[mobirdhunter]

I appreciate the kind comments from folks -- thanks!

We are closing out our two week hunt, which has offered us some memories of great weather, beautiful country, wonderful dogs and the birds we love so much. We also met some great people here in the Northwoods. This will be a trip to remember.

Our Fall color is pretty much gone now, and we are seeing the muted, rich color of the later season, remarkable in its subtle charm. Leaf drop happened pretty much over night, and with it the temperatures will drop, and, hopefully, the woodcock will be waiting for us in home coverts, which we'll hit next week.

Enjoy your season. Get out every chance you can.

Photos:

1. Sometimes I cannot believe how special it is to live with gun dogs. Having a puppy and a seasoned dog, seeing the future and its potential is a marvelous gift. Chris and Aaron, if you read this, I hope you've had some special moments with your pupils in training. Remember these days. They go by too quickly.

2. We switched out guns for this last week. One of three Parkers I have from this, one of my favorite, engraving periods. This gun, a 1918 CHE 20 that we call Reggie's gun is about as perfect a bird gun as I can imagine. A privilege to hunt with and care for.

3. We were able to catch up with PGCA member Bruce Day and Joe Weidle for dinner one evening. What a pleasure to visit with two gentlemen who love double guns and bird dogs. I got to see and hold a couple of Bruce's bird guns and now have dreams of a 24 inch 20 gauge bird gun. Joe is real dog lover and Elaine and I got to learn more about his dogs and Bruce's -- always a treat.

4&5. A trip with wonderful memories of beautiful country and the drama of nature. The last photo is the Big Fork river that we cross every evening on our way back to the Cabin. The view from the bridge is ever changing and never gets old.