Xin Nian Hao / There's A Monkey On My Back

Today begins the 15-day celebration of the Chinese New Year. Well, at least they're beginning the celebration in China today, but because of the time difference, the Chinese New Year actually began yesterday for us here in the U.S. I usually don't pay much attention to this, mainly because I don't use a lunar calendar, but I must admit that this year has caught my attention. Why? Because 2004 is the year of the Monkey! The Green Wooden Monkey, to be more precise.

As we all know, monkeys are pretty funny. (Haven't you always wanted a monkey?) So I'm taking this as a good sign that this year will turn out pretty spankin' good after all, despite the rocky start of the spring semester. It's got potential, kid. Let's hear it for the monkeys!