I took a different approach to it the last 6 or 7 seasons. With work, it's hard for me to get out on a regular basis in the early part of Pa's bow season.So what I started to do was just not hunt early on. It's always warm out, and I'm always pressed for time to get out and hunt. So now, I spend the first 3 or 4 weeks goofing off: scouting, riding back roads, continue practicing my bow, etc. I'm still learning the woods, the deer movements and such, just not beating myself up chasing them day in and day out. Now, when my vacation starts during the last 2 weeks, I'm relaxed, I'm fresh mentally and physically, and I can cruise through 8 or 10 days of hunting and not feel burnt out. I enjoy it this way so much more nowadays, and I've taken bucks during the last week to 2 weeks 8 years in a row.

Now I don't have the family responsibilities you have, but taking some time out of the woods often does ya good. I know what it's like to put the heat on yourself, and it often leads to second guessing your spots, stands and everything else. Sit back and relax!! Make it fun again!