The Dragon

The Chinese dragon (spelled Long, Loong or Lung in transliteration), is a mythical Chinese creature that also appears in other East Asian cultures, and is also sometimes called the Oriental (or Eastern) dragon.

The dragon is also the embodiment of the concept of yang (male) and associated with the weather as the bringer of rain and water in general. Its female counterpart is the Chinese phoenix.

The dragon as mythical creature

From its origins as totems or the stylized depiction of natural creatures, the Chinese dragon evolved to become a mythical animal. By the Han Dynasty, 206 BC - AD 220, the scholar Wang Fu recorded the anatomy of the Chinese dragon in extensive detail. The dragon's appearance is described as having the trunk of a snake; the scales of a carp ; the tail of a whale; the antlers of a stag; the face of a camel; the talons of eagles; the ears of a bull; the feet of a tiger and the eyes of a (dragon)lobster.

Chinese dragons are physically concise. Of the 117 scales, 81 are of the yang essence (positive) while 36 are of the yin essence (negative). This malevolent influence accounts for their destructive and aggressive side. Just as water destroys, so can the dragons in the form of floods, tidal waves and storms. Some of the worst floods were believed to have been the result of a mortal upsetting a dragon.

Many pictures of oriental dragons show a flaming pearl under their chin. The pearl is associated with wealth, good luck, and prosperity.

Chinese dragons are occasionally depicted with bat-like wings growing out of the front limbs, but most do not have wings, though oddly enough, they are still capable of taking flight.



Dragon toes

The Chinese dragons have five toes on each foot, Indonesian or Korean dragons have four, and the Japanese dragons have three. To explain this phenomenon, Chinese legend states that all Imperial dragons originated in China, and the further away from China, a dragon went the fewer toes it had. Dragons only exist in China, Korea, Indonesia, and Japan because if they traveled further they would have no toes to continue. The Japanese legend has a story similar to the Chinese one, namely that dragons originated in Japan, and the further they traveled the more toes they grew and as a result, if they went too far they would have too many toes to continue to walk properly.

Number nine

The number nine is considered lucky in China and Chinese dragons are frequently connected with it. For example, a Chinese dragon is normally described in terms of nine attributes and usually has 117 scales - 81 (9x9) male and 36 (9x4) female.

This is also why there are nine forms of the dragon and the dragon has nine children (see Classical depictions above). The "Nine Dragon Wall" is a screen wall with images of nine different dragons, and is found in imperial palaces and gardens. As nine was considered the number of the emperor, only the most senior officials were allowed to wear nine dragons on their robes - and then only with the robe completely covered with surcoats. Lower-ranking officials had eight or five dragons on their robes, again covered with surcoats; even the emperor himself wore his dragon robe with one of its nine dragons hidden from view.

There are a number of places in China called "Nine Dragons", the most famous being Kowloon (in Cantonese) in Hong Kong. The part of the Mekong in Vietnam is known as Cửu Long, with the same meaning.



The Dragon personality The Dragon is a creature of myth and legend. A symbol of good fortune and sign of intense power, the Oriental Dragon is regarded as a divine beast - the reverse of the malicious monster that Westerners felt necessary to find and slay. In Eastern philosophy, the Dragon is said to be a deliverer of good fortune and a master of authority. Therefore, those people born in Dragon years are to be honored and respected.

Years of the Dragon

Fifth in the cycle, Dragon Years follow the Rabbit and recur every twelfth year. The Chinese New Year does not fall on a specific date, so it is essential to check the calendar to find the exact date on which each Dragon Year actually begins

1904 * 1916 * 1928 * 1940 * 1952 * 1964 * 1976 * 1988 * 2000

THE SIGN OF THE DRAGON

The Dragon is the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac. In China, dragons are associated with strength, health, harmony, and good luck; they are placed above doors or on the tops of roofs to banish demons and evil spirits. Within Chinese cultures, more babies are born in Dragon years than in any other animal years.

The key to the Dragon personality is that Dragons are the free spirits of the Zodiac. Conformation is a Dragon's curse. Rules and regulations are made for other people. Restrictions blow out the creative spark that is ready to flame into life. Dragons must be free and uninhibited. The Dragon is a beautiful creature, colorful and flamboyant. An extroverted bundle of energy, gifted and utterly irrepressible, everything Dragons do is on a grand scale - big ideas, ornate gestures, extreme ambitions. However, this behavior is natural and isn't meant for show. Because they are confident, fearless in the face of challenge, they are almost inevitably successful. Dragons usually make it to the top. However, Dragon people be aware of their natures. Too much enthusiasm can leave them tired and unfulfilled. Even though they are willing to aid when necessary, their pride can often impede them from accepting the same kind of help from others. Dragons' generous personalities give them the ability to attract friends, but they can be rather solitary people at heart. A Dragon's self-sufficiency can mean that he or she has no need for close bonds with other people.



DRAGON FACTS:

People born in the Year of the Dragon share certain characteristics. The Dragon sign is an abbreviated way of characterizing that individual's personality. Following are features associated with the sign of the Dragon.

Fifth in order, Chinese name-LONG, sign of luck
Hour-7am-8:59 a.m. Month-April
Western Counterpart-Aries

CHARACTERISTICS

* Innovative
* Enterprising
* Flexible
* Self-assured
* Brave
* Passionate
* Conceited
* Tactless
* Scrutinizing
* Unanticipated
* Quick-tempered

The characteristics of the Dragon Sign are tempered by one of the five Chinese elements of Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth overlaying a 5-year cycle of characteristics on the original 12-year cycle.

AT HOME WITH THE DRAGON

Not the most domesticated of the Animal signs, Dragons and may be more content out and about rather than at home. Nevertheless, with their imagination and artistic sense, they can enjoy decorating their home or anywhere else where their extravagance can be expressed.. A Dragon's home should be as large and majestic as his personality, providing space for the fiery temperament or emotional eruptions that accompany their character.

THE DRAGON AT WORK

The Dragon's originality is the most impressive and outstanding of all his characteristics. The Dragon is quite imaginative and always able to see new paths where others may run into brick walls. Dragons are very adaptable and are fit for various occupations, especially if those occupations allow him to take the limelight. In any of these occupational situations, the Dragons will take a radical approach. Dragons work hard, but would rather give orders than receive them. They should avoid jobs that encompass too much routine, and should move toward jobs in which their self-reliance can be an asset.

THE DRAGON ON VACATION

Dragons are attracted by the bizarre. No self-respecting Dragon desires to walk in a tourist's footsteps. Instead, they take a lot of gratification in finding hidden destinations, or, closer to home, locations off the beaten track. But Dragons also need thrills, which they might find by taking an unplanned winter break to go skiing or a spontaneous rock climbing trip in the spring. They may even test their bravery by daring to ride the highest roller coaster in the world. Dragons are also sentimental at heart, so conquering their childhood haunts, or taking a second honeymoon would bring immense pleasure too.



FRIENDS AND ENEMIES

Dragons are usually popular people, but because of their personalities, they seem to gather as much criticism as they do esteem. Due to their tumultuous temperaments, Dragons are not the most sensitive friends to those in need of a shoulder to cry on. Those who truly know the Dragon know he is a loving soul who will become your best ally in times of need. Once the dynamic Dragon has given his friendship, he will not let his friends down and will never falter in his allegiance to his companions. To a Dragon, a friend is a friend for a lifetime. Incredibly honest, Dragons are known for sincerity and are trusting souls. Because of this honesty, Dragons don't realize others may not demonstrate or uphold the same codes of ethics. Making the discovery that they placed their trust in someone who is dishonest makes the Dragon person quite sad, yet much more perceptive for future encounters.

THE DRAGON IN LOVE

IRRESISTIBLE ATTRACTION
People love Dragons so much because they are generous, charismatic, irresistible, and so brave that standing beside them banishes fear. They generate excitement and turn heads anywhere they go. They are free-spirited and impulsive and can help others achieve their dreams. Others love to be around Dragons because they have a way of making people feel better. Dragons are quick to fall in love, but do not surrender their independence easily leaving most of them to live life by themselves. Yet, an smart, witty, and funny companion may intrigue the Dragon long enough to make him want to get married. And once the Dragon becomes committed, he is unlikely to ever leave.

THE DRAGON LOVE PARTNER
It takes someone with thick skin who is easygoing to be a Dragon's partner, because, despite their sentimental characters, they can be moody, and insensitive. Many people will want to run when the Dragon's temper is provoked. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must still make all efforts to maintain loving relationships. Following is a brief description of how a Dragon will affect a relationship with other Animal signs.



Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon

http://www.usbridalguide.com/special/chinesehoroscopes/Dragon.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_(zodiac)

See also:

Dragon fruit



Dragonfly

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Is the "Reilu meininki" in Pitsku really happening?

Let's hope the weather gets warmer and we can have the Reilu meininki on Saturday. At the moment the forecast looks quite good...

My flowers and plants are growing

My tulips look so pretty right now. There are still some smaller red tulips coming later but I love these. This color is so beautiful.



The whole garden is waking up and it is really green everywhere. I love spring and summer so much!



All of my plants have grown a lot.



The sunflowers have grown the most.

Aurinkoista Äitienpäivää

Maneki Neko

The Legend of Maneki Neko - The legend of the beckoning cat

A long time ago, during the Edo period (17th Century) of Japan, there was a poverty stricken priest, who was the keeper of a run down Temple in the Western part of Tokyo. The kind priest shared what little food he had with his pet cat and companion Tama, whom he cared for despite his poverty. Life was very difficult for the priest. The cold winds whistled through the Temple and chilled his old bones, rain poured in through the dilapidated roof, and he ached with hunger and exhaustion, yet he always remained dedicated to his duties, and grateful for what little he had.



On one particularly dreary day, the cold was cutting through his damp clothing like a million tiny knives. He went to make himself some tea, in hopes to warm himself, when he was crushed to see that he had no tea to make. His good nature turned to utter despair and sadness, and he slumped down in a corner and began to weep.



Concerned, his beloved companion Tama went toward the man to see if he could possibly comfort him. The priest exclaimed in frustration "Oh Tama! I am so very poor, and yet
still I keep you! Could you not one day, do something for this Temple? Do something for me?". His head fell into his hands and he wept quietly until he went to sleep.



Tama was puzzled, and decided to go to the outside of the temple for a while. He sat in front of the door and began cleaning himself, as cats do, licking his paws and rubbing them on his face.



Just then a very wealthy and powerful man was passing by the Temple as the gentle rain grew stronger and a violent thunder and lighting storm erupted. Large droplets of icy rain poured down and pelted him as he took refuge by a large tree. "This place will provide adequate shelter until the storm subsides" he thought. At that moment, he noticed a cat in the doorway of the old temple, cleaning his face with his paw, gesturing as though he were extending an invitation. This gesture puzzled him so, that he just had to have a closer look at this cat, who seemed to be beckoning him forth.



Cold and wet the man quickly approached the cat and entered the building. Moments later, the tree he had been using as shelter was struck by lightning and caught fire. The tree broke with a loud crash and flaming pieces of it’s shattered trunk fell precisely where the wealthy man had been standing.



The man was extremely grateful to the cat, for having saved his life. He was immediately compelled to find the owner of the cat and reward him. He entered the Temple, looking to find Tama‘s owner, and found he old priest, living in such deplorable conditions. He soon befriended the priest and showered him with gifts. The wealthy man used his influence to bring many wealthy people to the Temple, and it soon became very prosperous.



The cat had not only saved a life, but also relieved the priest of the burden of his poverty. When he died, the cat was honored by being buried in a special cemetery, and a statue was made in his likeness, reflecting the beckoning, raised paw that had brought so much good fortune and prosperity to his owner. As word of the events spread, people began placing figures of cats with raised paws in their homes, shops and temples, believing it would bring the same kind of prosperity into their own lives, that Tama had brought to the Priest.



Maneki Neko Today

Also known as the beckoning or Japanese fortune cat, Maneki neko has become a very popular symbol of good luck and an invitation to prosperity and success in business. It is typically represented as a cat adorned with a bib, collar and bell, with one paw raised and often holding a coin or fish in the other paw. Maneki Neko can often be found sitting in the windows and entrances of Asian shops and restaurants, but has been adapted to many modern variations, bringing a bit of good luck charm to keychains, chopsticks, air freshners and many other collectibles. It's likeness exists in traditional form as well as in many modern adaptations, ranging from cats with both paws raised, fat sumo cats in all colors of the rainbow, and has even been modified into other animals like dogs, pigs and rabbits!

Source

Read more about Maneki Neko:

http://www.namaii.com/manekineko/index.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maneki_Neko




Isan - The race to be first home

Vote for Chris

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"new designs"

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FINLAND

Christian Champagne

5 stars would be nice =)


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Myspace

Tehkääpä kaikki itsellenne myspace. Se on varsin hauska tapa kohdata uusia ihmisiä, löytää uutta musiikkia ja vaihtaa kuulumisia.

http://www.myspace.com/catssneeze

Pikillä, Pörrillä ja Kisullakin on myspace!

http://www.myspace.com/kurnauskis

Brezel Rezepte fuer Petra

Ich habe Brezeln nie selbst gemacht. Wir haben die immer gekauft, weil die in Deutschland so billig sind. Hier in Finnland gibt's die nicht oder wenigstens habe ich keine Brezln hier gesehen. Solche kleine harte kann man kaufen aber die sind nicht gleich.

Petra, du meintest aber die grössere Brezeln die weich sind und am besten schmecken wenn die frisch gebacken sind, gell?



Hier ist ein Rezept fuer Kuemmel Brezel (Kuemmel = kumina):

http://www.backrezepte-bb.de/brot/kuemmel-brezel-1.htm

...and another recipe in English:

http://www.kitchenproject.com/german/recipes/soft_pretzel_recipe_print.htm

Read about the wonderful delicacy called Pretzel

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pretzel

...und auf Deutsch

http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brezel

Running and studying

For these past few days I have just been studying. Yesterday and today we went jogging and I felt great afterwards. Today it rained a bit and it was so refreshing.

Tomorrow I'm going to the dentist again at 7.30. I have to wake up really early. I have a long day because I'm at school till 20.30.

Paljon onnea Antti!

Iloista synttäriä!

Tonight's menu

Asparagus with Hollandaise sauce



And the main course was home made Sushi

Kesälomaseuraa

Saamme kesälomaseuraa, kun Kaisa ja Ville pitkällisen harkinnan ja eri reittivaihtoehtojen tutkailun jälkeen tänään varasivat liput Bangkokiin. He ovat perillä vähän ennen meitä ja majoittuvat Aspasiaan, jonne mekin 12. kesäkuuta saavumme.
Lomaa odotellessa voinkin keskittyä tänään tenttikirjoihin ja harjoituksiin...

Eurovision song contest

If you are interested about the Eurovision song contest check these photos out:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kurkista/

Photos by Saša Tkalčan

http://www.kurkista.fi/

Today's red

Dancing Bull Zinfandel Rancho Zabaco



ZINFANDEL (77 %), SYRAH (8 %), PETIT SYRAH. 2002

Täyteläinen, notkea, mausteinen, lämmin, hillomainen

Rancho Zabaco Winery, California

http://www.alko.fi/tuotteet/fi/446607

Oma arvio: Pehmeä ja mukavan makuinen, lämmin. Voisin kuvitella juovani tätä viiniä syksyn pimenevinä iltoina kynttilän valossa. Kaiken kaikkiaan hyvä viini.

Kiitos Antille. Häneltä sain tämän viinin synttärilahjaksi.

Petralle: Björk live

Lomasuunnitelmien selkiytyminen

Tänään olen ostanut lentoliput Hong Kongista Phukettiin. Pitkällisen pohdinnan ja eri vaihtoehtojen tutkimisen jälkeen päädyimmekin ostamaan suorat lennot. Jätämme tällä kertaa Singaporen väliin emmekä myöskään käy Kuala Lumpurissa.

Vietämme päivän ja yhden yön Hong Kongissa Lantaun saarella, missä on maailman suurin istuva, ulkona sijaitseva Buddha patsas.



Seuraavana aamuna lennämme Cathay Pacifilla Phukettiin.



Tarkoitus on olla reilut kaksi viikkoa Thaimaassa, missä majapaikkanamme on Aspasia



Kata Beachilla.



Takaisin Hong Kongiin lennämme 27.6 ja vietämme siellä jäljellä olevat kolme päivää.

Viimeinen rutistus

Olen koko illan laskenut operatiivisen laskennan tehtäviä. Olen hieman hukassa, koska en ole kovin paljon niitä harjoitellut ja matematiikka missä muodossa tahansa on aina hyvin hankalaa minulle. Numerot ja laskut ovat ahdistavia ja vie kauan aikaa ennen kuin tajuan mistä mikäkin luku tulee. Se lienee suurelta osin harjoituksen puutetta, sillä en ole pahemmin ikinä ollut laskemisesta kiinnostunut.

Enää ei ole paljoa koulua jäljellä. Huomenna vielä viimeinen laskentatoimen tunti ja sitten onkin koe. Ruotsia myöskin enää yksi tunti ja koe. Markkinoinnista on vielä viimeinen tehtävä jäljellä. Operatiivisen laskennan koe kuitenkin ahdistaa jo nyt jonkin verran. Ensi viikonloppuna pitäisi olla vielä motivaatiota opiskella ahkerasti. Motivaatio on vaan viime aikoina ollut totaalisesti hukassa. Koko ajan on vain kesäloma mielessä. Siihen ei enää olekaan, kuin viisi viikkoa aikaa.

Vappu 2007

Juhlimme vappua eilen Christianin vanhemmilla Artilla ja Paulalla Marjaniemessä.

Mukana olivat myös Sirpa-täti ja mummi.



Vappuherkkuja:







Kaksi nimipäiväsankaria.

Suomen paras nuori kuski