The longer I am connected to this site the more I realize that there are many like minded people out there.
I spent so much time in the woods as a boy. Many times being grounded by my Parents for losing track of time and being late for dinner.
Always had a maple sapling bow and golden rod arrows in my hand. Always exploring new areas.
I love tradition and being a traditional Bowhunter has allowed me to revisit those days with a stick and string in my hand.
At 53, I am reliving those days in my youth.
Adventures indeed!

I had the exact discussion with my wife a couple of weeks ago.  It's gotten harder to leave the family but once the first cool winds blow I can't deny the feeling like I need to be in the woods.  Like breeding dogs for instance, certain traits are enhanced or pass on with time.  Fewer and fewer men seem to be programmed to provide by taking to the sacred arts of being the ultimate predator.  I feel fortunate to still have the fire burning.

Very well stated.

Fantastic post.  Luckily, I have a wife who understands that if she lets me go hunting and refreshing my soul with some outdoor therapy, I'm much happier at home.  Keep me from the outdoors too long and I get grumpy.  Lol!

Well said!

Never thought that hard about it. I just know I GOT TO GO! I stay around the house in the off season and do what ever the wife wants. Come fall she wants me to hunt.

Couldn't have said it better

My family has always been understanding. I was a very serious hunter before I had a family, so the fall has always been my time,except for big deal events or work related issues. Fortunately when my son got old enough to follow me to the woods, he would sometimes accompany me, even though he never became as serious about hunting as me. My wife and daughter just figured it left them free to head for the mall.

I did have a chance to look at the book "Wild at Heart" since you guys mentioned it. The first chapter is right on the money so far!

I think about the balance between family and the outdoors a lot. I wish there wasn't a difference between outdoor time and family time, but they don't like places without plumbing very much.

This season has kept me indoors way too long with sports and college courses. Hopefully, I will be out there soon. I don't think I can stand it much longer!

I put up this post up because I don't just like to go sit in any tree. I like to do more and go further into big woods if I have the chance to get there. I am happy sitting in the woods, but the bigger "adventure" of climbing the hills satisfies me more. I think it does for most of you too.

I didn't understand what that inner desire was and now I get it. Men are made for more than microwaves, cable television and easy chairs. We were designed to test ourselves and push our limits. We can't help it.

Think of your favorite all time movie. Is it about a computer programmer that sits in a cubicle all day? No! It is Braveheart, The Patriot, Last of the Mohicans, or similar movies. The need for adventure moves us to wild and beautiful places.

So, for my dream hunts, do I need to go kill an elk or moose? Not necessarily, but I DO need to see those mountains and wilderness bogs or float down a stream in the Yukon Territory. I DO NEED to see if I come out in one piece! It's about the adventure of it!

Now I know how to answer when my wife asks; Can't you just go hunt somewhere close? Why do you have to travel out west or go to Alaska?

The answer; Nope, I have to go test myself, be myself and challenge myself in unknown places. Those places are waiting and one of these days I will be there in the middle of it. Hopefully in the middle of a bigger adventure than I imagined!

I needed that post today. thanks!

Well said .
Like the book by Pat McManus : A fine and pleasant misery .  

I hope to be there beside you bro.  

great post.  ive never been able to put into words the draw to the wild, but it tugs at me yearlong.  and god willing it always will.

Well said, sir. I feel that way often. Having to prioritize between responsibility & sanity.