This was to be their first, grand journey.

Who would dare believe?

Sarah Maple, and Ol’ Bear

Her special, robot teddy!

Both, strapped inside Securely;

Await a lifetime ride;

Her heart is jumping, as 

Her nine-ish, choc’ late eyes grow wide.

Fear mixes with Excitement;

Humility with pride;

When she realizes she’s

Histories first starfolk child.

Soon, they would be riding, 

 
Fiery, rolling, thunder, cloud

above the humid dawn. Destination:

International Space Station.

Then, tucking one loose lock of

Coal-black hair behind her ear;

Glances sideward to Ol’ Bear…and gulps.

He gives one soothing wink to Sar. She smiles.

Then, hanging on

For all they’re worth,

They soon are floating

High, above the earth.

Copyright 2007 by Zach B. McClure