The hunting ritual has begun. Deer hunting season has arrived. In our part of the world, there are blaze orange covered people in the woods, up in trees, driving by in various vehicles pulling trailers or not, gathering in groups along the roads and filling small shacks. Some orange clothing is hanging outside on hooks, airing out the human smells.
This age of hunting and gathering is unrecognizable to the rustic ages. The tree stands have walls and a window, carpeting, heaters and probably the latest in I-pods. One is not surprised to get a phone call from someone sitting in a tree. A difficult job of this "mighty hunter time" is to stay awake while watching for deer. Then there are the hunting shacks. The men gather to discuss the one that got away and catch some sleep before the next hunt begins. Some misdirected wives cook up stockpiles of food for the poor boys out in the woods. We heard of one shack that was serving lobster, steak and asparagus the night before the big hunt--with no help from a woman.
The gatherers are busy, also. There are craft shows, lunches, a purse party and stores have special sales. Our local florist gives notice to hunters to pick up flowers for their "deer", only a "buck". (Their Halloween notice advised husbands to bring home flowers and scare their wives.) Only a few WT's have someone out hunting. If the hunter comes home "deerless", there are turkey give-a-ways through out the area.
The WT's have been busy being patched up. We are glad to have Irene back, in great shape, after an electrical system glitch in her heart was repaired. Naomi is recovering from knee surgery. Joan is having more chemo and radiation for her esophageal cancer. We were glad to have her with us this summer.
We are happy that our lady mayor ran for office again. She has done an excellent job in these difficult times. Our city is getting ready for the holidays. There will be a Heritage Celebration with a dinner, fun things for the kids and adults. Mary designed a gingerbread postmark for the occasion. If we are industrious and get our cards done we can have them stamped with the collectible postmark.
Have a very Happy Thanksgiving!
