2013 is the year of the Water Snake, which officially began on February 4th, with the New Year celebrated today in Chinese communities around the world. Those born in the Year of the Snake “are intuitive, introspective and graceful. They are exciting and dark at the same time. Frequently contemplative and private, the Snake is not outwardly emotional, and will often plot and scheme to achieve their desires. Water Snakes, in particular, are influential and insightful, and more flexible than other Snakes. They manage others well and are very determined. They are affectionate with their family and friends, but do not show this side of their personality to colleagues or business partners.”

• Snake lucky gemstone: Topaz, jasper, bloodstone
• Snake lucky colour: Red
• Most compatible signs for the Snake: Rooster, Ox and Dragon
• Most incompatible signs for the Snake: Pig, Monkey and Tiger
• Most compatible careers for Snakes: Scientists, analysts, jewellers, spiritual leaders, sociologists, astrologers, investigators and painters

People born in the Year of the Snake include: Helen Reddy, Peter Garrett, Malcolm Young, Mark Waugh, Steve Waugh, John Polson, Ada Nicodemou, Cadel Evans, Barry Hall, Michael Klim, Jessica Mauboy, Jeff Fatt, Darren Lockyer, David Wenham, Audrey Hepburn, Howard Hughes, Grace Kelly, Jacqueline Onassis, Linda McCartney, Oprah Winfrey, Queen Elizabeth I, Virginia Woolf and Bob Dylan. (Source: 2013 Year of the Snake)

Chinese New Year festivities have always been a yearly highlight for me, especially when I was younger. Children receive money in red packets from their married elders, I could eat and drink pretty much as much junk food, cookies and soft drinks as I pleased, and there were new clothes and shoes to wear. What’s there not to love?!

As I’ve grown older though, Chinese New Year has come to mean the opportunity to spend time with my family, catching up with everyone on reunion dinner night, giving as much as receiving. I’ve missed my fair share of Chinese New Year celebrations; this year I’ve flown home to see my parents as a surprise! I can’t wait to see their faces when I turn up and ask for my New Year angpau!

May the year of the Snake bring you all joy, good health and prosperity.