I thought I’d have so much time to journal while sitting in these tree stands, but my hands have mostly been tucked in my pockets trying to stay warm — not much room for typing. Still, it’s been nice just being here, with the world as it wakes up and goes to sleep. When it doesn’t know you’re there, you get to see a different side of things.
The does are so sweet with each other — gentle, affectionate, almost tender. They give little kisses and stay close, taking care of one another. The bucks, on the other hand, are full of male energy — territorial, driven, distracted by the rut. It’s funny how much they mirror human nature sometimes.
Yesterday, I sat in a stand opposite of Clay and watched a buck catch his scent. The way he circled him, cautious and sharp, before deciding “nah, something’s off,” was incredible. He started blowing and hooking, warning all his friends that Clay was there. They’re so smart — it’s humbling.
Clay did shoot one yesterday. He was beautiful. It was hard facing the reality that we took his life, even knowing he’ll feed us for the year. We tracked his blood for about 200 yards, and that was the hardest part — wishing he’d gone quickly, peacefully. I hope when it’s my turn, my shot goes straight to the heart and my deer doesn’t make it more than twenty yards.
Oh, and I’m 99% sure I saw a porcupine yesterday from the stand — which, honestly, was a first.
