Excellent post and wonderful replies..I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving.
I just got back from "Deer Camp", took a doe and an 8 point that I was sure was bigger. Like Travis I am a poor trophy hunter.
I hunted on family property, mine that has been in the family since 1882. I took my Dad, Grandpa, Father-in-Law and 3 friends along in spirit. Including my 18 year old buddy who took his own life in August.
Life balances, I saw/participated in three youngsters take their first deer this year. They were all dinks to some eyes; but they were trophies to them and us.
I hunt because I wouldn't know what to do without it; it is as much a part of me as my beard. I wouldn't trade this life with a King.
KC
