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Blog: The Year of the Rat  



FEBRUARY 7th, 2008
CELEBRATION OF THE CHINESE NEW YEAR

THE YEAR OF THE EARTH RAT 

After two Fire years life may seem calmer during this Earth year. That could be deceptive, however, as the Rat never stops moving, especially when it comes to mental activity.

Unfortunately Earth has a destructive relationship with the Rat's fixed element, Water. This is not disastrous, but it does mean people should not rely too much on luck this year.

On the other hand the combination of Earth and Rat is extremely positive when it comes to achieving results. The Rat tends to take a lot of risks, while Earth is associated with practicality and stability. This creates balance and can lead to good profits, increased productivity and all sorts of accomplishments. And, under Earth's influence there could be fewer scandals than in other Rat years.

The Rat is the first sign of the Chinese zodiac and signifies new beginnings. This year is thus an appropriate time to start new ventures, especially groundbreakings. This includes new ideas, directions, and ways of doing things. It is a time to experiment and put plans into action, as there will be plenty of opportunities to achieve success. Something to consider is that which is begun now is likely to have long term consequences, so choose wisely to enrich your life.

Interestingly this is an equally good time for thinking and all kinds of intellectual endeavors. Planning, scholarship and research, for example, are favorable activities. It is also an auspicious time for the arts; although, under Earth's influence, applied arts such as design and graphics may do best.

Earth favors those who are tied to the land, do a lot of routine work, deal with practical matters, or perform work of a spiritual nature. Looking at the characteristics of both Earth and Rat it could be a very good year for those with careers in business, construction, engineering, academia, planning and the clergy.

There is likely to be a focus on career and self improvement this year to the detriment of family. People thus need to be attentive and creative so that this area does not suffer. It is, however, a relatively good time to begin a new romance. Those in a serious relationship may want to consider raising it to the next level, to include marriage. Since this is an Earth year those people born in a Metal year will generally fare better than others of their animal sign, while those born in a Water year are likely to do worse than those born in Wood, Fire, and Earth years.

Health issues vary not only by sign but by each individual. Your best bet is to visit a Chinese doctor to have your balances checked and get some advice for the coming year. It is an Earth year, so one thing we can say in general is to get enough exercise and be on the alert for unwanted weight gains. Inactivity could lead to problems.

The year 2008 will be a year of possibilities, a time of progress; although it may not generally be spectacular. Those who take the biggest risks could be disappointed. Everyone should, nevertheless, add something new to their life.

I am a:

METAL TIGER

People under this sign are very emotional, kind and sensitive. But on the other side they can be quite short-tempered, so beware of their temper. Tigers are also deep thinkers and come out with perfect solutions even in the toughest of situations. Sometimes Tigers can get self-centered and suspicious also. Metal tigers are always open to opportunities and are quite competitive people. These people are known for their considerate and forgiving nature. Tigers are very passionate lovers and open their heart to the loved ones.


FIND YOUR SIGN & ELEMENT

Remember that the Chinese New Year always runs from February to February and the dates change slightly each year. So, although I was born in 1951 in the western calendar, according to the Chinese calendar I was born in 1950 at the tail end of the Year of the Tiger. This New Year actually begins on February 4th, although the giant celebrations will be held on the 7th of February. If you have an early-to-mid February birthday it's trickier to figure out which sign you fall under. If this applies to you, click here to find your actual sign before checking your prospects for the Year of the Rat:
Chinese New Year Beginning Dates
If you were born in any other month, just skip to the chart below.

RAT SNAKE
Metal Rat   : 1900,1960
Water Rat  : 1912,1972
Wood Rat   : 1924,1984
Fire Rat     : 1936,1996
Earth Rat   : 1948,2008 		Metal Snake   : 1941,2001
Water Snake  : 1953,2013
Wood Snake   : 1905,1965
Fire Snake      : 1917,1977
Earth Snake    : 1929,1989
OX HORSE
Metal Ox    : 1901,1961
Water Ox   : 1913,1973
Wood Ox   : 1925,1985
Fire Ox       : 1937,1997
Earth Ox    : 1949,2009 		Metal Horse   : 1930,1990
Water Horse  : 1942,2002
Wood Horse  : 1954,2014
Fire Horse      : 1906,1966
Earth Horse   : 1918,1978
TIGER LAMB
Metal Tiger  : 1950,2010
Water Tiger : 1902,1962
Wood Tiger : 1914,1974
Fire Tiger     : 1926,1986
Earth Tiger  : 1938,1998 		Metal Lamb    : 1931,1991
Water Lamb   : 1943,2003
Wood Lamb   : 1955,2015
Fire Lamb       : 1907,1967
Earth Lamb    : 1919,1979
RABBIT MONKEY
Metal Rabbit  : 1951,2011
Water Rabbit : 1903,1963
Wood Rabbit  : 1915,1975
Fire Rabbit      : 1927,1987
Earth Rabbit   : 1939,1999 		Metal Monkey  : 1920,1980
Water Monkey : 1932,1992
Wood Monkey : 1944,2004
Fire Monkey     : 1956,2016
Earth Monkey  : 1908,1968
DRAGON ROOSTER
Metal Dragon  : 1940,2000
Water Dragon : 1952,2012
Wood Dragon : 1904,1964
Fire Dragon     : 1916,1976
Earth Dragon  : 1928,1988 		Metal Rooster  : 1921,1981
Water Rooster : 1933,1993
Wood Rooster : 1945,2005
Fire Rooster     : 1957,2017
Earth Rooster  : 1909,1969
DOG PIG
Metal Dog  : 1910,1970
Water Dog : 1922,1982
Wood Dog : 1934,1994
Fire Dog     : 1946,2006
Earth Dog  : 1958,2018 		Metal Pig  : 1911,1971
Water Pig : 1923,1983
Wood Pig : 1935,1995
Fire Pig     : 1947,2007
Earth Pig  : 1959,2019

 
 
 
 
Now, see what the year of the Rat holds in store for you. 
Click on the animal of your sign to find out.

      

     

       

HAPPY FORTUNE HUNTING!

Posted: Saturday January 12, 2008, 2:59 pm
Visibility: Everyone
      

Tags: chinese_new_year year_of_the_rat chinese_astrology
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Past Member (0) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 4:12 pm
Dont subscribe to any of this nonsense cpr

Tim Redfern (473) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 4:57 pm
I choose to believe. I've seen too many proofs that this is real, astrology, tarot, etc.
5,000 years of Chinese history? There has to be something to it. I SURE know 5,000 years of Chinese medicine has alot going for it!
Thanks, Cate!

Valerie K. (73) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 5:32 pm
Thanks Cate! I'll take any good news is this looks like some for 2008! Like Tim, I believe that there must be something to these Chinese horoscopes, though I don't bet on it or make investments based on it. I'll pay attention though! :)

Karen VDay (80) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 5:52 pm
This is very interesting....thanks Kate for presenting the subject!

Gail L. (35) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 6:17 pm
This was very interesting Thanks a bunch Cate.

Kathy C. (281) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 6:49 pm
How the Dog fares:
This year may be a bit more challenging than the last, but it still has the potential to be very favorable. The thing is the Dog is more comfortable with the Pig, which symbolizes endings rather than the Rat, which is associated with new beginnings. If you are willing to leave your comfort zone, you can make significant progress towards your objectives and also achieve one or more notable successes. As with much in life your attitude is likely to determine just how well you do.

Kathy C. (281) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 6:53 pm
I love dogs:)
But I do know I'm true to my Aries Sign.
Aries
The spring equinox, March 21, is the beginning of the new zodiacal year and Aries, the first sign, is therefore that of new beginnings. The young ram is adventurous, ambitious, impulsive, enthusiastic and full of energy. The Arian is a pioneer both in thought and action, very open to new ideas and a lover of freedom. They welcome challenges and will not be diverted from their purpose except by their own impatience, which will surface if they don't get quick results.


Ali Hirst (347) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 6:57 pm
How the Dragon fares:
Hopefully the Pig showered blessings on you last year. If not, not to worry. This year promises to be even better with your good friend the Rat in charge. You can enjoy a lot of success, but this is still not the best of years as Earth does not favor your luck. It is thus a time to avoid risk. As a Dragon, you could be something of a dreamer. If so, this is the perfect year for you since Earth promotes practicality. You are thus likely to have a good chance to realize one of your big dreams.

Brandy Ramos (226) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 7:49 pm
Thank you Cate,
WOOD RABBIT Astrology
Feb 14, 1915 to Feb 2, 1916
Feb 11, 1975 to Jan 30, 1976

Wood rabbit people are very quite and warm people. Power and solitude pull them on two sides. Luck always walks along with them but they never take rash decisions or unwisely steps. They are generally cautious, conservative and bright people. Wood rabbits always earn deep respect and admiration from others. They have a philosophical bend of mind and love to read and indulge in music and art. But as far as their finances go, they have to keep a very strict check on it. Wood rabbits are big spenders and hardly have anything saved for tougher days. As far as their love lives are concerned, they are very romantic and flatter their sweetheart with all types of gifts and surprises.
This Describes me to a tee.
Many Blessings and Hugs.

Brandy Ramos (226) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 7:53 pm
How the Rabbit fares:
The scratchy Rat often takes the Rabbit out of its comfort zone. This year is thus likely to be a lot more challenging than last year, especially since the Fire Pig year is one of your most favorable. The middle months are likely to be the toughest. Although you want to avoid risk throughout the year, it is especially important at that time. You will best be able to take advantage of the good times if you can keep your emotions under control, especially when things don't go your way.

Carol S. (120) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 8:00 pm
Well, all Cultures have something(more than something actually) to contribute to the stew. The Year of the Rat!!!...and I just ate cheese for dinner! History, Culture, Insight, Cuisine, --- we are all connected...thanks Dear Cate and, Happy New Year - AGAIN!! Gung Hay Fat Choy!

A fun link for all:

http://www.chiff.com/home_life/holiday/chinese-new-year.htm

Nancy M. (51) 		Saturday January 12, 2008, 8:18 pm
I like to keep my mind open to all possibilities. It may be nonsense, but then again, it may NOT be. Until I've been shown absolutely one way or the other, I will keep my mind open.What have you got to lose? It's fun!Thanks, Cate!

Trudi Reijnders (227) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 12:27 am
Thanks Cate.I am a wood lamb and will try to remember what it says for me:

After what was probably a very favorable, Pig year, this year might seem like a disaster. It is important, however, for you to understand that you are still looking at five, favorable months. There will thus be plenty of opportunities if you do not get down and let negative emotions get the best of you. Your natural inclination is most likely to follow your heart, but you will do much better this year if you can let your head dictate your actions.

Joycey B. (512) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 6:04 am
As always, Thanks for the most interesting stories Cate.

Sheila K. (130) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 9:10 am
Thanks that was fun...........I also learned something NEW about the Chinese New Year that it started BEFORE my actual birthday which pushes me to the year before I was born....I'm a Wood Monkey...YEPH.........I guess you can say that! LOL.........I always enjoy these fun things you send..........KEEP IT UP! Hugs to you Cate

Merry Loscalzo-Stumpf (82) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 1:15 pm
Thanx Cate- That was fun!

Tassa Rose (10) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 4:28 pm
Quite Interesting...I'ts certainly better than the place-mats at the local Chinese Restaurant:)--LOL!

Ramona Gehl (134) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 5:38 pm
Hi Cate....I'm a fire rooster...looks like I'm in for a bad year! :-(

Carolyn Daley (78) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 6:13 pm
I am a Fire Rooster also. Although I am optimistic since I am also a Libra which has a good outlook for 2008. I do believe that I will feel the influence of both the year I was born and also the month. I enjoy reading these forecasts.
Thanks for sharing, Cate.
PS. My mother gave me a big Rooster stuffed animal for Christmas. It was pretty scary when I saw the legs sticking out of the bag. LOL

Sweets ForTheSweet (235) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 6:50 pm
Thanks Cate I enjoy stuff like this.

Michael Sandstrom (360) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 6:59 pm
Water Dragon

Michael Sandstrom (360) 		Sunday January 13, 2008, 7:00 pm
How the Dragon fares:
Hopefully the Pig showered blessings on you last year. If not, not to worry. This year promises to be even better with your good friend the Rat in charge. You can enjoy a lot of success, but this is still not the best of years as Earth does not favor your luck. It is thus a time to avoid risk. As a Dragon, you could be something of a dreamer. If so, this is the perfect year for you since Earth promotes practicality. You are thus likely to have a good chance to realize one of your big dreams.

Fawn L. (39) 		Monday January 14, 2008, 8:00 am
Thanks Cate! I'm a Earth Horse. Hugs!

Joanne D. Ferguson (582) 		Monday January 14, 2008, 2:16 pm
Thanks Cate, this is very interesting. I really believe in astrology. I'm an Earth Pig.

Ann T. (66) 		Monday January 14, 2008, 4:34 pm
I am the water Dragon How do I find out about me?
Ann Tuton

Kactus Kat (334) 		Monday January 14, 2008, 11:25 pm
Hi Cate! You always find something interesting to check out! I am a WATER DRAGON, & I see I have a twin (Michael S) who has alraedy posted. Also, I knew Ali & I had to be similar! *hugs* Ali!

Now for the question. How did a Water Dragon & a Metal Tiger end up with a Water Dog? LoL! I guess it's called a Chinese menagerie!!

Kactus Kat (334) 		Monday January 14, 2008, 11:27 pm
Ohhhh, I just saw that Ann is a Water Dragon, too! We're multiplying fast! Three Water Dragons on one list! AMAZING!! Thanks, Cate!

Kerri N. (50) 		Monday January 21, 2008, 11:41 am
If the rats fixed element is water and I'm a Pisces I should be safe this year right? lol

Rosemary R. (179) 		Wednesday January 30, 2008, 9:01 pm
Oh Cate you knock my socks off 'girlfriend' ! i'm an Earth Rat and after reading all about 'me' ... well, let's put it this way, does anybody want to 'trade' ...lol........... Happy Year of the Rat Metal Tiger

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