Such is turkey season... I relate closely to "am I hunting or playing?" as I've had to ask myself that question more than a few times. I know it doesn't cure the sting of no turkey in the freezer, but it sounds like you added a lot more knowledge about some turkey spots and turkey behavior which is never a bad thing. I'll take knowledge just as often as meat!
Not deeply into hunting, I confess. But I am into your evocative writing so am riveted by your accounts. Your pursuits feel so far from AI and phones and inboxes and agendas and so closely woven into your surroundings.
Your focus during these hunts is inspirational! If nothing else, there is clarity to be gained from this type of pursuit. Really enjoy how you relate the experiences!
I was riveted (like Julia!)--like reading a story and convincing yourself there WILL be a happy ending if you just keep reading. But only happy ending is for the birds that got away--seems like all of them actually did. There is a reason patience is a virtue. Next season...
"released an arrow. Feathers and commotion and — he ran off, unphased, taking hens with him. Left wishing I could have those few minutes back." These are the moments that are painfully satisfying in the best way to reflect on. Great stuff Lou.
Such is turkey season... I relate closely to "am I hunting or playing?" as I've had to ask myself that question more than a few times. I know it doesn't cure the sting of no turkey in the freezer, but it sounds like you added a lot more knowledge about some turkey spots and turkey behavior which is never a bad thing. I'll take knowledge just as often as meat!
My only consolation is I certainly learned a lot this season. But man, would I like to be enjoying some turkey enchiladas right now!
Not deeply into hunting, I confess. But I am into your evocative writing so am riveted by your accounts. Your pursuits feel so far from AI and phones and inboxes and agendas and so closely woven into your surroundings.
Thank you, Julia! That means so much to me.
Well done, Lou. I empathize and appreciate the dark-ish humor.
Only way to cope, I think! Thanks, Jesse.
Lou, I’ve had seasons like this as well. The only way I can stay in the game is to repeat my motto “I’m one hour closer to my next bird.”
On from feathers to fins… all tiding me over until fur!
Feel my season slipping into reverie, Sisyphean, transcending. No birds, again — but left the woods happy.”
Very interesting journey! I felt like I was there with you!
Thanks, Eli! Next year maybe you will be!!
nothing a little retail therapy at Michael's can't fix!
Going to get a shadow box for my busted expandable broadhead.
Your focus during these hunts is inspirational! If nothing else, there is clarity to be gained from this type of pursuit. Really enjoy how you relate the experiences!
Thanks, Erik! Season felt like a slog, but I definitely learned a lot — and I guess that counts for something.
It absolutely does!
I was riveted (like Julia!)--like reading a story and convincing yourself there WILL be a happy ending if you just keep reading. But only happy ending is for the birds that got away--seems like all of them actually did. There is a reason patience is a virtue. Next season...
I love you!
Indeed this was a lesson in patience!
"released an arrow. Feathers and commotion and — he ran off, unphased, taking hens with him. Left wishing I could have those few minutes back." These are the moments that are painfully satisfying in the best way to reflect on. Great stuff Lou.
Painfully satisfying is exactly right… a catharsis that stings!