FIRST DEER

After 2 years of horseback riding, extreme hiking, painful knees and lost toenails, I finally got my first deer.  We rode in 6 miles into the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness and hiked around for awhile.  Fred knew where he wanted to go and we hiked to this one spot and lo and behold! he saw a mulie buck roaming about eating.  He motioned for me catch up with him but to be quiet while doing so.  I didn't see the buck but Fred said he was there.  He had me get into position for a shot.  The buck disappeared. Sitting there for him to reappear seemed like an eternity.  Finally, he showed himself again but there was a twig in my way.  Waiting for him to move a few inches seemed like forever, also, but he did finally move and give me a good shot at him.  First shot at an animal, 200 yards, one shot and down he goes.  I must admit, it was pretty exhilarating.  I did not know how I would feel about shooting an animal, but it wasn't bad.  We donated the meat to our local food share for those less fortunate.