The Rut

[Verse 1]
Early fall descended on the dry back country Aspens
It could be any time now that the bulls start bugling
I watched the pack mule panniers, see the loads are riding even
Is it in my mind or did I finally hear one sing?

[Verse 2]
It's been ten years since I first came to the mountains with my father
A half pint in each saddle bag and stars in both my eyes
I don't miss the taste of liquor or really anything about it
But the temporary shelter was a welcome compromise

[Chorus]
Oh friend, I'm gonna ride out of the rut I'm in
A little elevation and an open-ended prayer
Holdin' out for more than breakin' even
I've come back to the mountains and they're all still standin' there

[Verse 3]
The bull had come in tight and he was screamin' in dark timber
I could see his brown eyes movin', hear him breathin' as he wheeled
But tomorrow full of promise, I just lived there in the moment
Hunted back door camp for enough grouse to make a meal

[Chorus]
Oh friend, I'm gonna ride out of the rut I'm in
A little elevation and an open-ended prayer
Holdin' out for more than breakin' even
Well, I've come back to the mountains and they're all still standin' there

[Instrumental Break]

[Chorus]
Oh friend, I'm gonna ride out of the rut I'm in
A little elevation and an open-ended prayer
Holdin' out for more than breakin' even
I've come back to the mountains and they're all still standin' there