Chinese New Year festivities are at an end. The sound of incessant firecrackers going off at all hours of the night and day has died down. Paper lanterns were released into the air during the Lantern festival last weekend, and life is almost back to normal on Planet Taiwan. I know I’m a little late with this post, and I’m aware that everyone has already been hammered with articles about 2010 being the Year of the White Tiger. But I don’t really care. This post is for me. It’s a reminder for a very special year and I hope that I can look back on this and reflect on the changes in my life when Chinese New Year rolls around next year.

So, yes, back to 2010 the Year of the Tiger – the metal tiger to be exact – and me. You probably already know that the Chinese believe that each year is represented by one of twelve animal signs.  Each animal has its own particular characteristics, and whatever year you are born in determines which animal’s characteristics you will take on. The Chinese zodiac animals are: the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Visit Chinese Astrology if you want to figure out which animal you are.

On to me and my relationship with the White Tiger….

A few quick facts about the Metal Tiger

The Tiger’s motto is “I win”. (I love it!)

Gemstone: diamond (Won’t John be pleased to read this!)

Lucky colors: Green and red

Lucky numbers: 2, 3

Characteristics: energetic, independent, successful, risk taker, competitive, ambitious, impatient, quick-tempered, restless, courageous,

Ideal Careers for Tigers: Music, Acting, Writing, Advertising, Management, Aviation, Travel, Entrepreneur, Politics (Weird, eh? I can claim four on this list.)

Interestingly enough, Tigers are also known for getting bored easily and often change careers. This point is very true about me. I get bored really easily, especially once I feel that I have learned everything that I can learn.Then I can’t wait to move on to the next thing.

I’ve had a great start to 2010. I received a clean bill of health in January. The doctors told me the inflammation in my spine is gone and I have returned to my regular workouts. It feels great to be able to run again. I never realized how much I rely on running to relieve stress.

I’ve moved ahead with my business plans. Although I haven’t formally announced what I’m doing, I have already found clients and I’m confident that I’ll be working independently by June.

John and I have our first journey of the year behind us. We just got back from two weeks in Palawan, Philippines. Expect some updates about our travels there over the next month.

I’m also making travel plans for this summer. I’m heading home to Canada, but my travels this summer will also take me to Las Vegas, Calgary, and Smithers, B.C. if everything works out according to plan.

Yes, I’m feeling energetic, slightly restless, and very ambitious this year. I think I’ve got this tiger thing down pat.

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