Mary Ansel’s big Tom. Her story in her own words.
This is a story of a women going from hunter’s wife to hunter. I am a mom of four, and have, what I believe to be an adventuresome spirit. (After all I did marry Derek!) I have always considered myself on the sensitive side, and for years I couldn’t even swat a fly! Actually I was pretty much phobic of bugs, fish, frogs, and “wildlife” in general. Then it happened. I fell in love with an outdoorsman, whose family tree was rooted in hunting, fishing, camping, and just plain nature. What does a ballerina do in such a situation?
How I got to this point was a slow process. Most things worthwhile do take time. First it was trips up north with the kids. Watching them fish and catch frogs and just enjoy themselves with nature has to make any parent feel good. Dirty feet and dirty faces. I was beginning to see that “Dirt really doesn’t hurt!”
As my relationship with God has grown through the years I have become more and more content with the outdoors. I think at first if your mind isn’t used to the peace and quite of creation, it takes awhile to slow down and enjoy your surroundings. Once you do you can feel Gods presence in the air, and hear Him in the birds song. Not to mention the exhilarating smell of pine trees! I have come to understand that these things are truly gifts.
As the years have rolled on I have experienced many exciting hunts through my husband’s stories. Each season I think his passion for hunting rubs off on me a little more. Last year I actually was able to watch the hunting videos without covering my face when the hunt was happening. This winter my husband asked “Do you want to try turkey hunting this spring?” Hmmm. I did want to try it, but was I really cut out for hunting? Wouldn’t people laugh at me if I said I was going turkey hunting? Not you hunters, but to those people that don’t hunt turkey, it sounds a little like hunting for chickens! Was I ready to withstand the verbal taunts I might hear from friends and family? That’s where my adventurous spirit sad, “Sure!”
Before I knew it the plans were made. My mom and dad, and my sister and brother-in-law welcomed my kids into their homes for a few days. We are blessed to have a family that is willing to support us through life’s adventures.. The trip north was like any other northern Michigan trip, except there were fewer potty breaks, and fewer times being asked “Are we there yet?” Derek and I laughed at everything, just like when we were dating. I felt wonderful.
Mary Ansel
Next installment “The hunt begins.” You don’t want to miss it!
Mike
It’s always good to hear about a convert – a person who wasn’t around hunting, didn’t hunt, and now has come under our spell. My wife is the same way, and I enjoy every minute of the hunting and fishing trips we get to share together.
I’m looking forward to the next installment.