Blue Corn Maiden

This past weekend, my parents made the trek from Nebraska to Denver to finally meet Abigail.  Their tenth grandchild, my folks are a pro at the grandparent gig, but our time together was still very special and something I had been looking forward to.  In particular, I was looking forward to my father bringing Abbey her Zuni fetish.

No, not that kind of fetish, you dirty bird.

My father, an archaeologist, loves all things Native American.  He has given each of his grandchildren a Zuni fetish upon their birth following a "vision".  Traditionally, Zuni fetishes are small carvings made from various materials by the Zuni Indians. These carvings serve a ceremonial purpose and depict animals and icons integral to their culture.  For the holder of the fetish, the carvings are thought to bring luck or strength, much like a totem or talisman.

Grandpa has designated Abbey to be Blue Corn Maiden.  Corn, a main food staple, is a pretty big deal to the Zuni and held in much reverence.  It signifies life its self.  The Hopi of the Pueblo People also have a wonderful legend about the Blue Corn Maiden that I enjoyed reading.  Essentially, the Blue Corn Maiden was the most beautiful of the three corn maiden sisters.  She is a sign of springtime.  It's all quite appropriate.  Abbey really is like a perfect spring day - full of life and potential.  My little blue corn maiden. 


Thank you, Grandpa.