Maneki Neko

Happy Thursday!
I have been haunted by this cat for a few months now. Every time I go to an asian restaurant, or my local nail salon, there it is. (not sure if it's male or female...)
Well, I finally investigated, to put an end to my wonderment.....
This is Maneki Neko, also known as the Welcoming/Fortune/ Money/Beckoning Cat (depending on who you ask, or which paw is raised)
It's paw always reminds me of a fist, but it's actually supposed to symbolize a beckoning motion, as in "C'mon in!" In Asian culture, this beckoning motion is done with the palm facing the opposite way we would do it in the West. So, it looks more like a kitty swiping/scratching.
Sometimes you even see the arm with a counterweight in it so it actually moves to welcome customers into an establishment. It is supposed to bring in business, so more money is made by the shop owner.
It reminds me a bit of Hello Kitty, I think that's why I'm attracted to it.
Today was a usual day around here. Went to the craft store and bought yarn,and then went to the bead store and got beads to go with a couple of pendants I've been stashing for a while.
I made some bean thread noodles and they came out very good. I've tried making them in the past, and they always disapoint me. Maybe these were just a better brand ?
Harley is upstairs barking because she wants shrimp. I made some for my supper, and left them to log on and check my mail.
Oyasuminasi!