The bright sun made it feel much warmer than 35 and for the first time in over a week the wind wasnt blowing at 20mph. I knew I was a little late when I saw 3 deer bound off from under my stand it was 2:30 but then it really didnt matter I just wanted some quite time after the holidays.

It was a little hard to get into the stand with the addition of more clothes then usual but finally I pulled my bow up and got comfy. I hadnt been in this stand since the last of Oct and had passed on several deer the last time here. The sun was warm and the scene peaceful as I sat and watched birds searching for food on the snow covered ground. Finally at about 5:00 things started to happen I listened to about 50 turkeys flying up to roost in the pine grove across from me it seemed they would never stop. My brotherinlaw has been putting out corn for them as there is nothing for them to eat.

I heard what sounded like a deer jumping over the fence above me and I turned to see one going out the hill away from me about 50yds out for the next few moments I saw nothing, then suddenly 4 deer bounded out into the field above the one I was watching,I knew they would head my way I just hoped it didnt take too long as legal shooting time was running out and it was getting cold since the sun had went behind the mountain. Finally the lead doe headed my way and trotted directly in front of me at about 40yds I turned my attention to the others and hoped one would come closer but they didnt so I looked back at the lead one. She had fed over to the edge of the field about 30yds away but behind some brush and then she looked me right in the eyes, I was uncomfortable the way I was standing but couldnt move as she kept looking at me this went on for several moments and not only was I starting to be in a cramp but I was fast running out of time. She started coming toward me all the time looking me right in the eye I had my bow out in front of me ready to draw and had been in that position until my arm was shaking so badly I knew she would see it,she finally came just to my left still looking at me in the tree and then she turned broadside at about 10ft from the tree and looked back at the other deer at that time I drew put the pin just behind her shoulder and released she kicked up and ran about 20yds and then stopped and stood ther for a moment and then just lay down and expired.

To me a perfect ending to my best season ever a total of 7 deer this year 3 with my bow on crop damage permits then 3 with bow by tags and 1 with rifle its hard to believe I have been that successful when I think back at how many years that I didnt even get a shot.

For those that read this sorry its so long but it was a great day and an even greater season and some may say it was only a doe but to me a very special doe.

Roy

Edited by - royak on 12/28/2002 13:38:54