Tashi Dalek!

Today is the first day of the Tibetan year 2137, so tashi dalek (which means, I understand, may auspicious blessings come to you).  This is an male iron tiger year, and if anyone can explain the significance of a male iron tiger, please do so. It is also Chinese new year, which in China is a day for religious observances as well as parties, parades and fireworks.

In other news -- President Obama will meet with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the White House on February 18, finally.  His Holiness will be received in the map room instead of the Oval Office, however. The Dalai Lama has never been allowed into the Oval Office.