Year of the Golden Pig

Happy New Year to China! 2007 marks the Year of the Golden Pig. It has been reported that this occurs only once every 60 years or so. With the beginning of this extra special year, more babies will be born in the country in the same manner that occurred during the Year of the Dragon seven years ago. It must be interesting to live in a country where the government controls the amount of children you can have. In China, that magic number is one. Could you imagine what the U.S. would be like if the government penalized you for having more than one child? Very interesting concept. Anyway, the Year of the Golden Pig is said to be double luck and prosperity. I don't know the first thing about Chinese astrology but the prediction for this year sounds great! Who wouldn't want to have double happiness?!? According to the Chinese calender, I was born in the Year of the Ox. You knew that was coming! Ha ha. Those born in that year are said to be born leaders and inspire confidence in all who come in contact with us. Traditional also says we are demanding people. I wouldn't necessarily categorize myself as demanding but rather one who holds high expectations of others similar to the manner in which I am held. In any event, it will be interesting to see just how many babies will be conceived and born this year in China.

On a completely different note, in North Dakota, a new record was set. Over eight thousand people made snow angels simultaneously. How cool is that?!? Last Friday when I was walking to workout, I passed by a schoolyard that was literally like a blank canvas for snow angelas. I was so tempted but alas, the gate was locked. I'm confident we will get more snow before the season is over. I can't believe Lent is upon us this Wednesday. I haven't figured out what I will be giving up yet. I think this year I will make it an abstract abstinence. Maybe something like no negative thoughts and words or no emails unless it's school related or responding. Or maybe only one hour of tv a day. I have until Tuesday night to work it out. Sharon emailed to ask me when I'm coming back to Europe for a visit. I'm thinking that I may try to go at the end of May or June since I don't think I'll be able to save up enough to go to South Korea to visit Sungrim. I may have to save that trip for December. In the meantime, I have yet another round of career fairs and interviews coming up. I hope and pray that a good match will occur at least in this aspect of my life. I have some projects in addition to reading to get done so I better get going.