Happy Lunar New Year

February 16, 2026

Hello Friend!

I'm not a believer in astrology or horoscopes, although I admit to reading a bit just for fun. There are many cultures, however, that lean heavily on the Zodiac for guidance.

For more than twenty years I worked for a gal who was second generation Chinese American. Her parents ran a Chinese restaurant in Detroit for decades, but my boss made her living in IT and stayed there until retirement. During my time on her staff I discovered her celebration of the Lunar New Year and in February I always tried to wish her a "prosperous and lucky" year. I always found it interesting that each cycle was based on a different animal, and carried specific qualities and goals for the next twelve months.

So apparently 2026 is Year of the Fire Horse. According to the article in my inbox, "many see the Year of the Fire Horse as a time to take bold steps, embrace change, and pursue new opportunities." Sounds great to me! And when the email also provided a link to "see your Zodiac animal" I clicked.

The landing page allowed me to enter my birthdate right down to the year, only to proudly display that I was born in the year of the Pig. What??? Aw, c'mon. That doesn't sound inspiring at all. But then I read on. According to Chinese astrology, "Pig is cool-headed and capable in any situation, detailed-oriented, intelligent, free-spirited, and a little too generous. They’re passionate and enthusiastic, well-liked by friends who’ll be there for Pig unconditionally because Pig was there for them."

All right then, I can go with that. I may not be embracing the Chinese Zodiac any time soon, but I can certainly aim for a few of those piggy qualities. Even the humble pig can aim for great things.

(But do NOT expect me to buy the t-shirt. Good grief.)