Year of the Tiger

Holy cow....the new year is upon us. Of course, here in Korea, the lunar new year is celebrated more than the calendar new year. When we were in China, a woman reminded us that Zara (as yet unborn at that point) would be born in the year of the tiger. She even gave us a little stuffed tiger when we purchased a fan from her. I was very excited about that since anyone who knows me knows that I love cats of all shapes and sizes and it seemed appropriate that one of my children should be a tiger. (One should also be a monkey too which means I'll have to have a baby in 2016. Huh. It's weird to think that far ahead.) Anyway, when we were in Insadong last, I picked up this scroll of a tiger to cemmemorate Zara's zodiac sign.

It's now hanging in her nursery.

Being curious, I looked up the common character traits of tigers. These are the parts that most interested me (taken from a variety of sources) :

"Travel is very therapeutic for Year of the Tiger people. They appreciate time spent at home and always try to create an open, bright and somewhat colorful atmosphere, but travel reinvigorates them. They are more likely to choose an action-packed destination for vacation rather than spending a day reading on the beach.

One of the most dynamic signs in the Chinese zodiac, Tigers are by turns fascinating, commanding, and exasperating. They are patient but short-tempered, calm but rebellious, petty but noble, fearsome but affectionate, free spirits but fiercely territorial. What makes them magnetic and commanding figures is the absolute loyalty and affection they show for those they love. With a natural air of authority, Tigers easily earn the respect and admiration of those who love them in return. While domesticated Tigers are quite happy among familiar surroundings, they are just as apt to fly off on an adventure at a moment's notice. Unpredictable and emotional, they can become quite fearless when standing up for themselves or others, and often hold definitive views on how to right the wrongs of society.

The female tiger is a friendly, outgoing sort but with a streak of ambition that is hard to miss. She is a born leader, brave and strong. She enjoys expensive, fashionable clothing and takes pride in her appearance.

People born in the year of the tiger are tolerant, staunch, valiant, and respected. In their middle age, their fate may be uneven, but afterwards will enjoy a bright prospect. Their shortcoming is to project themselves before others. But most women under the tiger sign are intelligent, faithful and virtuous."

I love that last line, especially because at Zara's blessing, David specifically blessed Zara with a keen mind and intellect, integrity, honesty and that she would be a woman of virture and a good example to those around her.

I've said it many times, but I just can't wait to see Zara's personality take form and to watch her grow and learn. I'm so anxious to get to know her. I already know some things about her but there's so much that's still a mystery. But it sure sounds that with a tiger daughter, I'll never be bored.