THE YEAR OF THE RAT 2008

The year of the Rat began on the new moon of February 6th, 2008 at 7:44 PM PST. Chinese New Year begins on the second new Moon after winter solstice. Rat year is a time of plenty, bringing abundance and good fortune. During this auspicious year, Rat's prosperity can influence everyone, and is especially lucky for those born in Rat, Dragon, and Monkey years.

Expect a powerful year when people are firm about their goals, passions, and aspirations. Although there  may be fluctuations in world economies, it is an excellent time to start a business, buy property, invest in long-term plans, or accumulate wealth. Ventures begun in the  Rat year will prosper if well prepared, but it is not a time for foolish risks. Rat loves the pack, so this year is also a time for socializing, entertaining, and enjoying ourselves.

Those born in Rat year (1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1996, 2008) have a natural ability to be successful because Rat is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Rats are smart, sharp, clever, humorous, creative, curious, witty, industrious, and frugal. Rats can pinch pennies and be real bargainers. Some translations refer to Rat as mouse, which can be misleading; Rat's personality is rarely mousy or meek. Rats can be easily adapt to different environments and survive against all odds. Their charm and quick wit win admiration wherever they go. They are very observant, quick to take action, are popular in social circles, and are good organizers. Rats have a talent for the arts, especially writing.

YOUR FORTUNE IN RAT YEAR

RAT  Enjoy a great year and a new life cycle of opportunities! Rats are empowered by experiencing the chi of their own year. This cycle can bring good fortune, abundance, and luck. Financial gain is foreseen, happiness and contentment can be found, relationships prosper, and creativity is stimulated. Be thrifty; a penny saved is a penny earned.

OX   Even though crafty Rat outwitted Ox to become the first animal of the zodiac, Rat and Ox are compatible. Experience better fortune and contentment this year. Financial gain, promotion, and recognition can occur but Ox still works hard. Friends, family, and associates will be helpful. Stay strong and steady, and take care of yourself. Next year 2009 will be Ox year, your time to shine.

TIGER  Exuberant Tiger seeks action, and there will be plenty of action in a Rat year. Anticipate gains and opportunities for advancement. Rats think, plan, scheme, and ponder -- which are not Tiger traits. But direct Tiger succeeds anyway, and is lucky in love too. Should money be tight, then compromise must be accepted. All Tigers will start a new fortunate twelve-year life cycle in Tiger year 2010.

HARE  Expect a nice year with opportunity for advancement. An auspicious time to change residence, invest in real estate, or remodel or decorate your home, but all actions must be very carefully planned and documents thoroughly examined. Rat is three steps ahead of the game (like Monkey) so don't be duped. Luck is with you this year to expand your charmed circle of friends and family.

DRAGON  Rat year is one of the best years for mighty Dragon because Dragon and Rat are close friends. Rat's influence brings new beginnings and exciting creative endeavors that perfectly match Dragon's flamboyant style. Business interest prosper as does romance. Finally, luck returns to the Dragon.

SERPENT Prepare for hectic activity, which could overwhelm Serpent with responsibilities. If Serpent remains calm and centered, and addresses each problem as it arises, progress will be attained. Serpent's innate wisdom can match Rat's cunning, but it is best to be frugal and not spend or loan money at this time. Luck returns in Ox year 2009.

HORSE  Anticipate challenges because Rat is opposite Horse in the twelve-year cycle of the zodiac. Conflict can occur in romance, in business, and with authority figures including the law. Horse benefits from prudent spending, disciplined work, and behaving less free spirited. Continue with current efforts and do not start new enterprises. Luck returns in Tiger year 2010.

SHEEP  Rat year can be a positive year for Sheep as long as Sheep do not stray from their current path or make big changes. Rat and Sheep hold very different values so this is not a time for new risks. But business improves, debts can be paid, and no huge problems are foreseen. Strive to create a family and home life that is balanced, calm, and healthy. In romance and friendship, don't let anyone pull the wool over your eyes. Time to be more frugal and not "eat paper."

MONKEY  Good fortune for the Monkey! Rat, Monkey, and Dragon are best friends so Rat year's energy perfectly matches Monkey's values and sensibilities. Business can flow without too many problems, romance and family life blossom, and success is indicated. Love luck is strong during the entire year, especially with a Rat. Just don't monkey around so much that you lose credibility or take on more than you can reasonably handle.

PHOENIX (Rooster) A year for powerful Phoenix to shine, yet be practical and less domineering. Your cycle of rebirth will be in Ox year 2009 so be flexible during Rat year. Budget if you experience financial difficulties, avoid speculative business deals, and don't loan money to family or friends. Should relationships become strained, take the high road and lead by example. Phoenix is smart and quick, which is valued in a Rat year, but this is not the time for risky endeavors. Phoenix experiences better fortune in autumn and can be victorious by the end of the year.

DOG  Rat year is auspicious for Dog who can experience good fortune and look forward to many pleasurable occasions. Rat and Dog are compatible (both love the pack) so relationships are fine this year. Dog is a hard worker, but too much diligence could become drudgery and not mentally stimulating. Health is strong and illness can be avoided, so enjoy your good fortune and don't worry. Just don't fall for schemes and instead be realistic, which is a natural trait for Dog.

PIG  Good luck continues from the previous Pig year. Expect a prosperous business year when minor financial difficulties or delays can be overcome. Romance is highlighted, social success is foreseen, and Pig has opportunities to enjoy unique experiences including fine dining, travel, and gourmet adventures. Activities flow more smoothly if Pig seeks support of family, co-workers, or superiors before starting new projects.