By Ray Tyler from The Rockytier, September 2009
Well, the answer is easy so hang on here
For years before I caught the bug
Every where I went I walked o’er rocks
Put ‘ em in my pocket and scattered on the rug.
I especially liked the beauty of rocks when wet
But the colors didn’t last when dry
So I just kept on kicking each and all
Long before I started to pry.
I guess the turning point came this way
When my wife’s uncle showed me a “cab”
Why that was the ‘purtest ’ thing I’d ever seen
Horace Brown was working in his lab.
That cab as it was known that day
Shined like the blue of the sky
Said he to me its easy as pie
Set right down and give yourself a try.
That cab was ‘purtyer’ than any on planet earth
Horace grinned and told a whooper of a lie
Even tho’ the cab had several scratches
Unknown to me my ego took off on high.
Off I went on hunting each chance I got
I’m saying to you I went far and near
In time I got my head on straight
Learned the jargon and snakes gave no fear.
Off to Oregon..hunted jade in Wyoming
In places in Texas I never knew we have
From the Panhandle to the coast
We’re a bit inclined for our state we boast.
There are certain rules we must adhere to
Like we should ask for permission
To climb thru his fences and gates
Or the next one by will surely face remission.
Its easy to become a member of a club
As we show our wares and stones to all
If one really wants to be a Rockhound
You’re sure to answer when the roles call.
~Ray Tyler