Then at the same time, my 18 year old cat Lulu encountered some major health issues as well. She’s got a severe UTI and also late stage kidney disease, according to the vet. Which isn’t at all unusual for her advanced age. She’s currently on antibiotics and at home napping in the sun. We’ll keep her comfortable as long as we can but we are unsure how long she’ll remain on this mortal coil.
It hasn’t been the best of times. But I still have a lot to be grateful for. I believe I’m past the worst of my illness. I’m fed, clothed, housed. And I’ve had 18 wonderful years with this sweet calico cat, and I’ll cherish however much time we have left together.
I’ve been reflecting back on old photos and memories with Lulu and remembered that ten plus years ago (!) I used to share tarot readings from her on Instagram. Some of them are kind of cute so I thought today I’d collect a few and let them live in perpetuity here on Substack.
One thing you should know about Lulu: she is genuinely the sweetest cat you can possibly imagine. I’m telling you. When I adopted her, the shelter workers told me “this is the cuddliest cat we’ve ever met.” I was like, sure, they are wanting her to get adopted. But she truly is. If you’ve ever sat down in my house, you’ve likely had Lulu in your lap (either with or without your consent). She’s always purring, she’s always in a lap, and she loves every human being she’s ever met (and all the ones she hasn’t). Take the messages from Lulu that resonate, and leave the rest.
Without further ado, Lulu reads your cards.
Hello human! I have to tell you something head on. You are stronger than you think. You’re more capable than you let on. You’re wilder than you show. You have all the courage, vitality and boldness of a big kitty within your being. It’s all there, your spirited fierce nature, and can be accessed if you just decide to let it roar. -Lulu (deck: Alchemist’s Oracle)
Lulu says: place most of your energy and concentration on the things that bring you joy. (deck: Lumina Tarot)
Hello humans! There are times to follow your big brained head, but there are also plentiful tines to be led by your wildly thumping heart. Today is a good day to allow yourself to be guided a little more by your soul. You have dignity and grace when you move with love. That’s because your heart is a good heart. I love you, human! -Lulu (Alchemist’s Oracle)
Hello human! Once upon a time, there was a loving, creative wonderful human and that time is now and that human is you. There are lots and lots of stories you can sit on and associate yourself with so I say always choose the happiest and most uplifting ones. When you consider your own story, remember that you are a kindhearted, capable hero. If you’re living in a story that doesn’t feel that way, it’s time for some fur-raising plot twists! I wish you many many many happily ever afters and I love you. -Lulu (Alchemist’s Oracle)
Why rock the boat? If sticking to a routine works for you, do what you always do. -Lulu (Tarot of Pagan Cats)
Luxury is not a luxury. Luxury is a necessity! Tiny things can feel soooo pampering. Fresh sheets. A warm blanket. Long, slow stretches and time spent with blinky, winky eyes…that’s what your soul is craving. -Lulu (Tarot of Pagan Cats)
Congratulations – you’re a bonafide, mature grown up! You are the ruler of the roost, the top dog (oops, I mean cat). Get ‘er done and follow through with your commitments (even if you’re like me and your only commitments are sleeping and eating). -Lulu (Tarot of Pagan Cats)
You know that feeling when you’re doing something nice for someone but it feels so good to be doing it? That’s a really swell way to feel. Reach out to someone who needs to be warmed up. Let them drink from your cup, you’ve got plenty to go around. You can be kinda a surrogate mama kitty to them. Spread around the simple kindness with pure and innocent intentions. Mrrrow! -Lulu (Tarot of Pagan Cats)
Don’t even pretend not to know how adorable and charming you are. Amp it up and use it to pull your desires towards you. You’re a magnet for what you want! -Lulu (Tarot of Pagan Cats
It’s not okay for someone to abuse the power they hold over you. You aren’t required to be submissive to them! If they try to hold you down, put your paws up and show them they don’t own you! -Lulu, guest starring Nanners (RIP) (Tarot of Pagan Cats)
Hello humans! Today I want to tell you a scientific fact: there is nothing funner than having fun. Fun can come in really big ways, but I like it when it comes in really small ways, too. So I say when you see something and think ‘that looks fun’ you should frolic towards that thing! Okay humans? I love you. Have fun. -Lulu (Alchemist’s Oracle)
And a bonus:
When I began reading tarot I practiced on Nanners & Lulu. I did a life purpose spread for both of them and they each received the Ten of Cups. Too purr-fect, right?