The real story of the Chinese zodiac

Maya: Since the beginning of time, my father told me the legends of the Chinese that used the ancient lunar calendars to mark the passing of time. One of my favorite stories explains how my father got the 11th place out of the twelve animals and how they were chosen for the calendar, and just why my cousins the cat (Kyo) and the rat (Yuki) are sworn enemies. It has been passed through countless generations told repeatedly under starry skies, during bed time, and my personal favorite over hot cocoa. Now you can share this traditional legend with your children, like my father did with me and you loved ones. Enjoy!

Once upon a time, the Jade Emperor announced to the entire animal Kingdom that there would be an amazing race. The first twelve animals to cross the finish line would each be awarded one year in the lunar calendar. The news spread like wildfire and same with excitement. Now the cat and the rat were best of friends, they did everything together: eat, play, and even sleep. There wasn't a day that would go by were they didn't say "Howdy" to each other.

Rat: Howdy Cat.

Cat: Howdy Rat.

When Cat heard about the great news, he immediately told Rat whom excitedly jumped to his feet and agreed that they both should enter the race.

Cat: Rat, Rat we should enter.

Rat: Ok.

After many restless nights, all Rat could think of was winning the completion. But he said nothing to Cat who was happily dreaming about chasing butterflies. Finally, the day of the race arrived. All the animals gathered at the starting line

Rabbit: This is going to be fun guys, I hope I win!

Dragon: Well I admire your spirit but what makes you think you'll win, I can fly you hop.

Horse: I can bet you both I can run 48 mph.

Then with a "Bang" the race began. The rat jumped on the cat's back, the cat accepted him on his back. With fantastic speed, Rat and cat grabbed the lead, scurrying prickly bushes, running over grassy meadows until they came upon a vast river. The current was so strong that they couldn't swim across. The Cat was about to cross, when the Rat stopped him.

Rat: We can't swim that Cat, the current is to strong, and you're not a good swimmer.

Cat: Watch me.

He was about to attempted it, just as they were thinking of what to do. The sturdy Ox came upon them.

Ox: Hey Cat. Hey Rat.

Then the Rat begin full of good ideas, Rat suggest: