Gung Hey Fat Choi!

Year of the Rat
Originally uploaded by Kjunstorm

Yesterday marked the beginning of the Year of the Rat and the accompanying photo is a Creative Commons licensed shot of floral decorations for the occasion in Vegas.

In our house, we have a rooster (me), a monkey (Hubby) and a snake (kiddo), but no rats.... which is just as well because I am not a fan of rodents. ;)

If you are in Victoria, there are several events planned around Chinese New Year but the biggest will be the official Celebration coordinated by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association marking not only the new year but also the 150th anniversary of Victoria's Chinatown.

If you can't get to a Chinese New Year celebration where you are but still want to do something "rat-themed" this weekend, I do recommend the movie Ratatouille which has been nominated for 5 Oscars this year, including Best Animated Feature. Despite having a rat who can cook as the central character the movie has a heart -- typical of everything else Brad Bird has done -- and is suitable for all ages.

Feeling crafty? How about making some catnip "rats" using my free pattern.

If you'd rather read, how about tracking down a copy of Flowers for Algernon (I know it's about a mouse, not a rat, but it's still worth reading).

However you celebrate, I wish you health, wealth and happiness in the coming year.