Perfect End to 2010

The last couple of days have been sunny and temperate for December. Evvy and I have taken 2 hour snowshoe hikes both Thursday and today. These are the days where you can simply not step outside without saying "Thank You". Yesterday, we took a walk up the hill and beyond following game trails to a small brook. Just beyond a cornfield, at the edge of the woods, a virtual tangle of deer trails. I would guess five or six deer in this spot, who survived the not-so-great white hunters.

We walked around the deer playround for awhile, then made our way on to Derry Hill Rd. The Hooper Hill Hoppers have already been out with their groomer, getting ready for snowmobile season. We finally walked up John Stevens cabin. I followed someone else's tracks for a bit, but they lost their way if they were looking for the cabin. There had been several blow-downs out there, so losing the trail would have been easy.....if I had not been so familiar with the terrain. So I broke a new path around a huge fallen pine, and on to the cabin. I wished Mr. Stevens well, as he is buried there now, in his favorite spot. I think it is my favorite too.

Far Hills south west fence Today Evvy and I went to my other favorite spot, Fay Falls. Actually it was the lower falls. The falls were frozen solid. The pool below was somewhat open. It looked like a hot spring the way it gurgled. We moved downstream along the ice. Evvy broke through a couple of times but she didn't seem to mind. I followed a minute blood trail, that I deduced was a deer which had also broken through the ice cutting its leg.


White Pine with ice.

Fisher tracks

Evvy and friends at Far Hills Farm.

Evvy taunting the ice.

We continued downstream for quite some time. I wanted to find an otter slide, but I'm not entirely sure I found one. I did see something, similar to a slide, but it looked more like a "slip and fall". At last we came to an ancient logging trail. I decided to follow it knowing we would have to pop out some where on the Far Hills Farm. We did in fact break out of the woods in a neat spot. I wish I could say I had seen lots of game trails here, but the trails were of horses. The horses led themselves to a tiny pond at the bottom of a bowl. Evvy and I climbed to the top rim and looked to the west to see Alysson's Orchard and Westminster, VT beyond. I could have easily laid down on the snow and sucked the marrow out of that moment. Instead, I paid a visit to the two horses who(because they are people too). The two horses were munching what grass they could find. Neither was the least bit interested in me or Evvy. I hated to leave, but the reality of time is that we have to be somewhere eventually. So we made a northerly tack, back into the woods on a short bushwhack over barbed wire fence and stonewalls, and out to County Rd. I can't imagine a better way to end the year!

Walk up to High Blue

Today's walk started at the entrance to the Daniel Upton forest in Walpole, off of Scovill Rd. There is a radio tower to the south of the road entrance. Then you walk or drive (with 4x4) several hundred yards to a clearing where people have been target practicing over the years. The trail starts at a very visible sign put up by The Society for the Protection of NH Forests. You walk through a large pasture then to an old gate with granite walls on either side. We continued west past an old cellar hole, where you can still see the remnants of the fireplace. Nearby is a small pond/vernal pole in the spring. Now ice covers the pond, and I suspect I will take a shovel up there and push the snow away for peaceful skating. The pond isn't big enough for many people. But Evvy and I had a good time.

There is a small path to the left that leads done to Derry Hill, and the Galloway property. That hike is very nice, with opportunities to see deer, and moose. We didn't take that trail this day. We continued on to the "scenic vista" which faces west toward Bellows Falls, VT. There are some narrow footpaths down the slope that lead to several granite outcroppings with cairns piled on top.

After hanging out at the overlook, we meandered down the path and took a side trip, following someone else's footprints away from the path. We followed them out to the 4x4 road, and across. The land on the other side of the road, is an easement maintained by the Monadnock Conservancy. There is a hunting camp out there which offers a nice view to the east toward

Surry. But Evvy and I didn't go to the camp. We followed the footprints to a familar trail through deciduous woods, granite slabs with juniper bushes growing in the cracks of rock. The trail is narrow in places, making the snowy scene seem magical. At one point you pop out on a spot that was probably an excellent place to look over to Surry Mountain. Unfortunately, after many years of overgrowth, you can't see more than about twenty yards. There is a bench made of granite blocks, and a fire pit also constructed of rocks. This place has always been so tranquil. I like to camp there one day, and listen to the wild things at night.

We made our way back to the west, where we stood facing the radio tower at sunset. What great pinks, and orange colors. The hills and pastures here are great for hunting. I spotted a moose here one year. I did not see a single moose track today. Evvy on the other hand found a frozen slab of moose skat, which she proudly picked up and carried around. Occasionally she would drop the giant cookie-like snack, and take a bite. Of I don't approve of her taste in snacks, but if I try and take it away, she wags her tail and gallops off with her prize.

After a couple hours we finally made our way back to the truck. Evvy was sufficiently tuckered out, and I very satisfied with all the wonders I'd seen.

December Morn

Yesterday morning, I loaded Evvy up in the truck and headed to Derry Hill for some exploring along the granite boulders and cliffs. My intent was to look for bear and deer sign. I parked the truck next to an old cellar hole.


The dug well

A piece of natural art. The roots of the black birch tangled around the rock, lifting it right out of the ground. "Gnarly man".

Nearby, the "dug well" with a piece of steel covering the hole. I removed the cover revealing the water. I took a long stick and stuck it down into the well. I wanted to know how deep the well was. I figured the well would be only a couple of feet deep, because through the years they fill up with dirt and "stuff". I took the stick out and measured the water level. I estimated the depth of the well to be 5' deep. I was surprised.

We walked up a long defunct skidder trail. At times the trail nearly vanished with brush growing in it, and ruts disappearing. I rarely stay on a trail, because I figure the real action is happening off the trail. So we walked back and forth across the trail or made large circles winding up back on the trail. I like to explore the many granite cliffs and hidey holes of Walpole. I rarely have a hike where I see nothing. We flushed a Grouse, or I should say Evvy did. Then she located a wonderful pile of bear skat, composed completely of corn! I would have taken a photo of it because it was bright yellow. Unfortunately, Evvy took the opportunity to gobble it all up...Yuck.

I found this gnawing about 5' 6" feet up on a hemlock. I know the height because I'm alittle shorter than 5'6"...ok, 3 inches shorter.

We worked our way around two bogs up on top of the hill. Ice covered the bogs, so of course I had to check it out, by walking on top. Neither of us broke through the ice. I searched for fresh animal tracks in the new snow, but few prints were found. I did find, mouse and fox tracks though.

I began to make a circle back toward Derry Hill Rd. to a large outcropping of granite. Up there, the granite is broken up in some places. Some of the rocks are nearly square, resembling bricks. I was tempted to build a little fortress, like I would as a kid. But recovering from a mild concussion sustained in a floor hockey game the previous, I opted to just keep taking photos. Evvy continued her romping around, gobbling up all the black jelly beans she could find.

I took this picture on top of Derry Hill. The little red things are only about 1/2" tall, a type of lichen. Sorry I haven't identified it yet.

This Evvy peeking out an opening in a rock fort that someone else put together. It has two walls about 3' tall. The shape of the rocks make for easy stacking. Evvy was inside rooting around after something.

Madame Sherri Forest, etc.

Despite the fact that it is now December, there is no snow yet. Personally, I'm glad because it makes hiking a lot easier. This trail is part of the Anne Stokes loop in the Madame Sherri Forest, in Chesterfield, NH. I took Evvy over there for a few hours. When we got there we bushwacked around the first beaver pond you see at the entrance on Gulf Rd. It was relatively easy because I just followed the well worn paths created by the beavers(below).

We explored the massive granite cliffs, and boulders that form a great ravine where the beaver ponds are. I counted three ponds in all. The oldest pond was at the highest point and had several inactive beaver dens. A great dam was created at this pond. The active beaver den is now in the first pond.

I found evidence of porcupines all around the boulders, at the cliffs. I noticed that this ridge of cliffs continued far up the hill to Daniel Mtn. At the intersection of Daniel Mtn trail, I continued to the right on Anne Stokes loop. This part of the trail gets steep fast, but the climb is well worth the work. At the top are some awesome views to the south, and the later to the north. Not a soul around. I could not imagine a more peaceful moment. We continued down the narrow footpath to Indian Pond. The pond was even more tranquil. I counted four beaver dens on the pond, though several were very old and sunken. Past hikers had come to this spot and built campfires, which I disapprove of. Nevertheless, it was a beautiful place. I imagined camping out there, and wondered how many others had.

We continued down the path, and I decided to sit down for a snack while Evvy explored. She had endless energy, always moving, leaping, tracking smells. I felt ashamed I had not ventured to this place before, ever! Madame Sherri Forest is so close to where I live, there is really no excuse for not going there. I had visited the ruins many times, but never really hiked beyond that. I'm so glad I did, today. There were still green ferns, in addition to the Evergreen Ferns that stay green all winter long. The large stands of Mountain Laurel(?) were everywhere. Even if there was wildlife around, they would be completely concealed. It was magical walking through these areas. I felt like I could have stayed out there forever. My imagination wandered with abandon. Most of the hike was through hardwoods, with islands of Hemlock.

The hike down the north side of the mountain(?) was precarious with steep, loose rocks, and roots. At times, the trail was so steep, I stepped down backwards, like you would, going down a ladder. I made sure my cell phone GPS was enabled just in case I had a fall. You never know. As I get older I have to consider that I'm not as unbreakable as I am today. Don't get me wrong, I'm not frail. I'm still pretty hardy, but the thought of falling out there, alone was disconcerting. It would suck, and unfortunately Evvy isn't trained to go fetch help. She wouldn't leave me anyway. So I just made damn sure I didn't fall. I had a walking stick, which offered support.

When we reached the bottom of the hill, we popped out at the first beaver pond. This time on the travelled side. On this side there is a very active beaver den. As I got closer to it, a beaver slipped under the water. He didn't slap his tail as they usually do when sounding the alarm. I hoped I would see him pop up again, but he stayed out of sight.

Evvy and I spent some time at the castle ruins. I noticed a predominant theme in the stone work. Sets of three arches. A set of three in the "grand staircase", and also behind the house in the foundation. At the trail head there is a photo of the house before it burned down. The three arches were a part of the window arrangement as well. I wondered if the Madame were reaching for the Holy Trinity, ironic since Antoinette frequently entertained sordid parties where who knows what went on? I would have loved being a bug on the walls of the house during those years. What a hoot!

The freezer is full of venison. I've given some away, even to the paper carrier. I've been researching yummy venison recipes, and hope to have friends over to enjoy it. Meanwhile, I have begun the process of tanning my hide....no pun intended. I spared you the fleshing process, it was not for the faint of heart. Perhaps the salting part isn't either. What I have done is this, I've stretched the deer hide out on a sheet of quarter inch plywood. I poured pickling salt all over the hide, and rubbed it in. I will leave it alone for 12 hours, and apply more salt. Following 12 more hours, I will brush off the salt. I haven't decided whether I want to try the brain method, or use the kit chemicals on the hide. I have plenty of time to figure it out. Once the hide is dry, it will be stable for a while.

Evvy and I went for a long hike this afternoon. I was kind of sorry I had taken a deer on the first day, there's still time and I'd like to be hunting. Nevertheless, I enjoy following game trails anyway. I found several, and plenty of good sign. Some good scrapes were found up on Derry hill, but quite far in for most hunters. I'm still seeing Bear sign in the usual places.

Evvy located a cow bone, that would be better suited to an English mastiff. She had actually found it last year. I had taken it away from her then, leaving it behind. She found it once more, so I let her lug it home a mile away. I would not however, allow this thing in the house. I have a small pile of bones outside, all of which Evvy has found.

We enjoyed our walk today in the thin fog of Derry Hill woods. The air was so fresh, and damp, intoxicatingly breathable. I didn't care that my pant-legs were soaked to the ankle.

Hunting Don'ts

This is my first deer hanging from a tree, rather unorthodox, but it worked in a pinch. The deer hung for three days in moderate daytime temps, and freezing nights. Then on the fourth day, I brought the deer to a butcher in town. He guessed the carcass yielded 55% of the dressed weight, so about 67.2 pounds. I asked for the hide also. I intend to tan it myself. If the hide comes out well, I'll go back down to the butcher to collect one or two more hides to tan. I was told that on a given day there may be as many as 24 hides in the dumpster, what a waste. I'll document the process as I begin. The first thing I have to do, is remove the skull, and salt the hide with pickling salt. I have ordered a fleshing knife, and a tanning kit for the remaining steps.

I have begun giving some of the venison away, because I can not imagine eating all of it before it gets freezer burnt. When I got home, I cleaned out my freezer and stuffed it full of the venison; breakfast sausage, back straps, hamburg, steaks, one roast, and loin.

Next year, I'll build a place to hang my deer, complete with block and tackle. This year alone, I have learned alot about hunting, and more about the post hunt; cleaning the deer, hanging the carcass, cleaning up my clothes, ordering various cuts of venison, and imagining all the ways I can prepare the venison.

Now to the issue at hand that I feel compelled to discuss. The day after I got my deer, I knew my neighbor and his wife were out hunting Derry Hill. They had asked me to come out with them to take photographs. I walked out to their location, and stayed long enough to know they would not get a deer with all of the noise they were making. I returned home. Late in the afternoon, I heard FIVE shots! Right away, I knew he had taken a bad shot, then another, and another....and so on. With disgust, I thought about the poor deer that had to endure such cruelty. Then I received a text message of all things, from his wife, who was still in the woods. She relayed the whole torrid situation moments later. She told me her husband had taken a shot at a deer. The shot hit the deer opening one side of it. The shot was taken head on (shooting don't #1). The deer began losing his entrails, and attempting to run away. Fearing the small buck(button buck) would get away, dubious hunter took shot #2, which blew off one of the back legs(shooting don't #2). At this point, I'm envisioning a few things, his taking random pot shots, disregarding firearm safety, and of course disrespect for the deer. Just appalling. It doesn't stop there. He takes a third shot, and blasts the mandible from the deer! I'm guessing the other two rounds were either misses or a final blow to an already mutilated deer. While they hunt their own property, and do not require hunting licenses, they do take liberties with this privilege. I don't know if they register their kills, or even if they must by law. Occasionally, they bait deer with corn or apples. Thankfully, the bear get to this stuff, and eat most of it before the deer have a chance. This couple crunch their way through the woods, destroying any chance of seeing a deer. Then they wonder why they rarely have a successful hunt. They are poor marksmen to say the least. Both have now taken multiple shots on a deer. The woman in this duo, told me once that she took a bad shot at a doe a couple years ago. In the process of taking the shot, she shot another doe, at the same time injuring them both, but killing neither! She chose one doe, and went after it. It took her two more shots to kill the doe. Presumably, the second doe became coyote food.

Needless to say I will never hunt with the people!

Shoot, or don't shoot

Opening Day, for me began differently this year. I had hung a stand in an oak tree. I thought this would be the perfect spot. Along a clearing that had been logged off a few years ago. Above, a granite summit with views of Vermont. The clearing sloped downward to forest of white pine, hemlocks, and oaks. I was out there at dawn. At around 9:30, the sound of a skidder. The property had been for sale and resale for the last couple years, so I figured I'd never hear a thing. But today, there was a skidder, a drilling machine, and a very large excavator above me on the granite top. At first the noise wasn't bad. The skidder was widening the access road above and east of me.

On my way up to the stand, I noted two new scrapes. I had previously made one near my stand. I was encouraged by this new activity despite the site work above. So I sat up in my tree for about four hours, before I took a break for a bite to eat. I slowing walked back down to my house. Less than a tenth of a mile I think. I spent about a half hour, tending to my dog, and getting a snack. Then I returned to my stand, noting fresh deer skat along the way. I knew they (the deer of course) where there, presumably watching my every move. I could just sense it. As I got closer, I heard the very disappointing sound of a chainsaw. The chainsaw was not above me, but closer to my stand! I thought surely I'd been discovered and the oak was being cut right then. Thankfully, the logger was not at my stand, but well below. Nevertheless, I decided this day of hunting was a wash. So, I took my stand down. First the stand, then the climbing sticks. The logger, drove his skidder up near me when he noticed me. He told me he did not see my stand. I said, "I guess it was a good stand then". He told me not to be discouraged by the noise and his presence there. He explained that he was a hunter also, that the noise and smells of heavy equipment would be good cover for m. I just thought to myself, "whatever". I thanked him, and lugged the stand back toward home. I left the climbing sticks there, planning to drive up later and pick them up. By now it was after 3:00 p.m. I made my down the hill to an area just above my house. I set my stand down, and looked around for a new place to hang it. I decided to leave the stand there, and hang it again the next day. In the mean time, I set the stand down, and found a place to take a ground spot.

I had given maybe one call - no commercial calls, just me sqawking through my hands. About half an hour later. I hear that familiar sound. The funny thing about deer is, if you're in thick cover, you don't actually see them until they are right there in front of you. The doe came into view from north to south, broadside. I watched, took note of the perfect shot, but decided I wanted to wait for the buck that must be following. The doe came to a halt suddenly, catching my scent I assume. She turned around, and took a couple of leaps before stopping. The turned to the north, and sniffed the breeze which was in my favor at that point. Well, you know what they say about curiosity killing the cat? This time, curiosity was about to kill the deer. I had decided when I began this hunting thing, I would hunt only for bucks. Today, was different. The logger had said, "you can't eat horns" when I shared my interest in bucks. So I would take a shot at this doe, if she put herself in my sights. After a dance of stamping front feet, then moving, stamping, and once again placing her broadside to my crosshairs......pow! I was surprised to find no hesitation whatsoever in pulling the trigger. I had wondered if I would actually dare to kill a deer. Now, the second the muzzle flash was over, I knew I had made a good shot in the kill zone. But she didn't drop, she ran off though on a definite tack to the left, like it would not be long. I waited but a few minutes after collecting my things. I checked the spot where she had been. The blood was there, good. I could follow the blood trail, and find her. I had to find her, to make sure. I thought about how ashamed I would feel if I just left the deer out there dead or alive. Darkness was coming very fast now, and I would need to get more light to find her. I looked around until it was just pointless.

Back to the house. I decided to put Evvy(my lab) on a long line, and search for the doe. We followed the blood trail, with some good arterial blood spatter, eventually becoming just a drop here and there. The wind was still blowing hard, and Evvy had some trouble tracking when we got to close to the rim of a shallow ridge leading down to my house. But Evvy eventually did find the deer. I just stood and looked at it for a moment. I did that. Should I feel bad, good, exhilarated? Evvy growled at the dead deer lying there with a single shot, nearly perfectly placed. I supposed my first thought was, "how am I going to get this out of here?" With darkness all around, I knew the coyotes would come soon. I decided to try an field dress the deer there. I started, but I was making a mess of the deer without better light. So I decided to pull out my drag. I never imagined how hard that would be. This deer weighed as much as I do. At first I wasn't even sure how to put the drag on to the deer, and what about the head and neck? No clue, but I knew the head would be dragging on the ground. So it tightened this contraption on to the deer, and put the straps over my shoulders. Took a step, and fell right back on my rear end! Heavier than I thought. I started listing off the wish list of things that would really come in handy right now: an ATV, a deer cart, another person, better light, and a cold diet coke. But alas, none of those things were there, just me and Evvy. While Evvy was helpful at finding the deer, she was a horror while I dragged it foot by foot. Evvy pulled the deer's tail, as if we were playing "tug", her favorite game. I began to feel exasperated, but I would not be defeated by this challenge, and it WAS a challenge. I lost track of time, because I knew I would be out there until the job was done, period. I pulled, fell, pulled over stones and logs, stopped to breath. Then I heard them, the coyotes had arrived. I shone my flashlight into the darkness behind us, and saw the eye-shine. They were scurrying back and forth across the path. I decided we really had to hustle now. I was exhausted, every muscle in my body ached.

It felt like my black belt test in Tae Kwon Do, all over again. I just kept thinking, "just a little further, then she'll slide right down the hill to my footbridge, and into the yard." Little did I know Evvy had been lapping the blood coming from the deer. I had no idea how much she had consumed.

At last into the yard. I put everything down, and brought Evvy inside. Then I got a work light and hung it on my porch railing, shining directly down on the deer. I donned my rubber fishing bibs, muck boots, and shoulder length cleaning gloves. Oh and the wonderful "White Tail" skinning knife my sister got me following one of our B.O.W. weekends. I felt a bit macabre, kneeling out there in the dark under a work light, the woods were alive with creatures watching.

What a mess! I didn't find out until the next day on the way to the game check-in, that I was supposed to leave the heart, lungs, and liver in the carcass. The deer would weight nearly 20 pounds less. Oh well. I knew she weighed as much as I, but no more than that. I saved the heart, which by the way, I missed, and put it in the fridge for anyone who enjoys that part. I took my deer tag and covered it with clear shipping tape, so it would hold up in weather. I tied the tag on to the deer's ear. I rinsed out the carcass, and resolved to lift it into my truck bed. Fat chance! There was just no way I could lift the awkward, ungainly weight. I set it back down on the ground, and prayed the coyotes wouldn't come into the yard. I had taken the guts, and placed them back into the woods, hoping the coyotes, etc. would just go for that and not my deer.

I gave the deer an expression of gratitude, for her life. She was still lactating, there was a babe in the woods looking for her. I was alittle sad. On the other hand, her little one should be old enough to make it on his own by now. I pray that is so.

I left my bloody stuff outside to rinse later. I was drenched in sweat, thirsty, and hungry. I rattled off the next few tasks, as if running on autopilot: back inside, take a shower, go to bed, I would not do one other thing. Except there was Evvy. All the blood, and whatever else she ate, came up again, and again, on my carpet. I would still not be defeated, after all I had the next day off right? I cleaned up the smelly mess, and took Evvy back outside should she need to expel anything more. All she wanted to do was go back into the woods. I wouldn't have any of that. Back inside. I left all my hunting gear there on the kitchen floor, showered, brushed my teeth and went directly to bed. What a day, a day of challenges, and a supreme accomplishment for me - single handedly. I felt proud, the aches and pains would go away in a few days. The memory will last a life time.

This is me, and my doe the following morning. I hung the deer later with the help of my neighbor. She looked much larger hanging up.

Big Day Tomorrow

The view from my stand.
So tomorrow marks the start of firearms season for deer hunting in New Hampshire. Each year I learn alittle more about what to do, and what not to do. This year I bought a tree stand at Dick's Sporting Goods. Then I got the climbing sticks: 20 feet worth. Got the parachute cord to hoist all my stuff up to the stand. The stand came with a harness, and relief restraint should I end up dangling in the breeze. Last week, I ventured out to find the perfect spot. I put it up the first time, next to a corn field. Then I thought, no it's too close to the logging road, someone will find it, and steal it. Not only that, my neighbor rode up on her horse while I was under construction.....I felt like my secret had been revealed. So down it all came, back in the truck, and up behind my house on Sheep Hill. There is a wide open area with a great view of Vermont to the west. This property has been for sale for a long time, so I didn't think I would see any other activity there. The picture above is the view from my stand. There is quite bit of deer skat around, lots of tracks too. I didn't see any scraps or rubs. So I made a scrape, and drizzle the ole "Doe in Heat" lure on it. I climbed up into the stand. Within a few minutes, what do I hear? A frigging skidder about 200 yds above on the granite ledge. I was dumbfounded. Why now? Site work began, and a wider access to the view was being created. I am praying this activity will not be happening today or tomorrow. What a disappointment.

This is my stand in it's current location on Sheep Hill. Hopefully the recent site work won't be an issue. If it is, I am resolved to go back to hunting from the ground. I went for a walk around the old location this morning. Lots of bear sign, and not so much deer sign. But game trails everywhere. The bear skat was mostly seeds of some kind, not birdseed though. There is always a place to plunk down, and wait. Wait, I will, and I'll bring my camera in case I get too chicken to kill a deer. BTW.... yes I know my ladder is up-side down. I noticed it while I was climbing up. Thankfully, the pegs don't turn down so much that I slide off.

Halloween Road Trip, etc.

Last Sunday, just f or kicks, I drove up to the White Mountains. Though Halloween is one of my favorite holidays, I wasn't in the mood for scary. I made a loop around the national forest, shooting photos as I went.

My primary motivation was to see some snow.

I saw this Red Fox on the road to the Cog Railway. He wasn't very afraid of me. I found out later, that people feed the Foxes. There are signs up discouraging people from feeding the wild animals.
The "faceless" Man of the mountain.

Here's a good look at the valley with snow falling atop the peaks. Not a leaf on any tree.
I made a whirlwind trip of it, as I am often wont to do. I would have liked to go for a hike, but I was ill prepared for the elements. The weather changes so fast up there, and it was cold to begin with, so I stayed pretty much inside my warm truck. I did make quick dashes outside to take pictures. I will say the White Mountains at this time of year, seem desolate. I rarely saw people driving around, or even on the Kancamangus Hwy. I expect this will all change when the snow has accumulated.

As I left the Mt Washington valley for home, I took a leisurely tour down through Tilton as Trick 'or Treaters made their way around town for sweet treasure. I recalled doing the same thing when I was a kid. We would fill up pillow cases full(or at least a third) of candy. It was heaven on earth. Driving around this night, I wondered if I could get away with trick or treating again. I still have an insatiable sweet tooth.

Darkness soon enveloped me and my truck. I was encapsulated and safe from goblins. I should not stop lest the boogie monster aka "the lurking" catch me. Thankfully, I made it home safe and sound. Who knows where my next impromptu journey will take me?

Getting Ready for the Hunt....such as it is

Evvy and I ventured out yesterday looking for likely spots I might like to hunt from next month. I scoured cornfields, found the tree stands of other hunters who had already laid claim to that spot. I looked for deer sign, and didn't find alot. Mostly lots of bear sign, the wider game trails, and piles of skat. There is always something inherently exciting about just looking for a spot, anticipating the hunt. I have yet to bag a deer, and frankly I'm not sure I'd take a shot even. But I do enjoy getting caught up in the whole hunting, fall damp, watching wildlife thing. I watch wildlife anyway, and more often than not come creatures find me first.....like bears. No matter I have never had a bad wildlife encounter, and if I should happen upon one.....well, Gloria Glock comes out.

So on this day, I found a complete deer mandible. It was complete until Evvy took half. Someone who had passed by earlier, had placed the two halves in the crotch of a dead tree. I inspected this jaw bone and determined that the deer was young based on fact that the dentition had little wear, and the size of the bone was quite small. I always wonder how an animal meets its demise whenever I find bones.

This week I will go out alone and sit for a while to see who(what) frequents my chosen spots, and when.

Road Trip

I figured since I hadn't gotten to the ocean once this summer, I'd drive over to the coast. The first place I hit, Portsmouth. Took some photos of the fishing docks, and side streets. Went into a really fun store called Macro something. They have some of the most funny tasteless things in there. I laughed the whole time. Got back to my car, $10 parking ticket that I WILL get out of.

Then I headed up Rte 1 to Kittery. I made a requisite stop at the Kittery Trading Post. I checked out some bows, and other hunting accessories - Too expensive.

Next stop, York, ME. I spent some time here. It's amazing the scenery you find when you take a random backstreet. The beach where I'm standing is one of those backstreets. The Fish House is also here. I checked out the Nubble Light of course, divers were just coming out of the water. I have known divers who dive there, and I still can't understand what the fascination is.

There is also a "Cliff Path" there, but I didn't check it out. Very breezy and chilly. I flock after flock of ducks and geese presumably headed south. I also saw a guy towing his duck boat all covered with brush and reeds, presumable to hunt ducks and geese, headed south.

I stopped at a lobster pound, and picked up a yummy well stuffed lobster roll. After all my sight seeing, I headed for home.

I have many great memories of Maine. I love it there. I have yet to make it into northern Maine. Perhaps on one of my future road trips, I'll make it a weekender up to the Rangeley area.

B.O.W. at Squam Lake

I look forward to BOW every year if I can get in.

So far, I've been able to get in many times. I think of it as "Deer Camp" for chicks, sans the actual hunting part. A bunch of ladies from all walks of life come to a beautiful location on Squam Lake to new outdoor skills from fishing, deer hunting, camping, and outdoor gourmet. A group of us gets together each year, to share a cabin at Rockywold-Deephaven Camps in Holderness. No matter what cabin we get, we love it! Loons calling at night, while we sit by the fire and sip wine. During the day we attend classes. Some I've taken multiple times, because I always learn something new. Saturday night there is a big wing ding at the Deep Haven dining hall. The raffle! All day Friday and Saturday we had the opportunity to peruse merchandise donated to the BOW program by many outfitters. We would buy copious tickets and place them in buckets next to each prize, with the hope our tickets would be drawn. Inevitably, one or two tables at the wingding would monopolize the winnings with loud shrill yells of ecstasy heard from across the hall. I have to admit when I won a rifle I went a bit nuts myself, but no loud shreeks.

Most of these ladies shared the "Eldorado" cabin. I'm in the back with the glasses and green bandana. All a great bunch of girls. But you know anytime a bunch of ladies get together, there is always the talk behind the back. Critiquing the wardrobes, or looks of other ladies.

That kind of stuff becomes too much drama for my tastes, so I go outside and take pictures. This weekend, I also brought my fiddle along and played next to the water. Most inspirational.

This little boat was tied up in the Deep Haven.

Me and my sister sitting on the fish bench on the library porch. I am sporting my new purple hat knit by Becky the camping instructor.

What beautiful sunsets we had. From this view, not only did I get a great shot of the lake, I got to enjoy playing my fiddle at the same time!

My sister signed me up for BOW this year, so I had no idea what courses I would have. She also signed me up for the same courses that she wanted. It was great to spend the time with her. We just loved taking Intro to Bowhunting(though I took Bow hunter safety last spring)with Dave Buchanan, Camping(though we both have camped all of our lives)with Becky ?. She gave each of us a hat she knit! Then we took dressing small game and fish(we cooked the delicious Trout, and ate them), and Habitats of Rockywold with John Laneen.

The evenings at Eldorado were fun. We all laughed, some swam, and Naomi kept true to her character scaring us by jumping out at the most inopportune moments. Kim and I were amazed when we walked in to the cabin. Groceries all over the kitchen, all stowed neatly. The ice-box complete with block ice like the old days, was stocked with plenty of wine and my lowly beer. My favorite part: the entire time at BOW. BOW also marks the end of summer, and the quickly ensuing fall. Perfect.

On the BP oil spill.....

I did the drawing a couple days ago. It seemed fitting given that the entire marine ecosystem has been destroyed. On lighter note, Evvy digs into the meadow in search of voles and mice. She is quite good at catching and eating them. So, I've just finished a 3-day wormer with her.

Ah, the joys of being a dog-mom. I haven't been in the woods much lately. Though I do take runs on the Class 6 roads near my house. I've seen deer out there, and owls in abundance. I found yet another cabin out there.

I have been spending a great deal of time playing my violin/fiddle. Soon I'll be fiddling at the contra dances in Nelson, on monday nights. Last sunday, I packed up my fiddle and headed to Dummerston, Vt to see the Baker Violin Shop. I spend 3 hours there! I learned all about the violin, how it is built, and what to look for when buying a violin. My violin needed some work, so I left it there. I tried nearly 10 different instruments that day from $300-3500 in price. I left with a $1000 "loaner". Certainly not the most expensive instrument, but a vast difference from mine! I'm loving it. I may not be able to give it back :-)

The NHPA Convention/Keene

The NHPA Police Convention was held at the Dillant-Hopkins airport last weekend. It was a scorcher of a day. Not as many people in attendance. But the folks that did show up had a good time. There were helicopter rides, which I have to say were the best part. A climbing wall, and other activities for the kids to do. Unfortunately not many kids. All the fitness events were cancelled due to lack of interest. I think there were more retirees present than younger officers. I guess camraderie isn't what it used to be. I have to say this year's convention was a disappointment on a few levels; few vendors, very limited menu of hot dogs, chicken, and hamburgers. No salad, no watermelon, no cheese for the burgers? What's up with that? Of course the Budweiser beer truck was well attended, with four taps, but I'm certain there was plenty of beer left over. The popcorn popper, didn't even work! Chloe, pictured above was all set to hand out copious bags. Poor girl had to leave her post and drink beer instead.

It was good to see some of the older( no offense Hal, Larry, and Randy) retirees. The whole event wrapped up with a raffle. I had hoped to win the Kel-Tec 9mm handgun, but it was not to be. Instead, I won a waffle cone maker, which I could not give away. I tried to trade with the guy who won the Kel-Tec, but he wasn't having it. I also tried to trade with my friend, Joanna who won a tent. She wasn't having it either, and I had to ask myself; Joanna camping out in a tent? Ain't happenin. So I'm thinking some lucky relative will receive my wonderful prize, for Christmas, a birthday, or for no reason at all.

I hope the next time Keene hosts the convention they'll ask me to help out. I thought this one was an embarassment to our PD. I didn't even know about the banquet Friday night, until Saturday! Yikes! The whole thing just seemed thrown together at the last minute. Too bad. I have many more photos than will fit on this post, so if anyone is interested, email me at mjfish094@yahoo.com.

Serenity

Serenity can be measured in many things, and places. My favorite place is at the lake on evenings like the one pictured. Lately though, I've not been able to enjoy the lake as my mom and step-dad have descended upon the camp as they do every summer. As much as I love them, the camp loses it's appeal when there a too many people there. I enjoy the serenity of my solitude when I am there.

I will have that feeling again, soon, because the fam will be off to Maine for a week. Once again, I will enjoy the peace and tranquility of my favorite place. I love to take Evvy on discovery hikes in uncharted forrests near the camp. I have found Pink Lady Slippers, bear dens, native brookies, and plenty of other wildlife sign. There is also something to be said about walking through the forrest during or after a rainfall. The air is so fresh, I stop many times to take a deep breath.

Yesterday, Evvy and I walked to John Stevens little adirondack cabin near my house. Mr. Stevens died recently, but his legacy remains. I didn't know him very well, though we would meet occasionally while out for morning walks. He headed in the opposite direction. Mr. Stevens used to hike every day, until his health kept him from wandering far from his home.

As usual, Evvy and I are always making new discoveries. Sometimes Evvy finds these wonders before I do, just because she smells them. Nine times out of ten, she brings her treasures to me. This time she presented me with a porcupine skeleton. I asked her where the rest was, and she brought me back to the place where the porcupine expired. All that remained were a plethera of quills, claws, and a tooth. I looked for the skull but couldn't find it, neither could Evvy. She was content to gnaw on the legs, and spine, much to my chagrin. She wouldn't let me take this delectible treasures from her. She would run away as if playing with me. I can only hope she doesn't get sick.
Why dogs choose to eat the nastiest of things is beyond me.

But anyway I digress. The cabin, remains and is solid. The Stevens family has taken care of the winter blowdowns around the cabin, and cleared behind the camp with a Bobcat. I am so thankful that Mr. Steven's land is protected by the Monadnock Conservancy. I want to enjoy his forrest for years to come.

Bow Hunter Safety Class

The only way you can bow hunt is either having the bow hunting license from eons ago.  Or if it's your first license,  you have to attend a bow hunter safety course.  So that's what I did yesterday.

It was a cold, raw, and rainy day.  Even as we were all sitting in Hodgkin's garage, everyone kept their jackets on.  I've already done the hunter safety course for firearms, so I knew this course would be similar in concept.  We went through the book, which covers equipment, kill zones, and ethics of deer hunting.  As you can see we had inspiring props.  The instructors brought their own equipment which was probably crazy expensive.  One of them had all the bells and whistle's; a really snazzy sight with 3-4 pins which denote different distances.  Then there's the stabilizers, and things to keep the bow more silent when the arrow flies.  We learned about all the various kinds of arrows and points.  I had no idea there were special points for shooting fish!  I think shooting a fish would be quite a feat.  Then of course we discussed many kinds of stands, and how to properly attach them to trees.  

The new hunting digest for this year is big!  I mean not easy to carry in your fanny pack really. It's the size of a magazine, not like the pocket size of the past.  Still I think it's easier to read, and look for info.  The digest and other resources to identify local creatures, surviving in the outdoors, and first aid were all part of the packets we got.  We had an exercise outdoors in the rain.  We had to follow a prepared blood trail, to a deer decoy planted out in the woods.  Then we had to estimate the distances and coordinates of several decoys.  While we were out there we got to see several kinds of deer stands, and I'm thinking I like the climbing stand.  It's much less cumbersome, easy to use, and when you're done you climb back down, no one knows you were there.

We all took a test at the end, followed by receiving our cards, and a patch for completing the course.  

Today I was not especially inspired to do much.  I've been cleaning out my basement for the last couple weeks.  The dismal weather has made motivation a problem.  Nevertheless I made a promise to myself and Evvy that I would take her out for at least one good long walk every weekend.  So we headed up to the High Blue, in one of the forest society's conservation lands.  I ventured on to trails less travelled, covering a large area along the ridge.  Evvy was ecstatic, running full tilt through the trees, and stopping to wallow in vernal pools and mud.  She discovered a delicacy for dogs; Moose skat.   Later, she happened upon a porcupine, a very big one!  I saw the porky head up an hemlock tree, I was so relieved when Evvy was not able to catch it.  I know what happens to pups when they get a face full of quills.  Not fun, and agony for the pup.

When we got home, I gave Evvy the requisite cold shower to rid her of all the mud.

Easter Morn

Easter morning I took Evvy out for a 4 mile, jog/walk along Whipple Hill Rd, to the old Rapids Rd. and finally down to the cornfields west of my house.  These roads are used by snowmobiles in winter, and occasionally a 4 x 4 sneaks on the cornfield.  In fact, there is an abandoned pickup truck next to the cornfield.  That truck has been out there since last fall.

I am finding that jogging, or brisk walking has helped me to lose ten pounds!  So I'll keep it up as long as the knees cooperate.  We were nearing the end of the jog portion, when we stopped at the brook that bisects the cornfields.  There is a small bridge, and a neat little pebble beach.

Evvy jumped right into the brook, while knelt down in mindful gratitude.  I thanked God for all that I had been given, to include the beautiful day.  I made some requests, which we can never know for sure the response.  I like to ask for a sign, just in case.  So I did.  I collected Evvy and we made our way back to County Rd.  I spotted this little clump of yellow flowers.  There were NO other flowers anywhere.  That was my sign, and Easter began jubilantly.

Drowning in a river, drowning in a river of tears ~ Eric Clapton

Sadly I have found myself in that dark place once again. A place I had worked so hard to leave just a few years past.  In just a few short months I have gone from being the happiest I'd ever been, to the depth of despair. I'm not sure why I'm sharing this, because I don't know for certain that anyone is reading this blog.  At any rate, I seem to plod along through each day searching for both my purpose, and things to be grateful for.  I know full well the many things and people to be thankful for.  As for my purpose it escapes me yet.  My whole life, the one dream I've had, that has meant so much, has been that I might be someone's special companion, someone's mom, someone's partner to grow old with.  As more than half my life has passed me by, my dreams too, escape me.  Oh, I had given up on being a mom to anything other than cats and dogs a long time ago.  Sometimes I weep for not having a child of my own, but I've accepted that now.  But to live so long without the comfort, reassurance, love and all that goes along with "good" relationships, it's been a long hard way.  I think one special person comes along during a lifetime, someone you connect with on all levels.  I have had two such people come through my life, one has been unobtainable, the other just cast me off only a month ago.

I'm trying to get back to the person I was before this recent blow.  Evvy and I are returning to the woods more often, the one sure place I feel comfortable.  As far as I can see, the world out there has gone bad, the people, the environment, the politics, the economy, just everything.  I spend way too much time alone, I did it before all this.  Nevertheless I know who I can rely on, it 's been me all along.  I should think I won't give up my power to another person again.  My footing precarious but moving forward.

Fine Finish to an Early Spring Day

Despite the forecast for rain, the day remained dry.   However, my day started out with a cold shower!  My ancient water heater finally gave up the ghost.  I'm wondering if this is payback, for buying my awesome new camera.  My motorcycle has been stuck in the mud outside the shed, for two days now.  I had left it out one night.  The next day, the motorcycle sunk up to the rims.  I couldn't budge it.  So my sister and family came up today to help, easily pushing the bike back into the shed.   

 

I worked a late shift last night as a security guard at Cheshire Medical Center, until 2:30 a.m.  I haven't worked a night shift for a while.  It had been a lonely slow night walking the deserted hallways, and dark offices.  Then around 10:30 p.m.  the intoxicated people started arriving in various states of inebriation.  They rolled in right up until I went off shift.  All decidedly remorseful for their overindulgence.  The facial expressions are universal, a blank stare at anything. The occasional switch, or jolt, trying not to puke.  Some had trash bags around their necks like giant bibs.  If they let fly, none of the mess got on their clothes, it all went into the bag...ingenious.

Funny, watching people wheeled in with trashbags around their necks, made me think of big kids getting ready to be fed in a giant high chair.  These big kids were just as vulnerable and needy as babies.  It was both amusing, and disgusting at the same time.  What was most disturbing was to see a teenager come in, maybe more intoxicated than any who had arrived.

He had lost control of "both ends" stinking up the whole ECC.  I wondered what the future held for this person.

Anyhooo, this evening I took Evvy up on Watkins Hill where the cows will soon be grazing. Evvy dashed all around the pastural hill, stopping often to sniff the aged cow flops.  As we walked back home, I was awestruck by the brilliant colors of a gorgeous sunset.  The photo I took is looking west, obviously down County Rd.

Morning Walk with Evvy

Evvy and I went for an early morning walk last Friday. We hadn't really ventured far over the winter. So I drove up over the Whipple Hill Rd to see what was new. I took my fabulous new Nikon D3000 camera. A purchase I surely can't afford, but gave to myself as a gift for an hellacious couple or three weeks prior. I looked for artistic compositions in everything. Evvy was content to run around smelling the spring time smells. To her it must have been like being a kid in a candy store. I could hear Tom Turkeys gobbling in the distance. I called to them, but my hen call seems to have been more of a strangled cat sound. Needless to say, no Turkeys came our way.

We continued down the old Rapids Road, now just accessible by snowmobiles, ATV and four wheel drives. Only the slightest bit of snow and ice remain. Evvy took full advantage of any melting snow she could find. She loves to roll and slide herself along the snow like an Otter.
Pretty funny actually.

There is a stream that runs from Whipple Hill down to Rapids Rd. Just past the sand pit entrance, I followed the stream back up hill. There is what appears to be an old dam. With the spring run-off, a beautiful waterfall had been created over the stones. I got some great close-ups of moss, and evergreen ferns. I must have taken close to 50 photos. I couldn't wait to return home and check the pictures out on my computer. 

After Evvy had sufficiently smelled the smells, chased chipmunks, and eat nasty things, she headed for the truck. I heard Red-Winged Blackbirds, and now I am sure Spring has sprung.
I have started seeds of Tomatoes, Burpless cucumbers, Basil, Rosemary, Lemon balm, and a flower I don't remember the name of. My little seedlings are already sprouted, and will soon have to be transplanted to pea pots. That is if the cats don't eat them, I may actually have some good plants to put out after last frost.

Snowmobiling? Go south

If you want to go snowmobiling, you'll have to go south! That's right, all the snow is in the mid-altlantic states. Up here in in Walpole, there has been no new snow. Evvy and I have been able to take ours hikes with no snowshoes or skiis. Each time I go out I make a point of looking for wonders of one sort of another. Last weekend, Evvy and I were up on Derry Hill, the Galloway property. I decided to follow a well worn deer path, then I was distracted by another set. Evvy was running through the trees and broken tree limbs on the ground. She was in her own little world. We were at the edge of a recently cleared piece of land. Looking to the north, a small log cabin with few amenities, is habited by one of the reclusive Galloways. No electricity, no running water.

Anyway, Evvy and I walked the edge of the field to keep out of the gusty wind. Even though the recent days have been filled bright sunshine, the wind reminds us that it is still winter. As Evvy contented herself by eating frozen kibble(deer skat), she completely missed the Snowshoe hare bounding away from us. I was lucky to have seen it, because they are nearly all white this time of year. There was no chance of taking a photo of this beauty, he was way too fast. So I borrowed the picture above, from the internet.

Evvy and I took another hike on Sunday, up Sheep Hill. The view from there is spectacular, facing Bellows Falls, VT. You can see several ski areas, and hear the trains that stop in Bellows Falls. Once again we tried to stay in the woods as much as possible because the wind was blowing quite hard. We did not see any creatures, but tons of tracks. Mostly deer and coyote. It's funny I see coyote tracks in abundance in some places, and barely any in other locations. The southern slopes with White Pines, and recent logging seem to be attractive for the coyotes, turkey and deer. The snowshoe hare seem to prefer thicker stands of young white pines, with branches low to the ground. They also like the brambles and downed hemlocks to hide in. I don't see quite as much coyote traffic in the deeper woods, but more deer. The deer like to yard up in the thicker woods, upslope. I have found many deer yards with anatomically correct, melted beds.

I haven't found a single shed, and always wonder if Evvy will find one for me. Usually in the spring, Evvy will run ahead and return with various deer bones. Once she found an entire deer leg!

Bayport Inn

The Bayport Inn isn't your ordinary Inn. It's a biker, tourist bar & grill.
The place is owned by a local doctor!
Sure there are the usual Harleys, but there is also an awesome view of the marshes, and of course the bar cats. This is but one of two we saw. We sat on the back deck in glorious warm sunshine! The art here is different, a stiff fisherman in his rowboat and "Neverude" outboard. There is a small channel just below the deck. The tide was out so we could see small crabs scurrying around on the mud. The wading birds were everywhere, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Snowy Egrets, Little Blue, and Cattle Egrets scouring the marsh for their lunch.

I enjoyed a yummy fish sandwich, with fries of course. Then on to the Bayport fishing pier where we watched the Skimmers, and Royal Terns
argue over a Needle Fish. I caught the skimmer as he was just taking off. Out by the bay, it was much cooler even in full sun. Nevertheless, beautiful to take in on the last day of my vacation.
Tomorrow I'm back to dial-up, freezing cold & ice, and work. That is the cruel reality of the return to New Hampshire. But I will return to the sunny south again and again.