Giddy up!

In 1972 we moved from the farm to our very own house in Ethan, SD. I road to town in the back of a pickup truck, tucked under the family dining table. As the vehicle rumbled along the bumpy gravel road, rocks skidding beneath the tires created a symphony to accompany my new adventure. Dust swirled up in clouds, painting everything in a light, earthy hue, and the smell of freshly plowed fields hung in the breeze. Each bump made my heart race a little faster, amplifying the excitement of change.

Living in town was akin to stepping into an adventure story, where each day unfolded with new freedoms and discoveries. With the liberating ability to wander just a few blocks on foot, my young heart raced with excitement as I embarked on tiny quests to find the best climbing tree or locate open lots to explore. Occasionally, Mom would give me a nickel, so I could walk to Margaret and Julie’s grocery store to buy candy. Along the way, I met a few friends who shared my sense of wonder; together, we would create imaginary worlds at the local ball diamond, negotiating the roles of explorers, pirates, or cowboys.

Celebrating my fifth birthday shortly after moving to town was like stepping into a magical world filled with laughter and joy. New friends arrived with small gifts wrapped in colorful paper, each one shimmering with excitement. Our living room was alive with the sound of giggles and the delight of new crayons and a colorful storybook. The highlight of the day came when my mom and dad unveiled the best gift of all: a stunning cowgirl outfit that made me feel like I was ready to ride off into the sunset on a trusty steed. The outfit, complete with a miniature cowboy hat, a fringed vest, and silver six-shooters, transformed me into a fearless adventurer in my own make-believe wild west kingdom.

few days later, decked out in my vibrant cowgirl outfit, I climbed into our tan Chevy Impala ready to head to Mitchell for Corn Palace Days. Once there, I hopped out of the car ready to immerse myself in the jubilant chaos of the fairway. The air buzzed with excitement as I took Mom's hand and we made our way towards the colorful carousel, each ornate horse carved with an air of elegance and whimsy. My heart raced at the sight of a particularly fabulous horse, its mane painted in a kaleidoscope of colors, beckoning to me with enchantment. As I mounted the steed, the world around me transformed into a dizzying swirl of vibrant carnival lights, joyous laughter, and the charming melodies of the carousel music.

As the carousel spun around, I felt like I was truly galloping through the Wild West, lassoing imaginary outlaws and saving the day. Laughter filled the air, and the tassels of my new cowgirl outfit twirled in the breeze, making me feel as if I were the star of my own adventure. When the ride came to an end, I hopped off the horse with a twinkle in my eye, my heart brimming with joy.

I ran to my mom, her smile wide and warm, and hugged her tightly, overwhelmed by the love she showed in giving me this unforgettable day. “Thank you for the best birthday ever!” I squealed, feeling like the luckiest cowgirl in the world.

As the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, we rode back to Ethan chatting animatedly about my favorite part of the carousel. In that moment, I realized that the greatest gift was not just the cowgirl outfit or the ride itself, but the love and memories we were creating together. Filled with a sense of belonging and happiness, I knew my parents would always be there, cheering me on throughout every adventure.