The calendar turns yet once again as we put things behind us
and look forward to the things to come.
Personally I have had my share of great experiences. From
being named 2012 North Carolina Bowhunter of the Year and finishing second in the
Dixie Deer Classic archery tournament during the same weekend to having the
opportunity to spend time in several unique places in this great state over the
course of the year.
Early on I was able to head out on a 22 mile expedition by
paddleboard down the mighty Neuse River. Even though my experience included broken
ribs it was both memorable and exciting. Camping, fishing, and paddling down
the historic water basin on an unconventional means of transport provided the
thrill.
As summer approached and after interviewing Brian Lockwood I
set out to accomplish another thrilling pursuit. Brian fishes almost
exclusively from his modified jet ski. I rigged up one myself and headed to the
coast on three different occasions. The biggest thrill also come during what
may be the most dangerous time. A storm came in on one particular trip in which
I was fishing seven miles out to sea near Beaufort. Still, I was prepared and
the safety measures that were put in place allowed me to not only make the trip
but to successfully catch some fish as well.
The fall allowed me to hike down into the Linville Gorge
area. Quite possibly the most beautiful time of the year with the leaves
multitude of colors, the Gorge rewarded me with many great photos and an
experience I had longed to encounter but never had. Sadly, just a few weeks
afterwards the Gorge was set ablaze and nearly 3000 acres of natural forest
were burned.
But we shared other stories too. Orion Darkwood explained what
the outdoorsman and the prepper movement have in common. Drew Haerer let us
know what is needed to successfully target a dream when he successfully
completed the BASS Slam by catching all nine species of black bass from public
rivers on the back of a kayak. Bill Kohls gave us advice on capturing that
special moment on film so we would have a truly remarkable record of it for the
future. We even learned a bit of foreign culture and art with the simple and
beautiful Gyotaku fish rubbing prints.
However some of the best stories are the ones from our own
neighbors and family. They both inspire and bring a sense of joy.
For instance, David Tomlin and his son Eli traveled out of
country to bring down a massive moose. They also brought back a tale of
father/son bonding. Another great story came from Kevin Morris and his son
Brayden. Only seven years old, Brayden filled his buck tags in the first two
weeks on two enviable monster deer with his father beside him for both. While I
only hoped to bring a small portion of the special moments that times like
these bring, I know there is no way to do it complete justice. These occasions
are much more than successful hunts. These occasions are portions of the heart
that are just waiting to be filled.
My personal stories involving my own kids are not
necessarily meant to recap our experiences. They are meant to help you make
your own or for you to reminisce on the ones you already have. I look forward
to sharing more of my life and sharing yours as well over the coming year. May
2014 become a blessing to us all.
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