SouthernMD,
there will be no such thing of booting you off. You don't need a tree stand to be successful. While yes it helps, a nicely chosen ground spot can be very effective. I've killed 2 deer the last 2 years in a row off the ground just hiding next to a tree. It's a huge rush being eye to eye. Give that public land a whirl if you can, and don't defeat yourself before you step into the woods. Good luck, and stay positive.

nj
Glad you had some action, that always helps. I know its cooled down here in western PA and expecting to get cooler, so that is headed on to you guys.

This week will be a scramble for me, getting last minute things ready to hunt. I'm not used to the season coming in so early. I think I've decided to use these 2 weeks to try and take one with my longbow, and try some areas that I normally don't hunt during archery season.