Chinese New Year

Today, on February 7th, is beginning the Year of the Earth Rat , the first in the next astrological cycle.
Chinese New Year is one of the oldest and most celebrated traditions in the world. Chinese calendar runs on a 12-month cycle, each of them has name after the animal derived from Chinese folklore as a method for naming the years. According to legend, thousands of years ago Buddha called all the animals to a meeting telling them he would make the first twelve animals arriving associated with a year, creating the signs of the Asian Zodiac. The animals follow one another in an established order and are repeated every twelve years - rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Each animal has particular characteristics and people born in a certain year are believed to take on these characteristics.

The rat is a highly respected animal in Chinese culture (unlike its western image), to rat was given first place in the zodiac and declared to represent new beginnings and keen intelligence. Those born under this sign are alert and persevering. They save and work hard for things they most desire.

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In the Year of the Rat , we can expect 12 months of plentiful opportunities and prospects not to mention being relatively free of turbulence, (which is great to know especially if you're planning on making some long-term investments, starting new projects, or keeping the home fires burning brightly). This is a time of hard work, activity, and renewal. This is a good year to begin a new job, get married, launch a product or make a fresh start. Ventures begun now may not yield fast returns, but opportunities will come for people who are well prepared and resourceful. The best way for you to succeed is to be patient, let things develop slowly, and make the most of every opening you can find.
A good, calm year for the RABBIT, No surprises, no big problems, but not as fruitful as he wishes either. Progress will be steady as no serious opposition is foreseen in his work or home areas. A time to make plans for the future or buy property.
May you have longevity, prosperity and wealth .
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(Linocut colored with watercolor and watercolor pencils )