February 14th starts the Year of the Tiger.

The Tiger is the king of the jungle, admired and respected for its vivid stripes that symbolize the balanced forces of yin and yang.

One of the most dynamic signs in the zodiac, Tigers are a force of nature; they are fearless, dependable, tender, loving and utterly unpredictable.

The Year of the Tiger will bring drama, intensity, change and travel. New inventions and incredible technological advances have a chance of occurring. Things happen quickly and dramatically in a Tiger year. Blink and you could miss the important chance of a lifetime! This is a year in which to be active - seizing opportunities and making the most of our individual talents.

Tiger's are deep thinkers who come out with perfect solutions even in toughest of situations. In business and personal life, their air of charismatic authority commands respect.

Known for their considerate and forgiving nature, they make passionate lovers who open their heart to their loved ones. In family relationships, Tigers are very protective and will strike out at any real (or imagined) threat to home or children. They are emotional, kind and sensitive, but they can also be short-tempered, so best beware of their temper.

Tigers are a competitive group, who are open to taking chances and jumping into new opportunities. Thriving on unpredictability, Tigers are best suited to navigating the many upheavals predicted in the year ahead. Those compatible with the Tiger - the Dragon and the Horse in particular - may find 2010's erratic circumstances inspire them to ever bolder action, and ultimate success. Individuals born under other signs will be affected, depending on their flexibility to change. Those who can keep a steady hand on the helm may be shaken, but undeterred, by the typically thunderous events foreseen in any Tiger year. Remember, though, that whatever the omens portend, you alone are the final master of your fate.

FAMOUS TIGERS

Sheryl Crow, Tom Cruise, Emily Dickinson, Queen Elizabeth II, Jay Leno, Hugh Hefner, William Hurt, Dylan Thomas, Karl Marx, Marilyn Monroe, Marco Polo, Lionel Ritchie and Jon Stewart.

ABOUT THE LUNAR NEW YEAR

New Year is one of the most important holidays in China. It lasts 2 weeks; friends and relatives are visited, parades and festivities abound, houses are decorated, special foods are eaten and there are things to avoid. To bring wealth, happiness and fortune: eat dumplings, melon seeds and candy. Decorate your house with peach blossoms for luck, kumquat plants for prosperity, and chrysanthemum for longevity. Open windows and doors to bring in the good luck of the new year and put up red good luck symbols.

Don't sweep the house though, or you'll sweep out the luck you've carefully accumulated.

Most of all, have a good time and bring in the new year with happiness and celebration.