Okaeri Nasai

“Okaeri nasai” means welcome home. What is more welcoming than a happy sight at the front door. Happy = plants in this case. I returned to D2, Japanese Walmart, to purchase some plants for our front porch. I brought a few pots with me to begin my horticulture collection. After a little TLC, our front porch is welcoming and screams to all arriving, okaeri nasai! (O-ka-airy nah-sigh)

Please notice the new addition, Maneki Neko. Maneki Neko or Lucky Cat is a very common sight in Japan. They are often seen in stores and restaurants to welcome customers. I couldn’t resist adding him to my cart at D2. When I returned home, I did a quick Internet search to understand the significance of lucky cat. There are many interpretations about the significance of how high the arm is raised and which one. Also, the color of the cat has a variety of meanings. As a result of the many interpretations, I feel it acceptable find my own meanings of my Maneki Neko. My Neko will bring good luck, wealth and happiness to all who cross his path and enter our home. He would also like a high-five or knuckles when you pass, FYI.