Tanabata-tsume, the Weaver Maid, is the patron deity of weaving in Japan and the subject of an old and beautiful legend. Devoted to her husband, she neglected her work, and was banished across the River of Heaven (the Milky Way). However, once a year, birds form a bridge over the river with their wings so the couple can be reunited for one night - the night when women pray for skill in Japan's marvelous textile traditions. Tanabata is on July 7th and is a part of Japanese folklore. The day celebrates the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi (associated with the stars Vega and Altair), two deities that were separated by an entire galaxy for being too in love to do their jobs. Additionally, the Milky Way (Amanogawa) is considered a literal river.