10.30
Sundays move slow, even in the bush.
Lots to do today. We are informally splitting in to teams – some are working on trailers, some working on installing a makeshift urinal and others working on rewiring the cable for our gas powered generator to camp. I’ll be heading to set up some tree stands, clear some bush and work with the guys to try and improve our chances.
Ideally a lot of this work should have been done before – there is a constant discourse in the woods as to how Moose react to changes such as these. Will our saws scare them off or entice them in? Will the scraps of brush we clear surprise and scare them away or provide a buffet for them to eat? Are we cutting too much or too little?
We will also leave trails of ribbons to mark our spaces and have a camp meeting to discuss radio calls, ensure all know what we are allowed to hunt (and not). We are allowed 1 adult male and 1 adult female and many calves (previous writing explains why). We average about 1.5 moose a year between 14 of us and we got none last year.
This is my 21st year with my hunting license and my 13th year of being a full-time member. Other than a handful of birds and the odd target practice, I haven’t had the chance to shoot at anything else. I have seen deer in moose season, moose in deer season and, 4 years ago, saw an adult female moose in moose season from less than 8 feet away – we didn’t have a tag and I watcher her browse in front of me.
6.30
We had a surprise guest arrive tonight. Dad has been teasing the camp with this news for days.
Brent arrived this afternoon, after lunch. Most didn’t know him.
Brent was Ralph’s son. Ralph hunted with us for many, many years before passing 2 years ago. He was a friend to many at the camp and one of my Dad’s closest buds – and a great leader at the Fire Department who helped my Dad a lot. He was also funny as all get out and the best Jeopardy player I knew.
Most recognized Brent as the son of Ralph with no explanation – they look a lot alike. It’s great to have him hear and I know how much it means to many of us. I am so glad to have him here, feels like a piece of Ralph is here and I know there will be many stories shared this week. It’s Brent’s first time here and many are strangers – that won’t last for long.
We officially divided the camp into two teams of 7 men – we alternate inside/ outside camp duties. One team is all fathers/sons and the rest are our other friends. It’s a different theme each year.
Early to bed planned and a big pork roast dinner – a long, early day ahead tomorrow.
