I bought my first deck of tarot cards in my late teens. The mists of time have blurred the facts but I do know it was the Aquarian Tarot because I still have it in my possession. My star sign is Aquarius and that seemed a good enough reason to claim the deck as mine; even back then I didn’t feel an affinity to the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith deck but there weren’t as many decks to choose from as there are today. Next came the Tarot of a Moon Garden, which was first published in 1993, providing more clues for my tarot timeline. That deck has since been lost so on a whim I bought another copy last week. Leafing through the cards I’m immediately transported back to that 20-year-old art student sitting on my bedroom floor trying to Figure It All Out. It’s like slipping into that younger skin, remembering her confusions and questions, and the pain of my first big relationship ending.
More than twenty years later my passion for divination cards has only grown stronger. They are creative and illuminating companions to my journaling and a constant friend in harder times. Funnily enough, it’s never once occurred to me to do readings for others. My relationship with the cards is extremely personal but while some of my decks are very precious to me, I don’t believe the cards themselves have inherent magical powers — they are simply pieces of cardboard after all — but my decks are special like my old journals are special: familiar, worn and loved. I treasure them like I treasure my books — and buy as many, too :)
As you can probably tell, I’m not big with the crystal balls and fortune telling. For example, I wouldn’t use the cards to make a decision, I’d use them to help me uncover how I FEEL about a decision. For me it’s less about “what’s going to happen?” and more “what am I really feeling? What do I need right now?” The cards are like mirrors reflecting me back to myself, an inspiring collection of clues and prompts that help me connect to the wisdom inside and around me.
I’ve wanted to create a course that explores using the cards for our own creative and personal growth for some time so I’m thrilled to announce the arrival of the Daily Guidance class! Eventually I’ll have my own deck of cards you’ll be able to use with the lessons (can you imagine?) but for now we’ll make do with the extraordinary array of decks that are currently available… Prepare to get addicted, my friends.
There’s an old wives tale floating around that your first tarot deck should be gifted to you, which I think is hilarious, because a) you’ll probably be waiting for a long time and b) it’s much more meaningful to take the time to find a deck that really sings to your soul. I’ll be sharing lots of my favourite in the class — I’m a huge fan of independently produced decks — as well as breaking down the different types of cards and styles of art to help you find decks you’re excited to get to know.
For now, here are some recommendations for a potential first (or fifth!) deck:
TAROT
The Universal Waite — this modern version of the traditional Rider Waite Smith deck is easier on the eye, with softer colouring and lots more detail. As the majority of tarot books refer to this system it’s worth investing in a RWS deck (or clone, like the Anna K and Dreaming Way decks below) so you learn the basics — it will stand you in good stead.
The Anna K Tarot — this sweet deck gives super clear readings, by which I mean it’s easy to understand what the cards are saying! I love the whimsical figures and friendly vibe and found I could read with this deck straight out of the box. Great for beginners. (artist’s website)
Dreaming Way Tarot — modern and yet oddly nostalgic, this is another RWS clone that breathes life into the cards. I find the art exquisite and since cutting off the borders (I’ll talk about making your decks your own in class!) it’s fast becoming a favourite.
Dame Darcy Mermaid Tarot — never in a million years did I think I’d love this deck as much as I do. Quirky, unkempt, fun and utterly charming, this self-published deck gives the traditional RWS imagery a nautical-themed new spin. I simply adore it.
The Wild Unknown Tarot (above) — this is the deck I pull out most frequently and always find new ways to appreciate its simple beauty. Possibly not the best choice for your first deck as some of the cards might leave you scratching your head; on the other hand, if the art speaks loudly to you it will find its way into your heart. There’s a reason why it’s so popular! (UK stockist)
Shadowscapes Tarot — Stephanie Pui-Mun Law’s ethereal paintings take you into a new land, one filled with magical beings that have their own stories to tell. Gentle and intuition-enhancing, this deck loosely follow the RWS system and dreams up new fantastical ways to envision the cards. (artist’s website)
ORACLE CARDS
Mother Mary Oracle — this is such a nurturing deck of cards, it’s my favourite Alana Fairchild deck (and I have them all). Her words are as beautiful as the paintings on the cards themselves and I love to draw a single card when I’m looking for a word-hug.
Magdalene Oracle — this is a deeply feminine sultry oracle that always inspires me to dig deeper into my desires. You’ll often find one of these cards on my altar.
The Goddess Oracle — this beautiful deck showcases goddesses from cultures around the world. It’s supportive and illuminating with a sizeable guidebook filled with mythological meanings, interpretations, poems and rituals.
Earthbound Oracle — a new favourite that I like to read with alongside a tarot spread. So simple and clear, I love how they eloquently add another layer of insight to any cards I’ve pulled.
Vintage Wisdom Oracle — there’s a quietness to this deck I find very soothing. The artwork is gorgeous (how a deck looks is as important as how it reads to me) — I love this one especially. Definitely one to add to your collection.
Soul Cards — this deck doesn’t have any words or even interpretations in the booklet. Instead, you meditate on the image to find your own meaning. Excellent journaling material and deeply intuitive, I’ve had some profound readings with this deck.
The giveaway
To celebrate the launch of the new class I have six decks up for grabs — The Wild Unknown Tarot, The Shadowscapes Tarot, The Dame Darcy Mermaid Tarot, The Mother Mary Oracle, The Magdalene Oracle and a set of Soulcards.
There will be 12 winners in total — 6 peeps get a deck of cards and a place in class PLUS! another six peeps will also get a place in class.
** If you win and you’ve already enrolled in class I will send you a refund! **
I’m happy to mail the decks anywhere in the world, so this giveaway is open to all.
How to play
You can enter up to five times in the following ways:
1. Leave a comment on this post sharing something that has already made you smile in 2016
2. Pinterest: Pin the first image below with a link to this post (then leave a comment saying you’ve pinned it)
3. Instagram: Share the second image below including a link to my IG profile @SusannahConway and the hashtag #dailyguidancecourse (then leave a comment saying you’ve shared the pic)
4. Facebook: Share this post on Facebook (then leave a comment saying you’ve Facebooked it)
5. Twitter or Google+: Tweet/share this post with your peeps (then leave a comment saying you’ve tweeted/shared the post)
Comments will close on Friday January 22nd at 11pm GMT comments are now closed and I’ll contact the 12 winners on Saturday 23rd (please make sure you type your email address carefully when leaving a comment)
Good luck and thanks for helping me spread the word about Daily Guidance! xo
* UPDATE: All the winners have now been notified :)
TO SHARE ON PINTEREST:
TO SHARE ON INSTAGRAM:
TO SHARE WHEREVER YOU LIKE :)
Biggest smile so far in 2016 was running pushing my two kids in a Chariot through the snow, and looking down to see them hugging (two and four years old).
PS Susannah you are lovely
My birthday was last week and my friends and family made me feel so special and loved that I was smiling all day! Plus my crazy cat makes me smile on a daily basis! Thanks for the chance to win a spot and a set of awesome cards!
Planning to bring my two little boys to Scandinavia to visit my soul-sister has already brought so many smiles in 2016 as we prepare for our Big Adventure!
Something that made me smile this year: My children’s laughter!
Susannah, you always seem to know just what I am in need for. About a year and a half ago I went and bought my first deck of cards. Having always been interested in deeper meaning and feeling deeply connected with animals living in my surroundings – jeez, that just sounds like I live in the wild ;-) – I chose an animal totem sort of oracle cards. I seem to come across birds of prey on my path during daily walks in the forest and would look them up. Seeing them sharing the same path as a way of telling me things. (Does that sound crazy-cat-woman style?) Anyway, it worked for me: It gave meaning to me. Now I pick cards and try to understand what the message could mean for me. Or with a certain matter in my mind. It gives me guidance, and also helps me in a quiet kind of way.
I have been looking for a new deck, and for a good book for better understanding. God knows my “save for later” list on amazon is largely filled with possible books and decks, but I just haven’t got round to just that book that tells me what I would like to learn.
And now you come with this class! I am truly thrilled about this! I guess you understand I would love a place in class!
Thanks again!
Pinned it – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/24840235422789525/
I repinned this!
Your Love Letter arrived in as soon as I finished Meditation this morning. The idea of searching has been my catch cry for some time but to simply open leaves space and time and a gentleness I don’t often invite. Thank you for your continued generosity it is a miracle of faith and kindness qualities that Instill such hope and possibility in me. The thought of paying attention with the assistance of the Tarot again offers an opening which speaks of that same generosity. An inspiration to take into my day. Thank you. Louise
My familly make me smile always in the bad and in the good moments that we share together. Is what keeps me alive and with strenght to fight my battles every day.
I shared in Pinterest, Twitter and Facebook
Thank you for the opportunity, sending you good energy for this new year.
I have started cross country skiing this winter and just had a lovely sunny morning on the trails with my dog yesterday!
I pinned your blog post!
Something that has made me smile in 2016 is the very belated holiday party I threw with the new group of friends I made in 2015. All great ladies who I’m happy to know. And of course, the Love Letters always brighten my day up a little. :) Thank you.
Something that has made me smile so far in 2016 – I’m currently reading “May Cause Miracles” and the daily exercises have really got me thinking and discovering things about myself I didn’t even realize were there. Hope to read more self-help books this year!
Pinned this post https://www.pinterest.com/pin/538250592945079173/
Your promotion for this course inspired me to order The Wild Unknown deck and choose some oracle cards on my own. I went with the Measenger Oracle by Ravynne Phelan. I can’t wait to learn more.
What has made me happy this year is my 6-year-old son, who is being treated for cancer. He is extra sweet and super snuggly in addition to being brave. He makes me smile daily.
Posted to Instagram.
I have loved each of your courses and will be with you on this one. Thank you for your great work and for a chance to win!
My sweet baby boy- even though he’s been sick all week, he still finds so much joy in everything.
Hello do you Know the Tarot of Marseille ? The tarot from the history
Share on Facebook* and instagram, already in pinterest :)
Starting my last first day of school has made me smile in 2016! My last semester of college – only a few more months to take in all the beauty and time for growth in the little comfortable womb of college life. Looking forward to going out into the “real world” with confidence, ease, love, wisdom, and -my word for 2016- trust. <3
I asked for (and received) the Wild Kuan Yin Oracle cards for Christmas. I smile every day when I choose a card and it always speaks directly to me. Thank you for Find Your Word and for sharing your journey with us.
I have found the most wonderful man who loves me more than I thought possible and he has made me smile every day of 2016.
I have never experienced this in my life and I am beyond grateful for it. =)
*At a party, I did a Tarot reading for him before he was on my radar, but according to the cards and according to him, I was already on his.
Just had to share!!
Good Luck everyone!!
Pinned and also my smile moment. Today during savasana on my lawn, I opened my eyes and saw a flock of geese fly directly over me.
Something that has made me smile this year — rediscovering my love of creating art. Allowing myself to approach it with curiosity instead of judgment so that I can just enjoy the process.
At the beginning of the year I received a belated xmas gift from a very special friend of mine. Seeing the box all wrapped in the postman’s hands already made me smile, and when I opened it and saw all the gorgeous items she had sent me, I just couldn’t help it, but smile with all my might. I am so lucky to have her as a friend :)
Being creative makes me smile as does my cute Cocker Spaniel Ginger. :)
I’ve pinneed and shared on facebook.
Thanks for this opportunity!
Something that made me smile in 2016 – watching my son take up a new martial art.
Shared.
Something that makes me happy every day are snuggles with my long hair chihuahua and my cat………. they each climb on top of my lap and fight for space closest to my belly. I love being close to them in the morning.
Something that has made me smile in 2016 the golden, glowing light at this time of year.
shared on pinterest and Facebook :)
Pinned.
My daughter just started remembering her dreams, it always makes me smile to listen to all her sleepy time adventures.
I pinned it!
Something that has made me smile: My little dog who insists on me keeping her warm through the cold days. Another thing: Getting love letters in my inbox from you. Thanks for a bit of sunshine in the cloudiness. xx
Pinned your image to Pinterest! ?
Yes indeed! :)
thank you, Pam! xx
Something that made me smile: getting lost on a hike and stumbling upon the most gorgeous rusted out Dodge pickup to ever not-roll on the earth. It was waiting for me to find it.
Goats make me smile. Especially baby ones.
https://www.facebook.com/goatfans/videos/10153470400926929/?pnref=story
I have started asking the Universe for specific signs that things will work out and I have been seeing those signs a lot lately :)
Something that has already made me smile in 2016: finding old journals as I clean out and discovering poetry among the muck (actual poems, boy trouble entry muck!).
Hi Susannah,
This is so cool! Thank you for this drawing. I have used different decks in my past and mostly settled on the Medicine Cards (animal totem cards), but have not used them in a while. What has made me smile in this new year has been an unexpected joy at experiencing winter and snow since moving to Minnesota. It has brought back loads of memories from my childhood spent in Buffalo, NY…snow capitol of the US LOL.
I’ve committed to posting an image a day to my Instagram account this year and so far have kept up my commitment. I smile because the project encourages me to look for look for beauty everywhere.
What has made me smile this year is on the very first day of the year I was offered my dream job that is 100% location independent and doing everything I love for a business I believe in . 2016 is going to be a WONDERFUL year – thank you!
(Pinned your post)
Pinned the image! (kikitrelawney on Pinterest)
What has me made smile so far this? Well, I have been learning to embrace my word (LOVE). Maybe through just listening to my heart or being with the ones I love. Like my wonderful friends. Also my lovely and amazing niece. She is only 4, but she fills my heart up with love every time I see her.
Posted to Instagram!
OOPS forgot to say…posted on FB, IG, Pinterest, and Twitter!
Posted to Facebook
I have been asking for specific signs from the Universe that everything will work out ok and I am seeing those signs a lot lately :)
Posted on Facebook!
My daughter’s birthday is 9th January, and my anniversary with her father is 12th January – so I always have an awesome start to the year, being surrounded by the people I love and good vibes.
Pinned on Pinterest; https://www.pinterest.com/pin/480196378998495191/
Shared on Facebook and Twitter :)
Tweeted! :)
When David Bowie died, I was devastated, but then I put on ‘Fashion’ and had a super silly dance party with my three year old son, and that made me feel a little better….
Shared your post on Facebook.
The Mother Mary Oracle deck is one of my favourites too :)
I was standing on a table in my art room in school today tying a mobile to the ceiling so it could flow and move along with the many others i have dangling in the classroom – i love mobiles and it makes the kids look up- also me! and smile. I was accompanied by a group of year 10 kids who are hard work but sometimes even though they can frustrate me they come out with such honest comments that make me smile and appreciate what i do. I bought a new pair of boots- last week and because i was up high they zoomed in – well you can imagine, the boots were referred to as…they’re some boots miss, you could do some work in them across the fields, they’re like a man’s work boot!! Why are you wearing them! i just had to smile….no comments made on my behalf!! :)
Shared image on Instagram :) Thanks for the chance!
I smiled this year when I reached Vancouver and began Art Therapy school. BEST DECISION EVER.
Amy
Tweeted.
One of the things that has really made me happy so far this year is that my partner and I have planned a getaway weekend at the beach for Valentine’s weekend! Can’t wait to spend more one-on-one time with him! <3
My friend bowling in a Dirndl on her hen night. So cute, so much love. Xxx
I received the news yesterday that a friend I have known for more than 20 years is getting married. He has found the girl of his dreams and popped the question. This news made me so very happy full of joy for a wonderful friend.
Got myself a treat to some lovely fabrics from the fabric store. Inspired to make them into some lovely spiritual crafts.
The thing that made me smile recently is my older son bringing a blanket for his newborn baby brother.:)
Something that has made me smile is the suspicion I am finally pregnant after losing a baby last year. I am a bit afraid to check and living in the hope for just another few days.
Thank you for the New Year Giveaway!
Shared on Pinterest! https://www.pinterest.com/pin/50384089559447896/
Shared on Instagram :-)
I have the Shadowscape oracle. I love the art!!!
What made me smile? When I used the cards they were so damn accurate, I couldn’t help but smiling. And I thought, why don’t I use them more often?! Such an insight! And now your cards for the love letter, just what I have to focus on while recovering. ( and which is so hard) Made me smile again. Hey, universe are you trying to tell me something?! ?
I’ve posted on instagram and pintarest. The other ones I don’t use.
I went for a walk with a friend this morning, we stopped to admire the sunrise and smile.
Shared on pinterest, instagram & twitter.
I smiled a lot today when it started to snow. I love the snow when I don’t have anything particular to do. Watching it float down is just lovely from the warm inside!
What made me smile this year…my first tarot reading of 2016! This happened after creatively expressing my intentions for the new year while having a glass of wine with a group of moms whose kids were all put to bed by their dads! It was a profoundly nurturing experience.
Sorry, forgot to say I shared on Instagram too ?
I have pinned!
I’m intrigued by oracle cards, and being intrigued by something new always makes me smile.
My youngest son has started say I love you to all of us. Heart melting.
My family makes me smile!!!!
I have also tweeted :)
I have also posted on Instagram.
I started of the new year by selling a painting and working on a painting for a charity : )
I have shared on Twitter. :)
I have shared on Facebook. :)
What a fantastic giveaway! We have a new puppy who is making me smile (and at times making me crazy!). I am out walking with her early in the morning and appreciating the stars and sunrise!
Pinned on pinterest!
Oh I get to smile every day when I light up a small LED heart light that I place on our dinner table when we eat or when we have tea. Or just because :) And two days ago, when we had this amazing and unusual sun for this time of year, we had our first lunch outside, on the balcony, and it was awesome. And every heart shaped stone I see on the hike makes me smile, and there are lots of them. <3 I love the big Universe and it's loving messages.
And I like your writings and all the efforts you pour into your classes.
Hope you feel better soon.
Greetings from SLOVEnia :)
Twitted! <3
Facebooked ;)
Something that has already made me smile in 2016 is spending a bitterly cold winter night indoors at a dear friend’s house, drinking wine, and staying up talking til 2a :)
So far 2015 has had its share of ups and downs. Yet my favorite moments have been the little ones like having a fabulous New Years dinner with my beloved, having a friend generously decorate our home and his cake with flora, kindness in the midst of chaos, parcels of love shared across miles and the moments of small recognition where others allowed me to be seen and heard. Grateful for this year ahead and this giveaway you are hosting <3
My son got his dream trumpet this week, the sounds of happy creativity are all around our home!
Pinned it! :)
Pinned :-)
Shared on Instagram!
Something that has made me smile are our cats. They are so funny, we let them play outside monitored and they love to play in the snow. Their foot prints in the snow make me smile as does their cuteness :)
Shared on Pinterest! Not sure how to share on Instagram!
Thanks for the link to the Alana Fairchild website. I LOVE the Wild Kuan Yin Oracle Cards! That made me smile.
And also the fact that having given up on online dating, I meet a perfectly lovely local man in the pub across the road from my house. That made me smile too. Looks like 2016 will be a year of LOVE for me too!
Shared on fb:
https://www.facebook.com/anamaria.calin.7330
My 16yo daughter made me smile yesterday. I was sitting at the kitchen table yesterday and she was puttering around in the kitchen making herself a snack and she was so graceful and confident and seemingly happy in that moment. It made me smile to just watch her being her.
Thank you for this opportunity. I shared on Pinterest and Instagram.
Shared on pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/532691462156032578/
Shared on twitter!
my children make me smile everyday:-)