Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 11/17/25:

It's been a busy week over here, and it's finally my weekend (monday and tuesday!) I have a tendency to give people multiple Tarot deck options when I am at events. The Wayfarer Tarot (created by Margaret Shipman and me) is my Go-To Tarot deck. Every reader has one of those. The Tarot deck that communicates so easily and clearly that it doesn't matter if you are tired and distracted- it's just clear. I shuffled The Wayfarer Tarot, and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. I never know who it is for until I post it. Read on- see if it's for you. 

The reading begins with the Page of Water. This is a messenger card, speaking from the heart. It often comes up when we need to hear something about our emotions or there is something to work through. I pulled another card to get a sense of the message, and got the VIII of Air. You are feeling trapped in your own thoughts. You need to make a change, but you feel like you can't change the position that you are in. You have outgrown the cage that you are in, and you have to get out of it. You may be looking in the wrong direction, and convincing yourself to stay in a situation that you should leave. 

The Star appears next showing that you are on the other side of a very difficult or challenging situation. Something fell apart in  your life, and you are on the other side now. You are starting to heal. The energy that has been stuck is starting to flow again. Where you were stuck, you are moving now. You are just beginning to feel better after a really hard ordeal. You can expect your creativity and inspiration to return soon. 

The X of Earth shows you in a place of prosperity and success in the future. A community sitting around a table celebrating the work that has been done and the success that has been gained. This is a card of wellness, happiness, and feeling complete- like you have done a very good job. You will feel like you have roots going into the ground, and that you can plan for the future. 

The key to this reading is Temperance. Stay tempered and calm. Know your truth, and don't get yanked around to extremes of one way or the other. The world around you may be crazy, but it is important to stay calm and tempered. The center of the situation and a mixing up of ways is always best. If you are struggling, try to bring down the challenge by degrees. Just a bit at a time until you find the perfect balance. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you have been holding yourself in a trap. It's not that you mean to do this, you just feel like you don't know which way to go. You are thinking and overthinking and wrapping yourself up in knots with your thoughts. You have been going through a really hard time. For so long, that you don't quite believe that things will improve. But you are on the other side of something that has caused you significant harm. When you leave the cage, you will begin to heal. Things that you thought were lost to your sadness and stress will return. You will feel creative again and the colors of the world will be bright and inspiring. When you leave the cage, you will find that you are not alone. There are a lot of people standing with you- there is a net to catch you. You will find prosperity and success and feel good again. It is important to stay calm and tempered. If you think to leave the cage and end up in a place of extremes where you feel like you have to stay; calm down and find a middle path. Your answers are not in the place of the extreme. You may be feeling like if you leave the cage, everything will fall apart. This is an extreme thought- it's going to go better than you think. You just have to take a step, start to heal- and trust that there will be a community that will pick you up on the other side and help you to find success, wellness and prosperity. You are telling yourself that you can't go, and that it won't be ok. You are not right. You will be fine- it's time to take a step. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a great week! 

Iris X Reading of the week/Week beginning on 11/10/25:

This week's reading was done on a deck that is new to me, but quite old. The Minchiate Al Cigno was created in Bologna, Italy in 1775. With 97 cards instead of the traditional 78, there is a lot to learn in this deck even for an old reader like me! I love the traditional imagery and it's good to be challenged. I shuffled the cards and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. I never know who it will be for until I post it. Read on and see if it's for you or someone that you know. 

The reading begins with destruction. The Tower falls and the ground shakes. If this is your reading, everything is falling apart. What you thought you knew turned out to not be true. The foundation that you were building was faulty and had to be destroyed. You feel stunned and like you don't know how to move forward from the place you are. What is sure is that what once was is no longer; and you are trying to find the clarity needed to pick up the pieces. 

The Chariot appears next, showing you on the move. While you are struggling with the changes that you are in the center of- you have to keep moving forward. Partly for necessity. It is just not possible to stop. And then, you are likely on the move to keep yourself busy. You have a lot that you want to work on and accomplish, and you feel like you can't stop. 

The next card that comes up is not a part of traditional Tarot, and is representative of the astrological sign Pisces. You are at the end of something big- Pisces is the final sign of the zodiac. You feel like two fish tied together, swimming in opposing directions. Nothing is clear. You don't know what to do next, and you are arguing with yourself. You are feeling emotionally overwhelmed and you don't have the space to manage it. You feel tossed about by the currents, and like you don't know where you are or where you are supposed to be. This said, Pisces are known for moving along well even while stating that they don't know what to do. You feel unsure of yourself and your future. 

The key to this reading is The Moon. Everything is in flux- this is a cycle and phase that you are in. You feel like every time you figure out what is going on, it all changes again. You are having a hard time finding the ground under your feet and knowing what to work with and how to move forward. You are not sure what is real and what is your imagination. You feel like your intuition is misfiring all over the place. You are anxious and unsure- but you are still on track to accomplish your goals and dreams. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, something huge has fallen apart in your life. It has shaken your foundation and understanding of the world. You feel like you don't know which end is up. But you can't stop moving. It may be because you have to or it may be because you don't want to be still. You are charging forward, doing your best to stay on track with your goals. There are big things that you want to accomplish, and you don't want to stop or be stagnant for any length of time. The ground is crumbling under your feet as you run on it. While you are moving forward, you don't quite know what you are doing. You are full of energy to move forward, but when you try to figure out the specifics, you feel like you are moving in circles. The most important thing to know is that things are not going to stay like this. This is a phase or stage that you are in. It's going to take some time for you to feel like you know what to expect. Your life was thrown up in the air, and it is going to feel like things are unpredictable for a while. You Will feel better- but for a while, every day is going to feel different. It is ok to not know what happens next or to take a break and not push forward. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 11/3/25:

When I was new to Tarot, I had one deck that I used. It was a Universal Waite Tarot deck, and I used it for many years. It was gifted to me by my adopted big sister. 10 years later, I was with a friend at a shop in downtown Brattleboro- and I saw the Visconti Sforza Tarot. This is one of the oldest decks that you can get in print; from the mid 1400's. The Minor arcana is not illustrated in a way that can be read. The imagery is old, and often hard to understand the meaning of. But I have always had a fascination for finding the roots of Magic and divination and so.. I had to have it. 

My friend and I both got the deck. It was not an easy Tarot deck to learn as my second ever deck. We both worked really hard at it, giving each other countless readings on the floor of a drop in center for youth. I am not sure if I have my friend's deck or mine at this point. They were both used so often and interchangeably. He died in 2008. I often hope that the last time we used these decks, his ended up in my posession. But I don't know. I have tried to find the deck he had. I have asked around, and even dug into the ground in places that I thought it may be. I have never found it. But, I have this deck- and it is quite close to my heart. 

Every Tarot deck has a story- first, by the creator. And then, everyone who shuffles the deck adds to the story. I love old traditional imagery, but I see Tarot as a living tradition that continues to grow and change as it weaves our stories in. I shuffled the Visconti Sforza, and asked for a message for someone who will see this post. And to my old friend- I do hope you are still kicking around somewhere in the universe. I will always remember your laugh- deep and contagious. For everyone else, read on- see if these old cards have a message for you or someone that you know. 

The reading begins with the IV of Pentacles. If this is your reading, you may be feeling stuck or blocked. You are not sure how to move forward. You have been building a foundation and future for yourself, but now you feel like you don't know what to do next. You feel like there is something in you that is being held back. You don't feel like you can do what you want to do. You have been practical and logical, building up all that you have slowly and through hard work. 

The Fool tells me that you are considering kicking the foundation that you built down. You are feeling the winds of change and pondering new beginnings. You don't have a plan or a way to go. But you have a free spirit and a desire to wander and figure it out as you go. It's important to maintain your freedom while making decisions that are wise. There is a difference between being a Fool and being foolish. 

The VI of Cups appears next, showing you making a change. You are crossing a bridge, and you are not sure where you are going. You know that you are meant to have a big transition. You are pondering your past, and what to take with you as you cross the bridge. You are feeling both nostalgic and like there are things that you are meant to leave behind as you go. You are growing and changing- and feeling a bit apprehensive about what is next.

The key to this reading is Temperance. First- breathe. It isn't wise to go to extremes of black and white. Temper it down and stay calm. Try to remain in balance; in the center. Don't get yanked to one side or the other. Keep one foot on the ground and one foot in the water. Be in this world and not of it all at once. If you are considering an extreme change, you may be able to find a middle ground. While it is important to change when the instinct is there, it makes sense to pause and think about what you are doing so you don't make an emotional decision. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you have been doing what is expected of you. You have been building up a solid foundation for the future. You feel a bit stifled and held back, but you are slowly and practically building the ground under yourself. But I am not so sure that this is making you happy. You are feeling the winds of change. The Fool is the absolute opposite of the IV of Pentacles. It is the card of the free spirit who moves forward with no plan at all. The ground under the Fool doesn't matter so much, because he doesn't stay in one place for long. You are considering running away and escaping. You are working to leave your past behind so that you can move towards a goal instead of away from something. You are bouncing back and forth with your nerves leading your life. You are going to extremes of practicality and freedom. You feel like you just want to escape. This is because you can tell that changes are coming. But it doesn't have to be as black and white as it may feel. Temperance as the key says to make decisions from a place of peace and balance. Don't go to extremes. Consider this- is there something in the center of the practical path and freedom and formlessness? Can you be The Fool while still building on things that you have been working on? Do you have to make an extreme decision, or can you temper it down a bit? You are choosing between running away and slowly building what you are going to do in the future. What's in the middle of that? Consider using your mind to help you make the most grounded and beneficial decision that you can make moving forward. Mix up the logic and freedom- and see where it takes you. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a great week! Stay peaceful and grounded. 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 10/27/25:

This week's reading was done on The Hush Tarot by Jeremy Hush. I love this deck. I like the dark colors and imagery. I love the relationship with birds and nature. This is a compelling and interesting Tarot deck- and I recommend it highly. As I do every week, I shuffled the cards and asked for a message for someone who will see this post. I never know who it is for until I post the reading. This one is for someone who may be feeling beat down and discouraged. Read on and see if it's for you or someone that you know. 

This week's reading begins with the II of Wands. This is a card of planning and strategizing .If this is your reading, you have something that you have been working on for a long time. It started as a spark of an idea, and now you are doing the practical things to make it all work out. You were ready to move forward, and excited for the future. 

But then, something changed. Death appears next showing a total change of your life and situation. Everything that used to be is no longer, and you feel like you don't know what to do about the things that you had been working on and planning. The circumstances have changed altogether, and you have to change along with them. This feels harsh in this reading- like a foot that was put down. There are times that 'no' is the answer, and this is the case in this circumstance. Everything came to a stop. 

Now, you feel like you don't know what to do next. With the X of Swords, you feel tied into challenges even as they shift and change. You are not sure how to best move forward with the changes that have happened. You are feeling exhausted and discouraged. But your challenges could very well be letting up- the big change has already happened. You are tired, but you have to get up and keep moving. 

The key to this reading is the VII of Pentacles. Sometimes all you can do is plant seeds for the future. This card employs the logic of planting and harvesting. You have to plant the seeds that you wish to harvest, and give them the energy and care that they need. In other words- don't give up. Things are changing, and you are in a position to be in control of how it all looks in the future. You have to focus in your present on goals that may take some time to come to fruition. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you were working on something- and you were very excited. And then, something changed all at once. It was jarring and stunning, and left you feeling like you don't know what to do next. What you had planned feels like it is no longer applicable and has to shift. But you have been feeling like your plans won't work or come to fruition. This is not the case at all, though you truly are feeling beat down by circumstances. You have to employ gardening/planting logic to your situation as the key. There are times of pruning when all seems lost. A beautiful plant is cut down to a stub and seems dead. Then, a season passes and the plant comes back stronger and more powerful. It is all about giving it the right nutrients and space that it needs to go through its cycle. Things are not always what they seem. As the world seemingly dies around you, you feel like all is lost with your goals due to the changes. But perhaps those changes will elevate what you had been working on. You are feeling stuck, but it is a stage of planting. It is time to give energy to your plans while the season passes. Just like the trees, the goals you have are going to return in full color and vibrancy. Be patient. Plant seeds. Watch and wait. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. May you be at peace in this season of Death. 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 10/20/25:

‘Tis the season to pull out a 'creepy' Tarot deck. If I am to be honest, I love the decks that people think of as too dark. I love old traditional images- skeletal grim reapers and angry devil cards. Though I do like to have a vast array of options of Tarot decks for people who are less comfortable with scary imagery. The deck that I used this week is Not one of those decks. The Murder of Crows Tarot by Corrado Roi is both stunning and startling. The imagery is dark and deep. I love this deck. But, I am a Soothsayer at heart, and I don't wish to scare anyone- I certainly don't need to play into the 'scary tarot reader' aesthetic. So, I don't use the Murder of Crows Tarot at events. If a person was unsuspecting, it would be quite startling. But as I flip through the cards, I think... I may start bringing this deck out at events. It truly is a beautiful, strange, compelling- and even upsetting deck of cards. I shuffled the Murder of Crows and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. Read on- see if the Crows have something to say to you. 

The reading begins with the 3 of Swords- a card of pain, disappointment, and heartbreak. The swords often hit the heart as 'truths'. There are times that once we know something, we can't unknow it. The truth hits and pierces the heart, and we are left with the Crow bearing down and the rain soaking us as we cry. Something didn't go as you expected, and there is nothing that you can do about it. You have been hurt in many ways. Despite the challenges that life has put you through, you still feel everything very strongly. There are times that this feels more like a curse than a blessing. You are in pain- and so you are alive. You are exhausted and sad. 

The Star appears next. You may not feel it, but you are on the other side of the pain that you have been in- you are healing. Healing always sounds like a beautiful process, but it is more often more messy and disorganized than this. Something has caused your heart significant damage, and you are healing. Today is better than yesterday. But it cannot be expected that you will feel better all at once. For now, let yourself rest a bit and seek inspiration through creative outlets. 

The Queen of Pentacles appears telling you that it is important for you to have a place where you feel safe and grounded. You need to feel connected with nature and something larger than yourself. You have to feel rooted to the earth and healthy. You need a sanctuary that reconnects you to yourself. You are the Queen of Pentacles, which means that while you might feel adrift, you are still moving forward with purpose and making good decisions. You may be on a bit of 'autopilot' as you heal. Make sure that you stop and breathe. 

The key to this reading is the VI of Swords. You need a break. If there is something that is causing you damage, the answer is to distance yourself from it as much as you possibly can. Find a place of safety even if you have to take all that you have and escape. You have been getting a flight instinct, and it's important to look at that. There are times that we are running away, and that can be hard on the spirit. It is best to move forward Towards something. You may feel like you are in the in-between right now, neither here nor there. You have to aim yourself towards a place of peace and safety, and make progress towards getting there every day. Even if only a bit. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you are heartbroken. The truth has hit your heart like swords and you are struggling to find a way out of the hard situation that you are in. Every part of you says- escape. It is important to note that you are already healing; already you are past the worst of how you will feel. The ice in you is thawing out, and you are able to feel everything with clarity. This includes the pain that you are in; but it also includes inspiration and creativity. You are on a path to healing and getting better, even if you feel right now like your heart will not recover. As you are struggling, you are also the Queen of Pentacles- you are still moving forward with purpose, making the right decisions. In fact, some people would have no idea that you are functioning with swords in your heart. You keep that under wraps and move forward with purpose even if you feel like you are lost. You are still standing and maintaining balance in the center of chaos. Make sure you get time to ground yourself and get fresh air. Find a place of peace and sanctuary near the woods. Even if you feel like you don't know what to do or where to go, it is probable that you have to leave the situation that you are in. The swords to the heart are too much, and you have to be in a place where you feel safe and secure. Don't be afraid to pack up and walk away. As you do this, you will be healing. It may not seem like it right now- but it truly will be ok. When the Star is in a reading, we know that you will be feeling blessed, creative, inspired and calm. And that you are on the other side of a very hard situation. Things should start looking up now- hang in there. And don't stay anywhere that causes you great pain and distress. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. A reminder that I will be at the Shadow and Soul Emporium reading cards and palms on Thursday night! Hope to see you there if you are local!  

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 10/13/25:

This week's reading was done on The Avian Tarot. If you are a person who loves birds AND Tarot, this deck was made for you. Brittany Lyn Batchelder put so much thought and research into the birds that are in the deck. There is a different bird for every card- a total of 78 birds. As a person who loves birds; I learn more every time I work with this wonderful deck. I shuffled the birds and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. Read on and see if it's for you- it's a positive one! 

The reading begins with the Ace of Cups/Chickadee. If this is your reading, you have an opportunity for love in your life right now. It could be in the form of a relationship (either new or moving up to a new level!) or an opportunity for you to get to know and understand yourself better. Aces are positive cards in Tarot, similar to playing cards. If you get an Ace in a playing card game, it means that you are winning. This is winning in the realm of the heart and emotions. Expect to feel good, balanced, and happy. As for the Chickadee, they tend to find a partner and depend on them. This ensures their safety and survival. You never know how much a new relationship may help you- pay attention to the people who cross your path. 

The Chariot/Alpine Swift is next. Speed is picking up in your life. An Alpine swift flies Fast- and has even been clocked at 77 miles an hour! All of the sudden, everything is moving fast. You have worked really hard on accomplishing your goals. You have put in a great deal of time, effort, and energy. Now, everything is finally moving forward. You have some momentum in your life, and the goals that you have been working on for a long time are finally within your reach. You have big things that you are meant to do, and now the road is clear and without obstacles. You are able to move forward with purpose.

Justice/Eagle comes up next. The opportunities in your life are very well deserved. You have been strong, solid, and patient. You have been accountable to yourself and your actions. You held yourself to a very high standard. You were open, honest, and clear. Now, your life is coming to a place of balance, and this is very well deserved- a matter of cause and effect. You may seem lucky right now, but this is only because of the work that you have put into your life. Things are going well, and you may even find yourself in a position to stand up and fight for someone else. As a representation for Justice- an Eagle is an Apex predator, killing smaller creatures to survive. This is not good or bad- just the balance of nature and cycles. When Justice comes up, what is happening is right- it is how it is supposed to be. 

The key to this reading is the Queen of Wands/Cockatiel. It is time to soak in all of the good things that are coming your way. Be the Queen of Fire- ready for any change. You are quite literally on fire, creating the life that you want. Lean into your power, passion and creativity. Enjoy the fire that you have worked for and created. Follow your spirit and instincts to get to where you are meant to be. Just like the Cockatiel, be colorful and proud- not afraid to stand out or show your talents. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading- congratulations. There is a lot of good coming into your life right now! It looks like you have opportunities of the heart- new people are coming into your life. You feel full in the realm of love, and there is more to come. The path ahead of you is unobstructed, and you are able to accomplish things that you have always wanted to do. You are moving forward with great momentum. And All of this is happening because you deserve it. You have worked hard and held yourself accountable. Your goals are big and it has taken a lot of work and focus to get to where you are now. Your opportunities of love and work are all very well deserved. So- soak it all in. Be the Queen of it all and shine. Don't be afraid to stand out and be noticed. Nothing was handed to you- you have worked very hard to get where you are now. Let it be and take in all of the fire and passion. You are getting exactly what you deserve, and you should be quite proud of your accomplishments. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a great week! 

Iris X Reading of the Week: Week beginning on 10/6/2025:

Happy October to the friends of Iris X Readings! I know a lot of people think of this as 'spooky' season, but... I just love Autumn. It is a sacred time for me; often quiet and reflective (in the midst of work!). I remember ghosts both alive and not. I remember old friends; some with me still. Others have long passed. Some, I just don't have in my life anymore. I am nostalgic in October, remembering all kinds of situations- both good and bad; that have made me into who I am. And so, for me- it truly is a season of change, death, and rebirth. I am all of the versions of me that I have ever been; just with a lot more wisdom and discernment now. This reading was done on the Santa Muerte Tarot- a favorite of mine, year round. This is an impactful one- all Major arcana. Read on- see if it's for you. 

The reading begins with The Tower. Something has fallen apart. It is a shock; things are upside down and spinning. You don't know which end is up, only that you are no longer trapped in the situation that has been holding you back. Things have been really hard for a long time and it will take some time to find solid ground under you again. Things have shifted, the Tower is collapsing- and now you get to see what is there when the dust settles. 

Justice appears next with the skeleton holding the scythe and the scales. There are forces larger than us and more important than any law. It is the force of equilibrium. When the scales get set off balance, they will always find a way to right themselves again. Sometimes, this indicates a loss to compensate for the imbalance. If this is your reading, there has been something quite unjust happening in your life. The Tower is falling and Justice is served. 

The High Priestess is next showing silence as the best way forward. This is a card of peace, wisdom, and staying still in the center of a storm. She is standing at a gate, offering clarity. On the other side of the gate, everything changes. You are in a very important time in your life right now. Things are going to shift and change and be quite different after this. Stay calm; speak to Spirits, read books and cards- find the wisdom and walk through the door. 

The key to this reading is The Wheel of Fortune. There are forces and patterns much larger than you and I. This is the card of the powers of Fate. The Wheel spins, and everything changes. It is not necessarily good or bad- that's not how the world works. It simply Is. There are times when we Think we are in control when we realize that there is something bigger that has been guiding the way the whole time. The wheel is spinning and things are shifting. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you have been going through an ordeal. A Tower has fallen, and you have not yet found the ground under your feet. You feel spun around and stunned. There were scales out of balance that have found their way back to a place of equilibrium. Something that was unfair and unjust has been revealed. You are watching people have to be accountable for their actions. All you have to do is Be. Stay calm and centered. Don't get pulled into the fray and avoid extremes. Maintain a practice of peace and silence. Draw lines and declare that your space is sacred and it shall not be crossed. All you have to do is Be at this point. There are forces larger than you at work, and you are along for the ride instead of being in charge of the situation. The Wheel is spinning and the patterns are pointing towards the breaking down of something Big that leads to Justice being served. Stay silent and introspective. Watch it all play out without being in the center of it. You are not in control- just go along with the winds and watch what happens. This is a reading of All Major arcana cards- something big is happening. You are a part of it- but you are not weaving the overall pattern. Something that is meant to be is playing out right now. 

If you need a reading, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a great week! 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 9/29/25:

This week's reading was done on a favorite of mine. The Santa Muerte Tarot. It is most definitely the season for this deck- but it's a favorite of mine year round. I shuffled the cards and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. I never know who it is for until it is posted and people respond! Read on and see if it's for you or someone that you know. This reading feels pretty pointed and blunt! 

The reading begins with the 5 of Swords. If this is your reading, there is a person in your life who is focused only on themselves. This person wants to win over other people, and usually doesn't care if friends are lost along the way. The people around them eventually see this and fly away. But it looks like you have not left yet although you have noticed this problem. At best, the person is very self centered. At worst, they are purposely harmful. They do not know how to see outside of themselves to notice you and your needs. 

The 7 of Wands shows up next. You feel overwhelmed and like you are having to walk on eggshells around this person. They are very reactive and constantly putting up new hurdles for you to jump through. You are doing your best and you are pushing back and fighting. You are still standing despite a lot of fire that has been thrown at you. You are not resting and are likely fearful of what will come next. 

The 9 of Swords is next showing you trapped in an anxious state. You try to push away the words of this person, but it all haunts your mind. You are struggling to find peace with so many thoughts making it hard to rest. Even when it is time to shut down and go to sleep, your mind will not stop talking. You feel haunted by your own thoughts; and the things that are said to you are keeping you up at night. 

The key to this reading is the 6 of Swords. If you have been getting a flight instinct, it is time to follow it. Sometimes, all you can do is to distance yourself from someone and keep yourself safe. You may feel like you are losing everything, but you gain space from the person who has been causing you harm. You have to find a way to peace. You will feel like you are in between for a long time- like you don't know what to do or where to be. This person has been an ordeal for you- and it may be a while before you can truly feel safe and well. The first step to wellness is escape. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you have been putting up with an incredibly difficult person for far too long. You have felt unable to get away from them. You feel unseen and unheard- it is all about them. They are constantly throwing fires at you that you have to put out. You feel overwhelmed and absolutely exhausted. You are afraid of what is to come. You are still standing, but you are feeling absolutely beat down. You have sustained a lot of anxiety at this point. The words of this person haunt your brain and you feel like you can't rest or find peace. Your mind is constantly running through the things that they have said and done, and you get no rest at all. What you have to do here is clear- you need to get away from this person to find peace in your life again. You will feel like you are lost or in the 'in between' for a long time. But it is worth it to get out of a very negative and trying situation. Then, you can heal and find the ground under you again. That is what matters most at this point. 

If you need a reading, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a good week, and if this is your reading.. hang in there. And escape. 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 9/22/25:

Wishing a Happy Autumn Equinox to the friends of Iris X. Liminal times and spaces are quite powerful and today, daytime and nighttime are equal. The balance is only momentary, as are all in between times, and we will see the weather and balance of light and dark change more every day. This is a time of harvest and gratitude for the work that has been done and the fruits of labor. May you and yours be blessed with abundance and wealth in all forms. I shuffled the Raven's Dream Tarot and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. Read on and see if it's for you or someone that you know. This reading is for someone who truly deserves to celebrate what they are harvesting in their life. 

The reading begins with the Five of Wands showing a time of struggle and challenge. If this is your reading, you  have been challenged by something that you are able to push through. You have pushed yourself past what you thought you could manage. The fight you have been in has been for a higher purpose- something really good will come from it if it has not yet. This is a card making it through challenge, debate, competition and finding the energy to stay upright in hard times. Your life has not been easy but you have not stopped fighting. 

The Six of Wands is the next card in the reading And the card sequentially to follow the Five of Wands in Tarot. This is a card of victory and success. It suggests taking a break to celebrate a win. The Six of Wands is a card of success following a challenge. It is a time to take a breath and pat yourself on the back a bit. You have made it through something hard and have come to the other end of it successfully. It may not be in your nature to put yourself in the center to congratulate yourself. Do it anyway- you have made it through something big that deserves recognition. 

The Magician is card 3 in the reading, showing you able to use your willpower to make things happen. You are in a place of power and control again. You are successful, powerful and able to manifest your willpower. The Magician is a card of action and movement, and taking the steps necessary to make things happen. It is the ability to think around corners and be cunning when it matters most. You have a lot of power right now, and it is important to direct it well. 

The key is the Three of Cups. This is a card of friendship and working together. The key to your situation right now is to not be alone. Gather with other people. Celebrate success. Come up with plans that you can make happen together. Be lighthearted but focused. You can get more done with some help from your friends. Having down time to celebrate and laugh is what gives you the power to keep moving forward. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you have recently pushed through a very difficult challenge. You may still even be in the middle of it. It was very hard but you made it to the other side and now you are victorious. Your struggle has become a 'win', and you are successful. You are coming into a position of power and control where you are able to use your wit and mind to make things happen in your life. You have a lot of possibilities moving forward, and The Magician sets you up to be successful. It may sound simple but- you could use a break. Gather with some friends and celebrate the success that you have had. You made it through something very hard, and although it may not be your instinct- pause for a moment and just be. Take a breath. Go on a trip with some friends. The challenge that you went through was very personal- even isolating at times. But now you are in a place to reach out to friends and family and lighten up your mood a bit. Have some fun- your friends will do your soul a world of good. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a great week! And remember- Seership (a 3 day workshop online!) starts on Wednesday! 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 9/15/25:

Anyone that knows me in the slightest knows that I have a love of Ravens. And so, when MJ Cullinane came out with The Raven's Dream Tarot- I had to have it. I worried that it would be a tall order for a deck to depict 78 different images of Ravens in Tarot language, but this deck is wonderful. Easily one of my favorites. The colors and the imagery are perfect,  and I never get sick of Raven images. I shuffled the Raven's Dream Tarot and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. I never know who it is for until I post it. Read on- see if it's for you. 

The reading begins with the Nine of Swords. If this is your reading, you are feeling very anxious about something. You manage fine all day, and then you can't sleep well at night. Your mind races and you can't seem to stop thinking. It is really hard to settle, and you feel like you have too much on your mind to rest. Your thoughts lead in circles and you feel lost. But no one knows that but you. During the day, you wear a mask that disguises this. 

The Wheel of Fortune appears next showing the fateful powers stepping into your life. Something is happening in the bigger picture that you may not be able to see quite yet. Sometimes it is hard to tell what's happening when you are too close to a situation. If we were to zoom out, there is some sense to what is happening right now. And if you have felt like you have been on the bottom of the Wheel, remember that a spinning wheel finds its way up again.

The IX of Pentacles shows you in a future place of peace and prosperity. Traditionally linked with falconry, this is a card of spending time to yourself working on a craft. You probably work best on your own and you find the most success that way. You are most peaceful and productive when you can putter around and get things done in your own time. This is a card of leisure and having all that you need in the material world. Given the first card, some leisure may do your soul some good. 

The key to this card is The Ace of Cups. It is a bit of a wild card in the reading showing an opportunity for you that may not be clear yet. The Cups suit is the suit of the heart, and the Ace is an opportunity for connection that opens up your way of experiencing the world. It can be through a relationship with a person, animal, or even yourself. What is sure is that you would be wise to keep your eyes open. The solution may be right in front of your face. 

Here's what I see. There are 2 nines in this reading, which both relate to The Hermit. This reading is for a person who is often alone. Sometimes, that is isolating and you overthink and can't rest. Other times, it is peaceful and even prosperous. You do the best working alone and enjoy spending time without any people around. But with these cards, the concern is- are you too isolated? Do you reach out for help if you need it? Or do you show a peaceful face to the world and then stay up all night worrying?The Wheel of fate is spinning and there is an opportunity that may come in the form of a relationship. Make sure that you are keeping your eyes open right now. It could be good for you to have something new in your life. You seem to think that you have to do everything alone- but it looks like there is something or someone to help if you remember to look up. Don't get too stuck in your own ways. Enjoy your quiet leisure time at home, but remember to get out when you start thinking yourself into a knot. Reach out and look up- there may be someone there for you and a connection that you didn't expect. The Wheel is spinning- hang in there. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. And if you haven't subscribed (for free!) to my website, please do! Irisxtarot.com. 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 9/8/25:

This week's reading was done on The Black Tarot by Victoria Iva. It is a deck that is meant to work with the 'shadow' side. I tend to work with it to light a way in the dark. While it is the Black Tarot, the stark white imagery is very striking. Besides, everything has a shadow and it cant be cast without light. I shuffled the cards and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. I don't know who the reading is for- read on and see if it's for you! 

The reading begins with the Ten of Swords showing imagery of a beaten down person. If this is your reading, you feel backstabbed, hurt and betrayed. You have been through a lot, and while the hard time is wrapping up- your energy is sapped. You have swords to remove from your back and a heart that could use some healing. This too is passing, but it doesn't make it any easier when you are still on the ground. The truth of a situation is very clear, and it hurts. 

The Six of Cups comes up next showing you crossing the bridge into the next stage of your life. There may be things that have been very important to you that you choose to leave behind as you move towards the future. Other things you will take with you as you go. You are growing up and evolving, and while there may be things you feel nostalgic about, it is time to let some things go. 

The Queen of Spheres shows you as strong, powerful and connected to the earth. You are working to put your feet on the ground and plan for the future. Time outside in nature will do your soul some good. The Queen of Spheres is often calmed by movement and work. Getting tasks down every day will keep you balanced. Create a nest for yourself in your home and take good care of yourself and those you love. 

The key in this reading is Justice. Something is out of balance when you see Justice, and it will be swiftly coming back around. The scales have been knocked out of balance, and will be righted again, as is nature. Something that was unfair will come around full circle. This is a card about truth and accountability. Justice stares out at the world with impassive eyes. There is a cost to every action. And Justice keeps the scales ultimately in balance, regardless of what people say, do, or do not do. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you have been beaten down. It is one thing after another, and you are left feeling betrayed and even stabbed in the back by those you trusted.You are swallowing a hard truth about something in your life. You have had a rough time of it, but are coming to the other side. It's time to decide what your future will look like. There are things that have been important to you that it is time to leave behind to make room for new things in the future. Be discerning and clear. Know what gives you energy and what strips it. In the meantime, you have had a challenging time, and it is wise to look towards some self care. Make your home comfortable. Eat well, drink plenty of water and stay around people who make you feel grounded. Draw good boundaries with people who seek to cause harm to you. Sometimes, you don't have to do anything at all- and the scales of Justice find their way to re-balancing. They always do. Be still and silent- and watch how things unfold. If you have been treated unfairly, expect things to come back around. If there are swords in your back, you will soon know who put them there. All you have to do is stay grounded, calm- and wait and see what happens next. You are moving onto better things. Don't be afraid to draw a line and leave something in your past. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a great week! 

I ris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 9/1/25:

I have a lot of Tarot card decks. More than you think I have. I bring a big selection to events to let people choose; and that's not even a small percentage of my decks. I am a collector. They all have different personalities and ways of communicating. I have my favorites for sure, and I use them for different reasons. Today's reading was done on my first Tarot deck- The Universal Waite, illustrated by Pamela Coleman Smith. Because sometimes- you just need to talk to an old friend. I shuffled the cards and asked for a reading for someone who sees this post. Read on and see if it's for you. 

The reading begins with the VII of Cups. If this is your reading, you may feel disoriented- like you don't know what is going to happen. There are a lot of possibilities and ways that things could go, but you are having a tough time focusing your mind and staying clear. Everything seems possible all at once, and you are just staring off and waiting to see what happens next. 

The Queen of Wands appears next. Here's what you have working for you. You are fiery and passionate; energized and clear. You have a lot of willpower, and when you want to make something to happen, you don't leave much room for there to be any other way. You don't back down from a challenge and you have the power and magic to manifest anything you want. Use your creativity and out of the box thinking. Once you can discern a path- you have what is needed to walk down it. 

Judgment comes next, telling you to trust your wisdom and experience to get you through this time of confusion. There are some things that may be becoming clear; and what seemed lost may come back to life. This is a Major mystery card of the Tarot deck. Stay calm and trust your intuition and judgment to move forward with clarity. 

The key to this reading is The World. This is a card of success- the completion of a cycle and beginning of a new one. This tells you to have some faith in the wisdom that you have right now. You are tracking towards success and balance. This is a card of victory, wellness and the result of patience and persistence. Keep going. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you are not yourself right now. It is really hard to see clearly and you feel like you don't know what is going to happen next or where to go. There are so many possibilities, that you feel lost and are struggling to stay grounded. But the fact is- you have more power than you give yourself credit for. You have an extra boost of energy and fire that will keep you moving through this time where you feel like you don't know what to do. And then suddenly- the problem you have will be solved. All will become clear and you will know what to do. Stay strong and powerful. Don't worry so much about feeling unclear and lost- that is going to let up soon and you will reach your goals with success. Stay positive and use your judgment and past wisdom. Trust in yourself and what you have learned- and move forward with clarity. In all of the things that you are pondering and considering- have you considered that you may very well be successful? It's worth thinking about.

 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. If this is your reading- hang in there. The haze of confusion will clear soon. 

Iris X Reading of the Week/week beginning on 8/25/25

This week's reading was done on The Black Tarot by Victoria Iva. It is a Tarot deck that I bring often to events, though not many people choose it. I like to have a variety of decks to choose from because you learn a lot about a person by the deck that they intuitively choose. It seems to not be an easy thing to pick up an all black deck. I suppose it looks a bit ominous. I find this deck to be stunning and even jarring at times. It seems to speak loudly and doesn't mince words. Maybe that's why people don't often choose it! I shuffled The Black Tarot and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. Read on and see if it's for you! 

The reading begins with the High Priestess, which is the only Major arcana card in the reading. This makes it an influential/character defining card. If this is your reading, you are highly intuitive and know how to pay attention to the influences that come your way. You pay attention to signs around you, and it seems that you are in a bit of an 'in between'. When the High Priestess appears, there is often a door to walk through. You are at a threshold in your life, and it is important to spend time in silence. 

You have good instincts, and lately, you have been getting a bit of a 'flight' instinct. The VI of Swords is a card of feeling like you have to get away from something. You may want to travel, escape or run away. Things around you may feel challenging right now, and you are wanting to do something different. It's an instinct more than an organized thought. The feeling of, 'I have to get out of here to a place of safety.' You are ready to run. 

The II of Pentacles appears next, showing you juggling a lot in your life right now. You are busy- there's a lot going on. You make it look easy because you are used to doing so much. But it can start to feel overwhelming and like you are torn in a lot of directions at once. It's not easy and you have to just keep moving to make everything happen. If you slow down, you think you will lose your focus. 

The key to this reading is the II of Swords. It may be time to pause and take a break. Right now,  it is important to keep yourself safe and protected. If you are wishing for a break, it may be a good time to do some meditation and balance your life out a bit so that everything is not so hard. You are struggling and not giving yourself a break. The key is to hit pause. Recover for a bit. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you tend to be pretty intuitive about what you need. But lately, you have been feeling so overwhelmed that you just want to escape. You feel like things have been challenging for a long time, and it makes you want to run away to anywhere other than where you are. Yet you may be your own worst enemy. The key is to know when to pause, and it seems like you have been juggling for so long that you don't know when to stop. If you follow your instincts, they may not be telling you to run away but to rest. You can't be on all of the time. Stay calm, peaceful and in balance. Say no when you need to so that you can stay sane and calm. Don't take on so much; and every now and then put down all of the things you are juggling to take some time to yourself. You need time to rest, recover, and figure out how you feel about your life. You can't do that well when you are moving all of the time. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. Have a great week! There are pending readings available if you have financial challenges. 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 8/18/25:

This week's reading was done on a deck that challenges me a bit. The Cary Yale Visconti Tarot is a 15th century Tarot deck and is one of the earliest decks that can be found in print. It is not a simple deck to get to know. There are no names or numbers on the cards, so I have to often put the cards back in order to remember which card is which! The Minor arcana is not illustrated in a way that is symbolic, and would not be for another few hundred years. It is often speaking in themes that I am unfamiliar with because I do not live in the 15th century. There are extra Pages and Knights for each suit! But, even with the challenges- I love old Tarot. There is something about the Visconti decks that really pulls in my curiosity and imagination. I shuffled the cards and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. Read on and see if it's for you! 

The reading begins with the Ace of Cups. The Ace represents an opportunity that you have to open up your heart and spirit. Very often, this is through a friend or community that opens you up to something new. It can be a particular person that is an 'ace' in your life, allowing you to be who you are without judgment. It can be a relationship that is about to grow, or something new about to begin. That relationship can even be with yourself! When we see an Ace, we don't know a lot yet- it's only the beginning. A wisp of energy to pay attention to and work with. An opportunity to keep an eye out for. If this is your reading- pay attention. 

Next is The Moon. A mystical card of spirituality and cycles. When you see the Moon, things are changing every day. You are not sure what to expect. It can be hard to count on anything, and it can feel like the very ground shifts beneath your feet. The Moon is a spiritual card which doesn't always make the mundane world easy to understand. Even if you are feeling like you are aimless and nothing makes sense- there is a pattern that can be discerned. Keep your feet on the earth and eyes on the sky. Once you understand it all, it is likely to shift and change anyway, so best to be comfortable in not knowing and following your intuition and dreams. 

The Magician appears next- the second major arcana card in a row. Unlike the Moon, the Magician is about knowing exactly what you want; and having the cunning and skills to make it happen. The Magician sees the future that he would like to manifest in his mind, and he makes it happen no matter what. This is a card of power and knowing how to use the resources that are handed to you well. The Magician has four Aces on the table in front of him. It appears that it is the Ace of Cups that is in play currently. 

The key to this reading is the VII of Cups. This is another card that can make it hard to find the ground under your feet. It is a card of daydreaming and clearly envisioning your future. It is about seeing everything clearly and in detail before making it happen. It can feel aimless, but it actually is an important step to manifesting the goals that you have.  We have been taught that our imagination is unimportant. But others will tell you that you can use your imagination to see things clearly so that you can make it happen. The key is to remember that this 'in between' time has power and opportunity as well. 

Here's what I see. If this is your reading, you may feel like you don't know which end is up. The world around you may feel unpredictable and hard to understand; even if there is a cycle and pattern to it all. You have been feeling anxious and like you don't know how to keep yourself in balance. But there is an opportunity for you right now- and it comes from the suit of the heart. There is something that is going to present itself that will help you through an emotionally charged and constantly shifting time. Perhaps it is a friend coming into your life. While you may feel aimless, you are actually in a 'daydreaming' state that will help you to manifest your goals. There are times when you are meant to envision everything clearly so that you know in detail how to move forward. Not all time is about action- sometimes, it is about dreaming things up. Once you do, you will be The Magician and take the opportunity that is presenting itself. Part of the Magic trick of the Magician is seeing things so clearly that there is no other way for things to proceed. Don't be afraid of things that seem unpredictable; go with the cycle and phase that presents itself. And as the Magician, there is an Ace on the table in front of you. It will change your world and open up your heart if you take the Cup and work with it. Open your heart, daydream, find peace in chaos and accept new opportunities into your life that will be good for your heart. Know when to act and when to dream. Both are important. 

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. If cost is a concern, there is a fund for pending readings to cover part or all of your reading. Have a great week! 

Iris X Reading of the Week/Week beginning on 8/11/25

Greetings to the friends of Iris X Readings! This week, I am working with The Avian Tarot by Brittany Lyn Batchelder again! When I first get a new deck, I tend to spend some time focusing on it and getting to know it. This one makes me want to research Birds! There are 78 birds to represent the 78 Tarot cards. The connections that she made are quite impressive! I shuffled the cards and asked for a reading for someone who will see this post. I never know who it will be for until I post it. Read on- see if it's for you! At the end of the post, there will be information about Pending Readings- readings that are paid for and available for people who need some guidance and support.

The reading begins with The Chariot/Alpine Swift. This is the card of movement forward, momentum and power. If this is your reading, you have some serious goals that you are in the process of trying to accomplish! You have all of the power that you need to do this. You have prepared quite well and have a good plan. You have something that you are meant to do and it is time to move forward with it.

The Devil/Blackbird appears next. There may be some things that are holding you back that are hard to get past. You feel like you have something that is draining your energy, time and power. You feel tied into something that is not good for you. You have chains to remove and people/situations that you should walk away from. You have been feeling unhappy and exhausted. You are not sure how to get out of the trap that you are in.

The Nine of Pentacles/Peacock shows you in a position of success and prosperity. With this card, you will have all that you need. You will be able to putter about and work in a way that is the most effective for you. You do your best work when you are on your own. You are able to maintain your focus and even finish your tasks faster than expected. This is a card of leisure; and when you see it, you know that there is a high potential for financial success.

The key to this reading is The Ten of Wands/Secretary Bird. This is a card of accomplishing your goals against all odds. It is about having a burden and finding a way to manage it well. The Secretary bird glares at you from this card and says- maybe you should move forward. Even if it is challenging, you will be successful. You will be able to pull everything together and make it all work. Have some faith in yourself.

Here's what I see. You have something that you are meant to do. You have major goals that you would like to accomplish, and you have been working on it all for a very long time. But you feel like you are held back by circumstances that are blocking your path forward. You have great energy going into this- and then the Devil drains your energy and power and you feel like you are at a loss trying to figure out how to make everything work. If you can keep your energy focused and productive, you will actually be quite successful. You may even make enough income to feel comfortable and be able to take some time off to enjoy the life that you have worked so hard to have. It is important to know that even with the things that are challenging you, you will be successful. Right now, it may feel like there is too much to do. Everything may be scattered and hard to figure out. But you Will pull it all together. You have put a lot of work into your goals, and you are heading in a good direction. Sometimes, we have to count on the work that we have already done to carry us. You are going to be able to accomplish your goals, even if you feel like it is not possible. Have a bit of faith in yourself and your own power and resilience. Things are moving forward. This reading shows the problem and the solution.

If you need a reading this week, send a message to irisxtarot@gmail.com. There are five pending (paid for) readings this week. If you are not able to afford a reading and need some help and guidance- please reach out to schedule a reading. Have a great week!