"The Ten of Swords depicts one of the most painful and sad images in the entire Tarot deck. A man lies face down with ten long swords embedded in his back. The sky above is pitch black and the general feeling is one of sadness, loss, and misfortune. However, despite these ominous images, there are positive aspects to this card. The sea before which the body lies is glassy and calm, and the sunrise is appearing in the distance beyond the mountains. The fire of the sun is burning the clouds of darkness away as it rises and the darkness will soon be dispelled."

Ah ... tis the season of renewal and healing of those pesky sword wounds.  Let's make the list:  red sword, blue sword, old sword, new sword, etc. etc. in a Seuss-y fashion.

In tarot readings, this card is similar to the death card, but not quite.  And that pretty much sums up life, doesn't it?  Similar to death, but not quite.  Many million "little deaths" perhaps, but always choosing life. 

 Today, we are receiving the last snowfall of the season, a special wish of mine, and one that came true today.  It's an absolutely lovely offering.  The warm blanket I was needing.

Tomorrow, I cap off my 42nd year and begin my 43rd.  As my grandmother always pointed out to us .... on your birthday, you say you are 42 (or whatever) but in reality it is your 42nd year you are completing/celebrating, and you are beginning the next year.  Remember, we all start at 0, (or 40 weeks gestation if you want to get technical).  So, here's to whatever wisdom is yet to be known 43 years after the fact. 

And Saturday, the first day of spring, a true time of renewal.  I welcome this in whatever manner it chooses to arrive.

I heard the sun will be coming out and I've promised myself not to scream and cower in a corner when this happens.

I promise to thrive.

I'll also be back sometime over the weekend with high-speed cable internet, FINALLY!!!!! available in my area and hopefully being hooked up tomorrow.  This will mean a great deal to me and my home office.  No more watching that little hourglass just sit there during endless downloads and uploads that ultimately "abort" and disconnect me from the antique dial-up system. 

Cable internet!  Bring it on!

See you all soon.  I miss reading and posting, but I'm on strike, writing off to the side, and working on a scholarship packet/other submission ventures until my internet service jumps into the year 2004.  Can't wait.

-Anne