ShrewHaven gang , Cindy asked Me to post this for her -- Yeah, I got another buck this year. This was my sixth deer taken with a traditional bow since I made the switch from a compound. And yes, there have been a lot of misses and some disappointment, frustration and heartache too! But what the guys at Shrew Haven don't know is that they are, in a big way, responsible for my persistence in becoming a traditional hunter.
I remember back about 7 or 8 years ago when I first visited their camp. I had just gotten my first recurve and I was so impressed with their buck pole full of fresh venison. What a great bunch of guys to talk with and their stories just stoked the fire to hunt in a new way after years of shooting compound. I had always loved to bow hunt but a lot of things had changed for me and my desire had become just a small glowing ember.
Along with Gus, who is the first person who helped me shoot a recurve (and gosh maybe that had something to do with me marrying him) these guys helped me get back to the deer woods, back to living. I always used to say that I lived to bow hunt and when I reached the point where I didn't care anymore I had a real problem. Finding this new world of tradition made all the difference!
Ron has offered tips and all the guys have answered my many questions. I feel very lucky to be welcomed into the men's camp where we can all just be hunters and friends, learning, laughing, testing new bows (so Gus, did I earn that Carbon Classic or what???? LOL) and of course sharing wonderful meals together. The other day when I was out in the woods I sat there thinking about the fact that we were all doing the same thing only in different places. We could all feel the light air currents as we watched the sun set. We were all hearing the scrunching of leaves and could feel our pulses quicken. I could feel the energy of that, all of us out there seeking what it is about bow hunting that energizes us and renews our spirits not to mention some venison! So even when you guys aren't here, you are here in spirit. I'll carry you into the woods with me and we'll leave the light on for you!!
Cindy