We wasted little time before trying out Brett's recently-acquired Coleman Journey canoe. We drove Mini Pearl to the large pond, and prepared the Journey for its maiden voyage (with us, anyway). The three-man canoe was a great success, although the fishing left much to be desired. Brett caught a few brim, but nothing big enough to consider keeping.
We landed on the far side of the pond and had a look around. We saw an old abandoned shed. We could neither confirm nor deny that the small structure was used to make and/or store moonshine, but we like to think it was. We came across some crazily brightly-colored wild mushrooms; no, we didn't eat them! We rowed back across the pond and managed to stay dry. I had taken a chance by bringing my iPhone with which to take pictures, and I was glad I didn't have to test the effectiveness of my makeshift double glad lock dry bag. The process of getting the three of us in and out of the canoe without anyone falling into the pond was quite a trust-building team exercise for the band. Disappointed with the catch, but not the canoe, we left it there at its new home.
Brett and Mikey decided to return to the smaller pond, where they had previously had more luck, and fish from the shore. I left them to jog the seven-mile round trip, with which I was now familiar, to downtown Halifax and back. Of course, as if waiting for their cue, I saw two rabbits on the property. I jogged to the small pond to check on the boys. They had been busy reeling in a number of good-sized bass, Brett nabbing the bulk of the catch.
It was dusk when I returned, and upon hearing I had spotted rabbits, Brett decided it was worth a try to grab his rifle and take the farm utility van out, even though we had been unsuccessful in our previous outings. This time would prove to be different (Rabbit lovers have been warned: Reader discretion is advised). After driving around the property for a while, Brett spotted a rabbit just past the treeline. He quietly stepped out of the van, aimed his .22 and fired. He walked into the woods to see the result of his shot. "I got 'im!" He reemerged triumphantly, rabbit in hand. Victory!
Brett took his evening's return to the shed, skinned the rabbit and filleted the bass. He stored the fish to cook tomorrow and seasoned the rabbit to make breakfast in the morning.
The three if us decided it was time for dinner. I proceeded to eat entirely too much of the rotisserie chicken, broccoli, rice, and black-eyed peas Papaw and Grammy had left for us. Brett was pleased with his day's work. He takes pride in knowing he can spend a little money on tools, supplies and ammunition and turn it into supper for himself and his kin. He is also quite skilled at deliciously preparing the food he procures. I look forward to partaking as he generously shares his catch with us tomorrow. Brett really loves it out here. It's nice to see him so happy.
Peace!
- Jon
Happiness!
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