It was a mixed year, starting with the secret thrill I obtained from going to Chinatown and verifying with a couple of not-entirely-fluent English speakers that we were indeed in the Year of the Cock. But, it's now a whole new animal:

In Chinese astrology, the dog is the most likable, honest and straightforward of all animals. Its influence is expected to bring a year of justice and harmony.

Each year of the Chinese 12-year zodiac is dominated by an animal. And each year also comes under the influence of one of the five elements - fire, water, wind, earth and wood. This year is a fire year...