Tomorrow begins a new year, the year 4703 by the Chinese calendar. It is the Chinese year of the Dog.

Chinese New Year – 2006 is Year of Dog.
January 29, 2006 is the first day of the Chinese new year.

And if you are wondering what Dog people are like – here is a summation from the Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco:

People born in the Year of the Dog possess the best traits of human nature. They have a deep sense of loyalty, are honest, and inspire other people’s confidence because they know how to keep secrets. But Dog People are somewhat selfish, terribly stubborn, and eccentric. They care little for wealth, yet somehow always seem to have money. They can be cold emotionally and sometimes distant at parties. They can find fault with many things and are noted for their sharp tongues. Dog people make good leaders.

I know a dog person. Loyal – check, honest – check, selfish – possibly, stubborn – check, eccentric – probably, caring little for wealth – check, distant at parties – check, sharp tongue – check.

Chinese folks don’t generally celebrate their birthdays until they reach 50 or 60 years of age. Individual birthdays are not celebrated, rather the first day of the new year is the day all birthdays are celebrated. A really big party!

So, I will celebrate my Chinese birthday tomorrow, and my western birthday next week on Wednesday.

Now I am off to the studio with a headful of ideas.