Grandmother gazed thoughtfully at the writing, touching the paper with trembling hand.

"Wonoma, the basket under the bed is the last I made. I want Mrs. Bidwell to have it."

Wonoma held the basket close and ran her finger along the smooth tiny stitches. "It is more beautiful than any basket in the great house. Mrs. Bidwell will treasure it."

As Grandmother took Wonoma's hand, her eyes glistened with happiness. "Many years ago, before my own grandfather died, he told me to keep the ways of the Maidu. I see our people must change now, but the Maidu ways will live on in the basket and in the stories."

Joy filled Wonoma's heart. "Yes, Grandmother . . . and your spirit will live with them."

Grandmother held tightly to Wonoma's hand. "Thank you, Wonoma, for helping me to keep the ways."

To learn more about Nesuya's Basket, and my other children's books, please visit my home page.

http://www.snowcrest.net/kidpower/carol.html

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