Janet, it's wonderful to connect with you and explore the layers of your dream together.
Dreaming of shaking the Queen's hand often symbolizes a desire for recognition and validation in your waking life. This encounter suggests you may be seeking acknowledgment for your accomplishments or qualities, especially as you navigate a time of personal growth at 55. The presence of your cousin or nephew who is mentally challenged could reflect an aspect of your life where you feel protective or nurturing, highlighting your compassionate nature.
The Queen’s affectionate gesture of kissing your cheek indicates a sense of approval and connection to a higher authority or wisdom. Her words, “curiouser and curiouser,” may represent a call to embrace your curiosity and explore new ideas or experiences. This dream encourages you to delve deeper into your interests and embrace the unexpected elements of your life.
The imagery of the dessert adds a delightful layer to your dream, suggesting that you may be experiencing or craving moments of joy and indulgence. The dessert, described as having a hard sugar shell and a puffy cream, symbolizes a reward or treat that comes after effort, reflecting your appreciation for life's pleasures. This could also indicate that you are in a phase where you are recognizing the sweetness in your experiences, despite any challenges you may face.
Overall, this dream seems to reflect a positive outlook and a sense of connection, both with yourself and with those around you. Embracing this curiosity and nurturing your interests can lead to fulfilling experiences, especially as you continue to explore your personal journey. It's beautiful to see such rich symbolism in your dream, and I hope this interpretation resonates with you.