Went out this morning and after sitting for 2 hours I saw 2 does, out of range of course. So while getting colder I decide to sit a while longer. 1/2 later comes 4 more does southwest of me....out of range again of course. I think to myself, I will sit a while longer and let my mustache ice up. After another hour and a 1/2, I scan all around and think its time to go, I've seen all thats moving and nothing else will come around. But, I count to 30(just something I do), look all around and nothing is to be seen but squirells and birds.

Now mind you in 3.5 hours time I saw 6 does, lots of squirells and birds. In all this time I kept telling myself its not cold, that I could tough it out a little longer, hoping a nice buck would come by. The wind shifts and picks up, making hunting from a stand even more miserable. Even the pocket handwarmer does not seem as comfy against my bare hand with my release around it. I decide to count to 30 again...just in case something is coming my way. Nope, all clear, time to get down and go home, besides the wife is waiting for me to take her Xmas shopping. I let my bow down and then get two steps down from my chain on stand and something tells me to look behind me. Coming towards me, and now at 20 yards away is a 150 class buck, with around a 20" inside spread. All I can do is hang on and watch helplessly as he moves on north of me in a circle, finally crossing the creek and out of sight.

Being the foolish one that I am, I get back in the stand and pull my bow back up and sit another hour so I can get colder, just in case! Now I am home, warmer and disgusted that Murphy's Law got me again. I hate Mr. Murphy!!!!![&o]