Photo by Bruce Dale
I was also born under the sign of the Water Buffalo. If you'd like to learn more about the Chinese Zodiac and the personalities attributed to the symbols, go here:
http://www.theholidayspot.com/chinese_new_year/zodiacs.htm#rat
Jordan was born in the Year of the Rooster. People born under this sign are said to be pioneers in spirit and devoted to their work. Brian was born in the Year of the Rat. (Can you say Ratatouille?) People born under this sign are supposed to be ambitious and honest.
The New Year begins on January 26th, and continues for up to 7 (sometimes 15) days. Each day is marked by specific celebrations, such as celebrating ancestors one day, dogs another, having special holiday foods on certain days, etc. It is very clear that having a clean house during this period is one of the most important elements of keeping luck "in" and bad spirits "out" during the coming year. I wonder, since it is also called the first day of Spring in these cultures, if this is where the term "Spring Cleaning" originated? Hmm. I'll have to look that up.
Most workplaces and all government buildings are closed during the celebrations, sometimes lasting two weeks or more. All of the prospective adoptive families are waiting for the offices to open back up after Tet so that their adoptions can be completed. My prayers go to them!
My family wishes all of you a Happy Lunar New Year!
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