Another Pheasant Opener

I passed on the pheasant season opener this year. Years ago when Molly was young, Aaron and I began what I thought would grow into a life long father and sons tradition. October 2001 was our last traditional opener.

Today I drove past the place where I hunted the 02 opener without Aaron and the 01 with him. I have fond memories of that day he asked to go without me. Just moments before loading up to go out for the traditional hunt, Aaron took a call from his employer, Matt. Matt was inviting Aaron to join him and some guys (20 somethings) for their opening day hunt. Without reservation, I conceded to release my hold on my young son. Sure, he could go with the boys. I guess that is what a Dad prepares his son to do. I was glad Aaron was ready. Off he went, gun, ammo and gear bag.

I hunted with my friend Trey that day. We had one flush over point. The two of us got off shots and the bird flew away safely. I returned home without the pheasant dinner I had promised Cathy. Later Aaron arrived home. In his hands a goose and a wood duck. The kid out hunted the old man. A good day.

In the spring of 05, just weeks before the end, Aaron told Patrick "You're hunting with us this year." Patrick's response was phrased in the way a 14 year old tells his big brother maybe yes, maybe no.

Traditions make for hard memories. The field where Aaron and I once hunted was empty this morning. I drove by quickly. Saturday youth football was in full swing when I passed the football field at ten thirty this morning. I saw us walking all of the fields of memores, side by side today. Saturdays in the fall.

I don't feel the pain at all
Unless you count when tear drops fall.
It only hurts me when I cry.
I only cry in the sunshine and the rain.
--- Dwight Yoakum