Ingredients (Makes 4-6 crepes)
1 cup all purpose flour
3 eggs beaten
1-1/4 cup of milk
1/4 cup of butter, melted
1 tablespoon of sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Method
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk all the ingredients together until the batter is smooth.

2. Heat a non-stick frying pan (or lightly oiled griddle) over medium heat and scoop the batter onto the pan. I used about 1/2 cup for each crepe.

3. Tilt the pan with a circular motion so that the batter coats the surface evenly.

4. Cook the crepe for about 2 minutes until the bottom is light brown, then turn the crepe over to cook the other side for another minute.

5. Remove the crepe from the pan onto a plate and add your desired toppings.

Breakfast crepe: scrambled eggs, chicken, ham, bacon, spinach, tomatoes, cheddar cheese.
Dessert crepe: strawberries, bananas, blackberries, nutella, powdered sugar, ice cream.

The Little Ballerina by thesashabell on DeviantArt.

Full credit goes to the image authors.

Lunar New Year occurs every year on the new moon of the first lunar month, which is the second new moon after the winter solstice. The new lunar year begins on January 23, 2012 – the year of the black water Dragon. This year promises to be a very interesting time that will provide plenty of opportunities for all members of the zodiacal circle. Here’s a look at each animal, their major personality traits and what the prospects are for 2012.

The Rat
1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008
Occupying the first and most prominent position on the Chinese zodiac, the Rat symbolizes such character traits as wit, imagination and curiosity. Rats have keen observation skills and with those skills they’re able to deduce much about other people and other situations. Overall, Rats are full of energy, talkative and charming but they have a tendency to become aggressive. Rats are full of good advice but they will never share their troubles with others. They are honest individuals and they enjoy living for the moment. They’re also capable of surviving any situation.

Rats will be quite happy and relaxed in 2012. This period will be successful for him if he will be optimistic and bold in his actions. Rats have a rare ability of coming out dry from the water, the first to feel danger, Therefore, he is better than the other zodiac signs in adapting to rapidly changing affairs and responding to unexpected problems. The greatest success can be achieved by a Rat, which is occupied with business, entrepreneurship, commercial activities, as well as a representative of this zodiac sign engaged in art work, culture and art.

Rat’s personal life in 2012 will be pushed into the background by him because work with a high rate of actions will not allow him to pay much attention to his partner and feelings – at least in the first half of 2012. Rat’s impulsiveness may lead to many problems even in relationships that may seem ideal at first glance. Single Rats will have the chance to meet their love in the second half of 2012 – this period is more favorable for development of relations and will be a good time for romantic encounters. Rats will not encounter treachery and betrayal by a partner – he needs to be concerned about his own poorly thought-out decisions and spontaneous actions.

The Ox
1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
Oxen possess such character traits as dependability, strength and determination. Oxen are tolerant individuals who believe that the road to success involves hard work and scrupulous behavior so they don’t believe in taking shortcuts. They characterize those who don’t work hard as lazy individuals not worthy of respect. Oxen are capable of trusting others and will listen to their opinions with an open mind. However, Oxen prefer making decisions that are based on their own research. Oxen favor strong, life-long alliances to casual acquaintances.

This year, the Ox will feel the stress of business affairs, but such prospects that he never dreamed of will immediately open. Hard work does not scare a representative of this zodiac sign, dedication and perseverance to follow his line of conduct would be enough. The Ox will see some difficulties in early 2012 as impregnable, but under a certain activeness, they can easily succumb and crumble to dust, freeing up the road. They should not seek solely to self-enrichment and acquisition of luxury – for him, is much more important to develop flexible work tactics and methods for efficient conduct of business, because the beginning of the year is the best time to start important and innovative projects.

The position of the planets in January 2012 is favorable for the development of relations in a couple – if the Ox will not be too busy at work. Most of the trouble in a relationship that may arise are often caused by Ox’s changing mood, his lack of restraint, and ambition. Spring will be a quieter period in the relationship. During this period, a single Ox may meet the person of his dreams. In summer, the couple may have conflict and quarrels. The Ox needs to be more calm and restrained. In fall, the couple may relax, at the same time, the Ox can take very important decisions concerning not only his business but also his personal life.

The Tiger
1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
The Tiger symbolizes such character traits as bravery, competitiveness, and unpredictability. Tigers love to be challenged and will accept any challenge if it means protecting a loved one or protecting their honor. They don’t worry about the outcome because they know they’ll always land on their feet. Don’t let their calm appearance fool you though – Tigers will pounce when they feel it’s necessary. Born to lead, Tigers can be stubborn if they realize they’re not in charge. They have a slight tendency to be selfish but overall, Tigers are extremely generous. They’re very intelligent and they’re always on alert. Tigers are very charming and are well-liked by others. They are not motivated by money or power.

Tiger in 2012 will feel himself in his element – he likes high intensity of activities, and he will be only glad to constant provocations of problems, taking them for a better chance to showcase his remarkable abilities. Tiger had a difficult time last year, he was forced to adjust to difficult flow of time, as if teasing his pride. This year will require not less work, but the results of Tiger’s labor will be seen already by the first days of 2012.

The beginning of 2012 will be a favorable time for development of relations between the couple. Tiger would feel the need to pay attention to his partner, and develop relationships. If the spouses have disputes, they can easily sort them out now. In spring and summer, strains between the couple may increase, and this is associated with Tiger’s high intensity of work. A single Tiger has the opportunity of finding his love in spring or fall of 2012, while in summer he will be too distracted to pay due attention to his feelings.

The Rabbit
1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
The Rabbit symbolizes such character traits as creativity, compassion, and sensitivity. Rabbits are friendly, outgoing and prefer the company of others. They also prefer to avoid conflict. In confrontational situations, Rabbits approach calmly and with consideration for the other party. Rabbits believe strongly in friends and family and lacking such bonds can lead to emotional issues. Their serene nature keeps Rabbits from becoming visibly upset. Because they’re serene animals, Rabbits are easily taken advantage of. Their sensitive nature makes them shy away from aggressive or competitive situations. They’re overall conservative and not interested in taking risks.

Rabbit is one of the more favorable animals in the year of 2012. He will not have as many problems as other members of the zodiacal circle, but can achieve much success only if he wants. Rabbit can successfully correct the mistakes of last year, correct his activities, which for some reason took a false direction. A representative of this zodiac sign will learn to cope with difficulties, he will be in the spotlight and will be in a combat and optimistic mood.

Rabbit’s personal life in early 2012 however, will be troubled. Rabbit’s over-employment, his nervousness or euphoria of victory will affect his relationship with his partner. By spring, a representative of this zodiac sign may become irritable and impatient, he will seek to win the right position in society, while losing ground in his relations with his spouse. At the first occurrence of trouble, Rabbit should improve the situation, pay attention to the feelings and wishes of his loved one. Single Rabbits in the first half of 2012 may indulge in romantic adventures and look for light flirtations, but a fateful meeting with a loved one will take place during fall.

The Dragon
1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
The Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Dragons symbolize such character traits as dominance and ambition. Dragons prefer to live by their own rules and if left on their own, are usually successful. They’re driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. They’re passionate in all they do and they do things in grand fashion. Unfortunately, this passion and enthusiasm can leave Dragons feeling exhausted and interestingly, unfulfilled. While Dragons frequently help others, rarely will they ask for help. Others are attracted to Dragons, especially their colorful personalities, but deep down, Dragons prefer to be alone. Perhaps that is because they’re most successful when working alone. Their preference to be alone can come across as arrogance or conceitedness, but these qualities aren’t applicable. Dragons have tempers that can flare fast!

Although Dragon is the master in 2012, this period will bring him a lot of problems that need to be addressed on the go. Such confidence of all signs of the zodiacal circle places greater responsibility on Dragon, and he just cannot stay away from affairs, and remain indifferent to common work. A representative of this zodiac sign will be inclined to take upon his mighty shoulders a lot of work, and is at risk of even overestimating his own strength, and not cope with high ambitions and plans.

Dragon who is a spouse, will focus on improving his home. He would be happy to buy gifts and necessities for the family, helping friends and relatives. In spring, relationship with a partner may be strained because of Dragon’s orientation only to activities, but this time can be used effectively to calmly sort out his relationship with their partner after problems have emerged. In early 2012, a single Dragon may meet his love, and successfully develop and strengthen the relationship throughout the year.

The Snake
1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001
The Snake symbolizes such character traits as intelligence, gracefulness and materialism. When it comes to decision-making, Snakes are extremely analytical and as a result, they don’t jump into situations. They are effective at getting the things they want, even if it means they have to scheme and plot along the way. Snakes are very materialistic creatures, preferring to surround themselves with the finest that life has to offer. This is especially evident in the home, where luxurious furnishings and surroundings help Snakes seek the peace they need in order to thrive.

For Snake, the difficulties of the year will seem not quite so pervasive – he can avoid sharp corners, and will calmly work in a planned manner, focusing on his own subtle intuition and natural wisdom. He cannot be mislead by a grand speech or tinsel glitter of carnival for he is used to seeing things from the inside out, pinpointing the worthiest and most perspective ones among them. Snake will try to turn around all possibilities and problems in affairs for the maximum benefit for himself, and if his activity will be active throughout the whole year of 2012, Snake will be the winner among all members of the zodiacal circle.

Whatever the case, Snake’s personal life is both his rear and a source of pride and well-protected haven of comfort and tranquility. Snake in the coming 2012 will be full of charm and charisma, he will easily find a mate – if, of course, he is interested in such a matter. During fall, a married Snake will receive unexpected pleasant news from relatives. He will strengthen relationship with a partner, take care of loved ones and help everyone who needs help.

The Horse
1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002
The Horse symbolizes such character traits as strength, energy, and an outgoing nature. Extremely animated, Horses thrive when they’re the center of attention. Always in search of a good time, Horses keep the crowds happy with their humor and their wit. Horses are extremely intelligent so they’re able to grasp new subjects with ease. They’re also capable of multi-tasking, however they don’t always finish what they start because they’re forever chasing the next opportunity. Horses are honest, friendly and open-minded. They’re perhaps a bit too centered on themselves and have been known to throw tantrums when situations don’t go their way.

Horse in 2012 will be close in spirit to the general mood of the time. Like the black water Dragon, he loves parades, festivals, public processions, and honors, and can withstand any test to become a triumpher at the end of the period. A representative of this zodiac sign need not dissipate his energies on many types of activities – he should just select the most productive for himself, and seek for their deep and careful execution. All Horse’s thoughts must not be frivolous in nature – he must be extremely careful and serious so as to be ready to adequately encounter both challenges and successes in his affairs.

With the advent of 2012, Horse will be full of romantic mood, he will be happy to flirt and meet new people. Spouses will have a favorable period for the development of their feelings, while a single horse can find love just at the brink of 2012. Spring will pass in the wave of agreement and understanding between the spouses, but summer may complicate their relationship, adding tension and irritation. In autumn, Horse will be more flexible, he will want warmth and comfort, and will focus on family communication more than on social connections. Spouses can afford a romantic vacation. A single horse will be ready for a landmark meeting with his destiny.

The Goat
1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003
The Goat symbolizes such character traits as creativity, intelligence, dependability, and calmness. Comfortable being alone to ponder the workings of their inner minds, Goats enjoy being part of a group, but prefer the sidelines rather than the center. Their nurturing personality makes Goats excellent care-givers. They’re quiet and reserved because they spend much time absorbed in their thoughts. Home is where Goats feel most comfortable. There they can express themselves artistically, whether it’s by painting, cooking or participating in whatever artistic endeavors they enjoy. Goats prefer the couch because there they can relax and explore their minds. They don’t need elaborate furnishings – only items reflecting their desire for art.

This is a calm year for Goats, though not without difficulties. A representative of this zodiac sign can be very successful if he will use all opportunities in his work and communicate more. Goat will be in the spotlight, he is eccentric, artistic, and his creative talents can be used in the best way at work. But he is afraid of failures, mistakes, and regards every departure from the ceremonial victory march as a personal tragedy. Instability of mood, constant tantrums and depression can lead Goat to a nervous breakdown and sleep disorders. As a result, he may lose his position at work, suffering not from external circumstances, but from internal contradictions.

Goat’s selfishness and passion only through his feelings and experiences can greatly complicate his personal life in 2012. He may be to blame for the numerous quarrels that will arise in early 2012. Goat should pay attention to self-education, educate his personality, learn to interact with a partner and not dominate in a relationship – it is then he would be ready for equal constructive dialogue. Single Goat will be successful among the opposite sex, and will easily find his soul mate in spring or fall, if, of course, he will be very willing to continue a romantic relationship.

The Monkey
1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004
The Monkey possesses such character traits as curiosity, mischievousness, and cleverness. Forever playful, Monkeys are the masters of practical jokes. Even though their intentions are always good, this desire to be a prankster has a tendency to create ill will and hurt feelings. Although they are inherently intellectual and creative, Monkeys at times have trouble exhibiting these qualities. When that happens, they appear to others to be confused. But nothing could be further from the truth as Monkeys thrive on being challenged. Monkeys prefer urban life to rural, and their favorite pastime is people-watching.

For Monkey, the year 2012 will be very productive, he will gladly flow into the high pace of work, and will feel at ease in the most intense affairs of 2012. Monkey skillfully using problems as a chance to show all his talents, will show himself in a team. He is optimistic, never discouraged, and even after defeat when other zodiac signs may retreat before difficulties, the Monkey will feel fine, and break forward, despite defeat.

In early 2012, Monkey will have a lot of affairs that he will just forget about romance. But to his credit, he will try to maintain harmony in a relationship, inviting a partner to work together with him. Having organized joint activities, the couple may become even closer to each other than they were before. If Monkey will not provoke conflicts, the first half of 2012 will pass peacefully and interestingly. Spring is the perfect time to find his own happiness, make marriage proposals, and plan for the future. The second half of 2012 may can come with misunderstanding and irritation between the couple. The spouses may quarrel due to Monkey’s over-employment, his desire to only be engaged with work to the detriment of his family relationship. Single Monkey may meet his love before the new year.

The Rooster
1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005
The Rooster symbolizes such character traits as confidence, pompousness and motivation. Those born under the Chinese Zodiac sign of the Rooster are loyal, trustworthy individuals who are blunt when it comes to offering their opinions. Their bluntness stems not from being mean but from being honest – a trait which Roosters expect from others. Roosters are extremely sociable and prefer being the center of attention, always bragging about themselves and their accomplishments. They continually seek the unwavering attention of others which can be annoying. Roosters are as proud of their homes as they are of themselves. They’re extremely organized individuals as evidenced by the fact that their homes are always neat.

The Rooster is one of the few zodiac signs that will feel an extraordinary lightness and lift in strength, and this will allow him to overcome even the greatest difficulties in his path. The main thing for Rooster is a goal and an idea which he should strive to achieve, otherwise his activities would lose their meaning, and he risks just staying in a place in his development. In addition to absolute leadership inclinations, great ambitions in the year 2012 of the black water Dragon will require from him the ability to communicate, work in teams, actively and quickly respond to problems, and be more attentive to close ones.

Rooster’s personal life will not be smooth and calm this year, but he will have a good chance to correct all discrepancies in a relationship with his partner, build them from scratch, find his happiness, if his heart till then remains single. In early 2012, the partners will find mutual understanding, but lonely representatives of this zodiac sign will not be able to step over their pride and ambition to create an equal union. The second half of 2012 will be calmer, bringing peace and happiness to all Roosters.

The Dog
1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006
The Dog symbolizes character traits such as loyalty, compatibility and kindness. Dogs frequently offer kind words and useful advice, always listening and lending a shoulder when necessary. Dogs often become deeply involved in others’ lives and are sometimes perceived as nosy. Ensuring others are happy is more important to the Dog than wealth, money or success. Dogs are determined individuals – always wanting to master a new subject before moving on and always finishing what they start. Dogs value friendships – they’re loyal, honest, trustworthy and reliable and have strong morals and ethics.

This year, Dogs will feel relaxed even though he will be determined for an active, long-term work. For 2012, Dog will have as much material and social benefits as how much he can earn and take in his life. The favorable position of the planets throughout 2012 will help the Dog in affairs, turning them in such a way that even problems and difficulties will become launching pads for his further success. A representative of this zodiac sign should not fidget about and think twice because decisions must be taken accurately, quickly and decisively.

In 2012, the Dog will carefully be engaged in the issue of organization of his personal life, because it needs support, a sturdy rear, a faithful and reliable person beside him. A single dog will try everywhere to have success, he will start romantic affairs, easily entering into a relationship, and just as easily abandoning them in favor of new, more vivid ones. Such an attitude toward feelings and attitudes can console Dog’s self-esteem, but does not suit his personal happiness, and thus a representative of this zodiac sign should be more serious and selective. In spring, a married Dog will be engaged in home and family affairs, but in summer, his relationship with a partner may witness some tension, annoyance, and dissatisfaction with each other. A single Dog in summer will be too busy with himself to pay attention to the feelings of others. Autumn is a beautiful time for creation of a family, love confessions and sorting out issues in a relationship. This period should be used to create such a relationship of which the Dog dreams.

The Pig
1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007
The Pig symbolizes such character traits as diligence, compassion, and generosity. Pigs enjoy life and because they’re entertaining, others enjoy their company. Pigs are giving souls and reap much enjoyment when they’re helping others, but sometimes they give too much. Honesty is what Pigs give and it’s what they expect to receive in return. Pigs seek peace and will do what is necessary to maintain it. This trait, while admirable, sometimes makes it easy for others to take advantage of Pigs. Pigs are always doing for others, helping anyway they can, but rarely will they ask others for help. This can overwhelm and stress them, but Pigs don’t mind. When it comes to money, Pigs enjoy spending more than saving. They gravitate towards name brand items. Thriftiness happens only occasionally, but Pigs do know how to find great deals.

The Pig would be happy to enjoy all the benefits and opportunities in the year of 2012. For him, it would be a good time full of victories, good work, and most importantly – of material prosperity. The Pig is an open, cheerful and good-natured zodiac sign. He is generous, willingly shares all he has, and invites visitors. But even in spite of the favorable trends of 2012, Pigs can remain indifferent to the many opportunities, being carried away by fun holidays, and not noticing the boring but necessary work.

Pig’s personal life will not be quiet, but it will certainly be a happy one, if a representative of this zodiac sign will not engage in public activities to the detriment of a romantic relationship with a partner. If the relationship of the spouses has outlived itself, and the partners have come to a mutual decision to part, it’s best to do so right now, in early 2012. Because spring will bring Pig a landmark meeting that will begin a new and promising romantic relationship. In summer, the relationship between the partners will have a favorable development, but the Pig must not be too picky and pedantic so as not to provoke tension. Autumn is a good time for meetings, a single Pig can easily find his love and will be ready for long-term romantic relationship.

To read more about Chinese astrology and Chinese new year, visit Go To Horoscope.

Check out last year’s post on Year of the Rabbit to look back on 2011 in retrospect.