We're on a sliding per diem: the first couple months are more than covered, the next two months are reduced by about half, then the rest of the year is about half of that. In the end, the per diem will cover most rent--I may have to pay a little out of pocket during the last 8 months, but in the end, we should make out alright.

If I read the regs right, if I can show that I have received a hunting license from another state, I shouldn't have to take a hunters safety course. Is that your understanding as well? My son will get a New Mexico state hunter's safety certificate which should be recognized by VA. The other son will have to take the course since he's never had a hunting license.

Pardon the ignorance, but will my 30-06 with 3-9X variable scope be too much gun for VA deer? What kind/caliber of rifle would you recommend? Since I'm from the Western US, I have a hard time imagining shots within 100 yards. I have a rifled slug barrel for my Rem 870, but it sounds like it might be useless since buck shot only is allowed in some counties. Are there VA counties that allow slugs in shotguns?