As we pass field after field of wild flowers, gloriously grand open spaces I see a lone horseman on the ridge of the hill. His red vest is vivid against the clear sky. The tail of his horse blows in the wind and he gallops on. Soon we pass him and other mountains and fields come into view. Scattered Gers drift into sight and then are gone. Herds of cows, sheep, horses, and even a few camels fly past. The open spaces are romantic and make me wonder if this is how America looked before the settlers started West.

There is something raw about this land. It is undeveloped, unspoiled, untouched. Compared to China's development frenzy and lively new energy, Mongolia almost seems backward. But is is just a slower, older way of life. Modernity has not made its mark here yet. I see signs of its imminent arrival in the roads being paved, the Japanese cars being driven and the people dressed in American brands. But its not here yet and I can still appreciate the sight of the lone cowboy on the ridge.


Something I wasn't expecting to see... I suppose it's as good a way as any to transport camels.


Mongolian ruins


Our host family at Lake Ogyi.