2012 The Year of the Water Dragon January 13, 2012 17:20

Happy New Year -- again! January 23rd marks the start of the Lunar New Year as well as the Year of the Dragon (specifically the Water Dragon). This has always been one of my favorite holidays of the year as it always brings back fond childhood memories of fresh cut flowers at home, lucky red envelopes filled with cash, big family dinners, and vibrant festivals with lion dancing and firecrackers. My cultural heritage has always been a great source of inspiration for me. The very first card line I launched when I started Wanart featured my Zodiac Zoo designs which was a simpler, more stylized version of the zodiac animals and they are still one of my best-selling today. The Dragon is the fifth sign of the Chinese Zodiac, which consists of 12 animal signs that include the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Snake, Horse, Sheep (or Goat), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Apparently, everything is magnified in a Dragon year, there will be spectacular successes as well as crash-and-burn failures. Also, as water does not have a definite shape and it represents flow, movement, and fluidity, this will be a year of changes, adjustments, new directions, and unexpected turn of events. This is the year to try new things but be sure to tread carefully and prepare for the unexpected! According to Chinese tradition, a person’s birth sign has a profound influence on personality and destiny. For those expecting little Dragon babies, those born under this sign are said to be driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. While Dragons frequently help others, rarely will they ask for help. They are very strong-willed and have tempers that can flare fast. Because Dragons prefer leading to being led, they have the potential for accomplishing many great things. For that perfect Year of the Dragon new baby gift - be sure to check out our Dragon onesies and onesie/bib sets. May the Year of the Dragon bring good fortune to you all! Wishing you all the happiest of New Years! xo joyce