| The Chinese calendar -which existed there already since around 2000 BC- was adopted by Japan from around the 6th century AD, together with Buddhism.
The Zodiac has an influence on the character of mankind. Each of the 12 ‘animals’ has specific characteristics. Dogs are proud yet good natured. They can listen, are loyal, sincere and watchful. Thus persons born under the zodiac sign of the dog stand for friendship, faithfulness and devotion. They are said to be sincere, friendly, discreet and trustworthy, however they can also be very conservative, often also eccentric, obstinate and egoistical. During the last century, years of the dog were in 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982 and 1994. In each 60 year cycle, the 12 zodiac animals are repeated 5 times, representing 5 elements Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Of course it is not that simple; 60 is only the most common denominator of 10 x 12, the ten being the 5 elements but in order to make it ten, the Japanese have adopted a big (elder) brother and younger brother of each of the five stated elements. In all eastern languages, big brother and younger brother is one noun each, and not formed by a noun (brother) plus an adjective (younger o rbig [elder]) like in western languages. Actually, the year of the fire dog starts on Jan. 29, 2006 and lasts till Febr. 17, 2007 As the 11th animal in the Eastern zodiac, the dog indicates the hours between 7 pm and 9 pm. Best wishes to all for a great Year of the Dog! |
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Both Uschi and Willi wish you a wonderful winter season with lots of fun, happiness, good health and some great relaxation or a vacation with friends and/or family. If anyone is close to Nevis, let us know – we can come to St. Kitts to meet your ship and see the sights there with you, or if you have time, come spend time with us in our home in Nevis.
By the way, if you would like to read the contents of all the pages in smaller or bigger characters, it is very simple: go to View, Text size and choose your preferred size. That is all it takes – try it!