Stevens Family: February 2011

Both boys are learning about Chinese New Year at school. Samuel got to visit Chinatown with his his schoolmates. They walked down the street and checked out all the menus from the restaurants. The were spotting dragons and Chinese decorations. Samuel got to buy some special snacks in the Chinese Supermarket and we finished up with lunch at a Chinese Buffet. Owen learned at school that he is the year of the Rooster, He also learned that Samuel was the year of the dog. I was interested to see if there was an accuracy in the Chinese zodiac, so we looked up the meanings online, and I couldn't help but look up the rest of the family as well. .

Owen year of the Rooster: Hardworking, strong-willed and confident. Well organised and good time keepers. Enjoy being the centre of attention and love flattery. Often outspoken and hate criticism of themselves though they can be inclined to find fault with other people.

Samuel, year of the dog: Faithful, honest and ready to serve others. Believe in truth and justice and loyal to friends. Always willing to listen to people’s problems and is able to gain the respect of others. Will share their thoughts but do not easily forgive those who cross them. Trustworthy. Tend to worry too much.

Mackenzie, year of the rat: Ambitious, clever and devoted to their family. Hard-working and imaginative. Not always sure of themselves and do not always plan for the future. Will always stand by their friends.

Joni, year of the goat: Elegant, artistic and good-natured. Inclined to worry too much. Peace-lovers who prefer to avoid disagreements. Others may put upon them, but they are stronger than they seem. Family is very important.

Mike, year of the Tiger: ,Sensitive, emotional and adventurous. Confident, risk takers and dislike taking orders. Good at seeing problems, but less able to see the solutions. Often seek a shoulder to cry on when feeling down. Warm and generous to the people they love.