Haunted Hunting

Yesterday, Aiden and I participated in Pennsylvania's youth spring turkey hunt. Being beginners in any hunting venture, we were guided by a friend with a vast experience hunting the land we were bound for. It is with profoundly mixed and confused feelings that I tell you our trip did not end with the prototypical grip n' grin that now litters the social media of successful hunters.

I can say with confidence, this shared experience has brought Aiden and I closer together.

I took great delight in seeing his face LIGHT UP at the cacophony of  music the forest provides in the moments just before and during sunrise. The thunderous gobbles that grew louder with each role call of approaching birds served to create a welcomed and amazing tension in the tight quarters of our hiding spot.

I'll never forget his display of maturity and discipline as the days events played out. From his handling of a weapon properly in a remote area, to making critical decisions in a highly stressed moment. Even in the end when it became clear our goal would be unmet, he proceeded with grace and reflected on the amazing experience that he now owns forever. 

Neither Arden or I have been able to shake the sounds of incoming Toms since yesterday. Their collective songs will surely haunt us until further notice.