I see you through cracked windshields
my dark sunglasses and
prairie grasses
trees that cannot hold their leaves
and drifts that will not stay…
dirt roads that carry on that way.
You wave to me
through barbed fence wire
old tractor tires
and houses with nobody home
things that could not be repaired…
things that were left sitting there.
We stretch along horizon lines
and dip below the buttes
your mud stuck to my boots
a piece of you you’re pleased to share
a piece I’m pleased to take from you…
your sky an ever changing hue.
And you see me through rearview mirrors
windows down and open doors
places I have gone before
my headlights through the dust I stir
how quick I am to roam….
you rise up to meet me home.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch... 
Beautiful writing and photos!
Thanks robin. The way the badlands are always changing with the weather and seasons and sunlight fascinates me. They are the perfect photography subject 🙂
A few photos on the way to Killdeer? 🙂 Wonderful! I always wish I could remember to carry my camera with me and then to actually stop and take the time!
I am trying to get in the habit of taking it everywhere and taking time to actually stop and shoot! I don’t need to be in such a hurry all the time 🙂
BREATHTAKING pictures! You are such a talented photographer, and North Dakota is beautful. Thank you for sharing your amazing home with us!
Thank you country girl! I agree with the breathtaking views. Every time I rest my eyes upon the buttes of the badlands my heart beats just a little faster…
Your pictures make me long for ND. The deer welcomes you, too. Thank you.
Those deer are finding their homes in the hay bales around here…it’s been a long winter!
What a beautiful ode to your state! The pictures are a great combination, showing us visually as we follow the word pictures. Very nicely done.
Arletta
Thanks Arletta. Those views take my breath away every time…so inspiring…so home.
Jessie….The badlands speak through your poetry. It makes me lonesome for those sights.
Come and visit! The views miss you too!
Great photos!!!!
Thanks Melanie.
I just got done addressing your prize! Expect fun mail soon!
Nice escape for my mind… What great views!
Thanks rtcrita. So glad I could help you escape. The views indeed are amazing…even more so in person. They get me every time.
breath taking imagery, the shots are mind blowing…
welcome back,
Happy Potluck,
A++
beautiful
THIS IS TRULY LOVELY POETRY.
I love your pictures and the beautiful words.
Thanks for reading Debi!