((The Steampunk Tarot, Moore and Fell))

Autumn is fully upon on us, and Winter is not far behind.  

The Full Moon of November has several names, among them Beaver Moon, Tree Moon, Snow Moon, and Frost Moon. I have chosen Frost Moon; this is a time of preparations as we feel our deepening roots, and we ready for winter as well as the many upcoming holidays.

The cards above remind us of the importance of following our passions, freely investing our time and energy, appreciating efforts (our own and others) towards a successful outcome benefiting more than just ourselves. This is not a time for slap-dash attempts, cut-corners, or begrudging efforts; you must give freely, earnestly, and whole-heartedly for best results (although as always, mileage may vary).

The flurry of activity in November is meant to make Winter warm and cozy; we want to be comfortable while we are snuggled in watching the snow fall or listening to the winds howl. To that end, I offer the following simple suggestions:

• Prepare your home and car: Take your car in for service, have the furnace checked, build your emergency kit (candles, radio, batteries, granola/protein bars, bottled water, etc).
• Prepare your wardrobe: Make sure everyone has their winter-wear; gloves/mittens, scarves, hats, boots, etc. (Just for fun, I often buy extra gloves or scarves in bright prints or colors, to brighten the grey months).
• Prepare your nest: Take inventory and be sure every bedroom has what it needs to keep warm, particularly fresh blankets, robes, slippers
• Prepare your pantry: Keep comfort food ingredients on hand for simple soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes – whatever you like. The occasional cake mix is usually appreciated as well.
• Prepare your hearth: If you do not have a fireplace, use candles to create the positive energy  and warm glow of the hearth. If you have a fireplace, consider burning herbs (sage, rosemary, basil, thyme) to bless your home.

Autumn is lovely, do not forget to enjoy the unique colors and flavors particular to this time of year. Winter will bring her own colors and flavors before you know it.

((All images courtesy of Google Images and Facebook.))