The year of the Rat begins on the first new moon after the winter solstice, on February 6th. The rat is the first of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac and is associated with new beginnings.

Plans and projects started in the year of the rat have a strong potential for long term success as long as they are practical and well thought out. Those who are motivated and energetic will do well. Small ideas can grow steadily over the long-term; it will be a good year for new beginnings, reinventions and starting over. If there is something you have always wanted to do, this is the year to begin!

Rats like to keep moving, take risks and favor mental activity. Because this will be an Earth Rat year, the earth element will lend a bit more calm and stability after the last two fire years. Rats are known to be clever, curious, witty, smart, frugal, shrewd, and industrious, with a certain charm and a great sense of humor. They are fond of having many children and enjoy the gathering of large families, which makes the year a good one for marriage, starting a family or having another child, even adopting a new pet.

Rats are not looked upon favorably in the western world but in the Chinese zodiac they are revered as the adaptable, opportunistic scavengers who have a talent for accumulating wealth. On the down side they are known to be gossipers, so tarnished images are something to watch out for this year.

The year of the rat is an auspicious year that can bring abundance, good fortune, and fun times socially. This year will be especially good for those born in the year of the Rat, Dragon and Monkey.

WISHING YOU AND YOURS ALL THE BEST IN

THE COMING YEAR!