A Real Cowgirl
I ran into Susan Merill, a poet and performer from Colorado, while I was hanging out with Sue Rosoff and Liz Masterson on Sunday before I headed home to Humboldt. She recited one of her own poems for me, and she gave me permission to share it. I know a lot of gals who can probably relate.
A Real Cowgirl
I remember…
We were celebratin’ cowboys; it was like a Western fest.
The whole town came to gather to meet-n-greet each guest.
Now, most men in attendance were ‘neath a cowboy hat.
And no one thought much of it cuz ‘twas the fest for that.
But in the crowd among us a hat crowned one in curls.
There was no denying ‘twas worn by a cowgirl!
I greeted her a-smilin’ and said, “I like yer hat!”
But ‘stead of being cordial, she hissed just like a cat!
Then her posture changed a-sudden; she grew an inch or two!
She stuck her finger at me sayin’, “I’ve got news for you!”
“I’m a real cowgirl! Not a wanna-be! No how!”
My eyes grew wider as she barked, “I own a herd of cows!”
She spent the next ten minutes ascertaining that it’s true.
Yep! She’s a real cowgirl! And her cows vouch for her too!
I kept a smile on my face just nodding right along,
hopin’ she’d come up for air, then the band broke into song.
My toes, they got to tappin’, so I smiled at her and said,
“It’s been a thrill to meet ya! Keep that Stetson on yer head!”
Then, I grabbed the nearest cowboy, and he twirled me ‘round the floor.
I forgot about “Miss Cowgirl” as we two-stepped out the door.
The next day, I remembered the comments that she said,
and her bitter disposition. I just had to shake my head.
Cuz I know a lot of ladies, and they’re cowgirls sure enough.
And none of them own cattle, but they’re talented and tough.
Some barrel race in rodeos. Some take out trail rides.
Some help fix fence and put up hay. Some act as hunting guides.
Some are Roman riders. Some can spin the “Wedding Ring”.
Some can strum a fine guit-fiddle and can yodel when they sing!
Some drive a team of Belgians harnessed to a sleigh.
Some hammer shoes to fit and wrestle horses’ feet all day.
Some run the gate, some vaccinate. They all can bake and sew.
Though most of them don’t wear a hat, they’re true as cowgirls go.
So, I chuckle when remembrin’ the hat that covered curls.
Bet she’s still convincin’ all her cows that she’s a real cowgirl!
Dear Kristin,
Thanks so much for posting my poem on your blog! I’m ever-grateful to your being so kind toward me!
Keep in touch!
Susie MerrillPosted by Susan Merrill on 02/12 at 02:04 PMI really enjoyed the special show you guys put on for me! I missed Sue when I was in Southern California, but I’m hoping to meet up with her next weekend at a high school rodeo. Once I get the video footage from her, I’ll put that up, too. Give the other ladies my apologies for the delay! Hope I see y’all again next year!
Posted by Kristin on 02/20 at 06:48 PM
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