I am a hugger. Family, friends, many people I’ve just met, and even some strangers get hugs. I got it from my mom, who got it from her mom. (See my Facebook page for a photo of my grandmother hugging me when I was about a year old.) My cousin Debbie Lynn is also a hugger, and when people ask about her long, loving embraces, she explains they’re Auntie Esther Hugs. It makes us both miss my mom. You should see when Debbie Lynn and I meet up at Aldi’s or an occasional family affair. Hugs go on forever. Today we were socially distanced, responsible, longing for contact, but only taking photos of one another. We talked and talked, exchanged goodies with gloved hands, and tried some keto pancakes I made from a mix; she got me to eat them with almond milk whipped topping and not the New Hampshire maple syrup in the pantry. (We both would recommend them.)
Days are spent walking outside the little my knee will allow, cooking, reading, watching videos, poking around Facebook, making phone calls, deleting emails, meditating and just looking out the window at the garden, the sunsets, the rain, the lights of the passing cars. Also have to get in some late-night monologs when they’re posted. I usually save them for the end of the day so I go to bed with echos of my laughter in my head.

I had not tried to assess the pandemic with a tarot spread, but when I was asked about it, I was moved to pull one card. It was the Six of Wands. It’s actually quite appropriate. It indicates you are facing a challenge. However, I have always read it as “one you will thoroughly enjoy,” like taking on something just for the fun of it to see how far you can advance your skills (magical or mundane). The card shows strength used with restraint. He is not seriously threatened. I haven’t seen a lot of enjoyment, and the threat is serious, but the challenge part is dead on, taking us places we never dreamed of when the year began, putting our skills to the test. The card also comes with the assurance that wit, ambition and enthusiasm will get you to overcome the obstacle(s). 

Sending you hugs tonight.