February 18, 2007 marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Boar (Pig) (4705 in the Chinese lunar calendar). In Chinese geomancy, this year is symbolized by fire sitting on water. As such, it is a symbol of conflict, so expect wars and strife to continue around the world; problems involving religion and cults; political polarization, overthrown governments and disputes at all levels. However, not everything will be negative. The boar will make it a good year for economic recovery and improvement in living standards. Business involving fire, earth or metal will do very good such as real estate, mining, hotel, chemicals, insurance, high tech industries. The year will also bring changes, so it will be good for those seeking new jobs, homes, schools. The constant movement will also benefit the travel industry. You are a “boar” if you were born between Feb. 4, 1935 and Jan. 23, 1935; Jan. 22, 1947 and Feb. 9, 1948; Feb. 8, 1959 and Jan. 27, 1960; Jan. 27, 1971 and Feb. 15, 1972; Feb. 13, 1983 and Feb. 1, 1984; Jan. 31, 1995 and Feb. 18, 1996.

恭喜發財

Zhong Qiu Jie or Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. This year it falls on  September 25, 2007. 
It commemorates a 14th century Chinese uprising against the Mongols when rebels wrote the call to revolt on pieces of paper that were embedded in cakes given to compatriots.  The full moon is symbol of abundance, harmony and luck. Moon cakes eaten on this festival are symbolic of family unity and closeness.