Some of you have read about my father's illness (MID - multi infarct dementia)and how it has slowly stolen his bowhunting memories. As a reminder of how precious each of our memories are, I had Brian Wessel inlay a piece of antler from Dad's last buck into the handle of my Tall Tines recurve. It has certainly brought me luck. One day this past October my father and I traveled to one of our old hunting spots and - for a while, he remembered. I recently had the opportunity to reflect when I wrote a story about that day for the upcoming issue of TradArchers World. Hopefully, my words will cause others to pause and reflect on their own special relationships and of days spent together afield. Attached is a photo of the winter 2011 issue. That's Dad on the cover. Many thanks to Tom Colstad for publishing the photos and story. It means a lot to me.

(Note: Hit the F5 key to refresh the page if the image fails to download.)

 

Thanks Gary for reminding me to slow down and smell the roses.

 Can't wait to read this issue.


Bill

When does it hit news stands?

I understand completely.

i was lucky enough to have one of those days with my young nephew today. it was great.everyone take your time and make memories.

Thank you very much, my father is suffering from the same affliction.
He didn't hunt that much, but we spent many good times on the golf course.
It doesn't make much difference where or what you are doing, as long as you can do it together, which is what makes it worth while.

Good stuff.  My dad and I shared Alaska last year and usually at least one tejon pig hunt here in CA.  He isn't old, but I'm 33 and he isn't getting and younger.  He was my best man in my wedding and is my best friend to this day.

I am sorry to hear your dad has dimentia, it is not something I'd wish in my worst enemy.  Remember the good times.

I look forward to many more good times with you "Bop"...Alaska 2013 is a must!

i cant wait to read that. It must be very special to you.

Very nice.  I am anxious to read the article.

I miss my dad every day.

Thanks guys.  I think many of you will be able to relate to the story.

With the lose of my son (my hunting and fishing partner) I can relate:::THANKS

Good stuff.Look forward to reading.RC

I just gave Dad a copy of the magazine. He doesn't seem to want to let go of it:^)

Great stuff Gary .

I have done the same this year, several times with my wife, who also hunts with me, remembering good times afield. This weekend we were out hunting, was at the place where my son took his first deer at age 12. We lost himin a car accident     9 years ago he would have been 29 now. He was an avid hunter , took one or more deer every year after that. He enjoyed the getting together with all his fiends and mine, cooking big meals and the story telling that went on about each hunt more than getting game, remembering this helps keep me focused on what is really impotant in life.

The last few years my dad and I have done alot of hunting together. He's been going through a second childhood almost with his hunting. I have learned more about my dad and myself than I ever thought before. This last year my dad and I went on what we called his "last great hunt". We spent around 20 days hunting and probably just as much scouting. It's been real tough on me this season knowing this my be his last season. His body just can't do it much more. A hundred yard walk could wear him out somedays with bad hips, knees, dizzy spells ect.. The whole time he would just smile take plenty of breaks which was usually followd by a long story. I wished everyone could have the bond with thier father that I have. Sorry I don't mean to ramble so much it's just something that hits home with me. I am looking forward to reading your dads story thanks for sharing Gary.

Gary,

I envy the realationship you have had with your father...but not the illness that now robs.

My own dad didn't hunt much, till I got old enough, then I had to teach him about anything but rabbit hunting.

Mom was afraid to be alone, so his time afield was limited to day trips, but we got a few.

Now he lies in a nursing home bed sometimes clear minded, but a useless, wore out body that heart disease and a stroke have robbed of dignity and ability to do anything for himself.

As the Hospice Chaplin put it, visiting and spending time just being there is a "ministry of presence".

Prayers with you as you deal with this dreadful ailment.  I embrace your shared joy for the times you've had with your dad.  What a gift those times are!

I really appreciate all of your thoughts and comments. If the TAW story helps you reflect on your own relationships, and leads you to cherish them even more, then I have accomplished my goal.

Thanks for your reflections about your Dad and the memories. It will hold more meaning when I read it.

Serious reflection comes with maturity. It speaks of the ability to consider people and things other than our own selves. My best to you and your Dad.