jode hillman
Well-known member
For all my friend here at Duckboats. I wanted to take some time and update you as to what has been going on around these parts. I completed demolition of my dearly beloved barn to make way for a new structure. It was bittersweet to see it go, but it was too badly charred to be saved. Starting fresh has it's benefits, hopefully allowing me to making upgrades that will be much needed.
I looked at several options and decided a pole barn would be the best fit for my current needs. Attached are some pics of the layout and framing. I have other pics as well, but can't figure out how to get them off of my old cell phone!
I also would like to take time to thank the multitude of friends, family, carvers, collectors and even strangers who have helped my family and I during the recent times. The outpouring of love and support has been overwhemling and often surprising. Without this help however I do not know how we could have survived the recent events. We are truly blessed and thank everyone for their past, present, and continued support. I am still a good ways off from being able to carve, but it feels good to be moving in a positive direction.
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Did I mention today was NJ Spring gobbler opener!
This morning started out cold for a NJ springtime, 31 degrees at 4:30 am. I did not have high hopes because in similar years spring cold fronts have slowe down the Gobbling activity but I wouldn't miss opening morning for anything. Especially after the year I have been having.
Because of what has been going on around here Re: the fire and rebuilding I only scouted one day this year, about two weeks ago. I heard one Gobble that morning.
Today started slow with no talk at all on the roost or anywhere I could here. So I set up in the woodlot along a logging road with a field edge 200 yards away. As the sun rose silience still ruled. About 6:30 I hear a far off gobble.
It seemed to come from the far end of the out of sight feild. Soon I heard a few more gobbles.
So I decided to move a little closer but still stay off the field and on the logging road.
After I was set up in my new position, I made a few cuts and one yelp to which there was no reply. I decided to wait. About 5 minutes later I hear very steady cruching of leaves coming thru the thick laurel on the other side of the trail. As I looked into the heavy cover I see a blue head about 40 yards out , appear and disapper in the brush.
Unfortunatley it was crossing left to right, but angleing slightly away from me. As the gobbler passed behind a tree I gave a real soft purr. He opened up and gobbled loudly, as did the BIGGER tom 10 yards behind him! This bigger Tom was coming straight in. When he stepped into a clearing at 15 yards I put the bead on his neck and lights went out!
This was the first opening day bird I have killed in several years and it sure was a great feeling and a boost to my mood! Unfortunatley i did not have a decoy to use but did call it in with one of my calls.
10 3/4" Beard, 1" spurs, 19 pounds.
Jode
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