Year Ahead 2022

As I do offer divination services, I do take paid orders for large Year Spreads like these. However, they're only available for the week leading up to the New Year's day, and cost $400 for a full and complete reading of this type.

Yearly spreads aren’t anything new in the Divination community. They’re pretty common, honestly. But over the years I’ve developed a specific spread that’s a little bit different than your average one- utilizing all three major decks types to produce one huge, layered reading. 

The purpose is triple natured: First (the Key section) seeks to act as a sort of Shadow-Guide of sorts, alerting me to my current state, and to what I will face internally throughout the year. Second (the Houses) acts as as a broad strokes or more vague future-telling of events, trials and tribulations, and the like to watch out for concerning specific areas or topics close to me. And finally, the third acts as both as literal future-telling of the broad themes (Seasons) and largest concerns or events for each month (Year) as the year progresses.

This year I used several more decks than I typically do- and many of them were new ones that I acquired this year. Which is significantly unusual compared to what I normally do. I also added 8 new cards, and modified the Houses again for the third year in a row, slowly tweaking the spread. This included adding in another section (Elements) that acts as a gateway, or bridge, between the Shadow elements of the interior ring, and the literal future telling of the outer ring.

These tweaks to the spread each year are based on the outcomes and accuracies of years prior. And they are made so that the spread continues to do- and tell me- exactly what I want it to. What's the point of doing a yearly spread otherwise? Especially one that you've kept doing every year for the last 8 years.

Key

⬩ Key Card (The Self, As Is): 03. Banyan Blessings

Security, The Hermit, Expansion, Stability; 

The suite of Earth is the Witch's battery, the generator that provides stability, security a grounding influence, and the capacity for growth at the deepest levels of our being. Avoiding Earth depletes our energy, as Earth is a cleansing force that revitalizes and purifies. Earth is also a reminder of time and history. It allows us to see the importance of heritage and ancestors, our sense of being human, of family, of community and support, so we then recognize the power in pause and reflection, nurture, growth, death and stillness, and the deep connection to the energy source below our feet.

A member of the Fig (Ficus) genus, the Banyan tree begins its life as an epiphyte. As it grows it produces aerial roots that drape down hauntingly across the branches of its host and dig deep back into the earth; another reminder of necessary grounding; from the ground up the Banyan takes on an otherworldly view, and it's easy to see the tree as a brilliant and beautiful brain with its branches reaching outwards like a cerebral circulation or neurons.

Wisdom: Remember that there is abundance in the world, and security right in your reach. It is time to surrender to the path of your next growth and commit with full grace and trust; sow your seeds and do not let vices get the better of you. Expand into a greater network of branches; be patient, be still, and be confident. There is no need to try too hard. 

⤈ Sunset (Leaving From): 23. Salamander

Ouroboros. Creative Work. Infinite Wisdom. Alchemy.

The suite of Fire is eternally tied to our magical ancestors. Yet for all its fury and fierceness, fire represents the first divine spark and its majestic power or resurgence- a gift granted to the first peoples. This gift was so strong it stands as a formidable element in both spiritual ad physical forms; it heals, purifies, and energizes. It is profoundly independent, defying human illusions of control. And it possesses a transformative energy; it must be treated with respect because the potential for danger always exists. It's an element never to be toyed with lightly.

Small lizard-like creatures with slim bodies and short tails, the Salamanders are another symbol of fire and creativity depicted in circular form as if attempting to reach their own tails- a reference to the ancient Ouroboros, the symbol of infinity: never ending, never dying. As water creatures born of fire they have the ability to be understood as creatures of balance who teach us to step into our power and show others what we are made of, to learn to adapt to changing environments and survive at all costs.

Wisdom: Energy is shifting course and you are being guided to prepare for change and metamorphosis. There is no turning back or hiding away now. The Spirits know you are ready; if the ire is beginning to flicker, the responsibility falls on you.

⤉ Sunrise (Moving Into): 21. Baraka

Power. Strength. Force. Expansion.

The suite of Fire is eternally tied to our magical ancestors. Yet for all its fury and fierceness, fire represents the first divine spark and its majestic power or resurgence- a gift granted to the first peoples. This gift was so strong it stands as a formidable element in both spiritual ad physical forms; it heals, purifies, and energizes. It is profoundly independent, defying human illusions of control. And it possesses a transformative energy; it must be treated with respect because the potential for danger always exists. It's an element never to be toyed with lightly. 

There is a power that radiates from all living beings in varying degrees of force and clarity. Different languages have different words to identify this power, but in Morocco (and other areas of the Islamic world) this power is called Baraka or some variation. This force is a holistic, benevolent, and positive power: It does not acknowledge the splits between Spirit and Matter, but transcends these divisions. It can be transmitted, is contagious, and can also be lost. You can recognize this power in another person.

Wisdom: You are signaled to remember that your source of energy is held in Nature. Put down your distractions an move back into the Wild, even for a while. For every food turn done for you, do one in return. And whenever you feel your life has been enriched, do what you can to enrich another. This is, ultimately, your magic and your responsibility.

⇞ Above (Divine Wisdom): Tower [Negative]

It's easy to forget that not everyone shares the privilege of your view. Express your observations and opinions carefully to help others understand your point of view.

⇟ Below (Ancestral Wisdom): Companion [Negative]

It's perfectly normal for companions to come and go throughout your life. There's no point in clinging to dissonant relationships because of tradition. It's ok to mourn the passing of an old companionship while looking forward to life without them.

✼ Lunar (Dark Themes Ahead): 11. Cornflower [Dusk]

The suite of Spring is the true beginning of our year. A time when the ground thaws and the first shoots of new growth begin to show. It's the ideal time to set a new path for yourself; cards in the Spring suite represent new beginnings, fresh starts, and the laying of plans. They are transitional, symbolizing change from the dark and dormant into a state of awakening and renewal.

The Cornflower is remarkable for its beautiful blue petals which create striking blue clusters of color. It reminds us that it is not a bad thing to be unique and stand out; what may seem out of place to some may be a source of great and unexpected beauty to others.

❊ Solar (Light Themes Ahead): 25. Daisy [Dawn]

During the suite of Summer, the whole world is full of potential. The sun is at its highest, the nights are at their shortest, and even in the darkest hours the air is balmy and clear. Cards in the Summer suite represent exploration, fullness, freedom, and self acceptance. They are cards of celebration and creation; now is the season to enjoy the journey of the path you set in Spring.

Spring isn't the only time for a flurry of creativity. Daisy, the "day's eye", is a vivacious little hard worker who makes sure her flowers are in season practically year round. A second wind of productivity, then, is on the horizon and it's not too late to make the most of it. Take a deep breath. It's time to make something beautiful.

⇥ Navigation (Key Guidance): Key [Positive]

The key is a representation of something of value you should protect from others. It's also a symbolic item and gesture from someone who trusts your judgment and fortitude.

Elements

Earth (What Grounds Me): 06. Hecate's Path

Cycle of Life. night Magic. Crossroads. Letting Go.

The suite of Earth is the Witch's battery, the generator that provides stability, security a grounding influence, and the capacity for growth at the deepest levels of our being. Avoiding Earth depletes our energy, as Earth is a cleansing force that revitalizes and purifies. Earth is also a reminder of time and history. It allows us to see the importance of heritage and ancestors, our sense of being human, of family, of community and support, so we then recognize the power in pause and reflection, nurture, growth, death and stillness, and the deep connection to the energy source below our feet.

Queen of Witches, matron of Midwives and Herbalists, Psychopomp, and a particularly ancient Spirit, Hecate's powers govern over Heaven, Earth, and the Sea. She reminds us of our capacity of being both good and evil, and teaches us the importance of change- aiding us in releasing the past and stepping into new lands and experiences. She stands at her place at the Crossroads as she guards the frontiers between the realms.

Wisdom: You are guided to delve deeper into your spiritual path and remember the soul-truths hidden inside you, and to aid recovery of those soul-truths hidden from others. But you are asked to let go of what is familiar, safe, and comfortable, in order to break the stagnant wheel and discover new opportunities that lie waiting ahead; what is dead is gone and a new path must begin its process in order to begin the cycle again. It is time to transform from the old self and walk your truth for yourself, and for your legacy.

Air (What Moves Me): 20. Snakeskin

Information. Secrets. Body Language. Senses.

The suite of Fire is eternally tied to our magical ancestors. Yet for all its fury and fierceness, fire represents the first divine spark and its majestic power or resurgence- a gift granted to the first peoples. This gift was so strong it stands as a formidable element in both spiritual ad physical forms; it heals, purifies, and energizes. It is profoundly independent, defying human illusions of control. And it possesses a transformative energy; it must be treated with respect because the potential for danger always exists. It's an element never to be toyed with lightly. 

The snake is an animal most associated with Earth's wisdom, as in its natural state the entire body is in constant connection with the Earth, and many ancient traditions believed that snakes could transmit the Earth's secrets and knowledge to those they chose- empowering them and encouraging proper function of both body and psychic aptitude. And because the snake periodically sheds its skin, its associated with rebirth and rejuvenation, making their power particularly multifaceted. Their ultimate loyalty, however, is to the Earth, not to Humans, and they rarely volunteer their knowledge.

Wisdom: You are wrapped in the conditions of society and the snake approaches for you to question which of these conditions no longer serve you. Approach new ventures with steady confidence and be ready to strike at the right opportunity; show your love and care wit courage, and the snake will reward with boldness and fortune; the language of love is not just in words, but in kindness shown in action

Fire (What Inspires Me): 11. Songbirds

Hex Breaker. Sound Healing. Final Goodbye. Release.

The suite of air, in its purest form, is ethereal, powerful, and majestic- but also subtle, terrifying, sudden, and invisible. It affects health, creativity, and the capacity for hope. When this element is mastered, you hold the ability to harness and understand the intelligent depths of ancient magical mysteries, and the art of manifesting. Air also pertains to the spirit realms, dreams, intuition, and soft, gentle healing; For the Witch of air, that power inside can carry magnitudes across centuries.

We all experience darkness in life from time to time, an for most of us with each meeting we slowly begin to see its face clearer. We see the ancient lines of laughter and pain written into its face, and we start to recognize that the darkness is really a friend- a songbird that arrives at the break of light, whose song breaks the hex of psychic pains frozen within the mind. Do you hear her calling? You've arrived at this time to finally unfurl the threads of darkness caught within you from the people, situations, and trauma of your past and present. From experience we know not all healing manifests from beauty. It can be messy, spiraling, and, often, a long and winding road. When you befriend the face of darkness, you'll truly begin walking the path and discover the road that leads you out.

Wisdom: When the songbird arrives on your doorstep you are called to pause and reflect within; to look deep inside and tap into your soul, and release all strands of heaviness that ache to be released. You do not owe yourself further pain. You are free to create a new path. Give your worries to the dawn, and let your winds carry your pains. It is time to step out- reconnect with friends, or introduce yourself to new ones; you have a new song to sing.

Water (What Relaxes Me): 26. Burning Man

Collective Power. Supreme Prayer. Celebration.

The suite of Fire is eternally tied to our magical ancestors. Yet for all its fury and fierceness, fire represents the first divine spark and its majestic power or resurgence- a gift granted to the first peoples. This gift was so strong it stands as a formidable element in both spiritual ad physical forms; it heals, purifies, and energizes. It is profoundly independent, defying human illusions of control. And it possesses a transformative energy; it must be treated with respect because the potential for danger always exists. It's an element never to be toyed with lightly. 

An effigy of massive proportions the wicker man represents the grandeur of the Gods above Man. In some traditions he represents the King of the Harvest. At other times he represents a way for offerings to be grouped together in collective power with the community; constructing the vessel is a grand devotion that takes an enormous amount of time, preparation, labor, and skill. It could never be created by one person alone. 

Wisdom: Can you feel the energy rising? The time now is for celebration, and you must not forgo the moment of experience with your community. Take three cups and celebrate your wins no matter how small or large they may be; this is a call for you to go grandly into your magic and expand its working with another. Two energies are better than one, after all.

Seasons

Winter (Rejuvenation): 01. Birch [Dawn]

The suite of Spring is the true beginning of our year. A time when the ground thaws and the first shoots of new growth begin to show. It's the ideal time to set a new path for yourself; cards in the Spring suite represent new beginnings, fresh starts, and the laying of plans. They are transitional, symbolizing change from the dark and dormant into a state of awakening and renewal.

You are facing a new beginning, but do not embark upon this future alone. You will have a stronger start if you rely on friends, family, or colleagues to support you through your first steps. Do not fear removing what is past its use.

Spring (Sowing): 36. Ragwort [Dawn]

In the suite of Autumn the year is nearing completion, and its time to reap the rewards. The cycle of the seasons has seen us mature into adulthood and although there's still work to be done we're entering a period of abundance and prosperity; this is a time for preservation and reconnection- to focus on our homes rather than our fields, and to share stories of our year's experiences with our communities.

You may feel that what you offer does not fulfil what others want from you- but you have your own unique skillset to provide that which others cannot. You may simply be growing in the wrong place, or it may be that the person who will value you above others has simply not appeared yet. Stay true to yourself and you will be feeling appreciated soon.

Summer (Celebration): 50. Mandrake [Dusk]

In the suite of Winter, although the ground is dead and bare, what shows on the surface isn't necessarily what's happening out of sight; what appears dormant above is setting roots beneath, and seeds are waiting eagerly for frosts to pass. After all, the purpose of a long hibernation is to gather strength for the beginning of a new year. Winter cards represent, then, being tested in order to grow, inner reflection, community, and releasing negativity; cards from this season suggest a period of planning or preparation for starting something new, and may be recommending that you step back and consider new direction.

Whether its being used for magical or medicinal purposes Mandrake has been valued for thousands of years by those who grow it. It takes three years to reach its full potency, however. Do not judge yourself by the speed at which others grow; you need more time to reach your full potential, and there's no shame in that.

Fall (Reaping): 26. Hops [Dusk]

During the suite of Summer, the whole world is full of potential. The sun is at its highest, the nights are at their shortest, and even in the darkest hours the air is balmy and clear. Cards in the Summer suite represent exploration, fullness, freedom, and self acceptance. They are cards of celebration and creation; now is the season to enjoy the journey of the path you set in Spring.

The Hop Vine speeds ahead through life, voraciously grabbing at each new hurdle it must conquer. But as it grows it laves behind clusters of flowers, and these take life much more casually; with the vine having done the hard work already, they now reap its benefits. Step back and find a spot in the sun to soak up all tat restful energy.

Houses

1st House (Self): High Priestess [Reversed]

Secrets. Disconnected from Intuition. Withdrawal. Silence.

The High Priestess Reversed calls on you to be still and direct your attention inward to listen to your voice and wisdom. You may be swayed by other people’s opinions or swept up in their drama when what you really need to do is focus on what is right for you. It is time to get quiet and withdraw yourself from the external world to observe what your inner guidance is sharing with you now; think of The High Priestess as the calm center inside of you that is untouched by your external world and trust that she is always there when you need her. Whenever you worry that things are just getting too crazy, find a quiet space and meditate so you can hear her voice. If you stop thinking or fretting about your issue and instead clear the way for your intuition to speak to you, the answer will follow.

2nd House (Finances): The Empress

Femininity. Beauty. Nature. Nurturing. Abundance.

The Empress signifies abundance. You are surrounded by life’s pleasures and luxuries and have everything you need to live a comfortable lifestyle. You are in a period of growth, in which all you have dreamed of is now coming to fruition. When The Empress appears in your Tarot readings, take a moment to reflect on the bounty that surrounds you and offer gratitude for all you have created so you can continue to build on this energy and create even more abundance in your life; the Empress calls on you to create beauty in your life. Connect with your senses through taste, touch, sound, smell and sight. Draw on these senses to experience pleasure and deep fulfilment. Treat yourself to a day spa, learn massage, enjoy a fine restaurant or spend more time with your partner.

3rd House (Mind): The Tower

Sudden Change. Upheaval. Chaos. Revelation. Awakening.

When The Tower card appears in a Tarot reading, expect the unexpected – massive change, upheaval, destruction and chaos: A lightning bolt of clarity and insight cuts through the lies and illusions you have been telling yourself, and now the truth comes to light. Your world may come crashing down before you, in ways you could never have imagined as you realize that you have been building your life on unstable foundations – false assumptions, mistruths, illusions, blatant lies, and so on. This can be very confusing and disorienting, especially when your core belief systems are challenged. The best way forward is to let this structure self-destruct so you can re-build and re-focus. There’s no escaping it anyways. 

And let’s be real, change on this deep level is hard. But you need to trust that while this change may be here to tear things up, create chaos, and destroy everything in its path? This is all for your Highest Good; that this destruction will allow new growth to emerge and your soul can evolve stronger, wiser, and more resilient; these moments are necessary for your spiritual growth and enlightenment, and truth and honesty will bring about a positive change- even if you experience pain and anxiety throughout the process.

4th House (Home): The Lovers [Reversed]

Self Love. Disharmony. Imbalance. Misalignment of Values.

Reversed, it can signal a time when you’re out of sync with those around you, particularly your loved ones. You may find your relationships are strained and communication is challenging. Does it seem as if you are just not on the same page and no longer share the same values? If so, come back to the reason you have this person in your life. The Lovers Reversed also speaks to self-love and respect. To what extent do you honor and accept who you are and the value you offer in this world? Honour yourself and do what is best for you both. 

5th House (Family): The Moon

Illusion. Fear. Anxiety. Subconscious. Intuition.

The Moon represents your fears and illusions and often comes out when you are projecting fear into your present and your future, based on your past experiences. To remedy this, connect with your subconscious mind and release any fears or anxieties holding you back. Hypnosis, therapy and shamanic healing can support this process. It can also indicate a time of uncertainty and illusion, when nothing is what it seems. Be careful of making fast decisions when The Moon appears because you may later realize you only had half the information you needed. You need to listen to and trust your intuition so you can see beyond what is in front of you. Feel into situations rather than thinking what they mean. Let go of your conscious mental blocks or negative self-talk and allow your intuition to guide you.

6th House (Health): Temperance [Reversed]

Imbalance. Excess. Self Healing. Realignment.

As they say, 'Everything in moderation'- and Temperance Reversed is your invitation (or sometimes your warning) to restore balance and moderation as soon as possible. It can also be a sign you sense that something is ‘off’ in your life, creating stress and tension. It may reflect a period of self-evaluation in which you can re-examine your life priorities. Internally, you may feel called in one direction, but your daily life may not match up to what is emerging. You may need to change your living arrangements, relationships, career, and daily habits so you can cultivate more balance and purpose in line with your new priorities. Don’t be surprised if you run into tension or even conflict as you align your inner and outer worlds; it’s a natural part of the process. Similarly, the Temperance Reversed can be a call for profound self-healing. By creating more balance and moderation in your life, you open the possibility for such healing to occur. Given the reversal of this card, you are doing it in a way that is personal and private to you, without the influence of others. You know you have what you need to heal yourself and create more ‘flow’ in your life.

7th House (Romance): Hierophant 

Spiritual Wisdom. Religious Beliefs. Conformity. Tradition. Institutions.

The Hierophant card represents an established set of spiritual values and beliefs and is often correlated with religion and other formal doctrines. The Hierophant‘s arrival suggests you are following convention and staying within the bounds of a ‘tried and tested’ model. You are not yet willing to go out on a limb or offer any new and innovative ideas. Instead, you adhere to the key principles and rules that you know will lead to a successful result. It may call you to honor family traditions or sacred rituals that sit neglected. You are being asked to commit to spiritual practice in its most wholesome form – no customization, no adaptation, no bending the rules. If you have been lacking ritual and tradition, create a regular one. 

8th House (Resources): The Sun [Reversed]

Inner Child. Feeling Down. Overly Optimistic.

The Sun Reversed is calling to your inner child to come out and play! As adults, we get so lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life that we forget how to have fun. When you see The Sun Reversed in your Tarot reading, see it as your permission slip to leave behind your work and responsibilities, even just for a moment, and play. 

The Sun Reversed can mean you are struggling to see the bright side of life. But the obstacles you see can be easily removed if you put your mind to it. It may just take a bit more effort than usual ... On the other hand, you may be too confident or overly optimistic and out of touch with what you can achieve. Ask others for feedback and a reality check.

9th House (Religion & Spirituality): Ace of Cups [Reversed]

Self Love. Intuition. Repressed Emotions.

The reversed Ace of Cups is a sign that you are in connection with your subconscious mind and attuned to your intuition. You are exploring this part of yourself privately right now, and discovering how you can bring more intuition and flow into your life. On the flipside, the Ace of Cups reversed may be a sign that you are repressing your emotions, not wanting to express yourself fully to the outside world. You have your reasons for keeping your feelings close and not wanting others to know what’s going on inside. You may feel embarrassed or afraid of what might happen if you were to express your emotions. You may worry that if you allow your feelings to flow, they might turn into an overwhelming flood that can’t be switched off. However, be careful that you do not create an internal blockage by repressing how you feel. If you are not ready to share your emotions – that's okay! You can find ways to release them privately, through journaling, creative projects, movement, or screaming your frustration and anger out in the car.

10th House (Career): Ace of Wands [Reversed]

Emerging Ideas. Lack of Direction. Distractions. Delays.

The Ace of Wands reversed suggests that you can sense an idea emerging but are uncertain what form it will take or how you will manifest it in the world; you may have energy and passion in spades, but you do not yet have a clear outlet to express them. Or may be waiting for something else to happen before you pursue this idea. It can also suggest that you are finding it difficult to define your purpose in life and what you want to create in general. This lack of direction may sap your energy levels and leave you unmotivated and uninspired. As a result, you are often asking yourself if this is what you want in life and whether there might be something better elsewhere. However, when you think about what other opportunities might appeal, you struggle to know what you want. To remedy this stagnation, you need first to focus on where your true passions lay; there is no point in working towards a goal if it does not motivate you. So, take time to contemplate what it is you aspire to and what you wish to achieve out of this situation. The reversed Ace of Wands may also be a sign that frustrating delays are impeding the progress of your projects and ideas, making you very impatient- especially if you are action-oriented and have only just started to gain momentum in your activities. The key message here is ‘Not now, but maybe later’; Timing is essential for success, so be patient and wait for the best opportunity to move ahead.

11th House (Friends): The Fool

Beginnings. Innocence. Spontaneity. Free Spirit.

The Fool is a card of new beginnings, opportunity and potential; you are at the outset of your journey, standing at the cliff‘s edge, and about to take your first step into the unknown. Even though you don’t know exactly where you are going, you are being called to commit yourself, and now is a time when you need to trust where the Universe is taking you. The Fool encourages you to have an open, curious mind and a sense of excitement as you do. To throw caution to the wind and be ready to embrace the unknown, leaving behind any fear, worry or anxiety about what may or may not happen. This is about new experiences, personal growth, development, and adventure. The time is now to take that leap of faith, even if you do not feel 100% ready or equipped for what is coming. It is your invitation to relax, play, and have fun; to treat life like one big experiment, and feel yourself in the flow of whatever comes your way, allowing yourself to connect to the energy that surrounds you and flows through you. 

12th House (Desires): Death

Endings. Change. Transformation. Transition.

The Death card symbolizes the end of a major phase or aspect of your life that you realize is no longer serving you, opening up the possibility of something far more valuable and essential. Likewise, Death teaches you to let go of outworn and outgrown ways of life and to move forward from them. In all ways you need to put the past behind you and part ways with it, ready to embrace new opportunities and possibilities. Remember: You must close one door to open another; see this as a time to cut out excess and let go of what is unnecessary. Purge the old belongings, memories and baggage that are getting in your way. Learn to let go of unhealthy attachments. Any change should be welcomed as a positive, cleansing, transformational force in your life because you need to transform yourself and clear away the old to bring in the new in order to pave the way to a fuller, more fulfilled life of deeper meaning and significance; the death and clearing away of limiting factors can open the door to a broader, more satisfying experience of life. And while it may be difficult to let go of the past, you will soon see its importance and the promise of renewal and transformation. But if you resist these necessary endings, you may experience pain, both emotionally and physically, but if you exercise your imagination and visualize a new possibility, you allow more constructive patterns to emerge. 

Year

January (Winter): King of Bones

Wealth. Business. Leadership. Security. Discipline. Abundance.

The King of Pentacles represents material wealth, financial abundance, and worldly success. This King is a faithful provider; he uses his ambition and confidence to create wealth for himself and others and generates his self-worth from what he has accumulated and can share with others. When the King of Pentacles appears in a Tarot reading, you are confident and successful at attracting and managing wealth. Not only do you identify opportunities for growth and success, but you also draw upon your self-discipline and control to manage your wealth and invest it wisely for the long-term. His arrival indicates that you can translate your vision into something tangible, practical, and often very lucrative, and knows that a methodical, planned and well-thought-out approach will lead you to success. You have experimented in the past with what works best and have landed on your own methods and practices you know will continue to work for you in the future. Continue down this path rather than trying new ways of doing things. You do not need to take any more risks; through diligence, responsibility and attention to detail, you have achieved great things and can finally say that you have completed your task or attained your goal. You can now enjoy all that you have accomplished and the successes you have created. You have created a rich life, not just financially but also spiritually, which will set you up well for the future.

February (Winter): X of Bones [Reversed]

Dark Side of Wealth. Financial Failure or Loss.

Reversed, you may question whether you want to live this way. Do you really want to be chasing the next $1,000 so you can own the latest Jimmy Choo shoes? Do you really want to be pushing for marriage or a family instead of just enjoying what you have right now? Are you staying in the same job for decades only for the security? When you see the reversed Ten of Pentacles in a Tarot reading, be ready to question your need for stability, security and commitment in your life. It may sound good on paper or might be what is expected of you – but is it what you want? The reversed Ten of Pentacles comes as a reminder that sometimes, wealth can be a trap. When you surround yourself with expensive things and live a luxurious lifestyle, you may want more and more and more, never feeling satisfied with what you have. You may even find you burn through your financial reserves as you desperately try to support this higher standard of living and are unwilling to ‘downgrade’ even if your cashflow diminishes. The Ten of Pentacles reversed may also show that you are experiencing challenges or setbacks with financial or job security and family stability. Your investments may have lost significant value, or your job may be at risk. It is time to re-evaluate your position and choose a course of action that will help you regain your sense of security and self-worth.

March (Spring): II of Plumes [Reversed]

Indecision. Confusion. Information Overload. Stalemate.

The reversed Two of Swords may suggest you are feeling stuck in the middle of two competing sides. You may be trying to play the peacemaker role, but in doing so, you are just confusing yourself and creating more tension. The Two of Swords reversed could also suggest that you are facing a difficult decision and cannot decide which direction to take. It feels impossible to make the ‘right’ decision as you believe either option will lead to negative consequences. As a result, you are finding yourself feeling stuck, which is just making the situation worse. 

You may lack the information you need to make a sound decision- or, you might be experiencing information overload, overwhelmed by a deluge of information. Sift through the advice available to select only the most relevant and helpful. Remove the blinders and look at the situation from a different angle. Identify where you can come to a compromise if necessary. Ask yourself if you even have a role to play here at all. Listen to your intuition, even if you may need to cut off from the external world temporarily so you can hear your inner voice and allow your wisdom to come through; trust what you know to be true and right for you, and make your decisions based on your own internal compass.

April (Spring): II of Bones

Multiple Priorities. Time Management. Prioritization. Adaptability.

When the Two of Pentacles appears it’s safe to say you are juggling your priorities, roles and responsibilities. In the upright position, this card notes you are doing an excellent job of balancing these different priorities, and you can take on whatever life throws at you... But this Two reminds you that the line between coping with these demands and losing control is thin; sometimes taking a break is the most productive thing you can do. Similarly, the Two of Pentacles can appear when you are getting caught up in the day-to-day demands and losing sight of the bigger picture; this card calls your awareness to the concept of balance and those parts of your life where you have it (and those where you don’t). And it reminds you that while you can strive for equilibrium, nothing ever stays in perfect harmony forever. You need to manage your time, energy and resources carefully so you do not lose your balance, but be ready to swap around activities or accommodate last-minute requests. And know that if you are succeeding in one area of your life, it’s likely you’re struggling in another – that’s all just a part of the balancing act!

May (Spring): VII of Blooms

Opportunities. Choices. Wishful Thinking. Illusion.

The Seven of Cups is a card of new opportunities, choices, and at times, illusion. When it appears you have many options and opportunities from which you can choose, but be careful! You're prone to illusion and unrealistic ideals. An opportunity with promises of more money, more fame, or more power may sound appealing, but as you look deeper into what is on offer, you may realize it’s not everything it’s cracked up to be; your ego may pull you in a specific direction, but it’s important you check in with your Higher Self first to evaluate your options and dig below the surface to discover what’s involved with each choice. Often, the Seven of Cups can be a sign of wishful thinking and projecting into the future about what you would like to create, rather than taking action here in the present to make it happen. You may also find that your ideas are not grounded in reality. Or it may be a sign of ‘shiny object syndrome’, where you keep finding the ‘next big thing’ but fail to see any of those new opportunities through to the end. Again, now is a time to focus on the one thing that will move you closer to your goal; resist the temptation to get side-tracked with other ideas as they arise. If need be, note your ideas as they come up, but stay focused on the one thing you’re doing. This card is inviting you to move out of the ideas and options phase and choose. Each will have its pros and cons – it’s up to you to make sure that the option you select is in alignment with your purpose and your Highest Good – even if you feel somewhat paralyzed by the options available to you.

June (Summer): Death

Endings. Change. Transformation. Transition.

The Death card symbolizes the end of a major phase or aspect of your life that you realize is no longer serving you, opening up the possibility of something far more valuable and essential. Likewise, Death teaches you to let go of outworn and outgrown ways of life and to move forward from them. In all ways you need to put the past behind you and part ways with it, ready to embrace new opportunities and possibilities. Remember: You must close one door to open another; see this as a time to cut out excess and let go of what is unnecessary. Purge the old belongings, memories and baggage that are getting in your way. Learn to let go of unhealthy attachments. Any change should be welcomed as a positive, cleansing, transformational force in your life because you need to transform yourself and clear away the old to bring in the new in order to pave the way to a fuller, more fulfilled life of deeper meaning and significance; the death and clearing away of limiting factors can open the door to a broader, more satisfying experience of life. And while it may be difficult to let go of the past, you will soon see its importance and the promise of renewal and transformation. But if you resist these necessary endings, you may experience pain, both emotionally and physically, but if you exercise your imagination and visualize a new possibility, you allow more constructive patterns to emerge. 

July (Summer): Wheel of Fortune

Good Luck. Life Cycles. Destiny. Turning Points.

The Wheel of Fortune can show a critical turning point in your life. So if you’re going through a difficult time rest assured that your life is about to turn in more positive directions from here if you're willing to grow and expand; opportunities you could never imagine are suddenly available to you, and you have the chance to make a significant change in your life. good luck and good fortune will make their return in time, and the more you tune in to your intuition and allow the Universe to guide you, the better the outcomes will be. Be open to the help of others, too, as guidance from both the physical and spiritual realms is supporting you along your journey. They want you to do well, so relish their support right now. Call on them any time you need it. 

Similarly, however, The Wheel of Fortune reminds us that the wheel is always turning and life is in a state of constant change. So if things are going well, know this, too, will change and life may return to ‘normal’ soon. It is likewise a harbinger of the reminder that ‘what goes around comes around’: Be a kind and loving person to others, and they’ll be kind and loving to you.

August (Summer): Queen of Stones

Courage. Confidence. Independence. Social Butterfly. Determination.

The Queen of Wands reminds you that you are upbeat, courageous, and determined; ever the social butterfly, the Queen of Wands suggests that you are filled with energy and inspiration- a natural born, intelligent leader who actively inspires and instills confidence in others, giving them power and self assurance. You also create a powerful first impression and can quickly win others over with your sweet, warm and charming nature. You're optimistic and full of ideas, know what you want and how to get it, and know how to best channel your own strengths and weaknesses, and are masterful at engaging with others to achieve your goals.

The Queen of Wands then asks you to be bold in your undertakings; to stay fiercely determined and focused on your goals, unafraid to own your real power and put it out into the world while being friendly and optimistic with those around you; you have so much to offer. So shine believe in yourself and what you stand for, and don't be afraid to speak up and be heard; now is the perfect time to put yourself out there and meet new people. Finally, the Queen of Wands encourages you to get to know your shadow self. And while you may want to protect this part of yourself, she encourages you to express this side more openly with others instead. It will enable you to connect with others on a deeper level.

September (Autumn): Knight of Plumes

Ambitious. Action Oriented. Driven to Succeed. Fast Thinking.

When the Knight of Swords appears in a Tarot reading, it is a sign that you are highly driven, ambitious and action-oriented. It also suggests that you are quick to take action and tend not to plan ahead, instead preferring to dive right in; you thrive on high levels of energy that propel you forward and inspire you to take action to manifest your goals. You are so highly motivated to succeed that you will stop at nothing to pursue your dreams. The challenges, difficulties and obstacles on the path ahead don't faze you because you know where you want to go. Move forward with sheer strength and determination to make things happen.

The Knight of Swords reminds you to be assertive in getting what you want. See yourself as the creator of your future and be ready to take the necessary steps to make it happen. But he reminds you that the downside of fast-thinking, and quick-acting is that sometimes you act too quickly and haven’t thoroughly thought things through. Sometimes a little planning and preparation can go a long way. 

October (Autumn): Page of Bones [Reversed]

Lack of Progress. Procrastination. Learn from Failure.

The Page of Pentacles reversed says you are exploring a new project or business idea, but you are not ready to move forward with it just yet. Or, you may worry that you do not have the skills or resources for it to succeed. It can also suggest that you are trying to get a specific project or idea off the ground, but each time you try, it seems to amount to nothing or takes you even further away from where you want to be. Maybe you have not planned sufficiently or are trying too hard. You may also be too busy daydreaming about new goals, without having taken any action on your original ones. 

The Page of Pentacles reversed invites you to give yourself some space and step away from the project for a short period. Review your goals and think again about why you were initially motivated to achieve them, and see if this reenergizes and re-focuses you. If the opportunity continues to present itself to you, and you want to move forward, trust that you have what you need now and the rest will develop as you progress. If not, then learn from your mistakes; even if a situation has not worked out the way you expected it would, you can discover new aspects of yourself that might help in the future. Be open-minded and curious, and trust that today’s failures will lead to tomorrow’s successes.

November (Autumn): III of Blooms

Celebration. Friendship. Creativity. Collaboration.

The Three of Cups is a card of celebration, friendship, sisterhood, and creative collaborations; it often indicates a very sociable period. See it as your opportunity to let your hair down and forget about your day-to-day commitments and obligations for a while. Instead, spend quality time with friends and family and enjoy yourself! This card also invites you to collaborate with others on a creative project and inspire one another to reach new heights. Collectively, you are working towards a common goal for the greater good of others, and by reaching out to others and banding together, you can achieve a great deal by sharing your positive energy and passion with the wider community; this is a great way to connect with others and to access your creative abilities. Your friends and family are here to support you and lift you up to even higher levels of success. Celebrate with them and enjoy their camaraderie.

December (Winter): VII of Bones [Reversed]

Lack of Long-Term Vision. Limited Success or Reward.

The Seven of Pentacles reversed suggests your efforts may be scattered at this time and you are questioning whether you are investing in the right areas. Similarly, the reversed Seven of Pentacles suggests that even though you may continue to invest a lot of energy into a specific situation, you may not reap the rewards you are looking for. Some people are inclined to keep ‘toughing it out’, just because they spent time, energy or money and don’t want to admit defeat. However, as a critical strength, the reversed Seven of Pentacles can show that you know when to stop investing in something when you see little return. You are adept at identifying when a situation is no longer delivering you any value and know when to pack it in and try something else, and this card calls on you to prioritize your activities carefully. You need to do a cost-benefit analysis of the major tasks involved to bring your project to fruition, and to use a prioritization system to ensure you do not waste precious resources on areas that will not deliver results.

In previous years I exclusively used SkullGarden decks for my yearly  readings because I loved Andy Swartz’s art to pieces, and how his decks work together so well in multi-deck readings. It made (and still makes) them perfect for my beginning of the year spreads. This year, however, I underwent significant spiritual and other changes in my life and in the process of that, several new decks came into my possession for the first time in years. It felt right this year to include them in this reading, and so my usual deck lineup for the reading has changed considerably. 

Decks this year included the Pure Magic Oracle by Andrés Engracia and Judika Isles, and the Seed and Sickle Oracle by Fez Inkright, alongside the traditional use of the Wooden Tarot Full Deck, and Wooden Tarot LTE Major Arcana + Aces. Additionally I used the services of the Pathfinder Oracle, which I added to the readings last year (the writeup for which was sadly lost, tough thankfully I still retain the photos to eventually piece it back together from).