So here I am, 24 years old and from Jersey.  Grew up in a family who preferred to be inside and read a good book to being outside in the fresh air.  For some reason, I always enjoyed bein outside...it wasn't until I met my boyfriend that I was introduce to the great sport of hunting.  I was in awe when I first walked into his house and saw the mounts on the wall... I have always loved animals, and I wanted to know the story behind each one (and man, guys sure love to tell their story hehe). 

The first time I went to just observe... to see if I'd like it.  My boyfriend got a doe, and he knew I was hooked when I begged to drag it out of the woods.  I dragged that whole thing out by myself (even when he kept asking me if I was ok).   Later on he and his friend took me shooting at the range, and it felt so natural.  The next spring I took my hunter's ed test, and purchased my permits that fall.  I was set to go....

That January, my boyfriend dressed me up in all the camo he had, making sure I was warm so I wouldn't complain as we were sitting and waiting for the deer.  Well, it was freakishly warm that day, and I was already swealtering by the time we got to the stand.  I tried to take off what I could, but I couldn't move too much.  Yah... well between it being so quiet and the warm breeze, I completely fell asleep.  Next thing I know, I'm being nudged awake, and he told me there was a deer coming.  I grab the muzzleloader, take in a breath, and bam.   I've never felt that way in my life....I think I kept holding my breath until the smoke cleared...then I started shaking.  I ask..."did I get her???"   She dropped only yards later.  Perfect shot!  Next time, I promised myself I wouldn't fall asleep!

Two years later, on a slightly colder day, I see two bucks fighting...a button and a four pointer.  Same muzzleloader....same feeling...my first buck.   I think I shot more deer with my boyfriend's muzzleloader than he did!  

It's been a great last four years... deer, pheasants, fishing...I wouldn't trade it for the world!  I hope to continue sharing these moments with the one I love, and someday have my own memories on the wall to share with my children and their loved ones :)