Prairie In The Sky

About 20 years ago, I was in Bozeman, MT attending a scientific conference. I explored Yellowstone, the Gallatin Valley, took a ski lift to the top of a mountain, bought a pair of snakeskin cowboy boots, got hammered on local beer in a bar where the band played Ian Tyson covers, and went to the rodeo.

It was touch-and-go at the airport. At the very last minute, I got on board for Philadelphia. Decision? Fear?

I ride an old blue roan, I carry all I own
In the pouches of my saddle bags with my bedroll tied behind

There's a prairie in the sky, I'll find it by and by
Hues of brown and yellow to make a soul unwind

Let the music take me home to where my heart may roam
I'll fly across the meadows, and touch the tall grass as I go.

Let the gentle western wind stay with me 'til the end
Beside me 'til the day is done and the sun has settled low.

Leave the ponies to run free, far as the eye can see
I'd ride the range forever just to see them once again.

Let the wild, flying things soar above me on their wings
The stars fill up the night sky and the moon light up the plains.

I ride an old blue roan, I carry all I own
In the pouches of my saddle bags with my bedroll tied behind.

-Mary McCaslin