Thankful: Last Day of the Upland Season…

 

Thankful. Normally that word is not used to describe the last day of the upland season for me. Despite that, I found myself facing the sun and feeling its warmth. I closed my eyes. I am thankful.

The final day of the California 2017/18 season ended with us chasing some coveys through BLM public land. The coveys were decent sized and gave us plenty of shooting opportunities. We went home with birds. Well earned birds.

At the end of the day, I contemplated over this past upland season. This was one of the best seasons for quail in the last few years. Last season was great too. I only hope that we receive enough rain this year to repeat that trend for the 2018/19 season.

I also thought about the unexpected effects this past season had on me. The growth. The change. The improvement. Not just as a hunter, but as a person.

Having allowed myself (generally a private person, who selfishly cherishes his alone time in the field) to let my guard down and invite a new upland hunter out this season, resulted in some unexpected friendships. Friendships that challenged me to grow and mature.

I have felt an appreciation this past season, that I am sorry to say, I took for granted. I appreciated every single day I got to hunt. Each time could have been my last. I never looked at it that way.

This season has made me thankful. Unlike any season before.

I am thankful. Thankful to God, foremost, for giving me the opportunity to hunt and a platform to reach others in our community. Thankful for the quail who always humble me and give me a reason to improve. Thankful to those who looked to me for guidance, but in return, taught me the importance of being a better mentor. Thankful to my wife who has been so loving, understanding, and supportive throughout my career change and under-employment. I love her more today and appreciate the sacrifices she has made. Thankful to my daughter who may not understand why I do what I do. Why I disappear in autumn. But I look forward to showing her someday.

My eyes are open. I am thankful. I am looking forward to next season.

 

God Bless and Happy Hunting!

-J.R.