tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47347147756270869732024-03-15T21:09:11.309-04:00Bo's Dragon LoreA wondrous account of all things dragon.Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-24346700063541836972024-01-15T20:48:00.000-05:002024-01-21T21:05:49.553-05:00Bo's Dragon Lore: Predictions for the
Year of the Dragon 2024
(Yan...<a href="https://www.bosdragonlore.com/2024/01/predictions-for-year-of-dragon-2024.html?spref=bl">Bo's Dragon Lore: Predictions for the
Year of the Dragon 2024
(Yan...</a>: Predictions for the Year of the Dragon 2024 (Yang Wood Dragon (Jia Chen) 10th February 2024 – 28th January 2025) Worldwide, the year of ...Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-54050933005202826882024-01-15T20:32:00.003-05:002024-01-21T21:04:36.584-05:00<p> </p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Predictions for the
Year of the Dragon 2024</span></span></h1><div><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">(Yang Wood Dragon (Jia Chen) 10th
February 2024 – 28th January 2025)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCdbePxdW7DtL_bgSgqFGLjqANP7TYqg4eVYUH98OWiBmtwltNRmgFQ7JLEt5puk18Tg0qqy-EaMm9Vjd_uhZC0jFlkEdraz1QsPZsv3hLv1E6zVW5IsbkjFlgmft-8CKLOalaOsrdHkaRNQpjHgzJx9z_81LyDhZ8-wFJY3ijLyUCj1Qc5AnSebdVyOk/s1200/2012-01-21%2004.42.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCdbePxdW7DtL_bgSgqFGLjqANP7TYqg4eVYUH98OWiBmtwltNRmgFQ7JLEt5puk18Tg0qqy-EaMm9Vjd_uhZC0jFlkEdraz1QsPZsv3hLv1E6zVW5IsbkjFlgmft-8CKLOalaOsrdHkaRNQpjHgzJx9z_81LyDhZ8-wFJY3ijLyUCj1Qc5AnSebdVyOk/w534-h640/2012-01-21%2004.42.24.jpg" width="534" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">Worldwide, the year of the Rabbit/hare (what with viruses, wars, finances, and an energy crisis etc.) had been a daunting time.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">Take heart, the year of the Yang wood Dragon 2024 will usher in a massive change because of the period 9 Flying star Feng Shui. (In Feng Shui, there are nine periods, with each period lasting 20 years in a 180-year.) Regardless, this change will not be immediate and, can either be good or bad, depending on the impetus and initiative. To ensure positive result, forego the indolent reflex of waiting for things to happen and instead, utilize (make the most) the advantages of the present time.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_GLUZLyD2QVWigbGNt1t3xOzzvPS_nvfmhA1U0eLWiCKzbjD3SVmWT3_4yLPX6vzripL7NlWA7335TIm0V24fDQHzBLnf90sm4mZ22IJZxyLhC3LvHavhmUOjpxLQ6YKLJ8sBv98F83zpAorAYgxuUQfCZ-jMxQ0aVwNo1Dyis7_oDqtcRQ1bACxq9E/s800/1-Rat-1200_Final-Painting.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="800" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_GLUZLyD2QVWigbGNt1t3xOzzvPS_nvfmhA1U0eLWiCKzbjD3SVmWT3_4yLPX6vzripL7NlWA7335TIm0V24fDQHzBLnf90sm4mZ22IJZxyLhC3LvHavhmUOjpxLQ6YKLJ8sBv98F83zpAorAYgxuUQfCZ-jMxQ0aVwNo1Dyis7_oDqtcRQ1bACxq9E/w640-h520/1-Rat-1200_Final-Painting.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>2024 Predictions for
the Rat</b></span><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rat can look forward to an overall
productive and rewarding year in 2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Rat in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The year of the Dragon 2024 will be an
extremely busy and stressful time for the Rat; hence, they must be mindful of
their diet and take time out regularly to relax/recharge, to prevent consequential
(inevitable) burnout. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moreover, the Rat,
by frequently practicing mindfulness and meditation, could manage the (unavoidable)
stress. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Rat in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rats work life will be promising
and those who are self-employed or run their own business, provided they put
the extra effort in, could see their career ascending to new heights. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Rats who are employed in a company can
also look forward to achieving (noteworthy results) definite progress in their vocation
this year, particularly those who work indomitably hard and show dedication in
their workplace. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those considering changing career and
those looking for work will benefit from remaining consistent in their search
and by approaching potential employers as soon as an apt position is made
available; this will ascertain (establish) the Rat’s repute (status) as a resolute
and keen applicant and will lead to quick successful employment.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Rat in 2024 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rat must keep a close eye on their
outgoing expenditures during 2024, however, as they will encounter unexpected costs
during the year. This will not be a year of money worries though, and if they
budget their money well during the Dragon year, also, whenever it is feasible set
aside money, they should be able to attain those desired, costly objects (items)
later in 2024. Older Rats should give thought to their long-term money goals
during 2024 as the choices they make this year could be beneficial and they
will be much better off in those retirement years.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Rat in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rats love-life will be positive one
during the year of the Dragon and there will be many Rats accomplishing major
milestones with their partner this year. To derive full benefit from good
relationship luck and to avoid issues, however, the Rat must regularly include
their partner or loved ones in all their plans (aspirations) throughout 2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Single Rats who are looking for a solid
relationship could achieve their goal, though they may have to go through few
short-term relationships before meeting that someone with good prospects for
the future.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and family life for the Rat in
2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rats social life will be joyful
and busy one (with friends, family, and loved ones) in the Dragon year. 2024
will be particularly an auspicious time for the Rat to socialize and to surf
the internet, as there is a chance The Rat will encounter that special someone,
and later still that will turn into an enduring relationship. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Rats in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It is looking to be a very promising
year for the Rat, with lots to look forward to in different areas of their
life. The Rat should however (be frugal or,) practice good spending habits this
year to make the most of their money. Avoid careless overspending and reserve
necessary time for researching those big purchases. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Rats are in affinity with the Ox. For their
protection, they should have a key chain pendant of an Ox, or a Gold-plated
Chinese Animal protection Talisman of an Ox with them always in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Lastly, wishing all the Rats a
fantastic year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnS67tdbYOJ_PKD_9eB6CDOqs1HWH6hokcJO7e-rTJD4xheTa-8j0T7ufNVaSIlYGKUuwyzMKjbO7G5xB0nPaPZYOZeHhHzoz5W5eDQNcRk-d6BJaCb_5L8LEr1HfCQNn4XiWVnC65HiatdS0KMqHXoW4gEct-bJGKplCLl_3zoQLuGnJITx1PwZGeeE/s800/2-%20The%20Ox.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="769" data-original-width="800" height="616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnS67tdbYOJ_PKD_9eB6CDOqs1HWH6hokcJO7e-rTJD4xheTa-8j0T7ufNVaSIlYGKUuwyzMKjbO7G5xB0nPaPZYOZeHhHzoz5W5eDQNcRk-d6BJaCb_5L8LEr1HfCQNn4XiWVnC65HiatdS0KMqHXoW4gEct-bJGKplCLl_3zoQLuGnJITx1PwZGeeE/w640-h616/2-%20The%20Ox.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>2024 Predictions for
the O</b></span></span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>x</b></span><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2024 can bring a lot of change and
progress for any Oxen with a positive attitude and an action plan.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Ox in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Ox will need to keep an eye on
their health and wellbeing during the Dragon year however, as there is a risk
of the Ox neglecting their health and diet due to their busy lifestyle in 2024.
It can be very beneficial for the Ox to practice good eating habits and take
time out for exercise and meditation whenever possible.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Ox in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Oxen’s work life is auspicious
(positive) this year, including those looking to change career and those
looking for work in general; they can all look forward to exciting new
opportunities in their career during the Dragon year. This is particularly so,
for the Oxen who are trained in technology-based roles, as progression in
employment is forecast for the Oxen in 2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Ox in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Oxen’s finances are promising this
year and there will be many who will make successful investments, as well, a major
purchase such as buying a house in the Dragon year. The Oxen’s financial
success however will depend on their spending habits, as there is a risk of
overspending due to a careless approach to their expenditures (incurred costs).
They should take an apt time when making a large purchase in 2024, and if they
are pressed to make a hasty decision, it may be wiser to simply walk away.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Ox in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Oxen’s love life looks to be very
promising during the Dragon year, particularly so, for the unattached Oxen. This
is a great year for single Oxen to explore a partner with traits and interests
that they previously hadn’t considered, as this can elucidate them as to what
type of person they are considering for the long term.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">For the Oxen who are already in a
relationship, 2024 can bring plenty of joy and a relatively trouble-free year. All
the same, the Oxen needs to keep their partner timely apprised (informed) of any
new aspiration (goal) or activities, as this will circumvent (evade) any future
(potential) conflict. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and family life for the Ox in
2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Oxen’s social life will be the
highlight of their year, in 2024. The Oxen will have plenty opportunities to
take part in varied hobbies and interests, which in turn puts the Oxen in
contact with greater scope of people with akin pursuits (passions). It would be
prudent for the Oxen to stay within their budget however, (stick to a careful
and sensible approach to trips, activities, and equipment etc.) during their
participation in these social events, as they tend (inclined) to be over-generous
(get carried away) with their spending.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In the Dragon year, the Oxen’s
relationships with others will be harmonious, additionally, they may find
themselves rekindling old friendships with people from their past.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Ox in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Though the Ox will need to keep an eye
on their health and finances in 2024, they could still enjoy a rewarding and
successful year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Oxen are in affinity with the Rat,
protection hence, they should have a key chain pendant of a Rat, or a Gold-plated
Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rat with them in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing all the Oxen a fantastic year
of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQe7JkSD1LsaEE7cMGXITLyVDu46eEtY20XZ_paNcGzzMImUp9ICe7Um_JC4XYaojTC0CkmHQESzxyFJp3oINwnpBV8NpRC6HtNxBIe6eRaXmc2n6eNcu0IYSp3seyXBR7o63E-vPTZmzHH50-LGKcPUJNgjZLqb7ofmjKKaBCiKtyk2Dsoq5sUSHfI6o/s989/3-Tiger--1200_Final-Painting.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="989" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQe7JkSD1LsaEE7cMGXITLyVDu46eEtY20XZ_paNcGzzMImUp9ICe7Um_JC4XYaojTC0CkmHQESzxyFJp3oINwnpBV8NpRC6HtNxBIe6eRaXmc2n6eNcu0IYSp3seyXBR7o63E-vPTZmzHH50-LGKcPUJNgjZLqb7ofmjKKaBCiKtyk2Dsoq5sUSHfI6o/w518-h640/3-Tiger--1200_Final-Painting.jpg" width="518" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the Tige</span></b><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b>r</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b><br /></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2024 can be a very prosperous and
exciting year for the Tiger, although to get the most out of the next 12
months, the Tiger should avoid acting on impulse and be serene (composed) when
overseeing plans and decisions.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health prediction for the Tiger in
2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tigers’ health and wellbeing will be relatively
smooth sailing in the Dragon year, although it should be noted that any Tigers
with existing conditions should consider alternative therapies that could be
used alongside traditional medicine to provide further relief. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2024 being for the most part a busy year
for the Tiger, it is imperative they allot (set aside) some leisure time (when
necessary) for their personal wellbeing, stick to a good, sensible diet and more
importantly, exercise regularly to maintain fitness and good health.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Tiger in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The tiger’s career will go well in the
Dragon year with recognition and advancements predicted. Many Tigers will find
that their input is (recognized) appreciated and accepted in the workplace more
during 2024 and resultantly, they’ll be able to engender (deliver) great
results in their career which can then lead to a sure promotion.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those looking to change career and
those looking for employment in general during the Dragon year can benefit greatly
from maintaining a positive attitude as their efforts will be eventually met
with rewards. This is not a good year for the Tiger to idly sit back and hope
that something will appear in front of them; a proactive search will help
achieve results much faster.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Tiger in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tigers’ finances will turn out well in
2024, although this will depend on their ability to budget wisely and shun
(avoid) too many whim purchases. There is a risk of the Tiger overspending due
to impulse and carelessness; meanwhile, it would be advisable for the Tiger to
bide (take) their time and do a thorough research, before any large
transactions/purchases. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sensible Tiger
can accrue (save) a large sum this year and then put this money aside, for future
good use.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Tiger in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships and romance will play a
big part in the Tigers’ life during 2024, and both single and married
(committed to a relationship) Tigers can look forward to an enthusiastic
(exciting) time. Single Tigers can find significant love this year, although it
is important that they allow the relationship to progress at its natural pace
and avoid moving it too quickly as this could lead to the new relationship
burning out prematurely. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Tigers who are already in a
relationship or are married must (not be remiss/negligent) not let other
matters in their life take priority, but instead, dedicate some time and energy
to their (loved ones) better half.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and family life for the Tiger
in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragon year for the Tiger socially
will be an exciting one, as they have many events and trips to look forward to
throughout the year. Taking time out from their busy schedule will benefit the
Tiger (this could be a trip somewhere with friends or loved ones) not only with
exultation (joy) but help them to recharge their vigor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Tiger in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, 2024 will be a year in which
the Tiger will have to manage (prioritize and balance) their time well to preserve
good health (mental and physical), attain fun (merriment) and to achieve sure success
in all areas of their life.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Tigers are in affinity with the
Pig/Boar. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Pig,
or a Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Pig with them during
the Dragon year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing all the Tigers, a fantastic
year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrnS-g9-5ANUb8lhUMMfJff-PiVyAL3bboPTCR1lX1bvicDaawdR3XL-yZqzHGsbzb3e4ti7FIwFl7vU9syUDcQHTzcE0JgO97_aasnWgzJvEZuXRZ2VvFUwm0k4miK_VHwU09xBJvjXMWXCh-2GfgV-aIWThR8jHTv9FfjSX4VTKYGZuEN8jpF8HDcc/s952/4-Rabbit-2---1200_Final-Painting.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrnS-g9-5ANUb8lhUMMfJff-PiVyAL3bboPTCR1lX1bvicDaawdR3XL-yZqzHGsbzb3e4ti7FIwFl7vU9syUDcQHTzcE0JgO97_aasnWgzJvEZuXRZ2VvFUwm0k4miK_VHwU09xBJvjXMWXCh-2GfgV-aIWThR8jHTv9FfjSX4VTKYGZuEN8jpF8HDcc/w538-h640/4-Rabbit-2---1200_Final-Painting.jpg" width="538" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the </span></b></span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> Rabbit</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The year of the Dragon can be a mixed
year with highs and lows for the Rabbit if they are not careful, making this a
crucial year for the Rabbit to stay alert (vigilant) and motivated. 2024
meanwhile, could be a fantastic year (with incredible change) for the Rabbits with
positive attitude and those that are diligent towards their tasks and goals.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Rabbit in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rabbit will need to keep an eye on
their health and wellbeing during the year of the Dragon as there is a risk of
neglect resulting in future issues in 2024. This will be a fast-paced year for
the Rabbit and to avoid being spent (health being run down), they should
practice good eating (nutritional) habits and do moderate amount of exercise
throughout the year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Work and career for the Rabbit in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rabbits career overall (and the
existing projects that the Rabbit bring into the Dragon year) will go well in
2024; however, progress will be slow without dedication. To achieve the desired
results in the workplace, the Rabbit therefore, needs to put an extra effort (vigor)
into those new projects and goals. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those looking to change career and
those looking for employment in general during the Dragon year can benefit from
exploring new fields (such as a different industry) where their skills can be
put to a better use. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Rabbit in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rabbit will need to manage their
finances well in 2024 as they could end up losing money due to risky ventures, investments,
gambling, or plain old carelessness. It pays for the Rabbit to be diligent
(extra cautious) where finances are concerned this year; best seek professional
advice when necessary. If the Rabbit takes care and avoid risks, they can (avoid
disaster and still) make good use of their money.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships and the social life for
the Rabbit in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rabbits’ love life, married or
single, will go well this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Rabbits will have a very active social life in the Dragon year; furthermore,
they may face (encounter) various new situations and experiences that could
bring a lot of bliss (harmony, happiness and ecstasy) into their life.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Single Rabbits can look forward to
exciting opportunities for meeting a new partner and attaining a lasting
relationship with that special someone in the Dragon year. The Rabbit who’s
looking to settle down, would be wise to think about what they want out of a
partner as this will allow them to avoid wasting their time on the incompatible
(inapt) mate.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Married rabbit’s home life will be
propitious and fulfilling; furthermore, there will be many who reach
significant milestones with their life-partner or spouse during 2024. This is a
great time for the Rabbit to arrange events and trips with their loved ones (close
family members) as this will help strengthen the relationship bonds and create delightful
memories. Moreover, if finances and time allow it, additional benefits can be had
from learning (collaborative) new skills and hobbies.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Rabbit in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">All in all, this could be a propitious
(favorable) year for the Rabbit, provided they direct some care and attention
to certain areas of their life during the Dragon year: such as avoid rushing
into financial decisions and keeping an eye on their health and wellbeing. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Rabbits are in affinity with the
Dog. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Dog, or a Gold-plated
Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Dog with them always in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finally, wishing all the Rabbits, a
fantastic year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZV0fSDS-nSnEAqLq2b8Zw9NIhSppJfuSeD2C_cKKsg6p09SR67keTmPaClKltM7iReEs0RXt31AQmdu5F-hbSJUe5m7Y0mJtuvUAzxHtY3wwBcxPtOqOw6LnbuG4jUm8mvwfUfjdMvdU67LCXmaznjwPdEQFlPzYz5AZeiuAjV54Njik2DP0fiT_NWY/s800/5-Dragon-2-1200_final-Painting-good-one.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZV0fSDS-nSnEAqLq2b8Zw9NIhSppJfuSeD2C_cKKsg6p09SR67keTmPaClKltM7iReEs0RXt31AQmdu5F-hbSJUe5m7Y0mJtuvUAzxHtY3wwBcxPtOqOw6LnbuG4jUm8mvwfUfjdMvdU67LCXmaznjwPdEQFlPzYz5AZeiuAjV54Njik2DP0fiT_NWY/w640-h400/5-Dragon-2-1200_final-Painting-good-one.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the </span></b></span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> Dragon</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragons can expect steady progress
and ample reward in 2024. Dragons staunch (firm) determination and positive
outlook will serve them well this year; moreover, those who prepare early will reap
excellent results from their efforts.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Dragon in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2024 will be a busy year for the
Dragon and while there is nothing major to worry about health wise, it always
pays to take preventative measures such as maintaining good eating habits and
getting regular exercise whenever possible.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Dragon in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragons career can be the
highlight of their year in 2024, anything from being simply appreciated
(valued) to impendent promotions. The Dragons should find that, in contrast to
the hurdles they’d faced in previous years, they are now able to work with things
going smoothly and lot more efficiently; moreover, those who prepare and set goals
for this year well in advance, (earlier on) should promptly reap the rewards.
One area that will require care in the Dragons work life nonetheless, will be
the paperwork; make sure to double check contracts, terms, accounts and in general,
bookkeeping, to avoid probable mistakes.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those who are wishing to change career
or gain new employment can benefit from having good luck in their search in
2024. The Dragon must be actively assiduous (tenacious, meticulous) in their hunt
however, so as not to miss any good opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Dragon in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragons finances will be propitious
this year; their money (funds, savings, assets etc.) with careful planning and attention
can be put to good use with investments and purchases. Before any transaction
the Dragon should take the time to research best price and options though, as
this can help save them a large sum of money when making a significant (huge)
purchase in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Dragon in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragon’s love life in general,
will go well in 2024. Those who are in a relationship should see their
affection (affiliation, love) moving forward in the right direction. There will
be some Dragons whose relationship will terminate (come to an end) this year;
even so, this may not be an entirely bad thing, as this will allow them to focus
on their personal wellbeing and find a more suitable (compatible) new love. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This is also an auspicious
(favorable) time for any single and unattached Dragons who are looking for an
enduring relationship and there will be many who will meet that desirable companion
this year. Meanwhile, the Dragon can increase their chances of finding a suitable
mate in 2024 by remaining socially active, as they can be put in touch with a
potential partner through an existing friend or family this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and domestic life for the
Dragon in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragon can look forward to profuse
social events and copious new opportunities (new acquaintances/relationships);
furthermore, this will be a great year for strengthening existing relationships.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragons home life will be
particularly promising one this year; naturally, this will be a highlight in
many Dragons’ lives. Family, and domestic life in general, can bring abundant bliss
to the Dragon, hence, they should balance their schedule to make sure that they
have plentiful time to take advantage of this. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This is a great year for the Dragon to
acquire (learn) new skills and if they had something they’d secretly longed to
try their hand at, 2024 is certainly the time to begin (jump in).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Dragon in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, this will be a fantastic year
for the Dragon with great promise of progression and rewards; and by managing
their time well, they can guarantee (make certain) this be a fruitful and exuberant
(vivacious) 2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragons are in affinity with the
Rooster. Dragons should, therefore, keep a key chain pendant of a Rooster or a
Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rooster with them all during
the year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wishing all the Dragons, a fantastic 2024.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEtLGhzudV4UjHER25wlK5cqf-0dFJARFp5Y7RJxZn6W7AiVcpHi12Na8YWIlBlTJEtoU-9T6iipKdWGRdCUT3HqSTIUFrvp9cDP5G6rUPiDJkij31llmTEcdJtYPXO-k-FxqX6OgiKTP4iUOL_G2uuQPwZXjfA50QnmIxkgA2_nEiTnh1Sm5JoR4LQE/s800/6-Snake-1200_Final-Painting.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="800" height="548" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEtLGhzudV4UjHER25wlK5cqf-0dFJARFp5Y7RJxZn6W7AiVcpHi12Na8YWIlBlTJEtoU-9T6iipKdWGRdCUT3HqSTIUFrvp9cDP5G6rUPiDJkij31llmTEcdJtYPXO-k-FxqX6OgiKTP4iUOL_G2uuQPwZXjfA50QnmIxkgA2_nEiTnh1Sm5JoR4LQE/w640-h548/6-Snake-1200_Final-Painting.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the Snake</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragon year will be a great year
for the Snake; however, their success and enjoyment during the next twelve months
will depend on their ability to work hard, focus on the task at hand, and
follow through with their ideas and plans. There could be some distractions for
the Snake in 2024 during which time they must stay focused and consider their options
wisely.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Snake in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2024 will be a demanding (particularly
busy) year for the Snake; therefore, to reduce the resultant stress, they
should dedicate some time to their mental wellbeing and ensure that they are in
their best form to deal with anything that comes their way. The Snake may also
benefit from preventative measures and, whenever they can, engage in low impact
exercise, meditation or partake in joyful activities during the Dragon year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Snake in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Snakes work life will go rather
well and those who are well established in their career may find themselves (due
to previous efforts on the Snakes part and their interactions with those in a
higher position) in a new role or promoted. Those with a career in finance and
investment should apply caution when making decisions however, as it can be
easy to be remiss (miss something) and make a mistake during 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Snakes who are looking to change
careers and those looking for work in general in 2024, will have plenty of opportunities
to enter a new position. The Snake should be open to different and short-term employment
though, as this can lead to something more promising arrangement (title, status)
in the future.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Snake in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Snakes finances will be promising
overall, although the balance at the end of the fiscal year will depend on their
budgeting skills and thorough perusal of documents/paperwork. The Snake should
remember to shop around when making large purchases in 2024 as this will help
avoid overspending and save a nice sum to be put aside to be used in other
areas of their life. Better to avoid haste and be vigilant with paperwork
before finalizing any large acquisition (such as a house or car), as important
information could easily be missed with costly (dire) consequence to the Snake.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Snake in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Snakes love life will go well in
2024, although they must make sure not to neglect their significant other as
this could lead to arguments or worse, if the Snake is not careful this year.
It would be wise for the Snake to dedicate a good amount of time to their partner
throughout the year, as this will help keep the relationship strong (solidify
the relationship) and moving forward in the right direction.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Single (unattached) Snakes can look
forward to a promising love life if they are open to finding a partner. Those
who prioritize other areas of their life may miss opportunities for finding
true love and would be wise to keep a look out for that special someone in an
unexpected place. Finally, do not discount chance, as it could play a big part
in the Snake’s love life in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and family life for the Snake
in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The snake’s social life will be a busy
one this year and while it may seem a good option to cancel plans with friends
and loved ones for something new or (perceived as more exiting and) more
important, the Snake should try to avoid doing this too often as this could
lead to disagreements with those close to him. The Snakes needs to manage their
time well this year and try incorporating their friends and loved ones into sundry
(varied, diverse) areas of their life.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Snake’s home life will go well in
the Dragon year, although much like their social life, they will need to
dedicate time to their intimate family and do more tasks around the house. The
Snake can benefit from taking a trip with their loved ones this year as this
will be welcomed by all and provide the Snakes some valuable downtime in their
hectic schedule.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Snakes are in affinity with the
Monkey. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Monkey,
or a Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Monkey with them
always.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Snake in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, the year of the Dragon will
be a very busy year for the Snake and for those who can balance their time
well, this can be a fruitful and enjoyable time. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing all the Snakes, a fantastic
year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGfAEur1L5rnd3sbs5hyphenhyphenAWPckzb8_cBOBA-jw4ZG9RGyrtRhKocZAjz_fUsWfsDP-QBgZRGKaKmt6ThkokxbnGgAZq2QDtpT6dHe9YgNtuXtYoyiA3bGqyNKZSTaeDSOEh1UtbO4BZm1Ma5poBlmFYzr5K_Wb8Zmfp8cqpgXb78ntfQoAI92LlgU4sCI/s1063/7-Horse-2-1200_Final-Painting_SaturationVery-good-one.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGfAEur1L5rnd3sbs5hyphenhyphenAWPckzb8_cBOBA-jw4ZG9RGyrtRhKocZAjz_fUsWfsDP-QBgZRGKaKmt6ThkokxbnGgAZq2QDtpT6dHe9YgNtuXtYoyiA3bGqyNKZSTaeDSOEh1UtbO4BZm1Ma5poBlmFYzr5K_Wb8Zmfp8cqpgXb78ntfQoAI92LlgU4sCI/w482-h640/7-Horse-2-1200_Final-Painting_SaturationVery-good-one.jpg" width="482" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the Horse</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The year of the Dragon could be a
mixed year for the Horse with some challenges predicted in certain areas of their
life. If the Horse maintains calm and positive attitude however, they can
minimize or eradicate most of the problems and disputes that may arise in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Horse in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Horse can look forward to overall good
health this year; nevertheless, it’s best to adopt good diet and exercise habits
early on, as this will prevent the Horse from feeling run down and to escape
minor illnesses in more hectic months in 2024. The Horses who have been a long-term
smokers should try quitting it this year, therefore, enjoy the positive
difference in their health and well being in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Horse in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Horses work life will go well in
the Dragon year. When at work, the Horse should avoid haste however, as this most
likely lead to bad results and take far longer time to correct (fix) it. For Horses
who are meticulous and avoid short cuts, could expect apt recognition for their
efforts in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those looking to change career and
those seeking employment in general, will find a stable position in a good company
this year. Be that as it may, avoid taking shortcuts and if something seems too
good to be true, approach it with caution.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Horse in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">If the Horse is not careful, rushing
into any new ventures and opportunities could result in losses. It is imperative
therefore that the Horse does not hasten into anything where finances are
concerned; due diligence and research will go a long way in preventing the
Horse from making costly mistakes and instead, allow them to make the most of
their investments (money) in 2024. Moreover, the Horse can make good use of
their money by setting up a saving plan this year, this is especially so for
younger Horses, for it will pave the way for future wealth.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Horse in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Horses love-life will go well this
year and there will be many Horses who take their relationship to the next level
in 2024. It is important nevertheless, to take the time to consider what they
want in long term from their partner and to adjust accordingly.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Single (unattached) Horses can also
look forward to an auspicious luck in their love life in 2024, and from the
start, take into consideration how they want their relationship to progress. Those
who are aspiring for a long-term love relationship, can actively seek a partner
but not rush into it or settle for a quick result.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and family life for the Horse
in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Horse will have a gratifying sociable
year with lots of events to look forward to with friends and family. Both
single and married Horses will attain plenty of joy from their home life,
meanwhile, their family members will be a great source of help and support in
2024. Now ordinarily, the Horse is a very caring and helpful (nurturing) person
by nature, but they should remember that while they are happy to help others,
they should in return get some of the necessary positive feedback for their
overall well being. It can be hard to detect when someone is (in dire
straights) struggling; subsequently, it is important that the Horse asks for
help when it is needed, as acting solitary can sometimes be overwhelming.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Horse in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, 2024 will be a successful
year for the Horse provided they can approach things with care and attention.
Shortcuts can prove time consuming in the long run and haste can lead to
mistakes, so best take things at a gradual pace and take care.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Horses are in affinity with the
Sheep/Goat; for their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Sheep/Goat,
or a Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Monkey with them always.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing the Horses, a fantastic year
of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqS1tTH5cawEynomXELjL_eabWLDWICmsq6Vr29U6GXe-sEA3keFvbDOyOnjnNGimHe_QqNfyTyHcptSyStHxRHVAopVABYDW2B-aNn0PG9SWmCAw_cnA0FWudauUGHreTgVF6GOQzZNRWMKvhYURqWGeiHzyreAYwaeDGhyEV_G2uodWrq2bv8yIgJx4/s809/8-%20Goat-Ship.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqS1tTH5cawEynomXELjL_eabWLDWICmsq6Vr29U6GXe-sEA3keFvbDOyOnjnNGimHe_QqNfyTyHcptSyStHxRHVAopVABYDW2B-aNn0PG9SWmCAw_cnA0FWudauUGHreTgVF6GOQzZNRWMKvhYURqWGeiHzyreAYwaeDGhyEV_G2uodWrq2bv8yIgJx4/w632-h640/8-%20Goat-Ship.jpg" width="632" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the Goat/Sheep</span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The year of the Dragon will be an auspicious
one (with advancements in career and finances) for the Goat/Sheep. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Goat in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Goats/Sheep will have a busy Dragon
year, and resultant (consequent) of hectic lifestyle, they are more likely to often
eat convenience (take-out) food, that could lead to weight gain and health
issues later. They should therefore practice good dietary (nutritional) habits and
exercise regularly throughout 2024.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Goat in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Goat will have a busy and
productive work life in the year of the Dragon and there will be many who will
achieve an elevated position or being given extra responsibilities in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Goat in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Goats finances will be very
promising in Dragon year; many through their effort in the workplace will see
an increase in income, which will help the Goat to get through 2024 with far less
financial stress. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Goats’ money will be put to good
use this year; nonetheless, it would wise to set aside small amount for a rainy
day and towards future big purchases. Meanwhile, any impulse buying should be
avoided, as it could lead to overspending. A prudent (sensible) thing would be
to have a thorough research and seek financial advice (when warranted) before concluding
(clinching) any transaction or acquiring a large item, to avoid wasting a great
deal of time and money.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships (Social and family life)
for the Goat in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Goats love-life will generally be smooth
(placid, easy-going), and they can look forward to an enjoyable (gratifying) time
with their partner, provided that is, there are no pre-existing issues when
they’d entered 2024. Meanwhile, the Goat can get a lot of satisfaction from
their spouse (mate) in the Dragon year and should include their significant
other in their plans whenever possible.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Goats/Sheep may need to remain
flexible with plans with their family, especially since unexpected things could
abruptly occur (crop up). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Additionally,
they may need to gain (attain) various new skills and interests, that might be
helpful in accomplishing a lot more (necessary bunch of things) around the
house during 2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Single (unattached) Goats will also be
plenty busy with friends and loved ones this year, which will ease stress in
other areas of their life. There will be ample opportunities for them to meet
new people (being easier to relate to others), as well, find love during 2024.
Best to remain vigilant in detecting any signs of flirting or an interest from
someone new, and then, allow the new relationship to grow at a natural pace
(avoid rushing things along) this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This is also a great year for the (married
or single) Goat to reconnect with past friends and loved ones, leading to old
friendships being mended and revitalized. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Goat/Sheep in
2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, this will be a great year for
the Goat and one where they can make advancements in all areas of their life.
There will be many who see an increase in finances this year, although it would
be wise for all Goats to budget wisely in 2024, to make sure their money goes
further. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Goats are in affinity with the
Horse. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Horse,
or a Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Horse with them always.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing The Goats, a fantastic year of
the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysT4GbH97XPM2ANGUCp2gzQieW78YJriblMysSO20Z2QKo7L7Aul2nDPAxRdrwGUSEK5y2yl_6CLSV0tCy096Un7jmFqqPchspp_xndXeijIixhD_qEtnrkAVsCQyRiT7s1nMugBd_Ujrxm9VoNc8BX1Ji9EkzwYGd_BiXsAqz8Dp8VNoT04QRhoG8II/s1023/9-%20The%20Monkey.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysT4GbH97XPM2ANGUCp2gzQieW78YJriblMysSO20Z2QKo7L7Aul2nDPAxRdrwGUSEK5y2yl_6CLSV0tCy096Un7jmFqqPchspp_xndXeijIixhD_qEtnrkAVsCQyRiT7s1nMugBd_Ujrxm9VoNc8BX1Ji9EkzwYGd_BiXsAqz8Dp8VNoT04QRhoG8II/w500-h640/9-%20The%20Monkey.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the Monkey</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The year of the Dragon can be a great
year for the Monkey, and they can enjoy success in career, finances,
relationships etc. in 2024 provided they put in the necessary effort (when
warranted) towards achieving their goal.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Monkey in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Monkeys overall health will be auspicious
this year and there is nothing bad predicted; although this being a busy year, they
should practice sensible eating habits and do regular exercise to maintain good
health during the Dragon year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Monkey in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Monkey can make progress in their
career if they dedicate time and energy into it, meanwhile, making sure their
acquired (learnt) skills are up to date. The Monkeys work life can move at a
slow pace if they simply sit back and wait for something to happen. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Monkeys can also derive full benefit
from putting themselves forward (in their workplace) for new projects. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those looking to change career and
those seeking employment in general can find themselves in a good position this
year, although inserting a positive mindset into their extra effort in their
search would be highly beneficial.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Monkey in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Monkey should take care and remain
cautious when dealing with their finances in the Dragon year as there is a real
risk of loss. 2024 is not the best time for the Monkey to spend frivolously;
instead of making too many impulse purchases, they should put aside some
(funds) money. Moreover, when making large purchases this year, the Monkey
would be wise to seek financial advice, when necessary, as this will help avoid
costly mistakes.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Monkey in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships are looking to be a high
point in the year of the Dragon for the Monkey, and they can look forward to
smooth-sailing good times with their partner, provided there are no existing
conflicts in the relationship. The Monkey should, therefore, resolve any major
issues before entering the year of the Dragon. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and family life for the Monkey
in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Monkeys social life will bring them
lot of joy, with many reconnecting with old friends and loved ones during 2024.
The Monkey should allot (set aside) ample time to staying in touch with their current
friends as it can help the Monkey resolve some major issues, as well, provide
plenty motivation and fun over the next twelve months.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Monkeys home life can also bring
them lots of happiness; the family and loved ones at home will help keep them
in a positive mindset and spur them on to do their utmost throughout the year
of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Monkey in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, the Monkey will have to work
harder than usual to achieve the desired result in 2024, although, if they are
able to focus on the important things in life, dedicate apt effort and energy
towards attaining their key goals, by the Dragon year’s end they should enjoy laudable
victories. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Monkeys are in affinity with the
Snake. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Snake,
or a Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Snake with them always.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing all the Monkeys, a fantastic
year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0_ZJZd_CQBVY1jmQ4N8ECRrEHfBDJosEHqEWxBeDgXMtRY1FJtcqg_MMtm3RP5gZ4-TPINHpUQ8MaQE4fcjhyphenhyphenDHvesa03rP0kZzTRg7gd7FiW3WkDtZXnugQBFue1ltCWkhmnYhIcR68SYJZ0agLLvWfnw8K9wdsgDzZt7mtuuqI91KEbFYLbmf1tB4/s848/10-Rooster-1-1200_Final-Painting.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="848" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0_ZJZd_CQBVY1jmQ4N8ECRrEHfBDJosEHqEWxBeDgXMtRY1FJtcqg_MMtm3RP5gZ4-TPINHpUQ8MaQE4fcjhyphenhyphenDHvesa03rP0kZzTRg7gd7FiW3WkDtZXnugQBFue1ltCWkhmnYhIcR68SYJZ0agLLvWfnw8K9wdsgDzZt7mtuuqI91KEbFYLbmf1tB4/w604-h640/10-Rooster-1-1200_Final-Painting.jpg" width="604" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2024 Predictions for
the Rooster</span></b><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2024 will be fantastic, eventful year
for the Rooster with lots going on over the next twelve months; with the
Roosters natural passion and drive, they are destined for great heights.
Roosters keep in mind, this being a particularly busy time, they need to find a
good balance to enjoy everything that comes their way. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In 2024, while luck is on Roosters
side, difficulties may arise from time to time, when that happens, Rooster
should approach them decisively and confidently as they can easily be overcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moreover, they should maintain that positive
outlook and put in a genuine effort towards their goals. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Rooster in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It is important that the Rooster takes
care of their health and mental wellbeing during the Dragon year as they may
find themselves overdoing it in different aspects of their life, which can then
leave to them feeling rundown and suffering from minor bugs. Getting plenty of
rest, eating well, and staying active (by taking up walking, trying new
exercise or anything that is different from what they had been doing) will help
the Rooster to maintain good physical and mental health, as well, to focus on
their goals this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This is also a good time for the
Rooster, to learn how to meditate or simply, relax. Even though the year is
propitious, Rooster should reserve time, to pampering self and freeing their
mind from needless worry, particularly during those rare but likely (potential)
down times.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Rooster in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those Roosters looking to change career,
or a job can benefit from luck and their positive attitude during the year of
the Dragon. The Rooster can look forward to advancements and new opportunities becoming
available to them in the workplace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
can receive a lot of valuable guidance/advice and good help from co-workers
during 2024, provided they humbly ask it when it is needed. Meanwhile, there
will be many Roosters who will embark on that coveted, long-term positions in
2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The unemployed Rooster looking for a
job in general, can boost their chances of finding and landing that solid
position, by simply making their intentions known to friends, family etc., and,
with their widescale, diligent search. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Rooster in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Roosters finances will go well in
2024 and they will be able to put their money to good use when making purchases
and investments this year. It always pays to be diligent (careful) however, so do
your research (investigate) and evaluate (gage) all options before the final
transaction of any major acquisitions (procurements) this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships, social and family life
for the Rooster in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Roosters social life all in all
will go well in 2024 and they will regularly be included in group activities
and events. During the Dragon year the Roosters will enjoy partying with
friends and loved ones, in which time they will be able to help a lot of people
with good advice and support. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Single (unattached) Roosters who are
looking for love, if they are socially active, can look forward to a strong, propitious
(auspicious) luck during the year of the Dragon; also, by going to clubs and
searching through dating apps (as this will help improve their chances a great
deal), they can meet that special someone or find a suitable new partner with far
less effort than last year. What’s more, there will be many Roosters who take
significant steps in their relationship during 2024 by moving in together or
getting married.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those Roosters that are already in a (solid)
relationship, things will go well for them in 2024, provided they include their
partner in all their plans in this hectic year. The Roosters will enjoy a
tranquil home life, during which time they will be able to provide ample bliss
(pleasure) and support to their family. The Roosters can also benefit from
making home improvements around the house this year and should find that
projects seem to go smoothly in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Rooster in
2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, 2024 will be a fantastic year
for the Rooster and one where they can accomplish a lot and enjoy what the year
brings into their life. Roosters should make sure however, to keep an eye on their
health and wellbeing during this typically busy Dragon year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Roosters are in affinity with the
Dragon. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Dragon,
or a Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Dragon with them always.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing all the Roosters a fantastic
year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQt6M7z53y-X92KsJHVdzFWVcH8KoqVv7Lzz5JVlLwKCq8a5reo4hvITowGQaxVoICYsa9xAlMv85qQ-W-t1iac2TRjSjSqEO92W8atMLc9vyfFhK415SxVYDZ-iYvQ1ql8pXKVplEiyvZLyqz27OfnZB1NxBKPI3_qnrU09HpNawwaLuQ1xCFXluu-8/s800/11-%20The%20Dog.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="800" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQt6M7z53y-X92KsJHVdzFWVcH8KoqVv7Lzz5JVlLwKCq8a5reo4hvITowGQaxVoICYsa9xAlMv85qQ-W-t1iac2TRjSjSqEO92W8atMLc9vyfFhK415SxVYDZ-iYvQ1ql8pXKVplEiyvZLyqz27OfnZB1NxBKPI3_qnrU09HpNawwaLuQ1xCFXluu-8/w640-h484/11-%20The%20Dog.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>2024 Predictions for
the Dog</b></span><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dog is the conflict animal with
Dragon, however, when the Dog is aware of potential issues before they manifest
and deal with it, they can still have a pretty good year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Dog in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dog should practise good health habits,
such as eat well (nutritional foods) and get regular exercise in 2024. This
will keep them in good shape and prevent illnesses during the year. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any Dogs with a pre-existing condition can
benefit from researching it this year (as this could lead them on a new path)
and they could, therefore, manage their ailment (disorder) better.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Dog in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dogs work life at times may be
quite hectic this year; therefore, to avoid stress and to stay on top of things,
they should direct their key focus on those major issues and tasks. For many
Dogs, their previous years’ efforts may also start bringing results this year,
which would lead to promotion and added responsibilities.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those looking to change career and
those looking for employment in general can, without difficulty, achieve
desired results this year; however, beneficial outcome would depend on
their<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>good communicational skills and
being active (persistence) on recruitment websites. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Dog in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dog should be cautious with their
finances during the year of the Dragon, as investments can bring risks. If
uncertain, the Dog can always seek professional advice before concluding any
large transaction; meanwhile, it is a favorable year for the Dog to be
charitable and make donations to any worthy cause. Good deeds will bring
positive returns.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships, social and family life
for the Dog in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Dragon year presents an excellent
opportunity for the single (unattached) Dogs to find true love (romance)
provided they are diligent in their search, go on dating apps and make sure they
let their intentions be known to friends and loved ones. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Dog who is looking (for long term
relationship) to settle down, should efficaciously (effectively) communicate their
future hopes and dreams when they come across that special someone, in the
meantime, ascertaining that they both have akin goals (aspirations). <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The married Dogs overall love life
will be propitious (favorable), provided there are no other areas of their life
bringing conflict into the relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Dog as a rule should avoid arguments with their partner (loved one)
in 2024 and try to resolve any tiff (spat, dispute) before it gets out of hand
this year. The Dogs home life will be auspicious in the Dragon year so long as
they competently manage (and budget well) their outgoings and projects. Maintaining
good communication with the other inhabitants (residents) of home in 2024
meanwhile, will provide the Dog plenty of joy and harmony.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Both single and married Dogs can get a
lot of help and support from close friends and family during the Dragon year;
therefore, the Dog without reserve should communicate his/her inner worries and
plans to them. This can help the Dog resolve most of his/her pesky problems in
the Dragon year. The Dogs should also earmark (allocate) ample time for their
friends this year, as this will help bring joy and calm into their life.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall summary for the Dog in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, the Dogs will have to exercise
caution in various areas of their life to avoid problems from materializing this
year. If they can adapt good communication skills, they can effectively avoid a
lot of potential issues from resurfacing and instead, enjoy a peaceful and
rather contented year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Dogs are in affinity with the Rabbit.
For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Rabbit, or a
Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rabbit with them always.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wishing all the Dogs, a fantastic year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVgMYev8eE2f3WnyIkYECZuEaH5vPo7FUmHs6FcnYiieRkeETPKWNuIZLahQMUzzE_Q2-P9DkjIQiux8TNPzSHGmZGT3WzFZVoK4KXTahkxZA2F7yeRAL6FeY7H4UbNpM99dtppI2SPQLXL7eP1ADVlXGftitWeb6768RnMUvG9cFwkK25VtJOvGYixY0/s800/12-%20The%20Pig.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="800" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVgMYev8eE2f3WnyIkYECZuEaH5vPo7FUmHs6FcnYiieRkeETPKWNuIZLahQMUzzE_Q2-P9DkjIQiux8TNPzSHGmZGT3WzFZVoK4KXTahkxZA2F7yeRAL6FeY7H4UbNpM99dtppI2SPQLXL7eP1ADVlXGftitWeb6768RnMUvG9cFwkK25VtJOvGYixY0/w640-h490/12-%20The%20Pig.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>2024 Predictions for
the Pig</b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The year of the Dragon will bring some
obstacles for the Pig this year; however, by being aware of these potential
risks, they can take apt measures and avoid them, as well, achieve great things
in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Health for the Pig in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Pig should pay particular attention
to their health and wellbeing this year, by practicing sensible diet and
getting plenty of exercise and meditation. Any Pigs who are sedentary most of
the day and frequently enjoy fast food, would be advised to consider salubrious
(healthy, wholesome) alternatives, such as meal plans, to evade any weight
related issues.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Work and career for the Pig in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Pig will have a propitious work
life this year; furthermore, they can derive benefit from their previous’ years
efforts to further their goals in 2024. It’s advisable for the Pig however, to scrutinize
well (double check) all the contracts and paperwork before their final
submission, to avoid any undetected errors.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pigs who work in a dangerous job would
be wise to take extra precautions during the Dragon year and look to upgrade
safety equipment if it is outdated.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Those Pigs looking to change career
and those looking for employment in general, can look forward to good
opportunities this year; although, they must be vigilant and thoroughly
scrutinize (inspect, analyse) any contracts before rendering their final
decision.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Finances for the Pig in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Pigs finances will be a promising
one this year, and they will find that they can put their money to good use.
Pigs wishing to increase their wealth, should be on the lookout for great opportunities
during 2024 and when they do arise take apt advantage (jump in). In the
meantime, it is always wise to set aside money for any unexpected expense that
may arise during the year of the Dragon. Also, remember to be cautious when
signing any contracts and it is always a good idea to have a trusted loved one
or a professional double-check the terms before the final commitment.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Relationships for the Pig in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Pigs love life will be propitious
one this year and they can strengthen their existing relationship during the
year of the Dragon by listening to their partner and including their opinion before
making decisions. Happily, married Pigs (or those living with significant
other) can expect a relatively trouble-free home life and, they can greatly
benefit from going on a trip or planning several fun activities during 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Single (unattached) Pigs will also have
an auspicious luck this year; some may even find love in somewhere unexpected.
There will be few Pigs who find romance in the Dragon year with someone they had
previously deemed (considered as) a close friend. Any Pigs who tend to spend a
lot of time on their own can benefit from looking into clubs or teams where
they can meet akin (alike) people. This is a great year for the Pig to travel
if time and finances allow it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Social and family life for the Pig in
2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Pigs social life will be a
highlight of their year in 2024 with them taking part in numerous pleasurable
(joyous) events and activities with friends and loved ones. The Pigs can
benefit from joint endeavors (occasions) this year and should not shy away
from planning sundry, rather cool (exciting) parties (merriments, celebrations).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Overall summary for the Pig in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Overall, the Pigs can look forward to
a great year in 2024 provided they pay attention to their health and be wary when
handling paperwork and contracts; heedful (vigilant) measures will help the Pig
to avoid many issues in 2024. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pigs are in affinity with the Tiger.
For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Tiger, or a
Gold-plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Tiger with them always.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wishing all the Pigs, a fantastic year
of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Best Wishes to all from BoSt.</span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-86170608885816865062023-08-04T00:19:00.002-04:002023-08-04T00:19:34.375-04:00BoSt Notable Inklings: The Peony Prince<a href="https://notablepressings.blogspot.com/2015/07/the-peony-prince.html?spref=bl">BoSt Notable Inklings: The Peony Prince</a>: The Peony Prince Story by BoSt Prickly’s travels took him far and wide. Eventually he crossed the ocean and, disembark...Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-66603646798292747322022-03-06T23:20:00.002-05:002022-03-06T23:25:00.409-05:00The Courageous Koi at Dragon's Gate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn6elcCMtfQ/UdCM5_VWmOI/AAAAAAAACCQ/HHQlPq1bIUc/s800/Pond-Carp.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn6elcCMtfQ/UdCM5_VWmOI/AAAAAAAACCQ/HHQlPq1bIUc/s1600/Pond-Carp.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Courageous Koi at Dragon’s Gate</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br />In China they tell the story of the Yellow Emperor, who became so angry at the wickedness of the humans that he decided to end their existence. Summoning the God of Rain, he commanded that the rain should never stop until the entire Earth was covered in water and all but a few of the offensive humans were all drowned. So began a Great Flood and every day the floodwaters rose until only the highest mountains were left. The Yellow Emperor’s grandson, Kun, managed to make a few safe havens with some stolen magic mud, but his supply ran out and the rains kept on falling. The Emperor’s anger had not yet abated and, for his disobedience, Kun was executed by the God of Fire.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">River by Sandra buy here: <a href="http://sandara.deviantart.com/art/river-282659319">http://sandara.deviantart.com/art/river-282659319</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Kun’s son, Yu, was a golden yellow dragon, strong and beautiful, and he took up the task of saving humanity from the Great Flood. Yu spoke respectfully to the Emperor and described the suffering he had seen amongst the humans. His words softened the Yellow Emperor’s heart and he gave the golden dragon, Yu, the position of the new rain god. He also gave Yu enough magic mud to soak up all the water as well as the assistance of a Magic Tortoise to carry it for him.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ4UfZN8IGk/UdCVJFERiZI/AAAAAAAACDE/hp2aGoI15vw/s1208/river_dragon_by_Collette-J-Ellis.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ4UfZN8IGk/UdCVJFERiZI/AAAAAAAACDE/hp2aGoI15vw/s640/river_dragon_by_Collette-J-Ellis.jpg" width="423" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yu’s mighty Dragon Breath easily dispersed the storm clouds and deposed the old Rain God, who had revelled in making ceaseless rain. Once the last drop had fallen, Yu and the Magic Tortoise travelled the Earth dispensing magic mud and creating solid land once more until all the mud on the Tortoise’s back had been used.<br />Then, so that the rain would have a place to go, Yu created the rivers with swipes from his powerful tail. As Yu was digging the course of what was to become the Yellow River in the north he came across a place where some rocky cliffs blocked the flow of the water. Yu pondered for a moment then, with calculated ferocity, he directed one mighty blow from his tail at the cliffs, cutting a chasm through the hard rock. “I name this place ‘Dragon’s Gate’ and from this day forward it shall be sacred to Dragons.”<br />This was the origin of the great rivers that flow across China to this day.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8JcafAdt90/UdCK3_b1oUI/AAAAAAAACAo/WieDNvthghc/s600/Koi_Dragon_by_Hbruton.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8JcafAdt90/UdCK3_b1oUI/AAAAAAAACAo/WieDNvthghc/s1600/Koi_Dragon_by_Hbruton.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Koi Dragon by Heather Bruton - buy here:<a href="http://hbruton.deviantart.com/art/Koi-Dragon-115108345">http://hbruton.deviantart.com/art/Koi-Dragon-115108345</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Seeing the new land, ready for planting, the people left their caves in the mountains and ventured down onto the fertile plains. In their gratitude they begged Yu to become their Emperor. Thus Yu, the Golden Dragon, became a Man-God and lived a long lifetime on the Earth, almost as long as he would have lived had he stayed as a Dragon. Under his guidance mankind grew knowledgeable in following the ways of Heaven and gained favour in the eyes of the Yellow Emperor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dragon Emperor Yu is still honoured and remembered at the rapids of Dragon’s Gate on the Yellow River and the location still retains a touch of the magic it had at the beginning of time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />A certain type of carp, called a koi, gains their strength by swimming against the current. Not for the koi are the soft lives living in still ponds, for they seek out and revel in adversity. Thousands of years ago, before writing was invented in China, a huge school of thousands of koi swam up the Yellow River until they reached Dragon’s Gate. Most of the school grew discouraged seeing the roiling water and feeling the strong current that stood against them, and so they went back downstream to feast in the quiet waters of the lower river, leaving a small group of 360 stalwarts behind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Leaping higher and higher, swimming faster and faster, each koi strained to reach the top of the falls, only to be swept back by the power of the water in the chasm. Their splashing drew the attention of sadistic demons that lived nearby who maliciously increased the height of the falls even more. Undeterred, the koi continued their attempts over the next hundred years, growing stronger and stronger with each failure until one single koi made a heroic leap and cleared the chasm.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gBNHHPZM-94/UdCK6m03JWI/AAAAAAAACA0/UmOk55Y79gA/s987/Koi_Dragon_by_dvampyrelestat.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gBNHHPZM-94/UdCK6m03JWI/AAAAAAAACA0/UmOk55Y79gA/s400/Koi_Dragon_by_dvampyrelestat.jpg" width="364" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As he sailed through the air on his way over the water the Gods looked down with approval and transformed the flying fish into a shining golden dragon in the middle of his leap. The former carp was now a Dragon, the spitting image of Yu, the creator of Dragon’s Gate, himself. Flapping his new wings he continued upwards until he reached the clouds where he chased pearls of wisdom across the skies. Whenever another brave koi finds the strength and courage to leap the falls at Dragon’s Gate they, too, become a Heavenly Dragon.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsjMFLU86QY/UdCLDgJNxJI/AAAAAAAACBM/2GylQjm3CEo/s800/koi_dragon_by_benwootten-d5fpbi5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsjMFLU86QY/UdCLDgJNxJI/AAAAAAAACBM/2GylQjm3CEo/s1600/koi_dragon_by_benwootten-d5fpbi5.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Koi Dragon by Ben Wootten buy here: </span><a href="http://browse.deviantart.com/art/Goldfish-328055999" style="font-size: x-small;">http://browse.deviantart.com/art/Goldfish-328055999</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Because of their endurance and perseverance, koi have become the symbol of overcoming adversity and fulfilling one’s destiny. The Chinese word “carp” sounds similar to the word “business” and is also a homophone with “profit” or “advantage”. “Fish” sounds similar to “surplus” or “wealth”. Because of this word play, koi have also become associated also with good fortune in mercantile endeavours and paintings of them are a common decoration in shops and restaurants. And in the China of today there is still the possibility that a lowly shopkeeper may, by strength and courage, become a Dragon of Industry.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTKXFyfCTTg/UdCK2A-0qpI/AAAAAAAACAs/4yvhJKySpfw/s1064/Koi_Dragon_Fish_by_mysticgaia.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTKXFyfCTTg/UdCK2A-0qpI/AAAAAAAACAs/4yvhJKySpfw/s640/Koi_Dragon_Fish_by_mysticgaia.jpg" width="601" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Koi Dragon Fish by Cortney DeSantis - buy here: <a href="http://mysticgaia.deviantart.com/art/Koi-Dragon-Fish-139476400">http://mysticgaia.deviantart.com/art/Koi-Dragon-Fish-139476400</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Posted by Steve Caunce</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-15085179287968776842022-03-06T23:20:00.001-05:002022-03-06T23:20:57.074-05:00<p> </p><h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;">The Three
Evils </span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">(A Chinese
Folktale re-written by BoSt)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyRq49ckiPKfTkwjpPgK2HwsYTrxNJeMUWj9yt0WVSnehKZm9Larcn4zqf-lwR7EEgptvezDG5SoVs81hQ2BRMMuT279sgzzs1xyGmm-b6993SP5I8x5l1-HPUzJuIVLtOOoTht9EIJkbFsCxajBi_8pZZF3e5tCOPRa28ed2chrfDD6tDw6XnNaee=s890" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="890" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyRq49ckiPKfTkwjpPgK2HwsYTrxNJeMUWj9yt0WVSnehKZm9Larcn4zqf-lwR7EEgptvezDG5SoVs81hQ2BRMMuT279sgzzs1xyGmm-b6993SP5I8x5l1-HPUzJuIVLtOOoTht9EIJkbFsCxajBi_8pZZF3e5tCOPRa28ed2chrfDD6tDw6XnNaee=w640-h496" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once upon a
time, there lived an eccentric young man by the name of Dschou Tschu. He wore a
high hat on his head adorned with two pheasants’ wings; his garments were
woven of embroidered silk, and at his side hung the Dragon-spring sword. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Orphaned at an early age, h</span>e had a wild and mischievous nature which became
far worse when he was inebriated. He always intruded into other's business and any ongoing disputes; meanwhile, wherever he went his pranks and tomfoolery, as well, his inclination
to forcefully take that which belonged to others, beget or fostered quarrels
and brawls. He was hence, furtively detested throughout the neighborhood and whoever offended him had good reason to dread the ensued </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">terrible</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">consequences. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As he was blessed with an extraordinary super-human strength however, </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">the law
enforcement officers and the village elders dared not rebuke (reprimand, admonish)
or punish him seriously. And so, he’d persisted with his unruly ways for many a
year.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Eventually a
new Official was posted to that district; before the new magistrate formally took
up office however, surreptitiously (covertly and under disguise) he first went
about the countryside and listened to the citizen’s complaints. They in unison told
him that there were three great evils in that district. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
magistrate still under disguise, decided to in person call on Dschou Tschu. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Late that night when most decent folks were fast asleep, the inebriated Dschou
Tschu returned from the tavern, along the way slapping his sword
and singing in a loud voice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When he
reached his house he noted the man with his head down seated by the door and asked:
“Who are you; why are you weeping here so pitifully?”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
magistrate raised his head and glaring at Dschou, replied: “I am weeping
because of the people’s distress.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dschou Tschu
grimaced then threw his head back and guffawed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“You are
mistaken, my friend,” said he. “Revolt is seething round about us like boiling
water in a kettle. But here, in our little corner of the land, all is quiet and
peaceful. The harvest has been abundant, corn is plentiful, and all go happily
about their work. When you talk to me about distress I have to think of the man
who groans without being sick. And who are you, tell me that, which instead of
grieving for yourself, are grieving for others? And what are you doing loitering
at my door in this ungodly hour?”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I am the
new Magistrate,” replied the other. “Since I left my litter I have been looking
about in the neighborhood. I find the people are honest and simple in their way
of life, and everyone has sufficient to wear and to eat. This is all just as you
state. Yet, strange to say, when the elders come together, they always sigh and
complain. And if they are asked why, they answer: ‘There are three great evils
in our district!’ I have come to ask you to do away with two of them, as to the
third... perhaps I had better remain silent. And this is the reason I weep before
your door.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Well, what
are these evils?” enquired Dschou Tschu. “Speak freely, and tell me openly all
that you know!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“The first
evil,” said the Magistrate “is the evil dragon at the long bridge, which causes
the water to rise so that man and beast are drowned in the river. The second
evil is the tiger with the white forehead, which dwells in the hills. And the
third evil, Dschou Tschu—is you!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The crimson hue, the blush of shame swiftly infused the young man’s cheeks, and he bowed and said: “You
have come here from afar to be the Magistrate of this district, and yet you
feel such sympathy for the people? I was born in this place and yet I have only
made our elders grieve. What sort of a creature must I be? I beg that you return to your residence; fear not, I will see to it that matters improve!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dschou Tschu at once took off and ran all the way without stopping till he reached the hills. There he hunted the tiger out of his cave. The latter
leaped into the air so that the whole forest was shaken as though by a storm.
Next he came rushing up, roaring, and stretching out his claws savagely to
seize his pray. Dschou nimbly stepped back a pace, and the tiger landed
on the ground directly in front of him. Then he thrust the tiger’s neck to the
ground with his left hand, and beat him without stopping with his right, until
he lay dead on the earth. Dschou loaded the tiger on his back and went straight home.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiw9bPiuc1iALameYQiifIYZUjYZuwCYSOb22X3b6MbRprD5r2Rn3SVnuMieYr5KqjnIJM2U9qCFQ8mgpP1axQeVkEy5Ik5qiuOu91jCIFijxKJlSsmZamKe-ikXVhv1nJljubahrGwFx9ST7odxelUT7sGEl7OjnIBbf52PLvNZFYedPUU8XLvxH4S=s800" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="800" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiw9bPiuc1iALameYQiifIYZUjYZuwCYSOb22X3b6MbRprD5r2Rn3SVnuMieYr5KqjnIJM2U9qCFQ8mgpP1axQeVkEy5Ik5qiuOu91jCIFijxKJlSsmZamKe-ikXVhv1nJljubahrGwFx9ST7odxelUT7sGEl7OjnIBbf52PLvNZFYedPUU8XLvxH4S=w640-h440" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dschou </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">Tschu </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">subsequently went
to the long bridge. He undressed, took his sword in his hand, and thus dived
into the icy water. No sooner had he disappeared, than there was a boiling and
hissing, and the waves began to foam and billow. It sounded like the mad
beating of thousands of hoofs. After a time a stream of blood shot up from the
depths, and the water of the river turned red. Eventually triumphant Dschou, holding the
dragon’s decapitated head in his hand, rose out of the waves.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3epz8MET6kh6guyNoHKb0g85pDnK74UlKY9UXF62WDhBCl949_gDGX1Zu_4Ih7D-xoXdNy4VP-WqDSS-nlj-OhgwPf6fvXMyURdppbhzgPyqGwYpZXxqCEW1XdzH5og-1tGfV4bycSnSAjNphOAasPuEvNnnB3SaEy_TrBUn94zCT6QqVrdnfte7w=s820" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="820" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3epz8MET6kh6guyNoHKb0g85pDnK74UlKY9UXF62WDhBCl949_gDGX1Zu_4Ih7D-xoXdNy4VP-WqDSS-nlj-OhgwPf6fvXMyURdppbhzgPyqGwYpZXxqCEW1XdzH5og-1tGfV4bycSnSAjNphOAasPuEvNnnB3SaEy_TrBUn94zCT6QqVrdnfte7w=w640-h486" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">He went to
the Magistrate and reported, with a bow: “I have cut off the dragon’s head, and
have also done away with the tiger. Thus I have happily accomplished your two commands.
And now I shall wander away so that you may be rid of the third evil as well. My
Lord, please keep watch over my countrymen and, relay to the elders that they
need sorrow no more!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When he had
said this he enlisted as a soldier. In combat against the robbers he gained a
great reputation and once, when the latter were pressing him hard, and he saw
that he could not save himself, he bowed to the East and said: “The day has
come at last when I can atone for my sin with my life!” Then he offered his
neck to the sword and died.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtfGRLFZfJG1nFhrgsklF3dpjAPGiWZspzt6rf71CnrU8N1tWEsmG1w8ywfwSrh2bUeGO245dk0qZiLPHRWBIUCFMCSjLDfp35fcww2yy4wB5WSMV2qxVls-LSauqIhUnO_ynfqzTmrMwzBk_qjpElW4SzIKy4btHKIbmxEJj9pJF8vyViQeO19PGA=s1200" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1111" data-original-width="1200" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtfGRLFZfJG1nFhrgsklF3dpjAPGiWZspzt6rf71CnrU8N1tWEsmG1w8ywfwSrh2bUeGO245dk0qZiLPHRWBIUCFMCSjLDfp35fcww2yy4wB5WSMV2qxVls-LSauqIhUnO_ynfqzTmrMwzBk_qjpElW4SzIKy4btHKIbmxEJj9pJF8vyViQeO19PGA=w640-h592" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJCEKgcqu4Ql4ZrlxYaYxR_hPyMoStOza9tstIhzI_0Ci6kVhx_-A7XMl2wRcAxNocTazaT9HGr0aOet1dV0s8fx9QTEy3XFsCTLZ7Zzrcpy5OBTA3LZwILa3GRbVWoIgzOHGI8kSvzfdU-xWBFEa0tXrOT1kVzXR1IiFz2NtIHYI3qzTFKyhcSM_y=s880" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="880" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJCEKgcqu4Ql4ZrlxYaYxR_hPyMoStOza9tstIhzI_0Ci6kVhx_-A7XMl2wRcAxNocTazaT9HGr0aOet1dV0s8fx9QTEy3XFsCTLZ7Zzrcpy5OBTA3LZwILa3GRbVWoIgzOHGI8kSvzfdU-xWBFEa0tXrOT1kVzXR1IiFz2NtIHYI3qzTFKyhcSM_y=w640-h494" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Posted by Bo Caunce<br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Fin<o:p></o:p></span></p>Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-22514461500878273562022-03-06T23:19:00.000-05:002022-03-06T23:19:04.134-05:00Dragon People<br />
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Dragon People </span></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">What do all these people have in common?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbRlwaux0Ya_JOAtaB1Y1IWUEh5kiPFEZK9r_tDcWG8H93w1o8NP1QfKCpA4e64NmSDVtAamZeTjKGrNxUikzouT8MnrKKxFIZ6_6ExpXrrz1fAunckVpRFBn8CRIIHhznhYUKvTr5VyI0palJyS_O2PcY2NwAh-Eca1h8m2yCMyxjl61TfzkA_39Z=s947" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="947" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbRlwaux0Ya_JOAtaB1Y1IWUEh5kiPFEZK9r_tDcWG8H93w1o8NP1QfKCpA4e64NmSDVtAamZeTjKGrNxUikzouT8MnrKKxFIZ6_6ExpXrrz1fAunckVpRFBn8CRIIHhznhYUKvTr5VyI0palJyS_O2PcY2NwAh-Eca1h8m2yCMyxjl61TfzkA_39Z=w608-h640" width="608" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hint: This year, 2012, is also a year of Dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Still guessing?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Answer: They are all born in the year of Dragon. Those born
in the Dragon year, besides being fortunate (the Chinese name “lung” is a sign
of luck), are also honoured and well respected.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h4 class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is some character traits associated with the Dragon
Personalities:</span></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragons are free spirited persons always being free and
uninhibited, for conformation is a Dragon’s curse. Restrictions snuffs out the
ample creative spark that is always ready to flare. Dragons feel that all rules and regulations
pertain to others and not to them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Dragon beings are beautiful creatures; their natural
instinct is to be colourful and flamboyant. An extroverted bundle of energy,
gifted and utterly, utterly irrepressible, in fact, everything Dragons do is on
a grand scale: big ideas, ornate gestures, and extreme ambitions. Because they
are confident and fearless in nature, they will always overcome any challenge
and are inevitably successful in rising to the very pinnacle of any profession.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A note of caution: Dragon people need to be aware of their ambitious nature
however, for too much enthusiasm can leave them fatigued and unfulfilled. Though they are always ready to give any assistance whenever
the need arises they are also proud and loathe accepting any form of aid from
others.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Dragon's originality is the most impressive and outstanding
of all his characteristics. The Dragon is quite imaginative and always able to
see new paths where others may run into brick walls. Dragons are very adaptable
and are fit for various occupations, especially those occupations that allow
them to bathe in the limelight. Dragons work hard, but would rather give orders
than receive them. Therefore to be content, they should avoid jobs that
encompass too much routine, and opt instead for the positions in which their
self-reliance can be an asset. Some of the occupations best suited for the
Dragon are Computer analysts, Inventors, Engineers, Architects, Lawyers,
Philosophers, Psychoanalysts, Brokers, Managers, PR People, Advertising agents,
Sales people, Officers in the military, Campaigners for Charities or Politicians.
In any of these occupations the Dragons will often take a radical approach</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Not the most domesticated of the Animal signs, Dragons may
be more content out and about rather than stuck at home. Nevertheless, blessed
with imagination and artistic sense, they may enjoy decorating their home or
anywhere else where their extravagance can be expressed and duly appreciated. A
Dragon's home is usually large and majestic in accordance with his personality,
providing ample space for that fiery temperament or sudden emotional eruptions
that are typical of their character.
Keep in mind also that Dragons are egotistical and love to be the center
of attention; modesty is not one of their assets. Add to that the Dragon temper
and you have a commanding, domineering and authoritative chief. They do hate
unsolicited advice and can be hopelessly tactless and insensitive to their
lovers and spouses. It takes someone who is easygoing yet has a thick skin to
be the Dragon's partner because, despite their sentimental characters, Dragons
can be moody and insensitive. All the same, Dragons are loved so much because
they are generous, charismatic, irresistible, and so brave that standing beside
them banishes fear. They generate excitement and turn heads anywhere they go. They
are free-spirited and impulsive and can help others achieve their dreams.
Others love to be around Dragons because they have a way of making people feel
better.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">True enough, the Dragon’s generous personality gives them
the ability to attract friends easily, but they are rather solitary people at
heart. A Dragon’s self-sufficiency means that he or she has no need for close
bonds with other people. Dragons are quick to fall in love, but do not
surrender their independence easily leaving most of them to live life by
themselves. Yet, a smart, witty, and funny companion may intrigue the Dragon
long enough to make him want to get married and, once the Dragon becomes
committed, they will be fiercely loyal and most unlikely to ever leave.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Many people will want to run when the Dragon's temper is
provoked. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have
the potential to be successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can
point us in the right direction, we must still make all efforts to maintain
loving relationships.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLEwyO1vf2M/T7hxlIOQzdI/AAAAAAAAA5c/9yG0SZ0HKtc/s1600/Diving+Dragon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLEwyO1vf2M/T7hxlIOQzdI/AAAAAAAAA5c/9yG0SZ0HKtc/s1600/Diving+Dragon.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragons and Other Animals:</span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragons are compatible with, and are best friends with, Rats
and Monkeys. There is an easy bonding with the Snake and few problems; not much
understanding with the Ox and Sheep and Rabbit. Tigers present a challenge but
also many thrills. When it comes to the Horse and Pig there are complications
with their different attitudes and dragons have some difficulty in getting
along with them. Dogs meanwhile are considered a mortal Enemy for Dragon folk.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In a scenario where Dragon marries another Dragon, they need
to learn to share the spotlight; once this is accomplished, they will live in
absolute bliss. Furthermore nothing is beyond their reach.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">A Dragon and Snake union: A clever, crafty and quick-witted
relationship as they fit together like pieces of a puzzle.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragon marrying a Horse: In this case you share a powerful
sexual chemistry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragon marrying Rabbit or Sheep: Despite the sexual
attraction, eventually you'll find too many differences to overcome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dragon marrying Monkey: You share similar opinions and goals
that destine you for happiness.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragon marrying Dog: A truly tumultuous affair-not
recommended for peace of mind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragon marrying Pig: A caring and deeply affectionate
relationship.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragon marrying Rooster: You make a beautiful couple, but
your egotism blinds you.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Because people born in the year of the Dragon are so bent on
furthering their careers, they usually put off having and raising children
until late. Parenting doesn't come very naturally or easily to the Dragon.
However, when Dragons do become parents, they approach it with the same
enthusiasm as their other endeavors. They are proud parents and tend to boast
about the accomplishments and good looks of their children. Dragons, noted for
their benevolence, tend to shower their children with toys and spending money.
It has been remarked that they substitute material things for quality time with
their children. Even so, Dragons take parenting seriously and are quite
protective of their children's welfare. Should anything upset them, or should
anyone wrong them, the Dragon will prepare to fight and avenge the people who
have hurt or belittled their offspring.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Like their adult counterparts, children born in the Year of
the Dragon have vivid personalities and are independent from birth. Noisy and
active, parents should stimulate their imaginations as soon as possible. Their
imagination and inquisitive natures can be troublesome for the Dragon child and
can often land them in a heap of trouble at school which can cause teachers and
other parents to deem them troublemakers or naughty. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes Dragon children are loners who daydream and drift
to into their own world of make-believe. They are creative and are able to
entertain themselves for hours on end. They don’t mind playing by themselves,
often inventing games and puzzles while doing so. All the same, Dragon children
are responsible children who love to take on and complete as many tasks as
possible for it gives them a sense of accomplishment. They do however demand
careful attention and special handling in order to bring out the best in them.
Their creativity and talents must be encouraged, even if it means spending
extra time in certain school subjects in order to help them master the subject.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">As we mentioned earlier, Dragons are usually popular people,
but because of their personalities, they seem to gather as much criticism as
they do esteem. Due to their tumultuous temperaments, Dragons are not the most
sensitive friends to those in need of a shoulder to cry on; however, those who
truly know the Dragon know he is a loving soul who will become your best ally
in times of need. Once the dynamic Dragon has given his friendship, he will not
let his friends down and will never falter in his allegiance to his companions.
To a Dragon, a friend is a friend for a lifetime. Incredibly honest, Dragons
are known for sincerity and are trusting souls. Because of this honesty Dragons
don't realize others may not demonstrate or uphold the same codes of ethics.
Making the discovery that they placed their trust in someone who is dishonest
makes the Dragon person quite sad, yet much more perceptive for future
encounters.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragons are attracted by the bizarre. No self-respecting
Dragon desires to walk in a tourist's footsteps. Instead, they take a lot of
gratification in finding hidden destinations, or, closer to home, locations off
the beaten track. But Dragons also need thrills, which they might find by
taking an unplanned winter break to go skiing or a spontaneous rock climbing
trip in the spring. They may even test their bravery by daring to ride the
highest roller coaster in the world. Dragons are also sentimental at heart, so
conquering their childhood haunts, or taking a second honeymoon would bring
immense pleasure too.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragons also like to spend money and are most charitable.
They do not know the meaning of the word "accumulate," and making
money does not intrigue them as it may others. Many Dragons will take big
chances with their finances, sometimes betting on their shirt and losing it
right off of their backs. Yet, they were born with the Midas touch, and it very
rare that a Dragon remains poor for long. Dragons will always be
straightforward in financial dealings and can always be trusted. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Other characteristics are as follows: Innovative,
Enterprising, Flexible, Brave, Passionate, Conceited, Tactless, Scrutinizing,
Unanticipated and Quick-tempered. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragons take thrilling risks and burn the candle at both
ends so they are fortunate to be blessed with good health. Among the heartiest
of the Animal signs, they can suffer bad health as a result of stress. Symptoms
of their personalities often stem from emotional outbursts and can range from
tension headaches to depression to hypertension. Dragons can remedy these
problems by maintaining their cool, implementing a routine in their daily
lives, and utilizing exercises such as yoga or tai kwon do that soothe the mind
and spirit as well as tone the body.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h4 class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Some of the likes and
dislikes of the Dragon personality:</span></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Color Preference: Greenish-Blue </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Gems and Stones: Opal, Sapphire, Amber</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Suitable Gifts: Tarot cards, camera, a copy of the I-Ching,
mirror, a family crest, a mobile phone </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hobbies and Pastimes: Computer programming, public speaking,
fossil hunting, astrology</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Dragons Dislike: Taking orders, unnecessary bureaucracy,
discounted ideas, people who don't give 100%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Now here are the people in the photo, have fun matching their names:<br />
<br />
Maya Angelou, Joan Armatrading, Joan Baez, Sandra Bullock, Bing Crosby, Salvador Dali, Charles Darwin, Chiristian Dior, Placido Domingo, Fats Domino, Sigmund Freud, Che Guevara, Joan of Arc, Immanuel Kant, Martin Luther King, John Lennon, Abraham Lincoln, Florence Nightingale, Edgar Allan Poe, Keanu Reeves, Isabella Rossellini, George Bernard Shaw, Alicia Silverstone, Ringo Starr, Shirley Temple, Andy Warhol, Raquel Welch, and Mae West<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Other notable Dragon Year people are:<br />
Jeffrey Archer, Joan Armatrading, Count Basie, Roseanne Barr, Maeve Binchy, Juliette Binoche, Alexandra Burke, Michael Cera, Courteney Cox, Russell Crowe, Roald Dahl, Neil Diamond, Bo Diddley, Matt Dillon, Kirk Douglas, Faye Dunaway, Colin Farrel, Dan Fogler, Bruce Forsyth, Calista Flockhart, Graham Greene, James Herriot, Paul Hogan, Boris Johnson, Sir Tom Jones, Wyonna Judd, Courtney Love, Elle Macpherson, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, Nick Nolte, Julia Ormond, Sharon Osbourne, Al Pacino, Gregory Peck, Pele, Nikki Reed, Ryan Reynolds, Sir Cliff Richard, Martin Sheen, Dinah Shore, Princess Stephanie of Monaco, Dave Stewart, Karlheinz Stockhausen, Maria von Trapp, Louis Walsh, Mark Webber, and Reese Witherspoon. Just to name a few.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To find out what years belong to which of the Chinese Animal Signs (and to you) see our blog: <a href="http://notableinklings.blogspot.ca/2012/01/year-of-dragon-brings-ups-and-downs.html" target="_blank">The Year of the Dragon Brings Ups and Downs</a> for the full list.</span></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-46303136580596321662022-03-06T23:18:00.000-05:002022-03-06T23:18:44.861-05:00The Midgard Serpent<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2kvMq28cAk/T4gIeS3oHmI/AAAAAAAAAz8/5bjIcdZgvSY/s1600/Jormungander.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2kvMq28cAk/T4gIeS3oHmI/AAAAAAAAAz8/5bjIcdZgvSY/s1600/Jormungander.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Jormungandr by BoSt</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><h4><br />
</h4><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif"> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">The Origin of the Midgard Serpent</span></h4><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0cm;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L570HfoCmPc/T0hy9y-8EII/AAAAAAAAAls/yWOnTsaXW-Y/s1600/the_midgard_serpent_by_vyrilien-d491d85.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L570HfoCmPc/T0hy9y-8EII/AAAAAAAAAls/yWOnTsaXW-Y/s640/the_midgard_serpent_by_vyrilien-d491d85.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Midgard Serpent by vyrilien-d491d85</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">In the Norse and Teutonic legends, as recounted in the Prose Edda of Snorri Sturlson, the most powerful and feared Dragon-like creature was the Midgard Serpent, known as Jörmungandr. Jörmungandr was so huge he was able to circle the entire Earth (or Midgard as it was called by the Vikings) and put its own tail into its mouth. The Midgard Serpent’s sworn enemy was the Thunder God Thor, one of the few Gods of Asgard who possessed the strength to stand up to the beast. The relationship between the Thunder God and the Serpent started when the Gods were young and ended in Ragnarok; the Twilight of the Gods.<br />
The Midgard Serpent is the middle son of Loki, a jötunn (nature spirits with superhuman strength) himself the son of Laufey (an embodiment of vegetation) and Fárbauti (the spirit of lightning) whose mingling bequeathed Loki the spirit and unpredictability of wildfire. Loki’s mother was the giantess Angrboða, “the one who bring grief”, and his siblings were the Dire Wolf Fenrir and Hel, the Goddess of the Dead whose realm was the mist world of Niflheim. Niflheim was one of the two primordial realms along with Muspelheim where the Fire jötunn dwelt. All three of Loki’s children along with the jötunn of Muspelheim play a pivotal role in bringing about Ragnarok.</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><br />
Odin, father of the Thunder God Thor’s and leader of the Æsir, saw the danger in Jörmungandr when it would not stop growing after its birth. He threw the serpent into the sea of Midgard, where it continued to grow until it surrounded the whole world. The seas of earth became the realm of the Midgard Serpent.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<h4><span style="font-size: large;">Thor Lifts a Cat</span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-io85UYwLAHU/T0h1UCjn-XI/AAAAAAAAAos/vNlEq1ukUFU/s1600/thor.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-io85UYwLAHU/T0h1UCjn-XI/AAAAAAAAAos/vNlEq1ukUFU/s320/thor.jpg" width="178" /></a></h4><span style="font-size: large;">The first encounter Thor had with the Midgard Serpent was in the Castle of Útgarda-Loki during a ritual test of strength. Útgarda-Loki had challenged Thor to drink from a horn whose end was dipped in the sea. Thor failed to drain it, but drank so much it created the tides. Thor then had to wrestle an old crone, a servant of Útgarda-Loki, but was overcome with weakness after being unable to so much as move her. The crone was old age, who neither man nor God could overcome. The third test that Útgarda-Loki posed was to lift a grey cat up off of the floor. Thor tried with all his strength, but was only able to get the cat to lift one paw off of the ground. The cat was actually the Midgard Serpent, whose size was so great that even lifting a small part off of the sea bed was enough to cause earthquakes and tidal waves. Thor left the Castle with Útgarda-Loki’s promise that Thor would never be allowed back in.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif"><br />
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<h4><span style="font-size: large;">Thor Goes Fishing</span></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H5aFfmhTSHs/T0h1TCOa8HI/AAAAAAAAAoU/Ij00RIl6J5c/s1600/httpstigsaxblogspotcom201011thors-fishing-trip.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H5aFfmhTSHs/T0h1TCOa8HI/AAAAAAAAAoU/Ij00RIl6J5c/s640/httpstigsaxblogspotcom201011thors-fishing-trip.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">The next time Thor and Jörmungandr encountered the other Thor, disguised as a young boy, visited Midgard with the God Tyr and stayed with the giant Hymir while Tyr visited his mother and grandmother in the land of the Ice Giants. Hymir was renowned for his fishing skill, and regularly returned with huge fish, even whales, but Hymir looked at the young Thor and doubted if he would be any use rowing his boat. “You are so small, if I take you out for as long and as far as I am wont to go you would undoubtedly freeze.”<br />
This enraged Thor but he held his temper and did not strike the giant. “I will row as far and as fast as you need me to. Nor am I certain which of us would give up and want to return first. Now, where is the bait?”</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><br />
“If you want to fish with me get your own bait.”</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfOX-c5SUv0/T0h0ZxwwBZI/AAAAAAAAAl4/-qZQb38yD1o/s1600/425px-Johann_Heinrich_F%25C3%25BCssli_011+Thor+vs.+the+Midgard+Sre.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfOX-c5SUv0/T0h0ZxwwBZI/AAAAAAAAAl4/-qZQb38yD1o/s640/425px-Johann_Heinrich_F%25C3%25BCssli_011+Thor+vs.+the+Midgard+Sre.jpg" width="464" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Johann Heinrich Füssli: Thor vs. the Midgard Serpent</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif"> </span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Once more Thor’s temper flared, and he strode up the hill to where Hymir kept his herd of prize cattle. Picking the largest ox, named Himinbrjotr, or Sky-Cleaver, and struck off his head with one blow. When he returned Hymir had already launched the boat and had taken up rowing position in the bow. Thor tossed the Ox-head into the vessel and climbed in to man the stern set of oars. Hymir, facing forward, was surprised how fast the boat moved; at first not knowing Thor was powering it from behind. When Hymir reached the fishing grounds where he usually caught flat fish he shipped the oars and called for a stop. Thor refused, wanting to keep going further into the ocean and rowed them out to the spot Hymir caught whales. When the giant wanted to stop and catch whales, Thor again refused, “We must go further out.”</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AtD2PP4m46o/T0h1S8nSAVI/AAAAAAAAAoI/dUZqJYHzFrg/s1600/Wissler_1900_Sweden.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AtD2PP4m46o/T0h1S8nSAVI/AAAAAAAAAoI/dUZqJYHzFrg/s640/Wissler_1900_Sweden.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wissler 1900</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif"> </span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">“If we do not stop here, we will be in the realm of the Midgard Serpent, who circles the world at its edge.” Hymir remonstrated with Thor two more times but Thor continued to row. Then Thor finally stopped the boat and they both started fishing. Hymir baited his own hook twice, threw it out, and each time he pulled in a huge whale. “I challenge you to do as well as this, stripling.”<br />
Thor then took a strong line and hook and fastened the Ox head onto it. He then let it out farther and farther until it rested on the bottom of the sea where it dragged along behind the boat. The Midgard Serpent was intrigued by the bait and snapped at it, burying the hook into its jaw. Thrashing with pain, Jörmungandr thrashed and swam away so rapidly that it pulled Thor’s knuckles into the gunwale. Angered now, Thor pulled with all his strength just as Jörmungandr pulled in the other direction with such force that Thor’s feet broke through the deck to catch on the hull of the ship. Calling on all his force, Thor reeled in the line hand-over-hand, twisting the free end around the oar-pins as he brought it up, finally working the mighty serpent all the way up to the surface. When the Midgard Serpent’s monstrous head came into view, dripping with blood and venom, Hymir grew yellow of face, and feared for his life. Great waves washed over the gunwale, threatening to swamp the vessel and drown them both but Thor held on to the line with one mighty hand and with the other reached to his belt for his hammer.</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><br />
From shoulder height Thor struck the Serpent with the hammer Mjöllnir. The mountains shook and the ocean trembled but Jörmungandr was only wounded. As Thor raised Mjöllnir above his head to deliver a killing blow strong enough to split a mountain, Hymir grabbed his knife and cut the line. Jörmungandr quickly slipped back into the depths of the sea to hide as far away from Thor as he could get. Once more enraged by Hymir, Thor did not hold back and brought Mjöllnir down upon the giant’s head, knocking him over the side and down to the bottom of the sea. Filled with a great fear the giant managed to climb back into the boat and huddle in the stern while Thor rowed to land. The God may not have been able to kill the Midgard Serpent and end its threat to Asgard, but he had landed a wounding blow and avenged the trick the beast had played upon him in the Hall of Útgarda-Loki.</span><br />
<h4><span style="font-size: large;">Ragnarok: The End of the World</span> </h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HquHu-RQokU/T0h1TpO6PuI/AAAAAAAAAok/YB03tBI1ytI/s1600/peter-nicolai-arbo-aasgaardreien.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="440" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HquHu-RQokU/T0h1TpO6PuI/AAAAAAAAAok/YB03tBI1ytI/s640/peter-nicolai-arbo-aasgaardreien.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter Nicolai Arbo: Aasgaardreien</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">The prophecy of Raganrok speaks of the doom that befalls Heaven, Earth and Hell because of Thor’s failure to kill the Jörmungandr when he had the chance. When Loki is freed from his chains, the Midgard Serpent rises from the depths to poison the sky of Midgard. Naglefar, the Ship of Death, made in Hel’s realm from the fingernails of the dead, carries Fenrir, Hel, her dragon Nidhogg, swallower of souls, and the demon hoards of Muspelheim under the command of Surtur the Fire Demon to join with the Serpent, Loki and the Ice Giants of Jotunheim in the attack on Asgard. In the final battle of Ragnarok on the fields of Vigrid all Creation is undone and Time itself is shattered.<br />
The battle between Thor and Jörmungandr lasts long and the outcome is uncertain. Thor strikes with Mjöllnir but the Serpent writhes away from the blows, spewing venom over the Thunder God. Thor grows angrier and finally is able to land the deathblow on the Midgard Serpent, stretching him out over the Plain of Vigrid, unmoving. Yet, even in its death throes the Serpent manages to spray its deadly venomous vapor into Thor’s face, who breathes it in and manages to walk but nine paces away before dying on the battlefield beside his mortal foe.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jiB1YAkotB4/T0h1RgR4i-I/AAAAAAAAAn8/sEMI8Hz1KDw/s1600/Ragnarok_by_HarryBuddhaPalm.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jiB1YAkotB4/T0h1RgR4i-I/AAAAAAAAAn8/sEMI8Hz1KDw/s1600/Ragnarok_by_HarryBuddhaPalm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ragnarok_by_HarryBuddhaPalm</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">Thor would not be the only Æsir to die at Ragnarok. Even though Loki is killed by Heimdal, Keeper of Bifrost, the Rainbow Bridge, Heimdal is gored by Loki’s horns and succumbs. Tyr is slain by the wolf-dog Garm and Surtur dispatches Frey with his flaming sword. Fenrir attacks and slays Odin the All-Father and is speared in turn by Odin’s son Vidar, who manages to survive the battle. Nidhogg, Hel’s Black Dragon, soars over the plain swallowing the souls of the dead. The Dire Wolf Skoll swallows the sun and the stars blink out of the sky. Surtur the Fire Demon moves through the worlds burning everything with his sword. Midgard is covered in volcanic flame and its sky filled with poisonous smoke, Asgard is scorched and even Nidhogg succumbs to the inferno. Fire curls around the burning trunk of Ygdrasil, the World Tree. Smoldering and blackened, the Earth sinks beneath the sea. What follows is nothing but deep blackness and silence unbroken.</span><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Posted by Steve Caunce</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-57180349183019132292022-03-06T22:59:00.000-05:002022-03-06T22:59:36.753-05:00The Christmas Eve Snap-Dragons<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Dragon-y Christmas</span></h1>
<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to a Victorian tale for your Dragon-y Christmas.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Snap-Dragons was written by Juliana Horatia Ewing in 1870 and published in the Christmas edition of The Monthly Packet. You may find the anachronisms of Victorian times rather quaint and some seem outright silly in retrospect but you may also conclude that they do have their own charm.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For ease of reading you can pronounce the main characters' Family Name "<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;">Skratdj" as "Scratch".</span></span><br />
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, on to the story:</span></span><br />
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Snap-Dragons
- A Tale of Christmas Eve</span></span></h2>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">(Juliana Horatia Ewing)</span></h4><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<h3>
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">MR.
AND MRS. SKRATDJ</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once upon a time there lived a certain family of the name of
Skratdj. (It has a Russian or Polish look, and yet they most certainly lived in
England.) They were remarkable for the following peculiarity. They seldom
seriously quarrelled, but they never agreed about anything. It is hard to say
whether it were more painful for their friends to hear them constantly
contradicting each other, or gratifying to discover that it "meant nothing,”
and was "only their way."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It began with the father and mother. They were a worthy
couple, and really attached to each other. But they had a habit of
contradicting each other’s statements, and opposing each other’s opinions,
which, though mutually understood and allowed for in private, was most trying
to the bystanders in public. If one related an anecdote, the other would break
in with half-a-dozen corrections of trivial details of no interest or importance
to anyone, the speakers included. For instance: Suppose the two dining in a
strange house, and Mrs. Skratdj seated by the host, and contributing to the
small-talk of the dinner-table. Thus:—</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, yes. Very changeable weather indeed. It looked
quite promising yesterday morning in the town, but it began to rain at noon.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"A quarter past eleven, my dear,” Mr. Skratdj’s voice
would be heard to say from several chairs down, in the corrective tones of a
husband and father; "and really, my dear, so far from being a promising
morning, I must say it looked about as threatening as it well could. Your memory
is not always accurate in small matters, my love.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But Mrs. Skratdj had not been a wife and a mother for
fifteen years, to be snuffed out at one snap of the marital snuffers. As Mr.
Skratdj leaned forward in his chair, she leaned forward in hers, and defended
herself across the intervening couples.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Why, my dear Mr. Skratdj, you said yourself the weather had
not been so promising for a week."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />”What I said, my dear, pardon me, was that the barometer was
higher than it had been for a week. But, as you might have observed if these details
were in your line, my love, which they are not, the rise was </span><span style="font-size: large;">extraordinarily rapid, and there is no surer sign of
unsettled Weather. But Mrs. Skratdj is apt to forget these unimportant
trifles,” he added, with a comprehensive smile round the dinner-table; ”her
thoughts are very properly absorbed by the more important domestic questions of
the nursery."</span><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Now I think that's rather unfair on Mr. Skratdj’s
part,” Mrs. Skratdj would chirp, with a smile quite as affable and as general
as her husband’s. ”I’m sure he's quite as forgetful and inaccurate as Iam. And
I don't think my memory is at all a bad one.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"You forgot the dinner hour when we were going out to
dine last week, nevertheless,” said Mr. Skratdj.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"And you couldn't help me when I asked you," was
the sprightly retort. "And I’m sure it’s not like you to forget anything
about dinner, my dear.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"The letter was addressed to you,” said Mr. Skratdj.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I sent it to you by Jemima,” said Mrs. Skratdj.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I didn't read it,” said Mr. Skratdj.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Well, you burnt it,” said Mrs. Skratdj; ”and, as I always
say, there’s nothing more foolish than burning a letter of invitation before
the day, for one is certain to forget.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I’ve no doubt you always do say it,” Mr. Skratdj remarked, with
a smile, "but I certainly never remember to have heard the observation
from your lips, my love.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Whose memory’s in fault there?” asked Mrs. Skratdj
triumphantly; and as at this point the ladies rose, Mrs. Skratdj had the last
word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Indeed, as may be gathered from this conversation, Mrs.
Skratdj was quite able to defend herself. When she was yet a bride, and young
and timid, she used to collapse when Mr. Skratdj </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">contradicted her </span><span style="font-size: large;">statements, and set her stories straight in public. Then she
hardly ever opened her lips without disappearing under the domestic
extinguisher. But in the course of fifteen years she had learned that Mr.
Skratdj’s bark was a great deal worse than his bite. (If, indeed, he had a bite
at all.) Thus snubs that made other people's ears tingle, had no effect whatever
on the lady to whom they were addressed, for she knew exactly what they were
worth, and had by this time become fairly adept at snapping in return.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the days when she succumbed she was occasionally unhappy, but now she and her husband understood each other, and, having agreed to differ, they unfortunately agreed also to differ in public.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Indeed, it was the by-standers who had the worst of it on these
occasions. To the worthy couple themselves the habit had become second nature,
and in no way affected the friendly tenor of their domestic relations. They would
interfere with each other’s conversation, contradicting assertions, and
disputing conclusions for a whole evening; and then, when all the world and his
wife thought that these ceaseless sparks of bickering must blaze up into a flaming
quarrel as soon as they were alone, they would bowl amicably home in a cab, criticizing
the friends who were commenting upon them, and as little agreed about the
events of the evening as about the details of any other events whatever.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes; the by-standers certainly had the worst of it. Those
who were near wished themselves anywhere else, especially when appealed to.
Those who were at a distance did not mind so much. A domestic squabble at a certain
distance is interesting, like an engagement viewed from a point beyond the
range of guns. In such a position one may someday be placed oneself! Moreover,
it gives a touch of excitement to a dull evening to be able to say sotto voce
to one’s neighbor, "Do listen! The Skratdjs are at it again!” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Their
unmarried friends thought a terrible abyss of tyranny and aggravation must lie beneath
it all, and blessed their stars that they were still single and able to tell a
tale their own way. The married ones had more idea of how it really was, and
wished in the name of common sense and good taste that Skratdj and his wife
would not make fools of themselves. So it went on, however; and so, I suppose,
it goes on still, for not many bad habits are cured in middle age.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On certain questions of comparative speaking their views
were never identical. Such as the temperature being hot or cold, things being
light or dark, the apple-tarts being sweet or sour. So one day Mr. Skratdj came
into the room, rubbing his hands, and planting himself at the fire with ”Bitterly
cold it is to-day, to be sure."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Why, my dear William," said Mrs. Skratdj,
"I'm sure you must have got a cold; I feel a fire quite oppressive
myself.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”You were wishing you’d a seal-skin jacket yesterday, when
it wasn’t half as cold as it is to-day,” said Mr. Skratdj.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”My dear William! Why, the children were shivering the whole
day, and the wind was in the north.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Due east, Mrs. Skratdj."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I know by the smoke,” said Mrs. Skratdj, softly, but
decidedly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I fancy I can tell an east wind when I feel it," said
Mr. Skratdj, jocosely, to the company.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I told Jemima to look at the weathercock,” murmured
Mrs. Skratdj.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I don’t care a fig for Jemima,” said her husband.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On another occasion Mrs. Skratdj and a lady friend were
conversing. . . ”We met him at the Smith’s—a gentlemanlike agreeable man, about
forty," said Mrs. Skratdj, in reference to some matter interesting to both
ladies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Not a day over thirty-five,” said Mr. Skratdj, from behind
his</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">newspaper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Why, my dear William, his hair’s grey,” said Mrs. Skratdj.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Plenty of men are grey at thirty,” said Mr. Skratdj.
"I knew a man who was grey at twenty-five.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Well, forty or thirty-five, it doesn't much matter,” said
Mrs. Skratdj, about to resume her narration.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Five years matters a good deal to most people at
thirty-five,” said Mr. Skratdj, as he walked towards the door. "They would
make a remarkable difference to me, I know; ” and with a jocular air Mr.
Skratdj departed, and Mrs. Skratdj had the rest of the anecdote her own way.</span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE
LITTLE SKRATDJS</span></span></h3>
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<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Spirit of Contradiction finds a place in most nurseries,
though to a very varying degree in different ones. Children snap and snarl by
nature, like young puppies; and most of us can remember taking part in some such
spirited dialogues as the following:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I will.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> "You daren't.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”You can’t.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> ”I dare.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”You shall.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> ”I’ll tell Mamma.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I won’t."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> "I don’t care if
you do.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is the part of wise parents to repress these squibs and
crackers of juvenile contention, and to enforce that slowly-learned lesson,
that in this world one must often ”pass over” and ”put up with” things in other
people, being oneself by no means perfect. Also that it is a kindness, and almost
a duty, to let people think and say and do things in their own way
occasionally.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But even if Mr. and Mrs. Skratdj had ever thought of
teaching all this to their children, it must be confessed that the lesson would
not have come with a good grace from either of them, since they snapped and
snarled between themselves as much or more than their children in the nursery. The
two elders were the leaders in the nursery squabbles. Between these, a boy and a
girl, a ceaseless war of words was waged from morning to night. And as neither
of them lacked ready wit, and both were in constant practice, the art of snapping
was cultivated by them to the highest pitch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It began at breakfast, if not sooner.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"You’ve taken my chair.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">”It’s not your chair.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”You know it’s the one I like, and it was in my place.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”How do you know it was in your place?"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Never mind, I do know.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”No, you don’t.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Yes, I do.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Suppose I say it was in my place.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"You can't, for it wasn't.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I can, if I like.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Well, was it?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I shan’t tell you.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Ah! That shows it wasn't.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”No, it doesn't.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Yes, it does.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Etc., etc., etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The direction of their daily walks was a fruitful subject of
difference of opinion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Let’s go on the Common to-day, Nurse.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Oh, don’t let’s go there; we’re always going on the
Common."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I'm sure we're not. We’ve not been there for ever so
long.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, what a story! We were there on Wednesday. Let's go
down Gipsey Lane. We never go down Gipsey Lane.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Why, we're always going down Gipsey Lane. And there’s
nothing to see there.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I don’t care. I won’t go on the Common, and I shall go and
get Papa to say we're to go down Gipsey Lane. I can run faster than you.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”That’s very sneaking; but I don’t care.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Papa! Papa! Polly’s called me a sneak.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”No, I didn’t, Papa.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"You did.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”No, I didn’t. I only said it was sneaking of you to say
you'd run faster than me, and get Papa to say we were to go down Gipsey Lane.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Then you did call him sneaking,” said Mr. Skratdj.
"And you're a very naughty, ill-mannered little girl. You're getting very
troublesome, Polly, and I shall have to send you to school, where you’ll be
kept in order. Go where your brother wishes at once.”</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />For Polly and her brother had reached an age when it was
convenient, if possible, to throw the blame of all nursery differences on
Polly. In families where domestic discipline is rather fractious than firm,
there </span><span style="font-size: large;">comes a stage when the girls almost invariably go to the
wall, because they will stand snubbing, and the boys will not. Domestic
authority, like some other powers, is apt to be magnified on the weaker class. But
Mr. Skratdj would not always listen even to Harry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"If you don’t give it me back directly, I'll tell about
your eating the two magnum-bonums in the kitchen garden on Sunday,” said Master
Harry, on one occasion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Tell-tale tit! Your tongue shall be slit, And every dog in
the town shall have a little bit,” quoted his sister.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Ah! You've called me a tell-tale. Now I'll go and tell
Papa. You got into a fine scrape for calling me names the other day.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Go, then! I don't care."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />"You wouldn't like me to go, I know.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"You daren’t. That's what it is."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I dare.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Then why don't you?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, I am going; but you'll see what will be the end of
it."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Polly, however, had her own reasons for remaining stolid,
and Harry started. But when he reached the landing he paused. Mr. Skratdj had especially
announced that morning that he did not wish to be disturbed, and though he was
a favourite, Harry had no desire to invade the dining-room at this crisis. So
he returned to the nursery, and said, with a magnanimous air, ”I don't want to
get you into a scrape, Polly. If you'll beg my pardon I won't go."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I'm sure I shan’t," said Polly, who was equally well
informed as to the position of affairs at head-quarters. "Go, if you
dare.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I won't if you want me not, " said Harry, discreetly
waiving the question of apologies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”But I’d rather you went,” said the obdurate Polly. ”You’re
always telling tales. Go and tell now, if you're not afraid.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So Harry went. But at the bottom of the stairs he lingered
again, and was meditating how to return with most credit to his dignity, when
Polly’s face appeared through the banisters, and Polly's sharp tongue goaded
him on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Ah! I see you. You're stopping. You daren’t go.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I dare,” said Harry; and at last he went.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As he turned the handle of the door, Mr. Skratdj turned
round.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Please, Papa—” Harry began.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Get away with you!” cried Mr. Skratdj. ”Didn’t I tell
you I was not to be disturbed this morning? What an extraor—”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But Harry had shut the door, and withdrawn precipitately.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once outside, he returned to the nursery with dignified
steps, and an air of apparent satisfaction, saying:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”You’re to give me the bricks, please.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Who says so?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Why, who should say so? Where have I been, pray?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I don't know, and I don't care.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I’ve been to Papa. There!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Did he say I was to give up the bricks?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”I’ve told you.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"No, you've not.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I shan’t tell you anymore.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Then I'll go to Papa and ask.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">”Go by all means.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I won’t if you'll tell me truly.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I shan’t tell you anything. Go and ask, if you dare,” said
Harry, only too glad to have the tables turned.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Polly’s expedition met with the same fate, and she attempted
to cover her retreat in a similar manner.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Ah! you didn’t tell.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I don't believe you asked Papa.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Don’t you? Very well!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Well, did you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Never mind."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Etc., etc., etc.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Meanwhile Mr. Skratdj scolded Mrs. Skratdj for not keeping
the children in better order. And Mrs. Skratdj said it was quite impossible to do
so, when Mr. Skratdj spoilt Harry as he did, and weakened her (Mrs. Skratdj’s)
authority by constant interference. Difference of sex gave point to many of these
nursery squabbles, as it so often does to domestic broils.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Boys never will do what they're asked," Polly would
complain.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Girls ask such unreasonable things,” was Harry's
retort.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Not half so unreasonable as the things you ask."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Ah! That’s a different thing! Women have got to do
what men tell them, whether it’s reasonable or not."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”No, they’ve not!” said Polly. ”At least, that's only
husbands and wives.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”All women are inferior animals,” said Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Try ordering Mamma to do what you want and see!"
said Polly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Men have got to give orders, and women have to
obey," said Harry, falling back on the general principle. ”And when I get
a wife, I'll take care I make her do what I tell her. But you'll have to obey
your husband when you get one.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I won’t have a husband, and then I can do as I
like."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, won’t you? You’ll try to get one, I know. Girls
always want to be married.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I’m sure I don’t know why," said Polly; "they
must have had enough of men if they have brothers."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">And so they went on, ad infinitum, with ceaseless arguments
that proved nothing and convinced nobody, and a continual stream of contradiction
that just fell short of downright quarrelling.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Indeed, there was a kind of snapping even less near to a
dispute than in the cases just mentioned. The little Skratdjs, like some other
children, were under the unfortunate delusion that it sounds clever to hear
little boys and girls snap each other up with smart sayings, and old and rather
vulgar play upon words, such as:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I’ll give you a Christmas box. Which ear will you have it
on?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I won't stand it.” "Pray take a chair.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You shall have it to-morrow." ”To-morrow never
comes.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">And so if a visitor kindly began to talk to one of the
children, another was sure to draw near and "take up” all the first
child’s answers, with smart comments and catches that sounded as silly as they
were tiresome and impertinent.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">And ill-mannered as this was, Mr. and Mrs. Skratdj never put
a stop to it. Indeed, it was only a caricature of what they did themselves. But
they often said ”We can't think how it is the children are always
squabbling!"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE
SKRATDJ'S DOG AND THE HOT-TEMPERED GENTLEMAN</span></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">It is wonderful how the state of mind of a whole household
is influenced by the heads of it. Mr. Skratdj was a very kind master, and Mrs.
Skratdj was a very kind mistress, and yet their servants lived in a perpetual fever
of irritability that fell just short of discontent. They jostled each other on
the back stairs, said sharp things in the pantry, and kept up a perennial
warfare on the subject of the duty of the sexes with the general man-servant.
They gave warning on the slightest provocation.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The very dog was infected by the snapping mania. He was not
a brave dog, he was not a vicious dog, and no high-breeding sanctioned his pretensions
to arrogance. But like his owners, he had contracted a bad habit, a trick,
which made him the pest of all timid visitors, and indeed of all visitors
whatsoever.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The moment anyone approached the house, on certain occasions
when he was spoken to, and often in no traceable connection with any cause at all,
Snap the mongrel would rush out, and bark in his little sharp voice—”Yap! yap!
yap!” If the visitor made a stand, he would bound away sideways on his four
little legs; but the moment the visitor went on his way again, Snap was at his
heels—”Yap! yap! yap!” He barked at the milkman, the butcher's boy, and the baker,
though he saw them every day. He never got used to the Washerwoman, and she
never got used to him. She said he ”put her in mind of that there black dog in
the Pilgrim’s Progress.” He sat at the gate in summer, and yapped at every
vehicle and</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">every pedestrian who ventured to pass on the high road. He
never but once had the chance of barking at burglars; and then, though he
barked long and loud, nobody got up, for they said, "It’s only Snap’s
way.” The Skratdj s lost a silver teapot, a Stilton cheese, and two electro christening
mugs, on this occasion; and Mr. and Mrs. Skratdj dispute who it was who
discouraged reliance on Snap's warning to the present day.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">One Christmas time, a certain hot—tempered gentleman came to
visit the Skratdjs; a tall, sandy, energetic young man who carried his own bag
from the railway. The bag had been crammed rather than packed, after the wont
of bachelors; and you could see where the heel of a boot distended the leather,
and where the bottle of shaving-cream lay. As he came up to the house, out came
Snap as usual—”Yap! yap! yap!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Now the gentleman was very fond of dogs, and had borne this
greeting some dozens of times from Snap, who for his part knew the visitor quite
as well as the washerwoman, and rather better than the butcher's boy. The
gentleman had good, sensible, well-behaved dogs of his own, and was greatly
disgusted with Snap’s conduct. Nevertheless he spoke friendly to him; and Snap,
who had had many a bit from his plate, could not help stopping for a minute to
lick his hand. But no sooner did the gentleman proceed on his way, than Snap flew
at his heels in the usual fashion-</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Yap! Yap! Yap!”</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">On which the gentleman—being hot-tempered, and one of those
people with whom it is (as they say) a word and a blow, and the blow first—made
a dash at Snap, and Snap taking to his heels, the gentleman flung his carpet-bag
after him. The bottle of shaving-cream hit upon a stone and was smashed. The
heel of the boot caught Snap on the back and sent him squealing to the kitchen.
And he never barked at that gentleman again.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"> If the gentleman
disapproved of Snap’s conduct, he still less liked the continual snapping of
the Skratdj family themselves. He was an old friend of Mr, and Mrs. Skratdj,
however, and knew that they were really happy together, and that it was only a
bad habit which made them constantly contradict each other. It was in allusion
to their real affection for each other, and their perpetual disputing, that he called
them the ‘Snapping Turtles’.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">When the war of words waxed hottest at the dinner-table
between his host and hostess, he would drive his hands through his shock of
sandy hair, and say, with a comical glance out of his umber eyes: ”Don’t flirt,
my friends. It makes a bachelor feel awkward.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">And neither Mr. nor Mrs. Skratdj could help laughing.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">With the little Skratdjs his measures were more vigorous. He
was very fond of children, and a good friend to them. He grudged no time or trouble
to help them in their games and projects, but he would not tolerate their
snapping up each other’s Words in his presence. He was much more truly kind
than many visitors, who think it polite to smile at the sauciness and
forwardness which ignorant vanity leads children so often to "shew off”
before strangers. These civil acquaintances only abuse both children and
parents behind their backs, for the very bad habits which they help to
encourage.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The hot-tempered gentleman's treatment of his young friends
was very different. One day he was talking to Polly, and making some kind inquiries
about her lessons, to which she was replying in a quiet and sensible fashion,
when up came Master Harry, and began to display his wit by comments on the
conversation, and by snapping at and contradicting his sister’s remarks, to which
she retorted; and the usual snap-dialogue went on as usual.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Then you like music?” said the hot-tempered gentleman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Yes, I like it very much,” said Polly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, do you?” Harry broke in. "Then what are you
always crying over it for?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I’m not always crying over it.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Yes, you are.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”No, I’m not. I only cry sometimes, when I stick fast.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Your music must be very sticky, for you're always
stuck fast.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Hold your tongue!” said the hot-tempered gentleman.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">With what he imagined to be a very waggish air, Harry put
out his tongue, and held it with his finger and thumb. It was unfortunate that
he had not time to draw it in again before the hot-tempered gentleman gave him
a stinging box on the ear, which brought his teeth rather sharply together on
the tip of his tongue, which was bitten in consequence.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"It’s no use speaking,” said the hot-tempered
gentleman, driving his hands through his hair. Children are like dogs: they are
very good judges of their real friends.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Harry did not like the hot-tempered gentleman a bit the less
because he was obliged to respect and obey him; and all the children welcomed
him boisterously when he arrived that Christmas which we have spoken of in connection
with his attack on Snap.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />It was on the morning of Christmas Eve that the china punch
bowl was broken. Mr. Skratdj had a warm dispute with Mrs. Skratdj as to whether
it had been kept in a safe place; after which both had a brisk encounter with
the housemaid, who did not know how it happened; and she, flouncing down the
back passage, kicked Snap; who forthwith flew at the gardener as he was
bringing in the horse-radish for the beef; who stepping backwards trode upon
the cat; who spit and swore, and went up the pump with her tail as big as a
fox’s brush.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">To avoid this domestic scene, the hot-tempered gentleman
withdrew to the breakfast-room and took up a newspaper. By-and-by, Harry and Polly
came in, and they were soon snapping comfortably over their own affairs in a
corner.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The hot-tempered gentleman's umber eyes had been looking
over the top of his newspaper at them for some time, before he called,
"Harry, my boy!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">And Harry came up to him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Show me your tongue, Harry,” said he.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"What for?” said Harry; "you're not a doctor.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Do as I tell you,” said the hot-tempered gentleman; and as
Harry saw his hand moving, he put his tongue out with all possible haste. The
hot- tempered gentleman sighed. ”Ah!” he said in depressed tones; "I
thought so!—Polly, come and let me look at yours.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Polly, who had crept up during this process, now put out
hers. But the hot-tempered gentleman looked gloomier still, and shook his head.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"What is it?” cried both the children, "What do
you mean?” And they seized the tips of their tongues in their fingers, to feel
for themselves.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">But the hot-tempered gentleman went slowly out of the room
without answering; passing his hands through his hair, and saying, "Ah!
Hum!” and nodding with an air of grave foreboding.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Just as he crossed the threshold, he turned back, and put
his head into the room. ”Have you ever noticed that your tongues are growing
pointed?" he asked.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”No!” cried the children with alarm. ”Are they?"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"If ever you find them becoming forked,” said the
gentleman in solemn tones, ”let me know.” with which he departed, gravely
shaking his head.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In the afternoon the children attacked him again.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Do tell us what's the matter with our tongues.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You were snapping and squabbling just as usual this
morning,” said the hot-tempered gentleman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Well, we forgot,” said Polly. ”We don't mean anything,
you know. But never mind that now, please. Tell us about our tongues. What is
going to happen to them?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I’m very much afraid,” said the hot-tempered gentleman, in
solemn, measured tones, "that you are both of you—fast—going—to—the—"</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Dogs?" suggested Harry, who was learned in cant
expressions.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Dogs!" said the hot-tempered gentleman, driving
his hands through his hair. "Bless your life, no! Nothing half so
pleasant! (That is, unless all dogs were like Snap, Which mercifully they are
not.) No, my sad fear is that you are, both of you, rapidly going to the
Snap-Dragons!” And not another Word would the hot-tempered gentleman say on the
subject.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">CHRISTMAS
EVE</span></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In the course of a few hours Mr. and Mrs. Skratdj recovered
their equanimity. The punch was brewed in a jug, and tasted quite as good as usual.
The evening was very lively. There were a Christmas tree, Yule cakes, log, and
candles, furmety, and snap-dragon after supper. When the company were tired of
the tree, and had gained an appetite by the hard exercise of stretching to high
branches, blowing out "dangerous" tapers, and cutting ribbon and
pack-thread in all directions, supper came, with its welcome cakes, and
furmety, and punch.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> And when furmety somewhat palled upon the taste (and it
must be admitted to boast more sentiment than flavour as a Christmas dish), the
Yule candles were blown out and both the spirits and the palates of the party were
stimulated by the mysterious and pungent pleasures of snap-dragon.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Then, as the hot-tempered gentleman warmed his coat-tails at
the Yule log, a grim smile stole over his features as he listened to the sounds
in the room. In the darkness the blue flames leaped and danced, the raisins were
snapped and snatched from hand to hand, scattering fragments of flame hither
and thither. The children shouted as the fiery sweetmeats burnt away the
mawkish taste of the furmety. Mr. Skratdj cried that they were spoiling the
carpet; Mrs. Skratdj complained that he had spilled some brandy on her dress.
Mr. Skratdj retorted that she should not wear dresses so susceptible of damage
in the family circle. Mrs. Skratdj recalled an old speech of Mr. Skratdj on the
subject of wearing one’s nice things for the benefit of one’s family and not
reserving them for visitors. Mr. Skratdj remembered that Mrs. Skratdj’s excuse
for buying that particular dress when she did not need it, was her intention of </span><span style="font-size: large;">keeping it for the next year. The children disputed as to
the credit for courage and the amount of raisins due to each. Snap barked
furiously the flames; and the maids hustled each other for good places in the doorway,
and would not have allowed the man-servant to see at all, but he looked over
their heads.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”St! St! At it! At it!" chuckled the hot-tempered
gentleman in undertones. And when he said that it seemed as if the voices of Mr.
and Mrs. Skratdj rose higher in matrimonial repartee and the children's
squabbles became louder, and the dog yelped as if he were mad, and the maids’
contest was sharper; whilst the snap-dragon flames leaped up and up, and blue
fire flew about the room like foam.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">At last the raisins were finished, the flames were all but
out, and the company withdrew to the drawing-room. Only Harry lingered.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Come along, Harry,” said the hot-tempered gentleman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Wait a minute,” said Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You had better come,” said the gentleman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Why?" said Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"There's nothing to stop for. The raisins are eaten;
the brandy is burnt out—”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”No, it's not,” said Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Well, almost. It would be better if it were quite out.
Now come. It's dangerous for a boy like you to be alone with the Snap-Dragons
to- night."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Fiddle-sticks!" said Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Go your own way, then!" said the hot-tempered
gentleman; and he bounced out of the room, and Harry was left alone.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">DANCING
WITH THE DRAGONS</span></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He crept up to the table, where one little pale blue flame flickered
in the snap-dragon dish.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"What a pity it should go out!” said Harry. At this
moment the brandy bottle on the side-board caught his eye.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Just a little more,” murmured Harry to himself; and he
uncorked the bottle, and poured a little brandy on to the flame.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Now, of course, as soon as the brandy touched the fire, all
the brandy in the bottle blazed up at once, and the bottle split to pieces; and
it was very fortunate for Harry that he did not get seriously hurt. A little of
the hot brandy did get into his eyes, and made them smart, so that he had to shut
them for a few seconds. But when he opened them again; what a sight! The blue
flames leaped and danced as they had leaped and danced in the soup-plate with
the raisins. And Harry saw that each successive flame was the fold in the long
body of a bright blue Dragon, which moved like the body of a snake. And the
room was full of these Dragons. In the face they were like the dragons one sees
made of very old blue and white china; and they had forked tongues, like the
tongues of serpents. They were most beautiful in colour, being sky-blue.
Lobsters that have just changed their coats are very handsome, but the violet
and indigo of a lobster’s coat is nothing to the brilliant sky-blue of a
Snap-Dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">How they leaped about! They were forever leaping over each
other, like seals at play. But if it was ‘play’ at all with them, it was of a
very rough kind; for as they jumped, they snapped and barked at each other, and
their barking was like that of the barking Gnu in the Zoological Gardens; and
from time to time they tore the hair out of each other’s heads with their
claws, and scattered it about the floor. And as it dropped it was like the flecks
of flame people shake from their fingers when they are eating snap-dragon
raisins.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Harry stood aghast.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"What fun!” said a voice close by him; and he saw that
one of the Dragons was lying near, and not joining in the game. He had lost one
of the forks of his tongue by accident, and could not bark for awhile.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I’m glad you think it funny,” said Harry; "I don’t.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Yes, those creatures. And if I hadn't lost my bark, I’d be
the first to lead you off,” said the Dragon. ”Oh, the game will exactly suit
you.”</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”What is it, please?” Harry asked.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You’d better not say ’please’ to the others,"
said the Dragon, "if you don’t want to have all your hair pulled out. The
game is this. You have always to be jumping over somebody else, and you must
either talk or bark. If anybody speaks to you, you must snap in return. I need
not explain what snapping is. You know. If anyone by accident gives a civil answer,
a clawful of hair is torn out of his head to stimulate his brain. Nothing can
be funnier."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”I dare say it suits you capitally,” said Harry; "but
I'm sure we shouldn't like it. I mean men and women and children. It wouldn’t
do for us at all.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Wouldn’t it?” said the Dragon. ”You don’t know how many
human beings dance with dragons on Christmas Eve. If we are kept going in a house
till after midnight, we can pull people out of their beds, and take them to
dance in Vesuvius."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Vesuvius!" cried Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Yes, Vesuvius. We come from Italy originally, you
know. Our skins are the colour of the Bay of Naples. We live on dried grapes
and ardent spirits. We have glorious fun in the mountain sometimes. Oh! What snapping,
and scratching, and tearing! Delicious! There are times when the squabbling
becomes too great, and Mother Mountain won’t stand it, and spits us all out,
and throws cinders after us. But this is only at times. We had a charming
meeting last year. So many human beings, and how they can snap! It was a choice
party. So very select. We always have plenty of saucy children, and servants.
Husbands and wives too, and quite as many of the former as the latter, if not
more. But besides these, we had two vestry-men, a country postmaster, who
devoted his talents to insulting the public instead of to learning the postal
regulations, three cabmen and two "fares," two young shop-girls from
a Berlin wool shop in a town where there was no competition, four commercial travellers,
six landladies, six Old Bailey lawyers, several widows from almshouses, seven
single gentlemen and nine cats, who swore at everything; a dozen
sulphur-coloured screaming cockatoos; a lot of street children from a town; a
pack of mongrel curs from the colonies, who snapped at the human beings’ heels,
and five elderly ladies in their </span><span style="font-size: large;">Sunday bonnets with Prayer-books, who had been fighting for
good seats in church."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Dear me!” said Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"If you can find nothing sharper to say than ’Dear me!”
said the Dragon, ”you will fare badly, I can tell you. Why, I thought you’d a
sharp tongue, but it's not forked yet, I see. Here they are, however. Off with
you! And if you value your curls—Snap!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">And before Harry could reply, the Snap-Dragons came in on
their third round, and as they passed they swept Harry with them.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">He shuddered as he looked at his companions. They were as
transparent as shrimps, but of this lovely cerulean blue. And as they leaped
they barked—”Howf! Howf‘?”—like barking Gnus; and when they leaped Harry had to
leap with them. Besides barking, they snapped and wrangled with each other; and
in this Harry must join also.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Pleasant, isn't it?” said one of the blue Dragons.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Not at all,” snapped Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"That's your bad taste," snapped the blue Dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"> "No, it's not!”
snapped Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Then it’s pride and perverseness. You want your hair
combing.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, please don't!” shrieked Harry, forgetting himself.
On which the Dragon clawed a handful of hair out of his head, and Harry
screamed, and the blue Dragons barked and danced.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"That made your hair curl, didn't it?” asked another
Dragon, leaping over Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”That's no business of yours,” Harry snapped, as well as he
could for crying.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”It’s more my pleasure than business,” retorted the Dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Keep it to yourself, then,” snapped Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I mean to share it with you, when I get hold of your
hair,” snapped the Dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Wait till you get the chance," Harry snapped,
with desperate presence of mind.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Do you know whom you're talking to?” roared the
Dragon; and he opened his mouth from ear to ear, and shot out his forked tongue
in Harry's face; and the boy was so frightened that he forgot to snap, and cried
piteously:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Oh, I beg your pardon, please don't! On which the blue
Dragon clawed another handful of hair out of his head, and all the Dragons
barked as before.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">How long the dreadful game went on Harry never exactly knew.
Well practised as he was in snapping in the nursery, he often failed to think
of a retort, and paid for his unreadiness by the loss of his hair. Oh, how foolish
and wearisome all this rudeness and snapping now seemed to him! But on he had
to go, wondering all the time how near it was to twelve o'clock, and whether
the Snap-Dragons would stay till midnight and take him with them to Vesuvius.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">At last, to his joy, it became evident that the brandy was
coming to an end. The Dragons moved slower, they could not leap so high, and at
last one after another they began to go out.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Oh, if they only all of them get away before twelve!”
thought poor Harry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">At last there was only one. He and Harry jumped about and
snapped and barked, and Harry was thinking with joy that he was the last, when
the clock in the hall gave that whirring sound which some clocks do before they
strike, as if it were clearing its throat.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, please go!” screamed Harry, in despair.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The blue Dragon leaped up, and took such a clawful of hair
out of the boy’s head, that it seemed as if part of the skin went, too. But
that leap was his last. He went out at once, vanishing before the first stroke
of twelve. And Harry was left on his face on the floor in the darkness.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c6Bx8B1H9t4/VJpDbP2_SMI/AAAAAAAAdFM/fPQD42Zwkcs/s1600/PC190027%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c6Bx8B1H9t4/VJpDbP2_SMI/AAAAAAAAdFM/fPQD42Zwkcs/s1600/PC190027%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">CONCLUSION</span></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">When his friends found him there was blood on his forehead.
Harry thought it was where the Dragon had clawed him, but they said it was a cut
from a fragment of the broken brandy bottle. The Dragons had disappeared as
completely as the brandy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Harry was cured of snapping. He had had quite enough of it
for a lifetime, and the catch-contradictions of the household now made him shudder.
Polly had not had the benefit of his experiences, and yet she improved also.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">In the first place, snapping, like other kinds of
quarrelling, requires two parties to it, and Harry would never be a party to
snapping any more. And when he gave civil and kind answers to Polly’s smart speeches,
she felt ashamed of herself, and did not repeat them. In the second place, she
heard about the Snap-Dragons. Harry told all about it to her and to the
hot-tempered gentleman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">”Now do you think it's true?” Polly asked the hot—tempered
gentleman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Hum! Ha!” said he, driving his hands through his hair.
"You know I warned you, you were going to the Snap-Dragons.”</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Harry and Polly snubbed ‘the little ones’ when they snapped,
and utterly discountenanced snapping in the nursery. The example and admonitions
of elder children are a powerful instrument of nursery discipline, and before
long there was not a ”sharp tongue” amongst all the little Skratdjs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">But I doubt if the parents ever were cured. I don’t know if
they heard the story. Besides, bad habits are not easily cured when one is old.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I fear Mr. and Mrs. Skratdj have yet got to dance with the
Dragons.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDIImZ2dqS0/VJpDYvG7VjI/AAAAAAAAdEs/-9F9NoK8UFQ/s1600/IMG_0051.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDIImZ2dqS0/VJpDYvG7VjI/AAAAAAAAdEs/-9F9NoK8UFQ/s1600/IMG_0051.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The End</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8LeeAud238M/VJpDgPbvMII/AAAAAAAAdGQ/ksUwW_DHVa4/s1600/PC190241.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8LeeAud238M/VJpDgPbvMII/AAAAAAAAdGQ/ksUwW_DHVa4/s1600/PC190241.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Good night, everyone and a Merry Christmas to all.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Posted by Bo Caunce</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">(Digital Artworks by Steve Caunce </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">Pictures by Bo Caunce)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h2><br /></h2>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-66348740453229118002021-04-12T18:02:00.003-04:002021-04-12T23:52:33.707-04:00<p><i><b> </b></i></p><h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Last of the
Dragons </span></b></i></span></h1><div><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></i></span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RANTGS8t2-o/YHS_t6FTa9I/AAAAAAADG-4/atFoLLnOp8YZE9XElRjlgAT3ux4IHqj-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25284%25291200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1200" height="272" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RANTGS8t2-o/YHS_t6FTa9I/AAAAAAADG-4/atFoLLnOp8YZE9XElRjlgAT3ux4IHqj-ACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h272/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25284%25291200.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br /><b><br /></b></i><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><b>( Public Domain Story)</b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>Of course
you know that dragons were once as common as motor-omnibuses are now, and
almost as dangerous. But as every well-brought-up prince was expected to kill a
dragon, and rescue a princess, the dragons grew fewer and fewer till it was
often quite hard for a princess to find a dragon to be rescued from. And at
last there were no more dragons in France and no more dragons in Germany, or
Spain, or Italy, or Russia. There were some left in China, and are still, but they
are cold and bronzy, and there were never any, of course, in America. But the
last real live dragon left was in England, and of course that was a very long
time ago, before what you call English History began. This dragon lived in
Cornwall in the big caves amidst the rocks, and a very fine dragon it was,
quite seventy feet long from the tip of its fearful snout to the end of its
terrible tail. It breathed fire and smoke, and rattled when it walked, because
its scales were made of iron. Its wings were like half-umbrellas -- or like
bat's wings, only several thousand times bigger. Everyone was very frightened
of it, and well they might be.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>Now the King
of Cornwall had one daughter, and when she was sixteen, of course she would
have to go and face the dragon: such tales are always told in royal nurseries
at twilight, so the Princess knew what she had to expect. The dragon would not
eat her, of course -- because the prince would come and rescue her. But the
Princess could not help thinking it would be much pleasanter to have nothing to
do with the dragon at all -- not even to be rescued from him. `All the princes
I know are such very silly little boys,' she told her father. `Why must I be
rescued by a prince?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`It's always
done, my dear,' said the King, taking his crown off and putting it on the
grass, for they were alone in the garden, and even kings must unbend sometimes.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Father,
darling,' said the Princess presently, when she had made a daisy chain and put
it on the King's head, where the crown ought to have been. `Father, darling,
couldn't we tie up one of the silly little princes for the dragon to look at --
and then I could go and kill the dragon and rescue the prince? I fence much
better than any of the princes we know.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9T3dMY8j3Nv0tFGH11P4rFSkKqMokd3tUPJhUv4E9dON8B3-gI76iFng8DC4TiJ55h1hz57s_5mhJZyoOdO5T94JLSwr6LGAEUHrQT7OFWT_YFFEXKTMHIXhyphenhyphenu4fl8LoJ8-xHl-glqrg/s1397/Princess-Warrior-4-Final%252C-final-Painting--1200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1397" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9T3dMY8j3Nv0tFGH11P4rFSkKqMokd3tUPJhUv4E9dON8B3-gI76iFng8DC4TiJ55h1hz57s_5mhJZyoOdO5T94JLSwr6LGAEUHrQT7OFWT_YFFEXKTMHIXhyphenhyphenu4fl8LoJ8-xHl-glqrg/w344-h400/Princess-Warrior-4-Final%252C-final-Painting--1200.jpg" width="344" /></a></i></div><i><br /><b><br /></b></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`What an
unladylike idea!' said the King, and put his crown on again, for he saw the
Prime Minister coming with a basket of new-laid Bills for him to sign. `Dismiss
the thought, my child. I rescued your mother from a dragon, and you don't want
to set yourself up above her, I should hope?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`But this is
the last dragon. It is different from all other dragons.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`How?' asked
the King.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Because he
is the last,' said the Princess, and went off to her fencing lessons, with
which she took great pains. She took great pains with all her lessons -- for
she could not give up the idea of fighting the dragon. She took such pains that
she became the strongest and boldest and most skilful and most sensible
princess in Europe. She had always been the prettiest and nicest.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>And the days
and years went on, till at last the day came which was the day before the
Princess was to be rescued from the dragon. The Prince who was to do this deed
of valour was a pale prince, with large eyes and a head full of mathematics and
philosophy, but he had unfortunately neglected his fencing lessons. He was to
stay the night at the palace, and there was a banquet.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>After supper
the Princess sent her pet parrot to the Prince with a note. It said:<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>Please,
Prince, come on to the terrace. I want to talk to you without anybody else
hearing. --The Princess.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>So, of
course, he went -- and he saw her gown of silver a long way off shining among
the shadows of the trees like water in starlight. And when he came quite close
to her he said: `Princess, at your service,' and bent his cloth-of-gold-covered
knee and put his hand on his cloth-of-gold-covered heart.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Do you
think,' said the Princess earnestly, `that you will be able to kill the
dragon?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`I will kill
the dragon,' said the Prince firmly, `or perish in the attempt.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`It's no use
your perishing,' said the Princess.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`It's the
least I can do,' said the Prince.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`What I'm
afraid of is that it'll be the most you can do,' said the Princess.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`It's the
only thing I can do,' said he, `unless I kill the dragon.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Why you
should do anything for me is what I can't see,' said she.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`But I want
to,' he said. `You must know that I love you better than anything in the
world.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>When he said
that he looked so kind that the Princess began to like him a little.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Look here,'
she said, `no one else will go out tomorrow. You know they tie me to a rock and
leave me -- and then everybody scurries home and puts up the shutters and keeps
them shut till you ride through the town in triumph shouting that you've killed
the dragon, and I ride on the horse behind you weeping for joy.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`I've heard
that that is how it is done,' said he.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Well, do
you love me well enough to come very quickly and set me free -- and we'll fight
the dragon together?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>'It wouldn't
be safe for you.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Much safer
for both of us for me to be free, with a sword in my hand, than tied up and
helpless. Do agree.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>He could
refuse her nothing. So he agreed. And next day everything happened as she had
said.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>When he had
cut the cords that tied her to the rock they stood on the lonely mountain-side
looking at each other.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`It seems to
me,' said the Prince, `that this ceremony could have been arranged without the
dragon.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Yes,' said
the Princess, `but since it has been arranged with the dragon --'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`It seems
such a pity to kill the dragon -- the last in the world,' said the Prince.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Well then,
don't let's,' said the Princess; `let's tame it not to eat princesses but to
eat out of their hands. They say everything can be tamed by kindness.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Taming by
kindness means giving them things to eat,' said the Prince. `Have you got
anything to eat?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>She hadn't,
but the Prince owned that he had a few biscuits. `Breakfast was so very early,'
said he, `and I thought you might have felt faint after the fight.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`How
clever,' said the Princess, and they took a biscuit in each hand. And they
looked here, and they looked there, but never a dragon could they see.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`But here's
its trail,' said the Prince, and pointed to where the rock was scarred and
scratched so as to make a track leading to a dark cave. It was like cart-ruts
in a Sussex road, mixed with the marks of sea-gull's feet on the sea-sand.
`Look, that's where it's dragged its brass tail and planted its steel claws.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Don't let's
think how hard its tail and claws are,' said the Princess, `or I shall begin to
be frightened -- and I know you can't tame anything, even by kindness, if
you're frightened of it. Come on. Now or never.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>She caught
the Prince's hand in hers and they ran along the path towards the dark mouth of
the cave. But they did not run into it. It really was so very dark.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>So they
stood outside, and the Prince shouted: `What ho! Dragon there! What ho within!'
And from the cave they heard an answering voice and great clattering and
creaking. It sounded as though a rather large cotton-mill were stretching
itself and waking up out of its sleep.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>The Prince
and the Princess trembled, but they stood firm.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Dragon -- I
say, dragon!' said the Princess, `do come out and talk to us. We've brought you
a present.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Oh yes -- I
know your presents,' growled the dragon in a huge rumbling voice. `One of those
precious princesses, I suppose? And I've got to come out and fight for her.
Well, I tell you straight, I'm not going to do it. A fair fight I wouldn't say
no to -- a fair fight and no favour -- but one of those put-up fights where you've
got to lose -- no! So I tell you. If I wanted a princess I'd come and take her,
in my own time -- but I don't. What do you suppose I'd do with her, if I'd got
her?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Eat her,
wouldn't you?' said the Princess, in a voice that trembled a little.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Eat a fiddle-stick
end,' said the dragon very rudely. `I wouldn't touch the horrid thing.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>The
Princess's voice grew firmer.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Do you like
biscuits?' she said.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`No,'
growled the dragon.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Not the
nice little expensive ones with sugar on the top?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`No,'
growled the dragon.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Then what
do you like?' asked the Prince.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`You go away
and don't bother me,' growled the dragon, and they could hear it turn over, and
the clang and clatter of its turning echoed in the cave like the sound of the
steam-hammers in the Arsenal at Woolwich.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>The Prince
and Princess looked at each other. What were they to do? Of course it was no
use going home and telling the King that the dragon didn't want princesses --
because His Majesty was very old-fashioned and would never have believed that a
new-fashioned dragon could ever be at all different from an old-fashioned
dragon. They could not go into the cave and kill the dragon. Indeed, unless he
attacked the Princess it did not seem fair to kill him at all.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`He must
like something,' whispered the Princess, and she called out in a voice as sweet
as honey and sugar-cane:<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Dragon!
Dragon dear!'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`WHAT?'
shouted the dragon. `Say that again!' and they could hear the dragon coming
towards them through the darkness of the cave. The Princess shivered, and said
in a very small voice:<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Dragon --
Dragon dear!'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>And then the
dragon came out. The Prince drew his sword, and the Princess drew hers -- the
beautiful silver-handled one that the Prince had brought in his motor-car. But
they did not attack; they moved slowly back as the dragon came out, all the
vast scaly length of him, and lay along the rock -- his great wings half spread
and his silvery sheen gleaming like diamonds in the sun. At last they could
retreat no further -- the dark rock behind them stopped their way -- and with
their backs to the rock they stood swords in hand and waited.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>The dragon
grew nearer and nearer -- and now they could see that he was not breathing fire
and smoke as they had expected -- he came crawling slowly towards them
wriggling a little as a puppy does when it wants to play and isn't quite sure
whether you're not cross with it.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbw5EV4hmy1A5q2iWoVwN_RS02hBUU3z4OjlitD-2sMHE_lUX3q_1dH7P7qy7SBp4eCuFc2aOda1HOkwCL7mPqBe8bqB4O4-4RkOSeLYUCp_CZUUB-ptQzA7ySu7puKhiYfPBhbnsx7F0/s1200/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25283%2529--1200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbw5EV4hmy1A5q2iWoVwN_RS02hBUU3z4OjlitD-2sMHE_lUX3q_1dH7P7qy7SBp4eCuFc2aOda1HOkwCL7mPqBe8bqB4O4-4RkOSeLYUCp_CZUUB-ptQzA7ySu7puKhiYfPBhbnsx7F0/w640-h362/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25283%2529--1200.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>And then
they saw that great tears were coursing down its brazen cheek.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Whatever's
the matter?' said the Prince.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Nobody,'
sobbed the dragon, `ever called me "dear" before!'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Don't cry,
dragon dear,' said the Princess. `We'll call you "dear" as often as
you like. We want to tame you.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`I am tame,'
said the dragon -- `that's just it. That's what nobody but you has ever found
out. I'm so tame that I'd eat out of your hands.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Eat what,
dragon dear?' said the Princess. `Not biscuits?' The dragon slowly shook his
heavy head.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Not
biscuits?' said the Princess tenderly. `What, then, dragon dear?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`Your
kindness quite undragons me,' it said. `No one has ever asked any of us what we
like to eat -- always offering us princesses, and then rescuing them -- and
never once, "What'll you take to drink the King's health in?" Cruel
hard I call it,' and it wept again.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`But what
would you like to drink our health in?' said the Prince. `We're going to be
married today, aren't we, Princess?'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>She said
that she supposed so.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`What'll I
take to drink your health in?' asked the dragon. `Ah, you're something like a
gentleman, you are, sir. I don't mind if I do, sir. I'll be proud to drink you
and your good lady's health in a tiny drop of' -- its voice faltered -- `to
think of you asking me so friendly like,' it said. `Yes, sir, just a tiny drop
of puppuppuppuppupetrol -- tha-that's what does a dragon good, sir --'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`I've lots
in the car,' said the Prince, and was off down the mountain in a flash. He was
a good judge of character and knew that with this dragon the Princess would be
safe.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><b style="font-size: 12pt;">`If I might
make so bold,' said the dragon, `while the gentleman's away -- p'raps just to
pass the time you'd be so kind as to call me Dear again, and if you'd shake
claws with a poor old dragon that's never been anybody's enemy but his own --
well, the last of the </b><b>dragons will</b><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> be the proudest dragon that's ever been since
the first of them.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>It held out
an enormous paw, and the great steel hooks that were its claws closed over the
Princess's hand as softly as the claws of the Himalayan bear will close over
the bit of bun you hand it through the bars at the Zoo.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fxlBmhnokz4/YHTCRgT376I/AAAAAAADG_Y/nehRFBdVgDIJwkd7IzS-bR6G4BTQo5JSQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25281%2529--1200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="1200" height="272" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fxlBmhnokz4/YHTCRgT376I/AAAAAAADG_Y/nehRFBdVgDIJwkd7IzS-bR6G4BTQo5JSQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h272/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25281%2529--1200.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br /><b><br /></b></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>And so the
Prince and Princess went back to the palace in triumph, the dragon following
them like a pet dog. And all through the wedding festivities no one drank more
earnestly to the happiness of the bride and bridegroom than the Princess's pet
dragon -- whom she had at once named Fido.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>And when the
happy pair were settled in their own kingdom, Fido came to them and begged to
be allowed to make himself useful.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>`There must
be some little thing I can do,' he said, rattling his wings and stretching his
claws. `My wings and claws and so on ought to be turned to some account -- to
say nothing of my grateful heart.'<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>So the
Prince had a special saddle or howdah made for him -- very long it was -- like
the tops of many tramcars fitted together. One hundred and fifty seats were
fitted to this, and the dragon, whose greatest pleasure was now to give
pleasure to others, delighted in taking parties of children to the seaside. It
flew through the air quite easily with its hundred and fifty little passengers
-- and would lie on the sand patiently waiting till they were ready to return.
The children were very fond of it, and used to call it Dear, a word which never
failed to bring tears of affection and gratitude to its eyes. So it lived,
useful and respected, till quite the other day -- when someone happened to say,
in his hearing, that dragons were out-of-date, now so much new machinery had
come in. This so distressed him that he asked the King to change him into
something less old-fashioned, and the kindly monarch at once changed him into a
mechanical contrivance. The dragon, indeed, became the first aeroplane.<o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViuuD0_5IDc/YHTBz_1yKaI/AAAAAAADG_Q/OyYeMKEZ8uMKXDq1QL6-sZigFKaKFVcnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25282%25291200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1200" height="512" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViuuD0_5IDc/YHTBz_1yKaI/AAAAAAADG_Q/OyYeMKEZ8uMKXDq1QL6-sZigFKaKFVcnwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h512/Digital-Art-by-Steve-Caunce-%25282%25291200.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br /><b><br /></b></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><b>The End.</b></i></p>Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-29420707853513196002020-10-30T00:33:00.002-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.008-04:00Mythical World of Dragons <h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;"> <u><span style="color: #cc0000;">Mythical World of Dragons</span></u></span></h1><div><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WnLRFEh4K-g/X5uPWD0GhOI/AAAAAAADGAs/BymV1v08JKkO3-NWhPkoofZ2wOgMkeaEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s800/Fire%2BEscape.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WnLRFEh4K-g/X5uPWD0GhOI/AAAAAAADGAs/BymV1v08JKkO3-NWhPkoofZ2wOgMkeaEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Fire%2BEscape.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;">Just in time for Halloween!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;">Dare to Imagine?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;">Mythical world of Dragons exists in daily life, unseen!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F57k0rWVWUo/X5uPWCWveOI/AAAAAAADGAo/OzonYpf28kssGR2VJhl4UPR_fm2-mlpmgCLcBGAsYHQ/s800/Lurking.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="365" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F57k0rWVWUo/X5uPWCWveOI/AAAAAAADGAo/OzonYpf28kssGR2VJhl4UPR_fm2-mlpmgCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Lurking.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oqPxetL8GQk/X5uPWnX9QeI/AAAAAAADGA0/i2wqiV8K2EU2Dbgl-Zhjc591hdsxOtbswCLcBGAsYHQ/s800/Orbit%2Bweb.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oqPxetL8GQk/X5uPWnX9QeI/AAAAAAADGA0/i2wqiV8K2EU2Dbgl-Zhjc591hdsxOtbswCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Orbit%2Bweb.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bxp85iWtu8CGOqcITLFXDbOXphBvAGkdrfocV9_csVHH6a9aUe3Xk7vfAiIVBxuLTY6Up7v3pBU-LUAbXFwYjOsexKmPps94NlgZzoMQgjht1STO4Fg3S6LwmG2YAIZhM1ipS_zQkfM/s800/W-The+Long+Way+Home.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bxp85iWtu8CGOqcITLFXDbOXphBvAGkdrfocV9_csVHH6a9aUe3Xk7vfAiIVBxuLTY6Up7v3pBU-LUAbXFwYjOsexKmPps94NlgZzoMQgjht1STO4Fg3S6LwmG2YAIZhM1ipS_zQkfM/s16000/W-The+Long+Way+Home.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-iwwN2Z9vtvegFhzEfEAYFCHJfaPyLiho3XQ4T-XVmri_0E1zIBibFJ57lP-EeCyJanW7cSdXyYFUAFTYzjj6nAhLKPHKfx6MHUQHQWnqWl1SGCsQf9G_Pgq-AdJS_9tBN20IikZE-U/s800/w-The-Morning-When-the-Dragon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-iwwN2Z9vtvegFhzEfEAYFCHJfaPyLiho3XQ4T-XVmri_0E1zIBibFJ57lP-EeCyJanW7cSdXyYFUAFTYzjj6nAhLKPHKfx6MHUQHQWnqWl1SGCsQf9G_Pgq-AdJS_9tBN20IikZE-U/s16000/w-The-Morning-When-the-Dragon.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyekrbXLZqhsLQtWQlE9qtQbPdT-gsR8Tz9z1ORmj6jwp0SSo09KDWvAwz22QQrzCwnjuNaDWpW-QP9-1W0RrtYaNTo-mEO_dExvd-EGSvLeS6PXCcxImtHQ0V6UTa7rnJ_NZ7DUR120o/s800/In+the+Alley.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyekrbXLZqhsLQtWQlE9qtQbPdT-gsR8Tz9z1ORmj6jwp0SSo09KDWvAwz22QQrzCwnjuNaDWpW-QP9-1W0RrtYaNTo-mEO_dExvd-EGSvLeS6PXCcxImtHQ0V6UTa7rnJ_NZ7DUR120o/s16000/In+the+Alley.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;">In this video, d</span><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: large;">igital art by Steve Caunce depicts the ever present Dragons in day to day life and, their imagined, mythical world . It is set to Royalty Free music by Kevin MacLeod. The music is titled: "In the Light" </span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyAfGImc2aDnJsjjihnmFkBo8JSPJIedXhwjEWrCxWRJq7UUFi-HXuGiG3R3olcmRv6coucPycSM-ZtaDJXDg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You can also see this on YouTube</span>- </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Just Click on the link:</span> <a href="https://youtu.be/oX4fMDz8o8s">https://youtu.be/oX4fMDz8o8s</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large; line-height: 115%;">Halloween originally
known as “All Hallows' Eve” or” All Saints' Eve”, is an age-old tradition that was once celebrated by Celtic
peoples. Ancient Celtic harvest festivals, particularly the Gaelic festival
Samhain, decidedly have had their pagan roots. Later on Samhain may have been Christianized
and so resultantly it became known as All Hallows Day. This particular time was dedicated to remembering the
dead, including saints (hallows) martyrs, and all the faithful that had been departed.
Did you know that some Christians </span><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: x-large;">historically abstained from eating meat
on "All Hallows' Eve"? Instead, the traditional preference went with the vegetarian foods on this vigil day, including apples, potato pancakes, and soul
cakes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: large;">Halloween <span style="line-height: 115%;">is
usually observed on 31 October; however, this year because of the COVID 19,
this annual event will most certainly be postponed. But you can still celebrate it, by creative
ways, safely at home.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Lobster; font-size: large;">Happy Halloween. </span></span></p></div><br /><div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.383184315.342992163821151 -114.5394343 71.963459836178842 -44.226934299999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-4326001879423484302018-08-25T23:59:00.000-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.030-04:00Hungry Ghost Period in 2018 - Kiyohime and the Heartless Priest <h2 style="text-align: center;">
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Many people believe in the existence of ghosts. Furthermore, they believe that anyone who meets their end violently or is guilty of some crime or sin when they die, do not go to Heaven or Hell but rather get trapped as lost souls or ghosts in the Earthly Realm, preying on or disrupting the lives of vulnerable individuals. Those who have perished rather unexpectedly through accidents or catastrophe, particularly during this Hungry Ghost period, are also considered to have been taken away by Ghosts. <br /><br />This is pretty scary, right? Wait, there is still more: During the Hungry Ghost time, which falls on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month, the gates of Hell are supposedly opened wide allowing those other restless and spiteful spirits with their vendettas to escape into the Realm of the Living. Is it any wonder that superstitious folks are filled with such trepidation and dread during this time? <br /><br />The night-time, early morning, and late night are considered a particularly vulnerable time and most dangerous as these vengeful ghosts and other evil spirits are at their most potent then. <br /><br /> To overcome this pervasive fear, perhaps to placate evil spirits and to ensure one’s safety, the Hungry Ghost period is generally transformed into a lively Festival: This is a time where prayers are offered and sacrificial ceremonies are conducted in temples. The burning of incense and Hell-money at the roadside and the decoration of houses and halls with bright lanterns present a pretty picture. And let us not forget the lively performances by the theatrical troupes in open air banquets or street festivals that draw in the big crowds. On the last day of the 7th lunar month, the Gates of the Underworld then are supposed to close, containing these malevolent spirits till next year. </i><br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">To ensure further safety, here are few do and don’ts to follow: <br /><br />In the Ghost Month, particularly in the dark hours, evil spirits may target children, senior citizens, and weak or sensitive people; therefore they are advised to remain indoors. <br /><br />Also, it is advisable to avoid any risk by swimming in a body of water such as a pool, pond or the sea. And stay away from any supernatural acts or games. Why tempt fate? <br /><br />For those that are superstitious, keep items, such as amulets, prayer beads, coarse salt, glutinous rice, crosses and lodestones close at hand as an added protection from evil spirits. <br /><br />Be safe and have fun. </i><br />
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</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">According to Japanese folklore Kiyohime (or simply Kiyo) was the daughter of a village headman named Shōji, on the Hidaka riverbank. The family was wealthy enough to entertain and provide lodging for traveling priests, who often passed by on their way to a shrine famous for ascetic practices. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">One day a handsome visiting priest named Anchin, having arrived at dusk, accepted the gracious invitation to be Shoji’s guest for the night. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> He was served a sumptuous meal and, was treated very well all during the evening with his needs generously provided for. He was even given the best bedroom. Unfortunately during the course of the night his attention was taken by Shoji’s rather bashful, beautiful daughter Kiyo. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">As Anchin was rather a debonair, handsome young priest with suave manners and eloquent tongue, Kiyo quickly became smitten by him. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Anchin seeing that his feelings were reciprocated, and so wanting more time to get to know Kiyo, he deferred his morning departure and instead made up a plausible excuse so as to extend his stay for a few more days. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It was a beautiful time of year, when the Earth wore the bright coloured cloak of spring and frolicking birds and insects filled the air with cheerful melody. A few surreptitious, fervent meetings led to intimacy and Anachin, having totally lost his head, fell deeply in love with Kiyo. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;">Unfortunately Anchin, being a principled, devout individual most dedicated to his vocation, just as quickly snapped out of his infatuation and regained his senses,. From then on his demeanor was icy cold towards her and he refrained from any further covert meetings. Poor Kiyo wracked her brains for any explanation for this sudden change in Anchin and, failing to do so, fell into deep dismay. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> In her view she’d been taken advantage of and most cruelly and reprehensibly victimized by Anachin; especially since until then she had been virtuous and proper. The rejection by this heartless rogue Priest fed the furies of her emotions fanning them into intense hatred. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> When one afternoon Kiyohime was away visiting a neighbour, Anachin took advantage of her absence to escape this sticky situation. He quietly made his excuses to his host Shoji and quickly departed. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">She was incensed when she returned and found him already gone without a word. Beside herself, she dashed out of the house leaving her baffled father behind. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tears coursing down her cheeks she ran and ran in hot pursuit of the unfaithful lover, with her heart in a terrible grip of fiery rage. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Kiyohime eventually caught up with Anchin at the edge of the Hidaka River. Anchin, sighting her first, quickly hired the moored ferryman to help him across the river. Once on board, Anchin pressed the boatmen to gain speed. Paying him additional funds, he further cautioned the boatman not to let her cross after him. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Poor, distraught Kiyohime was crushed when she saw Anchin’s icy, heartless glare before he turned his face away to urge the boatmen for speed. She was so incensed; she bit her lip until blood trickled down her chin. Oblivious to her pain she dove into the rapid flowing river and started to swim towards them. She wanted some explanation, even a feeble excuse for his breaking his promise to her. While swimming in the torrent of the Hidaka River, thrashing this way and that, her heart was so filled with rage that it literally burst. Suddenly pitch darkness engulfed the waters. At that same moment she underwent a transformation, growing scales, becoming misshapen, and stretching until she turned into a fierce Dragon. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">When Anchin looked back and, this time, saw her in the altered state of a monstrous Dragon effortlessly gliding through the foamy tumultuous waters, his heart skipped a beat. Fortunately the boat had just reached the other shore. Bypassing the boatman who was trying to moor his craft, he simply jumped onto the shore. His feet firmly planted on the ground, he raced towards the temple called Dōjō-ji. His heart still in his mouth, sweating profusely and panting heavily, he begged the priests of Dōjōji for their cooperation and help in escaping this monster, the terrible evil spirit scourge that had taken on the form of a Dragon. They believed in Anchin and quickly lowered the bell of the temple to hide him under it. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Dragon at first hesitated to enter the temple. But then her icy breath blew open the enormous doors in a miasmic cloud of fog, dust and debris and she manifested inside. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Where is he?” She roared. But no one was there to answer her as all the priests had taken flight and hid. Her fiery breath could have razed the temple to the ground but she still retained some benevolence and instead forcefully restrained her wrath. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">She looked about her for a time, and then her keen sense picked up the frightened odor of Anchin quaking terribly, though well hidden, inside the giant bell. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Seething, the Dragon sliced through the air right across the room and coiled her enormous tail around the bell. She thrashed the bell loudly for several times. Anchin was nearly driven insane with all the noise and vibration. However he was trapped and deep down he knew he would pay for his sin. So he started to pray quietly for absolution. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Too late! </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For just then the Dragon having tired of this fruitless torment, gave a gigantic belch of fire that engulfed and quickly melted the bell with Anchin inside. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fin</span><br /><br /><br /><br /> </i></div>
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-33066994650611632452018-04-11T01:10:00.001-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.038-04:00Eyes Wide Open<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Eyes Wide Open </span></i></b></h2>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Many cultures throughout history have held similar beliefs that eyes, particularly the pupils, are “windows to the soul”. Here’s an original, fictional story that incorporates this particular insight. </i><br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Eyes Wide Open </u></span></i></h3>
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Orphaned at the age of three Tuan Yong was brought up by his paternal uncle Tuan Gang who had begrudgingly taken him in. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">His uncle Gang had an only son Tuan Min who happened to be six months older than Yong. Min had two elder half-sisters but, being the only male offspring, was terribly fawned upon and spoiled from birth. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A special tutor was engaged to educate both children but with a particular onus to give the most attention and care to Min. Yong was pretty much left to his own devices to learn whatever he can. However Yong had the propensity to develop into a fine, intelligent, young man with high moral fibre. Gifted with many exceptional abilities, generous to a fault in nature, as well as, possessing a rather statuesque, handsome physique, Yong had, in every imaginable way, far surpassed Min. To the further consternation of his uncle Gang, Yong also possessed added brilliance and aptitude with the literary and the fine arts. By simply tapping into his vast reserves of imagination on top of his natural keen insight into nature, Yong would produce with the least effort dazzling masterpieces in a flash. He was therefore popular and held increasingly so in high regard by all his peers. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In contrast, Min, despite his efforts and many inherited advantages, could never measure up, always falling short in any social or academic endeavor. What’s more, as upstanding as Yong was in character and ability, Min was the opposite. But instead of acknowledging his inferiority, Min remained falsely confident, vain and cruel. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><b>Wishing to advance his only son Min, Gang chose to be perpetually blinded to all his shortcomings. He refused to acknowledge the blatant facts when Min took full credit for Yong’s exemplary deeds and academic accolades. Most often Yong was also unfairly blamed and punished for many of Min’s loathsome acts. Moreover poor Yong would be severely reprimanded at each instance for his supposed failing to protect and deter Min from his nasty endeavors and his increasingly coarse, scandalous ways. </b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;">As they grew up, to the added consternation of Gang, his son Min had become progressively wicked and licentious, warranting more additional funds and force to suppress the resulting damage. To make matters worse Min had become a compulsive gambler and a womanizer. His idle ways led him to spend most of his time in unsavory places doing many abhorrent things. All of which of course was covered up with a certain pressure and occasional bribery; even though this greatly sapped Gang’s coffers. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Then came a day when Min committed an unpardonable crime; one that could not be so easily swept under the rug for any amount of finagling, threat or money. The situation was dire and something extreme needed to resolve it. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> In a private conference Uncle Tuan Gang spoke his mind after laying the blame squirrely on Yong’s shoulders. “You should have been more insistent in your reasoning with Min and strove harder, been more persistent in order to prevent this catastrophic event. As it is, the authorities will be wizened to it by morning and will be coming to make an arrest!"</span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Finally, after all that ranting and raving, with his fury spent, Gang sat down and in a hissing voice added, “There might be, however, one last recourse left. That is, if you, Tuan Yong are willing to face this probable peril. “Looking down he mumbled, “And considering all that I’ve done for you, you owe me, at least this one favor!"</span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yong ‘s life by any means had not been an easy one, still he felt he owed his Uncle a debt of gratitude for his upbringing, education and shelter for all these years. He therefore had little choice but to accede to this unfair demand and shoulder the full blame for Min’s crime. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“I’m not an entirely unreasonable man however, “His uncle hemmed and hawed. “That is why I’ve facilitated your escape. The authorities will look the other way till morning. This letter will give you the proper introductions to my friend Fan Wei who owes me a favor. He lives in the Sekor district in Dara province. The journey will be hard on you I dare say, as it crosses much hostile territory and is close to the border, a far, far place from here. He will take you in all right; he owes me and he can use you in his employ till such a time that this thing blows over. Is that agreeable to you?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Of course Uncle,” Yong fell on his knees, “I’m forever indebted to you for your mercy.” What other response could Yong give? </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shortly after leaving all that he had known behind, armed with a letter, Yong made good his escape under cover of night. </span><br /><br /><b>His arduous trek eventually took him to the foothills of a great mountain range. Looking up, he observed the snow cowered peaks and just below that the expansive span of dense forest stretching as far as the eye could see. Subsequently, his desperate gaze searched for accessible paths. He knew that crossing these mountains will be the last leg of his journey. From then on a far easier topography but harsher climate still awaited him. His provisions for sustenance were nearly exhausted, save for a small portion of dried bread and moldy cheese. Meanwhile though his foot-gear was threadbare he would still persevere, he was sure of it. He was only armed with a staff and a short knife for protection; fortunately though he had been spared from encounters with bandits or carnivorous beasts. </b></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The snaking, narrow, rocky mountain paths with a sheer precipice on one side, led him ever upward for many a day, then one fine afternoon he found himself at the maw of a huge cave. As the weather looked rather ominous, he entered the cave to seek shelter for the night. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><b>With intermixed trepidation and eagerness in his heart, his feet carried him further and further in. As it was still daylight, he took advantage of the scant light streaming in. Eventually he arrived at a large opening, a huge chamber bathed in plenty of light. Up ahead, his eyes beheld the source; an unexpected huge opening that looked out onto a distant forested mountain. Incredibly a person clad in strange priestly garments was seated at a bench table, brush in hand, quite engaged in painting on a silk cloth. Unable to believe his eyes, he tentatively advanced until he was right behind the seated stranger. Leaning over he observed a most remarkable painting. It depicted the scene outside of the opening so perfectly, so lifelike. An exclamation escaped Yong’s lips as he marveled at the artistry. </b></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> He took hold of his senses however and pulled back; then quickly apologized, “Please excuse me for this intrusion, but what an amazing ....” He’d suddenly found himself lost for words. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The stranger had at first remained perfectly still and quite unperturbed. Presently he half turned to glance at Yong. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">At once Yong bowed to the stranger who had by then risen to his feet and squarely faced him. After his repeated apology for his infringement of the painter’s privacy, Yong formally introduced himself, and then exclaimed his deep admiration of the painting in progress. He rambled on without intending to for several minutes. A profusion of words and concepts mainly extrapolating on the points of the painting he admired streamed from his mouth; followed by other historical references and artists relating to the style and subject of the painting. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> “You seem quite knowledgeable of the arts” the stranger, who’d listened with unusual patience, finally smiled. He then introduced himself as Liong Xiá and further inquired, “But what is this person Zhang Shen Yao you’ve made mention of? I am not familiar with that person. “ </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yong could hardly believe his ears, “Surely you jest, sir?” He politely smiled. “He is a legendary artist, known far and wide in the realm."</span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">But the stranger simply shook his head. In the ensuing silence, Yong was obliged to offer more explanations; and so, he succinctly told the account of the story of Zhang Seng Yao’s painting of Dragons: </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">He was a famous painter, during Wei-Jin the South and North Dynasties who excelled in painting animals, birds and particularly dragons. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">According to legend, the Emperor had ordered him to paint dragons on the wall of AnLe temple. After he drew four dragons, Zhang invited the emperor to take a look. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“But the work is incomplete! “The emperor was displeased, having at once noted that the dragons were drawn without the pupils. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“The absence of the pupils is purposeful, “Zhang quickly explained, “as they are the essence of the dragons. To do otherwise would bring the creatures to life and usher in unwarranted consequences.” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The emperor, thinking this to be a high exaggeration of an egotistical artist, demanded Zhang complete his work. Zhang Shen Yao was therefore forced to do as he was bid. No sooner did he complete the eyes of two of the dragons, lightening flashed and thunders roared. There was a strange mist that filled the air and in that chaos the two mighty dragons emerged through the mist. In a flash they dashed through the cave’s ceiling to instantly disappear without a trace into the sky. When the smoke and mist cleared, the emperor saw that only two dragons remained on the wall. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Quite an interesting account” Xiá nodded at the conclusion of Yong’s retelling of the story. You have a flare with words, sir that enlivens the scene. Thank you for that. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Nevertheless, “Yong added thoughtfully. “ As enduring as this legend is, and there are even supposed to be documented historical accounts of its validity in the Royal Library. Now that I’ve said it out loud.... “Yong shrugged, doubting his original firm belief. “Perhaps it’s nothing more than a high exaggeration to beguile or entertain the masses.” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Who’s to say” Xia shrugged. “Then again...” He picked up and unrolled one of the scrolls then spread it across the table. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yong was amazed at the lifelike painting of a bird... But what’s this? There were no pupils. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">He looked up at Xie questioningly. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Xiá smiled, “Would you like to know?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Yes,” Yong eagerly nodded. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">At which point Xie took a brush, dipped the tip in ink and simply painted in the pupils. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">No sooner had he done that then, to the amazement of Yong, the bird blinked, his feathers ruffled, and then instantaneously came to life and simply flew away, escaping through the wide opening of the cave. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yong knew at once that this was no ordinary mortal. But his thoughts suddenly, for some reason, turned instead to the letter in his inner pocket. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“What’s this? “But then, when he reached for it, he discovered that it was missing. Had he dropped it along the way? </span></i></div>
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<i><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yong, looking up and saw the very letter with its seal intact in the hands of Xiá. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Are you looking for this? “ Xia looked grim as he glanced at the letter. Then suddenly he fixed his eyes on Jiang and asked, “You’ve never once had the temptation to open it to see what’s inside?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">“Of course not! It was not addressed to me.” Yong gave his frank response. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">”Then again, this once, perhaps you should have.” Xia pursed his lips. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yong understood at once the peril that awaited him at the end of his journey. After all his survival would have been a bane to Gang with so much at stake. It saddened Yong however that his Uncle had so little regard for him. Then again, perhaps his Uncle’s love for his son was far greater. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Having decided quickly he knelt before Liong Xiá . He then pleaded to be his pupil. </span></i></div>
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-39701717195821893072018-01-28T04:29:00.003-05:002021-04-05T03:11:02.047-04:00Dragon’s Animal Predictions for 2018 The Year of the Yang Earth Dog<h2>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Dragon’s Animal Predictions for 2018 </i></b><b><i>The Year of the Yang Earth Dog</i></b></span></h2>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Born: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008<br /><br />The Rat can achieve whatever they wish in 2018 for this is a propitious year for them. So go ahead be positive but be candid. <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rat’s work life will be varied and busy with ample opportunities opening up in 2018. As a result this will improve both present and future income and lifestyle. As it is the Rat needs to view 2018 as the year in which to lay down the foundations for their future.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A positive mental attitude throughout the year will be beneficial in securing those rewarding future endeavors. Moreover, the Rat is a gregarious creature with an abundance of friends and has an exceptional ability to work well with others. This trait of demonstrating their keenness to work as a positive team member provides the Rat with ample respect from their workmates. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">However, reward and enjoyment for their efforts may not be as immediate as the Rat would like it to be, but the Rat mustn’t get disillusioned. Practice persistence and determination for the rewards will be manifest all in good time. Besides, with so many social and work connections, the Rat will have ample advice and support on hand. If there are opportunities for growth or promotion, others will jump in with encouragement and a kind word in the right circumstance. Furthermore, regular communication with contacts, including employment specialists, will be beneficial to discuss any desires for work experience growth or change.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For the maximum benefit the Rat needs only to be disciplined to avoid frivolous distractions and remain focused on projects and the task at hand. Be alert so as not to miss any opportunity to shine in terms of career and professional life. Do employ those innate skills of creativity and innovation at the workplace particularly during hectic times. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The second half of the year, from mid-August to November will deliver the best prospects. However, April is also a favourable month for the best opportunities.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The possibility of travel is also in the forecast for the Rat who has business dealings or connections away from home base.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The time is ripe for the Rat to start planning financially for the future ahead. The female Rat will not have as successful a fiscal year as their male counterparts, at least not in the first quarter of 2018. They must therefore exercise due caution and prudence in dealing with financial matters. They need to be especially vigilant with investments and when entering into a contract or significant transaction with a risk factor attached to it. The careful perusal of documents and the asking for advice could eliminate the probability of financial losses.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">All in all there will be a surplus in income and financial growth due to the Rat’s dedication in work. There will also be opportunities for income growth by turning a hobby into profit or additional work.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rat’s love life should be interesting this year. And there is a good chance for the unattached Rat to meet that someone special this year and have that lasting relationship. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rat is a very sociable, likeable individual; meanwhile, when overwhelmed by the pressures of the day, the Rat should resist the urge to abstain from social circles. 2018 will be a busy time for the Rat, and they need to be careful not to neglect family and close relations. This neglect could result in tension and disharmony. Regular communication, and sharing any concerns with intimate relations, will foster support and caring advice as well as help maintain harmony. Furthermore, organising and spending time with friends and family will bring much needed balance into the Rat’s life. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Even though 2018 will be a productive and rewarding one for the charismatic, intelligent and gifted Rat, 2018 will not be entirely free of all problems. Fortunately for the Rat, they have this innate ability to sense any upcoming issues or problems before they manifest and so effectively cope or escape any unfavourable situation. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rat must not neglect their health during 2018. During the Dog year the Rat will have trouble feeling good in their own-skin and furthermore, their stress endurance will be put to the test particularly during the first two months of the year. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">As the year will be a busy and varied one, the Rat should allow themselves periods of rest to recharge their energy levels. Regular exercise, outdoor activities and carefully reviewing of their diet will improve the overall quality of their wellbeing and longevity.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overall, the year of the Dog will be a propitious one for the Rat; not only in professional progress but fiscally. However, the Rat must remain alert, avoid tardiness and pay attention to others in particular with his personal life. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rat is in affinity with the Ox; for your protection therefore, they can carry a key chain pendant of an Ox.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End.</span></i><br />
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The year of the Yang Earth Dog will be a busy one for the Ox. At the start of 2018 there will be some unexpected challenges and pressures for the Ox but don’t worry for the eventual rewards will come and it will be everlasting.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Ox looking for new employment or change in vocation can take full advantage of many opportunities that will be made available in 2018. It goes without saying; a better job comes with financial benefits. The Ox should be prepared to work hard for it however, and at the same time maintain an open mind, to maximise a positive outcome. If work is a priority this year, then April, May, September and November will be the ideal months for the Ox.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Keep in mind, all during the year the Ox will learn new things and engage in new projects. Furthermore, while taking on any new demands they will tap on hidden abilities and strengths. It will subsequently avail the Ox to expand his work associate circle and they could find additional expectations placed on them and their workload greatly amassed. These challenges however will be easily met by the hard- working and tenacious Ox and they will enjoy the lasting benefits for many years to come.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This year would bring financial stability to the Ox. They therefore would be able to settle down and pay off some of the long pending debts.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Unfortunately, 2018 is more likely to favor the hard working female Ox with success than their male Ox. Good advice would be for the determined Ox with ambition to fight against negativity, resist being held back by anyone or anything and stay on course by avoiding deviations. The persevering Ox eventually will attain all the coveted and well deserved praises alongside substantial monetary rewards.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">When the Ox enjoys an increase in income during 2018, they should resist the impulse to overspend or be frivolous. The Ox will need to budget wisely and most especially if they plan to make any significant purchases, participate in the stock market, consider home renovations or travel. The Ox is by nature a methodical creature, and this will serve him well when it comes to any financial papers including Tax Returns.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Ox is devoted and faithful, so they need someone who can respond in the same manner and usually it is quite difficult for the unattached Ox to find a partner. Good news! The Ox’s love life would be flourishing this year and there are chances that the Ox might even find someone special through varied methods, one of which could be an online dating service. For the single Ox, if a wedding is in the forecast, then March, April, May, and September will be an excellent time.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2018, however, is not the best time for the married Ox to plan or have a baby, best to wait a couple of years. The Ox may plan pregnancy for the year of the Rat which will be a more perfect time. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Home-life is very important to the Ox and the year of the Dog will be an active one with countless invitations to events and an increase in the Oxen’s social circle. The organisational skills of the Ox, especially with regards to travel arrangements for a special family holiday, will be frequently called upon and appreciated in 2018. Although some Oxen are not fans of travel, there will be opportunities to visit and explore various countries both near and far. The break in routine will bring many benefits to the Ox, and he will feel inspired with increased creativity. There may also be occasions to travel for work which could cause some frustration.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Many Oxen will take up a new interest or participate in community activities which will ultimately initiate new connections and friendships.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">There could also be an occasion when a relative decides to visit. If the Ox experiences frustration over attitude, plans or viewpoint, they should take a deep breath and conscientiously master their temper their emotions. The otherwise adverse situation will be averted or diffused by the quiet mind and open dialogue that had enabled all parties to express their thoughts and feelings. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Ox should make sure to reserve some time for rest and to enjoy life. The Ox must concentrate on various means to attain mental peace. Meditation can help you achieve the mental peace which you need desperately. Take a few days off from your hectic work schedule and plan a vacation. This would help you to bounce back with more energy and enthusiasm.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For the Ox who chooses to spend time working out, this is the perfect year to start a good regimen of going to the gym and working on their fitness. The Ox natives will have an excellent heath during the New Year, thanks to their efforts from the previous years for establishing a healthy lifestyle.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overall, the year of the Yang Earth Dog will be a busy but favourable time for the Ox. Travel, new friends and special occasions with the family will be enjoyed and appreciated. There will be challenges at work but nothing that the resolute Ox can’t handle. If the Ox learns to control his outbursts of anger and impatience, he will learn much and connect deeper with work-mates, family, and friends.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Ox is in affinity with the Rat. For their protection, they can carry a key chain pendant of a Rat with them at all times in 2018.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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</span><i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This is an overall excellent year for the Tiger and any extra effort will set in motion a solid foundation for future success. There will also be attractive opportunities in the workplace with possibilities to further Tiger’s knowledge and skills; they must therefore, seize every opportunity and follow through with implemented ideas. Remember, this is not a year for laid back attitude; the year of the Dog demands prompt action and hard work for Tiger to make any headway. One more thing, the charismatic and versatile Tiger needs also to foster patience as they tend to lose interest in a project or things if it doesn’t progress swiftly enough. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It’s good to know that the unemployed Tiger will achieve much success in 2018. The employed Tiger meanwhile, who has been experiencing feelings of frustration at work, or feel they are in a rut, will need to look for new opportunities and take action. Now additional pressures and challenges of a new vocation are to be expected. Still, the Tiger, by remaining flexible with an open-mind to acquiring new skills, re-training or advancing their knowledge via courses, will be poised to deliver the best results and ultimately lay the foundation for more future advancements. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Besides, all the hard work the Tiger has put in over the past few years hasn’t gone unnoticed by his peers or employers and it has gained the Tiger much credibility. Therefore they are more likely to be recommended and considered for advancement within the company. It will be in Tiger’s best interest, therefore, to be enthused, take on additional responsibilities at work and remain alert for any opportunity that might come up. Favourable months for work advancements will be February, March, and July to mid-October.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Even though finances are considered generally good in 2018, the Tiger still needs to curb their expenditures and not be a spendthrift. There is a real probability that this year the Tiger could face certain sacrifices at the workplace and incur a lot of cost overheads on various accounts. One way to avoid financial stress during the year is to stick to a budget. Disaster might still visit the Tiger however and so it is imperative they remain firm and not capitulate when the chips are down, as things will rebound shortly before the year’s end. Meanwhile, do pay particular attention to monetary transactions and funds both at home and at work this year. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The female Tiger especially, needs to be more prudent with their spending habits and think twice before purchasing anything dear. They are hardworking and ambitious and they will fight to gain as much as possible. The risk of losing everything in a short time however, should always be at the forefront of concern with any financial transactions this year.</span></i></div>
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In 2018, the Tiger’s love life is poised to be interesting; particularly for ones considering searching for lifelong partner. Romance features quite strongly for Tigers during the year of the Dog and marriage could well be in the cards.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">If the Tiger is already in a committed relationship, there will be many satisfactory occasions, and they will enjoy times spent with their partner. A word of caution: The Married Tiger should resist the urge to cheat on their partner for it can have serious repercussions. They should instead remain loyal and be filial towards their spouse. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Home life will be rewarding and pleasurable for the Tiger during the year of the Dog. They will enjoy participating in home projects, family activities or even just quiet times with loved ones. There may be periods of disquiet and disharmony during the year however, and so it will be beneficial if the Tiger keeps an open-mind, is prepared to communicate, listen to others and temper his emotions. In the end the Tiger will appreciate all the support, encouragement and advice of their loved ones.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">There’ll be opportunities to travel during the year; this will rejuvenate the restless Tiger and bring an enormous amount of pleasure. Plan well, checking paperwork thoroughly if wishing to explore further afield.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">April, June, September, and December will be socially active months for the Tiger. Opportunities will arise where the Tiger will make new connections and friends. Tigers are gregarious creatures that thrive on being the centre of attention, and they welcome this period of high social activity.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Over all this would prove to be a good year for the Tiger. During the hectic times however, the Tigers should adopt a healthy lifestyle and radically change their eating habits. They need to be in a proper shape physically and mentally anyway to achieve success in life. It won’t be a bad idea to start some exercise regimen and perhaps consider meditation; this will be one way to attain mental peace and to eliminate stress. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Tigers are in affinity with the Pig/Boar; for protection and good luck therefore, they should consider having a key chain pendant of a Pig or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Pig with them at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End.</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> 2018 Dragon’s Predictions for the Rabbit</span></span></i></h2>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2018 will be a year for action, growth, and progress for the peaceful, intelligent and loyal Rabbit. Yes, ‘Action’ is the keyword for the year of the Dog. Meanwhile, the Rabbit is poised to reap ample rewards, in both career and in personal life, from the previous year’s achievements.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Employment and Work-life</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In the past years the Rabbit has worked hard to solidify their reputation and credibility with their peers in the workplace. Those Rabbits wanting to remain in their present position may find new opportunities, including promotion coming their way. Only patience is required when faced with unexpected delays in the workplace.</span><br /><br /><b>Any Rabbits wishing for a change in vocation should take the initiative in 2018. Time would move at a rapid pace for the Rabbit and they accordingly must set in motion specific and precise goals. The Dog year will reward those who are enterprising, determined and, more importantly, those who take action. Keep an eye open for opportunities, vacancies or anything that spikes an interest and seek advice also from employment agencies. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. So what are you waiting for? This is the right time for the Rabbit and the initiative will deliver not only a sense of satisfaction, it might lead them towards their dream as well as the certainty of surpass income. Most favorable months for anything work-related are March, May, June, and September. </b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Wealth and Finances</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rabbit’s finances are looking very promising during the year of the Dog. The hard working Rabbit‘s biggest desire is to have everything they want and to be able to afford everything. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">There is also the possibility of the Rabbit enjoying additional income in 2018, through cultivating and tapping into a particular skill they possess. The increase in revenue will enable the Rabbit to enjoy travel and any plans he may have to redesign or renovate his home. It’s a given that the Rabbit does enjoy the finer things in life, and his home surroundings are essential for his peace of mind and equilibrium. The Rabbit would also benefit from increasing his savings, or open a savings account if he doesn’t already have one. He certainly will appreciate this sound action in future years.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Now a bit of warning for the spendthrift Rabbit: Even though the Rabbits’ work ethic will deliver positive results in 2018 and maybe even provide them with a bonus or monetary gift, it’s advisable for them to refrain from frivolously wasting money, or they will risk losing everything, especially towards the end of the year.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Love and Social Life</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For the single Rabbit, there is the possibility of connecting with someone special, and some may decide to settle down with their partner to develop their relationship. Unfortunately the Rabbit is not going to experience the desired success in his love life. The native will have big chances of starting a new relationship all right, but it won’t last too long.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The married Rabbit will enjoy and appreciate his home and family life all during the year of the Dog. There is also the possibility of some momentous occasions to celebrate such as a wedding or graduation, and the Rabbit will gain much pleasure from this.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> And oh yes, a flood of invitations will keep the popular Rabbit highly entertained and widen the Rabbit’s circle of friends. For many people do enjoy the Rabbits’ Company and will wish to include them in their social circles. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> March, June through to August and November will be favourable months for socialising and making new friends.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A word of caution: As maintaining a close bond with his loved ones is also essential to the wellbeing of the Rabbit so he will need to remember to share his thoughts, feelings, and ideas with those closest to him. He will benefit from their input and strengthen bonds. Remember the old saying that: compromise and trust are the 2 pillars to every successful relationship. Make sure to pay attention to both of them. Yes enjoy each and every moment of life but do not discount tensions in situations or disgruntled relationships. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Some Rabbits may also decide to relocate to a new home. If the Rabbit plans well and brings into play their exceptional organisational skills, it will be a positive move.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Health and Well-being</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In the Dog year, with all that activity, work and socializing, stress is a real factor for the Rabbit natives and they should reserve some time for a reprieve, taking care of themselves and changing their attitude.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It is important that the Rabbit stays fit physically and alert to various situations. This would the right time for them also to hit the gym and work on their fitness regimen. But they must focus more on weight loss.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rabbits are in affinity with the Dog. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Dog or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Dog with them at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> 2018 Dragon’s Predictions for the Dragon</span></span></i></h2>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The flamboyant and assertive Dragon will experience a mixed year in 2018. And although the year warrants caution, the necessary measure will also lay down the foundation for future successes. The key is to be positive.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Employment and Work life</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The year of the Dog rewards those who take action. This is the time for the Dragon to move forward and not hesitate for too long when opportunities arise. The Dragon that is content should still not sit on his laurels but seize every opportunity to further their knowledge and improve innate skills. The acquired expertise will come handy for future ventures.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Dragon who wishes a change in their employment or vocation may find many intriguing work and development opportunities in 2018. Pay heed to any friends or work colleagues’ suggestions concerning possible vacancies that may in the end prove appealing. Favourable months for career developments are April, June and from late September to November.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Finances and Investments</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Planning and budgeting all during the year in 2018 for the Dragon is a must. This is not a time for any risk-taking ventures. Caution is warranted in all financial matters and when presented with any financial documents or paperwork, the Dragon, however hectic their schedule, should be vigilant with perusing the fine print and questioning any matters that aren’t clear to them.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The female Dragon typically covets the social position more so than acquiring wealth, but this is one and the same. Their self-confidence will trigger their success, especially since the Dragon will attract to her side unique opportunities. They will be well advised to know their limitations however, as well as when to call it quits, for this ardent desire to have more can put them at risk of losing everything they have obtained until then.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Love and Social Life </span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The outgoing, and energetic, Dragon’s social life will be rather promising all during the year. There will be many opportunities to connect with new acquaintances via travel experiences, and also from participating in community activities. Careful planning can result in a family vacation that will be very beneficial and enjoyable for all. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The busiest months for social events will be February, May, August and December.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> It’s possible some Dragons may feel overwhelmed and pressured and have little patience with the family in the year of the Dog. To avoid disharmony and to maintain harmonious relationship, the Dragon therefore should communicate their concerns, thoughts or feelings especially with their loved ones. The rewards will come in the Pig year, which is 2019.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Health and Well-being</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Despite the busy schedule, the extra hours at work and the business trips, the Dragon’s overall health will be excellent one this year. That is, so long as the Dragon can maintain a professional and a personal balance, with an emphasis on a healthy diet, rest, and exercise, in order to prevent being burnt out. This is particularly important if the Dragon experiences lasting episodes of tiredness or generally lack of energy or motivation. Remember stress is the only thing that can still affect or undermined the Dragon’s good health and well being.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The dragon is in affinity with the Rooster. For protection they need to a key chain pendant of a Rooster or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rooster with them at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">2018 Dragon’s Predictions for the Snake</span></span></i></h2>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Snake can look forward to a very successful year in 2018. There will be no hurdles in the Snake’s run this year and everything will be smooth. It will also be a very spontaneous year. The Snakes have many talents but they can sometimes lack the energy to fully participate and utilise their innate skills, therefore sound advice would be for them to just come out of hiding and take action. The other thing for them to remember is to have faith in themselves and hone in on their own strengths. </span><br /><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The predictions are looking extremely promising for the Snake in the Yang Earth Dog Year. There will be plenty of opportunities for promotion or new responsibilities, but the Snake will need to be bold and go for it. Remember, action is paramount for any progress in 2018.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Snake can also benefit from any job change. The year of the Dog will be an ideal time for the Snake to further any skills he may have which could lead to new possibilities. Moreover, recognition, credibility, and success will benefit those Snakes who have been working on long-term projects. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Favourable months for work are February through to April, September, and November. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Finance and Investments</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Snake natives must remain alert for any possible changes and quickly adapt to these new circumstances as these diverse situations are the norm in the year of the Dog. This said; many Snakes will enjoy an increase in their income during the year of the Dog. Nevertheless, they should be judicious and a bit cautious with their spending to enhance future security. They should budget and implement smart money management techniques and also find some new ways to accrue more funds. There may also be opportunities to make residual income from an idea the Snake is ready to launch. Ultimately, with proper money management, the Snake should enjoy a much-improved financial position in 2018.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Good news for the female Snakes also, for they can now look forward to finally reaping the benefits of their past year’s work. These results will be both material and moral. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overall 2018 is going to be an interesting social year for the Snake and they will receive invitations to many events. Though the year may prove hectic at times, the Snake will fare best if they accept and nurture their connections. Meanwhile fun activities with the family and friends promise to be most enjoyable and fruitful provided some quality time is set aside for them.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meanwhile, keep in mind that it will be an essential feat if the Snake restrains their emotions and contains any possible outbursts this year; for any emotional instability could lead them towards an unpredictable situation from which recovery might be difficult. Relax, the Snake’s loved ones will be incredibly supportive all during these episodes and always be on hand for any advice or help the Snake may require. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">On the whole the Snake is afraid to have his feelings hurt and may act reservedly in social settings. Their interest in starting a new relationship may be zero this year and consequently, make it difficult for anyone to impress them. All is not lost however for there may be a cause for celebration at some point during the Dog year. There is also the probability of some Snakes developing a meaningful and satisfying relationship resulting in romance. The most favourable times for social activities are February, May, July and September.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Health and Well-being </span></span></i></h3>
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This year the Snake will go through a hectic work schedule and typically they may be remiss in their health routine. Not to worry, for the Snake over the years had noted the adverse health issues encountered by the people close to them. Consequently, they are determined to deal with the precariousness of good health. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Snake knows that they can burn-out reasonably quickly, and that health and longevity is dependent on regular respite during busy periods. Travel will also provide the Snake some time to rest and recuperate. Participating in some low-impact exercise such as yoga or tai chi, and even meditation will be beneficial for the Snake providing them with mental peace. It will help alleviate the stress. By these means they will be able to recharge particularly during those busiest periods of the year.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Overall, the year of the Dog will be extremely pleasurable and rewarding for the Snake. He will find his efforts won’t go unnoticed as long as he steps out from his comfort zone and picks up his pace. Don’t forget, Snake, to make time for family and friends and take care of your health.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Snakes are in affinity with the Monkey. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Monkey or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Monkey with you at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End.</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">2018 Dragon’s Predictions for the Horse</span></i></h2>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Horse will have ample positive opportunities in the year of the Yang Earth Dog in 2018. The notoriously independent Horse however needs to join forces with others in order to get the most from the year and reap ample rewards. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The horse will also experience lots of ups and downs in life this year. The best advice would be to remember that there always are challenges in every step of life. The Horse by virtue of their character however stands to come out of it O.K. Meanwhile, they should try and avoid overdoing things for this characteristic will not serve them well. Also they should try their best to keep cool in dealing with any adverse situations. </span><br /><br /><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Horse can look forward to an auspicious year as far as work is concerned. The year of the Dog will reward those who make an effort and take action. Similarly, any Horse who reveals and showcases their talents stands to be well-rewarded. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Many employed Horses will find that they’ll be propelled forward as the year progresses, especially since all their efforts and initiatives are acknowledged and recognised by their work colleagues. The Horse by nature is fiercely independent and prefers to work alone and be answerable only to their self. However, to succeed in the Dog year, the Horse natives should go against their independent nature and instead strive to be part of a team. They should also make that extra effort to get to know their colleagues. No worries, Horses are generally well liked. They are considerate beings and making that little extra effort to work alongside others should not be a problem for them. What’s more, the furtherance of their good reputation in 2018 will reap them ample rewards and benefits in subsequent years. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">There are also excellent possibilities for advancement, new responsibilities, and significant promotion for the Horse who is content in his/her present work situation. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For that Horse’s looking for a change of employment or of vocation, they will find some intriguing possibilities in 2018. Liaising with work colleagues, friends and human resource departments will benefit the Horse immensely in his search.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Favourable months are March, May, July and September.</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Financially this will be a positive year for the Horse, and many will find a very pleasant increase in income along with some additional money from either overtime or other work. The female Horse especially, will be positively influenced by the propitious stars in this period. This is an excellent year to make investments for the good results are assured. They must be careful to keep their budget under control however and to not be a spendthrift. A good solution would be to keep a shopping list on hand and stick to it with no deviations. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Some Horses may have some substantial outgoings from projects they’re engaged in so planning and budgeting will reduce any stresses from unexpected mounting costs.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">If the Horse needs to sign any documents, he/she must read them thoroughly and not be afraid to seek added advice if warranted.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Love and Social Life </span></span></i></h3>
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<i><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For the single Horse, there will be opportunities to make new friends and even start a new relationship that could very quickly turn into romance. This new love interest could lead to settling down, becoming engaged or getting married. The year holds many exciting social possibilities with April, June, August, and September being the most favourable.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Horse however needs to act with some caution in 2018; otherwise they will risk losing the current relationship or be faced with difficulties when trying to get involved in a new relationship.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">On the whole, the married Horse will enjoy and value his home life during the year of the Dog. Communication with loved ones will be valuable to help his/her understanding of any matters that are of concern, and a fresh perspective will also be beneficial in so many ways.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The year of the Dog is a perfect time for completing projects with his family, and in the long run, the Horse will be delighted with his new home and happy he made an effort.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Re-locating the home is also a possibility for some Horses. Events will happen very quickly, and the move could prove a little challenging at times with the Horse questioning his/her motives and decision. Some Horse’s may organise a family holiday during the year or even decide to hold a house-warming party.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Health and Well-being </span></span></i></h3>
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The horse will be very active all during the Dog year and so need to maintain a certain level of balance with their energy levels. One way would be to resist wasting energy on unfruitful activities; however, they should still enjoy every single moment of life and make the most of every opportunity that comes their way. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Horse natives are at risk of facing health problems and depression during 2018, due to the numerous responsibilities they are forced to take on. So, ease up on tension, remain calm as much as possible, and stay within the natural flow of life. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overall, the year of the Yang Earth Dog will be quite splendid for the Horse. For maximum gain, they should curb their natural independent ways and co-operate and communicate with others. They’ll be surprised at how much they will enjoy other’s input and support.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Horse is in affinity with the Sheep/Goat. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Sheep/Goat or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Monkey with you at all times</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The year of the Yang Earth Dog may be a bit challenging for Goats; nevertheless, it still has some positive aspects that the Goats can utilize. If they can accept the fact that they can’t always be in charge of every situation and avoid taking things personally, then the valuable lesson learned may serve them well in the favorable year of the Pig in 2019. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Goat/ Sheep are bound to experience lots of changes in their life in 2018. They should remain calm and be composed when faced with these unstable situations. Another good way to cope would be to deem these changes as good or else convert them into good ones. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The employed Goat/ Sheep are bound to experience a rather hectic work life this year; however on the plus side, there will also be a good flow of money. In 2018 there will be many attractive opportunities for the Goats to further their knowledge and to improve their skills. These will increase their chance at promotion or advancement at the work. Meanwhile, any challenges or pressures encountered will strengthen their character and make a whole range of new opportunities viable.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Goats ordinarily like to work as part of a team, maintaining close ties and communicating regularly with work colleagues. This situation will help ease the Goat through any pressures and rough patches. Avoid any arguments in the workplace and try to maintain warm relationships with co-workers. A Goat may find himself/herself feeling sensitive about a colleague’s difference of opinion. To overcome this quickly, and to keep on track, the Goat will need to set aside any feelings of hurt and resolve the problematic situation as promptly as possible. The year of the Dog will reward everyone for moving forward and taking action as well as not getting side-tracked and distracted. This is particularly relevant for Goats, so pay attention!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meanwhile, taking extra risk at the workplace can prove to be beneficial for the Goat/Sheep but to get that benefit they must be extra vigilant. Also, during these frenzied times they should go by instincts and plan their workload accordingly. They will appreciate receiving support and advice especially from more experienced colleagues. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Goat, who wishes to change employment or vocation, will triumph over any competitors by utilising his/her existing skills rather than stepping outside of their comfort zone and learning something new. The unemployed Goat will manage well if he/she meticulously prepares for interviews. Many made long-term gains will be by the Goat who remains consistent and focused. Most favourable months for work opportunities are April, June, October, and November.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Finance and Investments</span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In 2018 the Goat natives will have plenty of chances to fill their pockets with cash; they only need to make sure not to miss any opportunities. This year is going to be amazing year for them. That being said, they should still do things in moderation. Although the Goat is not particularly materialistic, he/she does have a tendency to be a spendthrift. There are no consequences to this during the year of the Dog but the Goat/Sheep should still aim at curbing their spending habits and set aside some money for savings. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meanwhile, it makes sense for the Goat to pay particular attention to financial documents, by checking terms and conditions that involve an expensive commitment.</span></i></div>
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Goat/Sheep should try and remain as close as possible to their family and friends and spend as much time as possible with them in 2018.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Goat does value his/her home life, and with the possible additional pressures during the year of the Dog it will be beneficial for the Goat to be open about any frustrations, feelings or concerns they may have. Regular communication will enable loved ones to have some empathy and understanding, and the Goat/Sheep will appreciate and value their support.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">When it comes to the relationships, the Goat/Sheep would also need to be more patient and put in more effort for better communication. In love matters, the Goat’s attitude is not quite right. The stress from the workplace might be partly responsible for the lack of a diligence in paying attention to other details of their lives.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meanwhile the Goat is poised to enjoy some pleasurable social occasions during the year of the Dog. He/she will, however, need to be mindful of how he/she interacts with friends for they may experience a lapse in self-awareness which could result in an indiscreet comment upsetting a close friend.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">There could be an opportunity to develop a new interest or join a group; this could also be some work with a charity, adding a different quality to the Goat/Sheep’s life. Favourable months for social occasions are May, July, September, and December.</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Health and Well-being </span></span></i></h3>
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Goat natives have a tendency of neglecting their own health while taking care of the wellbeing of others. They must stay alert and quit their unhealthy habits. They need to take care of themselves and focus of their emotional, physical and psychological needs.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overall, although the year of the Yang Earth Dog could have some pressures and challenges, if the Goat/Sheep remains observant and decisive he will discover some hidden benefits which will serve him/her well in the future. Rewards for any effort and perseverance will come to light in the 2019 Pig year.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Goat/Sheep are in affinity with the Horse. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Horse or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Horse with them at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Yang Earth Dog year will be a very prosperous one for the Monkey and along with it plenty of interesting opportunities will come their way. However, in order to take full advantage the Monkey must keep both eyes wide open, be alert, stay up to date with everything going on around them and communicate effectively with others. No need to hustle for things, just utilize that innate intuition to your advantage, stay calm and steady. Yes, you will get it all, but all in good time. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">One more thing to remember, the Monkey should strive to leave the past behind and concentrate instead on looking forward. This way they will be able to grab all the opportunities coming their way with both hands and put them to proper use. </span></i></div>
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Monkeys friendly nature and ability to be resourceful will serve them well during 2018. So long as they are willing to adapt, there could be some exciting new developments in the workplace which will offer opportunities for growth and advancement in their professional career.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It is imperative for the Monkeys to maintain close communication with their work colleagues so that they are informed when an opportunity arises. Doing so will result in significant progress throughout the year. </span><br /><br /><b>Plenty of good opportunities are also in the forecast for the Monkeys who are seeking new employment or a different vocation. However, the multi-talented Monkey will fare better if they keep an open mind and consider other types of occupation to utilize their skills. They may find that this in the end will propel them in a new and exciting direction. Favorable months for work developments are March April, October, and November.</b></i></div>
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<i><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Dog year will bring financial stability to the Monkey’s life. Further, they will be able to settle down and pay some of the long outstanding debts.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Monkeys will have plenty of money in 2018, but they will need to learn how to manage funds efficiently. Occasionally a large purchase or sudden shopping spree is a possibility in the Dog year, but this does not mean it will make a dent in their budget. If they continue to work with pleasure and efficiently, their income will continue to regenerate.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It’s always sound advice however to remain somewhat vigilant when considering any large acquisition and to peruse with care any accompanying legal paperwork. It wouldn’t hurt if the Monkeys then engaged some professional help. This way the Monkey can enjoy purchasing gifts, items for his home and on social activities throughout the year without any possibility of financial risk. Lucky you!</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Love and Social Life </span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Monkey will have a very pleasurable domestic and social life and create many pleasant memories in the year of the Dog. During this year there are big chances for the Monkey to have a successful relationship. This year will grow in a positive direction and the Monkey’s love life, married or otherwise, should also prove rather interesting.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">As the Dog year progresses, the Monkey, who is in a new relationship, could find his feelings deepening and the relationship moving forward. The single Monkey will have plenty of opportunities to meet a new love.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">To avoid upsets or misunderstandings however, the mischievous Monkeys should be warned not to get too carried away with their antics. They will also enjoy an increase in invitations in regards to their interests or even work. Favourable months for social events are February, March, July, and December.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The married Monkey can be assured that the love for their partners is as strong as in the beginning. The Male Monkeys should however be more careful not to be led into the temptations offered by their surroundings.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">On the whole the married Monkey will enjoy his home life and family activities immensely during the year of the Dog. However, there may be some ups and downs when it comes to the relationships with extended family members. At such times the Monkeys are advised to keep their cool in order to properly handle the situation. To ensure that the Monkeys don’t make any hasty decisions, they should listen intently to the concerns of the family and take it in good grace that every ounce of advice, or issued warning, is for the Monkeys best interest. Ultimately, the Monkey will appreciate their encouragement, advice, and support. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In 2018 the Monkey native is sure to enjoy hobbies and interests that in the past have already been proven beneficial. The Monkey likes to make the most of his talents and skills, and he will find the time and get great pleasure for self-improvement throughout the year. One way could be to attend new courses to enhance their knowledge, efficiency and abilities. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monkeys are usually healthy people, ready to conquer the world. Those Monkeys that feel the need to find inner peace in 2018 could consider activities like meditation, tai chi or yoga. It will help them relax and achieve physical strength.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Monkeys are in affinity with the Snake. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Snake or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Snake with them at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">2018 Dragon’s Predictions for the Rooster</span></span></i></h2>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The year of the Yang Earth Dog will be a hectic and confusing one for the outgoing and well organised Rooster. The Rooster might encounter some difficulties in life and further, find it difficult to make the right choices in 2018. However, to fare best the Rooster needs to remain flexible in all matters, stay away from negativity and maintain a positive outlook. Meanwhile they should try to enjoy life experiences, keeping in mind that there is light at the end of the tunnel. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rooster should give it a hundred percent to whatever they do this year. Before the Rooster makes any decisions about a problem however, it is imperative to think hard about it and take into consideration all the possible outcomes. Once the Rooster native has decided on something then they should stick to it and don’t let anyone or anything change their mind. </span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Many Roosters that have taken a new direction in 2017 will achieve more significant results in 2018 if they embrace their new position and accept that the year of the Dog is not the year for reaching their work goals. They must approach the year with the mindset that they need to expand their knowledge, skills, gain more experience and learn as much as they can about their new role, then this modesty will benefit them by furthering their careers in future.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In the interim, the Rooster must showcase their talents and not forget to connect and communicate with their co-workers. And be appreciative of all the help received and support tendered by their work colleagues.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flexibility is the key for those Roosters that are seeking employment or wish to change vocation. They must step outside of their comfort zone and instead embrace any position. When faced with a stiff competition the Rooster should scrutinize it and try to see the advantages instead of dismissing an opportunity. Most favourable months for career developments are March, June, September, and October.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rooster could find 2018 an expensive year warranting effective money management. They need to compare prices, especially when purchasing high-end products or entering into an agreement. The Rooster should also thoroughly peruse the fine print of any financial documents in regard to an expensive purchase. Careful planning and budgeting will also minimizes any stress.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The female Rooster especially, needs to learn to adapt to any situation and not be scared by the probability that their financial situation may suffer in 2018. It’s important to remember that variety is an important aspect of life.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Love and Social Life </span></span></i></h3>
<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A busy, pleasurable social life is in the forecast for the gregarious Rooster during the year of the Dog. They will enjoy many invitations and be able to showcase their fabulous conversational skills. However, the Roosters can at times be tactless. This year in particular they should be on guard and be mindful of saying something that they might regret later on. Favourable and active months for social activity will be April, June, July, and November.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rooster’s love life should be interesting one as well this year. There are real opportunities that many single Roosters will fall in love with meet someone special this year and that someone could be a lasting partner. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In 2018 it will be a good thing for the Rooster to reserve some time to pursuing personal interests or learn a new skill. Enjoying some quality time with family and friends, perhaps a shared interest will also be highly beneficial. Additionally, the Rooster will enjoy organising a holiday at some point during the year. This vacation would be an opportunity to meet and connect with others.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The married Rooster places himself in a very central position in the home. Those around him appreciate his ability to organise and stay up-to-date on all matters as well as his ability to communicate and be ready to listen and give advice. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Roosters that are planning any home projects, such improvements or renovations need to remain flexible with deadlines and to be realistic with completing projects by a fixed time. The year of the Dog will be hectic enough for the Rooster, and the Rooster will not fare well if he insists on high pressure tasks and specific deadlines.</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rooster is, by nature, a thorough and meticulous being. Typically, 2018 will be challenging and extremely busy. The result would be that, he/she could miss essential matters and fail in maintaining their usual high standards. When the pressure builds stress can damage the physical and mental health of Rooster natives, if they don’t pay enough attention to it. Anxiety is also a risk for their health and the difficulties they encounter might manifest as exhaustion. The Rooster therefore should try for respite, or to meditate so as to manage effectively any stressful matters and to keep in check any rising emotions. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overall, a positive year for the Roosters as long as they are prepared to be flexible and take timely breaks when the pressure builds up. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Roosters are in affinity with the Dragon. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Dragon or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Dragon with you at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End</span><br /><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">On the whole 2018 will be an excellent year for the Dog with many opportunities in both professional and personal life. There will be occasions however, when the Dog will face tough times. Those times when the chips are down, they must keep their morale high, stay focused, be determined and tap on their positive energy reserves in order to persevere and do well. The year of the Dog requires action and so the Dog native needs also to let go of past frustrations and disappointments as this will hold them back.</span></i></div>
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<i><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">When it comes to the Dog’s professional life in 2018, all is required of the Dog is, for him/her to remain focused, be confident and persevere. They should keep in mind that this year is most propitious to opportunities for advancement and promotions at work. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2018 also holds promise for the unemployed Dogs seeking new employment. Along the way there may be some rejections, but this should not deter the dogs any, as this could hold the possibility that far more suitable positions may be available further down the line. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meanwhile, some Dogs will benefit from furthering their education or skills, especially if venturing into a new vocation. Favourable months for career developments are March, April September, and October.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Financially the Dog natives should fare quite well in 2018. Due to the Dogs successes and advancement in his work situation, he will enjoy an increase in income with some Dogs receiving additional revenue from a new venture or extra work. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Typically, Dogs will be able to afford almost everything their hearts’ desires. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">They will nevertheless show wisdom when it comes to impulsive spending.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A healthier bank account will also mean that many Dogs will decide to start some home projects, book a holiday or pursue an interest. 2018 will be a perfect time for the Dog to look carefully at his outgoings, set up a budget and, if he isn’t already, start to save for future security.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Dogs can look forward to a busy home life during 2018. They are poised to experience lots of changes in their relationships; meanwhile, the married natives should be more careful, otherwise they will risk the dissolution of their marriage. They can fall in love easily enough, but their feelings can dissipate just as fast. Try spending quality time with family. This could prove most beneficial. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The married Dog will also bring to fruition any long considered home improvement projects. Careful planning and budgeting as well as not rushing to get the job completed will bring much pleasure and satisfaction to the Dog. Additionally, they should communicate any concerns and plans with their loved ones for they will be most appreciative for all their support and advice.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Those Dogs considering purchasing a new home in 2018 could feel it a challenging and time-consuming effort. Still, the end results will be well worth it for this Yang Earth Dog Year is poised to herald the start of a new, grand era for the Dog!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2018 will be a socially active year for the Dog during which they will enjoy making new contacts and form some strong, long-lasting friendships. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Many single Dogs can look forward to a new romance and be able to leave behind any past disappointments. It will be time to enjoy a fresh start. Favourable months for socialising are February, March, July, and August.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2018 the Dog natives will enjoy excellent health, so long as they monitor their eating habits and they do not indulge in excess. Nothing further needs to be said. </span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Finally, the Dogs are in affinity with the Rabbit. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Rabbit or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rabbit with them at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"> 2018 Dragon’s Predictions for the Pig</span></i></h2>
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<i><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Born: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007</span><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pig will on the whole enjoy a peaceful time in 2018. The Yang Earth Dog year may pass far too quickly for the hard-working Pig but this may still afford him/her enough time to sow the seeds of a solid foundation to be reaped in 2019 which is the year of the Pig.</span></i></div>
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<i><b><br /></b><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In the year of the Dog, Pigs will make many compromises in work-life in order to be professionally successful. There will be many obstacles in their way but if they persevere they are sure to succeed. Subsequent benefits of rich financial gains will be theirs along with an increase in responsibilities.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This year the Pigs will explore many new avenues in their professional life which will in the end pay them rich dividends. The year of the Dog is the perfect time for the Pigs to consider furthering their knowledge and skills. Be alert and seize every opportunity to participate in courses or training that is relevant to work. Signing up and dedicating time to study will bring fantastic opportunities for progress and future rewards.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pig will also make headway by showing enthusiasm in his/her workplace which could lead to prospects in other ventures, including mentoring new recruits.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> The Dog year will be a good year for the Pigs wishing to change employment or have a different vocation. Making an effort to investigate available work opportunities and staying committed to making a move, will bring positive results for the Pig. In some cases, the soft and open-hearted Pig may be disheartened when the job openings and interviews do not go as anticipated. However, if they logically and meticulously explore and asses the possible reasons for it, (for example, lack of a particular skill or displaying the wrong attitude,) then insight gained will be beneficial in their future attempts. Favourable months for work progress and opportunities are late February, March, and October through to early December. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">There is a definite upsurge of possibilities in the forecast for the second half of the year. Just be patient, the snail’s pace will pick up momentum towards the end.</span><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<i><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In 2018 there will be ample lucky breaks headed in Pig’s way. The Pig can also look forward to additional monies flowing in throughout the year from either a gifts or from extra work opportunities. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pig should seize these opportunities but make proper use of them. As it is, the Pigs do enjoy opulence and more exceptional things in life including fine food, lavish environment and holidays etc. They can therefore, in a short span, spend their entire earnings. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Good advice would be for Pigs to exercise some self-control with their spendthrift ways this year. They should refrain from excessive expenditures and costly items that may lead to dire, unwanted situations in the later part of the year. Try to be a bit more financially savvy and explore other options before making any decision. Better still, invest or increase savings or perhaps even pay off an outstanding loan. </span><br /><br /><br /> </i><br />
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<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The popular and sociable Pigs can look forward to an entertaining year in 2018. This is a good year to set aside time for sharing some pleasurable and recreational interests with family and friends. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pig should have little worries when it comes to love matters. If the Pig native is involved in a relationship, with romance factoring on the horizon, this could result in an unexpected and pleasant surprise. Chances this year for single Pigs to end up in a marriage are quite high.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Favourable months for socialising, developing new friendships and finding love are March, April, July, and September.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It’s not all bed of roses however, for there is a probability that some of the Pigs that are already in relationships may experience a few ups and downs. The areas of contention will warrant sensitivity and careful handling from the Pig. It is very important that they be reasonable and try and sort out any differences which could be a source of trouble. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> On the whole Pigs can look forward to a very pleasurable home-life. They will enjoy organising special occasions and treats for the family which will be much appreciated and make many happy memories for all.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">There is a chance however that the married Pigs experience moments of discord within the family. On those occasions they need to be calm and draw upon their peacemaker skills to quickly diffuse the situation before it gets out of hand. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pigs that find themselves in personal crisis or pressured should not hesitate to ask the assistance or help from loved ones. They may appreciate the singular chance of repaying the Pigs kindness and many thoughtful ways.</span></i></div>
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<i><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">To avoid any health issues, the Pig needs to focus on the positive aspects of life and forget any negative thoughts. The hard-working Pig should keep in mind that he/she is bound to be rewarded in the much quicker and more active 2019 Pig year.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meanwhile the Pig can maintain a balanced life and recoup his energy by setting aside some time to relax and partake in hobbies. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pigs are in affinity with the Tiger. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Tiger or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Tiger with them at all times.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The End</span></i></div>
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<i>Have a Healthy, Happy and Prosperous New Year</i></div>
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-38347808100080657462017-09-24T00:54:00.004-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.057-04:00The Night King Riding Viserion Destroys the Wall<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">The Night King Riding Viserion Destroys the Wall</span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i><br /><br />In most fictions during epic struggles between good and evil blue light (usually emanating from a weapon such as magical sword or staff) stands for goodness and purity, whereas red light symbolizes evil and all that is bad. In the series Game of Thrones however, the reverse is employed. Blue light (which is the breath of transformed Viserion) stands for death and destruction whereas red stands for blood and life. </i></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Viserion in the service of Night King</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Young Drogo Dragon</td></tr>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />In the final two episodes of GOT’s seventh season, we saw the demise of one of the dragons, Viserion, his carcass plunging into the icy depths. <br /><br />Later still, in the lookout post on the wall we saw Beric and Tormund peer into the distance. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Then came the highly anticipated and dreaded scene of the dead soldiers marching out of the woods, led by White Walkers on creepy horses.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />“Run!” Tormund cries out and we hold our breath. <br /><br />Suddenly we are startled by the appearance of the dragon, the newly blue-eyed Viserion, flapping badly battered wings. The Night King is riding Viserion, which feels like an affront; so does the uncomfortable sensation of watching the beloved dragon breathing devastating blue flame on the Wall.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /> The solid wall of ice begins to crumble with great clouds of smoke. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Truly, the anticipated dread was manifest, when Viserion now in the service of the Night King, decimated the defensive wall that stood as the key stumbling block between the lands of the living and the undead army. <br /><br />Then came the invading Army of the Dead marching unimpeded south; how many will be turned into white walkers? </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />How many of the beloved characters will fall? Ugg. The Long Night will be upon them and us also as we wait with dread and anticipation for the outcome. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Though there’s been no official word just yet, Game of Thrones Season 8 is currently slated to return in late 2018 or early 2019. Outside of the intriguing internal politics, the romance and the epic wars between the living armies, we also expect to see the dragons pitted against each other and the tragic scenarios’ brother against a brother. Add the elements of surprise to this; it should be an interesting season. <br /><br />See You Then!</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Fin<br /><br /> </i></b></div>
Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-54364686364781947342017-08-09T02:22:00.004-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.064-04:00The Dreadnought Dragon of Game of Thrones<h2 style="text-align: center;">
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><u>The Dreadnought Dragon of Game of Thrones</u></span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i><br />In any given war the opposing armies use every means within their power to gain the advantage. It so happens that in GOT, Daenerys Targaryen has three Dragons. We watched them hatching from stone eggs then growing to adulthood, so in the interim we grew rather fond of these magnificent, mystical creatures: the Dragons.</i></b><br />
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<b><i><br />The Dragon was used in the surprise offensive on the Lannister army in Season 7, Episode 4 “The Spoils of War”. The show's largest battle sequence even surpassed in might last year's Battle of the Bastards. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />No one blames Daenerys for losing her patience and for her retaliation. Infuriated, she set on to rectify the Tyrion’s ill-advised strategies that cost her land, crucial allies and manpower. <br /><br />No longer the nice girl, she shall punish the enemy. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />“To pursue an advantage and take an opportunity does not allow the error of a moment of breath. It is too early to act and instant earlier and too late to act and instant later.” Sun Tzu<br /><br />Meanwhile, for a time our senses were lulled by the Lannister Army’s march, flush from its Highgarden victory, wagons laden with the golden spoils of war and much needed provisions. We listened to the quips between Jaime and Bronn with the striking red landscape as the backdrop, foreshadowing the terrible devastation to come. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Then our ears picked up thundering horses’ hoofs hammering the ground. Next, our eyes caught the sight of a huge Drogon slicing through the air. Daenerys riding Drogon flew off the screen as hoards of charging Dothraki waving their weaponry and doing acrobatics on horseback as they swept across the land in a deadly wave. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Pardon me for stating the obvious but the scene was very much reminiscent of past movies of cowboys and Indians, only in this instance the Indians aka Dothraki were to be the victors.<br /><br />Yes indeed, Daenerys Targaryen unleashed the wrath of the Dragon on them... It was a truly a powerful thing to see. Did you expect otherwise?</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />The might of Drogon lending assistance to the cavalry, succeeded within minutes in the total rout of the entire Lannister army. Countless men and beasts were slaughtered by the hoards of Dothraki or burned to a crisp by the fiery breath of Drogon. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Strangely enough this proved to be a better strategy on the part of Daenerys Targaryen since it resulted in greater gain against the Lannister force, certainly far more so than it would have been had she opted to assail the walled capital King’s landing instead. <br /><br />This brings to mind the saying: “Do not attack the enemy on contestable ground.” <br /><br />Meanwhile there is a sure foreshadowing of future problems to come: In King’s Landing, in the North, and with the Unsullied trapped in Casterly Rock. All of these face a shortage of supplies while awaiting the sure onset of the long winter and the impending attack of the Whitewalkers.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />But I digress...coming back to the use of Dragons as serious weaponry. War necessitates the use of all formidable weapons to secure victory and all wars are a terrible bane for all humanity and civilization. Unfortunately throughout history mankind, always the aggressor, has resorted to war instead of diplomatic channels to resolve conflicts. Men are guilty of this terrible scourge. However, when it comes to living creatures like the Dragons and horses used in war, we are left in a quandary.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />When Jamie bid Bronn to fetch Qyburns’ Scorpion, and later still Bronn took aim, undoubtedly many hearts quivered, fearing the worse for Drogon. For expectedly with Daenerys, being one of the major stars riding him, she would not perish. But would Drogon?</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Relief set in to see, even though we’re not sure how badly Drogon was wounded, that the noble creature still had enough strength left in him to breath fire at that crucial moment and save Daenerys from Jaime’s attack. Jaime was, in turn, saved by Bronn, in case you are wondering. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />There is hint in the air however, predicting a far worse outcome for the Dragons. <br /><br />Though there's no proven and concrete way to kill a dragon, there are a few ways that Dragons may possibly be killed. This based on knowledge from the books and the show.<br /><br />In the story of Urrax and Serwyn of the Mirror Shield, Serwyn kills the dragon Urrax with a spear through the eye. The spear Cersei shot at Balerion's skull was through the eye. Meraxes, one of the great dragons used by Aegon the Conqueror to conquer Westeros, was killed by an iron bolt to the eye from a scorpion, a weapon similar to that Qyburn made. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Qyburn's device could therefore work on Daenerys‘dragons, but they need to be better marksmen as a live dragon’s flight is swift. They can manoeuvre through the air while simultaneously unleashing the deadly breath of fire on the target with devastating results. <br /><br />The Dance of the Dragons was a civil war between two Targaryens fighting for the Iron Throne, about 170 years before the events of "Game of Thrones." During this major war Dragons fought each other on opposing sides. Subsequently, there were many casualties of Dragons.<br /><br />After Aegon III (who had deep seated hatred for the dragons) defeated his half-sister, Rhaenyra, he put the remaining dragons in chains and locked them up. These captive dragons grew weak and within a span of few years all perished. It is important to note however that Daenerys had locked up Rhaegal and Viserion in Meereen. But they survived their ordeal. So captivity was not the culprit, but, as rumoured, Aegon III or the maesters may have poisoned the captive dragons. <br /><br />Then again, it’s important to note that the maesters at the Citadel in Oldtown (where Samwell Tarly is training) were totally adverse to magic, it can even be claimed that they despised it. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Also, in the books, Euron Greyjoy has Dragonbinder. Valyrian glyphs on the horn read, "I am Dragonbinder ... No mortal man should sound me and live ... Blood for fire, fire for blood." Now this Dragonbinder (also known as the Hellhorn because it is a large dragon horn) is supposed to enable one to control dragons. It is said that anyone who blows the horn will die but any dragons that hear it will be compelled to obey the horn's master. We’ll have to see if this will be introduced into the HBO series.<br /><br />The already despised influential character and an ally to Cersei Euron Greyjoy, could use this Dragonbinder, while escaping that certain death, to turn Daenerys ‘s dragons on each other. Indeed, it will be a feat that will put him in the limelight. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Rest easy however; I think some if not all will survive to fight against the Whitewalkers. Fire and Ice... Isn’t that what was promised all along? <br /><br />If, perchance, the Dragons do not survive or are altered, here are some possible dreaded futures:</i></b></div>
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-34372122538802624462017-05-12T01:39:00.003-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.072-04:00A Pair of Fibbers<b><i><br /></i></b>
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<b><i><br />Once upon a time at a countryside village, there were two best friends called Nero and Simon, who lived in two ramshackle houses in close proximity to each other. They were also the youngest of their many siblings and so they often were ignored. Being of similar temperament and preferring idleness to mundane daily chores, the co-conspirators Nero and Simon never failed to sneak off each and every day to some prearranged point to partake in some wildly imaginative adventures. <br /><br />One such place was the nearby lake, a sizeable watercourse, with snaking shorelines, sometimes hidden with tall bulrushes, which extended for miles and miles. As the two friends both loved fibbing and being quite adept at swimming, they often chose to frolic at the unfrequented segment of this large lake. <br /><br />This part once had plenty of fish but presently, if there were any fish there at all, they swam undisturbed and secure amidst the miasma of tall underwater weeds. Sometime prior some fishermen had been ensnared by this thick underwater vegetation and consequently drowned at this very spot. As others followed suit and corpses piled up the legend quickly spread about a vengeful Dragon King. This deterred many trespassers. This Dragon King was furious, as he had been cast down from the Heavens for some infractions and forced to take up residence in this insignificant lake </i></b><br />
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<b><i><br /><br /> Having wild and lively imaginations Nero and Simon were frequently drawn to this place and often made it their fun pastime to go on a quest to vanquish colossal monsters lurking in some shadows and deep recesses of the water. <br /><br />As an added amusement each also fashioned wild claims just to see if they could hoodwink the other. <br /><br />On this particular day, having snuck off again to seek another adventure, Nero and Simon eventually took refuge from the burning rays of the midday sun in the shade of a huge tree. Nero was drawing some imaginary lines in the ground when, finding the piece of meat he’d put in his pocket earlier on that morning, suddenly looked up and said: <br /><br />“You know what, Simon? I was just thinking. This shade is well and good here but, hmm, thus far everything you and I had said, and you know it too, is all malarkey. Why don’t we cool off and wash out all this nonsense stuffing up our mind? But the lake waters are not so good here; do you dare go to that forbidden spot?”<br /><br />“I’m no coward, lead on!” Simon jumped to his feet. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br />Nero reached the spot first and, without hesitation, dove in. When he finally emerged from the water he sported a big wide grin on his face and, producing the meat, settled down in a shady spot and began to chew on it. <br /><br />Simon quickly picked himself up from where he’d collapsed panting from the exertion. Reminded of his growling stomach, he wanted the same. Looking wistful at the yummy morsel, he licked his chops and asked: “Where did you get that meat?” <br /><br />“Oh, this?” Nero smiled. “ The Dragon King was holding a feast and when he learned that I was going to wash away my nonsense, highly pleased, he ordered his servant to present me with this delectable peace. Oh, my word!” He licked his lips. “Wow, this meat is truly heavenly; wow, its soo delicious it must be slice of dragon’s liver. You know, from the ones that displease His Highness."</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br />“I want some too! I too am deserving of such a reward.” Simon immediately removed his sweat soaked clothes and dove into the water. But he dived in so fast that he smashed his head against a deep rock. He emerged with a trail of blood streaming down his forehead. <br /><br />“What happened?” Nero asked with concern. “How on earth did you hurt your head?” <br /><br />Not wanting to admit defeat, Simon shook his head and grumbled: “The Dragon King was angry because I was tardy and beat me over the head with a drumstick. The pain is unbearable."<br /><br /> <br /><br />The End. <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i></b></div>
Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-18978046461438597412017-03-24T23:23:00.019-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.078-04:00Baby Dragon’s Breath<h2 style="text-align: center;">
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<b><i><br /><br />It was a dreary afternoon with gray earth and gray vegetation matching the gray sky. He was so used to staying indoors after the long cold winter. But yesterday was the Spring Equinox and ideally, this would be the time the buds would wake up. <br /><br /> “I need some fresh air,” He admonished himself for his laziness. He slammed the lid down on the notebook, fetched a toque and parka and headed outdoors. The cold air instantly filled his lungs but it still was refreshing. He strolled aimlessly about following the snaking somewhat muddy paths. He stopped once or twice, under bare trees and looked up to study the naked gray branches and the shy buds that remained hesitant to emerge. </i></b><div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />“Don’t blame you.” He mumbled under his breath. But just a little while longer and all will be warm, sunny and bright. “Patience,” he whispered into the air watching the pattern his cold breath took. He then abruptly turned and walked away with his long strides now leading him towards his favorite spot, the pond nearby. Further along as the seasons rolled by with spring emerging into summer, this place would be bustling with life. The bulrushes would compete with lush grasses, wildflowers and some planted flowers. Then the bare branches of the trees would be covered in blooms. Those blooms would turn into luscious crimson red berries, poisonous to man but a treat to the visiting birds. Then the air will be filled with the contented happy songs of chirping. Meanwhile the frogs would contribute their baritone croaking to the high chirp of the crickets in nature’s delightful cacophony.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />He mustn’t forget the odd turtle or two and, of course.... “Ducks!!!!” There was one particular pair that without fail always returned to this pond. Sociable, they did not mind sharing space with the other newcomers. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />He climbed the few shallow steps and soon he was standing in the centre spot of the wooden bridge trying desperately to see anything remotely resembling spring. <br /><br />“There!” His interest was drawn to the melting of the ice at the edge cluttered with gray debris and the rocks decked with moldy decorations, remnants of the long oppressive winter months. Those odd shapes on the gray rocks long at last peeked out from the oppressive ice. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>The cool gusts suddenly rose up and thrashed his face. He buttoned his jacket up higher and pulled down his toque, and then smiled looking at the wonderful ripples on the pond. He was reminded of the Zen sand sculptures, so perfect and rhythmic were the ripples. Though the air was crisp, he was oblivious to the cold now observing this harmonious, endless flow of wavelets. The “Water level was lower than usual” he pondered as he studied the chunks of ice desperately clinging to the shore. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />Suddenly his attention was drawn to the unusual rock, resembling the head of a Dragon, poking out in the centre of the pond. Yes, he reflected. It’s true, not all Dragons are fire breeders. Weren’t there Dragons residing in clouds and water, responsible for storms, rain and wind? <br /><br />“Who’s to say? “ He shrugged and continued to watch the poking rock resembling a baby dragon’s head, laying low, quietly observing him while its shallow breaths created the steady ripples on the water. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The End.</i></b></div>
Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-34428486874235096102017-02-10T20:24:00.003-05:002023-07-13T03:38:15.753-04:00The Blue Moon Dragon (Revised)<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"><u>The Blue Moon Dragon (Revised)</u></span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i><b><i>(An Original Dragon Love Story by BoSt) </i></b></i></b></div>
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<b><i><u><span style="font-size: large;">PART 1</span></u></i></b></h3>
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<b><i><br />Once upon a time on an enchanted island far, far away there was a mighty Blue Dragon, the last of his kind, who inhabited a majestic mountain cave. <br /><br /> Long before he was born a meteorite crashed into this Planet and devastated the entire island, causing a massive extinction of many species including the antediluvian Dragon Kingdom. The Dragon Queen, with her gift of premonition, foresaw this cataclysm. When her warning fell on deaf ears, she arranged to have both of her precious blue and green eggs stored with the necessary provisions deep in the caverns of a mighty mountain. No one could have imagined that the scale of devastation and upheaval would be so catastrophic and far-reaching; hence they all perished leaving the land barren for many centuries to come. Meanwhile of the two eggs carefully stored in the depths of the mighty cave only one had survived to hatch. The blue dragon therefore was born into a lonely existence and grew up fending for himself. Eventually the land recovered and other life-forms began to thrive in this rich, pristine environment. <br /><br />The blue dragon, now grown larger still, with his giant wings often soared through the skies in search of food, longing to find evidence of other dragons. <br /><br />During his searches when earthquakes, landslides or other such catastrophes unearthed the remnants of the ancient Dragon civilization he discovered vast stores of knowledge that revealed the cosmic secrets of the universe and the gateway to the many other worlds that lay beyond the mystical sea surrounding his world. Unfortunately he also came to realize that he was alone, and would be alone forever, as the Age of Dragons had come to an end. Rage and sorrow took hold of him and the explosive energy he unleashed very nearly destroyed the island once again. <br /><br />He regained his senses just in time. Coming to grips with reality, he settled down and searched the surviving stores of knowledge, assimilating this vast information in gradual segments. Meanwhile he’d already learned purely by accident that close proximity to the sun always helped to regenerate him. Proximity to the moon pacified his senses and, by the same token, he discovered the joys of meditative serenity.<br /><br />As he grew in maturity, possessing more knowledge now, he ventured through the doorways to other existing worlds. On these many excursions, he discovered other lands over the mystic seas, realms that were populated by strange flora and creatures. Further and further he went searching for adventure or, perhaps, a likely companion. He was innately precautious and concealed his presence well. By this time he’d acquired many mystical powers. Beside that of concealment, he was now able to shape-shift into other living forms, however large or small. This made him bolder as he integrated into still stranger circumstances, such as those of the two-legged human creatures. <br /><br />He mingled among them learning their complex structures of dialogue, barter, social etiquettes and their varied rules of governance. He found that, with practice, he could maintain his disguise for longer and longer periods, but never longer than a span of one night. His concealment was also more effective at night, for sunshine was too invigorating for him to constrain his powers.<br /><br />End of Part 1</i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>PART 2</u></span></i></b></h3>
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<b><i><br />Once at dusk while flying over a well fortified powerful kingdom a strange sound wafted to his ears and, looking down, he spotted well manicured lawns and gardens with carefully structured pools and bridges. He’d never seen so fine a garden and so he swooped silently down and, as soon as his feet touched a branch, he transformed himself into a songbird. <br /><br />It was a fine summer’s twilight with a light breeze that invited all beings into the outdoors. A group of people were laughing and chattering, advancing towards the tree he was perched on. He withdrew to the cover of thicker foliage to observe unheeded the small entourage now setting up a picnic down below. <br /><br /> The one among them standing to the side was particularly appealing. For one thing she had flawless white porcelain skin and was finely dressed. Her cascading golden hair was carefully managed with brilliant gems that gleamed like many stars in the full moonlight. She held a bouquet of flowers to her bosom so fragrant that it wooed his senses. The others, like flittering butterflies, rallied around her attempting to make her jovial and content. This somewhat amused the Dragon and he watched their behaviour and hers without tiring of it for the entire length of their gathering. When they prepared to leave he at once made himself invisible and followed after. His curiosity led him all the way back to her quarters but, seeing that they all went to bed, he reluctantly took his leave, flying out the open window. But at least he knew where this interesting creature dwelled, and he promised himself to return the next nightfall. <br /><br />At first he was content watching her from afar in disguise but, bit by bit, he became smitten with her strange but sweet ways. By then he understood more of the ways of humans and how he might win her affections. Fortunately, she valued her time alone and often would send her attendants away on some fool’s errand just to gain some solitary, quiet moments by herself. Often she managed to sneak away at the conclusion of dinner to spend a tranquil period in the library. At other times she contrived to spend a few moments outside among the beds of flowers, leaning her back to a tree in contemplative repose. It was on one such occasion when the Blue Dragon decided at long last to approach her. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Desiring not to frighten her and wishing for a favorable response, he first transformed himself into a human male. He’d seen certain illustrations in poetry books, specific figures that she expressed some interest in, therefore he fashioned himself into a mixture of those features she liked best: a youth of similar age, rather handsome and dressed in fineries. He even picked a name for himself: Maviaku Brug, which translates as, ‘Blue Moon Dragon’. <br /><br />He knew enough of the rules of propriety not to manifest and accost her in her private quarters, so he waited for an opportunity when she retreated into the garden seeking some solitude. Their first meeting was somewhat awkward and, regrettably still caused her a fright. But he soon talked his way out of it and won her confidence with his charm and wit.<br /><br /> In time, during many more clandestine encounters, as they discovered they had the same zest for life and innocent fondness for adventure, they grew much more attached to each other. Of course all during the exchange they’d maintained the strictest propriety and observed proper decorum, thus nothing untoward or improper transpired between the two. This platonic love however had grown from bud to blossom soon possessing both their heart and soul. Eventually when Maviaku Brug revealed his true form to her, he was delighted to find it made no difference at all. Meanwhile he was now free to not only share his innermost qualms but also, on the plus side, the multitude of advantages and joys that come with being a dragon. <br /><br />Often, on her insistence, she was whisked away into the clouds riding on his back to view the world in a new thrilling way, an elation she could never have experienced without him. She was so happy then, that all else, all mundane earthly matters simply vanished in a puff. Hours spent with him simply melted away but when he was absent her heart pained with that unbearable longing for his company.<br /><br />One fine evening, while resting on a strange high meadow by a spring, he reached forward and gently clasped her hand and looked questioningly deep into her eyes. No words were necessary, she simply nodded her assent and from that moment on they were bonded forever. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />With a shy smile he drew a small packet from his robe, wrapped in a blue cloth that shimmered as if with the light of many stars. When she opened it she saw it was a figurine of a songbird.<br /><br />Looking lovingly into her eyes Maviaku explained its meaning, “It is made from the stones of the Moon, where I stay when I want to be close to you, and it is shaped like the songbird I became when I observed you and your attendants in the courtyard that first evening. Keep it to remind yourself of me, and my eternal love for you.”<br /><br />“I shall cherish it forever. “ She kissed the bird’s beak then reached forward to lovingly hold his hand. <br /><br />End of Part 2<br /><br /> </i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>PART 3</u></span></i></b></h3>
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<b><i><br />Unfortunately all good things must come to an end. One stormy night their closely guarded secret was discovered by a jealous attendant and, when promptly brought to the attention of His Majesty, his fury knew no bounds. He had three sons but only one daughter and now his darling daughter had being sullied by this, this dastardly intruder.<br /><br />Immediately, a trap was devised to capture this brazen interloper. When the opportunity struck armed guards descended on him. Maviaku Brug could have transformed himself into his true form and incinerated them all, but he was far too concerned for the Princess’ well being, so he allowed himself be captured and brought in chains before his Majesty.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />The King was in a murderous mood, and could not be reasoned with. Despite severe beating and torture the truth could not be attained, yet a most heinous, ruthless punishment was pronounced upon the presumed culprit. Badly bruised, bleeding profusely with many ribs and bones broken (for in this form he was as vulnerable as any human was) Maviaku was dragged outside by his chains for the administration of his harsh punishment. As soon as he was outside of the audience hall he was able to use his skills and simply vanished into thin air.<br /><br />The poor guards unfortunately were made to suffer for their failure. Meanwhile the Princess was confined to new quarters high up in a tower and this time, placed under close scrutiny. She was watched day and night as the general consensus was that she was under the spell of a malevolent sorcerer. <br /><br />For the good part of the year she was a virtual prisoner, never allowed a moment’s peace in all that time, nor was she left alone for a single moment. Day after day, month after month, the attending Priests and palace doctors had came to and fro, at first keeping her heavily sedated then gradually endowing her with small portions of added liberties. <br /><br />She was eventually allowed to return to her more luxurious former quarters after she pretended she had been cured from the paranormal malady. Despite all their persuasive methods and medicinal concoctions they forced to ingest, however, deep within her soul and heart she’d maintained the seeds of affection for her beloved Maviaku. When things grew unbearable she drew strength from her memories of times shared with him. This source of happiness, the like of which she’d never known, was, after all, inexhaustible. So long as she drew breath she knew she could never forsake him for he, her first true love, was already an inseparable part of her being. <br /><br /> ~<br /><br />Three nights hence would be the second full moon of the last month of the year, also known as a Blue Moon. Theirs was a superstitious nation, so many candles were lit and the residual smoke from the burning of incense imbued with scent crafted to scare away evil, permeated the air till dawn. Meanwhile, the Priests beat drums and held prayer sessions and sacrifices to appease the wandering evil spirits of the Blue Moon.<br /><br />As soon as dusk fell, confident in their measures to rid the Palace of the least evil, exhausted from vigorous day’s activities, all denizens of the Palace and city had fallen into deep slumber peacefully tucked under warm quilts in their beds. Complete silence prevailed throughout the Palace and the land.<br /><br />At stroke of midnight the Princess suddenly awoke with a start. She had sensed movement in the room. True enough there he was, the handsome young man was now turning away from the window to smile at her. How fortunate that she had left the window ajar.<br /><br /> “Please do not be frightened?” He approached her hesitantly. “I’m sorry I’ve disturbed you. “ He bit the corner of his lip to constrain the bursting emotions of rage and sorrow. “You’ve endured such hardship on my account…I meant to come earlier, but…”<br /><br />“It is I who should beg your forgiveness.” She interjected and, eyes brimming with tears, she shook her head in dismay. “They’ve treated you so abominably. And I, oh I felt so helpless to do anything about it!”<br /><br />In truth, she’d done her best to sway them. In the beginning she’d even secured her mother’s help by appealing to her compassion and when that yielded no result, enlisted her brothers’ help to reason with a father hell bent on revenge. But it was all to no avail. Instead, all her efforts had further convinced His Majesty of her possession by the evil sorcerer (otherwise known as the Blue Moon entity), as well as necessitating harsher measures and her prolonged incarceration. <br /><br />“It grieves me to say this, but I’ve come to bid you farewell. I will not forget you, ever.” Maviaku turned to hide the emerging tears. <br /><br />Rushing over she grabbed his arm and in a sobbing voice pleaded, “Please don’t go. But, if you must, I want to go with you, wherever that may be!”</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />He smiled and, cupping her face, looked deep into her eyes. “I’ve come to love you so very much. “ He leaned over and gently planted a kiss on her forehead. “Know this, regardless of any future outcome; you are now and forever will be my one and only mate.” <br /><br />His face grew grim and he nodded. “However, I should have known there was so little, perhaps no chance at all, for us. I’m sorry; this is the way it must be for now. “He turned to go, then stopped, and after a thoughtful pause, drew from his finger a ring. He then took off his shiny blue cloak and presented both of them to her.<br /><br />“One thing I have learned is that there are infinite possibilities to this universe and that nothing in it can be deemed impossible. Out of my deep regard and affection for you, I offer you the freedom to choose. Conceal this ring well and guard our shared secret. Wear this garment when the Blue Moon manifests and remember that I love you from afar. If, at the conclusion of your life span, you still have same affections for me, put on this ring on your forefinger and don the blue cloak. On that night I give you my solemn pledge that I will return and from that day hence, we shall be eternally together.” <br /><br />He then transformed into a song-bird and flew out the window.<br /><br />Wiping her tears, she folded the garment carefully and placed it in the drawer of her night table but she sought a more secure location to hide the ring. As it so happened there was a stone encased in loose mortar in a dark corner of the room behind some furniture. She’d discovered it when she was a child and concealed her most prized possessions there. It also contained the moon rock he had sculpted to resemble a bird. Opening this niche she placed the ring alongside her other prized possessions. Then, though overcome with fatigue, when she went back to her bed and lay down, she was too emotionally overwrought to sleep. <br /><br />End of Part 3<br /><br /> </i></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b><b><i><u>PART 4 (The Conclusion)</u></i></b></span></h3>
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<b><i><br />She woke up feeling listless and somewhat disoriented when the sun’s brilliant rays streamed into the room. She lay still with her eyes closed and lent half an ear to the bustling feet and muted but excited conversations of the attendants’ eager anticipation of the day’s events. They were bustling about, carefully selecting and rearranging the formal garments she would wear that day. After the family breakfast in the main hall, there was to be a prayer session that would be presided over by His Eminence, that old coot, in the Grand Chapel. In truth, hoping but doubting the validity of last night’s series of events and her brief encounter with her beloved Maviaku, she maintained the farce of sleep as long as possible so as to carefully mull over the facts. <br /><br />The day‘s tedious ceremonies and events seemed to last forever, but as soon as she could, she seized the first available opportunity and snuck into her room, locked the door then proceeded to check the drawer. True enough, in there a strange blue garment was folded, but it was not gleaming or as extraordinary as she recalled. A moment later she fetched the ring from its hiding place and carefully examined it; running her fingers absently over the strange inscription underneath. She next brought out the moonstone bird and, caressing it, kissed its beak before placing it back. <br /><br />The garment, despite its apparent simplicity, was secretly treasured by her. Thereon, after each Blue moon when everyone retired for the night she would, without fail, quietly don the blue garment and sit by the window waiting for her beloved to return. But he never did. As a small consolation she would feel his presence and warm embrace however, as she sat while the garment, basking under the moon’s rays, brilliantly glistened and came to life with countless dancing stars.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>She was eventually forced to marry a Prince whose kingdom’s alliance was a political necessity. In time she bore three children to him. Her life in that other kingdom seemed surreal as she functioned within the parameters of acceptable behavior for the wife of a Crown Prince who then became a King. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>During these years, she never wavered once from her initial promise to her true beloved and wore the blue cloak every Blue Moon. She kept this secret well hidden from all, even her children.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Her warmongering husband the King eventually met his demise during one of his campaigns. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>After the elaborate funeral, the widowed Queen was allowed to return to the Palace in her homeland after her son, the Crown Prince, took the reins of power.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Eventually old age claimed the dowager Queen but by then her two other children had been married off to suitable diplomatic advantage and were living elsewhere. On this night of her final Blue Moon she asked her close confidant to fetch the plain blue cloak for her and help her don it. In tears the other did as she was bid and, complying with her wishes, left her Majesty alone. </i></b></div>
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<i><br /><b>With some difficulty she retrieved the ring from its old hiding place where it had lain for the many years since she had married. Finally the former Princess, now a dowager Queen, placed it on her fore-finger. Going over she sat by the window to await her beloved’s return.</b><br /><br /><b>This time he did come. He looked the same as before, not a day older. Her inhibition soon melted away when he reached forward and kissed her on the mouth, gently breathing his magical dragon’s breath into her parted lips. Instantly she was transformed into her young, vigorous, beautiful self. Better than her young self though, for she was now an immortal. </b><br /><br /><b> “Are you ready?” He asked lovingly.</b><br /><br /><b>“I’ve been ready all my life.” She smiled back at him.</b><br /><br /><b>He reached his hand to hold hers and muttered a spell. </b><br /><br /><b>Instantly she was transformed into a colorful songbird. </b><br /><br /><b>“I have so much to share, so much to teach you!” He elatedly laughed. </b><br /><br /><b>And then, with Maviaku leading the way, they flew together through the open window. As they ascended into the higher atmosphere they were both transformed into two blue dragons.</b></i></div><div><b><i><br />The following morning, when the chief attendant entered the Dowager Queen’s quarters to awaken Her Grace, there was no trace of either Her Majesty or the blue garment.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />The End.</i></b></div>
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-40657322431975704452017-01-12T21:24:00.001-05:002021-04-05T03:11:02.093-04:00General Prediction for 2017 Year of the Rooster<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Dragon's General Predictions for 2017 Year of the Rooster</span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i><br /><br />The Chinese Red Fire Rooster Year extends from January 28th 2017 to February 15th 2018. <br /><br />This Rooster Year is ruled by the fire element and it is a Yin year. The fiery temperament of the Rooster is expected to infuse more enthusiasm and energy into all activities, increasing hopes for better prospects for everyone. This is also the year to work hard and persevere in order to achieve your desired goals.</i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Forecast for Love and Relationships</span></i></b></h3>
<b><i><br />The tenth Chinese zodiac sign, the Rooster, gives 2017 the characteristics of ambition, pride, the desire to be admired, punctuality, courage, passion and a well-developed disposition for love and seduction. In regards to love the desire to overwhelm loved ones and to be overwhelmed by them will be strong. 2017 also promises to be a good year for singles wishing to get married as the year ushers in an abundance of romantic opportunities. As the Rooster is considered a very fertile bird, it augurs that there will be good chance for that anticipated addition to a family. Socially, the circle of friends for many will expand; however, family interests should always take precedence!</i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></i></b><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Forecast for Finance and Employment</span></i></b></h3>
<b><i><br />The year of the Rooster 2017 bodes well for everyone. It promises happiness, color and drama, but this has to be balanced with good old fashioned common sense and tried and true values. Roosters are also communal birds and the year of the Rooster 2017 predictions promises to be a lucky one for joint ventures. Professional relationships too will turn out to be fruitful. Do not complicate things by over thinking and analyzing too much.<br /><br /> On the whole it’s a favorable time for signing as many business contracts as possible and forming new partnerships. Keep in mind however that the Rooster tends to be overconfident and is prone to come up with nonsensical plans. While the colorful Rooster brings bright and happy days, he also dissipates energy. Disappointments and conflicts will arise unless one refrains from making speculative ventures; resist going off on wild goose chases or get rich quick schemes and instead, stick to practical and well-proven paths. Despite all the fuss and flap we can expect prudence to be the key in economic matters as the Rooster is a good money manager. <br /><br />Regarding employment, many will be striving for higher goals. The Year of the Rooster will be a year that will result in a flawless job no matter what it takes to achieve it. It will be a year when it is truly better to do less, but do it perfectly. This is also the year we may have to expend maximum effort for minimum gain. Caution is warranted. Do not aim too high or you are liable to get shot down. Try not to fuss too much. Details may not require looking into so long as you are mindful of the whole picture. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Politics and Economic Forecasts</span></i></b></h3>
<b><i><br />On the plus side, like the brave and chivalrous Rooster, many will triumph over difficulties and adversities. Nevertheless one needs to be flexible or risk missing out on new ideas and new life strategies. The year of the Rooster teaches the lessons of order, scrutiny and strategic planning. One way is to achieve psychological advantage over an adversary and use force only as a last resort. Everything will be precariously balanced in the Rooster’s year, as his dramatic personality can set off all kinds of petty disputes. All the same, 2017 will be the year where diplomacy wins!<br /><br />However, in 2017, we need to brace ourselves for a period of immense changes. Fire destroys Metal, and this destructive relationship means challenges double during the year. Yet, the Fire Rooster shines like a bright star in the dark sky, bringing hope and transformation to those who know how to act harmoniously around prevailing circumstances.<br /><br />Controversy abounds in a Rooster year, and in an entertaining way. In a Rooster year, we will hear more cutting criticisms of those in the public life and some feathers might be ruffled as pride is dented. Nevertheless, all will benefit from these rude awakenings. <br /><br />The motto for the year of the Rooster 2017 should be– Keep It Simple and don’t take offense at the slightest provocation. Remember, good values never go out of style, no matter how difficult it may seem to apply them. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br />The Rooster is proud of his appearance. In the Year of the Rooster 2017 invest in some really nice wardrobe items to make the best impression and be very well groomed in public. As the element for 2017 is red, do not use red in your clothes and accessories. Red colored stones like ruby, garnet and pink topaz too are better to be avoided. Instead, use colors that will complement the red and fire element. Earth colored items like brown or yellow are most suitable for all the 12 Chinese zodiac signs in 2017.<br /><br /> Medical advances are likely, old drugs and medicines will be rejected in favor of improved alternatives. Herbs, vitamins and yoga practices, consumption of health foods as well as the rejection of smoking and alcohol abuse continues to be a preference for more and more people.<br /><br />This year of the Rooster can bring a few wild goose chases that don’t quite work out. Independence and equality will characterize relationships. Theatrical presentations, books and movies will honor the classics. Old stories are retold and appreciated. Too much eccentricity and originality is suspect.<br /><br />The Year of the Rooster is symbolised by two elements: Yin fire sitting on top of metal. This is a strong clash of elements as fire defeats metal and creates a very destructive energy. With such conflicting elements this usually means much disharmony and conflicts, wars and serious disasters, especially those involving water throughout the world. <br /><br />Politically therefore, the Year of the Rooster 2017 it is a year when most nations will adhere to hard-line policies. Governments around the world will be flexing muscles and making threats but probably not following through unless faced with no other solution.<br /><br />Most nations will be most concerned with protecting the homeland and, unfortunately, it will be a year when most leaders and countrymen will take offense over the smallest thing.<br /><br />Canada is heading into a difficult time as the economy tightens and funds dwindle. This is truly a time to join forces with others to ease the stress.<br /><br />The Year of the Rooster 2017 is a year when the U.S. must not underestimate its opponents.<br /><br />The United Kingdom will continue to side with the U.S. They will find this a rather exhausting and perilous year on the home front.<br /><br />There are also real possibilities of disasters relating to water, earthquakes and natural disasters and the middle-east and Asian countries possibly including China will probably be the worst hit. The financial markets will probably grow in the first half of the year but the forecast from September onwards is not as good and you should think carefully in 2017 before making investments.</i></b></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>A succinct prediction for 2017 Chinese Animal Horoscopes:</i></b></span></h3>
<b><i><br />This will turn out to be an excellent year for the Dragons. The Snake, Ox and Rooster will have a great year. The Rats and Tigers too will have a good year. The Sheep, Pigs and Monkeys will have a mix of good and bad happenings while the Rabbits, Horses and Dogs might face a few problems. But as long as you have the will power and focus to overcome all challenges, nothing can stop you from reaching your targets.</i></b></div>
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-14665988696757771552016-06-26T00:24:00.000-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.101-04:00Dragons in Game of Thrones Unleash a Fiery Offensive<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Dragons in Game of Thrones Unleash a Fiery Offensive</span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />If you are lover of Dragons they you are in for a treat! The Dragons in Game of Thrones are stupendous to say the least. </i></b><br />
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Just a reminder: Unlike their Eastern cousins Dragons in Game of Thrones are massive, scaly reptilian creatures with two legs and two wings. Their wings are used as forelegs much like bats. They are awesome and fierce creatures with those razor sharp teeth and claws, fiery eyes, leathery wings and long, scaly necks and tails and the spiny crests running down their backs. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Previously we’d learned that Dragon’s scales were mostly impervious to flame, protecting the more vulnerable flesh underneath. In the fifth season Drogon in rushing to the rescue, Daenerys who was surrounded by the Sons of the Harpy, was pierced by some of their spears. </i></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">photo HBO</span></td></tr>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Do not fret however, for as the Dragon ages, its scales harden, becoming more impervious to harm. Also Dragons raised in captivity and enclosed spaces are smaller than their wild brethren. This explains the size difference between Daenerys’s three Dragons.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br />We know Dragons are capable of forming strong attachments to humans who raise them such as Daenerys, but they have a reasonably high level of animal intelligence which is also why they allowed Tyrion Lannister to draw close enough to remove their chains.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /> Dragons will not allow just anyone to mount them. They are selective of who they accept as their rider; of course a Valyrian heritage might be a factor. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Dragons were discovered some five thousand years ago by the Valyrians in the Fourteen Flames, a ring of volcanoes on the Valyrian peninsula. The Valyrians mastered the art of raising dragons and used them as weapons of war to carve out a massive empire. <br /><br />So sorry folks, unless another character of Valyrian heritage, perhaps Jon Snow, is found Daenerys will remain the sole rider of Dragons.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />The adult Dragon’s flaming breath is so fierce that it would melt steel and stone. Therefore when defending Mareen, the three Dragon’s fiery offensive against The Master’s galleon assured the complete and swift destruction of that vessel. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Furthermore, with staunch support from these three powerful Dragons, Daenerys is certain to be the next supreme ruler of Westros.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br />Here are some pictures from the Game of Thrones Season's Finale:</i></b><br />
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-92159391755336671672016-05-28T04:31:00.002-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.111-04:00Dragons in the Home with Feng Shui Considerations<b><i><br /></i></b><h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Dragons in the Home with Feng Shui Considerations</span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i><br /><br />If you are one of those people who love Eastern Dragons then it’s to be expected that you would populate your home with as many Dragon images as possible. After all, unlike its nasty cousins in the west, this divine mythical creature, which is also one of the four celestial animals, is highly regarded, even worshiped. </i></b><div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />The Dragons of the East have always been considered symbols of success, power, nobility, divine protection and vigilance. <br /><br /> In accordance with Feng Shui principles, Dragons are imbued with the potent and auspicious symbol of yang/male energy. Similarly, a pearl, or a crystal, in the Dragon's claw symbolizes wealth, power and an abundance of opportunities. Therefore, avoid having the pearl in the Dragon's claw facing toward the window or the door.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Endowed with divine attributes the Dragon brings the essence of life in the form of celestial breath known as sheng chi. As Feng Shui is essentially all about capturing and creating sheng chi, it is this element that attracts wealth luck, good fortune, courage, creativity, abundance and success to those who possess the symbol of Dragon. In addition Dragons can fend off the negative energy of evil spirits, and bestow protection to those who embrace its representations. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Having a Dragon in any part of your home or business premises is auspicious as it represents ultimate Feng Shui for the well-being of the entire family. Therefore people for thousands of years have been using the Dragon as a powerful symbol to revitalize areas of their lives. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />So we all agree Dragons are great and generally having a Dragon in almost any area of your home is considered auspicious save for a few restrictions. <br /><br />Firstly, when considering the best location and positioning of the Dragon in your home, you may take into account your lucky Feng Shui directions. Keep in mind however, that the location of the Feng Shui wealth star changes every year, so you may have to change the direction the Dragon is facing as well. <br /><br />The Dragon should be placed facing towards the house (to bring in the energy of wealth and prosperity) and not looking out the window.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />As mentioned earlier, Dragons are strong, powerful Feng Shui symbols and exude male energy. They are great for areas in one’s life that require strength, courage, protection, enthusiasm, and prosperity. But don’t have Dragon images that are overwhelming or uncomfortable to be around. Stay away from purchasing pictures where the Dragon is confined in a circle. Do not place the Dragon facing a wall and certainly do not group them in threes in a home. The placement the Dragons should not be crowded or be in a cramped or restricted corner of the room. Keep in mind that Dragons need open space around them with good Chi flow, so as to symbolically fly. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />A good location for the Dragon can be in an office, a work area, or the living room. You can choose to place the Dragon based on the 8 Trigrams Pa Kua, location of current wealth flying star or your lucky directions. Ideally Dragon can be put on the wall behind you as you sit at your desk in an office. In this way you are well supported rather than challenging the Dragon, should you stare at it directly.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />As flowing water symbolizes flowing prosperity and good fortune, placing a Dragon figurine or a wall hanging with a Dragon image facing the kitchen faucet will enhance your good opportunities for accumulating prosperity in all forms. <br /><br />You can also place a Dragon image facing any fountain and other clean water sources. Do not place the Dragon in lower-energy areas such as toilets, the bathroom, the closets or the garage. Being a celestial creature, the Dragon must be treated with utmost respect. Likewise, avoid having rugs with Dragon images where you step on them.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Placement of Dragons in the bedroom warrants some caution as the male energy is too strong. But if you must have one, do not have a solitary Dragon. If you wish to energize romance, you may pair the Dragon with a phoenix to balance the energy. This way they become the ultimate Feng Shui symbol of marital bliss.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Another Feng Shui taboo is to avoid placing the Dragon too high, above eye level to ensure they are constantly under your control. Also, do not place many Feng Shui cures too close to your Dragon.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />You obviously love Dragons but you must resist the urge to have too many of them in your home. Feng shui-wise, the maximum recommended number of Dragons in the home is 5 Dragons.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />As the images of Dragon come in various colours, here are some Feng Shui attributes: a green Dragon serves as an excellent Feng Shui cure for the east, which is the health area; while a golden Dragon offers Feng Shui cure for wealth and abundance. This of course depends on the 8 Trigrams Pa Kua, location of current wealth flying star or your lucky directions. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />As mentioned earlier, Dragon’s are great in the Wealth area and can be combined with water to symbolize prosperity coming into your home. In this area, the best color for Dragons is either the color of water (black, dark blues, dark blue green, etc.) or the color of money (green or gold) or the color of vitality and energy (red).</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Keep in mind Dragons are powerful and magical creatures with abundant energy that can flow either way. Provide the Dragon a lot of breathing room and treat the Dragon with respect.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Good luck.</span></i></b></div>
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-29834850466548934022016-04-09T05:19:00.001-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.119-04:00Dragons and the Spring Thaw<b><i><br /></i></b>
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Dragons and the Spring Thaw</span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i><br /><br />Although the origin of Dragon Myths is not clear, their supposed existence can be traced as far back as 400 B.C. Some speculate that dinosaur fossil discoveries had a lot to do with advancing this belief. In any case the exciting stories of dragons can be found on every continent throughout history with the exception of Antarctica, for the climate there is an impediment for these creatures that like fire, live in water, but not ice water. </i></b><br />
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />And now the big question where Dragon does live?<br /><br />A mythical creature, they are believed to live in wet, damp caves, at the centre of the earth, in forests, or in the middle of the ocean; preferably far, far away from any civilized settlement. If, on occasion, a castle is long since abandoned and permanently forsaken by any human beings, the Dragon my take up residence there and that’s how the legend of Dragons occupying certain castles came into being. But I digress; whether Dragons are viewed as villains or as benevolent creatures depends on the geographical location and the culture. Unfortunately in western civilization Dragons are always meant to perish. Dragons are perpetually represented as villains that are to be bested and killed by the indomitable hero that goes on a quest to rid this scourge of society (a terrible beast that breaths fire, has poisonous claws and guards great treasure) and is rewarded in the end by being granted the hand of a beautiful princess. <br /><br />In Greek mythology the story of Perseus and the Dragon of Poseidon tells of a vain queen who almost sacrificed her daughter to the Dragon, had it not been for Perseus. We all have seen that movie.<br /><br />At least the ancient Romans considering Dragons as mystical beasts that held the secrets of the earth, they looked to Dragons as a source of knowledge and used them as symbols of strength for their military. <br /><br />Meanwhile, in England, stories are full of accounts of Dragons and how anyone who killed these terrible monsters was awarded with knighthood. In one such story there was a young man who fought a Dragon for the reward of bringing the king's daughter to his master for marriage. But Tristan was tricked by another man who coveted the princess’s hand. In the end Tristan cut off the Dragon's tongue as proof of his accomplishment and the lies of the other man were uncovered.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />And let us not forget, during Christopher Columbus’ time, when the world was believed to be flat, Dragons were assumed to inhabit the oceans especially at the edge of earth, waiting to devour anyone who dared to trespass into the Dragon’ territory and sail that far into the ocean. Needless to say, this false belief deterred much sea exploration. Ancient maps furthered this belief marking the place where these Dragons supposedly lived, that is at the edge of the map, with an imprint,” Here Be Dragons”. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />Having said this, I cannot resist mentioning one more fable: “A Norseman fights off a sea dragon.” This story comes to us from Norway. <br /><br />There was once a powerful King, who loved his daughter very much but had to leave her behind in the castle while he went away (probably warring) on a long trip. He left her in the care of a tiny Dragon who was to be her guardian. The princess was skeptical of the tiny creatures’ prowess, fearing that if danger manifested it could not protect her. However, the Dragon soon grew into a tremendous size. He grew so large in fact that he was able to wrap his body all around the castle and not let anyone in or out of it. When the king finally returned home, even he was not permitted inside the castle. The only recourse now was to kill this beast of a dragon. Even the mightiest warriors however remained hesitant to undertake this perilous task. As an incentive the desperate King offered his daughter’s hand in marriage to anyone capable of killing this dreaded monster. A few brazen souls went forth to encounter the Dragon but unfortunately no man in Norway was capable of this feat and all forfeited their lives prematurely. Eventually a youth from Sweden succeeded in this task and as his reward he married the princess and they returned to Sweden together to live happily ever after.<br /><br />I favor the Asian view of the Dragon. Here they are celestial, spiritual beings that have religious and cultural importance. Dragons, endowed with supernatural or magical powers, possess certain wisdom and represent long-life. And Dragons most predominantly play a vital role in the outcome of the weather. This brings my narrative back to spring thaw, with lightning in the sky and the spring showers or the melting of ice. My thoughts naturally turn to the concept of Dragons big and small. Celebrating spring, I celebrate the Dragon.<br /><br />Here are some pictures of spring thaw 2016:</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /> <br /><br />Fini<br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> </i></b></div>
Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-7941888607805350802016-02-20T03:01:00.002-05:002021-04-05T03:11:02.126-04:00Dragon's Animal Predictions for 2016 - The Year of the Monkey<br />
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<b><i>Born: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 2 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Grey, Brown <br /><br /> <br /><br /> The year of the Goat was a busy year for the Rat and it came with both highs and lows. It’s wiser however, to focus on the highs and build on them while using lows as necessary life lessons that had to be learned. <br /><br />The Rat will be very active socially in the closing months of the year of the Goat and must be diligent in order to avoid embarrassing double bookings. Swarmed with invites, Rats should also reserve some time to spend with the family and close friends and gain some of the best memories. It goes without saying the end of the year could also be an expensive time for the Rats therefore they are cautioned to be vigilant with their finances, especially with big expenditures. As work will also be just as hectic the Rat should avoid unnecessary distractions and focus on meeting deadlines in the closing months of the year of the Goat. <br /><br /> The year of the Monkey can be a promising and rewarding one for the Rat and it can bring Rats lots of new opportunities. Rats are poised to receive most valuable help and support from family and friends in order to correctly make some pretty big decisions over the course of the next twelve months. <br /><br />Rats who feel stymied in their current work position and are looking for a whole new path could have some encouraging prospects and see new opportunities to train in different fields this year. With plenty of changes coming their way throughout the year, especially in the workplace, the Rat can look forward to rewarding and positive outcomes with plenty of recognition and success this year. In order for the Rat to make the most of the Year of the Monkey, however, they need to broaden their horizons, focus on expanding self-development and train in developing new skills. Rat should express enthusiasm in any new role as this can help further them. <br /><br />Travel opportunities are looking promising for the Rat as well this year, especially in the workplace if they are in a field where long distance meetings are required or there is possibility of relocation. <br /><br />Finances will also be promising for the Rat this year and any advancement in employment may mean additional money. Monkey years favor care and planning and so it would be wise for the Rat to be mindful of their spending and plan ahead for any future big purchases. Saving money early on in the year can alleviate any impending stress. <br /><br />Monkey years in general favour relationships and as a result the Rat’s love life will be propitious, particularly for the unattached Rat. Being immersed in social activities throughout the year and remaining sociable, Rats will acquire new acquaintances, new friends and even form a stronger bond with some. <br /><br />Rats that are in a relationship that is relatively new can find their relationship becoming more significant with milestones such as moving in together and even fostering the possibility of marriage. <br /><br />For the married Rats their home life will be very busy and will see a lot of joyous events with family members and changes to their dwelling if they wish to make improvements. The Rat will need to consult with other family members on changes in the home however and ensure that everyone will be on board with new ideas. <br /><br />Typically, as the Rat will be quite busy with scores of activities this year, they need to prioritize their time and reserve some of it to unwind, relax and recharge, indulge in hobbies or, enjoy leisurely, recreational pursuits. Rats really need to relax, as their chi body constitution is very weak this year. Summer time is a great time for the Rat native to take a short trip or long holiday. A thing to remember is that these trips can be a lot more enjoyable when the Rat researches the area they are visiting. <br /><br />Overall, the year of the Monkey is looking to be very good for the Rat and they will have a lot of encouraging prospects to look forward to in 2016. Sitting on ideas and plans can bring problems to the Rat so they will need to put their plans in motion as soon as possible and focus on completing pending projects. Be careful whom you trust as those with ulterior motives loiter around you, and be careful when signing contracts. Romance luck is good if you put in a little extra effort this year. <br /><br />And finally, Rats are in affinity with the Ox. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of an Ox or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of an Ox with them at all times throughout 2016. <br /><br />Have an amazing year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini </i></b><br />
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<b><i><br /><br />Born: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 6, 10 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Red, Orange, White, Gold <br /><br />The year of the Monkey will be an interesting year for the Ox. The speed at which certain things transpire may be little unsettling at first but, adapting to this change quickly, the Ox will be able to accomplish great things and derive benefit from the abundant opportunities that come their way this year. <br /><br />The Monkey Year is famous for fostering creativity and self-development. Whether in their work or personal life, Oxen would be wise to take advantage of available training programs and acquire new skills. These accomplishments can be a huge benefit to the Ox not only this year but in the coming years as well. <br /><br />In general work life in 2016 will be a good one for the Ox. Granted, there will be a lot of happenings this year, a few not to the Ox's liking and there may even be some problems arising from time to time in the workplace. If the Ox learns to correctly utilize training and their newly acquired skills they will be able to enjoy both success and advancement in the work place. Hence, if offered the chance to train or learn a new skill, the Ox should quickly seize this opportunity and commit to it 100% for this will also serve them well in the coming years. <br /><br />Those Oxen seeking a new employment or changing a career may find things also transpiring rapidly in 2016. Best to stay alert for any possible openings that are of particular interest then act swiftly on it to secure that coveted position. It also helps to be completely prepared for interviews by having proper training and being in possession of prior information on the company in which they wish to be employed. <br /><br />Finances are looking very promising for the Ox in 2016 and much of this will be due to their progress at work. The year of the Monkey encourages challenges and trying new things. The Ox therefore should immerse themselves in hobbies and challenges whenever possible. In fact it will be most advisable for the Ox to take some time off to recharge and to unwind. By involving friends and loved ones with their time off they can bond with each other in a like-minded activity. Meanwhile, with their cautious planning and innate bartering skills, the Ox should feel free to spend his/her money on acquiring new gadgets, trips etc. Still, putting some money aside for the future can be beneficial to the Ox. <br /><br />The Ox’s character is usually reserved and they can be quite particular with people they meet until they know them better. Because things happen quickly in Monkey years, the Ox should be ready to enjoy some surprising and fantastic times with new people in new situations. <br /><br />The Ox can look forward to stronger relationship with their partner this year. Home life will require some care though; as this is a fast paced year and certain problems may arise that require delicate action. Ox needs to resolve any rising unexpected problems swiftly before they get out of hand. Remember to be mindful of the feelings of others. A direct approach to the problem will be the best way to diffuse any dangerous situation and satisfactorily resolve conflicts. <br /><br />This is a year of major transformations in the Ox’s life. Throughout the year, unexpected plans will rise randomly but the Ox need not fret as these can often bring good results. Even though the fast pace of the year may sometimes be worrisome, the Ox can still look forward to exciting times ahead in 2016 and, as well, enjoy the support of family and friends. The love compatibility between singles will blossom and it is a good year for getting married and having children. This year, it is easy for the Ox to have accidents and get sick, so they need to exercise caution. The Ox should also be careful while dealing with finances in 2016. <br /><br />The Ox is in affinity with the Rat; for their protection therefore, they should have a key chain pendant of a Rat or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rat with them at all times throughout the year. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i>2016 Dragon’s Predictions for the Tiger</i></span></h3>
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<b><i><br />Born: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 4, 12 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Green, Blue, Black <br /><br />The year of the Yang Fire Monkey begins on the 8th February 2016. The year will not be smooth sailing unfortunately; it will require some care and planning for the Tiger. Bracing for what’s to come should make things easier. This year the Tiger will have a better idea about what they want out of life; however they need to concentrate more on details rather than solely focusing only the big picture. <br /><br />The Tigers work life can see some progress this year and those who are well established in their career can see growth and new responsibilities; provided they take a hands-on approach at the appropriate time. Networking will also be favorable for the Tiger. <br /><br />There may be a lot of Tigers looking for a fresh start in their career this year. Those looking for new employment should brace themselves for the possibility of ample rejections before they see positive results as the job seeking process will be rather tough in 2016. Additionally, any progress may fall short of what the Tiger had expected. All the same, with due diligence and persistence in utilizing their innate resources, they could still land a good position in a good company and even excel in the later part of the year. The thing to remember is that, when the Tiger finds employment, they should take on a very committed approach and show determination to their new employer. <br /><br />Tigers should think twice before making any investments or executing important decisions this year. They should not take any shortcuts to wealth; any illegal venture this year will certainly result in imprisonment. Nevertheless, finances are looking steady for the Tiger provided they apply some care and research when making big purchases. There will be a lot of Tigers looking to buy some new technology and equipment for their home. Tigers have a good eye for style and this can help them over the year to make some nifty and worthwhile acquisitions. The Tiger is going to have to stay on top of paperwork this year and make sure that they meticulously read through everything before signing papers and make sure that everything is handed in on time. This can seem boring, though spending the time to ensure accuracy now could save the Tiger any potential mistakes, fines and added costs in the future. <br /><br />The Tiger’s relationship with others is going to require some caution this year. They should treasure their partner in order to avoid strained relationship or possible separation. <br /><br />If the Tiger handles projects too frequently on their own, excluding others, they risk not receiving any support when they need it. If any disagreements and problems arise with friends and colleagues in the work place this year it should be dealt with quickly and effectively. The Tiger will need to liaise well with a measure of sensitivity in order to minimize, or avoid, lasting upset. On the whole the Tiger should learn to keep their mouth shut as it won't be a good time to settle accounts. <br /><br />The Tiger enjoys being kept busy and in the year of the Monkey, there will be plenty of things to do. The Tiger will get plenty joy from local events this year and should join a group or sports team as well as pursue any solitary activities or hobbies. This is also an opportune time for the Tiger to initiate a new hobby or activity as the Year of the Monkey fosters the development of new skills. Travel opportunities are looking very good for the Tiger and they are poised to take advantage from any last minute deals to visit places they’ve always aspired to see. <br /><br />The Tiger's home life will be fast paced with a great deal of activity, family events and celebrations in 2016. The Tiger can come up with some very good ideas and a lot of exciting developments that will benefit their home. The Tiger however needs to hone good communication skills with family members and prioritize quality time together to prevent any future disputes. <br /><br />The Tigers in general have plenty of friends; however they may find that, as the year goes on, they could grow aloof with certain people. They need to allocate some time to see friends and to evaluate relationships in order to weed out unnecessary ties and to discover true and enduring friends. As mentioned before, during the course of the year the Tiger could find themselves embroiled in disagreements with friends; when this happens and it is it is justified, they should try diffusing the situation as quickly as possible. They can also be given the chance to meet new people. Overall, the year of the Monkey may come with its problems for the Tiger but this is nothing that they can’t resolve and besides, there is still a lot to achieve and to anticipate. <br /><br />Tigers are in affinity with the Pig/Boar. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Pig or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Pig with them at all times. Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<b><i><br />Born: 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 4 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Green <br /><br /> <br /><br />The year of the Monkey is going to be a mixed year for the Rabbit with both high and low points throughout the year. Fortunately the Rabbit has a good disposition and a very good rapport with others and this will serve them well this year. It’s important to note that when faced with problems and difficult situations, the Rabbit's attitude can help them receive the right kind of support, advice and lucidity to solve any problems. <br /><br />The Rabbit’s work life will be challenging and somewhat disruptive this year with additional new staff in the work place. To fare well the Rabbits need to adapt to this circumstance quickly and get accustomed to their new roles and tasks in the early part of the year for these changes may be permanent. Those Rabbits that can acclimatize fast and show the initiative and desire for betterment can utilize this to their advantage and gain esteem from their peers. <br /><br />Those looking to change career or who are seeking employment should find that their hard work will pay off this year. The Rabbit could gain that lucrative position by remaining positive and diligent in their job search. <br /><br />The Fire Monkey year being auspicious for earnings and finances, 2016 can also be a good return on investment period for Rabbits. However they could still misread contracts and make errors with paperwork. Documents must be checked with meticulous attention to detail before signing this year and professional advice sought to clarify rules and regulations before any agreement is reached. The Rabbit should also strive be well organized with invoices and bills this year in order to avoid paying late fees for missed deadlines. There is also the risk that some of their employees may decide to betray them. Of course Rabbits always land squarely back on their feet and get their due but all the same they should be cautious and be on the lookout for losers among their friends. <br /><br />Even though the Rabbit is good with financial matters, the Rabbits home life can see plenty of changes in 2016. This could result in disruptions to the overall flow of things creating unwarranted problems. To avoid disharmony and to strengthen family bonds the Rabbit and other members of the family should work in unison, as a team, this year. They can collectively set realistic goals and, in sync, complete a great many changes and home improvements. <br /><br />The Rabbit should allocate some time for hobbies and interests as the year of Monkey is most favorable for these sorts of endeavors. Therefore it’s a green light for all those Rabbits that might have something they wanted to learn or try their hand at but have procrastinated till now. <br /><br />The Rabbit should start the year of the Monkey looking for ways to improve their diet as this can prevent lot of minor afflictions throughout the year. Staying healthy and getting regular exercise is recommended for the Rabbit this year and if they can involve their family this would be a great way to enjoy time together. Sorry, but now comes the bad news: the Rabbit may find that either they or someone close to them suffers from an illness this year. When this happens, they should do their research to ease or to alleviate serious worry. Seek professional help for any problems with health and fitness concerns this year, as this is not a time to brave it alone, simply soldier on then hope for the best. <br /><br />The Rabbit’s social life will be active, though problems are still very much in the forecast. The Rabbit will have differences of opinion with friends over the course of the year. Best to avoid any confrontation, especially when one is angry, as this could quickly turn into serious arguments. <br /><br />The Rabbit’s love life is looking very hopeful this year and those in a relationship, especially a new one, can see a lot of progress. There may even be engagement proposals in the forecast. Single Rabbits and those who have recently experienced heartbreak can look forward to meeting a new partner and this may come completely by chance through a fateful encounter or introduction by a friend. <br /><br />Overall, the Rabbit have the best luck this year. There will be lots of progress, abundant wealth and copious business opportunities, therefore, lots to look forward to. Rabbits shouldn’t get carried away though or they might lose their wealth, and they also need to watch out for their health. This may be a good time for them rethink their personal habits in order to improve their self and to attain strength. Rabbits also have soaring romance luck and singles will meet their ideal partners. <br /><br />Rabbits are in affinity with the Dog. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of Dog or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Dog with them at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<b><i><br />Born: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 8 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Blue, Black, White, Gold <br /><br /> <br /><br />The Dragon may begin the year of the Monkey with scores of plans to make this year as successful as possible and accomplish great many things. Monkey years however are known to bring sudden changes which could lead to mistakes and unexpected results. <br /><br />People born under the sign of the Dragon do not have the best of luck this year but, if they maintain optimism and persevere, they can sail through all challenges. The Dragon should avoid making investments this year and definitely resist gambling. They should lie low and plan ahead for the long term. Dragons also need to be discerning about potential partners and be sure to identify those with good intentions. People in relationships might have problems with their families. <br /><br />The Dragons work life on the other hand, is poised to have plenty of exciting developments this year as Monkey years favor innovation, new schemes and enterprise. This is an exciting year for the Dragon’s career and with their resourcefulness they can achieve a great many things involving new projects. It goes without saying that many Dragons will be promoted to higher positions in 2016. <br /><br />Some Dragons may feel that their skills can be better put to use in another company and then there are those that are seeking first time employment. In any case there will be many exciting opportunities available to Dragons and many will be advanced to better positions. The Dragon in the year of the Monkey may even find that job they’ve long aspired to. Careful planning and risk assessment can be a big help to the Dragon in their work life, especially when they are looking for new employment. To avoid potential problems the Dragon should not rush head long into anything at work without taking the time to adequately prepare for it. <br /><br />Dragons should not discount different fields of employment where their innate skills can be put to good use. Training can be an essential tool in areas where they are not familiar, for eventually the newly acquired skills will prove to be a boon by bringing them up to date and laying open possibilities for many good positions. Dragons should also be willing to accept any help they require. 2016 might be considered a hectic year for some Dragons who may face many trials that might force them to swallow their over-sized ego as it is best to remain calm under these circumstances. Dragons that are unwilling to accept certain compromises during the course of the year could see much of what they have built so far tumbling down. It’s a hard pill to swallow but Dragons should learn to control their rigidity if they don't want to find themselves in unfavorable situations. <br /><br />The Dragon should also remember not to rejoice too quickly at significant increases in their financial situation for unexpected changes can suddenly put an additional damper on the Dragon’s finances. In this very active year, the Dragon needs to keep a close eye on their monthly spending or they could soon find themselves running low on funds and, as a result, miss out on key events. Prudent planning and a good budget will be necessary to keep finances in good order. Caution is warranted when signing contracts or entering into agreements. The Dragon should read the fine print meticulously and make sure that they fully understand the terms. <br /><br />The Dragon’s social life will be demanding and at times rather hectic this year. During the year of the Monkey the Dragon will have lots of opportunities to get out and about and learn new skills. There will be many new things that would interest and excite the Dragon and they should try their hand at new hobbies where they will find they excel. Travel is also favored, especially if there is a place which the Dragon has long wished to visit. <br /><br />The Dragon’s home life will be very active this year as well. Dragons will need to work well with others and practice good communication skills in order to accomplish their many ambitious projects and plans. The Dragon may also risks losing interest shortly after starting a project in their home so they should stick to set timetables. <br /><br />Single Dragons could find that the year of the Monkey turns out to be a significant year for them although this will depend on what type of Dragon they are. <br /><br />In general 2016 should be a happy and rewarding year for the Dragon, with lots to do and a lot to see. With so many goings on they need to be mindful of others thoughts and needs however, as conflicts and disagreements could easily arise if they’re not careful. The affable Dragon can get some good, useful advice from those close to them and they should stay open to criticism and opinions. As painful as it may seem, some Dragons may be faced with a possibility of separation, which might have beneficial consequences in the end. Dragons shall then be able to resume their flight to greener pastures. <br /><br />Dragons are in affinity with the Rooster. For enhancement they should keep a key chain pendant of a Rooster or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rooster with them at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini </i></b></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i> 2016 Dragon's Animal Predictions for the Snake </i></span></h3>
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<b><i><br /><br />Born: 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 2, 6 and 10 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Grey, Brown, Red, Orange, White, Gold <br /><br />The year of the Monkey starts on the 8th February 2016. People born under the sign of the snake will have an excellent luck this year. On the whole 2016 will be a smooth sailing year and a good one to make suitable investments. It is also a good year for getting married and having children. The Snake needs to slow down their pace however when in dealing with finances and career choices. <br /><br />Most Snakes will be quite content in their current work place despite the fact that lots of changes will be in effect in 2016. Some Snakes could perceive changes as a threat to their accustomed ways of doing business but they shouldn’t worry, for they will soon realize that changes and their ensuing challenges can actually be a boon. It could pave the way for scores of opportunities and rewards. Respectively the Snake could be well suited to fill the post and take on a greater role in the company when key positions become available due to people leaving the company or senior members retiring. Interested Snakes should act fast though and express interest in the position that has just become available, as this is not a year to dawdle. The snake that is interested in self-development and strives to further their skills or learn new ones can go a long way winning them esteemed recognition from their peers. <br /><br />Snakes that are seeking new employment will be happy to know that circumstances will be fair; provided that the Snake remains persistent and researches different avenues. This would allow them to use their skills and qualifications, and result in attaining good positions. There is the possibility that some snakes could suffer a few setbacks at the start but, with their unyielding determination and positive attitude, they should still succeed. <br /><br />The resulting benefits of a good position will be a high salary and the financial gain. Should this not be enough some Snakes will find other ways, perhaps through a hobby or ideas, to augment their income. If the Snake is able to budget their money wisely they could accumulate a hefty sum by the end of the year. <br /><br />The Snakes personal interests and hobbies can bring a lot of joy, relaxation and even rejuvenation to their life. Usually the Snake is attracted to varied activities and hobbies, however the year of Monkey encourages change, therefore Snakes should explore different activities to see how best to improve. Care should be taken when the Snake is involved in dangerous activities and for good measure they should adopt sound safety tips and skills, as there is a risk of minor injury with this sort of physical activity. <br /><br />Snakes usually have a small group of close-knit associates and this year they will enjoy good rapport with their friends and can receive good support with their varied ventures. The Snake should however be circumspect and watch out for looming disagreements so as to avoid the risk of losing a close friend. Clear communication, a tolerant nature and a forgiving attitude can go a long way towards diffusing any trouble. <br /><br />Love life will be confusing. But sexually it might be satisfying with even news of pregnancy. The Snakes home life meanwhile will be a busy and eventful this year with ample things to do in and around the house. There will be many causes for celebrations and family members delighting in sharing their achievements with the Snake. Shared activities can help the Snake’s family to strengthen their original bonds. This being the case especially with travel, a family trip should be considered, if and when time and finances permit it. <br /><br />When upgrades and renovation are carried out in and around the home the Snake should stick to one task at a time and avoid taking on too many projects as the results could be disastrous. Its imperative the Snake practice good communication skills when interacting with members of the family and friends in order to keep potential disagreements at bay this year. Any problems that the Snake experiences should be discussed without delay and with a measure of sensitivity. <br /><br />Single Snakes could meet a potential partner from a chance meeting this year; therefore, they should adopt a more relaxed manner when encountering new acquaintances or groups. <br /><br />In general the year of the Monkey will be a less damaging year to Snakes than usual. 2016 Snakes' initial force being the Fire element, this year will be relatively consistent for them, as it is also dominated by Fire. Therefore during the year, Snakes can get the help they desire more often than usual. They could even receive help from unexpected sources when these problem areas are properly and accurately identified. Meanwhile the Snake needs to maintain maximum neutrality in crisis situations, and try to be less curious on certain topics that don't concern them directly if they don't want to get embroiled in this gulf of tensions. <br /><br />The Snake is in affinity with the Monkey. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Monkey or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Monkey with them at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini.</i></b><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i>2016 Dragon's Predictions for the Horse</i></span></h3>
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<b><i><br />Born: 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 6 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Red, Orange <br /><br /> <br /><br />The year of the Monkey begins on the 8th February 2016. People born under the sign of the horse will have a bit worse luck than last year; however if they remain optimistic there is nothing that they cannot handle. <br /><br />The Horse could fare well provided they use their skills wisely, be disciplined and avoid taking on too many concurrent projects. Juggling too many tasks simultaneously will work against the Horse as plans can suddenly vary in Monkey years. Be that as it may, the creativity of the Horse is very strong, which will attract envy during 2016. The horse could be plagued with stupid accidents and hindrances all through the year; they should therefore be discerning in social settings and identify the people plotting against them. Horses are also likely to hear bad news during the course of the year. Not to worry however, for it will not be a direct concern to them. <br /><br />The Horse’s career life will be an eventful and demanding one. The Horse’s horoscope for 2016 foretells that they will need to keep in check their hyperactivity and, instead, put it to good use to assure success in future years. There will be many self-development opportunities available in 2016. Horses that are motivated to climb the ladder of success may do so with good hard work and determination. The horses should also broaden their skills and, by giving 100% to their duties, validate their worth in the office. <br /><br />2016 will see a lot of senior staff retiring and this will as well provide the ambitious Horse an ample opportunity to demonstrate their ability and land those coveted positions before they are snatched or outsourced. <br /><br />In the Year of the Monkey the Horse will be introduced to lot of new people who could be beneficial connections in the future. The horse can look forward to a good rapport with their colleagues in the workplace; even those who are newly employed can quickly establish rapport with others with their outgoing nature and interest in what’s going on around them. <br /><br />Horses who feel that their talents will be better suited elsewhere and those unemployed looking for work in general should apply for a wide array of positions as initiatives are rewarded in the year of the Monkey. This will require the Horse searching for openings on a daily basis. <br /><br />There is a real possibility of transfer to another locale within the workforce this year. If this happens, the Horse should first consult family members and professionals before committing to such a big step. <br /><br />The Horses’ finances bode well with the possibility of additional income this year. Even so, as wealth luck is unstable in 2016, the Horse needs to exercise caution with their spending and conserve their resources, or the additional income will be as quickly depleted on many unnecessary and frivolous items. When considering a big purchase, the Horse should do their homework first and shun impulse buying. They should carefully examine the terms and conditions and read the fine print or they could find themselves entering into an agreement with unfair consequences. If in doubt, have a friend or family member study it or seek professional advice. <br /><br />Personal interests and hobbies, especially where recreational pursuits are concerned, can play an important role in the Horse’s life during the year of the Monkey. Why not explore new activities and hobbies, as this will be amply rewarded in a Monkey year? <br /><br />The Horse’s home life will be quite active this year and there will be a lot of Horses taking on big projects around the home in the way of renovations or re-designing. These plans will require many changes, hard work and some ingenuity on the part of the Horse, but it will be well worth it in the end. The Horse will enjoy harmonious relationship with the family members this year provided they all communicate well on concerns, problems and plans. The Horse wishing to change residence or purchasing a new home can do rather well this year, with the proviso that they seek professional advice in all legal matters. <br /><br />Horses who are single and those who have recently fallen in love are in for an exciting and hopeful time. Love, dating and marriage are very high on the cards. Singles need to be patient though and for those who are attached the support of their partner will be an invaluable asset in getting through this year. Those Horses that have ended a relationship recently and are feeling particularly dismayed should be comforted with knowledge that 2016 will still be a more positive year. <br /><br />Overall 2016 will be a rewarding year for the Horse. Like the Snake, the Horse also holds the Fire element as a primary element. The general atmosphere of 2016 is still very beneficial to the Horse. They will have ample gains and success in business; enjoy great liaisons and be triumphant in all their endeavors. <br /><br />They should maintain a balanced lifestyle however in order to keep their health in check. Those Horses who are dormant for the majority of the day, such as those who are employed in an office, must partake in regular exercises to foster good health. <br /><br />Horses are in affinity with the Sheep/Goat. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Sheep/Goat or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Goat with them at all times. <br /><br /> Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i> 2016 Dragon's Predictions for the Goat/Sheep</i></span></h3>
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<b><i><br /><br />Born: 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 4, 12 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Green, Blue, Black <br /><br />The Year of the Monkey which starts on the 8th February 2016 will be a good one for the Goat with lots to do and see. People born under the sign of the Sheep/Goat will be financially and emotionally stable, with far better luck than last year. Goats are poised to improve their reputation and receive rewards and promotions this year. They actually have strong windfall and romance luck in 2016. Big projects will come the Sheep/Goat’s way and so will significant increase in earnings and profits, as their confidence is boosted from this year onwards. Long term investments should be considered and singles will have plenty of choices. The Goat should be careful however, and not rush head-long into projects or take unwarranted risks with certain aspects of their life, which could later on cause them problems. They should take particular care with their health and safety as they could have accidents and illnesses. <br /><br />The Goats work life will be an active and stimulating one, with lots of changes taking place because of new positions opening up as senior members leave the company in 2016. Many motivated Goats will be able put their innate ability and strengths to good use early on in the year to ensure future advancements while staying on with their current employer. Now is the time for any Goats who feel stagnated by their current position and those looking for work in general to consider the possibility of retraining and learning new skills. Those that are employed should show interest in new work posts opening up with the assurance that it will go very well for them and that it can also lead to gainful career advances in future years. <br /><br />The Goat’s relations with others will require particular care and attention this year. Clear communication is a must if they wish to avoid consistent disagreements with others. Goats should strive to maintain frequent bouts of openness and higher sensitivity to others’ feelings then offer help and advice accordingly. If offered advice they should make time to hear what others have to say as this could work well in their favor this year. <br /><br />The Goat's home life will also require good communication with the family members. There will be changes happening in and around the house this year, including daily household chores that would require everyone’s ready cooperation. When dealing with the handling of these projects, the Goat should remember that in Monkey years plans can unexpectedly change and different options can suddenly become available at the last moment. It’s best therefore to undertake each project one at a time to avoid wasting effort, time and money. <br /><br />The Goat's social life will be interesting and joyful, with the Monkey years favoring joint activities in 2016. Plenty of good times are in store as long as Goat remembers to be mindful of other's feelings and needs. <br /><br />Another area of the Goats life that warrants attention in 2016 is their lifestyle. The Goat should consider their personal well-being and adapt a healthier routine with nutrition, exercise or sports. But there will be a lot of demands on their time this year and they need to manage it well in order to make sure that they do not miss out on furthering their own personal interests and enjoyment. <br /><br />Despite the windfall of money, the Goat must manage their finances well this year, as there will be a lot of demands on their spending with a great many expenditures, projects for home improvements, social events, hobbies and more. They should also not be remiss in carefully scrutinizing contracts, lease agreements and do the paperwork well before signing or finalizing any transactions to avoid financial problems down the line. <br /><br />Overall, things will go exceptionally well for the Goat this year with many areas providing fulfillment and joy for their life and only a small fraction warrants care. More autonomous and, above all, more selective in their choices, whether sentimental or professional, Goats should emerge successful from most bad situations they face during 2016 and spend a wonderful year. For singles it isn't time yet to be thinking about moving into a serious relationship. Goats in couples are at risk of experiencing passing tensions with their partner, but nothing serious. <br /><br />Goat/ Sheep are in affinity with the Horse. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Horse or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Horse with them at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini.</i></b></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i> 2016 Dragon's Predictions for the Monkey</i></span></h3>
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<b><i><br />Born: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 1, 6 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Blue, Black, Red, Orange <br /><br />The Monkey year begins on the 8th February 2016. Monkeys who have been feeling rather dissatisfied with their progress in recent years can rest assured that things will soon be turning around for them. In this Year of the Red Fire Monkey, which favors new business ventures and changing of career, everything the Monkey has dreamt of can be achieved, making this a fantastic year for them. If any Monkeys are thinking of marriage, then this is the right time for them to tie the knot. <br /><br />The year in general bodes well for the people born under the sign of the Monkey, only there is one hitch, the existence of few unlucky stars that may put a damper on things. It is a good idea for the Monkey therefore, to exercise caution with their finances and not to make serious investments. Monkeys wishing to try their luck during the year should think twice and properly assess the situation first. Results from their ventures could bring Monkeys both success and failures. But not to worry! Monkeys are always masterful tacticians in avoiding conflict and strife and with their endurance and patience they will receive invigorating energies in 2016. <br /><br />During 2016, political tensions are robust as conservative governments and financial markets encounter harder times. People and money are moving around the planet at an even faster rate, and only the most resourceful and risk-taking individuals amongst the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac are promised great success in 2016. This said; there will be some highly motivated Monkeys who will decide on starting their own business this year. They will be wise to accept professional advice and spend time scrutinizing paperwork and contracts before signing anything. Monkeys should also make sure to get associated with the right business partners, as wayward energies also mean risks of failure. Monkeys that are quick witted, focused, employ the right people and have a trustworthy partner, might last through the takeoff of the business. They will also get all the support from family and friends and fulfill their wildest ambitions. The Monkey should be open to the criticism and advice of others however, as this can work in their favor. The Monkey should also employ good communication skills for to go it alone could make the Monkey feel isolated and unproductive. <br /><br />The Year of the Fire Monkey is also the right time for families and couples to reconsider their relationships and break from the routine. 2016 is not for habitual practices and negative energies are quickly repelled. This fire Monkey fosters vitality and innovation to both business and personal relationships The Monkeys in the employ of others can see a lot of opportunities in their job and there will be many Monkeys who have been long overdue for a promotion that of which will come true this year. Some Monkeys may be given the offer to move to another branch this year and if they feel this is of interest to them, they should consider it, as a new location could help them advance quickly in the work place. Motivated Monkeys will have ample opportunities to develop their skills and advance in their career. Those who feel that this is a year for change in the workplace and feel their talents would be put to better use elsewhere and also those who are looking for new work should have no trouble securing a good job this year <br /><br />The progress at work will have great financial benefits and there will be some Monkeys who use their personal skills to further earnings. Moreover, an unexpected fortune should befall the Monkey that will set them comfortably off in life. The best months for them to make their fortune will be the second and twelfth Chinese lunar months, during which they should make full use of their time to invest and cash in. Armed with additional income, the Monkey can now negotiate a good price for some purchases that they have been putting off for a while. They should avoid gambling, speculating, and collecting illegal or greedy gains however, or they will lose everything they have, especially in the third Chinese lunar month. They should also guard against poverty due to greed. This is a good year for the Monkey to set aside some money for the future as the Monkey year’s influence can help them get the ball rolling. Also, Monkeys should resist showing off their wealth or they will be persecuted by others. <br /><br />2016 is a great year full of optimism, cheerfulness and happy family gatherings. The Monkey’s social life will be particularly active one with great demands being placed on their time; they should therefore, reserve some free time to pursue personal interests and hobbies that will develop at a satisfactory rate this year. They must control their temper so as not to scare off any potential mate and, if in a relationship already, put in an extra effort to strengthen the bond. <br /><br />Single Monkeys should be able to find a partner if they are seeking one; they may find that this could happen in the most unexpected place. Any Monkeys who have recently suffered heartbreak have a strong chance of finding someone this year. The Monkey’s close relationship star will be rather elusive in 2016; the more they long for a mate, the harder it will be for them to attain it. They may encounter romantic rapport if it happens naturally, especially in the seventh and twelfth Chinese lunar months. They will have a happy ending if they seize the right opportunities. This may be a perfect time to test the Monkey’s organization and communicative skills as some friends may suddenly behave more bitter and jealous, leaving the Monkey disappointed and disengaged. <br /><br />This year the Monkey may be faced with a close friend needing assistance; this is a great opportunity for the Monkey to utilize their innate wisdom and provide good, sound advice with their understanding nature. Similarly, when need arises and they are unsure of something, the Monkey should seek help and advice from others, as this will help solve a lot of problems this year. <br /><br />The Monkeys home life will also see a great deal of activity with many Monkeys looking to achieve some ambitious projects around the household although they will need to apply good communicational skills for the smooth transition of their plans. Travel is also a good activity for the Monkey this year and any Monkeys who have been looking to take a trip somewhere in particular should try to achieve this if possible. Remember, early planning can help the Monkey to achieve a lot. <br /><br />Monkeys should rest more, take frequent naps and pay close attention to their health. They can adopt a moderate exercise programme alongside a healthier diet /nutrition plan. Great attention should also be paid to food safety to avoid illness. This is a year of risks, especially traffic accidents. They should keep in mind traffic safety as they go about their daily routine, and never take risks. Monkeys will suffer from minor illnesses; however, they will not come to much harm if they are careful. If they take their medicine, the symptoms will lessen. The Monkey needs to take care of their health, especially their nervous system. The outlook for Monkey’s health may be worse in the fourth and tenth Chinese lunar months <br /><br />Overall, 2016 will be an exciting and eventful year for the Monkey with lots to see and do. Some care and caution is warranted when dealing with finances and health concerns. <br /><br />Monkeys are in affinity with the Snake. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Snake or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Snake with them at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i>2016 Dragon's Predictions for the Rooster</i></span></h3>
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<b><i><br /><br />Born: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 2, 6 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Grey, Brown, Red, Orange <br /><br />The year of the Fire Monkey begins on the 8th February 2016. People born under the sign of the Rooster have much improved luck compared to last year. But it will still be a somewhat demanding year with certain areas requiring care. <br /><br />The Rooster likes to plan ahead and be in the know about of what is going on around them. Many changes this year could make them uneasy. The Rooster should realize that not all transformations are bad however; some can pave the way to promising opportunities and good things to come. <br /><br /> Similarly, many happenings in 2016 may seem gloomy to the Rooster although they can still turn things around and use it to their advantage. There will be certain modifications taking place at Rooster’s work place as the year progresses, things like new staff and new procedures; the Rooster will need to adapt to these changes at an early stage in order to keep up with new developments. <br /><br />The Rooster should concentrate on the task at hand this year and make sure to not lose sight of the main goal. If offered the chance to train for a new position, the Rooster should seize this opportunity as this could bring amazing results in future years. <br /><br />It is a good time to excel in academics or career. Roosters who are feeling unfulfilled in their present position and those looking for new employment will have many opportunities available to them in 2016. They should utilize their contacts by informing them of their job search, as well as, keep an eye on any openings in different fields in their company or elsewhere. They should not discount retraining for the new position that could prove invaluable down the line. <br /><br />The first few months of the Year of the Monkey will be an extremely auspicious time for the Rooster’s finances; nevertheless, the Rooster should consider setting up a budget in anticipation of a rainy day. Roosters will be glad to have set aside some money earlier on with many unexpected expenditures and general purchases cropping up later on in the year. For some Roosters 2016 will be a year of great agitation hidden under a mask of perfect happiness. Finances issues could even jeopardize or question the course of their career. Also, when entering contract or signing paperwork, the Rooster should carefully read through terms and conditions and make certain that they fully understand what they are signing. Professional advice can help the Rooster with good financial decisions. <br /><br />Fortunately, there is no health threat for the Rooster sign this year. The Rooster needs to take time to relax however, and reserve some time to enjoy the things that make them fulfilled. It is always a good habit to get some exercise and adopt a healthier diet, if the Rooster has not done so already, as this will prove to be a great investment in their future well-being. Moreover, the Rooster needs to reserve some time for fun activities or a plan a trip with the family this year. By taking better care and preserving their energies, Roosters can reap full benefits of their efforts. <br /><br />At any rate, the Rooster’s first priority during 2016 should be to care for the well-being of their family and home. The Monkey year being predictably busy, there is risk of the Rooster neglecting their home life without even realising it. The Rooster will need to practise good communicational skills with other family members this year especially when unexpected expenditures due to broken equipment or other household repairs arise. To avoid undue stress, the Rooster should check over the home and make sure everything is as it should be and take care to servicing overdue items. Unexpected repairs and purchases can lead to nice upgrades this year. <br /><br /> During the 2016 year when facing difficulties, Roosters must refrain, as much as possible, from giving in to anger. It might be a good idea to take the help of a few alternative healing techniques to reduce the stress. Also, whenever the Rooster gets into an argument with close family member they should rely on their own observations rather than listening to advice from the outside. <br /><br />The Rooster’s social life meanwhile will bring plenty of joy to their life and it can be a welcome break from the stresses of the year. There will be opportunities for the Rooster to meet new people and form good friendships as the year goes on. Single Roosters with a partner in mind will have success; they could find love through a contact of theirs. <br /><br />Roosters are in affinity with the Dragon. For their protection, Roosters should have a key chain pendant of a Dragon or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Dragon with them at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: red;"><i>2016 Dragon's Predictions for the Dog</i></span> </span></h3>
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<b><i><br />Born: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 4 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Green <br /><br />The year of the Fire Monkey begins on the 8th February 2016. People born under the sign of the Dog will have a challenging but not altogether bad time this year. Dogs need to be cautious in all matters, particularly in wealth and business. They should trust their natural instincts so as to put this to good use in the year of the Monkey. Remember- if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. <br /><br />The Dog’s horoscope in 2016 foretells that they will have a chance to live life the way they want it this year. Dogs may find themselves too preoccupied with other issues to have much time for romance; however, they need to put in a little extra effort to liven up the existing relationship. Moreover, they should not let fights with their spouse spoil their marriage. <br /><br />The Dog’s perseverance and dedication will be the secret to their success. Dogs should not discount potential opportunities if they are single. Any Dogs who have recently suffered sorrow or heartbreak should be encouraged in knowing that the Monkey year furthers change, motivation and a positive mood. Indeed, 2016 could be a promising year for the Dog provided they stay motivated. <br /><br />In 2016 the Dogs that smartly utilize their skills and talents will receive appropriate recognition from their peers. Dogs that are well established in their current positions should therefore seize all opportunities to be involved in different areas and to gain promotions or assume larger responsibilities in their work place. One proviso, all the Dog’s career decisions will have to be made with a calm and clear mind. The Dog who is established in a large company could be offered a transfer to another branch this year. They should welcome the recommendation; but they should first discuss this with close family members to avoid potential problems. <br /><br />Any Dogs who wants a change and feel that they would be better suited in another company or ones seeking new employment should find that Monkey years favour self-development. Once they set the wheel in motion and begin making enquiries many good positions could soon be well within their reach. Employment agencies can also be very beneficial to the Dog this year; they should sign up and stay up to date with progress. The Dog would be wise to dedicate some time to networking as this could lead to recommendations and recognition in their work. <br /><br />Mostly, 2016 is a time of instability regarding the life of the Dog. They are usually more at ease in a home environment. Normally happy and comfortable in their job, Dogs don't like to stray too far from their home. But this year is special and, following good news, they shall encounter new and joyful adventures outside of their perimeter. One stipulation is required; that they make sure they monitor their savings and expenses. <br /><br /> Indeed, the Dog’s finances will require some care as 2016 is poised to be an expensive year for them. A Dog who decides to relocate or finalise the stages of moving into a new home in the year of the Monkey will have to budget carefully. Even for those that are staying put there will be requirements for upgrades and repairs to the home which could use a lot of funds. These expenditures and upgrades will go smoothly if they talk things over first with other household members. The Dog’s opinion and help will be valued by others this year and they can enjoy a good rapport in the home. The Dog will delight in all the support in different areas of their life they will receive from family, friends and co-workers. <br /><br />The Dog will need to give some consideration to their personal well-being this year and should consider dedicating some time to an exercise programme and healthier eating. If the Dog is lacking motivation or energy they will have to take time out to recharge their batteries, as there is a risk of overworking and suffering minor illnesses in the year of the Monkey. Personal interests and hobbies are typically a vital part of the Dog’s life and can bring a lot of joy and relaxation. The Dog should allocate some time to pursuing these and other new interests as it can excel to levels higher than expected in the year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Travel is also looking to be very promising for the Dog this year and they should set aside some money for this. The Dog will still be able to enjoy their money and can make some good purchases when they shop around for a better price. <br /><br />Dogs are sociable in nature and like to frequently spend time with close circle of friends. They should be open to the idea of meeting new people, however, as some new acquaintances could end up becoming quite significant later on in the year. Furthermore, any Dogs who have suffered recent upset, could find their spirits uplifted through interaction with fresh contacts, especially single Dogs. <br /><br />Overall, 2016 is looking to be a productive and encouraging year for the Dog with some good memories in store. Even though things might not really live up to their expectations, Dogs find consolation by spending quality time with new and influential friends, or enjoying family gatherings during the week-ends. <br /><br />Dogs are in affinity with the Rabbit. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Rabbit or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Rabbit with them at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i>2016 Dragon's Predictions for the Pig</i></span></h3>
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<b><i><br />Born: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007 <br /><br />Lucky Numbers: 4 <br /><br />Lucky Colours: Green <br /><br />The year of the Monkey began on the 8th February 2016. People born under the sign of the pig have a slight improvement in luck from the previous year. Wealth luck is stable, life and personal hobbies and interests are favorable. <br /><br />The Pig is very clear about their goals and provided they work hard and face the challenges in their life with optimism and independence, they should succeed in all their endeavours. There are a few other requirements to the Pig’s success in 2016: the Pig should prioritize their personal interests rather than just rushing in to it. The Pig may also encounter delays throughout the year of the Monkey and they will need to be able to work around any interruptions in order to achieve their goals. The Pig is quick-witted and will be able to adapt to new situations although the year of the Monkey will still be a year of care. <br /><br />The Pig’s work life can see a lot of activity, new staff and lot of changes in the workplace in 2016. Fresh routines and all these modifications can provide the Pig with many prospects. Those Pigs that are looking to advance in their career should stay alert for the internal jobs, seize the initiative and the opportunity to take on greater responsibilities and move to a new area of their work if need be. Pigs who are looking to change careers, as well as those looking for new employment in general should utilize employment agencies and websites. <br /><br />The Pig runs the risk of being disappointed by others during the year of the Monkey and there may be times when they forget that others are not as motivated as they are, which can, in turn, be a downer. The Pig will still get a lot of support from colleagues during the year of the Monkey although they need to accept that not everyone is as hard working. <br /><br />The Pig will have a good financial year and will want to make the most of their money by attending events, buying new equipment and making upgrades in their home and other areas of their life, all of which will require fastidious planning. Periodically in 2016 some unexpected expenditures may crop up but the Pig’s financial proficiency will alleviate lot of the stresses. The Pig should have no trouble in obtaining the necessary funding for all these projects; nevertheless, some caution and discretion is warranted and they need to shop around before making any commitment as they could save a good sum and avoid disappointment later on if they find it at cheaper price. As good as their finances are this is not the time for the Pig to make fast business transactions or obtain purchases in haste. <br /><br />The year of the Monkey will be a somewhat demanding time for the Pig and they will need to make sure that this does not adversely affect their home life. Leisure activities will be beneficial for the Pig this year and they should utilize their talents and skills and dedicate some time to their personal hobbies. Benefiting from the Monkey year’s influence, this will bring lots of joy and relaxation to the Pig, furthering their interests to much higher levels. In addition, these hobbies will bring about opportunities to meet likeminded people, enlarging their circle of friends. However it’s imperative that the Pig allocate equal leisure time to spend with their family or they could find problems arising if they are too preoccupied with their personal interests. More often than usual necessary repairs and replacements in and around the home could be the basis for all that tension. Pigs need to be mindful therefore of this fact and not take it out on other members of the household. Good communication with other members of their family should help. Also, consider taking a trip if finances and time permits it, as travel is highly favoured in Monkey years. <br /><br /> Single Pigs can have a lot of opportunities to find a love which can become significant as the year progresses. They may be involved in a highly passionate and sexually stimulating relationship. When in love, the Pig will look at the year of the Monkey In a completely different way. Female Pigs can get an occasional windfall in the romance department due to a lucky star, but it is imperative they control their emotions. Relationship entanglements could be a sticking point however, and the Pigs should shun them to avoid unwarranted trouble. <br /><br />The Pig that is in a dissatisfactory relationship must persevere and opt for comfort and security rather than consider a break-up; in the end they will be rewarded for their courage and loyalty. Those that are not in a relationship should be warned that most new potential mates are unsuitable this year. <br /><br />Overall, this will be a demanding year for the Pig although they should find that the stresses and struggles of the year are not as bad as it could be and can even be minimized with the right attitude. <br /><br />Pigs are in affinity with the Tiger. For their protection, they should have a key chain pendant of a Tiger or a Gold plated Chinese Animal protection Talisman of a Tiger with you at all times. <br /><br />Have a fantastic year of the Monkey. <br /><br />Fini</i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Have A Healthy, Happy and Prosperous New Year</span></i></b></h2>
Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-69779976787678352222016-02-09T01:57:00.002-05:002021-04-05T03:11:02.135-04:00Dragon’s General Predictions for the Year of the Monkey- 2016<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Dragon’s General Predictions for the Year of the Monkey- 2016</span></i></b></h2>
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<b><i>The Chinese New Year of the Fire Monkey began on February 8, 2016, on the second New Moon after the Solstice. The Monkey is the 9th animal in the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. Predictions for the year are made in accordance with the characteristics of the animal that rules the year. For instance, the main attributes of the Monkey are intelligence, wit and inventiveness. Monkeys have irrepressible curiosity and creative energy; they are certainly playful and youthful in nature with minds free from any inhibitions and guilt. They are also problem solvers, working within a group while simultaneously demonstrating an independent streak associated with all achievers. Being a sly and opportunistic tactician, they tend to be untrustworthy. Though worshiped to some extent by the Buddhists, the Monkey is generally regarded as the emblem of trickery: for the youthfulness of the Monkey conceals the unscrupulous adolescent, and the eccentric nature can suddenly turn into unlawfulness. Henceforth, this year will reward individual effort and those who place their trust in the group or collective might face disappointment.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br /> From a Feng Shui point of view, the Fire Monkey Years have both Metal and Water elements. Metal is linked to gold. Water is associated with the characteristics of wisdom and danger; with this in mind we can safely predict that there will be a certainty of volatility within the financial markets. <br /><br />On the whole 2016 will see a big slide in the world economy. The global economic situation will be dreadful, as lots of companies will go bankrupt. Postponement of crucial financial decisions is therefore recommended. The year will be marked with unpredictable changes and, or, sudden stimulus. Even though the Year of Monkey will be an energetic, optimistic and progressive year with potential growth in real-estate, finances and politics, there will also be unpleasant side effects of uncertainty and the prevalent undercurrent of deceit dogging the year. Be warned that many businesses will apply the shrewdest angle and structure their transactions for the greatest gain. Problems abound, politically, financially, professionally, domestically or emotionally, nothing should be taken for granted. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br /> The Monkey is alert, smart, wily and devious and so outwitting the Monkey will be one way to assure a good return on financial investments. Keep in mind that metal is also connected to the Wind and that implies quick change. The positive and negative characteristics of the Monkey meanwhile translate into “anything is possible” in 2016. <br /><br />Those looking to grow families or resolve questions of the heart shouldn't wait. The Year of the Monkey favors falling in love and is also considered a good year for procreating. Babies born at this time will be regarded as very hardworking and lucky.<br /><br />Some may even profess that there’s little point in being prepared, as the influence of the Monkey puts everything into flux. All the same, careful planning and prudence have always been a good rule of thumb, where possible, when bearing in mind finances, career, and social endeavors this year. Increased communication, humor and wit will, meanwhile, help resolve the stress of these times. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /><br /><br /><br />On the individual level it is best to move forward, make strides, and embrace what may lie ahead. The Year of the Monkey 2016 is a time for risky business, and herein lays the seeds of unplanned success. Run with ideas, embrace the change, be creative and don’t look back. The Year of the Monkey is a particularly auspicious time for new inventions and taking risks. It’s a year where agile, inventive minds, sheer guts and bravado will win out in the end. Only be on the lookout for deceptions. Those who can persevere and outsmart the trickster Monkey will succeed, sure enough, but those who are dull or slow witted, who can’t handle the stress, will go down.<br /><br /> Naturally with so much ambiguity in this year one needs to incorporate some form of regular physical activity (such as workouts, swimming, yoga, water aerobics, dance, martial arts, team sports, tennis or long walks), adopt a sound diet and a healthy lifestyle. After all, the body was designed to move and stress should to be burned off.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Chinese New Year's Day Taboos</span></i></b></h3>
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<b><i><b><i>(Things to avoid on Chinese New Year)</i></b></i></b></div>
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<br />-Avoid using knives and scissors on the first day of the Chinese New Year. Put them away and out of sight. It’s self explanatory really; besides the possibility of accidents that would lead to inauspicious things, it also means cutting your wealth.<br /><br />- No Killing things: Blood is considered an ill omen which will cause misfortunes such as a knife wound, or a bloody disaster.<br /><br />- Do not vacuum or use the broom: If you sweep on this day then your wealth will be swept away too.<br /><br />-Money should not be lent on New Year’s Day, and all debts should be paid prior to New Year’s Eve. If there is someone who owes you money, do not go to his or her home to demand it or you’ll bring misfortune on yourself and your luck will suffer the rest of the year.<br /><br />-An empty rice jar or a depleted supply is considered to be an ill omen.<br /><br />-No Porridge for breakfast; as it is considered poor people’s food, therefore is a bad omen for the start the year.<br /><br />-Hair must not be washed on the first day of the lunar year. In the Chinese language, hair has the same pronunciation and character as 'fa' in facai , which means ’to become wealthy’. Therefore, it would mean, “washing one’s fortune away”.<br /><br />-Avoid washing clothes on the first and second day, because these two days are celebrated as the birthday of Shuishen (the Water God).<br /><br />- Wearing threadbare items can cause more bad luck for the year.<br /><br />- White or black clothes are barred, as these two colours are traditionally associated with mourning.<br /><br />-Do not give gifts of clocks, watches, scissors or pears at New Year’s as they all have a bad meaning.<br /><br />-If possible avoid taking any medicine on the first day of the lunar year, for it means one will need it for the whole year.<br /><br />-A woman may not leave her house; otherwise she will be plagued with bad luck for the entire coming year. A married daughter is not allowed to visit the house of her parents, as this is believed to bring bad luck to the parents, causing economic hardship for the family.<br /><br />- No crying children- The cry of a child is believed to bring bad luck to the family, so parents do their best to keep children as happy as possible.<br /><br />-Having your pocket picked is believed to portend your whole wealth being stolen in the coming year.<br /><br />-Traditionally its best to stay up late on New Year’s Eve to welcome the New Year, and then to make noise and let off firecrackers and fireworks to scare off inauspicious spirits and Nian, the New Year monster.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Some important people born in the Year of the Monkey</span></i></b></h3>
<b><i><br />Leonardo da Vinci, Federico Fellini, Pope John Paul II, Harry S. Truman, Eleanor Roosevelt, John Milton, Paul Gauguin, Lyndon B. Johnson, Nelson Rockefeller, Charles Dickens, Arthur Hailey, Queen Sirkit of Thailand, Amadeo Modigliani, Mick Jagger, Diana Ross, Julio Iglesias, Danny De Vito, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jacques Tati, Salvador Allende, Simone de Beauvoir, Gustav Mahler, Annie Oakley, Charlie Parker, Howard Cosell, Isaac Stern, Macauley Culkin, Aubrey Beardsley,François Truffaut, Elizabeth Taylor,Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Mel Gibson, James Stewart, Omar Sharif, Anouk Aimee, Peter O’Toole, Louis Malle and Little Richard.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Have a Healthy, Happy and Prosperous New Year.</span></i></b></h3>
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<b><i>Note: The next post will be the predictions for all animal horoscopes for the Year of the Monkey, 2016</i></b><b><i><br /><br /> <br /><br />Fini</i></b></div>
Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4734714775627086973.post-72658083905085969642015-07-31T04:56:00.003-04:002021-04-05T03:11:02.143-04:00The Blue Moon Dragon<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"><i>The Blue
Moon Dragon</i></span></span></h2>
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<b><i>Once upon a time on an enchanted island far, far away there
was a mighty Blue Dragon, the last of his kind, who inhabited a majestic
mountain cave. </i></b></div>
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<b><i> Long before he was
born a meteorite crashed into this Planet and devastated the entire island,
causing a massive extinction of many species including the antediluvian Dragon Kingdom. The Dragon Queen, with her gift of
premonition, foresaw this cataclysm. When her warning fell on deaf ears, she arranged
to have both of her precious blue and green eggs stored with the necessary
provisions deep in the caverns of a mighty mountain. No one could have imagined that the scale of
devastation and upheaval would be so vast and far-reaching; hence they all
perished leaving the land barren for many centuries to come. Meanwhile of the
two eggs carefully stored in the depths of the mighty cave only one had
survived to hatch. The blue dragon therefore was born into a lonely existence
and grew up fending for himself. Eventually the land recovered and other
life-forms began to thrive in this rich, pristine environment. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>The blue dragon, now grown larger still, with his giant wings
often soared through the skies in search of food, longing to find evidence of other
dragons. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>During his searches when earthquakes, landslides or other
such catastrophes unearthed the remnants of the ancient Dragon civilization he
discovered vast stores of knowledge that revealed the cosmic secrets of the
universe and the gateway to the many other worlds that lay beyond the mystical
sea surrounding his world. Unfortunately he also came to realize that he was
alone, and would be alone forever, as the Age of Dragons had come to an end. Rage and sorrow took hold of him and the explosive
energy he unleashed very nearly destroyed the island once again. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>He regained his senses just in time. Coming to grips with reality, he settled down
and searched the surviving stores of knowledge, assimilating this vast
information in gradual segments. Meanwhile he’d already learned purely by
accident that close proximity to the sun always helped to regenerate him. Proximity
to the moon pacified his senses and, by the same token, he discovered the joys
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<b><i>As he grew in maturity, possessing more knowledge now, he ventured
through the doorways to other existing worlds. On these many excursions, he
discovered other lands over the mystic seas, realms that were populated by
strange flora and creatures. Further and
further he went searching for adventure or, perhaps, a likely companion. He was innately overcautious and concealed his
presence well. By this time he’d acquired
many mystical powers. Beside that of concealment, he was now able to shape-shift
into other living forms, however large or small. This made him bolder as he integrated into
still stranger circumstances, such as those of the two-legged human
creatures. He mingled among them
learning their complex structures of dialogue, barter, social etiquette and their
varied rules of governance. He found
that, with practice, he could maintain his disguise for longer and longer
periods, but never longer than a span of one night. His concealment was also more
effective at night, for sunshine was too invigorating for him to constrain his
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<b><i>Once at dusk while flying over a well fortified powerful
kingdom a strange sound wafted to his ears and, looking down, he spotted well
manicured lawns and gardens with carefully structured pools and bridges. He’d
never seen so fine a garden and so he swooped silently down and, as soon as his
feet touched a branch, he transformed himself into a songbird. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>It was a fine summer’s twilight with a light breeze that
invited all beings into the outdoors. A
group of people were laughing and chattering, advancing towards the tree he was
perched on. He withdrew to the cover of thicker
foliage to observe unheeded the small entourage now setting up a picnic down
below. The one among them standing to
the side was particularly appealing. For
one thing she had flawless white porcelain skin and was finely dressed. Her
cascading golden hair was carefully managed with brilliant gems that gleamed
like many stars in the full moonlight. She held a bouquet of flowers to her
bosom so fragrant that it wooed his senses. The others, like fluttering butterflies, rallied around her attempting to make her jovial and content. This
somewhat amused the Dragon and he watched their behavior and hers without
tiring of it for the entire length of their gathering. When they prepared to leave he at once made
himself invisible and followed after.
His curiosity led him all the way back to her quarters but, seeing that they
all went to bed, he reluctantly took his leave, flying out the open
window. But at least he knew where this
interesting creature dwelled, and he promised himself to return the next
nightfall. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>At first he was content watching her from afar in disguise but,
bit by bit, he became smitten with her strange but sweet ways. By then he understood more of the ways of
humans and how he might win her affections.
Fortunately, she valued her time alone and often would send her
attendants away on some fool’s errand just to gain some solitary, quiet moments
by herself. Often she managed to sneak away at the conclusion of dinner to
spend a tranquil period in the library. At other times she contrived to spend a
few moments outside among the beds of flowers, leaning her back to a tree in
contemplative repose. It was on one such occasion when the Blue Dragon decided
at long last to approach her. But first he transformed himself into a human
male. He’d seen certain illustrations in poetry books, specific figures that
she expressed some interest in, therefore he fashioned himself into a mixture
of those features she liked best: a youth
of similar age, rather handsome and dressed in fineries. He even picked a name for himself: Blue Moon. He knew enough of propriety not to
manifest in her private quarters for fear of causing fright, so he waited for
an opportunity when she snuck away into the garden to spend time in solitude.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Their first meeting was somewhat awkward and still caused
her a fright. But he soon talked his way out of it and won her confidence with
his charm and wit. In time, during many more clandestine encounters, as they
discovered they had the same zest for life and innocent fondness for adventure,
they grew much more attached to each other.
Of course all during the exchange they’d maintained the strictest
propriety and observed proper decorum, thus nothing untoward or improper
transpired between the two. This platonic love however had grown from bud to
blossom soon possessing both their heart and soul. Eventually when the Blue Dragon revealed his
true form to her, he was delighted to find it made no difference to her. Meanwhile he was now free to share some of
the joys of being a dragon. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Often on her insistence, she was whisked away into the
clouds riding on his back and saw the world as she never could have done
without him. Once, while resting on a
strange high meadow by a spring, he reached forward and gently clasped her hand
and looked questioningly deep into her eyes. No words were necessary, she
simply nodded her assent and from that moment on they were bonded forever. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>With a shy smile he drew a small packet from his robe,
wrapped in a blue cloth that shimmered as if with the light of many stars. When
she opened it she saw it was a figurine of a songbird.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Blue Moon explained its meaning, “It is made from the stones
of the Moon, where I stay when I want to be close to you, and it is shaped like
the songbird I became when I observed you and your attendants in the courtyard
that first evening. Keep it to remind yourself of me, and my eternal love for
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<b><i>“I shall cherish it forever. “ She kissed the bird’s beak then reached
forward to lovingly hold his hand. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Unfortunately all good things must come to an end. One stormy night their closely guarded secret
was discovered by a jealous attendant and, when promptly brought to the
attention of His Majesty, his fury knew no bounds. He had three sons but only one daughter and
now his darling daughter had being sullied by this, this dastardly intruder.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Immediately, a trap was devised to capture this brazen interloper.
When the opportunity struck armed guards
descended on him. The Blue Dragon could have
transformed himself into his true form and incinerated them all, but he was far
too concerned for the Princess’ well being, so he allowed himself be captured
and brought in chains before his Majesty.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>The King was in a murderous mood, and could not be reasoned
with. Despite severe beating and torture
the truth could not be attained, yet a most heinous, ruthless punishment was pronounced
upon the presumed culprit. Badly bruised, bleeding profusely with many
ribs and bones broken (for in this form he was as vulnerable as any human was)
Blue Moon was dragged outside by his chains for the administration of his harsh
punishment. As soon as he was outside of
the audience hall he was able to use his skills and simply vanished into thin air.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>The poor guards unfortunately were made to suffer for days for
their failure. Meanwhile the Princess was confined to new quarters high up in a
tower and this time, placed under close scrutiny. She was assumed to have been put
under an evil spell by the sorcerer Blue Moon, as he had named himself. As a virtual prisoner for well over a year
she was never allowed a moment’s peace in all that time, nor was she left for a
single moment alone. The attending Priests
and palace doctors came to and fro, at first keeping her heavily sedated then
gradually endowing her with small portions of added liberties. She was
eventually allowed to return to her more luxurious former quarters as she pretended
to being cured from the paranormal malady. Despite all their persuasive methods
and ingested medicinal concoctions however, deep within her soul and heart she’d
maintained the seeds of affections for her beloved Blue Moon. At times when things grew unbearable she drew
strength from her memories of times shared with him. This source of happiness, the like of which
she’d never known, was, after all, inexhaustible. So long as she drew breath she knew she could
never forsake him for he, her first true love, was already an inseparable part
of her being. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>
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<b><i>Three nights hence would be the second full moon, also known
as the Blue Moon. Theirs was a
superstitious nation, so many candles were lit and the residual smoke from the
burning of incense imbued with scent crafted to scare away evil, permeated the
air till dawn. Meanwhile, the Priests beat drums and held prayer sessions and sacrifices
to appease the wandering evil spirits of the Blue Moon.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>As soon as dusk fell, confident in their measures to rid the
Palace of the least evil, exhausted from vigorous day’s activities, all
denizens of the Palace and city had fallen into deep slumber peacefully tucked under
warm quilts in their beds. Complete
silence prevailed throughout the Palace and the land.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>At stroke of midnight the Princess suddenly awoke with a
start. She had sensed movement in the
room. True enough there he was, the handsome young man was now turning away
from the window to smile at her. How fortunate that she had left the window ajar.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>“Please do not be frightened?” He approached her hesitantly.
“I’m sorry I’ve disturbed you. “ He bit the corner of his lip to constrain the
bursting emotions of rage and sorrow.
“You’ve endured such hardship on my account…I meant to come earlier,
but…”</i></b></div>
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<b><i>“It is I who should beg your forgiveness.” She interjected
and, eyes brimming with tears, she shook her head in dismay. “They’ve treated
you so abominably. And I, oh I felt so helpless to do anything about it!”</i></b></div>
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<b><i>In truth, she’d done her best to sway them. In the beginning she’d even attempted to enlist
her mother’s by help appealing to her compassion and when that yielded not
result, tried to reason with a father hell bent on revenge. It was all to no
avail. Instead, all her efforts had gained was to further convince His Majesty
of her possession by the evil Blue Moon entity and the necessity of harsher
measures and prolonged incarceration. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>“It grieves me to say this, but I’ve come to bid you
farewell. I will not forget you, ever.” Blue Moon turned to hide the emerging
tears. </i></b><br />
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<b><i>Rushing over she grabbed his arm and in a sobbing voice
pleaded, “Please don’t go. But, if you
must, I want to go with you, wherever that may be!”</i></b></div>
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<b><i>He smiled and, cupping her face, looked deep into her eyes. “I’ve
come to love you so very much. “ He leaned over and gently planted a kiss on
her forehead. “Know this, regardless of
any future outcome; you are now and forever will be my one and only mate.” </i></b></div>
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<b><i>His face grew grim and he nodded. “However, I should have
known there was so little, perhaps no chance at all, for us. I’m sorry; this is
the way it must be for now. “He turned to go, then stopped, and after a
thoughtful pause, drew from his finger a ring. He then took off his shiny blue cloak
and presented both of them to her.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>“One thing I have learned is that there are infinite
possibilities to this universe and that nothing in it can be deemed impossible.
Out of my deep regard and affection for
you, I offer you the freedom to choose. Conceal this ring well and guard our
shared secret. Wear this garment when the
Blue Moon manifests and remember that I love you from afar. If, at the conclusion of your life span, you
still have same affections for me, put on this ring on your forefinger and don
the blue cloak. On that night I give you
my solemn pledge that I will return and from that day hence, we shall be
eternally together.” </i></b></div>
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<b><i>He then transformed into a song-bird and flew out the
window.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Wiping her tears, she folded the garment carefully and
placed it in the drawer of her night table but she sought a more secure location
to hide the ring. As it so happened there was a stone encased in loose mortar in
a dark corner of the room behind some furniture. She’d discovered it when she was a child and
concealed her most prized possessions there. It also contained the moon rock he
had sculpted to resemble a bird. Opening
this niche she placed this prized possession alongside her others. Then, though
overcome with fatigue, when she went back to her bed and laid down, she was too
emotionally overwrought to sleep. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Upon waking the following morning she immediately doubted the
last night’s series of events as well as her brief encounter with the Blue Moon
spirit. Seizing the first available opportunity, she checked the drawer. True
enough there was a strange blue garment folded in there, but it was not
gleaming or as extraordinary as she recalled. Later still she fetched the ring
from its hiding place and carefully examined it; running her fingers absently over
the strange inscription underneath. She
next brought out the moonstone bird and, caressing it, kissed its beak before
placing it back. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>The garment, despite its apparent simplicity, was still
treasured by her. Each Blue moon when everyone retired for the night she would,
without fail, quietly don the blue garment and sit by the window waiting for
her beloved to return. But he never did. As a small consolation she would feel
his presence and warm embrace as she sat while the garment basking under the
moon’s rays brilliantly glistened and came to life with countless dancing stars.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>She was eventually forced to marry a Prince whose kingdom’s alliance
was a political necessity. In time she bore three children. Her life in that
other kingdom seemed surreal as she functioned within the parameters of
acceptable behavior for the wife of a Crown Prince who then became a King. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>During these years, she never wavered once from her initial
promise to her true beloved and wore the blue cloak every Blue Moon. She kept this secret well hidden from all,
even her children. Her warmongering husband the King eventually met his demise
during one of his campaigns. After the elaborate funeral, the widowed Queen was
allowed to return to the Palace in her homeland after her son, the Crown
Prince, took the reins of power.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Eventually old age claimed the dowager Queen but by then her
two other children had been married off to suitable diplomatic advantage and
were living elsewhere. On this night of her final Blue Moon she asked her close
confident to fetch the plain blue cloak for her and help her don it. In tears the
other did as she was bid and, complying with her wishes, left her Majesty
alone. With some difficulty she retrieved
the ring from its hiding place where it had lain for the many years since she
had married. Finally the former Princess, now a dowager Queen, placed it on her
fore-finger. Going over she sat by the window to await her beloved’s return.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>This time he did come. He looked the same as before, not a
day older. Her inhibition soon melted
away when he reached forward and kissed her on the mouth, gently breathing his magical
dragon’s breath into her parted lips. Instantly
she was transformed into her young, vigorous, beautiful self. Better than her
young self though, for she was now an immortal. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>“Are you ready?” He asked lovingly.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>“I’ve been ready all my life.” She smiled back at him.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>He reached his hand to hold hers and muttered a spell. </i></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUa7T5ysI44/VbstfpRA1RI/AAAAAAAA35k/Ax63OEqGUvk/s1600/23-Saying%2Bgoodby_Painting.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUa7T5ysI44/VbstfpRA1RI/AAAAAAAA35k/Ax63OEqGUvk/s640/23-Saying%2Bgoodby_Painting.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Instantly she was transformed into a colorful songbird. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>“I have so much to share, so much to teach you!” He elatedly laughed. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>And then, with Blue Dragon leading the way, they flew
together through the open window.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>The following morning, when the chief attendant entered the Dowager
Queen’s quarters to awaken Her Grace, there was no trace of either Her Majesty
or the blue garment.</i></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xfVzYslgqJA/Vbw4uXRwPeI/AAAAAAAA3-A/1jI5IFLaksU/s1600/24-Happy-together_Painting-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xfVzYslgqJA/Vbw4uXRwPeI/AAAAAAAA3-A/1jI5IFLaksU/s1600/24-Happy-together_Painting-.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><i>The End.</i></b><br />
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Bouquet and Steve Cauncehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03765330500187669322noreply@blogger.com0