My grandfather was an amazing man, the kind every little kid dreams about, with a quick grin,

a ready hand, and an open heart. His warmth and his wit are legendary in my family nowadays,

even after his passing nearly fifteen years ago.

Every time he told a story, even one he'd told before, the whole family would gather

to listen, captured by his narrative.

One of my favorite stories that my grandfather told, and the one I want to share with you

today, was about his mother, my great grandmother, who was Cherokee. He loved to tell us about

his memories of her, such as sitting at her feet, watching her combing out her long black hair.

He also told us about a game she had played as a girl, the original name of which he couldn't

remember, but which he had taken to calling Cherokee Checkers.

It was a favorite of hers, one that she taught him how to play and he taught me. The game was

originally played using dried corn kernels, half light yellow and half the darker red kernels, on a flat

stone with a chalk board drawn on it, complete with little painted squares.

He had hours of fun playing with her as a child, and he taught the game to my father, and to me and

my brothers as well.

Now I've decided to share it with all of you and I sincerely hope that you enjoy it as

much as my family has!

iPhone