Fall 2024 Upland Redemption: The Journey

So today is the secondish day and it consisted of driving.

And driving,

And more driving.

But it went splendidly. The weather was fantastic for the most part. There was enough sun behind me to charge the Bluetti to 53% so I can run the fan tonight and to charge the e-collars, keep the meat frozen, etc. There was a period of rain but it wasn’t too heavy–I can’t stand to drive in rain on freeways anymore–and then when the sun was in front of me, it was cloudy. It made for perfect driving. I got 12 hours in. That’s great, but I wanted to be at a hunting location first thing in the morning so the girls can hunt before it gets too warm. But, I failed. I can’t do night driving for long these days.

I stopped to get the girls out for a potty break a few times and to pick up some food for them because I forgot to take theirs out of the freezer this morning and it wouldn’t be thawed in time for their dinner. So, they are getting freeze-dried tonight. I drove past a Sportsman’s Warehouse by the pet store so I ran in to look for non-toxic ammo but they didn’t have any. I have to find that tomorrow.

It was so strange not to turn north to the Northwoods of the UP or Minnesota this trip. Strange and tugged at my heart and had me fighting off tears. Beautiful and sad memories flooded back, thinking of all the dogs, those gone now and the ones I think about every single day and wonder how they are and where they are, and if they are getting to hunt. And, as always, all the friends and great times. Another portion of this drive I’ve also been on before heading west to Colorado with my dad, my brother, my son, and others for Elk hunts. I would see something and could remember being in that spot and with whom. I am so grateful for the memories. Everything can be taken from you, but you’ll always–unless maybe we get dementia–have your memories.

This last portion and what will follow in the next 6 months, is unfamiliar territory. Forging a new chapter, breaking new ground in places I’ve never been. That is both exciting and terrifying. But we must challenge ourselves and face fears and live. Plus, bird dogs have to hunt birds, right?

We are settled in at a rest stop, which I try never to stay at but I couldn’t see well anymore and had to stop.

A big gripe I have is why don’t people clean up after themselves and their dogs? How can you not pick up your litter and your dog’s deposits? It is disgusting and this is how diseases that can kill puppies get spread. Pick up after your dog, at the very least in public areas!

Okay, that is all for tonight. I’m off to research more on the Sand Hills to hunt tomorrow! The days we get to hunt are precious and I want to make it count for the girls. I’m not sure when my next day off will be.

Love, M.