Deer Passion

Weekend Blessings

2012-02-01T13:54:00.000-06:00

One of the hardest parts about working full-time in the ag industry is that it leaves little room for your traditional 8-5 hours. Many times the hours are crazy and you spend most of the weekend working anyway. It's so hard to find the time to fit in your hobbies and passions, especially if they are outdoor related. (It is pretty hard to hunt in the dark!) Family time around our home is so rare and so precious that we never take a moment for granted. I've been working on an article about ice fishing, so we ventured to one of our local lakes this past weekend. I just happened to catch a gorgeous sunset and some heart-warming photos. Here are my two favorites.... I can't decide which one I like best!

Cheesy Venison Ranch Lasagna

2012-01-16T08:00:00.005-06:00

(I'm a crappy food photographer.)

I first found this recipe on Pinterest and it originally called for chicken. However, having a freezer full of venison this year, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to experiment a little. I tweaked a few things on this recipe but I must say this is easily going to become one of our family favorites. I am not a pasta person, but I truly enjoyed this recipe, and my picky toddler did too!! Give it a try.. You won't be disappointed!!

2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
1 (1 oz) pkg. dry Ranch dressing mix
1 lb. ground venison, browned
1/8 tsp pepper
1 (16oz) lasagna noodles, cooked
1 1/2 to 2 C cheddar cheese, grated
1 1/2 to 2 C mozzarella cheese, grated

Combine evaporated milk and ranch dressing mix and pepper in a 3 quart heavy saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently until dry ingredients are dissolved. Simmer, uncovered, 25 minutes, stirring frequently. Sauce will thicken slightly. Layer half of lasagna noodles, venison, sauce, and cheese in well-greased 9×13 pan. Repeat layers again. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Coyote Hunting in Kansas

2012-01-12T18:23:00.000-06:00

In addition to my regular (or slightly, irregular) blog posts here, I've also agreed to a freelance gig with the KS Department of Tourism and Travel... as their hunting blogger on the TravelKS Blog.

My first post can be found here: Coyote Hunting in Kansas

Be sure to comment and let me know what you think!!

Randolph the Bow-Legged Cowboy

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

So, when I was a young girl my mom and dad started many Christmas traditions with me that I still treasure to this day. One is reading Christmas stories by the glow of the lights on the tree.. Another is my mother's to-die-for party mix... And yet another is listening to Christmas carols on the old record player.. there's just something so touching and beautiful about an old vinyl record spinning out treasured Christmas songs...

Yet, there's one memory that still cracks me up to this day... My dad singing me the song "Randolph, the Bow-Legged Cowboy" to the tune of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." Just for the fun of it, and the memories, I wanted to share it with you, my readers...

Randolph the bow-legged cowboy
Had a very shiny gun
And if you ever saw it
You would even say it glowed

All of the other cowboys
Used to laugh and call him names
They never let poor Randolph
Join in any cowboy games

Then one foggy Saturday night
The Sheriff came to say
Randolph with your gun so bright
Won't you shoot my wife tonight?

Then how the cowboys loved him
And they shouted out with glee
Randolph the bow-legged cowboy
You'll go down in history!!

Wishing each and every one of my readers a holiday season filled with lots of friends, family and love... and many, many blessings!!!

Christmas Wish List

2011-12-19T08:00:00.001-06:00

Since Christmas is just around the corner, I wanted to share some of my wants this year... Nothing I really need, just little things that I want. Lord knows, I've been blessed with an amazing life and beautiful family and friends. Trust me when I say, I thank the Lord everyday for the wonderful gifts he's given me. Now, though, on to the fun things...

1) Cabela's MT050® Whitetail Extreme™ Scent-Lok® Bibs – Regular

I actually purchased the matching jacket (shown here) in the Vertigo Grey camo pattern this fall. Let's just say that I was more than impressed with the quality and the camo pattern itself. I probably should have purchased the bibs at the same time, but you know how you always can talk yourself out of something that you don't really need? Well, it's Christmas.. so I'm putting it on my list to Santa. If you haven't heard much about the new Vertigo camo patterns I highly recommend checking them out at here at the Vertigo Camo website.

Disclaimer: They aren't paying me to say nice things - they don't even know that I exist. However, I still really like the camo and want my readers to check it out!!

2) A new ground blind. This one from Primos looks like it could definitely do the trick. The one that I received for my birthday/anniversary earlier this year was stolen this fall. I used it all of one time to go turkey hunting and had it set up this fall for deer hunting on some of our property near the Arkansas river. Needless to say, I was more than disappointed when I found it gone. Anyway, I'm on the search for a new ground blind.. and already looking forward to spring turkey season in Kansas!

3) Aviator Sunglasses... specifically these from Costa del Mar. Actually, I totally fell in love with these after I saw them on A Reel Lady's winter wishlist. She was spot on for recommending these! These are fun and functional, and polarized for fishing or water sports this summer.

4) Buck and Forth Ring from Modcloth. I almost consider this a must-have for any woman or girl that loves hunting and loves fashion. This definitely has an art-deco, vintage look with bohemian overtones. I'm in love. This ring will serve as a flashy, reminder of my love of deer hunting during the rest of winter's frigid months, and it will also complete the look for many care-free bohemian outfits this summer. This buck ring is nothing but fun and funky - just like me! :)

5) Last, but not least.. this stylish, comfy, functional black and camo fleece jacket from Legendary Whitetails! This just looks like something I could curl up in on a cold, snowy day while watching movies with the family or just reading a good book. Plus, the camo side panels will make it that much more flattering on a woman's figure!!

Well, that's just about everything that was on my list to Santa this year... He'll probably bring me socks, though. That seems to be his old standby gift. The worst part is, they're usually well needed!!!

What's on your wish list this year?

Girl Hunter by Georgia Pellegrini

2011-12-12T08:00:00.004-06:00

Not too long ago, I was contacted by someone from Georgia Pellegrini's staff, about a new book titled Girl Hunter: Revolutionizing the Way We Eat, One Hunt at a Time. Basically they would provide a rough (not final) copy of the book and a recipe or two that I could share with my readers. Knowing many other bloggers, and as word has spread, I have a feeling that you'll be seeing numerous reviews around the blogosphere this week.

First of all, Georgia Pellegrini wasn't raised hunting, in fact her background and life had little to no preparation on the steps she would take to become a huntress. As the story goes, several events in her life intrigued her enough to start the journey on what would eventually make her a "Girl Hunter" and an author.

Coming from an agricultural community and hunting my entire life, this book is interesting, to say the least.. and there are several parts of her journey and reflections that spoke to my heart. Other parts, well... if nothing else, I would encourage you to read it for yourself. Not only would it make a wonderful Christmas present for friends and family, it's also a book that gives you several considerations for reflecting on your own journey as a hunter or huntress.

Meanwhile, as prompted several times by her Marketing Manager, here's a recipe from her book that sounds absolutely delish!! Enjoy!!

Buttermilk Fried Rabbit
Serves 4

1 young cottontail rabbit, cut into serving pieces
2 cups buttermilk
1 medium-size onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried tarragon, or 1 teaspoon each of your three favorite dried herbs
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon cayenne
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper
2 to 3 cups grape seed or vegetable oil

1) Soak the rabbit overnight in the buttermilk, along with the onion, garlic, herbs, paprika, and 1 teaspoon of the cayenne.

2) Drain in colander, leaving some herbs on the rabbit. In a large resealable plastic bag or in a large bowl, mix the flour with the garlic and onion powder and remaining 2 teaspoons of cayenne, as well as a pinch of salt and pepper. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until a pinch of flour starts to sizzle when dropped in the hot oil, but not so hot as for the oil to be smoking.

3) Place the rabbit pieces in the bag with the flour mixture and shake until thoroughly coated. Do this in small batches, dredging just enough rabbit to fit in the pan at one time.

4) Add the rabbit to the skillet and fry on one side for about 10 minutes, until golden brown, then use tongs to turn the pieces over and fry for another 10 minutes, again until golden brown. Be careful to keep the oil hot enough to fry the rabbit, but not so much that it burns.

5) Remove the rabbit from the skillet and place it on a wire rack over paper towels. Season immediately with salt and pepper to taste, to help preserve the crispiness for the table. This is good served immediately or also good cold for lunch the next day.

Deer Season 2011

2011-12-09T08:00:00.005-06:00

Last time I checked most of you had been in the field, hunting it up.. posting photos and stories of your deer hunting adventures. Well, here's a quick update on my season:

Rifle season in Kansas opened on November 30th. I did spend opening day in a blind and was greeted with 20+ does on opening morning. I almost wish I had been on a photography hunt rather than a real hunt that day, as many came within feet of the blind.. you could see their breath on the cold, crisp morning air and the white frost on their backs. Those special intimate encounters are what makes hunting my passion. It's those moments where you become one with nature, a quiet observer and integral part of all things wild.

The next few days I spent in long meetings at work, which turned out to be the best due to frigid temps and the changing movements of the deer. Saturday night, though, I had the opportunity to get out to my favorite hunting spot. The temperatures were suprisingly mild after the extremely cold week, but as the sun set and the temperatures began to dip, the deer started to move. The first and only buck we saw that night was a beautiful 8 point. I saw his antlers first, a lighter white than the dark brown tree limbs, slowly walking along the top of an old river ledge, well-hidden in the trees. Before he even stepped out of the timber I readied my rifle and prepared for that vital moment of action that makes a hunt truly successful.

He actually walked down the small embankment where we lost sight of him for a few seconds. As he came back over that ledge, he stopped, his body tense, and at full attention.. with his head held high, he looked absolutely majestic. It was an absolutely beautiful, awe-inspiring moment... and it was at the moment, from about 40 yards away with a head-on lung shot that my 2011 deer season had ended. Successfully.

Here's the only photo from the night... as dusk was setting in so there wasn't much opportunity for good field photos.

Fall in Kansas

2011-11-02T21:24:00.002-05:00

Tonight I was informed by my father that I had not posted anything new since June 24th. Actually, I kind of thought it would have been longer between posts by now. Just for the fun of it, though, I'm posting a couple of my favorite photos that I took this fall! We've had a gorgeous fall and I'm glad I got to spend quite a few evenings outside enjoying the changing colors and beautiful temps! As of tonight, it's currently 32 degrees, and flurries and ice have been falling all day! I think winter has arrived a little early...

How has the fall weather been in your neck of the woods? ...and, most importantly, has your deer season been going?

Discovery

2011-06-24T14:59:00.000-05:00

One of the amazing joys of having a child is watching them explore and learn and discover everything that the world around them has to offer. One Saturday evening we headed toward our favorite (deer hunting) spot on the Arkansas (pronounced ar-Kansas, when in Kansas) river. With an abundance of trees and sand and many, many rocks, the new discoveries for my daughter were endless!

I took my camera along to capture some of those new and exciting moments, but as technology often does, it failed me. It locked up several times (probably from being dropped too often... oops!) and eventually the battery died. However, I got a couple of photos that just make my heart skip a beat.. because despite the day to day monotony sometimes, I am so very blessed...

Only Change is Certain

2011-05-19T18:11:00.000-05:00

After the loss of one of our dogs in March, I swore to myself that we would stay a one dog house. Our english pointer, named Suzy, is older, kinda lazy, a little boring and perfectly quiet. She does her best to please, is always at my side and doesn't tear up the baby toys or dig in the trash while we're gone. In fact, she's the perfect dog.

But sometimes the house is too quiet and too clean..

I debated for a long time about the decision to add another body to our house. I didn't really want to housebreak a new dog. I didn't know if I could keep my sanity with a baby and a puppy in the house. Most importantly, though, I struggled with the thought of replacing Izzy. In fact, I'm still struggling with that thought. But that's part of life... moving on. Besides the whole dog scenario, my entire life seems to be transitioning.. some things for the good, some for the bad.. and some things are completely uncertain. The uncertainty is what led me to start looking for a new puppy to add to our home. Only change is certain.. and what better way to replace uncertainty than with a house full of craziness and lots and lots of love...

So with that said.. I'd like to introduce you to Bella...

Life Lessons I've Learned From My Hunting Dog

2011-05-12T13:31:00.000-05:00

1) NEVER stop playing.

2) WAG more, BARK less.

3) Be LOYAL and FAITHFUL.

4) Be QUICK to FORGIVE.

5) LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY.

Unlikely Friendships

2011-04-25T08:40:00.000-05:00

While I know this blog originally started out as a hunting blog it has slowly become a blog of connection - why we hunt, our connection to nature, to each other and absolutely everything in between. After the loss of my little dog Izzy (which you can read about here), I was deeply touched by the number of people who reached out and offered their support and their stories of pets who have come and gone and touched lives in the process. All of this really touched my heart and got me to thinking about our connection with other animals. We can hunt, we can kill.. but there's an innate bond that can exist between different creatures when survival isn't an issue.

Of course there's the obvious dog and cat pet connection. Almost everyone has had a cute furry animal as a pet or a side kick. Many people argue that we use pets as a way to fill a void in our lives. We make them dependents, we nurture them and they're here strictly for our enjoyment - to look, touch, and show off. Yet the strange thing about pets is that they do have the ability to enter into a bilateral relationship. They invest their trust and care and affection in their human companions. Anyone who disagrees can obviously look at how dogs and cats respond when they become deprived of companionship with their owners. Some will quit eating, become anxious and some just simply become depressed.

Recently there's been an onslaught of cute animal videos hitting the news channels. One of my favorites is of this man and goose who became instant friends while the man was visiting a park one day. You can watch the video... but to sum it up, this goose started following the man everywhere, becoming protective and even flying after him when he decided to head home from the park. The male goose even looks forward to his daily visit, waiting on the curbside for him to arrive. Some people will argue that geese are just as protective and territorial as most dogs (even more so somtimes) and they become just as trusting, even loving. The interesting question is why did this goose choose this person to interact with? Perfect timing? Familiarity (the man visited the park often)? Or simply an inherent attraction of two different creatures to fill a void within one another?

Now on to my favorite animal bonding story of the season... A deer protecting a female goose and her nest at a cemetery. Granted this story has been told a thousand times over.. but it's such a darn tearjerker. You can watch a clip here... but to summarize, a deer was found to be protecting a female goose and her nest, even becoming protective and standing between the nest and humans that appeared to be too curious of the situation. As many outdoorsmen know, geese mate for life. In this situation it appears that the male goose is nowhere around, so the deer stepped in to help protect and watch over the nest. Why, how and when is completely uncertain. The fact that they're totally different creatures and have no form of communication is what seems to draw us in to the story.. it also steals our hearts.

The funny thing is these stories really aren't that unusual, it happens all the time. I think the reason that we find them so interesting and thought-provoking is simply because we don't understand it. All the science in the world cannot tell us why different animals can sense a need and actually fill that void in a completely different animal. Secretly, I like that thought. I like that there are things we can't understand and never will. God created this earth and its creatures in a template and a time that we can never comprehend. In the meantime though, there's no reason not to revel in the power and beauty of the natural world around us.

For more beautiful interspecies bonding examples.. click here.

Love

2011-04-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities;

the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,

and by his wounds we are healed ~ Isaiah 53:5 NIV

Intimacy Between the Hunter and the Hunted (Repost)

2011-04-07T10:15:00.000-05:00

Note: I originally posted this in February 2009, but it's something I've been thinking about again. Before I post something new and additional I thought I'd repost this to get myself and my readers back on track to what this blog can and should be.

I’ve recently been in contact with someone from the anti-hunting community who expressed a curiosity in the mindset of hunters regarding the emotional aspects of hunting. I think most of my fellow outdoor sportsmen and women would agree that the emotional aspects of hunting is multi-faceted, but I want to try and touch on a few strong points today about the intimacy a hunter feels with the natural world.

As I stated a few days ago in my Affirmation post, I hunt because I love. I love the natural world with a level of respect and admiration that all the words in the dictionary could never adequately express. Effective conservation is based on hunting, it is a form of population management that helps keep deer/bird/fish populations at the desired level for compatible existence with our human race. All things in the natural world will eventually achieve its own natural balance, and hunting plays a role in controlling starvation and diseases among animal populations. It gives biologists a heads up and a head start on research to help protect the human race from the wildlife, whose land we are encroaching upon, by keeping tight control on diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease and keeping animals like deer off major highways and interstates, and keeping animals like mountain lions and bears from becoming frustrated and making themselves a threat to those who build houses where they once thrived.

Intimacy between the hunter and the hunted is, in my opinion, one of life’s most precious gifts. Though many people experience the outdoors and wildlife through hiking, gardening, photography, etc, it is often times the hunters who experience once in a lifetime events. Just this past season I saw a sunrise that will be engrained in my memory forever: a beautiful red, orange and pink light with the sun placed just perfectly between the clouds to create shadows across the expansive sky that no artist could ever recreate. I had a yearling doe, and a spike buck walk within 10 yards of me, while I was sitting on the ground, small and unthreatening to them. I could see the frost on their noses, the clouds of their warm breath against the crisp, cold air and their muscles twitching with extreme attentiveness to their surroundings. The 8 point buck that I took home to the freezer scared me half to death. I only knew he was there when he snorted only 15 yards behind me. Then he walked out into the golden rays of the setting sun and stood as the majestic king of the Kansas plains. Very few non-hunters that I know have ever experienced wildlife this up close and personal, with this extreme amount of intimacy.

One thing that came up during my conversation with this non-hunter was the example of a bird that had been wounded by teenage boys using it for target practice. It was later euthanized. Myself, and most of the hunters that I know, condemn the unnecessary torture or wounding of animals for sport or entertainment. Most of us take the act of hunting seriously, with deep respect for the animals that we take. Last month I wrote a post about why it is essential to our sport to make well placed shots and stay focused on accuracy and good performance. Not too long ago I shot a deer late in the evening and had to wait until the next morning to track it. I didn’t sleep a wink that night, and it tore me upside down and inside out with the possibility that I may never find it. Part of those emotions came from being a young woman driven for success, and the other part of simply being a conscientious member of the natural world. Another similar view can be found in Othmar Vohringer’s recent post denouncing the creation of hunting as a spectator sport. Because hunting is anything but a spectator sport, it’s a sport based on necessity, intimacy and love of the environment.

Another point that was expressed during my recent conversation was this person’s background of growing up in an agricultural society, surrounded by slaughter. This point is a very personal point for me. I grew up in an agricultural society, with ranching and farming, and I grew up surrounded by a family that hunted. One thing that I will not tolerate is self-indulged ignorance. Agricultural production is the means by which the inhabitants of our society lives and thrives. A few years ago I nursed a calf, whose mother died, and bottle fed her every morning and night. Yes, it was cute. Yes, it was fun. Yes, I treated her like a pet. And, I can guarantee that someone has probably had her for dinner. One thing that few non-agricultural people realize is how humanely the cows that are slaughtered for food are treated. The farmers and ranchers who spend their lives working with those cows have missed family get-togethers and their children’s sporting events to feed the cows that feed us. They spend Christmas Eve evening and Christmas morning in a tractor, making sure those cows have food and water, while other families are asleep in bed or tearing into the presents around the tree. Most of those farmers and ranchers have taken a newborn calf inside their own home to warm them by the fireplace until it could walk and survive. Life is cyclical. All living things are born, and all of those living things eventually die. There are no other options. For a similar viewpoint, check out Arthur’s post about the naivity of food. I think you will find his sentiments echo mine. Most hunters eat what they kill and those that don’t often give it away. One of my very first posts was about the necessity of hunting to provide food for my family and of organizations like Hunters for the Hungry helping to provide meat to needy families. Hunting is survival.

Another point that I found extremely interesting was the focus of this person’s life to educate students about being humane. Many hunters around the outdoor blogging community play a large part in the education of today’s young. Many bloggers started hunting because it was a family tradition, and many hunters are working hard to carry on those traditions. The men at SimplyOutdoors talk often of their children, of sharing their experiences with them, and doing everything in their power to make sure they appreciate and respect the outdoors. Jody, from The Hunters Wife, is making preparations for Wish to Fish Clinics – clinics that are specifically focused on educating the younger generations about fish, their environment, and how to be respectful advocates of the natural world. My blogging friends are numerous, and I could walk down the blogroll at the right of this page and find an example from each one of those bloggers about how they are working to educate others, and how the outdoors is an integral, intimate part of their life.

So, is there intimacy between the hunter and the hunted? Yes, and it is usually that driving force that keeps hunters attached and immersed in the natural world that they love. Hunters (and farmers and ranchers) have a respect for life and death that few people today have, and that respect comes almost solely from their first-hand, up close, intimate experiences.

Smile!! It's Friday!!!

2011-03-25T09:22:00.000-05:00

Here's hoping everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!

Saying Goodbye to a Furry Friend

2011-03-24T16:26:00.000-05:00

Early this morning I had to say a final goodbye to one of my furry, four-legged babies – a beautiful miniature dachshund named Izzy. (Just her name makes me smile!) Since the day we picked her up, that dog has been a pain in my ass. She had to be constantly cuddled, always in the middle of everything, and I know for a fact that my neighbors wondered why I yelled at a deaf dog, when in fact she just had selective hearing like the rest of my family. She often climbed on the dining room table, dug through the trash and tore up baby bottles and toys – she also stole everyone’s heart.

Most people think of miniature dachshunds as lazy house dogs that bark too much. However, they were originally bred to hunt badgers, rabbits and other burrowing animals. Living in the country, she became the little dog that could. Our pointer and Izzy would tag team rabbits like no one had ever seen... to the point that the rabbits were almost extinct around our house. I can’t count the number of times she came home, covered from head to tail in dried mud, thousands of scratches from getting into scrapes with animals much larger than her miniature 13 lb frame. Her spirit was always bigger than her body, even up until the very end.

I came home from work Wednesday evening to find the lower half of her body paralyzed. We were initially sent to a special emergency vet clinic about an hour from home. Eventually we ended up in Manhattan, KS at the KSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, where after several hours and multiple examinations, we had no choice but to put an end to her misery.

The hardest part for me is that my 13 month old daughter and this dog have been practically inseparable. Emma would scream at her, chase her, pull her ears, lay on top of her and Izzy would eat it up and beg for more. One of my last photos is of the two of them on the living room floor, cuddled on a big pillow, watching cartoons together. For my own selfish reasons, I’m thankful Emma is only 13 months old. I can’t fathom trying to explain the situation to her. I’m having a hard enough time keeping my composure as I type this.

We arrived home around 4:00 this morning, slightly numb from how quickly everything happened. Despite every effort and the best intentions, the journey of life takes paths that we aren’t always ready to travel. For those that know me more intimately, our family has had more than our share of those hard-to-travel paths in the last few months, but there is ultimately a reason why things happen when they do. On the drive home, we experienced one of the most beautiful falling stars… bright, explosive and awe-inspiring. A simple reminder that we’re never truly alone, and even in some of our darkest hours, beauty and love still exist.

Happy Birthdays

2011-03-22T23:18:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday I celebrated another birthday.. another year gone by.. and I realized.. I am so darn old.

Gravity is starting to take effect.. wrinkles are multiplying.. My body creaks and pops when I get out of bed too fast...

However, one of the great things about getting older is you get cool stuff... Like this:

Cause what girl wouldn't love a ground blind?

It would actually be totally useful for the upcoming spring turkey season if I wasn't sporting this:

(Don't ask.. it's so embarrasing..)

So until then.. it makes a great place to play hide-and-seek...

(I love this photo - I get this look from my daughter ALOT!

Pretty sure she already knows I'm nuts. )

And it makes a great place to hide from camera-wielding family and friends...

(P.S. How's the font look to ya'll? It's the same thing that I've always used... but it seems kinda small. Could be my failing eyesight tho... )

First Birthday

2011-02-16T13:42:00.000-06:00

As you all know.. the demise of my blog started with the birth of my baby girl. Suddenly my free time was spent changing diapers, making bottles, and playing with my little monster! Despite all the changes in my life, I can't say I would change anything. I feel so blessed, and more fulfilled than I ever thought possible.

I'm not sure where the time went though, because this little bundle of love just celebrated her first birthday!

Deer Season 2010

2010-10-06T07:00:00.011-05:00

Archery season in Kansas has long since opened.. but where has this big, bad hunter been? Not in a tree stand, that's for sure. So following is a list of my excuses...

My husband has been spending long hours away from home doing this:

While he's been playing in the dirt, I've been chasing this around the house:

I wouldn't trade it for the world though, because then I get to see this:

And, I'm loving every second!!

Happy hunting!!

Summer Storm

2010-09-21T12:58:00.000-05:00

Aftermath of a Storm

2010-08-16T13:15:00.000-05:00

Corn Fields of Kansas

2010-08-03T16:59:00.000-05:00

The beauty of this world never ceases to amaze me.

I captured these images a couple of weeks ago on a hot and humid Saturday night. This is why I love Kansas - the beauty is never-ending and the views are priceless. Looking at those wide open fields, and the ripening corn, I'm starting to get excited for deer season. How about you? Are you getting ready for fall or desperately hanging on to the last threads of summer?

Yo-Yo's for Troops

2010-07-27T14:40:00.000-05:00

One of my fellow bloggers, Albert Rasch, from The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles never seems to disappoint his readers or those around him. Currently residing in Afghanistan, he has seen the drudgery and boredom that many of our troops face overseas. Based upon a personal experience of finding a broken yo-yo, he is on a mission to bring smiles, a little bit of hope and alot of fun to our men and women serving overseas, through his cause Yo-Yo's for Troops. It's as simple as donating one or a few yo-yo's, which Albert will personally distribute. What's a couple of dollars worth in exchange for hundreds of smiles? You decide. However, I would encourage you to read more about his cause on his blog The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles.

For Albert's contact information visit his website or email him at theraschoutdoorchronicles@msn.com.

Inspiration for the Day

2010-07-12T11:34:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of The Butterfly Website

Butterflies are like little splashes of heaven...

Little reminders that even when life is cruel, God is good.

Fourth of July

2010-07-03T12:16:00.000-05:00

Wishing all my readers and fellow bloggers a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend!!

Finding a Quality Outfitter

2010-05-22T12:33:00.001-05:00

Recently, a group of locals in our area decided to start an outfitting business, specifically for whitetail deer and turkey hunting. Using the famous networking sites, like facebook and twitter, they are growing quite popular in the online world of hunting. A major concern for the rest of the local population is that these online followers and new clients know absolutely nothing of this specific group of individuals. This is a concern because these individuals are known for hunting out of season, trespassing, and about every other unethical thing. So how, as an individual, can you guarantee that a guided hunt is everything that you want? How can you guarantee that not only the hunt will be successful, but that you'll be satisfied with your outfitter, the accomodations, and all the extras?

For answers to these questions, I went to the experts. Specifically Cory Glauner with Outdoors International, a booking agency that tries to provide individuals with the hunts and adventures of their dreams. I explained the situation to Cory, and asked that he help shed light on how an individual can find a quality outfitter and the business and benefits of using a booking agency. Here are some of my concerns and questions, and the exceptional advice from Cory Glauner:

What is Outdoors International?

Outdoors International is a booking agency for hunting and fishing outfitters. We are currently moving into other outdoor "adventures" such as white water rafting, climbing etc. We thoroughly investigate references and confirm the credibility of each and every one of our Outfitters. In most cases we have experienced their services ourselves. We do the research so your clients don't have to. Our clients tell us what type of trip they are looking for and we do our best to match them up with the outfitter/outfitters that best meet their needs. If a client talks directly to an outfitter, they are being "sold" on that particular trip. We sell them on the trip that fits their needs best. Once an outfitter is chosen, we put the client in direct contact with them so they can "interview" them and ask specific questions. Most booking agents won't do this because they don't trust their outfitters to pay them their commission. We figure if we can't trust each other, then we shouldn't be doing business. Our clients will never pay more for a trip by using our service because we are not paid by the client, we're paid by the Outfitter.

We also offer an additional perk to our Outfitters in that we allow them to act as agents within our network. For example if I am a Pheasant hunting outfitter in South Dakota and I have a group of hunters that are looking for an Alaska fishing trip, I can book them with another Outdoors International Outfitter and receive a portion of the commission.

What do you look for in a quality Outfitter?

Many Outfitters offer a variety of services/trips. We ask them to tell us what they are best at. What their focus is. We want to send our clients only on those trips. We try to get a good feel for their character, honesty, quality and quantity of game, accommodations, people skills, organization, food and difficulty of the trip. We try our best, but it's hard to know for sure until we actually experience a trip with them.

Is there an approval process or set of guidelines that Outfitters must meet before you use them?

Once we decide whether they are a fit or not, the first thing we do is ask for references from both successful and unsuccessful past clients. We do the due diligence to contact those clients and ask them about their experience with the Outfitter. Whenever possible we try to go personally on the trip ourselves as well. This not only allows us to "test them out," but also gives the information we need to send our clients on a quality trip.

For Outdoors International, post-trip client testimonials play a huge part in maintaining quality control. Sometimes outfitters have bad trips. They have a tough job and the only thing they can control is lodging and food. Everything else is pretty much out of their control, so a few bad reviews are understandable and expected. However, if an outfitter gets too many bad reviews, or is dishonest in any way with us, we will remove them from our directory. We recently had a great Outfitter whose area has been impacted by wolves and after a number of complaints from clients, we had to remove them. It was tough because he is a good friend of mine, but we can't send our clients to a bad area.

Do you use recommendations or references before using Outfitter?

Yes. References are not TOTALLY reliable as they are hand-picked by the Outfitter, but we take them into consideration.

What questions or topics should one consider before booking an Outfitter, to help ensure a quality experience?

I know I'm biased, but I think that the services of a good Booking Agent are priceless. It doesn't cost you anything for one thing, but the most important thing is that you are dealing with a third party that has no interest in which trip you choose.

Many sportsmen choose an outfitter based on experiences of a friend or information given directly by the guide/outfitter. While this information is valuable, and should play into the final decision, it may not be enough to guarantee a quality experience. Outfitters are always going to tell you what you want to hear and send you references that will stack the odds in their favor.

A booking agent has a number of outfitters to choose from and can match your needs to the outfitter, consulting with you along the way. A booking agent wants you to continue to book future hunting and fishing trips, so they will present you with many options to choose from. They are also able to track an outfitters performance over a period of time with a number of different clients. A guide is also less likely to compromise an agent's client because a good booking agent represents a significant amount of business to them, so there is an added value of safety in booking through an established booking agency.

In order for a booking agent to stay in business for long, they need to make sure that the outfitters they work with are top notch. This is accomplished by personally visiting or sending an employee to hunt or fish with each outfitter or guide. At the very least, they should be getting references from trusted sources.

How do I choose a good booking agent?

This is the hard part where you will have to do your homework. There are a lot of booking agents out there, and just as in any industry, there are good ones and there are bad ones. The bad ones get weeded out pretty quickly, but they're out there so choose wisely. I recommend calling potential booking agents and interviewing them about what you are looking for and ask about their experience not only as a booking agent, but in the outdoor industry as a whole. If you are an archery hunter, make sure that your booking agent understands your specific needs. Even better, he should be an archer as well. Your agent should be a walking book of hunting and/or fishing information.

Here at Outdoors International, we have a number of booking agents with different skills, knowledge, experiences and interests. We'll try to steer you towards someone we think will be a match for you.

Does it cost more to use a booking agent?

Advice from a booking agent should always be free. Booking agents are paid through commissions from the outfitters they represent. You pay the same amount for a trip whether you book through your agent or directly through the outfitter.

Why do outfitters use booking agents?

Outfitters and guides are busy, and tend to be hard-working people. Due to the nature of their business, it is hard for them to spend much time and energy on marketing. Through relationships with booking agents, they are able to spend less on advertising, sometimes cutting it altogether. It makes more sense to pay a performance-based commission to a booking agent than to spend thousands on a show and hope to sell some hunts. Booking agents allow outfitters to do what they do best.

For more information on Outdoors International, or to contact Cory personally, visit their website here.

Best Friends

2010-04-22T15:41:00.000-05:00

I know I've posted before about how four-legged creatures can turn into your best friends. Suzy, a pointer, not only loves to hunt but she's become an irreplaceable member of our family. As my pregnancy came to a close, and I started having some complications and not feeling well, she started laying by our bedroom door or on the floor on my side of the bed. Granted, we did have some mishaps - I did step on her a few times in the middle of the night, and she did wake me with her snoring - but there's something extremely special about knowing that she's keeping a close eye on me especially when I'm feeling under the weather. I worried at first that she would harbor some jealous feelings, but it's actually been the complete opposite. She now has to know where Emma is at all times. If Emma wakes up for a bottle during the night, Suzy comes and stands by the bedroom door, follows me to the kitchen and into the nursery, all with this "Will you hurry up, already.." look. And from the look of these photos.. I think I may have lost my best four-legged friend. But I can't wait to see how this relationship develops!

Struggling with Sex

2010-04-09T09:00:00.004-05:00

Before some of you freak out, I promise this post is rated PG13.

Sex sells, especially in the hunting/fishing/outdoors industry. We all understand why. There's no lack of advertisements with pretty young women and big boobs, handling a long rod or a cold, shiny revolver. For the most part, I simply don't care. Yet, as I've started my re-entry into the blogging world I've discovered a growing trend. Many new female bloggers seem to be using their looks to enhance their webpages. Photos with a little bit of skin and pouty lips grace their pages, enticing readers to come back for more. Not quite subtle, but quickly gaining a strong following of readers.

I'm not judging, because everyone creates their own personality online. I'm not jealous, because I can't begin to tell you how often I have been asked for risqué photos. What I'm struggling with is the popularity and personality of this blog. Enticing photos create personality, an author that someone can increasingly relate to because readers actually see them as a real, live person. And, if there's any hint of sexuality, that seems to increase popularity twofold.

Then, there's my slightly feminist side - the side that becomes livid when a salesman will only speak to my husband, even though I'm standing right there asking questions. The side of me that gets downright pissy when I haul a deer to a butcher shop and they insist on using my husband's name, not the name on the tag (which would be mine). This side of me yearns for a blog, popular and frequented by experienced outdoorsmen and women , but screams "Why?" when sexuality seems to be the main path for most female bloggers. This is the side of me that limits personal photos and struggles to gain readers through the use of thought, not sexuality.

So there's my struggle - deciding whether to update my online personality to something super cute with lots of photos of my life and family, or stay with the dark background, landscape photos, and boring font and continue to earn followers the hard way.

Comments? Opinions? I know you have them so don't be shy...

Funny Stuff

2010-04-08T12:00:00.003-05:00

Found this through a friend. I don't know the origin, but I thought it was too great not to share!

Networking?

2010-04-07T13:48:00.001-05:00

While I was on my blogging hiatus, one of the easiest ways that I kept in touch with other bloggers and friends is through the use of Facebook. I could keep up on their new posts, family events and their quirky status updates. They could also stay updated on my progress. It wasn't until I returned that I realized how important those small lines of communication can be in your online relationships. Maybe it's just because I can be nosy, but I enjoy learning about the families and lives of people that I have met online. It somehow makes everything more real, and it's alot more enjoyable than black font on a computer screen. So I invite all my readers, new and old to come find me on facebook. This blog is networked through a blog application on Facebook, so you should all be able to find me through the icon at the right side of this post. If you don't currently use Facebook, I would highly encourage you to do so. It's a great way to stay updated with friends and family!

I'm not going to lie, I don't like Twitter. I am trying to use it, though I'm failing miserably. Once you enter the Twitter homepage a whole new world is exposed. They have their own language, like tweets, chirps, re-tweeting, etc. Don't get me wrong, I know the whole problem is in my head. I can't seem to say anything useful or snarky in only 140 characters. There are many fellow bloggers who use Twitter non-stop and have made new friends and lots of business connections. So, in the spirit of not being a quitter, I'm forcing myself to tweet in the hopes that it becomes a lovable habit - like exercise (still working on making that a habit, too). My handle is deerpassion, and you can find a link to my profile at the right side of this post. I hope that my fellow bloggers and readers can find me on there and help me learn my way around the site better.

So what about you? Are you a Facebook fan? A Twitterer/Tweeter? (What's the correct wordage for a person who uses Twitter?) And, what are the benefits that you have found by using such social networking sites?

Happy Easter!!!!!!

2010-04-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

Sleep Deprivation and Hunting

2010-04-01T13:20:00.000-05:00

Sleep is important. It's especially important to me because I'm not getting any with a new baby in the house. However, it's also important when it comes to your daily activities and hobbies, like hunting. Sleep deprivation can be detrimental to your health and the safety of others.

A large number of hunters now hunt mostly for recreation. Many times they spend a week or a long weekend in a hunting lodge or cabin with friends and family. Most times staying up late into the night talking and reminiscing about past hunts, sometimes drinking. I've noticed a growing trend with young hunters partying late into the night and early morning, then hunting the next day on little to no sleep.

Sleep deprivation can cause a variety of short-term problems when hunting:
~ Irritability - you can ask my husband about this!!
~ Clumsiness and impaired cognitive ability - definitely a cause for concern when carrying a loaded firearm.
~ An impaired immune system, meaning you can become more at risk for seasonal colds and the flu.

Long term issues with sleep-deprivation (like many long weekends with hunting/drinking buddies):
~ High blood pressure
~ Heart attack or heart failure
~ Psychiatric problems
~ Increased risk of accidents or mortality.

What to do??? The answer is so simple: get enough SLEEP!! Limit bedtime distractions or take a long midday nap, anything that will provide you with adequate rest.

Benefits of Sleep, when it comes to hunting:
~ Less accidents involving animals - better cognitive ability makes for well-placed shots, and better reaction times.
~ Less accidents involving humans - hunting is a growing sport - let's keep all the members we can!
~ Good Fitness - you'll be able to walk farther, hunt smarter and react faster.
~ Overall Fun - the better your attitude, the more fun you will have. I guarantee it!!

For more information regarding sleep deprivation, visit SleepDex.org

Giveaway at Ben G. Outdoors

2010-03-31T13:25:00.002-05:00

Ben G. Outdoors is a blog devoted to hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventure. They provide industry related interviews, product reviews, tips, and share our outdoor adventures.

The Spring Sling Giveaway is sponsored by Marauder Outdoors will run until Sunday April 11th at 11:59pm. Winners will be posted on the site no later than Tuesday April 13th.

Please stop by Ben G. Outdoors for more details and your chance to win one of two slings from Marauder Outdoors.

Here's the link: http://beng-outdoors.blogspot.com/2010/03/ben-g-outdoors-spring-sling-giveaway.html

Good luck!!

New Arrival

2010-02-25T17:03:00.004-06:00

To all of my loyal readers, I'd like to introduce you to my daughter.

Emma Catherine was born on February 8th at 12:17 pm. She weighed 8 lbs 14.5 oz, and measured 20" long. The first photo was taken shortly after her birth, and the second photo was taken when she was approximately 24 hours old. Her father and I think she's absolutely perfect.

The Adventure that Will Last a Lifetime

2009-09-17T16:15:00.002-05:00

Recently I've been completely negligent and absent from my blog. I miss my blogging friends and readers like crazy. However, I did want to announce that my husband and I are expecting our first child!!! We are extremely excited and can't wait for the remaining 4 1/2 months to fly by. However, in a past post about hunters who face difficult physical challenges, I did mention that I'm also a type 1 diabetic. While many type 1 diabetic women have wonderful, healthy pregnancies and children, it does pose its own set of problems. Besides struggling with the regular symptoms, I'm struggling to keep my body at the most normal it has ever been. Without getting into the medical details, it has taken alot of dedication, consideration, and many many many tears. To put it simply, it has been absolutely terrifying. Because of the high-risk nature of the pregnancy, we've traveled about once a week to see a member of my team of doctors, who all practice several hours from where we live. This has truly been one of the most emotionally and physically challenging moments of my life, so please understand that while I miss blogging it just isn't high on the priority list. Hopefully, before long I'll be able to update with lots of photos and good news, but for now I appreciate knowing that not all of my followers have left me. Thank you blogging friends.

Winner

2009-08-24T08:42:00.004-05:00

The winner of the $100 giftcard from Dick's Sporting Goods is comment #12 - arielmaya

Please email me your name and address so that I can make sure you receive your prize! Congratulations!!

$100 Giftcard Giveaway to Dick's Sporting Goods

2009-08-13T10:29:00.007-05:00

Dick's Sporting Goods has offered the wonderful readers of this blog the opportunity to win a $100 Gift Card! Hubby and I frequent their stores often because of the wide variety of outdoor equipment and apparel. Their stores are not specifically for hunting and fishing - they carry something for every sport and active hobby. They also have a wide range of apparel and shoes for the entire family - I know I could spend hours shopping there! So, here's what you have to do to enter:

~Follow dickssportcmo on Twitter. (This means you do have to have a Twitter account. It is free and I would highly encourage you to join. It's a wonderful networking opportunity!)

~Leave a comment under this post telling me what you would buy with the $100 Gift Card from Dick's Sporting Goods, and why.

~Leave your Twitter ID with your comment (so we can identify you)!! (One entry per person.)

Contest will end on August 20, 2009 at midnight!

For other ways to win from Dick's Sporting Goods, follow on Twitter at dickssportcmo.

***DON'T FORGET TO INCLUDE YOUR TWITTER ID!***

What Do You Dislike About The Outdoors?

2009-08-05T15:34:00.004-05:00

I obviously love the great outdoors - all the creatures, the flowers and trees, the beautiful sky.. everything. And, this blog survives because of other people who love the outdoors. But, is there anything that you really don't like about it? Now, I know that I'm going to get some die-hard, thick-headed comments from people who dare to say they can't dislike anything about the outdoors because even the bad parts make the overall good. Puh-leez. There's plenty of things that the outdoors offers that won't ever make it to the top of your "awesome list."

The first thing that comes to mind for me are snakes. I'm scared to death of snakes - little ones, big ones, ones that rattle. They're creepy and disgusting. I just finished reading Lim, by Hershel Howell (for a copy, talk to Rex) and while it was an interesting and good read (of course!) there was alot mentioned about snakes. In fact, now I'm scared to death to go anywhere down South without some of those thigh-high snake-proof boots!

Of course, snakes bring to mind the creepy-crawlies of the natural world which include spiders and ticks. I can pretty well live with spiders, but not ticks. I go all girly-retarded and scream if I find a tick. I think it's something about knowing that they're sucking the red, life-giving blood from my body. Seriously.. eew.

One of the other major creep-outs for me is the dark. It's not a big problem unless it's early early morning during deer season. Dawn is one of the most breath-taking times of the day and I love everything about it, except for walking alone through a pasture or dense group of trees completely blind. When I was extremely young and first hunted with my father, he mentioned one morning about how the animals could watch our every movement, almost like we were the ones being hunted instead of them. Oh, how I wish I could smack my father for trying to freak me out.. because it worked. I still get the heebie jeebies when I hunt alone in the early mornings.

These are just a few of the things that make me uneasy in the outdoors. I know it makes me sound ridiculously girly, but I also know that there are plenty of men that feel the same way - if only they would admit it. So, for the love of loving the great outdoors, what do you NOT like about it?

Fishing Trip - Day 3

2009-06-26T15:30:00.009-05:00

Since apparently there was absolutely no decent fishing at all, on our third day we decided to have some good old-fashioned fun. We climbed a mountain. Ok, it wasn't that big of a mountain.. but for flatlanders like us, the altitude and steep incline is always somewhat challenging. We started the day at Ruby Mountain near Salida, Colorado. It's a recreational area where you can fish, hike, ride ATVs and more. Now, to most people, it's just a simple mountain. Once you reach the top, though, your senses are delighted with a beautiful view; the river at your feet and the snow-capped mountains in the distance.

It's also a dream come true for many rockhounds. Near the summit one can find garnets of varying sizes and colors. Unlike an actual ruby, a garnet is a semi-precious stone. Usually known for its red color, the colors can range from dark burgundy to bright orange to fire red. The garnet is also the January birthstone and found in almost every fine jewelry store. We found several beautiful garnets - one was even the perfect size for a beautiful solitaire ring. Following is a great example of how a rough garnet looks.

Photo courtesy of Old-Earth.com

While one can find garnets near the top of the mountain, located throughout the rest of the mountain are Apache Tears - small, round, pieces of black obsidian. These are extremely interesting and easy to find, though not highly prized like the garnets. Following is a photo of loose Apache Tears, similar to those that one can find on a hike up Ruby Mountain.

Photo courtesy of PreciousPebbles.com

After our morning hike and garnet search, we also visited a couple of old rock quarries. Rockhounds (like my father) love it, but to the rest of the population it just looks like lots of rocks. Either way, it makes for the opportunity to see some beautiful country. Here's one of the quarries that we visited (I just loved how the sun sparkled off the water!):

By the time we got down hiking up and down various mountains and crawling over insane amounts of rocks, we were ready for a good shower and some good food. Trips like these just prove that even when the weather and mother nature upset our plans for fishing and hunting, there is always joy and beauty in the outdoors. In fact, all it takes is the simple act of opening our eyes.

Fishing Trip - Day 2, Part 2

2009-05-30T08:47:00.006-05:00

After visiting the Royal Gorge, we headed back west to Salida, Colorado, where our family was staying for the weekend. As usual, we all joined together for a big feast at one of the local restaurants. I don't know if the mountain air and high altitude make me more hungry or if they just have better chefs in Colorado, but the food is utterly delicious and one of the best parts of the trip (in my opinion)! After dinner that evening, while driving around not far from our campground, we came upon a herd of elk, grazing in a pasture in the setting sun! It was an appealing view, since we have neither elk nor mountains in Kansas. This was exceptionally fitting, since before I left my friend EcoRover made a comment about saying Hi to the elk and mulies because they should be moving to calving areas. Its funny how even on vacation I still think of my blogging friends! The place where these elk were grazing is a place not far off the beaten path, but still a place rarely traveled. So, it was interesting when I met a woman that night who traveled every evening to watch this group of elk graze. You don't have to be hunting, or fishing, or doing anything to enjoy the outdoors - and this lady exemplified that statment.. she was just simply enjoying the beauty of nature! As the sun moved behind the mountains and we headed home, it just so happened that the tire on my uncle's pickup started hissing - he was getting a flat! He tried to make it to flat ground, but no such luck.. For the next hour or so - the thingy that holds the spare under the pickup didn't work correctly and because the pickup was on an incline they couldn't get a jack underneath it -we had some serious family bonding time... I did my best to help by laughing at their misfortunes, and taking more photos. At least they stopped in a great spot, because this was our last view before night fell.

Fishing Trip - Day 2, Part 1

2009-05-28T08:40:00.009-05:00

Day 2 of our fishing trip started bright and early. We were determined to get in some more fishing time, but when we walked out the door of the camper the river was higher and faster than the night before. We did throw the poles in for a short time, but mainly gave the dogs a chance to run along the river bank. The one thing that I love about these short annual vacations is it's the perfect time to see geese and their goslings along the river. We had a pair of geese that nested on a small island in the river not far from our campground, and at least once a day you would see them floating down the river with the little ones. Then, eventually, you would see them making their way back up the river bank, herding the 3 little goslings along the river's edge and sometimes walking along the bank. The beautiful thing is that even if things don't go as planned, as long as you're outside somewhere, there's always something else to capture your attention. I was lucky enough to capture this goose family on film that second morning.

Since the fishing royally stunk, we decided to head to the Royal Gorge. A family member of mine had never been there so we decided to spend a day acting like tourist. Naturally scenic, it's a great opportunity to see and experience some breathtaking views of that area of Colorado.

Besides being gorgeous, the Royal Gorge also holds claim to the world's highest suspension bridge. You can either walk or drive across the bridge. We chose to walk - on one of the windiest days of the year! Besides being scared of snakes, I'm also pretty well freaked out by heights! This was definitely out of character for me, but the views made it worth challenging myself!

The funniest part about crossing the Royal Gorge bridge was the fact that my two dogs went with us. One is a pointer, who looks more like a dalmation, and the other is a black and white miniature dachshund. The thing about my dogs is that they know no strangers. On that simple walk across the bridge we had more people stop and talk to us, ask us about the dogs, and even had them pose for pictures! They make quite a pair and definitely loved the attention. Here's a photo of them on the bridge, enjoying the popularity!

I know I said there were a bunch of photos that I wanted to share, but it seems that I've got too many from Day 2 of the trip to share in one post. Look for Part 2 tomorrow.

Quote of the Week

2009-05-27T14:34:00.002-05:00

I am comforted by life's stability, by earth's unchangeableness. What has seemed new and frightening assumes its place in the unfolding of knowledge. - Pearl S. Buck

Fishing Trip - Day 1

2009-05-26T08:15:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned before, our trip to Salida, Colorado in early May is an annual one for my family. Besides enjoying the company of family we haven't seen in months, and sometimes years, we have the opportunity to enjoy something that's rare in Kansas - fly fishing. When we arrived our first evening the water was a little high and fast, and murky. Certainly not ideal conditions. In fact, many of the annual anglers in our campground said we'd probably have more fun on the golf course than on the river. In all reality, I think that's where many of them spent most of their afternoons during the next few days.

Since we had arrived late that first evening, we decided to break out the spinner rods instead. With the third or fourth cast, I caught the first brown trout, pictured above. Try as they might, though, no one else had the same good luck. In fact, being the unluckiest person to ever walk the face of this earth, I have to make note that my good fortune probably just had more to do with my superior angling skills. (Wink, wink.) I even made a mental note of the equipment that I used so I could be sure to pass on my tips and tricks. Then I realized that good fishing secrets are only good if they are truly kept secret. (Either that... or after several weeks I finally forgot what my secrets were...)

Anyway, the campground that we stayed at is located right on the river. Literally, we parked our camper within two feet of the river bank. When a person is looking to de-stress and unwind, which I was, there's not much better than listening to the sound of the river lull you to sleep at night. In fact, that first evening as we watched the reflection of the rising moon on the water, and listened to the soft lapping and gurgling of the river, I felt calm for the first time in weeks. The following photo is one of the many views from our campground, taken late in the evening on our first day.

I'm Back!!!!

2009-05-22T07:30:00.000-05:00

Ok, at least I hope I'm back. I know in my last few posts I promised that I'd get back to posting on a more regular schedule. I guess I shouldn't promise things that I can't deliver. My family and I spent a wonderful few days in Colorado enjoying the mountain air and sunshine, and just generally enjoying a few stress-free days. On our return, I started a new job (which I love!) but I've also been fighting some computer issues, making the creation of new blog posts next to impossible. Hopefully, though, the technical issues have been fixed and I can get back to making my rounds through the blogosphere, reading from my favorite bloggers and hopefully finding some new ones!!

The photo above is just one of the breath-taking views that we enjoyed on our short get-away in Colorado. The trip has become an annual one for my family over the years, but every year we learn something or go somewhere new. This year we enjoyed beautiful weather and spent every possible minute outdoors. Of course, I tried to take photos of everything to share with my readers! In the next few posts I'll share more photos of our trip, and hopefully give you some ideas for your next family outing!!

Quote of the Week

2009-05-07T08:30:00.001-05:00

The clearest way into the universe is through a forest wilderness. ~John Muir

Revitalization

2009-05-06T09:00:00.012-05:00

As many of you can tell, I changed my format, again. When I originally started this blog I had absolutely no clue what I was doing, and while I wanted this blog to be hunting specific, it has grown into more of an outdoors blog with a hunting focus. I wouldn't change the pattern of growth for this blog for anything, but I am still struggling to find a format that encompasses the passion and spirit of this blog. So, if any of you have questions or comments or suggestions for the look and feel of this blog, let me know!!

I also wanted to take a moment to mention that my blogging schedule has been whacked lately! I originally blamed everything on tax season (which was over the middle of April) but I'm still going to blame everything on a crazy work schedule and a variety of personal issues. Ugh. I know I'm complaining, but it's all stopping right now. Thursday through Sunday I will spending some time with my crazy extended family in the mountains of Colorado. I'm turning off the cell phone and the computer and will immerse myself in the ultimate joys of life - family, friends, crisp mountain air, natural scenic beauty, and too much laughter. We'll also be camping, hiking and fishing, and I promise I'll have plenty of photos to share with you when I return.

I'm hoping that the new look and feel of this blog will be the start to many good changes this spring! The day after my return I will also start a new job, and I vow to keep a more consistent blogging schedule! Thank you to all my readers who have not forgotten about me, and especially those that have encouraged me to get my rear in gear and keep writing.

Learnin' To Call Turkeys

2009-05-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, in my turkey huntin' post, I mentioned that Jennie used a slate friction call. She's a mean caller, who can making extremely realistic sounds. I was thoroughly impressed, mainly because I'd never put much thought into calling. But, with her skill and how much fun we had, my curiousity got the better of me. The next weekend I picked up my own slate call from a local sporting goods store. Most of the drive home I spent picking through the directions and making noises that sounded like a tortured bird.

By the time I made it home I was sounding scary enough to freak out my two dogs. In fact, the little one still runs and gives me the stink eye when she sees the call come out. I don't care though, because by the next afternoon I had some turkeys returning my calls. I was helping (aka sitting on a bucket playing with my new call) my parents with some chores around their home and pasture, when several turkeys started answering me. It was such an adrenalin rush. I know, I know.. for those of you that do this yearly it's no big deal. But, I never thought I would have the patience to play with a turkey call, much less be able to use it correctly. I know practice makes perfect, and that will be plenty hard considering time seems to be more elusive than ever. Yet, I'm excited to know that maybe next year I won't have to depend on anyone's skills but my own.. maybe. Then again, it's a good excuse to get a friend to go with me.. Who doesn't love company?

So, to all of my turkey hunting readers, what kind of call do you use and how long did it take you to become good at it?

Turkey Huntin'

2009-05-04T14:33:00.007-05:00

A couple of weekends ago, Jennie, my new favorite hunting partner, and I took an evening to try our hand at turkey hunting this spring. It was actually the first time that Jennie and I have ever hunted together, and while we walked away empty-handed we still had a blast! It was a beautiful evening, not too cold or too warm, and of course the wind was blowing, but that's just Kansas and it pretty well died down by sunset.

I'm not much of a turkey hunting person, mainly because ticks and snakes creep me out. Earlier that day I had been shooting my bow and came across a large bull snake which, I kid you not, was going to eat me alive. The only thing that saved me from the snake, was the blood-curdling scream that escaped my lips. Already on edge, I was kindly reminded of the throngs of ticks who would be able to feast upon my skin and blood for dinner. Just the thought of those bloody little things gives me the creepy-crawlies. But, not wanting to damage my big tough girl reputation, I powered through the fear.

Like I mentioned before, it was a beautiful evening and Jennie is a mean turkey caller with a slate friction call. We saw a few hens early on, and were getting excited with our prospects. Jennie was actually disappointed because the birds weren't talking back, but I didn't notice because I was off in happy land looking for a big Tom. It seems, though, that there had been some poaching issues the week before we went out. And, while we were there, a young man in a green sweatshirt and jeans drove up on some neighboring property, got out with a shotgun, and followed the hen turkeys into a tree row. Not wanting to push our luck, we stopped calling and moved to a different location but had the same luck.

So, even though we walked away empty handed, we enjoyed every minute of the evening!! In fact, the photo from the last quote of the week was taken that night, right before we were getting ready to leave. For my first all girl hunting experience, it couldn't have been better... except if we'd seen some more birds. Oh, well.. Even with the ticks, bugs and snakes, I'm ready to go again!!

A Tom, A Deer, and a Good Laugh

2009-04-21T09:02:00.007-05:00

I wanted to share this story from one of our regional newspapers, The Wichita Eagle. It's a story about turkey hunting, wacky wildlife, and the joys and random events that can occur while hunting. Written by Michael Pearce, I hope you outdoor lovers enjoy as much as I did. You can find the original story here.

STAFFORD COUNTY - I've worn a lot of faces in 30 seasons of spring turkey hunting. There have been looks of joy, frustration, anxiety and simple complacency-- sometimes within the same hour.

Had you seen me Wednesday morning, you'd have seen a look of total confusion, surprise and humor.

Seconds before, I'd been supremely confident.

The first gobbles of the morning were sounding as I carved a hiding spot in the brush at the edge of a friend's food plot. It had once been a field of milo, but decimation by deer had the cover all but flattened. A perfect place for hens to peck a little food and toms to strut their stuff.
I placed a decoy of a hen and another of a full-strut tom, with a real tail fan, near my hide at the best corner of the field.

With daylight came a complete concert of turkey talk from the woods to the north and east. Hens were yelping and jakes giving their garbled gobbles. A number of mature toms were gobbling as well. One seemed particularly interested in the high-pitched yelps and cuts of my box call.

I was pretty sure he'd eventually bust from the flock and come to calls. As I waited, I was entertained by a pair of yearling whitetails, no doubt last year's fawns recently kicked out of the nest by a doe readying for fawning later this spring.

Time after time, the young deer would curiously creep closer and closer to my decoys before busting and running to about 80 yards away. There they did the stomps and head-bobs typical for the species.

Meanwhile, gobbles were getting closer and closer and soon a tom stepped into the other end of the food plot. The second it spied the strutting decoy, it gobbled then puffed up to the best of its intimidating ability and headed toward the fake.

The deer watched as it crossed the field. Across the last half of the field, they came like a game of follow the leader. If the tom stopped, the deer stopped. When the tom started walking again, the yearling started walking.

The pair was soon within shotgun range. I held my fire, wanting to see how the tom responded to the decoy. Countless television programs have shown an enraged tom in a full-out assault on a strutting decoy.

I was like a barn cat with a mouse, taking my time, thinking I was in full control and wanting a little enjoyment before I killed dinner.

The tom ended up beak to beak with the fake. The fawn was at the other end, legs and neck stretched out front, as if trying to get a sniff of the decoy's fan.

The tom then pecked the decoy once, twice and on his third peck the decoy rocked a bit and the tom went straight to slice into the perceived enemy with his spurs.

He came down hard on the decoy, which fell over and apparently into the deer. In a split-second, it went from Bambi to a bucking bronco, kicking with both ends, snorting and swirling around and around.

I've spooked a lot of deer in my time, but I've never seen one in such a panic. It hit the decoy again and by that time the tom had lost all interest in a fight and decided to exit the field by running almost straight at me.

A snapshot with a pattern of sixes no larger than a golf ball missed the bird's head and neck and it streaked by at full speed. The last I saw it the tom was kicking it into an even higher gear headed south.

The deer was still snorting as it kicked and ran to the north, where it was out of sight in a few seconds.

I just sat there for a few seconds, decoy laying more than five yards from where I'd put it and the feather fan five yards from it, trying to mentally digest what all had happened. It's not the first time I've had a turkey get away, but it's probably the first time I've responded by laughing out loud.

Quote of the Week

2009-04-20T08:37:00.003-05:00

Kansas Sunset while Turkey Hunting in the Spring

I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in. ~John Muir

Guest Post by Ben G.

2009-04-14T11:39:00.003-05:00

Photo courtesty of FreeFoto.com

Since I've been working long hours and have had minimal time to work on blog posts, my friend Ben, from the Ben G. Outdoors Blog, offered his blogging help. I took him up on his offer, and the following is his post about Why Hunting is the Best.

Why Hunting is the Best

Hunting helps me escape from every thing the world throws at me. It gives me my sanity and piece of mind.

I love the fact hunting is so goal oriented, but at the same time so unpredictable. This makes everyone of my hunts unique no matter how much I plan or scout. Even if my routine is exactly the same every time Mother Nature always changes something, but my goal is always the same to get the deer, grouse, squirrel, pheasant or turkey.

It’s not only just the hunt itself, but all scouting, work (fun), and planning leading up to the hunt. I enjoy the phone conversations with my fellow hunters deciding where, and what time to meet in the morning. Also deciding which gear I should buy, and fitting it in to my hunting budget.
The adrenalin rush I get in the anticipation of the perfect shot is way better then hitting a big jump snow boarding , or even reeling in that giant pike. Don’t get me wrong I still really enjoy snow boarding and fishing, but a guy can only have one obsession.

The time I get to spend with my hunting family is second to only my wife and son. These guys are great we joke and tease each other about any thing and every thing. When it comes down to it thought we are there to help one another out, weather it be tracking a wounded deer, carting the deer out of the woods, spotting a squirrel, finding a down grouse, or any thing one of us needs (I could go on and on). These guys are the best, and make every hunt that much more enjoyable.
Last but not least seeking out new hunting spots and being out in the woods exploring new areas is so much fun. It makes me feel as though I’m a kid again with out a care in the world.

Ben G.

Hunting As Therapy

2009-04-09T21:55:00.001-05:00

With some of the debates around the hunting blogosphere lately, there’s been a lot of talk about ‘normal’ hunters and their abilities. Obviously, our idea of a normal hunter is one that can talk, and shoot, and walk for long distances at a time. Basically the type of person that would easily fit into our traditional view of what a hunter should be. My biggest problem is how to define “normal.” I think often times we overuse that word, because although we are more alike than we are different, it’s our differences that creates an extremely diverse world – one where there really isn’t a standard norm.

One thing that I find most irritating is when I hear someone say, “Oh, you don’t have to worry about that. You’re normal.” When, in fact, that person may be suffering from an illness or a disease that isn’t outwardly visible. In fact, the majority of people struggle with abnormal issues, things like heart disease, multiple sclerosis, depression and post-traumatic stress syndrome. Just because something may not be overly obvious to the naked eye, like a missing limb, or blindness, doesn’t mean that it’s not a challenge for someone. Even at that, people who struggle with similar challenges may not find them as hard or as easy as their fellow counterpart. It’s all about individuality.

The biggest, personal, physical challenge that I face comes in the form of diabetes; type 1 diabetes, to be exact. It’s definitely not a life-threatening disease, though some of the complications from the disease can be life-threatening, but it does create its own set of challenges. Especially with hunting.

I’ve had diabetes since I was a young teenager. I have good days, and I have bad days. The majority of my life, though, has been spent on a pretty strict schedule. I schedule when I eat, when I exercise, and when I take insulin (I now wear an insulin pump). Yet, one of my favorite activities, hunting, is pretty good at destroying my neat, little schedule. For instance, I can’t walk long distances without eating food or using a mathematical formula to change my insulin doses for the extra exercise. If I’m going to skip dinner then I’ll probably have to take a little snack along. Something I’ve learned over the years is nothing gets the attention of deer like the plastic packaging around those cute little peanut butter and cracker sandwiches!

Even with the challenges that hunting can sometimes bring to my diabetic lifestyle, it can also be therapeutic. Whatever form of hunting you prefer, there’s always some physical aspect to it – which means exercise! Exercise is wonderful at using up the extra glucose floating around in my body and helps to keep my blood sugars on a more even keel. Stress is also a major factor in my life right now (with all those long work hours) and my blood sugars readings prove that. I’m struggling, daily to keep the stress at bay and to keep my blood sugars within normal range. When I’m stressed, it’s like the body goes in to freak-out mode and holds on to all the extra sugars instead of using it. When I’m out hunting the stress melts away, my body relaxes and my blood sugars get back on track.

Hunting, for me, is like a physical therapy session without the walls. My body relaxes, regains its composure, and starts working at a better, more “normal” level. Truthfully, though, it’s not just hunting. Simply being outdoors, moving around, fishing, swimming, and relaxing – doing the enjoyable things in life – helps restore my body physically.

Have any of the rest of you found similar physical benefits while hunting or fishing? Does it help the high blood pressure, mood swings, or that ever growing tire around the middle?

Venison Meatloaf

2009-04-08T08:45:00.001-05:00

As many of you already know, I've been working close to 13 hour days at work for the past few weeks as the deadline for federal taxes draws ever nearer.. April 15th is only 7 days away! So if you don't have your taxes done, I would suggest an extension. Working those hours, though, leaves little time for blogging, so I'll concentrate on shorter and fewer posts over the next few days.

Today's post is another recipe. It's extremely easy to make and very plain in taste for the picky eaters in the family (like ME!). Plus, it's an easy dish to double or halve depending on the size of family or company. Hope you enjoy!

2 lbs ground venison
1 1/2 c. soda crackers, rolled
2 eggs, beaten
1/3 cup milk
1/3 cup ketchup
3 T Heinz 57 sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well with hands. Put a piece of foil in casserole dish - with it lapping over the sides. Shape meat loaf to the shape of the dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to one hour. If needed, drain some of the grease off.

Kansas To Vote on Gun Right Amendment

2009-04-06T08:47:00.005-05:00

Normally, I don't talk gun rights on this blog, but I have recently learned something about gun rights in Kansas that I thought was interesting. Most of the citizens of Kansas believed that they already had an individual right to gun ownership. However, Kansas legislation considers gun ownership a collective right, not an individual right; meaning that Kansas citizens have the right to own and use a firearm for defense of the "people" - a collective term that invokes support for a militia. The legislation that is being discussed will change the collective right to an individual right, stating that "a person has the right to keep and bear arms for the defense of self, family, home and state, for lawful hunting and recreational use, and for any other lawful purpose." It's a small issue, but one that most Kansans feel is extremely important. With the increasing stance against gun rights in the federal legislative branches, the majority of Kansans feel that this will help protect their rights should the federal government decide that the 2nd amendment does not protect an individual's right to keep and bear arms.

I had always assumed that Kansas considered gun ownership to be an individual right so I was surprised when this issue came up. So today I wanted to ask my readers: Do you know (without just assuming) whether your state considers gun ownership a collective or an individual right? And is this issue important to you?

Sources of information: The Wichita Eagle, The Kansas City Star

Quote of the Week

2009-04-03T00:25:00.002-05:00

Photo courtesy of Native Hunt

Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. ~Rachel Carson

Time For a New Poll

2009-04-02T08:55:00.002-05:00

Last month I decided I wanted to get a better idea of my reader base so I put up a poll and asked my readers what their favorite hunting season was. Most of the readers (40%) picked deer as their favorite season. That's probably a good thing since the blog is titled Deer Passion. However, 18% of readers prefer Elk, the king of the mountains, and 15% would rather be fishing. The rest of the readers were pretty evenly split between upland bird hunting, waterfowl hunting, other big game, and just plain other hunting.

The next poll is just a fun one. Since I do enjoy shopping as much as the next stereotypical woman, that's what the next poll is about: What is your favorite store for hunting/fishing clothes and accessories. The poll and answers are on the right-hand side of the page.

Thanks for participating!

You Know You're From Kansas When...

2009-03-31T09:51:00.004-05:00

(Something fun that so adequately describes life in western Kansas...)

1. You no longer associate bridges or rivers with water.
2. You have never met any celebrities.
3. You know the meaning of Rock Chalk Jayhawk.
4. Your closest neighbor is more than a mile away and you can still see him from your front porch.
5. You can properly pronounce Salina, Basehor, Cimarron, Schoenchen, Kechi, Olathe, Neodesha and Osawatomie.
6. Going on vacation means going to Hutch to the State Fair.
7. A traffic jam involves two cars staring each other down at a four-way stop, each determined to be the most polite and let the other go first.
8. A Mercedes Benz is not a status symbol. A four-wheel drive pick-up is. (Except in Johnson County)
9. You discover that in July it takes only 2 fingers to drive your car.
10. You wave to all the oncoming traffic.
11. You have owned at least one belt buckle bigger than your fist.
12. You think people who complain about the wind and weather in their states are SISSIES!
13. You are not surprised to find movie rentals, ammunition and bait all in the same store.
14. You know that the true value of a parking space is not determined by the distance to the door but by the availability of shade.
15. You have been asked, "Where is Toto" more than once.
16. You had at least one summer job that was bucking bales or custom cutting.
17. The only tourists you see are on the way to Colorado.
18. You learned how to shoot a gun before you learned to multiply.
19. The number of the Co-op is on speed dial.
20. Your school classes have been cancelled because of the cold.
21. Traffic congestion is ten cars waiting to pass a combine on the highway.
22. You have had to switch from heat to A/C in the same day.
23. You know everything goes better with Ranch.
24. Your school classes have been canceled because of the heat.
25. You can make instant sun tea
26. In August, you break a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:00 a.m.
27. You instantly know someone is from Johnson County when they call everything west of Topeka "Western" Kansas.
28. A tornado warning siren is your signal to go out in the yard and look for a funnel.
29. You know the real way to pronounce the name of Clinton's state and the river. arKANSAS.
30. You think the opening day of deer season is a state holiday.
31. The opening day of pheasant season is a national holiday.
32. You measure distance in hours.
33. You know several people who have hit more than one deer.
34. You see people wearing hunting clothes at social events.
35. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked.
36. You think of the major food groups as beer, beef and beans.
37. Your first driving lessons were in a hay field, picking up bales.
38. You design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit.
39. You know the 4 seasons as: summer, road construction, still summer, winter.
40. It takes you 3 hours to go to the store for one item even when you're in a rush because you have to stop and talk to everyone in town.
41. You lock the doors to your truck but leave the windows rolled down.
42.It's a bottle or a can of pop here. Soda is something you bake a cake with.
43. You feel safe leaving you truck running while you go in the gas station
.44. You had at least one field trip in grade school that went to a dairy farm or one room school house.
45. FINALLY..... you are 100% Kansan if........... You actually understand these jokes.

10 CWD Deer Found in Kansas

2009-03-30T08:48:00.004-05:00

During the 2008 hunting season in Kansas, 2,693 tissue samples were collected from harvested animals. 9 of those samples were from elk, none of which were found to have Chronic Wasting Disease. Of the samples collected from deer, 10 were found to be afflicted with the disease. Surprisingly, none of the affected deer showed any outward signs of the disease - like weight-loss, stumbling or circling around, or excessive thirst. All of the samples that tested positive for the disease came from northwest Kansas, more specifically from Decatur, Sheridan, Rawlins, and Cheyenne counties.

Increased sampling and focus by the KDWP is due in part to the increasing number of afflicted animals in the neighboring states of Colorado and Nebraska. The first sign of CWD in Kansas appeared in a captive elk in 2001 in Harper County. However, the first detection of CWD in Kansas deer was found three years later, in 2005, in Cheyenne County. While the possibility of shooting a deer afflicted with CWD in Kansas remains relatively low, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is focused on maintaining tight control of these deer and where they live.

Chronic Wasting Disease is a fatal disease that affects the brain and neurological system of deer and elk. Outward symptoms include depression, excessive thirst, droopy head, loss of appetite, and stumbling around - basically the "wasting" away of the animal's body. While it appears that CWD cannot affect humans, animals suspected to have the disease should be reported to the nearest wildlife department in your area.

For more information on the deer affected by Chronic Wasting Disease in Kansas, click here.

My Opinion on High-Fenced Game Reserves

2009-03-28T16:33:00.003-05:00

Lately there's been a large debate in my neighborhood of the blogosphere that deals with Game Reserves and High Fenced Hunting. Albert Rasch, over at The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles has taken the debate to a whole new level.. asking for all opinions and trying to create a unified post and greater understanding. Albert emailed me for my opinion, and the following is the comment I left on his blog. Like it or not, this is my opinion. Rest assured though, if your opinion differs from mine, I will still respect it.

"Let me say outright that I completely agree with the statement that "Hunting is what you make of it." And, while our diversity completes us as a whole, this is a critical time when people involved in the hunting community need to stand together. With that said, I'm also going to mention that I'm extremely opinionated, especially when it comes to issues close to my heart, and I feel this is one of those issues.

I do consider high-fenced preserves necessary for the protection and continuation of some animals in several parts of the world. And, I don't have a problem with those elk farms, or similar operations, where animals are raised strictly for the purpose of providing meat for a retail market (this is a whole other issue.) My biggest beef is when animals are caged for 'sport' purposes.

So far I've read alot about property rights, and regulations by the state and local governments. For me, that's not the issue at hand. I don't really feel that this argument depends on how many veterinarians look at the animals or how much money someone pays to hunt these so called "hunting reserves." Has everyone in this discussion forgotten that the earth is not a commodity for us to descrate and exploit for our own means?

Aldo Leopold once wrote: "We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect."

Our land is a community - and that community includes the deer, elk, ducks, geese and all the other animals that we hunt or we don't hunt. The thing that tears most at my heart is that we, as humans, think we have the right to put up a fence and claim these wild animals as ours. Mine, mine, mine. These animals are not yours. These animals are not mine. Those who create these so called "hunting reserves".. when are you planning to place nets in the rivers and streams and all the way to outerspace to keep the fish and the birds all yours, and yours alone? I can tell you right now you would never do that. Birds and fish are supposed to move, and fly, and migrate, they aren't to be penned and caged. The same rules apply to the elk and deer and the other animals in these "reserves."

When I hunt, I become a member of this so called community of the land. A "hunting reserve" is not a part of the natural community. It is a backdrop, a theater, for a play where you have already staged the outcome and written the entire script. And the so called "hunters" are just the actors. You can talk about property rights and legality until you are blue in the face. However, the issue about hunting on "reserves" doesn't have a darn thing to do with property rights, it is about the animals and the land. Just because something is legal, doesn't make it right.

Without trying to sound childish, I am begging each and every one of you to stop and remember why you truly love hunting. If all you can come up with has something to do with holding a trophy then back out of this conversation, because that is not hunting. Hunting is about falling in love with the natural world around you. It's about beautiful sunsets, crisp cold mornings watching the world come alive, and being so close to an animal you can smell it. True hunting affects the heart and soul. It creates understanding, respect, admiration and love. When you take away the natural home of the animals and disrespect the land that they live on, you strip away the soul of hunting."

Quote of the Week

2009-03-26T08:58:00.002-05:00

Hunting Buddies

No one can fully understand the meaning of love unless he's owned a dog. A dog can show you more honest affection with a flick of his tail than a man can gather through a lifetime of handshakes. ~Gene Hill

5 Good Reasons to Reload Your Ammunition

2009-03-24T08:38:00.003-05:00

1. Save $$. If you shoot a great deal and go through a high number of shells a month, reloading can be economical. As with almost anything, buying in bulk can save money. When you buy off the shelf, manufacturing, assembly, and labor costs are incorporated into the price. By assembling the components yourself, you won’t be paying for their time – you will just be using up yours.

2. Custom Loading. Custom reloading allows you to tailor your ammunition to your needs, such as for a certain hunt, a particular animal, or to a specific firearm. For example, every rifle is set to SAAMI guidelines for headspace chambering for each particular cartridge. At that, each rifle is different and ammunition can be loaded to specific chamber dimensions of that firearm. This can help to extend the life of cases for a greater number of reloads, and tends to improve accuracy.

3. Accuracy. More often than not, most reloaders will find that their reloads perform better in their rifles than with factory ammunition. Part of this is because the reloader has a larger choice of powders and bullets to fine tune the load to the rifle. Most reloaders will be pleasantly surprised that their groups are tighter at the range and, in turn, increases shooter confidence in the field.

4. Confidence. Developing loads gives the shooter a better chance to become more familiar with his or her firearm or ammunition and how they perform together. Better loads, shooting more, and the increased confidence that comes with familiarity leads to better placed shots. Another benefit is not only being able to extend one’s range, within reason of course, but also to place shots with greater precision at one’s comfortable range.

5. Hobby. Reloading is a great way to spend time getting to know your gun, your ammunition, and it is a good excuse to spend some extra time outdoors. Also, the more time you spend working on recipes and using them in the field, you will know which recipes to keep and which ones to scrap – think of it as your own research and development lab. It is also a great way to keep yourself immersed in the world of hunting all year round, especially in the off season.

Disclaimer: The above is just one person’s opinion on reasons to reload your ammunition. You should always follow all instructions and safety guidelines and stay within safe limits of your particular firearm.

Safety guidelines are there for a reason.

We do NOT encourage stupid.

Great Blogs and Milestones

2009-03-23T08:46:00.005-05:00

Last week Dayne, over at DayneShuda.com, wrote a post on his view of the Top 5 Hunting blogs. The likes of which were Hunting Life, Bowhunting.com, The Hunter's Wife, Base Camp Legends, and Outdoors International. As a bonus blog, Dayne also included Deer Passion. I feel extremely honored, and a little surprised. Why surprised? As of today, Deer Passion is officially 10 weeks old - still new, still growing, and still learning. So far it has been an interesting ride, I have made many friends, and I am excited to see where the rest of this blogging journey will take me.

As for Dayne, I know it is hard to pick and choose certain blogs when every blog has a different goal and a different perspective. That's why today I want to highlight Dayne's blog. His blog actually focuses on the business side of hunting and blogging. He often uses hunting terms to convey business ideas, like his post on Paid vs. Natural Traffic: It's like Baiting vs. Funnel Hunting for Deer. And he uses movies quotes, country western songs, and photos to keep other bloggers inspired. Most importantly, though, he reminds his readers to stay focused on the end goal, and that while there may be hills and valleys, anything worth doing takes time. His perspective is fresh, unique, and his blog is worth a daily read. I encourage all bloggers, especially the newbies in the outdoor blogosphere, to take a look. Inspiration comes from surprising places, and I think everyone can find a little inspiration through Dayne's blog.

Quote of the Week

2009-03-20T08:00:00.001-05:00

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge

I remember a hundred lovely lakes, and recall the fragrant breath of pine and fir and cedar and poplar trees. The trail has strung upon it, as upon a thread of silk, opalescent dawns and saffron sunsets. It has given me blessed release from care and worry and the troubled thinking of our modern day. It has been a return to the primitive and the peaceful. Whenever the pressure of our complex city life thins my blood and benumbs my brain, I seek relief in the trail; and when I hear the coyote wailing to the yellow dawn, my cares fall from me - I am happy. ~Hamlin Garland

Women on Target

2009-03-19T08:45:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, May 9th, at the Tuttle Creek State Park near Randolph, Kansas, the NRA Women on Target will be hosting a shooting event for women, ages 16 and above. NRA Range Safety Officers, Certified Instructors, and Volunteers will be providing personal instruction in the areas of pistol, rifle, muzzleloader, archery, and shotgun courses. Firearms and ammunition will be provided, but particpants are welcome to bring their own firearms. They specifically note that no experience is necessary and everyone is welcome. So, if anyone has been dying to try something new, ask some questions, or wants a chance to meet some new friends, check this out. You can find more information at the KDWP website, or just follow this link.

The Women on Target Program was created by the National Rifle Association (NRA) to create more opportunites to encourage women to participate in the shooting sports. They provide women-only hunts and sponsor women-only shoots (like the one mentioned above) to create a supportive female-friendly environment. Many women feel self-conscious learning to shoot or hunt in the presence of men, or they feel uncomfortable asking their boyfriend or hubby a silly question. This program takes away the boundaries and tears down the barriers to create a supportive atmosphere for women of all levels of experience and age. For more information on the Women on Target Program, follow this link.

Fatty Fish

2009-03-18T08:32:00.007-05:00

Here's another great reason to step outside of your box and expand your fishing horizons:

Unless you've been living in a box the last few years, you have probably heard that fish are extremely good for your body. This is because they contain a good type of fat called Omega-3 fats. It has been proven that Omega-3 fats increase blood circulation and can reduce the risk of heart disease and heart attacks. They are also marketed with the proven ability to maintain good brain function and help control mood swings. Now the most widely available form (besides supplements) of Omega-3 fats are found in fish, but not just any fish. The fattier the fish, the better it is for your body. Fish, like salmon, herring, mackerel, and even the common tuna are the best sources for Omega-3.

Now, if you're like me, I have no plans to go fishing for any of the above fish anytime soon. But this is a great reminder, especially with summer just around the corner, that the best way to stay active in the outdoors is to make sure that you're eating healthy and giving your body the energy that it needs. Most doctors and nutritionists recommend eating fish, of any kind, at least three times a week. What better excuse to spend some extra time at the lake this summer??

Spring

2009-03-17T08:44:00.003-05:00

Spring is one of my favorite times of the year. I love waking up to the sunlight streaming in the windows and the birds waking the world with their morning songs. This morning I woke up to such a scenario, many flowers and bushes have already started budding, and temperatures today are supposed to be in the 80s. It couldn't feel more like spring today! I came across this poem a while back but I felt today would be the perfect day to share it with you.

The Enkindled Spring
by D. H. (David Herbert) Lawrence

This spring as it comes bursts up in bonfires green,
Wild puffing of emerald trees, and flame-filled bushes,
Thorn-blossom lifting in wreaths of smoke between
Where the wood fumes up, and the flickering, watery rushes.
I am amazed at this spring, this conflagration
Of green fires lit on the soil of the earth, this blaze
Of growing, these sparks that puff in wild gyration,
Faces of people streaming across my gaze.
And I, what fountain of fire am I among
This leaping combustion of spring? My spirit is tossed
About like a shadow buffeted in the throng
Of flames, a shadow that's gone astray, and is lost.

Websites and Links

2009-03-12T08:45:00.005-05:00

Ever since I was a little girl, one of my biggest dreams was to go on an African safari and an African hunt. I have always been extremely fascinated with African big game, like the zebra, giraffe, and the lion. Most of all, though, I'm particularly interested in the curly-horned Kudu. In fact, most of the time I just call it the curly-horned thingy from Africa. My husband has been around long enough that he now knows what I mean, either that or he's given up trying to figure it out. Either way, Jerome, from AfricaHunting.com has organized a site that has everything anyone could possibly want to know about hunting in Africa. There's information to find outfitters, taxidermists, travel agents, and all the information one needs to know about traveling to and in Africa. He even has forums, for the novice and the experienced, to discuss the pros and cons, and share hunting stories, and give advice. If you've ever had so much as an inkling to go on an African hunt, I encourage you to skim his website and join his forum.

Now, what about capturing your once in a lifetime hunts? B&H Photo Video is one of the largest stores of photo, video and audio equipment. They currently have over 200,000 products to chose from and strive for great customer service. I also want to point out that besides camera equipment, they have a large variety of spotting scopes, binoculars, and even trail cams for every hunter. So the next time you're looking for a camera to capture your great hunts, or needing binoculars or trail cams to search out your next big trophy, stop at B&H Photo Video. With so many products, it's easy to compare and find the right equipment for your hunting style.

Quote of the Week

2009-03-11T09:01:00.000-05:00

The great pines, the green aisles leading away into the woods, the shadows under the thickets, the pine-pitch tang of the air, the loneliness of that lonely forest – all these things seemed familiar, sweet, beautiful, things mine alone… - Zane Grey

Serious Shed Hunting in Central Kansas

2009-03-10T16:05:00.005-05:00

I want to introduce to you Scott, Nick, and Matt White.

Three brothers from Rice County, Kansas, the same place I call my home.

These three young men are serious shed hunters. So far this year they have collected 64 sheds, and they believe that all together they have probably collected close to 1,000 sheds in all. They have quite a story, and it was all detailed this past weekend in the Sunday edition of the Wichita Eagle News. You can find their claim to fame and the total story here.

Recipes Galore

2009-03-09T08:47:00.003-05:00

This past weekend my hubby and I made one of our favorite venison recipes: Backstrap steak strips. It is altogether one of the simplest recipes that we enjoy, but also one of our favorites. For two people we cut 2 backstrap steaks into strips, coat with flour, then fry until the coating is crispy and the steak strips are fully cooked.

While I don't claim to be a chef, by any means, I do like to share some recipes on this blog from time to time; the most popular so far being the venison enchiladas. Lately though, I am starting to feel a tad inadequate in the kitchen department. (Keep in mind that four years later I still have yet to open the majority of our kitchen-related wedding gifts, including a simple hand mixer that many would consider a kitchen essential.) Anyways.....

Lately, Rick from Whitetail Woods has created a weekly post titled Savory Sunday's. Each Sunday he has been sharing venison recipes and photos of the most scrumptious looking dishes, like the latest Mrs. B's Crock Pot Venison Roast. Many seem fairly uncomplicated (for people like me) and they all look super delicious! In fact, I think my stomach is starting to growl.

Then, of course, I have to say something about the new girl on the block: Jamie, from Borderland Adventures. Jamie has been tearing up the blogosphere with mouth-watering recipes like her Birthday Ravioli, which mostly consists of ingredients that are hard to find in rural Kansas. Despite this, and after reading her blog, I always leave feeling a tad jealous, alot hungry, and dreaming of an invite to her dinner table.

Rick and Jamie are just two examples that in the world of outdoor bloggers there never seems to be a shortage of great recipes! Happy Eating!

Hunters and Anglers Raise Millions

2009-03-05T08:40:00.008-06:00

My two favorite hunting partners, Matt and Suzy.

I came across this story posted on the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks page and thought it was too fitting not to mention.

Ken Salazar, the Secretary of the Interior, announced that $740 million will be going to state wildlife and fish agencies to help fund conservation efforts. Kansas is in line to receive more than $11 million for conservation projects. One of the wonderful things about this overall situation is that it is mostly hunters and anglers who have generated the millions of dollars for conservation. The federal excise taxes that are placed on purchases of fishing equipment, boat motor fuel, ammo, and firearms are placed in wildlife and fishing restoration funds by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Then they are administered to states and territories across the United States to aid in conservation. The funds that are sent to Kansas will be used for projects like habitat research, surveys, hunter education programs and acquiring land for public access.

The thing that excites me most about this story is it proves that simply by enjoying public land and taking part in fishing and hunting opportunities we are able to give back to the natural world that we love and help guarantee it's maintenance for future enjoyment.

Quote of the Week

2009-03-04T08:42:00.000-06:00

How like a queen comes forth the lonely Moon

From the slow opening curtains of the clouds

Walking in beauty to her midnight throne!

~George Croly

Lost While Hunting

2009-03-03T08:43:00.002-06:00

Came across this joke the other day and wanted to share:

My uncle Joe and his best buddy, Bubba, went hunting a couple of weeks ago. Somehow they got lost. Uncle Joe reassured his buddy, though. "Don't worry. All we have to do is shoot into the air three times, stay where we are, and someone will find us."

They shot in the air three times, but no one came. After a while, they tried it again. Still no response. When they decided to try once more, Bubba said, "It better work this time. We're down to our last three arrows."

New Poll

2009-03-02T08:16:00.004-06:00

When I first started this blog (all the way back in January) I added a poll to the right-hand side of the page because I was curious as to how everyone felt with the increased level of pink products in the marketplace. Over 50% were happy with the increasing number of products made for females. The other half were either somewhat or not at all approving of the products. I, for one, am happy to see cute female products in what is largely considered a man's sport. With this pink influx, also comes better fitting hunting clothes and accessories, and, I feel, more appreciation for accepting non-traditional hunters around the campfire. While most men don't see the excitement in all of this, I am elated after spending many of my early years hunting in bulky men's clothing or just making do with what was available.

The one major downfall for some women is that they hate the color pink. Many women that I know, and sometimes myself, would prefer other colors like purple, blue or green. (Notice that the last two colors aren't gender specific.) In whatever way you answered the poll, here is your opportunity to sound off on why you like, dislike or don't care about the major pink invasion.

The next poll is based entirely on my curiousity of my readers. The question is: If you had to pick only one hunting season to call your favorite, which would it be? So, just meander on over to the right side of your screen to take part.

Quote of the Week

2009-02-26T08:44:00.002-06:00

"Simplicity, clarity, singleness: These are the attributes that give our lives power and vividness and joy as they are also the marks of great art. They seem to be the purpose of God for his whole creation." ~Richard Holloway

Good News, and More Good News

2009-02-25T09:46:00.006-06:00

First of all, I want to introduce you to my new nephew, Colton Everett! I've been absent from this blog for almost 48 hours, becoming an aunt for the very first time! I am extremely excited and I can't wait to buy him his first drumset! Hopefully, he'll become another one of my good hunting buddies in time!

Secondly, I want to introduce you to Ben Gustafson, a new blogger who writes Ben G. Outdoors. He loves hunting and the outdoors, and in his own words, gets as excited as a kid when he does anything involving hunting. He started blogging so that he could stay immersed in his outdoor passions all year long. Please check out his site and give him a warm welcome to the outdoor blogging community.

While I was away, I was also contacted by Steve Johnson of HuntOnly.com a website that has information and articles about all types of hunting. They also have a large photo gallery and forums to help get and keep people involved in hunting. Steve is also a part of Whitetail Deer Hunting a website dedicated to, (can you guess?) whitetail deer hunting! I would recommend both of these sites and if you do check them out, tell Steve I sent you!

Bambi's Bad Uncle Jack

2009-02-23T08:38:00.002-06:00

Although I don’t remember this experience, my mom has often told me the story of one of the first times that I saw deer carcasses hanging in my father’s garage. I was either too young to completely remember it, or it didn’t scar my psyche as bad as they initially thought.

Every year when I was younger our Christmas church pageants always fell on the last Sunday of the rifle deer season. My father and uncles always promised to be at the pageant on time, but it never failed that one of them would take a deer that evening and they would all miss it. On one of those particular Sundays, after the Christmas pageant was over, mom and I drove home to find the garage all lit up, one of my uncle’s trucks in the driveway, and several deer hanging in the garage.

Mom and I walked out to the garage to find my dad, and my youngest, most mischievous, uncle. My uncle proceeded to explain to me that the dead deer hanging in the garage was, in fact, the lovable cartoon character, Bambi. They had killed Bambi. I didn’t believe him at first, but he didn’t change his story and I soon began to believe that he had in fact shot Bambi. Of course as my face fell, I began to cry. And scream. And wail.

I can picture the whole scene right now: my uncle with an ornery smirk on his face, my dad hiding his smile, and my mom glaring at both of them. On the way back to the house mom explained to me that they did not kill Bambi. In fact, they had killed Bambi’s bad uncle Jack, an old, mean deer that had made Bambi’s life miserable. In all reality, my dad and uncle had done a favor to Bambi and my uncle was just teasing me.

While many people tend to make jokes regarding Bambi’s life during deer season, in our home the bucks are always referred to as Bambi’s bad Uncle Jack. I don’t think my mom has ever forgiven my youngest uncle for that night, and even though I don’t remember a single thing, it always makes for a good story around the dinner table.

Did your parents ever make up a story to explain dead animal carcasses? And how will/did you explain the dead animals to your children? In the meantime, I sincerely hope that none of you ever have to come up with a story like that of Bambi’s bad uncle Jack.

Photo Contest Finalists

2009-02-20T13:11:00.005-06:00

Back in January I did a post about the Great Outdoors Photo Contest that was being sponsored by the Wichita Eagle Newspaper. There have been hundreds of entries of beautiful, awe-inspiring photographs, and now it's time to pick the winner. This contest is voted on by the public, so every vote counts. Go here to cast your vote for the Adult Division, or here for the Youth Divison. Even if you aren't interested in casting a vote, I encourage you to take a look. You might just find yourself inspired!

Outdoors Affirmation

2009-02-19T11:45:00.003-06:00

Affirmation. A solemn declaration.

Many young people, in various circles of faith, often make a statement, an affirmation, before being confirmed or baptized within their church. While this post is not faith-based, I applied the same principle to create what I believe is my affirmation for living a respectful outdoors lifestyle.

Writing an affirmation is actually a lot harder than it first seems, it requires a good thesaurus and a profound look inward. I encourage everyone to write their own affirmations, whether it be faith-based, familial concentrated, or all encompassing. I guarantee that it will help you re-evaluate and re-focus your belief and your direction.

My Affirmation of the Outdoors
I believe that hunting is a way of life, not a hobby. I believe that a sunrise can bring hope to a complacent world. I believe I am obligated to protect the land that protects me. I am a lover, and I believe that conscious conservation is the ultimate show of my love. I believe that passion ignites change, change brings growth, and growth is the fuel of life. To grow, I believe I must seek new experiences and make them the source of my education and my joy. I believe that tradition and heritage is the foundation of the enduring ritual of hunting. I believe that to connect with Mother Nature, I must submit myself to her presence. I believe in the power of a sunset to bring peace to the restless, and calm to my soul. I believe that I must focus my actions to bring change and to ultimately secure the future of the natural world.

Pass It On

2009-02-19T08:48:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm a little bit behind my fellow bloggers on this subject, but, in my defense, I'm just trying to keep the word alive. Chad, from The Wild Side and Field Dress t-shirt company, is now working with Pass It On, an outdoor mentoring organization based in Wichita, Kansas to help bring the outdoors to children. Nothing says it better than the press release, so I'm just going to post it in it's entirety. For more information, follow the links...

Field Dress™ lends support to Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors Program

WICHITA, KS (February 11, 2009). Today, many children express an interest in outdoor activities, but don’t have the support to help them realize those adventures. Field Dress LLC has stepped up to help these kids. A portion of the price of every item sold on Field Dress’s website (http://www.outdoormentors.org/www.fielddressed.com) will go directly to Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors Program. Field Dress will also be supplying packs for specific Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors Program events. Chad Rodvold of Field Dress stated, ”Pass It On- Outdoor Mentors is the ideal platform for Field Dress to continue its’ design ideals of respect and passion for the outdoors. I feel extremely privileged to be a part of such a worthy organization.”

The Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors program recruits mentors who will share their love of the outdoors with children who lack opportunities to get outdoors without a mentor showing them the way. Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors was recently endorsed by the National Forum on Children and Nature as on of 30 projects that creatively reconnect kids with nature, benefiting their overall health and appreciation for the great outdoors. “Too many children are spending too little time outdoors,” commented Mike Christensen, President of Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors, Inc. “The generosity shown by Field Dress reflects their commitment to the outdoors…providing not only quality products for those who love the outdoors, but working to make the outdoors accessible for our youth as well. Their assistance through this effort will make it possible for more of our youth to experience the outdoors cherished by Chad and all of his customers.”

For more information about Field Dress, please visit http://www.fielddressed.com/. For more information about Pass It On -- Outdoor Mentors, Inc., please http://www.outdoormentors.org/.

Quote of the Week

2009-02-18T08:27:00.002-06:00

After a day of cloud and wind and rain
Sometimes the setting sun breaks out again,
And touching all the darksome woods with light,
Smiles on the fields, until they laugh and sing,
Then like a ruby from the horizon’s ring,
Drops down into the night.

– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

What keeps you busy in the off season?

2009-02-17T08:41:00.003-06:00

Photo taken from a North Carolina archery shoot

One of the hardest parts of hunting is the season when there is no hunting. My ultimate passion is hunting for whitetail deer in my home state of Kansas, and when the season isn’t open I am longing for the time when it can begin again. The off season can get kind of long around here but it’s the best time to learn new skills, try new products, and to enjoy being outdoors without the pressure of trying to bag a trophy animal.

Right after Christmas my husband and I both invested in new bows, and so far we love them! Our off season activities up to now have been target practicing and fine-tuning our shooting skills. I love new products, but breaking them in can sometimes be challenging. I’m not as comfortable with the new bow as I’d like to be, but I’m definitely on my way to getting there.

We have also talked about entering a few of the 3D shoots that are offered around here. While neither of us has ever taken part in one before, I can’t think of a better opportunity to meet new people and work on being outdoors and staying hunting focused. While I am still itching for the 2009 deer season to get here, I am also having a blast forcing myself to get out of my comfort zone. What’s the one thing you do in the off season to keep the hunting bug at bay but still stay focused on your favorite sport?

Trout

2009-02-16T08:56:00.003-06:00

While this blog is mostly about my love for hunting, I do love everything about the outdoors. I spent the majority of my summers in Colorado at our family cabin where we did alot of hiking and fishing. I even learned to fly fish, though I won't claim to be very good at it. Most of my time was, and still is, spent un-hooking myself from the bushes and the trees, and everything else that the darn little fly can get hooked on. The other day, though, I came across this poem and wanted to share, hope you enjoy!

TROUT
I do my best
to keep pointlessness
at bay. But here,
wet above my
knees, I let it fly.
Here, hot and cold,
fingers thick with
thinking, I try to
tie the fly and look
for the net, loosening
the philosophical
knot of why I came
here today, not yet
knowing whether
I'll free or fry
the rainbows
and browns once
they're mine.
~Kathryn Starbuck

Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T08:40:00.000-06:00

Guess what? Tomorrow is Valentine's Day! One of the most celebrated days of the year for most women, and one of the most dreaded for men. So, if anyone is still searching for the perfect V-Day gift check out some of my suggestions for a great gift.

1. Jewelry (Duh!) I adore this diamond heart necklace by Jane Seymour for Kay Jewelers and this lovely elk ivory ring by Jensen Jewelers. The saying goes, "Diamonds are a girl's best friend," and I couldn't agree more.

2. The Lavendar Lady or The Pink Lady. Self-protection and lots of fun in a box. Besides being built to fit a woman's hand, it comes in several cute colors that almost every woman would love to own. Find a review here.

3. Pink Muzzy Broadheads. Nothing says love quite like a pink bone-crushing, flesh-ripping broadhead made for the ladies. Add some chocolates and a card and you have the perfect gift package for any lady archer.

4. Camo pajamas. What says "Let's cuddle!" better than silk camouflage pajamas? Soft and comfortable, she will never want to wear anything else. Perfect for cuddling on the couch while watching a chick flick on Valentine's Day night.

5. Chocolate! The Dancing Deer Baking Company has some of the cutest edible Valentine's Day gifts around! Cookies, cakes and brownies galore, everything looks to die for! They always said that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, I think most women would agree that applies to them as long as chocolate is involved!

Hubby's Response

2009-02-12T08:43:00.002-06:00

After Kristine, from the OBS, offered her challenge last week of writing articles about non-traditional hunters in the field, I was excited to get my husband’s opinion on the article that started it all, “The Hunt for Gray February,” by Christopher Orlet. After several moments of panic-stricken looks, and a pouty frown from me, hubby finally agreed to write a post. We both wrote our responses independently of one another and did not even discuss the article until afterwards. Here’s what he had to say:

“Everyone has the right to their own opinion, but when an opinion is brought forth with such disregard for others involved in their own activity only the insecurities and disrespectful tendencies of that individual are revealed.

For my wife and I hunting is as much for necessity as it is for sport. Whatever game we get in the field is less money spent at the grocery store and more paid towards other needs. Mr. Orlet comes across as someone who would dispatch his game and leave it lay after having one too many drinks to know which end of his weapon is the business end. Alcohol, by the way, should never be mixed with hunting until the quarry is cleaned and the weaponry, be it bows or firearms, are put away for the day.

I have hunted my entire life and I am lucky enough to have met a woman, my wife, who enjoys hunting as well. But this is not about her or I, this is about someone disregarding a very large and very important equal membership to our God given right and ability on this earth. While there are so many different groups and politicians out there who want to regulate into oblivion our rights to hunt and fish, there are those out there like Mr. Orlet who are tearing down a major part of our population who may be undecided on whether they would like to hunt or fish. This article could turn women, and non-traditional hunters, away from our sport and give the anti-hunting anti-gun advocates leverage against us by being portrayed as a pastime dominated by chauvinistic idiots.

In the past I would have regarded this material as the author’s desperate attempt for attention, acting out in anger to desperately reaffirm himself as a man after an ex-girlfriend or even an ex-wife came to her senses. But in these uncertain times, this made me believe that we need to pull together as a community, men and women, for future generations to enjoy what we have now.”

Quote of The Week

2009-02-11T08:35:00.001-06:00

If the sight of the blue skies fills you with joy, if a blade of grass springing up in the fields has the power to move you, if the simple things of nature have a message that you understand, rejoice, for your soul is alive. – Eleanora Duse

Response to the OBS Challenge

2009-02-10T08:52:00.002-06:00

This post is in response to the article "The Hunt for Gray February" by Christopher Orlet, and a challenge issued by the Outdoor Bloggers Summit to give a voice to non-traditional hunters. Essentially, Orlet’s article states that women are too high-maintenance, too naïve, and utterly incompetent and useless in the world of hunting. While he is extremely crude and demeaning in his comments toward women, the more I milled everything over, I soon realized that this article has absolutely nothing to do with women. This article is strictly about Mr. Orlet and men of his diminutive caliber.

Mr. Orlet makes women appear needy and emotional, when in fact it is Mr. Orlet himself, who is the emotional dependent. From my impressions, Mr. Orlet uses these primitive rituals (hunting) as a way to remove himself from the forces of independent, free-thinking women who see through his needy alpha-male farce. My initial outrage toward Mr. Orlet has subsided, because I expect such comments from men with his attitude, and I pity them. My outrage is now directed at The American Spectator for publishing such a boorish article from an incompetent man.

Mr. Orlet makes mention that while duck hunting “men need a gun in one hand and a beer in the other..” Well, Mr. Orlet, the women hunters that I know would be the ones shooting the ducks while you hurriedly try to find a place to set your beer without spilling it. My guess is, they would also be the ones asking you to quit whining “about how cold and bored and miserable” you are. The next time, Mr. Orlet, that you feel the need to demean a group of people, I would suggest you start with a minority you actually know something about, because women hunters are one group that won’t be bullied.

So what does it mean to be a female hunter?

Most people who learn that I hunt initially assume my husband was the one who started me in hunting, or that I am just his tag-along in the world of primitive male rituals. I will admit that my love of hunting is deceptive at first. I dress in fashionable clothes, I work eight hours a day at a desk, and I love jewelry, purses, and shoes, but don’t let the high heels fool you. In my world, hunting is serious business. My first hunting experiences were with my father and uncles as a tag-along, with a gun bigger than I. No one expected me to like it but I fell in love with the outdoors and made it my passion.

The night I took my first large whitetail buck, there was no male presence whatsoever. My father was out of town on business and my uncle was at a basketball game more than an hour away. There were no men to help me drag that buck out of the ravine, no men to help hoist it in the bed of my truck, and no men who helped me split open its chest cavity. At 15 years of age, and in only one night, I learned a valuable lesson: that as a girl, and as a growing woman, I had no boundaries. Strength, courage, and will are limitless.

Since that night I have taken many a whitetail deer and countless other animals, but that does not change the fact that as a woman in the world of hunting my accomplishments are disregarded and discarded. It does not change the fact that although I am a great shot and a better one than most men I know, the guys behind the gun counter will not look me in the eye. And living a successful life does not change the fact that guys like Mr. Orlet will continue to be threatened by women like me. These are the attitudes and the circumstances that many women hunters face. Yet, I would like to make one thing clear. The outdoors lifestyle, hunting included, is not just a hobby. For thousands of men and women, it is a way of life; a standard by which all things real, natural, and true are measured. For we do not own the land, the sky or the water… instead, the universe possesses us. The natural world is the one place where every man, woman, and child is one and the same. When we can all believe in the power of ourselves and in each other, that is when the attitudes and published articles, like that of Mr. Orlet, will cease to exist.

(Later this week look for a guest post by my husband, also in response to this article.)

Inspiration in Suprising Places

2009-02-09T08:33:00.006-06:00

I struggle sometimes to think of interesting blog posts, because I always want something original and new. However, I have found that the bests posts come unexpectedly from the most unexpected places. Last week I joined the infamous CamoSpace at the encouragement of fellow bloggers and friends. I have met alot of interesting people but I want to introduce you to one young woman who has become a friend and, after learning her story, an inspiration.

This young woman spent most of her childhood in the outdoors and fishing was her favorite pastime. However, she was never really exposed to the world of hunting. On her own accord, though, she signed up for a Hunter's Education course, did some research, talked to alot of friends, and decided she was going hunting. Her first time out she caught the hunting bug, and now she is spending her spare time in a hunting stand. Considering she didn't grow up with a hunting style and she introduced herself to the sport, my curiousity got the best of me and I had to ask her how and why hunting appealed to her. In her own words, this was her reply:

"I think, deep down, I’ve always been a hunter. When I was a little girl I was obsessed with fishing. I couldn’t stand to let a weekend go by without getting a line wet, even if it was at the local park where only the tiniest perch were to be caught. Every Saturday morning I would put on my overalls, quietly sneak into my parents dark bedroom at 6:00 in the morning, wake my dad up and ask him to take me to fishing. When the fish weren’t biting, I would spend the time catching bullfrogs and chasing lizards or just exploring the land. Being outside was where I could see my true self, be my true self. I loved the outdoors so deeply because it had so much to offer and I never found a day spent outside without reward. Nature was the best friend I ever had. I never hunted as a child; mainly because I was never exposed to it (I never even held a firearm until I was 25 years old). As I grew into adulthood and busied myself with all the adult things in life I spent less and less time outside. I began to feel disconnected with the outdoors I had loved so much, the good friend who had always been so generous, so accepting. One day I was watching a hunting show on one of the various outdoor channels and the feature was on turkey hunting. The man hosting the program was speaking about how special the time was that he spent in the woods calling those turkeys, listening, watching, and waiting. He spoke about hunting as being restorative to the soul as well as time for self-examination and resolution. It sounded like just what I needed. (Not to mention it looked like a heck of a lot of fun.) I just knew in a heartbeat that it was what I had been missing and that my old friend was calling me back home."

As you can tell from the paragraph above, we share the same passion for the outdoors lifestyle. Yet, she unknowingly encourages me to step outside of my comfort zone, try new things, and be open to new experiences that may someday turn into new passions. This young lady is my unexpected inspiration of the week and a person I will be happy to call a friend. So, where have you found the most suprising sources of inspiration?

Venison Enchiladas

2009-02-06T08:45:00.000-06:00

This is one of my absolute favorite recipes and I've never had any leftovers. Hope you enjoy!

Ingredients:
8 count pkg of 12" soft tortilla shells
1 lb ground venison
1 1/2 cups cooked rice
1 190z can of enchilada sauce
1 1/4 cup salsa
1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

In skillet, brown the ground venison. Add the cooked rice, 1/2 cup of salsa, shredded chese, and 2/3 of the can of enchilada sauce. Mix together and let simmer for 1-2 minutes. Then, fill each tortilla shell with 2-3 spoonfuls of venison/sauce mixture. Roll tortillas and place seam side down in a 9x12 baking pan. In separate dish, mix together the remaining 1/3 can of enchilada mix and 3/4 cup salsa. Stir together. Spread evenly over rolled tortillas. Top tortillas with the remaining shredded monterey jack and cheddar cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 2-30 minutes.

6 Shooting Tips To Make You a Better Shot

2009-02-05T08:27:00.000-06:00

Following is a list of visualization/concentration techniques that will tighten your groups and help make you a more consistent shooter. These are the tips and tricks that I use, and you can see from the above photo that it works for me.

1) Less Is More
The object you focus on hitting at the range is usually a piece of paper, at least eight inches square, or larger, with a designated bull’s eye. But what do you actually consider your target? Is it the entire piece of paper? The bull’s eye? I really hope you didn’t agree to either of these. Instead, visualize the bull's eye, then visualize a small, barely visible pinpoint within that bull's eye. That should be your intended target. A smaller target creates a more distinct sight picture. A distinct sight picture forces you to aim at a more permanent, never-changing spot. If you’re aiming at the entire piece of paper you have millions of those tiny pinpoints to focus on, each one of those points different. The more pinpoints you allow yourself to have, the greater your standard deviation. If you reduce the number of pinpoints, you reduce the number of possible errors.

2) Trigger Truth
Know your trigger. You can pull your trigger or you can squeeze the trigger, whichever terminology makes you feel better, but if you don’t know the feel and release of your trigger, you’re going to flinch and pull your weapon off its intended mark. I’ve watched many a newbie place their entire index finger through the trigger guard. This is about as effective as playing a piano with your elbows. The index finger should never be inserted in the trigger guard past the first knuckle, and just the pad of the finger placed on the trigger itself. Most of the time, light pressure with the pad of the index finger is all that’s needed.

3) Deep, Calm Breaths
This is a given, and usually one of the first techniques that all shooters employ. The easiest way to achieve this is to take a few deep breaths, inhale and then hold your breath and focus on the other techniques. While it sounds simple enough, this is actually rather hard to accomplish, especially if you’re looking at a beautiful whitetail deer or a trophy bull and you’re thinking of all the other techniques. The more you practice, the more natural your breathing technique will become.

4) Go Matrix (Like the movie)
One of the things that I struggled with when I was younger was flinching. Being dominantly right-handed, I always jumped and pulled to the right. Flinching is not a bad thing, it’s simply an inherent reaction to an extremely loud noise. But there are ways to keep the damage that flinching does to a minimum. After getting accustomed to your trigger, and finding that exact pinpoint as your mark, visualize your bullet traveling from your gun and smashing through your intended target. Use your mind to sink your bullet into the exact spot at which you aimed. This technique minimizes jerky movements that comes with flinching and gives you better control of your reactions and the gun after the recoil of the shot.

5) Don’t Stare At the Rack (I’m talking about deer)
Obviously, this tip is for when you’re actually hunting. The number one reason that experienced shooters succumb to the disease called buck fever is because they look at the rack. You can look at the rack beforehand, count the number of points, guess the score, whatever… But when you’re ready to look through that scope, do not, under any circumstances look at the rack. In fact, try not to look at anything except for the little pinpoint spot behind the shoulder where you are going to place your shot. Because when it comes down to it, that rack doesn’t matter at all. In fact, it’s utterly useless if you can’t make a well placed shot. So, ignore it.

6) Create a Mental Checklist
Creating a mental checklist is a quick way to remind yourself of all the techniques that you want to employ before you take a shot, at the range and in the field. As you practice and employ the concentration techniques, mentally check them off your list. The more often you practice this specific technique, the more natural all of your techniques will become. So when the beautiful animal that you’ve been searching for gives you only a few seconds to take a shot you can quickly go through your checklist and take the best possible shot.

Now, I know that there are many other techniques and lots of advice out there, but these are the steps that work for me, and I think I can prove myself with the photo above. Do you employ similar techniques? And, what works for you?

Quote of the Week

2009-02-04T08:32:00.000-06:00

The setting sun, and music at the close, As the last taste of sweets, is sweetest last, Writ in remembrance more than things long past.
-William Shakespeare

72 Year-Old Woman Bags Trophy Bull

2009-02-03T09:00:00.004-06:00

This story is a few days old now, but I still wanted to share because I think it's a great example that good things happen to good people. Mary Moulton, 72 yrs old, saw someone shoot a branch-antlered bull during the 2007 spike bull elk hunt, and then abandon the bull. (It's illegal to take a branch-antlered elk during the spike bull elk season.) She later saw the same person, contacted wildlife officers and had the man arrested and convicted.

For her goodwill act, the Utah Divison of Wildlife Resources awarded Mary the opportunity to hunt during the 2008 bull elk season. She took the opportunity and brought home this beautiful bull elk on opening day. She has since named the bull "Last Chance" because she thinks it will probably be the last big bull elk she ever takes. You can read the full story at the Utah Divison of Wildlife Resources web page.

Product Review: Balaclava

2009-02-03T08:30:00.001-06:00

If you have never used a balaclava, this is a must-have, must-get for your next shopping trip. I've used one of these for several years now and I must say that I will never stop using it. To begin with, I am one of those people that feels like an isicle from October to June. The balaclava pictured above is made from ultra-silent, warmth-inducing fleece and can be worn three different ways. My prefered method is like the one pictured above, covering my nose, mouth, ears and neck. It has a drawstring adjustment and works well with other caps or hats and doesn't interfere with glasses. This particular brand also has a Scent-Lok lining which limits odors from your hair and mouth from interfering with your hunt. I would highly recommend this product to any person who spends alot of time outdoors in cold weather, and especially for any serious hunter. The balaclava pictured above can be found here.

Unexpected Pleasures

2009-02-01T14:43:00.009-06:00

Saturday afternoon hubby and I took off to do some squirrel hunting on some family owned property along the Arkansas River. I haven’t hunted the area for several years but I plan on starting the 2009 bow season there. While we walked we found several old, abandoned tree stands; two that had collapsed when the tree they were on had fallen. While I enjoy walking and talking and thinking of the upcoming deer season, the best parts of the day were finding a new area where beavers had been hard at work, cutting and dragging limbs and small trees into the river. And where freshwater shells, liked the matched pair shown above, were scattered along the bank. It was a delightful sight. The water level was higher this past year and the river had deposited hundreds of these small shells amidst the dull, brown river rocks. When I was younger, my grandfather and I used to have a competition to see who could find the biggest or smallest shell or a pair that was still attached.

While being outdoors has hundreds of perks, it’s often the small beautiful things that we often overlook that makes or reminds us of some of our greatest memories. When was the last time you were delightfully, and unexpectedly, surprised in the field?

Problems with comments

2009-02-01T13:29:00.004-06:00

I've received two emails from readers notifying me that when they try to leave comments they are experiencing issues with the word verification box. I've made some changes and hopefully that will correct the problem. If anyone continues to experience problems, please don't hesitate to contact me (email link is under my profile). I sincerely appreciate my readers taking the time out of their busy lives to help me diagnose site problems. I will work hard to make certain that everything runs as smoothly as possible.

Hunting Tees

2009-01-30T09:03:00.005-06:00

Most people by now have heard of cafepress.com, a company that sells t-shirts, sweatshirts, and anything else that can have something imprinted on the front of it. Alot of my fellow bloggers even have their own products. But, have you ever typed in "hunting" or "shooting" in their search engine? You'll come up with a variety of sayings and images, and most of them hilarious. The ones shown above are two of my favorites. These make great gifts, especially for birthdays, and they almost always bring a laugh! Check them out.

Article Review: Animal Cruelty Assailed in Panel

2009-01-30T08:01:00.004-06:00

(Another long post.. Sorry!!)

My husband first alerted me to this article and I have to say I was a little shocked at the outright denunciation of hunting, portrayed as animal cruelty. The article begins by dissecting a program that Cass R. Sunstein, a Service Professor of Jurisprudence at the University of Chicago Law School, gave to a packed audience. Essentially he states that hunters are inflicting pain and torture unneccessarily upon animals, and this is a form of animal cruelty. According to Sunstein, hunting should also be banned if “there isn’t any other purpose except for sport or game.”

Well, Mr. Sunstein, there is a purpose to hunting. Many hunters do consider their time in the field to be a recreational activity. However, why do you think every state in the United States has a Wildlife and Parks Department or a Natural Resources Department? These departments are put in place specifically to conserve and maintain our parks. A part of that maintenance and conservation includes hunting. With the increasing human population, and their homes and shopping centers, we (and you) are destroying the habitat where the animals you are trying to protect once lived and thrived. Just as with the need to find alternative energy because we are depleting earth's natural resources, we must also strive to maintain a natural balance for the animals and their environments. Our state and national parks strive to maintain this exact goal. But having a goal and executing the goal are two separate tasks. And this is where hunting comes in. Not only does it help control the natural balance of life in the wild, but it also provides families with food for the year. Would you prefer that the animals starve to death because they are too overpopulated and there isn't enough forage or land for them to survive? Is knowingly starving an animal not considered unnecessary pain?

The article then goes on to include quotes and topics covered by Professor of Philosophy, Christine M. Korsgaard. She states that “cruelty to animals is built into the fabric of our lives.” Used in the context of hunting (I'm sure this isn't the direction she was headed) - yes, ma'am, it surely is. Though I've already stated that hunting isn't cruelty, I can't argue with her point that it's ingrained in our society. Maybe (now this might be a long shot here) because humans need food to survive. This includes protein, which were once living animals, and carbohydrates, which were living plants. If our ancestors didn't kill animals, many would not have survived. It's that simple.

The final quote of the article was from Martha Nussbaum, a professor of Law from Chicago, stating “each type of animal has its own complexity, each type has its own story.” She's absolutely right. Alot of the hard-core conservationists are also hard-core hunters, working hard to preserve the rights and the individual stories of these animals. Is this animal cruelty? I think not. Is this animal respect? Absolutely, and nothing less.

Read the full article here, and post your opinions.

KDWP: Increasing Fees

2009-01-29T08:34:00.000-06:00

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have proposed a plan to increase hunting, furharvesting and fishing fees. According to their website, "revenues haven’t kept pace with spending" so they're looking for ways "to cut spending and increase revenue." Now, this all makes perfect sense; every individual or company or state seems to be experiencing some rough financial times. On the KDWP blog, they have posted a spreadsheet of proposed fee increases and are asking for public opinion. However, while they are looking for opinions about increasing their revenue, there is no information whatsoever that discusses the actual spending issue by the KDWP. The year of 2008 saw a $9 million increase in the Department's expenditures alone. While prices are raising for EVERYONE, I have a hard time understanding how the expenditures have increased so substantially in only one year. If this type of spending increase occurs annually, of course spending will overwhelm the incoming revenue (duh!). The Department states that fees have not increased since 2002, but is this sole explanation really enough to focus on raising our hunting and fishing fees?

Again, if they want Kansas consumers to freely speak their opinions, I'd like to see another little spreadsheet detailing how they plan on decreasing their spending options. A quick glance through the Departments expenditures raises some eyebrows. If anyone has ever looked at the KDWPs actual budget for 2007 and 2008, they'll quickly learn that the budget program Kansas uses for for the public is not user friendly and raises some questions. For example, separately paid cell phone bills under the General Management program can be found in at least two separate accounts. (The state budget is organized by department/division, agency program, then accounts.) I'd love to give you exact figures on some excessive account balances, but this proves that the public must hunt and peck to find any viable budget information. I will tell you however, that the cell phone costs for just one, not both of the accounts that I found (and only under the GM program which does not include all the state park programs), jumped from $28,223 to over $41, 701 in only year. Is a $13,478 increase in cell phones necessary (when this doesn't even include the state park programs)? I can't imagine how much is actually being spent on cell phone usage for the other programs and I'd love to give you an exact figure, but I have better things to do with my time. I don't begrudge the KDWP the necessities it needs to maintain and conserve our state parks, but I have a strong suspicion that a $9 million dollar cost increase didn't strictly go to the necessities.

So, back to little spreadsheet with increased prices. I honestly believe that a fee increase, at this point in time, shows a poor management choice on behalf of the KDWP. As I mentioned before, it seems that things are financially tight for everyone right now, and the KDWP needs to not only be aware of that fact but take it into considerable contemplation. Hunting and fishing are considered recreational activities. It's common knowledge that when things become financially tight, the recreational activities are one of the first cuts that a family makes in its budget (because, let's face it, most families consider food and shelter more important). Taking into account that most prime hunting land in Kansas is now leased, along with increased costs, resident hunters in Kansas are being squeezed out of the recreational activities that they enjoy. As one anonymous poster on the KDWP blog put it, "Wildlife and Parks should be looking into ways to sell MORE resident licenses, not making it harder to buy them." I concur.

I realize that alot of my readers are not from the Kansas area, but I'm guessing that your wildlife and parks departments are facing some of the same crucial decisions.. Is this a good time to start increasing costs of outdoor recreational activities?

Quote of the Week

2009-01-28T08:45:00.000-06:00

I long for scenes where man hath never trod

A place where woman never smiled or wept

There to abide with my Creator God

And sleep as I in childhood sweetly slept,

Untroubling and untroubled where I lie

The grass below, above, the vaulted sky.

~John Clare

Good Salesman

2009-01-28T08:30:00.000-06:00

This was forwarded to me from a friend... I think all outdoors people with a sense of humor can appreciate this..

A young zealous boy wanted desperately to work at a department store. He approached the store manager who responded they needed no help. Quite persistent, the boy returned again and again until the manager finally said "We're having a holiday sale tomorrow. Why don't you show up and you can give it a try."

The elated boy returned the following day and proceeded to sell. At the end of the day the store manager called the youngster over and asked how he had done. The boy responded that he had sold $79,083.50 worth of merchandise. The manager asked how he had done so well. The young man said, "Well this guy was going fishing so I asked if he wanted some fish hooks, he said sure, That is $1.50. I asked if he had a nice fishing pole, he said no, so I got a graphite extension pole for $43.50. Do you have a nice reel, not yet replied the customer... so I got him a nice quick release reel for $35.00. I asked here he was going fishing and he said Strawberry Reservoir. I told him the best places to catch fish are near the center, "Do you have a boat?" The man said he didn't so I set him up with a nice outboard 30 foot cruiser for $28,000.00. Then I asked if he had a trailer. He didn't, so I got him a double axle trailer for $3,000.00. Then I asked what he had to tow the boat. He only had a station wagon, so I told him that just wouldn't do, but we could get him a nice fully loaded Dodge Ram dually, racked and packed with a tow package, trailer hitch and everything for $48,000.00. He wanted it all."

As you can imagine the store manager was astounded. "And to think it all began with that man asking for a package of fish hooks?" The boy replied, "Oh no, it all began with him asking for some tampons which were $3.50, so I replied, "Well you aren't going to be doing much else this weekend, you might as well go fishing!"