Today was opening day of Firearms Deer Season. It's kind of a local holiday in this area. My parents were hunters as were their parents before them, as we are. It's a time for camaraderie, everyone has their favorite "story". My Mom was a hunter and I hunt the way that she did. She was a stalking hunter, no deer stands for her (or I). We enjoy exploring the area, enjoying all that nature has to offer and if we're lucky we will see the elusive whitetail deer. They definitely have the advantage with this style of hunting. Their keen senses and knowledge of their "back yard" is second to none. I feel privileged to even get a glimpse of one let alone a shot.
I really miss my Mom at times like this. She stopped hunting a few years back but she was always up for a deer story or to listen to ours. She was supportive, encouraging, and helpful. She had a "hunch" where the deer would be at a given time. I feel fortunate to have been blessed with that gene and we had quite a few conversations about it over the years.
We are continuing on the tradition Mom - wish you were here!