Opening Morning, Hunters 0, Deer 1

This morning started out quite beautifully at about 6:10. Walking out the door this morning, Phillip notice how brilliant the stars looked in the sky. Then, as always, Phillip led us in a prayer. We both believe it is quite important to always acknowledge where your blessings come from before we start anything, and of course we also know Who is able to watch over and protect us. Thanks to Jesus.

For me it was a long walk to my stand. I do not often hunt in the spot I was hunting today simply because of the long walk that ends in a bout a 150 yard incline winding up to the top off the hill. Then of course I have to climb the tree. By the time I got to the top of the tree I was sweating and out of breath; and it was already breaking day, about 6:50. When I finally got every thing settled; safety strap on, screw in tree, backpack and bow pulled up, backpack on screw, bow on holder, arrow knocked, thermocell on, mesh jacket on, gloves on, gaiter on, release on, flashlights put away, water drank, Scentaway sprayed, B.A.tree cover scent added, turned around, and sat down; it was about 7:15.

Based on the photo's that had been taken the week prior, the bucks were moving through about 7:30. So though I was running late I should have still been OK. However, climbing the tree did a number on my back again; along with the walk in. So I was struggling from the start. Unfortunately the next hour and a half went by uneventfully. Phillips text told me his morning was uneventful as well. I had realized that my stand was turned the wrong way. I already knew this but did not think the tree would accommodate me facing the other way. So, before I got down, I tried it anyway and the tree is actually going to work out better than I thought. I rearranged all the pegs in the tree, and made it down by about 9:10. I have no pictures of any deer past about 8:30 in the morning, so we had decided to make this a short day. Plus, Sarah had a soccer game at 10:30.

It was not a complete bust though. I checked my camera and got a picture of another 10 pointer.

He is still a young deer, 2 1/2 year old at the most. But he is still quite nice. I might could pass Him up early in the season. But, depending on how the year progresses, the end may be different. After all, the biggest deer I have taken with my bow is about a 3 pointer.

We will just have to wait and see. I really want the big guy, but I know those chances are small.