Beliefs

I see something similar to this every time I go to eat Chinese or Japanese. I always wondered why this cat's paw just kept waving up and down at me. What is cat doing here, in this restaurant? I finally found out.

It's a kitchy Maneki Nekko (Japanese for "Beckoning Cat"). When the right paw is up it is to attract customers. When the left paw is up it is to attract money. The next time I am at one of these restaurants, I will check to see if they want to please their customers, or if they just want their customer's money.

I have also seen a lot of these in stores lately. What in the world?

I found out too... It's a Fu Dog. It is believed they bring safety and luck to your home. I kind of like them, especially the bookends. But... Luckily I am not too superstitious so I do not feel like I need them. Now, opening an umbrella inside or breaking a mirror... I will not do!