CAnderson
Well-known member
It has been quite some time since I have posted here, almost 2 years I think. Some here may remember me, some may not, and others may have been glad I haven't posted in a while. (Hopefully that last part really isn't true because I wouldn't want to have that type of legacy.)
Well, lots of things have happened over the past years. I appreciate the guys that have reached out to check in on my. I appreciate others that have asked around as well. This site had always been uplifting to me, and a place where I have met many folks with a similar love and passion for the outdoors, conservation, and ducks.
My son, and first mate, is all but grown. He graduates from HS in 3.5 months. He has taken an oath to serve in the US Coast Guard and has entered their delayed entry program. He will report for USCG Basic in Cape May, NJ on July 8th. His mother and I could not be happier or more proud!
The biggest reasons for my absence these past two years was twofold. My father-in-law had a stroke. At that time, they were living in FL. It took quite some time to work through the affects of the stroke and figure out a plan to move forward. Eventually the decision was made to move my in-laws to NJ where they could be close by and we could offer help. During the time leading up to the move north, buying a home, extensive renovations to make the home handicap accessible, etc, the unthinkable thing happened. My pup, the best pup in the whole world, passed. That was a devastating loss for me. I know many of you have been through the same thing and the memories of our past pups will never leave us. She was, without doubt, the best pup I have ever had.
It has been hard for me to think about jumping back in the boat without a dog. Friends have called and asked to hunt. They were willing to bring their dog along and handle the retrieving. Parts of me weren't ready for that. I guess the feeling now is, I am ready. I am ready to get back in the water. I am ready to get up at 3am and drive to the shore to see God's miraculous handiwork at sunrise. Watch birds fly over like rocket ships, and land in the decoys like committed fools. Watch the playful Buffleheads commit to their strafing runs over the decoys and splash down awkwardly in a low wave.
I hope you guys will welcome me back. I hope to begin contributing again, and in a meaningful way. I hope all here are doing well and continuing to pursue these things that make us smile.
For me, being back will mean a few things that I am greatly looking forward to. My two daughters have expressed an interest in hunting. I will be mentoring both of them and one friend through the Hunter Education process. I am really looking forward to, with renewed vigor, the ability to spend time on the water with my girls and share God's splendid outdoors.
Chad A.
Well, lots of things have happened over the past years. I appreciate the guys that have reached out to check in on my. I appreciate others that have asked around as well. This site had always been uplifting to me, and a place where I have met many folks with a similar love and passion for the outdoors, conservation, and ducks.
My son, and first mate, is all but grown. He graduates from HS in 3.5 months. He has taken an oath to serve in the US Coast Guard and has entered their delayed entry program. He will report for USCG Basic in Cape May, NJ on July 8th. His mother and I could not be happier or more proud!
The biggest reasons for my absence these past two years was twofold. My father-in-law had a stroke. At that time, they were living in FL. It took quite some time to work through the affects of the stroke and figure out a plan to move forward. Eventually the decision was made to move my in-laws to NJ where they could be close by and we could offer help. During the time leading up to the move north, buying a home, extensive renovations to make the home handicap accessible, etc, the unthinkable thing happened. My pup, the best pup in the whole world, passed. That was a devastating loss for me. I know many of you have been through the same thing and the memories of our past pups will never leave us. She was, without doubt, the best pup I have ever had.
It has been hard for me to think about jumping back in the boat without a dog. Friends have called and asked to hunt. They were willing to bring their dog along and handle the retrieving. Parts of me weren't ready for that. I guess the feeling now is, I am ready. I am ready to get back in the water. I am ready to get up at 3am and drive to the shore to see God's miraculous handiwork at sunrise. Watch birds fly over like rocket ships, and land in the decoys like committed fools. Watch the playful Buffleheads commit to their strafing runs over the decoys and splash down awkwardly in a low wave.
I hope you guys will welcome me back. I hope to begin contributing again, and in a meaningful way. I hope all here are doing well and continuing to pursue these things that make us smile.
For me, being back will mean a few things that I am greatly looking forward to. My two daughters have expressed an interest in hunting. I will be mentoring both of them and one friend through the Hunter Education process. I am really looking forward to, with renewed vigor, the ability to spend time on the water with my girls and share God's splendid outdoors.
Chad A.
