Cooper, your recurring dream is quite rich in symbolism and detail, reflecting deep aspects of your subconscious mind. The open grassy field that forms a giant circle with a forest boundary can symbolize a sense of wholeness and protection. The circle is often associated with completeness and unity, while the forest boundary suggests the unknown or unexplored areas of your psyche. The picnic setup at the top of the mound could signify a desire for relaxation and enjoyment, but also a high point in your journey or a place of temporary respite.
The presence of the hot air balloon and the act of shrinking down in size may indicate a need for perspective. Hot air balloons often symbolize freedom and the ability to rise above situations. The shrinking in size suggests a shift in perspective, perhaps seeing things from a more childlike or innocent viewpoint. The descent past the picnic basket and down the field towards the castle that only you can see at a smaller size might imply that there are hidden aspects of your life or mind that only become apparent when you change your perspective or approach things differently.
The fight with a goblin that transforms into someone you know highlights inner conflicts. Goblins are often representations of fears or negative aspects of yourself. The transformation into someone you know suggests that these internal conflicts are somehow related to your relationships or perceptions of people in your life. Entering the castle, which is a mix of your aunt's house, your own, and a dungeon, indicates a complex emotional landscape. The familiar elements of your homes suggest comfort and known territory, while the dungeon aspect introduces elements of fear, confinement, or hidden parts of your psyche.
The tour guide, the vampire casket, and the terrified tiger inside a bar cage jail cell are rich with meaning. The vampire represents something that drains your energy or life force, possibly a person or a situation.