Family Bonding

When I was a little girl, my dad used to take me to a place called The Palace. It is a run down shack in the woods with no electricity or running water. He and his buddies have used it as a hunting and fishing cabin since before I was born. We spent lots of quality time there; Dad, Tim and myself. It took me years to realize that maybe The Palace was a funny name for the place, because I was always happy to be there. Maybe that was early training for Peace Corps living?

Tim and I grew up shooting a bow and arrow and our BB gun until we were old enough to take a hunter's safety course. Then we were taught all about responsible gun ownership and use (some of you are probably trying to figure out what this world traveling, city dwelling, liberal woman is doing writing about guns) and were allowed to go hunting and target shooting with dad.

Now, I don't own any firearms, it's just too much work for my present living situation and budget. But, every time I go home, I make it a point to spent some quality time out at the club with my dad, shooting sporting clays. When I was home in September, we made it a family outing. For the first time ever, the four of us went shooting together. So much fun! I hope it becomes a new family tradition whenever I'm home.

Here's a glimpse into my Wisconsin life that might take some of you by surprise. You would have probably never guessed that I'm actually a pretty good shot!

(What a beautiful day to shoot.)

(Tim, Mom, Dad.)

(See that bright orange clay pigeon? It's moving really fast. This was by far the most fun station, because when you hit the bird correctly, it just disappears into thin air.)

(Me shooting, with mom pulling and keeping score.)

(What a great family photo!)