safely crosses Da’ath, the Abyss, and thus, has the secret of life; and the Path between Tiphareth, the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify, and Kether, the source, limitless possibility), the other half of the Major Arcana representation of the Sacred Feminine; The High Priestess is the source of the power of The Magician, the feminine version of The Hierophant, and the Keeper of the Mysteries.  She reminds us of the power to be had from allowing things to unfold without intervention, or better yet, to allow things to influence us rather than attempting to influence them.  This card also reminds us that the Inner Voice often offers much knowledge, but we may need to do some work in order to understand that knowledge. The Seven of Swords (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, cause-oriented, the group, aloofness) in an upright position tells of the effort to maintain things as we want them, often through the use of deception and without considering the wants or needs of others.  My Seven of Swords is reversed, and I am being told by this card that kindness and openness and honesty are important, as well as working toward the higher good of all.

My Thoth card is the Knight of Wands. The Thoth rank of Knight is actually the same as the King in other decks.  The Knight/King of Wands (cusp of Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, nurturing, moody, and Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic egotistical) is honest and open hearted, and rules his realm through the advantageous use of his creative impulses.  He is a natural leader with infectious enthusiasm who is able to motivate others through his enthusiasm for new experiences. However, this Knight/King tends to put everything into his first effort, and ends up running out of gas.  A warning, perhaps?

My Legacy card is the Knight of Coins reversed, flavored by the Ten of Coins. The Knight of Coins (cusp of Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic, egotistical, and Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) in an upright position tells of persistence to the point of being stubborn, and caution to the point of being boring.  Because my Knight is reversed, he is kind of supporting The High Priestess above and reminding me that sticking to a plan isn’t always the best choice.  The Ten of Coins (Mercury, reason, intelligence, education, communication, in Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) in an upright position represents physical world wealth and bounty, and the attempt to maintain the status quo.  My Ten is reversed, and again I am being told that striving to maintain the current situation may not work so well.  Guess what I am going to focus on today?

My 6-digit date number is 2, the number of balance, polarity, and the energy of “distance between.”

My horoscopes: “No one likes rejection, but no one likes rejection less than you, Sagittarius. You may hesitate to take risks in the unknown. Keep in mind that by playing it safe, you deprive yourself of the very adventure that could turn your life around. There's an energetic, expansive feeling in the air encouraging you to take that leap of faith. This energy may feel foreign to you, but it's time to embrace it.

And: “You are likely to receive an incredible energy boost toward the end of the day that is going to help you power through just about anything. The key is to not burn up all of this rocket fuel at once. If you crank your engine up to full speed and aim straight up, it won't be long until you run out of gas and slowly fall toward the ground. Instead, you are better off conserving your fuel and heading out at an angle that will launch you far and keep you going strong for the rest of the day.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the King of Cups.  This King can read the knowledge of the centuries that is written into the workings of nature, and within him is the timeless and immeasurable power of the sea.  He protects and he heals, he offers compassion and care, and he shows us the benefit of choosing to go with the flow.

Well, I had my nice time of relaxation, and now I’ve got a backlog.  Today is back-to-work day, and it’s going to be a crazy one.  But I can do this!  I’ve got some YTT homework to work on, and yay!  I’ve not only been given the go-ahead to move on to Lesson 10 of Third Degree, but also told that I don’t need to do Lesson 11, which is focused on advanced spellcrafting, because of the Second Degree Lessons and Study Halls that I have written.  This means I am on the next to the last Lesson in Third Degree Training!

I will be re-reading the information I compiled about the Great Rite over the next week or so, and then I will begin writing the essay required within this Lesson’s homework assignment.  But first, time for a Yoga class!

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Tuesday, May 28, 2013


Transparent Oracle Sunday!!  On Tuesday!!

20, Elemental: Salamander (South).  South is the direction of the midday sun and the peak of power and illumination; this direction is associated with passionate drive and creativity.  Salamander is also intense in personality, but this one is about consumption of fuel, and the changes and transformations that happen through consumption of fuel.  The changes presented by Salamander are more transmutation than transformation or metamorphosis.  Salamanders are actually known for putting out fires!  This is because they consume all fuel and then the flames themselves.  They are true experts, and know just how to handle Fire and its tricky nature. 

56, Grail Hollows: The Cauldron (Below).  The direction of Below is not easily associated with spirituality, yet it is a powerful symbol representing the opportunity to create a strong foundation, and to connect to the tools and powers of the Underworld.  The Grail Hollows are ancient treasures deeply connected to each of the four elements, guarded throughout time by the Tuatha de Danaan.  The Cauldron corresponds with the element of Water, and thus, with feelings, emotions, intuition, nourishment and healing, all necessary for the balance and harmony of the Self.  Within Wicca, The Cauldron is also seen as a representation of the Sacred Feminine, the Goddess, and Her fertile womb. 

4, Time of Day: Dawn (East).  East is the direction of the rising sun, and thus of new beginnings and fresh ideas, as well as knowledge, intellectual ideas and thoughts.  Dawn is a magickal time, a crossroad between the quiet and serenity of night, and the action and manifestation of the day.  With the first rays of the rising sun we move out of our dreaming consciousness and into an awakened perception, and it is during this crossroad that we might be able to bring the messages of our dreams into the light of day, so we can better manifest them.

I then created my mandala.  Wow!!  The Salamanders are in the middle of The Cauldron, as if The Cauldron was the container of their energy.  The rays of the Dawn sun are illuminating the entire mandala.  This mandala tells me that there are powerful energies available to me, and it might be a good time to access them or make use of them.  What I access is going to transform me, and will act as a catalyst to bring physical manifestation.  This could end up being like a Reiki attunement, healing and balancing along with harmony and new awareness.

I gave myself the gift of a relatively-unplugged few days.  I checked the computer for problems or issues (thankfully, there were none that I was privy to), and pretty much relaxed on my porch.  The weather was cool and lovely, breezy and with a warm sun shining in a blue sky.  I rested my mind and my body, I went to the Breadstand, and had lunch with friends who were visiting Cape May, and worked in my beloved garden. 

Back to reality!

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Friday, May 24, 2013


Queen of Swords/Four of Pentacles. The Queen of Swords (cusp of Virgo, “I serve,” practical, sensible, work and service oriented, and Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation, grace) can be considered a Minor Arcana representation of the Justice card, which is about responsibility and the relationship between “cause” and “effect.”  My Queen is reminding me to be realistic and face the truth, but also to never lose the ability to laugh at myself.  The Four of Pentacles (the Sun, the inner core of a person or situation or the deepest self, in Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, authority, caution cunning) tells of very solid foundations and an awareness of the value of our possessions.  This awareness can be a good thing, but in many situations the control and structure and order being imposed by the energies of this card end up obstructing a situation, or in the very least, fostering stagnation.  I need to take off the rose-colored glasses and see things exactly how they are.  If they don’t meet with the plan, I should laugh rather than cling.

My Thoth card is the Prince of Swords.  The Prince/Knight of Swords (the cusp of Taurus, “I have,” sensual, stubborn, cautious, and Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, dual, intelligent) is outspoken, assured, alert, and logical, as well as rude, domineering, critical and sarcastic.  He is a slightly more intense version of the Queen above, without the sense of humor.  This Knight has his own unique version of perfection, and any lack of tolerance of the opinions of others today could aid and abet the negative effects of that Four of Pentacles above.

My Legacy card is the Seven of Wands reversed, flavored by the Seven of Cups.  The Seven of Wands (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, drive, in Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic, natural leader, egotistical, selfish) in an upright position reminds me that my own judgment is worth relying on.  My reversed Seven is telling me that an actively defensive attitude might not work; suspension or surrender might be more effective.  LOL, tell that to the Prince of Swords above!  My reversed Seven of Wands is being flavored by an upright 7 card, the Seven of Cups.  The Seven of Cups (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, obsessive, mysterious) represents the distraction, sensory overload and dissipation that can happen when we are presented with too many enticing choices. The traditional image of the Seven of Cups shows seven cups, each filled with what appears to be a wonderful gift: the Wreath (Saturn and The World); the Castle (Mars and The Tower), the Woman (Venus and The Empress); the Snake (Mercury and The Magician); the Veil (the Moon and The High Priestess), the Jewels (Jupiter and The Wheel of Fortune), and the Dragon (our Sun and The Sun). Yep, all Major Arcana cards, so these choices are important.  Maybe this exact situation is why the Seven of Wands is reversed; I should not be defending the position of being able to choose today, particularly when the choices are major or far-reaching ones.  Better to listen to that Queen of Swords above, and examine things with very open eyes and an intact sense of humor!

My Pearls of Wisdom Full Moon card is the Nine of Wands.  The Nine of Wands (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering) tells us to prepare for the worst, but to wait before being aggressive.  This card is about the kind of strength we need to overcome challenges, and to deal with changes necessary for stability.  Strategic withdrawals can be a good thing, as long as we look at consequences.  Living to fight another day may be a good focus for the next couple of weeks. 

My 6-digit date number is 6, the number of vertical and horizontal balance.  Great card for a full moon!

My horoscopes: “If you have someone special in your life, Sagittarius, today is a perfect day to stop playing at being your partner's parent, as you sometimes seem to do. Reverse roles, and let other people take care of you. The world won't fall apart if you let go for a while. No matter what happens, a day like today should open your eyes.”

And: “Today is not a good day to discuss money matters with family members. Arguments over spending that would serve no purpose except to churn up bad feelings could well take place. Basically, your financial situation is probably fine, but frustrations that may have little or nothing to do with money might tend to cloud that issue today. Wait until tomorrow to go over your budget. You'll see things more clearly then!”

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Seven of Swords.  Attempting to shirk responsibilities or to not see the world as it truly is can be a huge waste of valuable energy.  It really isn’t difficult to just get going and do what needs to be done, and perceiving reality (and at least understanding what we are dealing with) can be followed by a choice to continue on in our own way as long as we take into account that reality.  Careful!

Another busy day, but it looks like I will be able to relax a bit over the weekend.  Just a few more things to do, and then I can close things up.  **crosses fingers**

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Thursday, May 23, 2013


Two of Cups reversed/The Universe.  The Two of Cups (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, family and home oriented, tenacious, moody) tells of about love and connections, usually having to do with feelings, relationships and commonalities.  My Two of Cups is reversed, so today may not be about emotional connections to others.  This might not be a bad thing, however; sometimes solitude is needed in order to settle in.  The Universe/World, which corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and material, stable and practical energy that is slow to change), Saturn (discipline, responsibility, limitations and resistance), Thav (mark or sign), and the Path between Malkuth (the physical world of action and physical, outer reality) and Yesod (the place where patterns and images emerge that may manifest into the physical world) is a card of integration and involvement and understanding, a crystallization of the entire issue at hand.  This is the second day in a row that this card has appeared for me; good energies, eh?  Goals may coalesce for me today, and by the end of the day I might feel that I have accomplished a lot.  Perhaps if I am even able to rise up out of this personal sense of accomplishment and attempt to share it with others, I will turn that Two of Cups upright.

My Thoth card is the Prince of Wands.  Woohoo!!  The Prince/Knight of Wands (cusp of Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, deep, obsessive, and Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering) usually represents a person of passion, courage, enthusiasm and boundless energy; most definitely not background-type efforts.  This Prince is encouraging me to grab the day and enjoy my own skills and ability with passion.  Pausing and assessing is for another day.

My Legacy card is the Three of Coins, flavored by the Seven of Coins reversed.  There’s a clear message!  The Three of Coins (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, drive, in Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, cunning, competence) tells of competence, planning and teamwork.  While my reversed Two of Cups may be hinting that emotional connections won’t serve me today, that does not mean I need to isolate myself from my team.  If I can get others on board with my plan, the work will go faster and the end result will be more accurate.  The Seven of Coins (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, law and order, in Taurus, “I have,” sensual, cautious, stubborn) tells of pauses and choices and assessments within the physical world.  My Seven of Coins is reversed, and it is giving fuel to the fire of the Prince of Wands above.  My reversed Seven of Coins is flavoring my Three of Coins, verifying that I am on the right track when I bring others into the tasks for the day.

My 6-digit date number is 5, the number that tells of the energy of movement that upsets stability but also helps to prevent stagnation.

My horoscopes: “Today could discourage even the most ardent of passions, Sagittarius. Even if some people say you're a bit cold, know that there's a veritable volcano burning underneath all that ice. Today you may once again find yourself at a distance from your feelings, as if you were regaining control over your emotions. Be careful about being too cynical about things.

And: “Just when you thought you couldn't take any more pressure, you are pushed up even harder against the wall. In some respects, you are ready to explode. Find a physical activity to engage in - something that will keep you busy and give you an outlet for the tremendous amount of energy that you have pent up inside. Things are coming to a difficult climax in your life - especially in your communications with others. Find a way to calm yourself down and deal with your emotions before you end up lashing out in anger toward someone you love.

My Shadowscapes Insight is The Magician.  Oh, I like this one!  This one is about being initiated into the mysteries of the elements; a perfect description for The Magician.  This is a personally significant card for me, and having it appear today is a potent message.  I have the skills to get things done, and I have the experience to make use of those skills.  I have a deep connection to The Source of all.  What more do I need?

Craziness and busy-ness have been the theme of this week.  But, things are getting accomplished.  Lesson 9 of Third Degree has been submitted and I am waiting for a response.  June submission for my column, “Tarot Talk,” in PaganPages.org has been submitted and acknowledged.  I’ve responded to the Reiki I and II Assessments and the Degree homeworks in my bin.  And I’ve done some of my YTT homework.  I’ve got more to accomplish tomorrow, plus I see my private belly dance student.  But then, it’s on to the Blue Moon House, and Memorial Day Weekend!

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Wednesday, May 22, 2013


Page of Swords reversed/Page of Cups.  Clear message, that!  The Page of Swords (Capricorn, “I build,” ambitious, competent, cautious, cunning, Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, the group, society, cause-oriented, and Pisces, “I believe,” feelings, duality, soul growth, spirituality) in an upright position tells us to use our mind and intellect to analyze our situations as well as our emotions and feelings.  This card tells me to be a bit protective of myself, and perhaps defensive of thoughts and beliefs.  However, my Page of Swords is reversed so perhaps I need to guide against paranoia.  Plots may seem to be everywhere, and this could be a dangerous distraction.  The Page of Cups corresponds to Libra (“we are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation), Scorpio (“I desire,” intensity compulsion, mystery) and Sagittarius (“I seek,” philosophic, adventurous, blundering) is a card of soft and tender energies and of getting fulfillment through connections to others.  My connections to others are important today (although my reversed Page of Swords might agree for different reasons), and my Inner Voice just might have some important insight to offer.  Love may be more important than defense, but I do need to remember that the love brought into play by the Page of Cups is somewhat immature.  Is that good or bad?

My Thoth card is The Universe.  Wow!!  The Universe/World, which corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and material, stable and practical energy that is slow to change), Saturn (discipline, responsibility, limitations and resistance), Thav (mark or sign), and the Path between Malkuth (the physical world of action and physical, outer reality) and Yesod (the place where patterns and images emerge that may manifest into the physical world) is a card of integration and involvement and understanding, a crystallization of the entire issue at hand.  Crowley sees The Universe as a representation of the completion of the Great Work of alchemy.  The cool thing is that within the symbolism of completion that is The Universe are symbols of the fertility of the Sacred Feminine and the catalyst of the Sacred Masculine; a new beginning!

My Legacy card is Faith reversed, flavored by the Four of Wands.  Faith/The Hierophant corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes), Taurus (“I have,” sensual, cautious, stubborn), Vau (the nail which holds tradition in place), and the Path between Chesed (the place where forms and structures are stabilized and nurtured), and Chokmah (dynamic male energy, the origin of vital force and polarity).  This card is an archetype of Spirit (with The Emperor as archetype of the Sacred Masculine, The Empress as archetype of the Sacred Feminine, and all three representing the supernal triad) that reminds us of the value of tradition, ritual and ceremony.  The Hierophant can be said to be the keeper of tradition, and the teacher of culture. We can also say that his purpose is also to convince others of the value of the tradition and culture he guards. My Faith/Hierophant is reversed today, and it is suggesting that identification with the group may not lead to success.  Sometime we need to boldly go where no man has gone before.  The Four of Wands (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Aries, “I want,” action oriented, assertive, enthusiastic), which is flavoring my reversed Faith card,  is about building enough to become established, about the results of harmony and effort and creativity combined. The foundation that has been created is solid and tangible, and it should allow us to more easily visualize our goals, and if we are lucky, actually see them beginning to manifest in the physical world.  The goals being manifested may not be connected with any particular tradition or culture, even if my intention in the beginning was for them to be so connected.  Branch out!

My 6-digit date number is 4, the number of depth and stability.

My horoscopes: “There are some wonderful surprises in store for you, Sagittarius. They could come in the form of a new career opportunity or potential dates. With the current planetary aspects, you can avail yourself of the best ways to find personal and professional fulfillment. Don't hesitate to be original. That quality will trump everything else!

And: “You are good at justifying things in order to make yourself feel better about certain events and emotional difficulties. Just make sure that you are not doing yourself a disservice by doing so. It could be that you are trying to cover up the very emotions that could actually help you. Above all, you need to be honest with yourself, or else you may end up getting yourself in a bigger emotional pickle than you started out in.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Nine of Cups.  This card has been showing up a lot lately in my daily throws, and not just with the Shadowscapes Tarot.  I love the image on the Shadowscapes interpretation of this card.  This card is about the pleasure of the senses, about satisfaction, and about our wishes being right there, at our fingertips.  We just have to reach out for them.

Finally, I have some time to look at my next Wild Unknown card: The Fool.  This lovely interpretation of The Fool shows a duckling, all fluffy with no feathers, standing on a tree branch (what looks like a flowering cherry) in Spring at dawn, preparing to take a step off the branch, even though he does not have a single fledged feather.  There is such a sweet, innocent, foolish yet extremely potent energy about this image.  Can the duckling manage this?  All the laws of physics say no, but somehow, if I were to wager, I would place my money on the duckling.  He obviously believes he can step off the flowering branch into the dawn’s light and survive, and who am I to doubt that belief?  Needless to say, there is a warning here, too.  If we choose to discard the potential for injury that comes along with our actions in the name of optimism, we had better remember that we could be setting ourselves up for a huge fall.

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Sunday, May 19, 2013


Transparent Oracle Sunday!

48, Venus (Above). The direction of Above takes us up and out of the four traditional elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth, and reminds us that we are but a small part of the Cosmos.  Above also reminds us that while the Machinery of the Universe is huge, it does have an effect on each of us, and each of us is an important part of the workings of that Machinery. Venus represents love, romantic, platonic or spiritual, as well as sensuality and an appreciation of beauty.  Venus is also about attractions, because that is how love, sensuality and the experience of beauty actually happen, and that is where Venus gets its power.

26, Guide: Otter (West).  West is the direction of Water, and thus, of feelings and emotions, relationships of all kinds, cleansing and healing, the wisdom associated with natural endings, and the bubbling up of pure joy.  The first thing I think of when I see the Otter card is joyful playing.  Otters are known for their play, and play is a sign of intelligence and awareness.  Otters are at home both on Earth and in Water; they form strong family bonds, and work hard to protect their group of family or friends.   All while playing tag!

35, Landscape: Forest (North). North is the direction of Earth, and thus of the physical or physically formed or manifested world, and of nurturing, health, finances and security, and the wisdom associated with living simply, being well-grounded, and being in touch with our physical body.  Forest is about the results over the long term, results which happen because of fertility and nurturing and patience; Forest represents the manifestation of age and wisdom and patience, connections (and results) that are not openly apparent but rather, like roots under the ground, are all around us.  Different energies can work together; a Forest is proof of that.

I then created my mandala.  There was a surprising symmetry to the whole thing, even with the symbols for Venus, which fit nicely in the triquetra shape of Forest, and Otters on each of the three loops.  This symmetry is apparent within the meanings of the cards, too.  Emotions and love and attraction, immersing ourselves into situations that bring joy and the security of family, and all of those energies immersed into the container of the physical world and the manifestation of our long-term projects.  Joy can be had from all projects, whether those projects involve play or they involve the maintenance of our lives and of living.  In the end, if we can perceive even the most mundane task through the eyes of love and joy, we will bring ourselves closer to Deity and to the actions and effects of the Machinery of the Universe.  Lots of support here, and lots of security, as well as a bubbling up of joy, sprinkled with an Aha! Moment or two.  Okay, I can do that!

Today was YTT Intensive 3.  Awesome day!  This is the first Intensive where I have felt like things are connecting for me.  I am looking forward to the next one!

I am still pondering the potent meditation that came upon me last Wednesday morning.  I keep getting the same message: “Wait . . . be patient, clarity will come with time.”  It is strange when you receive a vision or a message that positively knocks your socks off or blows off the top of your head, without any kind of explanation besides “don’t worry, we are still with you,” and life goes on around you, unchanged by that earth-shattering moment.  Well, not totally unchanged.  Two people close to me each dreamed about me last week, and I can’t remember that ever happening.  One, my sister-in-law, emailed me and told me she dreamed that I was upset with her, and she apologized for whatever she did.  The other, my friend and neighbor, dreamed that I had a duffle bag with a billion dollars in it.  A billion.  Dollars.

This makes a lot of sense to me, even without knowing why that meditation happened.  These have basically been my thoughts since then; I am wondering what I did to make this astral event and the sense of isolation associated with it necessary, and even deep within the discomfort of trying to understand the vision, I am very much aware of how truly blessed I am.  I have support in both the physical and the astral realms, and I have all I need to blossom and prosper, including interesting challenges to aid in my learning and evolution.  I do understand that it is not supposed to only be fun, and without the mental fortitude necessary to maintain awareness of Deity and to continue to believe what I have come to know, through both real good times and real bad times, it is all just a game.  Roots need to go deep so that when there is drought, the water table is still reachable.

Wow, could that be what this is all about??  Could it be that simple???

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Saturday, May 18, 2013


Knight of Wands/Two of Cups reversed.  The Knight of Wands (cusp of Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, deep, obsessive, and Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering) usually represents a person of passion, courage, enthusiasm and boundless energy; most definitely not background-type efforts.  The Knight of Wands is a warrior who is confident enough and passionate enough to jump into the fray and protect what he thinks is important, and he is telling me that this style might work for me today.  The Two of Cups (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, family and home oriented, tenacious, moody) tells of about love and connections, usually having to do with feelings, relationships and commonalities.  My Two of Cups is reversed, and in a way it is validating the fiery Knight, encouraging me to not think about my connections to others but rather, to focus on boldly stepping forward and seeking excitement.  Um . . . are you sure?

My Thoth card is the Eight of Wands.  “Swiftness” is Uncle Al’s keyword for this card.  The Eight of Wands (Mercury, reason, intelligence, education, skill, communication, in Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering) is a card of action, of quick developments, and of pulling it all together so things can be completed.  Oh boy, more action!  Crowley equates the energy of this card to electricity, and that is a great metaphor.

My Legacy card is the Knight of Swords reversed, flavored by the Four of Coins.  The Knight of Swords (the cusp of Taurus, “I have,” sensual, stubborn, cautious, and Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, dual, intelligent) is outspoken, assured, alert, and logical, as well as rude, domineering, critical and sarcastic.  My Knight is reversed today, and this could be a red flag, especially when I consider the other cards I threw.  This Knight has his own unique version of perfection, and any lack of tolerance of the opinions of others today could cause some discomfort.  Yep, I might feel I’m right anyway.  That thought is validated by my Four of Coins, the card flavoring my reversed Knight of Swords.  The Four of Coins (the Sun, the inner core of a person or situation or the deepest self, in Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, authority, caution cunning) tells of very solid foundations and an awareness of the value of our possessions.  This card tells of a resistance to change, as well as a need for predictability.  Imposing this kind of need for having things my own way onto my day and mixing in the critical attitude of the reversed Knight could be not so good. Forewarned is forearmed!

My 6-digit date number is 9, the number that tells of the completeness of manifestation or effect.

My horoscopes: “Your psychic abilities and imagination are operating at a very high level, Sagittarius. You face other people with a profound, spiritual love. They will return it! You might want to write down your thoughts or draw pictures of whatever pops into your mind, even if you don't feel you have talent. It's more important to keep a record for you than set things down for posterity.

And: “As a natural athlete, you like to exercise, but today might be a good day to take it easy. You could be feeling a bit lethargic; too much action could lead to injury. Try a less demanding form of activity like yoga or Tai Chi. Your usual enjoyment of learning may also be on hold, as you can't seem to focus your mind. Relax with a video - perhaps a thriller or romantic comedy. It's OK to do this once in a while.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Six of Cups.  A beautiful image for a beautiful card.  This one is about simple pleasures and bright joys and innocent fun, and about good times with good friends. 

I am busy tonight, preparing for tomorrow’s YTT Intensive 3.  Soooo much information to learn!

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Friday, May 17, 2013


Strength/Nine of Swords reversed. Easy message to understand!  Hang in there and don’t despair.  The Strength card (Fire, hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive and energetic energy; Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic, egotistical; Teth, sieve or basket, digestion; and the Path between Geburah, the place where forms and structures are challenged or affirmed, and Chesed, the place where forms and structures are stabilized and nurtured) is about having the strength and the patience to endure and focus.  This is not physical strength (although physical strength is not a bad thing), but rather about having patience and compassion, along with the ability to focus.  The Nine of Swords (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, in Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, social, dual) in an upright position represents brooding and worrying, usually self-caused, and usually unproductive.  Crowley calls this worrying “cruelty of the mind,” and he’s right.  This kind of worry is a total waste of time and energy  and from the looks of things, I won’t fall into this funk.

My Thoth card is the Ace of Cups.  Always like to see this one!  The Ace of Cups (Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation, Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, deep, mysterious, obsessive, Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering) gives birth to deep emotions, and a connection to my Inner Voice and to those around me.  This card is filled with lovely possibilities connected to emotions of all kinds, and a deep connection to the Inner Voice. All kinds of “seeing” or “understanding” are available, as well as pleasant connections to others, and to my “Self.”

My Legacy card is the Two of Wands reversed, flavored by the Page of Wands.  Okay, then.  The Two of Wands (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, drive, in Aries, “I want,” action oriented, pioneering, assertive, enthusiastic) tells of power, influence and authority.  It is interesting that this card is reversed today, because all my other cards encourage me to open myself to power and to feelings.  Perhaps my Two of Wands is reversed because it is hinting that focusing on my own power is not as productive as sharing power with others would be.  Hmm . . . could be the answer.  My reversed Two of Wands is actually being flavored by another Wands card, the Page of Wands.  The Page of Wands (Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, tenacious, nurturing, moody; Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic noble egotistical; and Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) is a fun guy to be around, unless you have a migraine.  This Page is telling me that even in the disconnect of my own power and feelings being hinted at by the reversed Two of Wands are possibilities to be had.  The way to connect them is not to impose my own visions, but rather to fill my heart with the joy of life, push the envelope and enjoy the adrenaline rush.  Okay! 

My 6-digit date number is 8, the number that tells of a conscious and deliberate response to the beginning of degeneration of the number 7, in order to maintain for a bit longer the harmony and balance of the number 6.

My horoscopes: “Your judgment about people relies too much on general opinion, Sagittarius. As soon as you meet someone, you accept what others think about him or her without trying to find out more. This lack of curiosity could lead you to make a hasty decision about someone today. If you take the time to listen with your heart, you could be impressed by what you hear.

And: “Be conscious of how people are responding to your presence today. You may find that your jokes aren't being very well received. Don't dig the hole any deeper. The one you are sitting in may be deep enough. Relax and have someone else take a turn at the podium. Think before you open you mouth. Support the situation with positive words of encouragement instead of negative bits of criticism.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding Temperance! Understanding extremes allows us to tap into their energies. This one is about healing and about moderation, and about consciously causing balance to happen.  Read that again, because it is important!

I had a much-needed evening with the PBT last evening.  We all have been experiencing amazing things, and it really does help to talk about puzzling or exciting events when you are looking the listeners in the eyes.  It also helps to share a delicious meal courtesy of Bug, and a slice of The Cake!

I had a hugely potent meditation on Wednesday morning, and the end result is that an astral Place of Power is no longer available to me.  I have determined that this Place is still there, but I have been told that I no longer have access to it.  This is not a punishment of some kind, my Patroness specifically told me that, and She also told me not to fear and that “We are all still with you.”  Since every entity I’ve worked with on a regular basis was present at this meditation, that is reassuring.  And this morning, I began my day in the usual fashion by connecting with my Deities, and They responded in the usual and customary manner, and that is also reassuring.  I do not know if this is temporary or permanent, and I don’t know why.  Yet.  These things have a way of revealing themselves after a bit of percolation, so I am not panicking.  I get the feeling, though, that big changes are on the way.

Ya think??

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Thursday, May 16, 2013


Knight of Wands reversed/The Universe reversed.  Hmm . . . The Knight of Wands (cusp of Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, deep, obsessive, and Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering) in an upright usually represents a person of passion, courage, enthusiasm and boundless energy; most definitely not background-type efforts.  The Knight of Wands is a warrior, but today is not the day for me to be a hero.  No daring rescues or brave actions today!  I am better off looking before I leap; relax. The Universe/World, which corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and material, stable and practical energy that is slow to change), Saturn (discipline, responsibility, limitations and resistance), Thav (mark or sign), and the Path between Malkuth (the physical world of action and physical, outer reality) and Yesod (the place where patterns and images emerge that may manifest into the physical world) is a card of integration and involvement and understanding, a crystallization of the entire issue at hand.  My Universe card is reversed, but it is there.  If I can just keep that Knight under control, perhaps I will dispel the fog that is separating me from the synthesis and fulfillment that is hiding from me today

My Thoth card is the Princess of Swords.  The Princess/Page of Swords (Capricorn, “I build,” ambitious, competent, cautious, cunning, Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, the group, society, cause-oriented, and Pisces, “I believe,” feelings, duality, soul growth, spirituality) tells us to use our mind and intellect to analyze our situations as well as our emotions and feelings.  This card tells me to be a bit protective of myself, and perhaps defensive of thoughts and beliefs.  This would be a good day to make sure I understand why I am doing or saying or thinking what I am doing, saying or thinking.

My Legacy card is the Page of Cups, flavored by The Hanging Man.  Ooooh! The Page of Cups corresponds to Libra (“we are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation), Scorpio (“I desire,” intensity compulsion, mystery) and Sagittarius (“I seek,” philosophic, adventurous, blundering) is a card of soft and tender energies and of getting fulfillment through connections to others.  My connections to others are important today, and my Inner Voice just might have some important insight to offer. The Hanging Man corresponds with Water (cold/binds and wet/adapts, and emotional, sensitive and imaginative energy that tends to move deep, and attempts to take the same path as in the past), Neptune (inspiration, spirituality, magick, enchantment, dreams, altered states), and the Hebrew letter Mem (water, stability and balance, the reflective quality of thought) presents the kind of balance that comes to us through surrender, and through seeing things in a different way.  My Hanging Man is flavoring my Page of Cups, and the energy created by their combination is yummy.  Looks like aiming my perception inward would be beneficial, as long as I maintain serenity and calmness.  These two cards offer a deeper interpretation of the other three.

My 6-digit date number is 7, the number that tells of the pause that comes as growth slows and degeneration approaches, often involving a crossroad or choice of some kind.

My horoscopes: “You can be known for needing a lot of love, but you will never admit that to yourself, much less anyone else. Sometimes it seems as if you like feeling emotionally frustrated. Today is the perfect day to meditate about whether or not this is true of you. Do you talk to other people about your emotional needs?”

And: “"Wanderlust" is the keyword for today. You're probably bored with your daily routine and you look for ways to escape it. You might find yourself daydreaming about visiting exotic and distant places throughout the day, and you might actually make plans for your next vacation. You may be particularly attracted to a certain country and want to find out more about the culture. Consider including a close friend or lover for travel plans.”

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Eight of Cups.  The theme of the day!  This lovely card reminds us that it is okay to turn away from the hustle and bustle of life, and head toward the quiet and serene darkness of an “inner” corner.  Choosing to walk away from conflict, rather than allowing conflict to harm us, is valid, and it is empowering!

I had a lovely day yesterday, walking around the Meat Packing District of Manhattan with friends.  We had a lovely and leisurely lunch at The Spice Market, and then walked the beautiful High Line.  After some time exploring the Chelsea Market and popping into a few local boutiques, we had a late afternoon glass of wine at The Standard Hotel, and then headed back toward home.  We had a bit of a wait between trains in Hoboken, and so we visited The Teak Bar, and watched the fish in their huge tank for about an hour, then headed the rest of the way home.  Everything was perfect . . . blue skies, no-stress public transportation, and happy people all around us.

Tonight, I head to Wayne, for an evening around The Table with the PBT.  Tomorrow, I need to prepare for my next YTT Intensive.

Another Wild Unknown Tarot card: The Six of Cups.  This card shows a perfect young evergreen above ground with soft horizontal lines in the background, and the huge support network (larger in mass than the tree itself) of roots belowground colored in green, yellow, blue and red, with the entire image surrounded by evenly-spaced cups, two in either upper corner, two at ground level, and two in either lower corner.  An evergreen never fades or experiences Winter, and our emotions are also eternal.  We aim toward emotional enlightenment as we live our lives.  When we look back at where we’ve come, our memories can be without imperfection.  Who we are right now, the person we are, is supported by everything that has come before this moment, and most of that support (while connected to the visible effects of every element in our world) that has been in existence since before the tree first pushed its evergreen leaves above ground, is not visible to the naked eye; we have to get a shovel and dig in order to see it.  But whether perceived or not, there is a balance created by that support, just as there is a balance created by the memories of who we were and where we are going, and that balance brings harmony and serenity.

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Monday, May 13, 2013


Three of Wands/The Emperor. The Three of Wands (Sun, the inner core of a person or situation, the deepest self and personal power, in Aries, “I want,” action oriented, pioneering, assertive) is a card of planning for action that tells of the excitement of seeking out uncharted areas with an optimism that says that no matter what happens, it will be good.  I think I need to look to the future today, and maybe begin to make some plans, plans that will include excitement and enthusiasm. The Emperor corresponds with Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive, energetic change), Aries (“I want,” action oriented, assertive, competitive) and the Hebrew letter Heh (window, illumination), and represents confidence, authority, and the archetype of the Father.  LOL, he is telling me to have fun, but to make sure that I am home by dark, and not to stray too far from home.  Order and structure and a willing acceptance of responsibility can certainly coexist with enthusiasm and excitement, and rules (which are there to support and enable) can still be put into place without putting out the Fires.

My Thoth card is Art.  Art/Temperance corresponds with Sagittarius (“I seek,” philosophic, adventurous, blundering) Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive, energetic change), Samekh (the tent post), and the Path between Yesod (the place where patterns and images emerge that may manifest into the physical world of action and outer reality) and Tiphareth (the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify), and this card presents one version of the concept of balance:  balance achieved through knowledge and experience of extremes. In the best of circumstances, this is a card of realization, and of choosing actions based on accurate calculations.  Kind of a similar message to the one above!

My Legacy card is the Five of Wands reversed, flavored by The Hanging Man reversed.  Interesting! The Five of Wands, which corresponds with Saturn (discipline, responsibility, law and order) in Leo (“I am, passionate, dramatic, egotistical) in an upright position indicates a struggle caused by annoying cross-purposes. While these discomforts can have good results, today they will not have a huge effect.  Rather, things should move in a smooth and integrated manner. The Hanging Man corresponds with Water (cold/binds and wet/adapts, and emotional, sensitive and imaginative energy that tends to move deep, and attempts to take the same path as in the past), Neptune (inspiration, spirituality, magick, enchantment, dreams, altered states), and the Hebrew letter Mem (water, stability and balance, the reflective quality of thought); this card presents the kind of balance that comes to us through surrender, and through seeing things in a different way.  However, my Hanging Man, which is flavoring my reversed Five of Wands, is also reversed.  Perhaps the way to keep those Fiery energies from conflicting is to offer guidance, or to make use of plans already in place.  Hmmm . . . using plans in a structured manner . . . sounds familiar, eh?

My 6-digit date number is 4, the number of balance, stability and depth.

My horoscopes: “You've been hoping for a quiet day on the job, Sagittarius, but too many calls could come your way. You might have to juggle several at once. Don't try to deal with every problem. Exercise your triage abilities and take care of the most pressing first. Let the others go, if necessary. You aren't doing anyone any favors by getting too distracted. Even you can be less than thorough when overwhelmed.

And: “You are smart, strong, confidant and beautiful. Everyone has always known this about you, and you are just beginning to know it about yourself. Today you feel powerful and unstoppable. If the world really is your oyster, where exactly is the pearl? You may spend the better part of your life trying to find out. Ideally, you will have a significant someone with you on your search for happiness. If you have the right mate, then happiness will be wherever the two of you are together.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Four of Wands.  Perfect card for today!  The Spring flowers are in bloom, and the air is filled with exciting possibilities.  Yes, the harder tasks will soon be upon us but for the moment, we can stop and smell the first of the roses. 

Sadly, the raven has won the battle, and the robins have disappeared.  I don’t know how many eggs were lost, but I don’t think it was all four (robins usually lay four lovely blue eggs).  I’m sad, because I really enjoyed watching the family last year, but if it had to happen, I’m glad it is now, before the babies were born. 

Sad that this happened on Mother’s Day, but this is the way Nature works.  Survival of the fittest.  The nest was so well hidden that I am impressed with the raven; he must have watched the pair building the nest, and waited till the right moment.

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