Target Practice

Living in Texas brings with it space. Space for hunting, fishing, camping, running...which can be a boys paradise. Last week, SH went with some friends and shot a rifle for the first time (under adult supervision). We hear about it incesantly.

Yesterday, Dave guided AP as he shot the BBGun for the first time. Pookie was in heaven.


Today- Cub Scout fishing tournament. SH was intent on getting the biggest, fattest fish. His competitive spirit shining brightly. Somehow his desire only lastest for about 10 minutes, the same time the turtles in the lake started poking their heads out of the water. A fresh target for SH. Loosing interest in them only when the ducks paddled close enough to aim for. As this is going on, I notice boys fishing nearby pack up and move to another spot, only to be replaced by an innocent new group of boys.


Another little while and SH is joined by his equally loud and energetic buddy, Ian. With him, comes live bait, worms. The boys proceed to test the stretching power of the harmless animals, not understanding that to attract the fish, quiet voices are needed. Meanwhile, our second set of neighbors abandon their spot.

Some action finally! SH's line gets pulled. It's a big one! He hands it to me for help. We pull and tug, attracting back those who left. Interested in our catch. Disappointment rears though when out of the water comes a dirty plastic grocery bag pulling water. Embarrashed that I wanted a picture with his catch SH drops it on the ground nearby. I was proud though, we were at least doing our part in helping to keep the environment clean, SH wasn't impressed with my rationalization. "No awards for that, mom".

One last catch before giving in for the day- the tree branch overhead.It now displays a nice red and white bobbin and 1/4 of an abused worm which I am sure is happy to be out of reach of two 9 year olds!!!