I am from a 54-year old house—

grey siding, tucked in the woods,

consumed by oak trees,

deer, and turkeys.

I am from hard work and dedication—

callused hands, body aches, and worn out boots.

“If you are not going to work hard,

don’t bother working.”

I am from a 179 acre farm in Dodge county—

ample wildlife, impeccable scenery, prime habitat:

thousands of oak trees, 28 acres of native prairie,

and 15 acres of food plots.

I am from a duck blind—

crisp mornings in the marsh with friends

and family waiting for the prized drake mallard to

“come from the heavens.”

I am from a treestand—

25 feet above the ground watching the woods,

anticipating, waiting for that mature

buck to come into range.