January
The first part of January may find you changing the light bulbs rather than changing the world, but I am a big believer in practical magic.  Set some achievable goals this New Year, and when you reach them, set some more! If you find yourself stuck inside, re-arrange the furniture and dust off your altar and re-new it with fresh magic.  The energy will be about putting one foot in front of the other, regardless of the cosmic terrain. Consistency isn't sexy, but it is highly effective, and a well earned reward is twice as sweet.
The energy will be shifting big time with the February New Moon, and having a solid foundation to work from will give you a big advantage. So use this quieter time to plan and do somethings you have to do, because when this train starts moving next month, you might not be able to catch your balance as easily as now.
Everybody's love language is acts of service this month , so give and receive easily.
Page Pentacles x Queen Pentacles

February
Wow! Some of us are going to have to do some spiritual weightlifting this month. There's going to be a dance, or shall we say a throw down, between what you can control and what you can't! Don't worry, things will work out in the end. Nothing ever happened without actually doing it, so have faith and move forward even if there isn't a guaranteed outcome. This is where perspective is really important. A hopeful attitude will allow you to put your art in the world or build your business or make the first move with someone. What happens after that is not in your control. This interplay between self and world will be very apparent this month.
Here are some key phrases for February:

• Control what you can and let go of what you can't. 
• Build it and they will come.
  
• Take a risk for happiness!
  
• Go for it!
  
• Most things of value in life required some risk to achieve them. 
  

This intersection between what we can control and what we can't is real fertile ground for growth.  And Just remember, when something doesn't work out as planned, there is often a bigger hand at work.

Chariot x Hanged Man

March
 This entire month is about moving from a setback to celebrating a win! If it didn't work out last month, continue to move forward anyway.
And as in February, perspective will be critical.  If something falls through or doesn't happen, don't stay in the 'why me' for too long. Keep moving. What looked like a loss will, in hindsight, end up being a win. The first 3 months of this year all have this theme. The future is where the fun is! And by the end of the month you'll definitely have something to celebrate. Just remember, nobody wants to read the story about the person born into privilege who had it easy. We all love a transformational journey and 'overcoming' is where the growth is. By April you may find yourself partying with  some like minded , kind hearted folks who are on the same journey as you. Go out and find them! Let them know you exist.
3 Swords x 4 Wands

Here is a budget sheet I have been working on for months! Click the link under the form to download it.
I have found it really useful to organize my thoughts around where my money is going. The section labeled 'sinking funds' is for expenses you know are coming, like the holidays. You estimate how much you need and divide it by 12 and that becomes a monthly short term savings...a sinking fund. I hope you find this useful. xxoo Xtina

If you are interested in your Lunar New Year forecast by animal, read on!
I’ve researched several sources and compiled the highlights! Starting on Feb. 17, 2026 it is the Year of the Fire Horse.

A Fire Horse Year is ,well, fiery. The last Fire Horse year was in 1966. Then, as now, society was in dynamic flux!
Individually, inspired action, ambition and passion mixed with  a need for expression and a compulsion to move can lead to a year that is very intense! We will all need to buckle our collective seat belts and get ready for a wild ride. What that ride is will depend on your animal sign!


The Rat
Those born into the 1st sign will be friend magnets this year! But hold steady, don’t purposely rock the boat. This is not the year for taking a gamble on…anything. The advice: “Don’t risk what you can’t afford to lose” has never been truer than for the Rat in 2026.  Don’t take love or money for granted this year! Hold both close and give them the respect they deserve and you will be alright. Luckily Rat folks should have a strong constitution in 2026.

The Ox
“Everything is workable” is the Ox mantra for 2026. As you move through the year, let the good times roll…but don’t let them roll over you! Lifestyle needs to be refined. Extravagance is out, thrift is in. You will have enough…of money, of love and of health. ‘Enough’ may not sound sexy but it is solid and gives you a platform to work from. If you run into obstacles or unexpected expenses…be prepared. Budgeting well will be a super power this year and if you choose to not invest some time and energy into your finances, well, don’t say I didn’t warn you! Love will be around but it also needs to be expressed to live! Communication is magic.

The Tiger
Roaaaar! 
That’s what Tiger people will feel like doing because so much good stuff will be rolling  into their life this year!  It is  one of the best years out of the last 12. The year of the Fire Horse will bring lucky breaks and unexpected opportunities…so get ready! Have your bags packed and ready to go and keep your eyes open for that next investment. Money should flow in, but don’t be frivolous, the tide will go out again later.  If you are single, get out and mingle. Tigers have good love luck this year. 


The Rabbit
2026 should be much better than 2025! The road is open for you this year and there will be many helpers along the way, but people need to know you exist or are interested.  You can’t just sit there and wait for connection. You will be blessed if you are brave and initiate contact…in love, friendship or career! Have fun but don’t party too hard or your body will let you know. You will have enough money this year, but it will be well earned. Give every dollar a job and you will be ok.

The Dragon
2026 should be a progressive year for the Dragon…with a dash of spiciness. First things first, do not engage in drama this year! Dragons need to prioritize self care in 2026 and staying out of other peoples’ business. Having strong personal boundaries will help keep stress levels down. You may be called upon to take a leadership position this year, either in business or relationship (or both) and to do that well, you need to maintain some distance from the thing. Your sensitivity and diplomacy are wonderful and healing to others this year, but you also need these for yourself! Love will come in, but you may have to be the emotional leader.

The Snake
Snakes will feel increasing energy throughout 2026. Because Bodies in Motion Stay in Motion, snakes will shake free from inertia and start to move this year. You will easily shed old and outdated habits or patterns (and maybe even people, places and things!) The energy of the year of the Fire Horse will facilitate personal breakthroughs and help Snakes burn through blockages. You’ll have tons of personal magnetism this year, so go out and find that certain someone (or something)!

The Horse
It’s the year of the Fire Horse so burn baby,burn! It’s your time to zap away pesky hindrances and find new personal freedom. Run with the wind in your hair and stars in your eyes. In 2026 don’t let small things be big things, especially in relationships. Be a big picture thinker and don’t get caught up in minutiae. Obstacles may arise, but by overcoming them you set yourself up for success later. Money should be steady this year. Commitment will be on the table for single Horses in 2026.

The Goat 
This should be a harmonious year for all 8th Sign people (known as the Goat, Sheep or Ram). Be prepared for new opportunities and lucky breaks! You may meet an awesome new friend, helper or mentor this year, and there shouldn’t be many obstacles crossing your path. Quality, not quantity, is the name of the game in love! A significant relationship may form for many single Goats this year. Spiritual exploration may be calling, so go and try to find some answers.

The Monkey
If 2026 starts out like being stuck in traffic, don't lose heart! Everything will loosen up and start working out as the year goes on. If you are a single sapiens, chance will be on your side in love, especially in the second half of the  year. The next twelve months with have lots of twists and turns. A  focus on longer term planning will pay off big time. If you are trying to make a decision, ask yourself, 'What would my future self thank me for?"

The Rooster
2026 is a year to take a chance in love...not with money! Roosters will be showered in the sparkly light of the lucky love star this year. If you've been lookin' for love, this is the year to find it! Don't settle for a 'situationship', because you will have better/more opportunities for connection than usual in 2026.
Although business looks stable, money will be well earned. Watch every penny (oh wait, I guess that would now be a nickel?) and make sure you know where all of it is going. This is not a year to speculate.

The Dog
2026 will be an outstanding year for the Dog. Progress, growth and success are possible, but will be well earned! Some dogs will earn alot of money this year, helped along by the mysterious machinations of fortune. Travel will bring positive experiences that may have long term effects.
Relationships will benefit from real investment. Dividends will be exponential! There are strong patterns of new relationship flowing into 2026 for singles. 

The Pig
Although the energy of 2026 is going to be very dynamic, even explosive, keeping it low key is the best road to take for the pig this year! This is especially true in love. If it is meant to be, it will be. Don't knowingly engage in drama!
In general, the horse will help the Pig this year, so don't worry too much if things don't go to plan. Being flexible, but persevering and clear about your direction, will go far. Your career looks good, even progressive, and there is a chance to make more money in the second half of the year.

On April 1st, 2024 (April Fools Day! haha) Mercury goes retrograde. This is not considered a good thing by most people! But just like many things in life, it is not a black and white situation. It is nuanced and there are plenty of circumstances where a retrograde is actually a great thing!    🪐 . • ° ★ •  ☄
As a rule anything that starts with 'Re' is productive under a retrograde. Here are some ideas and concepts that come to mind:
Review-Release-Rebalance
Recieve-Recover-Redirect
Retreat-Realign-Repair
Reunion-Renew-Relish
Reflect-Redirect-Resolve

I am sure there are other aspects of your situation or other 're' words that would make sense in your life right now.
In western society we are trained to just go-go-go and be a production machine. But that is just brainwashing. We need just as much time to reflect and retreat and to reassess! Retrogrades give you permission to do this, so take it with both hands.

April
Many of us will finally see some rewards for what we've been working on! Others will recognize us and our work and we will be getting some sort of pay off. If you're in the arts this could indicate a successful Gallery showing or performance. If you've been working on some lifestyle situations other people may be noticing a shift in you. You definitely will be feeling  satisfaction for work well done and joy for sustained effort bringing you something that you want to see happen. If you're single you could get more attention than usual in April,  especially if you've been putting some energy into attracting a relationship into your life.
3 of pentacles x 6 of wands

May
OH shiver....May might bring an unexpected new emotional experience as well as a sense of vulnerability. Make sure that you are only sharing your deeper self with people that are there to support you. Some of us may be feeling extra sensitive right now. This is not good or bad,  it's just a time period to be really gentle with yourself. Healing is here. Some of us may be feeling like we want to get more in touch with our spiritual life. Exploring a deeper connection to the divine will be worth it. There are plenty of spiritual traditions out there, so be open to new experiences. If you're feeling particularly  vulnerable don't be afraid to go find a healer. May is a good month to share your deeper self with your sweetheart or a significant other. In general it's a month to not go it alone or reinvent the wheel. Look for the helpers because they're there.
Page of cups x Heirophant

June
June will be a real light at the end of the tunnel month especially in the realm of relationship. If things get hard just try to stay grounded and grateful for what you have. There's lessons to be learned through a difficult situation and many of you will be actually seeing movement and progress into new realms in your life. Greater self love and /or a new love relationship will be the reward at the end of this journey.
6 of Cups x 3 of swords = ace of cups

February (2nd half)
The two energies that are combining in late February are about the dance between being clear about what you want and taking action...or not. For some of you the time for action comes after getting more clarity.  Now is the time to make plans, do  research and brainstorm. It isn't time to make the move until you are absolutely clear about what you are aiming for. Many of us are going to feel excited about a new project or a new relationship, but it is best to make sure you are ready for a stronger commitment to the idea, plan or person. Don't force anything. Timing is important.
Some of you are clear about next steps, but are afraid to actually take them. Ask yourself why. Do you have a fear of change or rocking the boat? Most things worth having involve some risk.  ⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
Sun x 2 swords

 March
On March 20th we have the Spring Equinox. And just like nature striking a balance between  light and dark, we need to find our own personal balance this month. And part of that may include taking a break from the day to day to refill your emotional and spiritual well! There is a focus on healing in this reading, especially for those of you who are coming out of a difficult time period. Many of you will be recuperating well after a health issue or a big change. We are amazing beings, able to manifest miraculous transformations! Just like plants emerging from a time of quiet and rest, so are we now, stretching towards the sun and rebirth.⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
Temperance x 4 of swords

2024 is the year of the wood Dragon in Chinese astrology.

"In Chinese culture, the Dragon holds a significant place as an auspicious and extraordinary creature, unparalleled in talent and excellence. It symbolizes power, nobility, honor, luck, and success. 2024 is forecasted to bring about opportunities, changes, and challenges. If you're seeking a shift in your current lives, this year might offer a favorable chance."*

Here is a quick oveview for your zodiac animal in 2024.

The Rat:  The rat will have a fabulous year and 2024. It's being guided by a lucky star that will bless you with cash. The rat should also have good luck in romance, but just make sure you are communicating well.


The Ox: The ox will have good luck in 2024 through other people, especially when it comes to career and income opportunities. Relationships should be peaceful, especially in the first half of the year.

The Tiger:  Tigers should have awesome financial assistance this year. There could be multiple opportunities for financial growth. But in health they need to watch out for bad habits. Luckily you are in control of your lifestyle. Pay attention. 2024 is not the best year for taking risks in love.

The Rabbit:  If you feel lonely, Rabbit, have hope! 2024 I should bring many opportunities for connection... and even love. Money should not be an issue this year even if you don't win the lottery.

The Dragon:  Dragons are the only mythical creature in the Chinese Zodiac and 2024 is a dragon year. This means there may be some challenges for those born under this sign, but overcoming these challenges makes the way so much smoother and brighter down the road. It's definitely a year of growth!

The Snake:  Snakes it should be fine financially this year but be careful of your reputation. Don't take any chances and definitely act with integrity in your professional life because there's a chance to really expand your Connections in 2024.
Romance should be a rockin' this year!

The Horse:  2024 is not a year of big risk taking for Horses. Make sure you're taking care of your health and getting good sleep and don't take risks with your money. That being said, if you've got a good plan,  some of you may start your own successful business this year. Relationships will benefit from honest communication and some relationships will be going into deeper territory.

The Goat: Many Goats will finally see their hard work pay off this year! 2024 is a very dynamic year for goats but, timing will be important. Don't force anything, especially in romance. Playing games probably won't work well this year.

The Monkey:  The monkey will have a fabulous year in most sectors of their life in 2024. Just be careful to not gloat. Someone else's jealousy could ruin your day. Be modest.

The Rooster: 2024 is a five-star year for the Rooster! It looks great for finances and for love. There will be lots of opportunities to choose from so choose wisely.

The Dog: 2024 is an interesting year for the dog. While there's many opportunities for gain, there's also the risk of loss. So play it safe and use integrity and you should be okay. Definitely take care of your health and do not take risks with your money.


*https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/chinese-zodiac/dragon.htm

I find that when I do this sweet little morning ritual it just starts my day off in a very positive way that seems to ripple throughout the rest of the day. So I thought I'd share it with you
Here it is step by step
*Make the bed! Trust me it's a little division between sleeping and waking and it's so lovely to get into a freshly made bed at night.
*Drink the rest of the water on your bedside table
*Find a quiet place do a couple of stretches and then sit down on the ground in a comfortable position
                                                           :･ﾟ✧:･.☽˚｡･ﾟ✧:･.:
Now is the time for the chakra clearing meditation.

Imagine a sparkly light coming down from heaven in your favorite color. It enters through the top of your head which is your 7th chakra. This is your connection to the Divine and divine inspiration. Just imagine this sparkly light washing your rock and roll hair!
Then it moves down to your 6th chakra and your third eye. The light washes down through the rest of your head  helping you see clearly. Then it comes in through your throat washing the 5th chakra clean . This helps you to speak your truth. The light  continues its Journey going into your chest and into your arms and out the palms of your hands to clean out your palm chakras. It gently scrubs your heart clean to help you give and receive love in your fourth chakra
The sparkly cleansing Divine Light continues until it gets to your midsection around your diaphragm. This is your third chakra. It gets scrubbed clean to help you breathe deeply and Center yourself in your personal power.
The sparkly light of the Divine continues down into your pelvis and this is your second chakra. Everything gets washed in healing light to help you with your connection to self and other and also to help you be mindful of your money.
This Divine Light continues its cleansing and clearing all the way down through your legs and out through the bottoms of your feet which are also chakras. This is your first chakra and it helps you be a part of community and also stay grounded in your life.

After you visualize this journey through all of your seven chakras you can sit quietly for as long as you like. During this time I like to make a mental list of five things that I am grateful for and then I get up and start my day.

It just feels good to know that my bed is made and I am I'm hydrated. I've stretched and I've done some real spiritual hygiene and I love starting out my day with gratitude.
I hope you enjoy this. If you are interested in chakras and their meaning, I recommend the book 'Anatomy of the Spirit' by Caroline Myss.

July
Harness the fire of the Ace of Wands to burn through the parts of your life that are stagnant. What lies on the other side of your complacency is a deeper connection to your purpose and your deep creativity. It's a great time to finish up things that have been lingering and add a little special stardust,too! Do you have a bunch of crafting materials lying around that you're meaning to use to create something beautiful? Well go find that YouTube video and learn how to do it. Or go take a class. Just do it! The point is, your creative fire wants to burn baby, burn! But you have to clear some space for it... mentally, physically and even spiritually.
Love could burn bright this month. Both of these cards are pretty sensual.  The Ace of Wands is very passionate and the Empress just wants to run around in her flow-y cosmic caftan, barefoot and  loving who she wants to love.
Ace of Wands x the empress

August
Wow. This month has some really interesting energies. They are so opposite that either they're going to clash or they are going to work themselves into a complimentary dance... almost like yin and yang. I think we should focus on ways to make this energy complimentary and powerful.
The energy of the the Emperor doesn't really vibe with the energy of the Moon and vice versa. The Moon is about deep subconscious places and wild untamed inner territory.  The emperor is very yang and all about outward production and control. BUT there's no way to control the moon.
This month, the energy of the moon has to be listened to ...First. Space needs to be made for hearing the inner voice. And once you hear the message...  then engage the energy of the Emperor card. It can carry your message/dream forth into the real world. Any other way and the emperor is going to hold the door shut on whatever the Moon is trying to open. Self first, world second.
The moon and The emperor

September
If you're feeling depleted energetically, spiritually or financially right now, have hope! New opportunities for fulfillment and gain are approaching. In September we start in the difficult place of the Five of pentacles, refering to a sense of lack in some aspect of our lives. Luckily the Ace of pentacles is about to arrive. Aces are raw material that need to be given energy to become something, or they are an opportunity that needs to be taken in order to be activated. Yay!!
On the health front, if you actively make changes in your diet and lifestyle, the Ace of Pentacles will take you from dilapidated to dynamic! Start positive change....yesterday!
the Five of pentacles and the Ace of pentacles