tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-347981902024-02-28T09:33:54.331-05:00Eastern Shore OutdoorsA collection of observations, reflections, ideas and considerations on outdoor pursuits on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay.Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-42680151921728586872015-12-25T22:40:00.000-05:002015-12-25T22:42:20.409-05:00Merry Christmas!!<br />
Merry Christmas to All!<br />
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Thank you to all who have visited my site and provided feedback.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Merry Merry!!</td></tr>
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Warm weather is great for end of year cycling! Thanks Santa!<br />
#Santa Rides365!Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-4664351280080928212015-10-01T16:43:00.003-04:002015-10-03T00:52:12.871-04:00The Warm Blanket of Darkness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piercing the Darkness</td></tr>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Being part of the outdoors means, at some point, allowing yourself to be absorbed by the world around you. That may occur in a hot dove field waiting for the day to start, listening to the wind blowing through a sunflower field; or cruising out on the water watching it pass by you as you take in the changing landscape, heading to the tranquility of a favorite fishing spot, waiting to feel the rocking of the boat as you cast to the quiet waters.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The ability to get out and enjoy the outdoors is only hampered by your imagination. With shotgun or bow, on a kayak, center console, sailboat, or using your leg power for propulsion, there are enough places to go and things to see, that you are the only one keeping you from enjoying the outdoors.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-ce148e27-2522-0a29-96f7-9f3583104e9a" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> When the new year began, I reviewed how much time I had spent outdoors in the previous year and was disappointed. Fortunate to live in an area with an abundance of outdoor opportunities, I needed to do better this year.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Cycling has been my sport of choice for bettering my body, mind and spirit. Since I moved to the Eastern Shore in 2005, I have logged over 12,000 miles on local roads, exploring those quiet country lanes and wide open rural roads. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cone of Silence (extra points for the reference)</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Riding before the sun rises, a headlamp illuminating a cone of light in front of my front wheel, I feel the darkness envelop me as I become more aware of my surroundings. Noises of animals are heightened by the stillness of the morning, and I have to concentrate my focus on the road, as my vision is impaired by the low light. As children, we are scared by the darkness, not knowing what is beyond the veil of impenetrable darkness. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> As I rode in the darkness, the other day, with stars my only source of natural illumination, I thought of one of my first jobs. My shift was 3-11 pm and I walked to work through woods every day. The woods walk was about a mile and the only natural obstacle was a creek 8 to 10 feet across. Raining or snowing was of no concern, as I had the proper gear and took the same path every time. This route home, became the highlight of my day. Once I was familiar with the route and trail, with its nuanced curves and the log crossing over the creek, I began to enjoy walking out of the light and into the darkness of the woods. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> My eyes would adjust to the darkness and my hearing would become hyper sensitive: I was not an interloper within this lush, green world; I was embraced by the woods and the darkness. I was merely passing through, taking nothing and leaving only a worn trail. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning has Broken</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"> This is the same feeling I get every morning and the only downside to being a witness to a magnificent sunrise as the eastern skies explode in color is that I must remove that blanket of darkness that kept me warm in the cool morning darkness: an ethereal object more beautiful than the sun. </span><br />
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Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-19577911446976223362015-04-17T08:42:00.002-04:002015-04-17T08:42:27.057-04:00Iron Horse Haiku<i>Written from the saddle of my Iron Horse:</i><br />
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More deer than people</div>
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Cross the empty rural road</div>
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I hear only birds</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Saddle<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Oak<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skeleton on the Miles River</td></tr>
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Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-73231194587761677502014-11-19T14:10:00.000-05:002014-11-20T23:38:16.848-05:00Waterfowl Festival 2014<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bronze Statue Detail at Armory in Easton, MD</td></tr>
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The crisp Fall weather seems to arrive when the Waterfowl Festival is in Easton. Last Friday and Saturday were cool with abundant sunshine and the clouds rolled in on Sunday. The weather did not<br />
dampen the spirit of the festival and town and the event locations were packed with locals and visitors.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking down Harrison Street toward the Tidewater Inn</td></tr>
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In the historic district, the armory was brimming with those admiring oil and watercolors, while the<br />
Art Academy housed hyper realistic carved wildfowl. Incorporation of a “crab and a lab” in one frame generates added interest as it shows off those quintessential Eastern Shore icons. Add a goose or goose blind and you have the trifecta!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In watercolor, this would be a Show Stopper: Old Bay, Shells, Lure, Rod and Remington!</td></tr>
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Nearby at Easton High School, the air was filled with goose calls, as contestants vied for champion caller bragging rights (and a new Benelli). In the adjoining hall, there were historic displays of punt guns and sinkbox blinds. A buy/sell/trade swap area allowed for great buys for vintage decoys<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFyBYVawi6mb1pjOmkjrkhCcRnSfqpmqQJRArNbFanlRIu9JYKfZZm8VkKc72SIC2L8Gk0AW_qDFtpmhFpWzS7sAEWulMHaR3-HrtykRlkXcYeCeh7d5hR587zgJGTG2HPhCM/s1600/IMG_1175%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFyBYVawi6mb1pjOmkjrkhCcRnSfqpmqQJRArNbFanlRIu9JYKfZZm8VkKc72SIC2L8Gk0AW_qDFtpmhFpWzS7sAEWulMHaR3-HrtykRlkXcYeCeh7d5hR587zgJGTG2HPhCM/s1600/IMG_1175%5B1%5D.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local Favorites</td></tr>
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An recent event addition is the Dock Dogs competition, where dogs simulate a duck retrieve, as they run and jump into a large pool. This is a crowd favorite and the kids love it, as they see dogs jump in excess of twenty feet into the cool water.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1HH8DQm8D5I4zfHZLnvltTJIFd7gjHIiOpozxYkIU76AotMPVFiIRkkLdhexsvNtWsfSCJLlS_To9hIH6FcHEApV21_1n_ClczB5gFH4gT2EHdyP4YDsX9c0fYbw1_9R0sp6/s1600/P1120298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1HH8DQm8D5I4zfHZLnvltTJIFd7gjHIiOpozxYkIU76AotMPVFiIRkkLdhexsvNtWsfSCJLlS_To9hIH6FcHEApV21_1n_ClczB5gFH4gT2EHdyP4YDsX9c0fYbw1_9R0sp6/s1600/P1120298.jpg" height="353" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Happy Lab!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Focused Chesapeake Bay Lab</td></tr>
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This festival brings in much needed revenue into a rural area that has a high poverty rate. Staffed mainly by volunteers, the Waterfowl Festival showcases a true Eastern Shore maxim: celebrate the outdoors, while ensuring, that through conservation, it is available to future generations.Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-82020898981933878292014-11-04T16:31:00.000-05:002014-11-20T23:38:36.283-05:00In My Own Backyard<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Gem of a Find: Willey Knives</td></tr>
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Along a popular route to the Delaware beaches and tucked away off Route 16 near Greenwood, Delaware is a Gem of a Find. Who knew that so close to home is a knife shop that boasts over 2,000 knives in stock, including Benchmade, Chris Reeve, ESEE, Cold Steel, as well as Buck, Gerber, Leatherman, Victorinox, and many other popular brands.<br />
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Willey Knives is a family run business, set on a small farm in an unassuming brick house. Entering through the side door and walking down the stairs to the basement showroom, I stepped into a den of cutlery nirvana.<br />
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With a very diversified selection, I was impressed kitchen cutlery was so well represented, and for good measure. These are the knives we use every day, and they take a pounding. With Henkel, Wustof, Shun and others, you will find that perfect paring or chef's knife.<br />
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I was equally impressed with the customer service, who were knowledgeable, very friendly and had all the specs down on most of the inventory. With so much inventory, it is tough to keep grind, blade steel and knife designers straight, but they did a great job of it. Matt, in particular, provided some information gained from hunts using knives with S30V super steel. This was the blade steel on the object of my attention, the Benchmade Saddle Hunter fixed blade. With a full tang and a 4" modified clip point, this felt great in the hand and would excel as a bird and trout knife.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Benchmade Saddle Hunter: priced below MSRP and tax free!</td></tr>
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While I may save by buying from sites, like eBay or KnifeCenter, I feel a need to: 1) support a local business, and 2) be able to take the knife in hand and see how it handles. Like cars and firearms, edged tools also share the characteristic that they must feel as though an extension of your body.<br />
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The Wildfowl Ninja found his "blademate" in an Ontario RAT 2, a folder priced far below its quality level. With a good fit to his hand, the knife is inherently safer.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ontario RAT 2: great value folder!</td></tr>
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He was the only one to walk out with new steel. I guess I will have to go back and spend another hour in cutlery nirvana.<br />
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Contact Info:<br />
www.willeyknives.com<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">14210 Sugar Hill Road</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Greenwood, DE 19950</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Ph. 302-349-4070</span></span><br />
<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-67807007352171630082014-09-27T09:55:00.004-04:002014-09-27T09:58:41.656-04:00Microadventures<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YYLUphn4nDPtbUt8UhsMnRktK853R9DTX3pkA-ZPdEcvCwYVUiIguTDWJwe0_PQS8QNakptA4qQHR2Vg86PnJAsDsqrURVnYjE4whoa3gxHrrj5oX0fqXaHQalOStPp5NeV7/s1600/IMG_0744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YYLUphn4nDPtbUt8UhsMnRktK853R9DTX3pkA-ZPdEcvCwYVUiIguTDWJwe0_PQS8QNakptA4qQHR2Vg86PnJAsDsqrURVnYjE4whoa3gxHrrj5oX0fqXaHQalOStPp5NeV7/s1600/IMG_0744.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right Outside Your Office Door!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> British Adventurer Alastair Humphreys, who cycled around the globe as a teenager and has been involved in highly technical expeditions, describes microadventures this way, “…you do not </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">need</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to fly to the other side of the planet to undertake an expedition. You do not need to be an elite athlete, expertly trained or rich to have an adventure. Adventure is only a state of mind. I believe that adventure is about stretching yourself: mentally, physically or culturally…adventure is all around us, at all times. Adventure is accessible to normal people, in normal places, in short segments of time and without having to spend much money”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> When the Waterfowl Ninja returned from wilderness mountain training in Colorado in August, all he talked about was getting back on the hiking trail. With no hills on the Eastern Shore, I suggested our own microadventure. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Leaving from work, on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, we drove ~ 12 miles to hike the forested valleys and ridges of Patapsco State Park. With some steep sections and a beautiful waterfall, we hiked five miles and discussed bushcraft and outdoor skills. It was a great venue to discuss his trip and enjoy the outdoors minutes from the office door.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9IJD2D9zGLtdrzByBi7rcXz6AuiKcSVjGpIL3jy3tSBYfbHjk8V5IF9s3OPAfptS3kcquEeDkE5DTQssAWq9HsZpclVrjGi35SXgt6r7kJ3e0OuCf4ElrSeXIU2ciAze22cO/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9IJD2D9zGLtdrzByBi7rcXz6AuiKcSVjGpIL3jy3tSBYfbHjk8V5IF9s3OPAfptS3kcquEeDkE5DTQssAWq9HsZpclVrjGi35SXgt6r7kJ3e0OuCf4ElrSeXIU2ciAze22cO/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely Waterfalls at Patapsco</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> We all have ideas of a grand adventure. Recently, I have been thinking of travelling through Idaho and hiking through areas where my great great grandfather settled as the 4</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 9px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;">th</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> white settler in the state, or of taking the Whaler on an overnight and exploring the waterways of the Eastern Shore. But those take planning, crew and cash. I will complete those adventures, but in the meantime, I can go Micro!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A few quick ideas:</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grab my trusty Gregory Day and a Half; load it up; grab a fellow adventurer; and jump in the Mini for a Micro. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Launch the boat/kayak from a new spot and hunt birds and wildlife with a camera.</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pedal my bike home from a family jaunt to a nearby town.</span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-0c8e3b79-b748-2cd3-f1f6-c95076bac6a2"></span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-top: 5pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Humphreys has hung up his climbing harness and leads work weary Britons on overnight microadventures. They leave work, take the train out of London, hike to a rural spot and “bivy up” for the night. Waking up fresh in the outdoors, they take the train in from the country and arrive at work smelling like daisies. Literally. </span></div>
Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-40023259387609588952014-03-02T22:18:00.000-05:002014-11-20T23:38:54.630-05:00Gear Review: UST Sparkie Firestarter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/0ynxFrpBgUo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-1c0c5ee5-8475-33af-9fc0-03cbaee9765a"></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"He worked slowly and carefully, keenly aware of his danger. Gradually, as the flame grew stronger, he increased the size of the twigs with which he fed it. He squatted in the snow, pulling the twigs out from their entanglement in the brush and feeding directly to the flame. He knew there must be no failure" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17.25px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The quote from <i>To Build a Fire</i>, by Jack London suggests the methodical nature of proper fire building and its immediacy and critical nature for survival. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17.25px; white-space: pre-wrap;">While the fire building triangle of Heat, Fuel and Oxygen remains a constant, new technologies and materials have allowed man to build a fire quickly with safe, reliable products. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17.25px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Sparkie, produced by Ultimate Survival Technologies is a great example of these new products. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17.25px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Inexpensive; solidly built; simple to use. $~5 at </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17.25px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Walmart</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17.25px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17.25px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://www.ultimatesurvival.com/" target="_blank">www.ultimatesurvival.com</a></span></div>
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Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-85472304956014726902014-01-15T19:23:00.001-05:002014-11-20T23:39:11.500-05:00Opening Day of Goose Season 2013<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDmRHqkEVqq2ZBfbxCDlWaHThbyMwF4CuIwlDyiZYuTOOmbKOy0DempjBFxSuVdhRYRb3I3af0MWrrTSBe2r8Ggb_XTaXKYO-xMHGTLpJCmHoif9ArBhiX3UiBHqDVwZV6EGt/s1600/P1010001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDmRHqkEVqq2ZBfbxCDlWaHThbyMwF4CuIwlDyiZYuTOOmbKOy0DempjBFxSuVdhRYRb3I3af0MWrrTSBe2r8Ggb_XTaXKYO-xMHGTLpJCmHoif9ArBhiX3UiBHqDVwZV6EGt/s1600/P1010001.JPG" height="280" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brushed and Ready for Opening Day</td></tr>
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Gear stacked up on the first floor ready to put in the car, we sat before dawn in silence eating breakfast, watching the minutes tick away as we waited to leave. It was opening day of goose season 2013. Not unlike Christmas, you end up waking up every half hour waiting for the alarm to go off triggering next season's escapades. We were invited by John to shoot the piano blind we helped build about a month before and highlighted in a previous post. The blind was well brushed with cedar and bayberry over the roof.<br />
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As we drove across the field with the decoys in the utility trailer behind us, it came into view. Today, there would be ten of us hunting two different blinds: five in the new blind and the others in a blind build decades before, of the same construction. It was in an adjoining field and the blinds were at 90 degree angles to one another, so there was no chance of a sudden shower of steel from an errant shot.<br />
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The ~ four dozen decoys in a open pattern of "pods" allowed a nice landing zone. It was warm, 48 degrees, and wet and we dressed for it. Cloudy overnight, it had been close to a full moon the last few days and I was hoping that the geese had not fed under the fall moon. We set up and waited. Before long, the sound of birds behind us filled the air and many were passing between two bodies of water, as we were on a peninsula. They did not seem to be hungry and were just buzzing by and checking out the action on the ground. There were only two or three sets that circled, out of close to two dozen flights of birds, which seemed to us that they were not interested in food.<br />
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Early in the season and with the warm weather, there was no reason to fatten up for the cold of winter. As the morning went on, I stepped out of the blind to see if there was any items that were catching their attention and making them flare. We caught up on conversation as the geese did fly-bys just out of range. I enjoyed having the Wildfowl Ninja in my blind, who was picking up sage advice from the group of seasoned hunters.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uLXuTgkhyphenhyphenG9czrx20yo43PlA-MHN_9UorjFsBDr5IMr8Oib9mV0O2QRA1ctxIxmUN1eNi7H5l37Aw6NuUM91DwYhgesByA1u8_R7Eprn97gDV46qgm2jTUEoflbsPqBN0Eit/s1600/P1010011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uLXuTgkhyphenhyphenG9czrx20yo43PlA-MHN_9UorjFsBDr5IMr8Oib9mV0O2QRA1ctxIxmUN1eNi7H5l37Aw6NuUM91DwYhgesByA1u8_R7Eprn97gDV46qgm2jTUEoflbsPqBN0Eit/s1600/P1010011.JPG" height="375" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Wildfowl Ninja Casts a Knowing Look</td></tr>
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As we called, a pair appeared and passed behind us and drifted in quick off the left side of the blind, silently gliding. They locked up their wings and we let the youngest in the group get ready (reference picture above), and as the two passed our blind about 25 yards out, the shells started ejecting. The lead bird on the right crumpled and spun into the ground. The second bird turned back to the left and before he could gain altitude, he was hit and fell into our decoys. Loping out into the field, Tucker, a beautiful Weimaraner, collected the birds and brought them back with a spring in his step.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFHhZiAKOW7b43l0kJGKDp89deZPJafrVV4asQIeGEbRy-EHaiZYTocWWPCAhPGsHhjZvTZwOle_FBaOK3bo7UHbFuvfq6cCh6Y-z5xykpJ72qNRuG4bwUJH9jnZTF0YZ1AQX/s1600/P1010016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFHhZiAKOW7b43l0kJGKDp89deZPJafrVV4asQIeGEbRy-EHaiZYTocWWPCAhPGsHhjZvTZwOle_FBaOK3bo7UHbFuvfq6cCh6Y-z5xykpJ72qNRuG4bwUJH9jnZTF0YZ1AQX/s1600/P1010016.JPG" height="320" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tucker in His Element</td></tr>
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As the morning progressed, we dined on incredible smoked goose on a fresh slice of sourdough, as well as fresh figs. We also had to have the requisite ESO Opening Day delight, the venerable Pop-Tart.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdg6WGOCSKGYS4SSy0lWA3ZofbMj9bTkmE5Cobj0Ot4ZkncNPHQJFchXK7kCWDv1SAeQ5W5AfN9AQM0q03XszLIoHEO0JFVivX3VM-hiO6nKE-AmHDWtOGerPnyTt0RtLk3sm/s1600/P1010007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdg6WGOCSKGYS4SSy0lWA3ZofbMj9bTkmE5Cobj0Ot4ZkncNPHQJFchXK7kCWDv1SAeQ5W5AfN9AQM0q03XszLIoHEO0JFVivX3VM-hiO6nKE-AmHDWtOGerPnyTt0RtLk3sm/s1600/P1010007.JPG" height="640" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">Smoked Goose on Sourdough and Hevi-Shot: a Deadly Combination</span></td></tr>
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Later, another flight landed at the edge of decoys, near the range decoy but were too far out for a good kill shot. Approaching noon, the realization that the geese weren't committing set in and we packed up our decoys.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKqMNLWIvdLnAU0cdhA7aaAg8sIUmvIHc66LlXZa56WolbV1QA3TEx7oAX-fXDJR372nO4fbiOtZAbEksiOrpOVe0gH6yjXHvDmPFbZsFKNluv2qELAwWB0LeeKs7GmW-RoAU/s1600/P1010018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKqMNLWIvdLnAU0cdhA7aaAg8sIUmvIHc66LlXZa56WolbV1QA3TEx7oAX-fXDJR372nO4fbiOtZAbEksiOrpOVe0gH6yjXHvDmPFbZsFKNluv2qELAwWB0LeeKs7GmW-RoAU/s1600/P1010018.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packing up the Dekes</td></tr>
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At which point, the skies are crowded with birds in passing range. It always happens.<br />
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I breasted, brined and marinaded the goose breasts. It was a good start to the season: I didn't forget anything for the field; decoys were in great shape, and we were successful in bringing birds to our spreads.<br />
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It dawned on me that there was a shift in my definition of a successful hunt. There is as much to gain from the experience and collective wisdom in the blind, as there is from shooting out of it. <br />
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Do I have to fill the pot to bring home what I need?<br />
<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-88287725079691692282013-11-19T20:54:00.003-05:002013-11-20T10:18:38.660-05:00T Minus 10 Seconds and Counting..........<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKksJEhhwjrBMtx-JrCIgPwkUXC_ObdFGHEh9hKduxvorKiiQ43j-4Lo4w58-2ZJVnEr1N3BT-BbUaHKZf1g8N3UAUr4M38bGr0DquShldQxOyawD1ZejFBPjt_OSBfjfTs5oJ/s1600/P1070094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKksJEhhwjrBMtx-JrCIgPwkUXC_ObdFGHEh9hKduxvorKiiQ43j-4Lo4w58-2ZJVnEr1N3BT-BbUaHKZf1g8N3UAUr4M38bGr0DquShldQxOyawD1ZejFBPjt_OSBfjfTs5oJ/s400/P1070094.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haloed Moon</td></tr>
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This evening, as the halo of the moon kept my camera's and my focus, the Minotaur I satellite was priming for launch from the NASA Wallops Island facility. Near Chincoteague, VA, the rocket sets a record of delivering 29 satellites (28 cubesats and 2 non-separating tertiary payloads) into LEO, or Low Earth Orbit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKcsthjMm_syjaxQAXOg59Wj5qf1iJ_QyXp6Vmxnu9eGuZNp2bMryFQ_ngtDvRslUmYlHV6cZS7bDMaG1vEbEqPOR3b3yg_6a5hnixIkbBkHvAoco0SDfo-luX6JY2x01EGhj2/s1600/P1070097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKcsthjMm_syjaxQAXOg59Wj5qf1iJ_QyXp6Vmxnu9eGuZNp2bMryFQ_ngtDvRslUmYlHV6cZS7bDMaG1vEbEqPOR3b3yg_6a5hnixIkbBkHvAoco0SDfo-luX6JY2x01EGhj2/s400/P1070097.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minotaur Ascends with Stage Separation</td></tr>
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The orange glow of the rockets illuminated through the trees and passed above the oak as we watched from ESO Mission Control. As it followed a graceful arc, I could see the separation of the stages as they peeled away from the rocket, briefly illuminated by the fiery thrust. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPpBEx0GMzpdLavtHdB7u2sL7WEBHA2VKUYW1ZLy0ZwgXezxKA1bO4kJ0oe2ZQ3EZjF2TthE1aLKAGhYq5CvZxHMc4a7H2xW4Pg6mR-5WgiKTzFc_TM9EE2AHz9DBjU2VgAGB/s1600/P1070098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPpBEx0GMzpdLavtHdB7u2sL7WEBHA2VKUYW1ZLy0ZwgXezxKA1bO4kJ0oe2ZQ3EZjF2TthE1aLKAGhYq5CvZxHMc4a7H2xW4Pg6mR-5WgiKTzFc_TM9EE2AHz9DBjU2VgAGB/s400/P1070098.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Accelerating to the Heavens</td></tr>
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As the Orbital Sciences rocket accelerated out of view, I am reminded of a quote from Alan Shepard:<br />
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"It's a very sobering feeling to be up in space and realize that one's safety was determined by the lowest bidder on a government contract"<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"</span>Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-45845588298079812492013-11-08T19:48:00.003-05:002014-11-20T23:39:23.978-05:00Opening Day of Waterfowl Festival<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX1VH9Puo9cqPxkeDCBSiGGfZNvtQh4U0RfxWYHsSpr-p6W96RcRkPk8J8ragnk_TAzbu8MJqpc13KV1GE61c1C1IluumdG60QWiuVClSfbWFSXEZZUMCHToYn2B3QdUFVBr0U/s1600/P1060826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX1VH9Puo9cqPxkeDCBSiGGfZNvtQh4U0RfxWYHsSpr-p6W96RcRkPk8J8ragnk_TAzbu8MJqpc13KV1GE61c1C1IluumdG60QWiuVClSfbWFSXEZZUMCHToYn2B3QdUFVBr0U/s320/P1060826.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blues Skies</td></tr>
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After yesterday's rain and wind provided a cleaning to my town's colonial streets and brick structures, the sun came out in full brilliance to illuminate the first day of the three day Waterfowl Festival.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWDdr9Fo6pbGLPlwsaXilgH3mFFlEl_8rLehke7eZOWVaK54OCBDTFtdPVwiNfMDmUzFLgOR09Ijl0fyQzPWXcvP3mZbt-PYv_nILgs6b6cp3nqSehxuG-1alRDI-bQo6hZ3K/s1600/P1060793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWDdr9Fo6pbGLPlwsaXilgH3mFFlEl_8rLehke7eZOWVaK54OCBDTFtdPVwiNfMDmUzFLgOR09Ijl0fyQzPWXcvP3mZbt-PYv_nILgs6b6cp3nqSehxuG-1alRDI-bQo6hZ3K/s320/P1060793.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Layout at the Tidewater</td></tr>
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With my media pass and camera in hand, I set out to talk to local craftsmen and artists, conservationists and sporting industry reps. There is much to be seen and experienced. As I walked through town, I came across three bands filling the air with Celtic ballads, Blues and Folk music, and the aroma of cream of crab soup drifted momentarily before a gust of air pushed it out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsn-_AgB26Nig24gDrr3CxGvRkESDWXPRPnQcfK5Mo4-EyDTOZ3zRV80OAPY-NbR6ztkwoZA67LK76oTli6-VjiZ4WJbzEThsGxKkb7EghnkNCjiK7FyFSLFanQ-mJX2352tAJ/s1600/P1060773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsn-_AgB26Nig24gDrr3CxGvRkESDWXPRPnQcfK5Mo4-EyDTOZ3zRV80OAPY-NbR6ztkwoZA67LK76oTli6-VjiZ4WJbzEThsGxKkb7EghnkNCjiK7FyFSLFanQ-mJX2352tAJ/s320/P1060773.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughter at the Academy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rockin' the Strat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7ItTtQJJLSE3EYMCGzz-ec0A2ChzzP47w6vnzZ-pQSQ3hR2RT4a_7qn2EZLlE7YT96rYaAnMch3AWaSTvfmmbU18gmGJHEfSAnmqTAze16Yo5UTvDEYwPjfspP2lqbY6MCUY/s1600/P1060833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7ItTtQJJLSE3EYMCGzz-ec0A2ChzzP47w6vnzZ-pQSQ3hR2RT4a_7qn2EZLlE7YT96rYaAnMch3AWaSTvfmmbU18gmGJHEfSAnmqTAze16Yo5UTvDEYwPjfspP2lqbY6MCUY/s320/P1060833.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoors at the Bartlett Pear Inn</td></tr>
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From the world's oldest industrial company, Beretta of Italy, over 500 hundred years old, to local world renowned duck and goose call maker, Sean Mann, many facets of the sporting life are here and the crowd is aa vibrant as the fall leaves overhead.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beretta Mobile Showroom</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Mann Calls at Albright's</td></tr>
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With many venues across town and activities for </div>
all ages, this festival should be on the "bucket list" of any serious waterfowler, or purveyor of fine art, and of course, aficionado of crap soup...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art at the Armory</td></tr>
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<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-81036063384556688672013-11-04T17:46:00.001-05:002013-11-04T18:47:47.446-05:00The Third Time's A Charm<div dir="ltr" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwpfKY3Vvh1mXFkD_pLagUEIsK29eeAgdIpeHgAw_mzeFZiuGFbHmS3vCWfQmTZL6miMBSK2pD_DhhzXvdulEbJmIKl9XjZQoxcCZCw_TBy-2rnNWPRu-4X-PtvbXmokc8lXr/s1600/P1010080+slim+jim+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwpfKY3Vvh1mXFkD_pLagUEIsK29eeAgdIpeHgAw_mzeFZiuGFbHmS3vCWfQmTZL6miMBSK2pD_DhhzXvdulEbJmIKl9XjZQoxcCZCw_TBy-2rnNWPRu-4X-PtvbXmokc8lXr/s400/P1010080+slim+jim+2.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Where's Waldo? </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.1500000000000001; white-space: pre-wrap;"> “Do you have a yardstick?” I asked the young man behind the counter, as I look at the bolt of Wetlands camo burlap five feet tall. He apologized for it not being out, explaining that he had just started at the hunting and fishing store on MD Route 50, a few miles from the Bay Bridge, gateway to the Eastern Shore. This must be an after school gig, I figured, as I eyed the cherubic lad. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.1500000000000001; white-space: pre-wrap;"> As he measured, I commented that a yard was 36” and not the 48” he had in hand. “Oh yeah, that’s right”, he responded, as he shortened his measurement. As we finished up, he tugged more off the bolt. “Here is some extra, in case you need it”, he said, as he scissored the coarse cloth. </span><br />
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> As the Wildfowl Ninja and I carried all of our supplies across the field yesterday, I was pleased that the overnight rain had softened the ground, to provide advantage in pounding the metal stakes a foot into the ground. Our project was simple: build a screen blind for hunting geese in a plowed corn field. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> As we trudged across the field and the Ninja fell behind under the weight of the mason’s bag filled with hand sledge, a kukri and assorted hand tools, I continued my diatribe. “The first time you do something it takes three times longer; the second time twice as long , and the third time is a slam dunk”, I offered, repeating the phrase a colleague had made, while I was working at a global consulting firm. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And this was our third screen blind, having built two last year on this property. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3kPwmc-ITM8HJQuLnWWPytATXW8GGKVPDJBTm7llIc9d-PC3CdGjPAhXukrdDQ_iC8lXl0Sn2A1fp8F6XlVJTFEllYCYWMhBZmHutunGxSkQImOOX_aXJfdKnWN7-65lzBHR/s1600/P1010063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3kPwmc-ITM8HJQuLnWWPytATXW8GGKVPDJBTm7llIc9d-PC3CdGjPAhXukrdDQ_iC8lXl0Sn2A1fp8F6XlVJTFEllYCYWMhBZmHutunGxSkQImOOX_aXJfdKnWN7-65lzBHR/s400/P1010063.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Insta-Blind: Just Add Elbow Grease!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Using three six foot metal fence stakes, 48” green vinyl perimeter fencing and camo burlap, we decided to set the blind on the edge of a plowed corn field. </span></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">With our backs in a growth of tall grasses and small bushes, the blind </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.1500000000000001; white-space: pre-wrap;">would be facing north, and in front of us would be ample room to set up decoy spread scenarios.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> All of our materials and tools at the ready, I measured the blind length. We decided on close to eight feet, with it slightly convex at the center stake. In preparation, I had painted the stakes with three coats of Rust-Oleum Camouflage flat green and then another coat of alternating stripes of flat tan. After pounding in the stakes, which came out to be ~53” high, I laid out the green fencing.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge29JpNLkMXyMd_mepQGZsijXuXcLSFqldIx-02X9PWgIz54H00C4oVzVwESXDZg3roIdns6WmG2q-SUbdLqNdzrQVdx3TMrvw-EjITj3o6YnMTrXKfDAzSBjFZf2Aimf251kK/s1600/P1010064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge29JpNLkMXyMd_mepQGZsijXuXcLSFqldIx-02X9PWgIz54H00C4oVzVwESXDZg3roIdns6WmG2q-SUbdLqNdzrQVdx3TMrvw-EjITj3o6YnMTrXKfDAzSBjFZf2Aimf251kK/s400/P1010064.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Slowly Taking Shape</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.1500000000000001; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.1500000000000001; white-space: pre-wrap;">Stretching the fencing, I used zip ties to attach about every 8” vertically along the stake, working from left to right. After completed, I allowed some fencing to overlap about 8” on either side, in case I wanted to add burlap to the sides at a later date. Finally, the Wildfowl Ninja snipped off the extra from each locked zip tie. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKWLnB5OVJKwSW5c_D5IM9dPEDqz9Lh4HUOVXa8z4TS0rZ0RadHhxU0gWKOiE1LBLZcMBR7d_YAZk30BfnE7PTtLBY1XjDXrO7PK8BKCWy1WuKC_2fPctAynS7XSfF8iRKSO1/s1600/P1010067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKWLnB5OVJKwSW5c_D5IM9dPEDqz9Lh4HUOVXa8z4TS0rZ0RadHhxU0gWKOiE1LBLZcMBR7d_YAZk30BfnE7PTtLBY1XjDXrO7PK8BKCWy1WuKC_2fPctAynS7XSfF8iRKSO1/s400/P1010067.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Center Post and Fencing Up - Bring On the Burlap!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With the camo burlap laying over the blind, I checked to see is there was a top/bottom to the pattern, and then I laid about 4” over the top of the blind and working right to left zip tied the burlap to the fencing. I attached the burlap to each stake and lightly stretched it across to the next and tied it at the same intervals as the fencing. My partner worked diligently smoothing out the burlap and keeping the flow of zip ties coming. We finished it off, by doubling it over the top and tying it through the fencing and both sides of fabric. This step visually “softened” the top edge of the blind. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jAtBkJ16Ed15lpytIVdC4d4ZLga8EcVavG3YrPCEm8KPfw-vOQ5TmqatjotHOFdUlC9yljFQoFztlHkNCJrds8hT5DIHR-kdGdLBNLHVNjhjuv1JIz68Jv2FCk0ZR8k2tS-p/s1600/P1010071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jAtBkJ16Ed15lpytIVdC4d4ZLga8EcVavG3YrPCEm8KPfw-vOQ5TmqatjotHOFdUlC9yljFQoFztlHkNCJrds8hT5DIHR-kdGdLBNLHVNjhjuv1JIz68Jv2FCk0ZR8k2tS-p/s400/P1010071.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Wildfowl Ninja Checks For Level</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As we always aim to better the construction, we improved on our brushing technique this year. Last year, we had tied decoy cord across the stakes, to tuck grasses and flora against the front of the blind. It worked well, but between hunts, the cord would stretch under weather effects and we would re-tighten every time in the blind (and also re-brush, which is </span><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">S</span><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">tandard </span><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">O</span><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">perating </span><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">P</span><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">ractice to keep us hidden). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> This year, I decided to add a doubled over bungee cord to one side and passed it through a looped piece of camo paracord. When it loosened under strain, I could tie another loop essentially tightening the “brush cord”. Also, although the heavier paracord would stretch, it was stronger than the decoy line. There was one “brush cord” at 18” off the ground and another 12” from the top of the blind. Last year, I only used one. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Bungee Detail: Patent Pending</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With the bungee in place, I now walked far off from the blind site and cut the grasses with the kukri. The kukri is a long handled machete popular in India and was used by the Ghurkas in WWII. It is very effective at cutting grasses, small saplings, as its wide blade allows good purchase on what you are cutting. Mine is made by Cold Steel and keeps a good edge and is easy to sharpen. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Passing grass to my partner, he tucked in the grasses and continued further concealment efforts. We finished the brushing (though we need to add more) with small bushes on the end stakes. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Primary Brushing in Place</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Pre Hot Plate Installation</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLjd8hy4vod9fr7RU606YYOv06y92_cK9JnnX7TKutf6X1Cp40XRKhC_5skW04plUNnJJRQckj61Xssp8hB_OguwVHgNbNtJkWMmh2RXmPZlJOuUM69W3TEuIA3_PXZZ_8Ikc/s1600/P1010077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLjd8hy4vod9fr7RU606YYOv06y92_cK9JnnX7TKutf6X1Cp40XRKhC_5skW04plUNnJJRQckj61Xssp8hB_OguwVHgNbNtJkWMmh2RXmPZlJOuUM69W3TEuIA3_PXZZ_8Ikc/s400/P1010077.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The Land Of Pleasant Living</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As we cleaned up the blind site and added final touches of brush, I guess that young man at the shop was right. I did need that extra burlap he measured for me. He may have been new to the shop, but was not new to building a blind. </span></span></div>
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Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-34705132048403479922013-10-21T20:21:00.001-04:002014-11-20T23:39:35.789-05:00Building an Eastern Shore Blind<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRTzDMd7Dbbsfs-or-aRxDYIV3m0185U5k5xjepXuvniYQG0RGQ08lRwVIp1w0QtIInUpEDeXJE1VkmIYa1knou6m7S93xYNhT7jIIO1OdfyZUfPcJNKcGLLSRhEY8K4iNubF/s1600/IMG-20131019-00425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRTzDMd7Dbbsfs-or-aRxDYIV3m0185U5k5xjepXuvniYQG0RGQ08lRwVIp1w0QtIInUpEDeXJE1VkmIYa1knou6m7S93xYNhT7jIIO1OdfyZUfPcJNKcGLLSRhEY8K4iNubF/s400/IMG-20131019-00425.jpg" height="247" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Fine Day's Work</td></tr>
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That is what a work day is like, I told the Wildfowl Ninja, as we drove down the lane toward home. We started at 8:30, I recapped, broke for lunch, wrapped up close to 6 and had a lot to show for our hard work. He was the youngest on the crew by three decades, but handled himself like an eager apprentice: ready for grunt work, did not complain or horse around.<br />
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With a load from the lumber yard delivered, and the plans taped to the back wall of the garage, I let the men with true construction knowledge lead the way. I do not consider being able to plane a door or fix a broken toilet as adequate to lead the charge on such an important project. Among the seven of us, we had decades of blind building experience, deep construction skill sets, strong backs and good attitudes.<br />
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The task was straight forward: build a blind 12' by 5' with 5' foot back wall and 4’ front and side walls. 32” wide door in the back wall offset to the left, with a 16" wide seat across and a removable seat at the door. The roof would be pitched at a ~30 degree angle, allowing the shooter to stand up and out with clear shooting lanes. Set on cinder blocks and facing southeast, the blind was in a mowed corn field.<br />
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Under an overcast sky we got to work on the floor of ¾” pressure treated plywood with 2x8 joists. The Wildfowl Ninja was eager to help with measuring the pieces needed, but particularly excited to get trained on the nail gun and used it in finishing the floor. Radiant heating tiles in Mossy Oak ShadowGrass Blades will be installed after a base coat of Old Goose paint.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ayZiDPZ-FEKkkODLJy55BIugRGOckKMpptCOltNa9wnMJpT5-XQjIWnhfSAnxJmsIKyOYZ8XTlb0lbkdVXl_wFuikC3JY0fr50W__eIPlOlkObQqfHW8iITL6KbvMuW9Q54R/s1600/IMG-20131019-00413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ayZiDPZ-FEKkkODLJy55BIugRGOckKMpptCOltNa9wnMJpT5-XQjIWnhfSAnxJmsIKyOYZ8XTlb0lbkdVXl_wFuikC3JY0fr50W__eIPlOlkObQqfHW8iITL6KbvMuW9Q54R/s400/IMG-20131019-00413.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Wildfowl Ninja Mans the Gun</td></tr>
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With the depth of construction knowledge there were not many re-do’s, and “Measure Twice, Cut Once” was the unspoken rule. As Always. With one team measuring and cutting and another constructing and nailing, we made short work of the rest of this modular blind. The floor became the template on which to build the front and back walls, with shell shelves on the front wall and a door in the back wall. The side walls were constructed to fit inside the front and back walls, with plywood overlapping to screw into the ends of the front and back walls. Well thought out and built to withstand years of searing summers and cold wet winters, this was shaping up to be a beast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmowXmYQPrUU81-lDM1IyJ03CGFx80ENTM3CnBfpKZ3LXeccNDFN8HsngCUOsnzFNAOobyQK1bwC6KXLlOQiPnw5PhXMb-KHrkplJW_ZOhkq6xPOXhTDZMvMd_kmFektdcnXuv/s1600/IMG-20131019-00414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmowXmYQPrUU81-lDM1IyJ03CGFx80ENTM3CnBfpKZ3LXeccNDFN8HsngCUOsnzFNAOobyQK1bwC6KXLlOQiPnw5PhXMb-KHrkplJW_ZOhkq6xPOXhTDZMvMd_kmFektdcnXuv/s400/IMG-20131019-00414.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modular Blind Building</td></tr>
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The lunch bell rang and we were treated to a fantastic lunch of salad, fresh warm homemade bread and stew. Filled with pearl onions, peas, carrot, potatoes and tender chunks of goose breast, this was possibly one of the best stews I have had. The combination of the vegetables bathed in a thick broth and soft chunks of goose combined for a perfect blend and balance for the epitome of what a stew should provide: a foundation of hearty protein and vegetable vitamins. I almost went for a third helping, but there was work to be done.<br />
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With all the pieces sideways on a utility trailer, the blind was hauled out to the nearby field. The back wall was carried off the trailer and placed behind the blind foundation, as we readied the floor for positioning.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vj-CChGt3mPUa2ytkNnbsztmrGxSvUpYhIYCRMW0zsJjkZNMeoYXcysZKRPvkIo9wrSSQMmGS1zoiFbkenDKl9lQVOp8zcdbGuXC7zwM6RzdLQudP9az0gHzMD64dfS5c1Ap/s1600/IMG-20131019-00417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vj-CChGt3mPUa2ytkNnbsztmrGxSvUpYhIYCRMW0zsJjkZNMeoYXcysZKRPvkIo9wrSSQMmGS1zoiFbkenDKl9lQVOp8zcdbGuXC7zwM6RzdLQudP9az0gHzMD64dfS5c1Ap/s400/IMG-20131019-00417.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Floor is Ready for Placement</td></tr>
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The blind site was relatively level and blocks had been put in place for a foundation, so there would be a little bit of block overhang. The blind would be set in up against a few trees and some scrub, so in a few years, the growth would wrap around and contribute to the stealth of the blind.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW69tNNGbhZkRICplGm7EKJ9P62kQfDoUVYGrYtAkNmjd_23_Z-jhmr366B8lWHsAChtdVF2KtQZ3DOCnqtddsG74AmOmHHFJ_yuvrAZaO-iBQz_Ae_Y2Tj2Rl1XkzbN_1-S69/s1600/IMG-20131019-00416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW69tNNGbhZkRICplGm7EKJ9P62kQfDoUVYGrYtAkNmjd_23_Z-jhmr366B8lWHsAChtdVF2KtQZ3DOCnqtddsG74AmOmHHFJ_yuvrAZaO-iBQz_Ae_Y2Tj2Rl1XkzbN_1-S69/s400/IMG-20131019-00416.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grading the Foundation</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiol_B2wSJKmHL-u9AfslgBow9-sKWcUGn7m3MkKLqbxtaFTEN_7jnuTi4Mq22HWcgGUPHq5WVfqhUpYhzswikGas36_Uz5ggbnW3IxXYztJtSDEvM-Ww2bp8x1y1ym33WZXsQ3/s1600/IMG-20131019-00418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiol_B2wSJKmHL-u9AfslgBow9-sKWcUGn7m3MkKLqbxtaFTEN_7jnuTi4Mq22HWcgGUPHq5WVfqhUpYhzswikGas36_Uz5ggbnW3IxXYztJtSDEvM-Ww2bp8x1y1ym33WZXsQ3/s400/IMG-20131019-00418.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Up; Two to Go!</td></tr>
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With the sides up, the next conundrum was to ensure that the pitch of the roof was enough to provide cover from rain, concealment from birds, but not hinder the hunter’s ability to rise, move forward, mount and shoot. After some discussion, the pitch was determined and the 12’ roof by built with a 2x8 running lengthwise providing lateral support and a middle angled piece to keep the roof from bowing over time. Additionally, solar panels will provide enough energy for the early warning MigRadar (Migratory Radar System)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8vJ6AWy_XVIggDyR3BLFXR9tQRWYgXRAoDx9y2YYU2VXGQzygP4mM_uJHbc4J7dfZYNciB1pj_JoGVDu9TJige17iqKi8W4Gs7_q5WUzQ_QUkwqvI1cjplHiuwXQH5WyKsO_/s1600/IMG-20131019-00420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8vJ6AWy_XVIggDyR3BLFXR9tQRWYgXRAoDx9y2YYU2VXGQzygP4mM_uJHbc4J7dfZYNciB1pj_JoGVDu9TJige17iqKi8W4Gs7_q5WUzQ_QUkwqvI1cjplHiuwXQH5WyKsO_/s400/IMG-20131019-00420.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Door Detail with the Roof in the Works</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M44e7-FN_t3XUP1NcHSzECHAaUZheENCKTU2bRtlbigi1HXanojCSGpxpEc0E8uwQHbyp1DnC-3KqaCEfgLXPAO930cnppN_99Y9p3wsqqUQlwWbIMgExXfGC0E3MoNyl_A5/s1600/IMG-20131019-00422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M44e7-FN_t3XUP1NcHSzECHAaUZheENCKTU2bRtlbigi1HXanojCSGpxpEc0E8uwQHbyp1DnC-3KqaCEfgLXPAO930cnppN_99Y9p3wsqqUQlwWbIMgExXfGC0E3MoNyl_A5/s400/IMG-20131019-00422.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roof Up and Benches Next</td></tr>
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Roof set, the bench was then made on a 2x4 frame, 16’ off the floor and 16” wide. It was determined that there would be a removable seat where the door was located. The rich Corinthian leather would be added once it was Scotch Guarded, (or Schnapps Guarded, pick your poison)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY4Hrjc1-4eRaSGEjKQNWQV2TzGYDnFaasSD1U5SiHK32OaBql4nfOP5ZnRsb15GWlwBrZKBTUuVao2YCND3dFyDNTPwPfQRVDeewImVerxnVqgGBGajJ_lIPBE8zens30oyK/s1600/IMG-20131019-00426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY4Hrjc1-4eRaSGEjKQNWQV2TzGYDnFaasSD1U5SiHK32OaBql4nfOP5ZnRsb15GWlwBrZKBTUuVao2YCND3dFyDNTPwPfQRVDeewImVerxnVqgGBGajJ_lIPBE8zens30oyK/s400/IMG-20131019-00426.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bench in Place, with Shell Shelfs at the Ready</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrALK0r2guzAFzWZs2Vg5QwYUovieAU8g3Eoasj_heyy4jc-hG2EoXs-96hIULxXPjiSPG512b8fn3JYAMBQ4PEXIoFJ9_rlppQnLfmXoInLf2fL8L92XwZG_J8u96-yJ85mN7/s1600/IMG-20131019-00427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrALK0r2guzAFzWZs2Vg5QwYUovieAU8g3Eoasj_heyy4jc-hG2EoXs-96hIULxXPjiSPG512b8fn3JYAMBQ4PEXIoFJ9_rlppQnLfmXoInLf2fL8L92XwZG_J8u96-yJ85mN7/s400/IMG-20131019-00427.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bench with Door Closed </td></tr>
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All put together and with extra screws for good measure, this juggernaut will provide cover from the elements for seasons to come. If it would only help my crossing shot. That comes with experience. This building project provided the Wildfowl Ninja with the experience of working with capable men to build a super solid hunting platform from a pile of lumber and hand drawn plans. He thought that was cool. The same cool that comes from being outdoors in a light rain on a cool day working hard.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just add Paint and Brush...and Geese!</td></tr>
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<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-33374260646427613642013-10-14T18:25:00.000-04:002013-10-14T18:25:44.240-04:00The WildFowl Ninja’s Training Continues<div style="border: 0px; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.984375px; margin-bottom: 0.714285em; padding: 0px;">
When he told me what he wanted to do for his 12<sup style="line-height: 1.428571em;">th</sup> birthday, I reflexively rubbed my upper arm, where three years prior I took a point blank hit from a fully charged paintball gun. “I’m in!”, I quickly replied. I then began to think of ways that I could run around like a madman and still retain my dignity among seven 11 year olds, as well as waking up the next day not feeling like I was hit by an All Pro Linebacker (pick your favorite, I will take London Fletcher). </div>
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After suiting up and picking teams, I realized that dignity among my cadre was a secondary concern, as they had nicknamed me the Juggernaut. I am unsure if it was because I was large and slow, or a relentless force.</div>
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Yesterday was a fun and muddy afternoon and there was no culling out of the herd. All of these young men played hard, worked together and celebrated their victories, while congratulating the opposition on a game well played. Even after some particularly nasty close quarter hits, all of them “cowboyed up” and continued with renewed ferocity.</div>
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Reflecting on the day, dignity was never an issue. Until of course, I split my pants trying to avoid a barrage of high velocity paintball rounds. Wearing shorts on the outside of my pants put me in the Hobo category, but it worked.</div>
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Oh..and the last game had the Wildfowl Ninja holding off three buddies who tried to flank him but to no avail. This scenario may help him keep his eye on the right side of the blind.</div>
Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-9585228744476729782013-10-02T22:31:00.001-04:002013-10-02T22:31:46.114-04:00Gear Review: Kershaw Cryo Folding Knife<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxRB7OsT-G0wgh7_sJGeQK4hv1UU-q2dpCWZ8vTd5dHYE2fkQE8HL3cAf6DEcon1ad1KhgK4qRRYnGUW6UEM9XmhHtjcUsWG-piqShXf4uY7-kmFiQaNOoT7gEu1DZArFrLs6/s1600/P1010043-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxRB7OsT-G0wgh7_sJGeQK4hv1UU-q2dpCWZ8vTd5dHYE2fkQE8HL3cAf6DEcon1ad1KhgK4qRRYnGUW6UEM9XmhHtjcUsWG-piqShXf4uY7-kmFiQaNOoT7gEu1DZArFrLs6/s400/P1010043-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kershaw Cryo</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Kershaw Cryo is a hefty all metal folder, with a beefy modified drop point 2 3/4" blade and a thick tang. In looking for a spring assisted blade, I wanted a sub $50 folder with a blade less that 4", that could be used for every day carry and I would not go into deep depression if i lost it. While it took me some getting used to having an automatic knife in my pocket (not wanting a surprise vasectomy), I liked the solid lock up of the Cryo and the heft at a little over 4 ounces, and 3 3/4" closed. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cryo Closed: <i>note the 4 way carry option</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Based on a Rick Hinderer design, who is known for advanced tactical blade designs, the blade steel is 8Cr13MoV Chinese made steel and it has held its edge to still shaving sharp. This is impressive, considering it generated a softball size amount of pine shavings for outdoor fires in the Black Hills. Yes, pine is a soft wood, but I did not go easy on the blade and it had the feel of a fixed blade in its solidity and lack of flex at the pivot point. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeB4p3gMaILnISNjbNTey-rCzomA6Xa3Py8VGnWXD0e_-Qs-oFFt8yN23bVaKO1z8gNZWLCYgK2oQuaQXUp9RyFfQQpUWjo1UH-zel9Cvf4rC4vqTB49xwuFoTSFgwVTwsGCyh/s1600/P1010044-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeB4p3gMaILnISNjbNTey-rCzomA6Xa3Py8VGnWXD0e_-Qs-oFFt8yN23bVaKO1z8gNZWLCYgK2oQuaQXUp9RyFfQQpUWjo1UH-zel9Cvf4rC4vqTB49xwuFoTSFgwVTwsGCyh/s400/P1010044-1.jpg" width="177" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the thick liner lock and deep jimping</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The Cryo has a liner lock that covers over half of the tang when in the open position. It was stiff at purchase, but has worn in nicely: it still opens quick and engages fully with no lateral blade travel. The jimping on the back of the blade allows some choking up on the blade and the handle is comfortable and feels natural in the palm. The pocket clip is a four way option and is very tight in the pocket. I levered mine slightly so that it would be tight but allow easy removal and replacement on my left pocket. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Stout and Strong Folder with Clean Lines</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /> This knife is a well made folder, with a strong blade, that holds an edge. Although I prefer domestic steel, the imported steel allows an acceptable price point. With a strong list of pros and few cons, the Kershaw Cryo earns a ESO Must Buy award. .</span><br />
Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-66783932252812089422013-07-31T21:22:00.001-04:002013-08-01T16:02:06.913-04:00Gear Review: Pelican Cases<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIDO6FgHHuo5nhKcafOdN3rLQkrwRvPTKNNRVmNIAJhy94AVeaXDysqBHCLhXs4pbsChoq0E_HsHe78PEARefv87R_cqSFrFD-zmE9vC82C-NTghzMyehQZ2IElEM1cgfc9cFw/s1600/IMG-20130724-00267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIDO6FgHHuo5nhKcafOdN3rLQkrwRvPTKNNRVmNIAJhy94AVeaXDysqBHCLhXs4pbsChoq0E_HsHe78PEARefv87R_cqSFrFD-zmE9vC82C-NTghzMyehQZ2IElEM1cgfc9cFw/s320/IMG-20130724-00267.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Steamer Trunk to last Forever!!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Look up bombproof in the dictionary and there should be a pen and ink drawing of a Pelican case. Built to take a beating, these are used for high end electronics protection, as well as holding anything that you want to survive the real life equivalent of a zombie apocalypse. At work, I was drooling over one the size of a steamer trunk in a colleagues’ office. Price tag? Over $4000. Cost of item inside? North of $1M. When you want to make sure the item inside is protected from water, dust, and shock, you pay to get peace of mind. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My rule of thumb is that 10% of the purchase price of a new camera will go toward a Pelican case to protect it. My first case was purchased for a trip to the Bahamas on my honeymoon. With the 1120 case, which cradled my first Olympus digital camera, I was able to paddle out through waves or backwater mangroves swamps and not worry about my camera not making it back in one piece. It has gone with me in the hunting blind; on the console of the Whaler, and on many adventures. When I lost the screw-in pressure equalization knob, the company sent me a replacement free of charge 13 years after purchase. Great products are backed by companies who understand the lifetime value of a customer. Pelican covers their cases with an unconditional lifetime warranty.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All of the cases are of similar construction with a hard polycarbonate outer shell and an O-ring seal on the top lid. Dual latches secure the lid with padlock holes and there is a fold-in carry handle. The newer cases feature a pressure equalization valve allowing air flow, but water cannot penetrate into the case, as a Gore-Tex like membrane prevents larger water molecule entry.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To Be Passed On To Generations of Gear Collectors..</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The case is lined with foam. The lid has a fitted convoluted foam layer and the bottom has a flat open cell foam layer. The main body of the case is filled with pre-scored foam that allows you to pick out ~½” by ½” squares to get a custom fit for the three dimensions of the item. This “pick and pluck” foam holds up very well over years of use. In addition, you could replace the foam and customize it for a different item which you want to protect. When ordering, I find it critical to know the right depth. You do not need to have a thick surrounding layer of foam, as once fitted in place, the item will not shift. Also, when you “size” up, you can have a case which can be unwieldy. A perimeter of 1” of foam should be more than sufficient. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The smaller cases work well for GPS, cell phones and other handheld electronics; the larger cases provide protection for cameras, binoculars, scopes. The hard rifle cases are the case of choice for military and tactical shooters. I use my smallest case to store cell phone, wallet and other items, when on the boat. It is also an excellent size to carry items for an emergency survival kit. My 1120 case I use for my older Olympus, though it will be getting repurposed for my Reconnyx SC950 and my 1200 is the case du jour for my larger ultra zoom Lumix FZ200. I purchased my 1200 on sale for $50, and usually runs at ~$70. I use LowePro camera bags when I need moderate protection, but Pelican cases will ensure that your gear comes out of scrapes in better shape than you might. Also, I suggest taping your business card under the lid foam. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">While I expect a lot out of my gear, I also want to make sure it comes home operational. There are other excellent hard protection cases on the market, including Otter Boxes. After over a decade of hard use, my Pelican cases have taken everything I can throw at them. With their bombproof construction and superlative customer service, I will stick with Pelican Products. Made in the USA. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span>Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-7704479489978947832013-07-23T09:49:00.001-04:002013-07-23T09:52:04.336-04:00The Venerable Barlow<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLfZzJUd6Le09NP0XQr3uFDRe9EVcz55o-P7dy3ItVbwCihi63ck_f0F4IpA1F59krJawR0wGx7k4Nli_77AgDeMEBK_yc9Cc2GSmyV3w0_PC00dZNkLdW-FXRnSHY7r0etsRr/s1600/Barlow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img bba="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLfZzJUd6Le09NP0XQr3uFDRe9EVcz55o-P7dy3ItVbwCihi63ck_f0F4IpA1F59krJawR0wGx7k4Nli_77AgDeMEBK_yc9Cc2GSmyV3w0_PC00dZNkLdW-FXRnSHY7r0etsRr/s1600/Barlow.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Barlow</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Jumping off the school bus and then accelerating toward my front door, I slowed down long enough to open the front door and dump my books in a heap. Before a beat up copy of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fundamental Geometry</i> hit the floor, I was already bounding up the steps two at a time and heading for my room. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I was late. Some of my private school pals were already out of school and down in The Woods. I needed to make sure I was not missing today’s symposium: M-80’s, Waterproof or Not? With no sonic reverberations bouncing off the two story colonial style houses that lined this tree lined street, I knew I had not missed the demonstration portion. Stopping at my desk and opening the drawer, I smiled as the light reflected off its nickel bolster. It was in the same place I left it every day and it went into the back pocket of my cords. The Venerable Barlow fell into its place naturally.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> With a solid tear drop shaped handle, generally made of bone, and a clip blade, these workhorses from Sheffield came to our shores, but did not carry with them the disdain for other products of the Colonial overlords. Beloved by generations of adventuresome American adolescents, it may not have kept a good edge, but was beefy enough to whittle a toothpick from a log. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> The status of the Barlow as the knife du jour for American boys and girls was elevated when Mark Twain wrote of a “sure-enough Barlow” in the 1876 novel, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. His use of “sure-enough”, or authentic, relates to its popularity among the youth of the time and the counterfeiting of established goods.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A traditional folk song extols the plain virtue of this affordable blade.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>I been livin' here all my life, All I got is a Barlow Knife; </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>Buck horn handle and a barlow blade, </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>Best dang knife that ever was made.</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> It was the original EDC knife before Every Day Carry became the “tacti-cool” term. And Yes, they are waterproof. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-31843458356559678502013-07-15T12:22:00.001-04:002013-07-15T12:23:52.533-04:00Missed More Now Than He Ever Did on the Skeet Field While he may not have been a founding member of the Talbot Rod and Gun Club, he was a foundational pillar of its present membership. Always there to help and mentor; always there to teach a young shooter; always there to make sure things ran well and safely. Always there. Now, only in spirit.<br />
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When I read the obituary a few weeks back, I prayed that it was for someone else. However, his first name was too unique for it not to be his. My son noticed my demeanor and asked what it was I was reading. I changed the subject, as I needed a moment to absorb the blow. I also required the time to soften the stunning news to him, as Philemon (or Phil, as he was known), had been as kind and patient to my son, as if he were his own.<br />
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We talked later and both reflected on the times that the three of us had laughed together discussing everything from small town events to my son’s latest lessons learned in the field. <br />
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Phil always offered sage advice and had a quick wit. He was a gentleman in the best sense of the word and I am honored to have known him. More importantly, though, I am thankful for my son to have such a gracious, considerate and amiable man to befriend him. <br />
<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-60573692657516906802013-02-19T11:13:00.001-05:002013-02-19T11:20:00.628-05:00The New Camera<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0piFCcPPxYXmrQq7p2_tUJ62VPvDDkNpfbgM2qW_HfpKMINtjMoja-Zcgysyr7TUeZuSF2LWMY206QMYUr16TQ7fkWSxQI7XxM8DEhTqEEgKg4SVZjmuOCdmeFYpBk2zugXi/s1600/P1010155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0piFCcPPxYXmrQq7p2_tUJ62VPvDDkNpfbgM2qW_HfpKMINtjMoja-Zcgysyr7TUeZuSF2LWMY206QMYUr16TQ7fkWSxQI7XxM8DEhTqEEgKg4SVZjmuOCdmeFYpBk2zugXi/s400/P1010155.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#2 Hevi Shot from an Early Season Goose (Macro image)</td></tr>
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By my estimation, I took ten to twenty thousand pictures with my Olympus C-750 and after ten years, I knew it was getting older. Colors were a little off and the internal parts sounded tired when focusing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYI5WzEFVEIoPoIMbxI97nxiUTXB9ymNYnVLGURYo2BaJGB4k8Qc55vdSRdN9tf2bHRk3zcVhpcyzooJwglN6ZzfOEDQKkMB5dhUX9ddW-bYRvEuwCSC2TAQa0pQEkSFMHqLF/s1600/P1000114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYI5WzEFVEIoPoIMbxI97nxiUTXB9ymNYnVLGURYo2BaJGB4k8Qc55vdSRdN9tf2bHRk3zcVhpcyzooJwglN6ZzfOEDQKkMB5dhUX9ddW-bYRvEuwCSC2TAQa0pQEkSFMHqLF/s400/P1000114.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'"360" Light trails from boat in time lapse as Moon sets</td></tr>
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My new camera, a Lumix FZ-200, was an unexpected birthday present from those who are so very dear to me.<br />
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Here are some images (a favorite of mine is the last one).<br />
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<em>As with all artistic pursuits, constructive criticism only make me become more adept at my craft. I welcome all comments...</em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6vhVCDb9eMI4iPLK74expS2jXfj9MVWRbjLPhAceo4dx2fRfwCHKnKRxLlm3iHTmvBFA8MsZiGduaT498mN81dRSfJseimdZ1mplcT5L3UQQzr-3wxuhqw33fmIKLhyNEN8R/s1600/P1000218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6vhVCDb9eMI4iPLK74expS2jXfj9MVWRbjLPhAceo4dx2fRfwCHKnKRxLlm3iHTmvBFA8MsZiGduaT498mN81dRSfJseimdZ1mplcT5L3UQQzr-3wxuhqw33fmIKLhyNEN8R/s400/P1000218.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reflecting on the Next Catch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C8sjlCIe67SdG4ceKMGvY6pY7Vo_eiuNb4bFS14F-Qws1ZLq-OqSbp1X_HlTSqL8s-ZLJ4zQR99jfUETl5ryPci_MDoFCZfL0x8ubxnGJBCeWw8ovrb5ymPbNoXPvTPkiIfm/s1600/P1000125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C8sjlCIe67SdG4ceKMGvY6pY7Vo_eiuNb4bFS14F-Qws1ZLq-OqSbp1X_HlTSqL8s-ZLJ4zQR99jfUETl5ryPci_MDoFCZfL0x8ubxnGJBCeWw8ovrb5ymPbNoXPvTPkiIfm/s400/P1000125.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miles River Bridge before Sunrise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vIZuBpXEOUpGOfbwaBNRa9oR3XhawmwB0KJ5A0aC0Cn77EI_iSC1bH-n5oevZPIBn_C62JxtbH35Q6pQgnViOnYrJrgLIDojWVWsSb8-Hdpsovb8USDIaWG1XzDKTSrgzlx7/s1600/P1000174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vIZuBpXEOUpGOfbwaBNRa9oR3XhawmwB0KJ5A0aC0Cn77EI_iSC1bH-n5oevZPIBn_C62JxtbH35Q6pQgnViOnYrJrgLIDojWVWsSb8-Hdpsovb8USDIaWG1XzDKTSrgzlx7/s400/P1000174.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning Mist (High Dynamic Range image)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBSPokL_GrWsaySmDU_LRXjhzM8h33htUH0woqFLAk0j5_97HxFORpasHxjxt3RHK8bN6PNb3ZTw9mtHVd-OmX9iiL8QNryYS-I-_FMUKRlvgdeceSGcJMnpxTAfFYl7uqneaG/s1600/P1000970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBSPokL_GrWsaySmDU_LRXjhzM8h33htUH0woqFLAk0j5_97HxFORpasHxjxt3RHK8bN6PNb3ZTw9mtHVd-OmX9iiL8QNryYS-I-_FMUKRlvgdeceSGcJMnpxTAfFYl7uqneaG/s400/P1000970.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muscle Car Merry Christmas</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQ5NFjAckm8b9hT43lCFoJ8EwpjBFYRUUYSSglp4yWJt9bS9DBwrEh-y0RhzrqJRAQSyV4v3QFlTul0J9eK1Biwa2Ccq6eRnImba9fGdYkkZU1pK67W4TIWFuORj1N7_Ppgay/s1600/P1000280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQ5NFjAckm8b9hT43lCFoJ8EwpjBFYRUUYSSglp4yWJt9bS9DBwrEh-y0RhzrqJRAQSyV4v3QFlTul0J9eK1Biwa2Ccq6eRnImba9fGdYkkZU1pK67W4TIWFuORj1N7_Ppgay/s400/P1000280.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Glory Salutes the Silent Sentinel<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4dvkp4BV4PdWmksEAkx8vzM3wxS8Fh9KaP-SCN8nvsWb8p1hvaWeEl8KxYyOgE-ftw8hmDfhGhLm7cTI7kY61iRz-2X55INnAzzpck96dgQIuBwoFycnxyYwNdvrNqm35jpM/s1600/P1000483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4dvkp4BV4PdWmksEAkx8vzM3wxS8Fh9KaP-SCN8nvsWb8p1hvaWeEl8KxYyOgE-ftw8hmDfhGhLm7cTI7kY61iRz-2X55INnAzzpck96dgQIuBwoFycnxyYwNdvrNqm35jpM/s400/P1000483.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RG3 Warms Up Before Viking Game</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFS7IHeWtzcUDVVsEqUa3sngwEBhJQdwyKh-i4DnTLV1tGlIri9dfzMmH6ccB4j5DqglTD4neDj9M147aUnSPBpVcrV3EsZvzgHi59N8kL4AERNNSUdhxtS8EkypJJJRBcXl1_/s1600/P1000799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFS7IHeWtzcUDVVsEqUa3sngwEBhJQdwyKh-i4DnTLV1tGlIri9dfzMmH6ccB4j5DqglTD4neDj9M147aUnSPBpVcrV3EsZvzgHi59N8kL4AERNNSUdhxtS8EkypJJJRBcXl1_/s400/P1000799.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A View to a Kill</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGa0GmQ9C7hNlTm4Fca47AK4tuvud1dbixwJFkyFftOXSObov6Lr0ic069V9lMUOki-UxV2LAUnuFflL1IAQuvYl4HqrJj4CAJVPInADkst7F6AhTgu4h7FWzA4f5JBTUjP5g6/s1600/P1000138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGa0GmQ9C7hNlTm4Fca47AK4tuvud1dbixwJFkyFftOXSObov6Lr0ic069V9lMUOki-UxV2LAUnuFflL1IAQuvYl4HqrJj4CAJVPInADkst7F6AhTgu4h7FWzA4f5JBTUjP5g6/s400/P1000138.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lone Oak</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HmnTo0ehtnjXUFQXzhGKnVOiUToF3klyjMj7fHvtkr0_XEAuI0LlL5cp0ZHKUwVe8R6bIRdaO818Z0KiXlEoDS3kAoE-NdWVHS5EPyop20BZraF3vt9mhDTSR8GZ8Yw-w-Yi/s1600/P1000171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HmnTo0ehtnjXUFQXzhGKnVOiUToF3klyjMj7fHvtkr0_XEAuI0LlL5cp0ZHKUwVe8R6bIRdaO818Z0KiXlEoDS3kAoE-NdWVHS5EPyop20BZraF3vt9mhDTSR8GZ8Yw-w-Yi/s400/P1000171.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleepy Hollow (High Dynamic Range image)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Misty Morning under Miles River Bridge<br />
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Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-41887993931665679792013-02-12T13:52:00.003-05:002013-02-13T12:22:10.622-05:00A Guided Goose Hunt on the Eastern Shore <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Guide to Waterfowling</td></tr>
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After years in the trenches (or goose blind), I have graduated to the status of being a hunting guide. Successful in getting the picture of the client hoisting the goose in one hand and shotgun in the other, which is the equivalent of the Super Bowl MVP declaring their undying allegiance to Walt Disney, the only minor detail was that I was not paid for my effort. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blind Preparation</td></tr>
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To me that is inconsequential, considering that my client was the Wildfowl Ninja and the day was the state’s Youth Waterfowl Hunt Day. In fact, I did not have to do too much as I relied on him to unload gear and get the decoys set up. Unbeknownst to my young partner was that I was using this as another opportunity to expand his knowledge. With one gun, there was no doubt as to who hit the bird, and with over half dozen days afield this season, he was well prepared to regurgitate the salient points of hours hunting together. I am not sure a discussion of heating a Pop Tart with a chemical hand warmer or the potential culinary wonder of a Slim Jim wrapped in bacon would be included in those points necessary to successfully bringing home geese. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMyawS_5FTwnNip5JsdWiTaCMgTWUszg8cGnvBDzxZHIfOZELNCS1AA6OfuN5DX3TBaipFxdUT64St6nfZQHg4Erwr3_oDtCkNaaYPY9xZzmufs48plnotjW5rl1QqcJtnKsZONQ/s1600/Full+Spread.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMyawS_5FTwnNip5JsdWiTaCMgTWUszg8cGnvBDzxZHIfOZELNCS1AA6OfuN5DX3TBaipFxdUT64St6nfZQHg4Erwr3_oDtCkNaaYPY9xZzmufs48plnotjW5rl1QqcJtnKsZONQ/s400/Full+Spread.JPG" uea="true" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Full Spread<br />
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It was our first afternoon hunt of the year and the wind was blowing at close to 15 mph from the NNW and the temperature was 38 before wind chill. We were well prepared for the cold and, luckily, none of the decoys went airborne. With the wind behind us, and a small pool of water in front of the blind, I set the decoys up with the “X” slightly to our right when looking out. Using a dozen oversized shells on motion stakes and five silhouettes near the water hole, I also filled out the 1 to 2 o’clock position with a dozen new GHG Pro Elite standard shells. These new dekes have great molded detail; an accurate paint scheme, and the flocked heads are easy to attach. Even though there were some 20 mph gusts, all decoys stayed in position and the motion staked shells did not spin like a gyro. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0bo90TV_vyILOkE9AhvTYHHEKgaX3ybq9GR6-5h9GzTGbqfFimXe3c3-pLrpDb_sqVvunPc7XyXsupAwYhD5OK1LwtsQn1c5BdDwDGD8FRhKOssDrBfgr4w-PnWnt3h6OAU_mA/s1600/Sun+Setting+on+the+Season.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0bo90TV_vyILOkE9AhvTYHHEKgaX3ybq9GR6-5h9GzTGbqfFimXe3c3-pLrpDb_sqVvunPc7XyXsupAwYhD5OK1LwtsQn1c5BdDwDGD8FRhKOssDrBfgr4w-PnWnt3h6OAU_mA/s400/Sun+Setting+on+the+Season.JPG" uea="true" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking to our 1 o'clock</td></tr>
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Settling into the blind, I continued calling and trying to get a bead on the afternoon’s flight characteristics. 300 yards out in front was a flock of over a hundred feeding, so any birds above 50 or 75 feet would get a good view of them and swing over there. Our bet was on low fliers staying out of the wind. One hour in, we had a set at our three o’clock and, as I called and suggested to keep still (as we had no overhead cover), the last of the four swung out and toward our spread. As he rejoined the others and continued to join the flash mob feeding in the field north of us, I heard a flapping and commented in colorful language, under my breath. It sounded like a goose had landed right on top of us, but there was nothing. Very weird. Looking out, I commented on the realism of our decoy spread, including the full body by the waterhole. As my mind put things together, he started to walk across the “X”. In hushed tones, I told the Wildfowl Ninja of our visitor and we stood up as he took off into the air. Two resounding reports cut through the air and he continued on his flight path up and out of range. Later, I realized that since we were down wind, he could not hear us talk, and even in a normal volume, he had not been alerted. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-j_flyID9OTUrhEYtb74uMZFp75OFa8LuWStWooU0ZTnOdZk03y-9R8YMgLld7XtfZ-JA46T5IxDzTXQBQXYoZKjgoSX66ndssG5DmxUsQKBAFdBBSvVQ41kEmUrMTHn-6c-cAA/s1600/P1010037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-j_flyID9OTUrhEYtb74uMZFp75OFa8LuWStWooU0ZTnOdZk03y-9R8YMgLld7XtfZ-JA46T5IxDzTXQBQXYoZKjgoSX66ndssG5DmxUsQKBAFdBBSvVQ41kEmUrMTHn-6c-cAA/s400/P1010037.JPG" uea="true" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now Where is that Pop Tart!?</td></tr>
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Hunkered down behind the screen blind, our view was limited and a bird less than 30 feet off the ground came in unnoticed. Silent, gliding and landing with the wind, it took us by complete surprise: a true Wildfowl Ninja. Sometimes your confidence gets the better of you, I related. There is no such thing as an easy shot. We scrounged the blind bag for the last of a season’s worth of snacks and a Pop Tart broken into fifty thousand pieces was our bounty. The pastry engineers at Kellog’s had us waterfowlers in mind when it designed a filling that acts as a bonding agent and holds the tasty mosaic together. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53iPYJiPsvZtRe5C2xLgK0FgiStLt7DH7LbQTMgFREhcdnRVIzRrEp54nCo5_HUi5-iMBL8mAjPec7krcy2HxsURT5ko7rp0n_pTCQGEetEwBrGHnlUCLpRYt1hn2j9yjSWrtAw/s1600/Looking+Out.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53iPYJiPsvZtRe5C2xLgK0FgiStLt7DH7LbQTMgFREhcdnRVIzRrEp54nCo5_HUi5-iMBL8mAjPec7krcy2HxsURT5ko7rp0n_pTCQGEetEwBrGHnlUCLpRYt1hn2j9yjSWrtAw/s400/Looking+Out.JPG" uea="true" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A View over the Dekes</td></tr>
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With the sun lazily drifting toward the horizon, we calculated an hour left to hunt. The flights were less frequent, but still heading toward the nearby field. Eyeing the spread through the “porthole” I cut in the camo burlap, the wily birds had done it again. But this time it was three geese on the outside of the spread at 11 o’clock and one directly on the “X”. I had reached the apex of goose hunting: the zen of goose hunting. Do nothing; don’t pay attention; don’t call, and they will land in your spread. OR, I was just enjoying the experience and lacked the hypersensitivity to pick up on the encroachment of another mammal in my “personal space” (decoy spread). We watched and marveled. Then he rose and greeted the goose (now on the wing) with the requisite salutation, “Hey Goosie!” and took the shot. The #2 payload hit its mark and the bird crumpled to the ground. <br />
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In retrospect, I did not need to be there. The Wildfowl Ninja had done all the field work to bring the geese to him. In my place as an observer of the result of the culmination of a successful season’s hard work, I was content. He was thrilled. <br />
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Our season came to a close with us pulling up the stakes of the blind, and reflecting on an outstanding season, ending with an even dozen geese (He bagged three and I bagged nine). It would not have been possible without the gracious invitation and support of CP and Mimi, as well as my friend, John. <br />
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We brought home geese for the grill, but the true reward was the time spent with you. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHvQn-hiMA2eMj4ccqsAyeltaekNizJAjT4SwVbTYjrIGGOIlh8WcQz920LquckZE0PYwGrwfa_T_xA3Cmwx_uD6DSFHPpueokl7szjeZHFUBEF-o6DQy7tpTUI6xvceC7_bzXA/s1600/P1010041-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHvQn-hiMA2eMj4ccqsAyeltaekNizJAjT4SwVbTYjrIGGOIlh8WcQz920LquckZE0PYwGrwfa_T_xA3Cmwx_uD6DSFHPpueokl7szjeZHFUBEF-o6DQy7tpTUI6xvceC7_bzXA/s400/P1010041-001.JPG" uea="true" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goose, Wildfowl Ninja and Weatherby</td></tr>
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Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-6159835522905080582012-12-26T10:49:00.000-05:002012-12-26T10:49:59.210-05:00Christmas Eve Hunt<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuovy3LvTIdOcjVegHLod1wYFp_Yevp34CKWLJmGHyNAWrAdTyvxFrea0AKoHm70LNFuh04RGQN8Bj-UOOl9-V-YTC3p9qP_AE3rMcWZfC_68UXvtAvnIt-zRtwrwhgFLRRVctpA/s1600/P1010027-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuovy3LvTIdOcjVegHLod1wYFp_Yevp34CKWLJmGHyNAWrAdTyvxFrea0AKoHm70LNFuh04RGQN8Bj-UOOl9-V-YTC3p9qP_AE3rMcWZfC_68UXvtAvnIt-zRtwrwhgFLRRVctpA/s400/P1010027-002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Goose(s)...or Geese!</td></tr>
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With a full Christmas Eve day schedule, including church at four and dinner to follow, could we squeeze in a morning goose hunt? How could we give up the opportunity for a Christmas goose!<br />
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With the hot chocolate stowed and decoys loaded, we left in the dark. Arriving at close to sunrise, we humped our gear out to the field blind, which the Wildfowl Ninja had taken his limit the Saturday before.<br />
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With even just a dozen shells and half a dozen silouettes, it seems we are loaded down Gunga Din Style. When did the blind bag get so heavy? Ah, yes, the Ninja's gear this year. Last year, he only brought himself and not his Weatherby, shells, snacks, etc. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEXxQcULNdXlN6mBeSlVxMgcpIw4uNKEbuftqkzxeotnFDqzqjCbMjnKuUZtRpXGnnP-O4Ze4LMEeWBMQ9_BoKvIZTyHXHlSm-Sti1chfMQrzryAf09wTzsxBfag7-zaZFCY4yBA/s1600/P1010022-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEXxQcULNdXlN6mBeSlVxMgcpIw4uNKEbuftqkzxeotnFDqzqjCbMjnKuUZtRpXGnnP-O4Ze4LMEeWBMQ9_BoKvIZTyHXHlSm-Sti1chfMQrzryAf09wTzsxBfag7-zaZFCY4yBA/s400/P1010022-001.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Benelli Keeping Watch</td></tr>
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High winds early in the week had blown down much of the pine boughs and the grass we used to brush the blind. After filling in the front of the blind with fresh grass and setting up the decoys, we settled in. We ended up extending the blind with ultralite Camo Systems netting. This stuff is packable, light and provides great concealment while allowing me to look through. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBWPrNm3ZuPtmkPdE5eTdtU2ZAB1jxzsuNFAvBgEHK3UTQHbz0gHmyIl8eDvlZwo9kO-LfKKr_88d8BRRqsoYVgB1YdrdiIbxiLr6RHfsfJAFHEuXPIRnkmQSMuL6Dp9kOJNvDA/s1600/P1010019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBWPrNm3ZuPtmkPdE5eTdtU2ZAB1jxzsuNFAvBgEHK3UTQHbz0gHmyIl8eDvlZwo9kO-LfKKr_88d8BRRqsoYVgB1YdrdiIbxiLr6RHfsfJAFHEuXPIRnkmQSMuL6Dp9kOJNvDA/s400/P1010019.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blind Extension with Camo Systems Netting</td></tr>
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The birds that were flying were focused on the scores of geese loafing on the creek about 50 yards behind us. It was interesting to hear them so close, and I used the opportunity to mimic their calls with mine. There were some high fliers, but we started to think that a waxing moon had provided night feeding opportunites.<br />
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Walking back to check on the geese on the creek, three or more dozen lifted off in a crescendo of roiling water and wingbeats. We may have helped some folks down the creek. Overall, there were alot of hunters out, based on the staccato sounds of shotguns in the distance. It was a holiday and I assume there were many weekenders in from D.C. with their guests filling the blinds.<br />
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As it warmed slightly and the wind remained calm, movement started. First, it was a few dozen about a 1/2 mile out and more began to criss cross above our position. Three circled in behind us at about 100 yards high and flew directly out. I flagged. As they came back for another look, they canted their wings dropping in quick. <br />
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Cupping their wings and flying in about 40 yards out but coming in straight, I quietly said, "put down the hot chocolate and get ready". <br />
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Time seemed to slow down as I looked out of the corner of my eye at my partner. He moved with deliberate action, knowing fluid slow movement was required. "Ready?", I said. "Now", I declared, as I stood and they flared about 25 yards out. I swung on the last bird and took him with a solid shot. The Wildfowl Ninja shot next, as the remaining two banked hard and accelerated. My next shot hit the second goose and he pinwheeled into the soft clay. The third goose was out of range and I did not want to take the chance on a crippling shot.<br />
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Guns on safe, we gathered our birds and brought them back to the blind. Walking the distance on the birds, the first was at ~30 yards and the second at ~40 yards. Though I have counted the $$ when I pull the trigger on Hevi-Shot, the #2 payload from the 3 1/2" shell delivered a solid knockdown of both geese.<br />
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We settled back into the blind hoping for another flight. I looked down at the full hot chocolate cup on the uneven ground between our chairs. Put down with celerity, he had not spilled a drop. Nice work, partner.<br />
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Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-55205948241131988302012-12-24T23:19:00.002-05:002012-12-24T23:29:36.103-05:00Merry Christmas to All!!<br />
From everyone at Eastern Shore Outoors, we wish you a Merry Christmas and are thankful for your support over the last year. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An ESO Christmas Tree (thanks to Cabela's for the idea)</td></tr>
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<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-53960801965479219932012-12-22T17:51:00.002-05:002012-12-22T17:56:07.050-05:00Grilled Goose Breast Extravaganza With six fresh goose breasts bathing in saltwater brine at home, I had the perfect opportunity to get the recipe for cooking a goose breast. We were at a lovely Santa lunch with the Wildfowl Ninja and his sister (moniker to follow) and I saw a friend who is a trained culinary mystic and wildfowl afficionado.<br />
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"So", I started, as I cornered him at a table ready to take another bite of his lunch. In retrospect, this was a dastardly move on my part, but frankly, I needed the goods, as I heard so many people referring to goose as a third rate meal, akin to olive loaf.<br />
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"The Wildfowl Ninja limited out yesterday and he helped with breasting them, which was easier than I had thought", I rambled as he eyed some french fries. "They are in brine, so how should I cook them?", I asked.<br />
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"Cook them like a steak; if they are plump, butterfly them. Use a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook them medium rare. They are so lean that they will dry fast", he replied nonchalantly.<br />
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With the grill pumping out mesquite smoke, I grilled per instructions and the result was worth every bit of the efffort. Moist and pink in the center, there was a nice olfactory detonation of garlic and mesquite filling the air.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsoLelhLJ3HYyjYQVmLMs6bYaUmWUs0rHWeSpuOXYuxSYATTmZnWxe_OdezyBS2zQq99LIpwQVF2Tn_29LVS5n5aQXk1vl65PYSOMlKzmjDBqIn7fGymf2cyvSf7NKLvKu1D5/s1600/P1010018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsoLelhLJ3HYyjYQVmLMs6bYaUmWUs0rHWeSpuOXYuxSYATTmZnWxe_OdezyBS2zQq99LIpwQVF2Tn_29LVS5n5aQXk1vl65PYSOMlKzmjDBqIn7fGymf2cyvSf7NKLvKu1D5/s400/P1010018.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mesquite Smoked Dry Rub Goose Breast...Medium Awesome!!</td></tr>
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In talking with my brother last night, I related that we worked on many tasks to bring these geese to table.<br />
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We built the blind; setup the decoy spread; called them in; took them home and breasted them; cleaned and cooked them. "Yes, but you did not build the fire", he said to me. True, and we did not make the shells or their delivery system. I have so much to learn and I relish every minute of it.Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-38228373096423352172012-12-16T23:03:00.000-05:002012-12-18T09:11:06.720-05:00The Wildfowl Ninja's First Goose Hunt <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You have to start at the beginning to appreciate the end.<br />
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We had spent the previous Sunday building two field blinds on a cool, muddy day, interspersed with rain.<br />
Walking a pine forest to find limbs and other brush, we spotted two fallen trees that must not have done well in Hurricane Sandy. Hatchet and loppers in hands, we dragged and filled a truck bed full of brush.<br />
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It was a good day of hard work, for we had never built a blind and give me a hatchet and a design plan in my head, and I am a happy man. Here are a few pictures of the first blind, which had a good set of natural cover behind us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KDIISGOS4FzUtrzq0t7zdEmCQdkb2Hl7uGu_AYDok5TA-6i91fjhaKQYGbV9-ttXaCd7CPEaj5TTBCE2lwxLNoeOJ8EvpMFZ1qooSdgWMW_bmN87yApgXYMFl-CA-sUnhA6PMw/s1600/P1010009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KDIISGOS4FzUtrzq0t7zdEmCQdkb2Hl7uGu_AYDok5TA-6i91fjhaKQYGbV9-ttXaCd7CPEaj5TTBCE2lwxLNoeOJ8EvpMFZ1qooSdgWMW_bmN87yApgXYMFl-CA-sUnhA6PMw/s400/P1010009.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stakes Ready for Backing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwylhO3HuISbUXSoNCd5wLjiJ8OJswyK0GKoHIAzeP_lOJvT1HoeQEKl7_3xLA3ujeUXmiEBGLw24t0oo9VnTrRoIOQx5HqPqxVAtt2G3JJpRSu0Y4931RY_BeIbHPLedVTkxSUg/s1600/P1010011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwylhO3HuISbUXSoNCd5wLjiJ8OJswyK0GKoHIAzeP_lOJvT1HoeQEKl7_3xLA3ujeUXmiEBGLw24t0oo9VnTrRoIOQx5HqPqxVAtt2G3JJpRSu0Y4931RY_BeIbHPLedVTkxSUg/s400/P1010011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backing Ready for Camo Cloth</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmxxrAQ8itZGEpjwZl4i9vP1_dPqk_dxh6EXAkN224P8zmyn6r8eQePhH5xFiWql5_u7kChKYksY46CNidYA1z0jDq9z1IqTSeFU_TLKkFbWupG5gTJDjGJExv00e6V3jVph8xA/s1600/P1010017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmxxrAQ8itZGEpjwZl4i9vP1_dPqk_dxh6EXAkN224P8zmyn6r8eQePhH5xFiWql5_u7kChKYksY46CNidYA1z0jDq9z1IqTSeFU_TLKkFbWupG5gTJDjGJExv00e6V3jVph8xA/s400/P1010017.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brushed Up with Pine and Cedar</td></tr>
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The second blind was on the edge of a field and was comprised of a simple camo screen. The Wildfowl Ninja suggested the grass. It turned out to be a great suggestion!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second Field Blind against Marsh Grass</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCA3X6jyXJYXgMI55AGeeakLNeUC3lZGr2I6rkM54uwG2QP4A-eHDdt70X8nvvl9qwY_IEgZuo6qtPs_8b1MxeKZdfPV5RswLV8GQHWibVbLA5FscB_qyAtg8eG1oo13vgaRhdA/s1600/P1010025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCA3X6jyXJYXgMI55AGeeakLNeUC3lZGr2I6rkM54uwG2QP4A-eHDdt70X8nvvl9qwY_IEgZuo6qtPs_8b1MxeKZdfPV5RswLV8GQHWibVbLA5FscB_qyAtg8eG1oo13vgaRhdA/s400/P1010025.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grassed Up at the end of the Work Day</td></tr>
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Little did we know that it would pay off in what I considered the less concealed of the two blinds, on a bluebird morning that next Saturday.<br />
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Arriving close to sunrise, we were treated to a Hunt Breakfast with scrambled eggs, bacon, toast and coffee. The Wildfowl Ninja's grandmother was so kind to prepare it for us and it was just what we needed to start the day. After carrying more gear than a Sherpa on the way to base camp, we settled in at the second of the two blinds and made quick work of setting up our spread. With no wind, I set up three "pods" of four oversize shells on motion stakes, with five silhouettes at our 1 0'clock position to close off that part on the "X".<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpCfIojSxt995ZbMHVn_4vxAeEgqq4IQZjxK6kgnoeyvbZbG6KwZLA1cf4ma31JwtRQwNOmBlWhJknxSCdNeWfit5XN29t4HCaFJylo4XML8a3E1_xq_4SBKUQ6KOWhMlw_elHQ/s1600/P1010004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpCfIojSxt995ZbMHVn_4vxAeEgqq4IQZjxK6kgnoeyvbZbG6KwZLA1cf4ma31JwtRQwNOmBlWhJknxSCdNeWfit5XN29t4HCaFJylo4XML8a3E1_xq_4SBKUQ6KOWhMlw_elHQ/s400/P1010004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking Out over the Dekes</td></tr>
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This left a nice landing zone in front (with a range decoy at 35 yards) and after we added some camo netting, we settled in. The Wildfowl Ninja was using his Weatherby SA-08 in 20 GA, with an extended IC Carlson's waterfowl choke and 3" Hevi-Metal #2's; I had my Benelli SBEII, with an extended Mod Carlson's choke and 3 1/2 Hevi-Shot #2's. If there was anything within the range decoy, our heaters were up to the task. But were we? Early on, it seemed we would be skunked.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj3dnuYv_M5hDGFZrUCprVL1NyWjl78Bww8UAo2L-qU17Mh5o89_X2o8K-0FmH1sUYbS8M3ZfTQ5TAzZPbqr8xJxkNJVrkHd6TwKbeOwpi8ghJs6UqdBd5Hm5SuZfQIe8bxMrm5A/s1600/P1010001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj3dnuYv_M5hDGFZrUCprVL1NyWjl78Bww8UAo2L-qU17Mh5o89_X2o8K-0FmH1sUYbS8M3ZfTQ5TAzZPbqr8xJxkNJVrkHd6TwKbeOwpi8ghJs6UqdBd5Hm5SuZfQIe8bxMrm5A/s320/P1010001.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Wildfowl Ninja wearing his Xmas Present!</td></tr>
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I was vigilant in looking for birds, but not good on blind banter. Changing that, before long we were laughing and I looked up to see six geese doing a fIy by fifteen yards out and banking up over us. Whoops...I hope this was not the only set. From 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., we had seen high flying birds coming from our 9 to 3 o'clock position and some had gotten close. Out in front and 100's of yards out, we had flagged in some for a closer look but no one was committing. I went out and checked the blind for any tell tale giveaways and "opened" up the spread a little, making more room between decoys.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ReciG8-5fXKS2wT44q4RjWkIJJzbS78ozY3bD248L0cU9u2SamahKOLfOd3QJqLeEoOHqNhQ7aP3Det7gD4_Nlq-f5XaUOuGWL5UUFZEz5WXGUJ5VEDF2Th4ok9NgzMjFCNj4A/s1600/P1010005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ReciG8-5fXKS2wT44q4RjWkIJJzbS78ozY3bD248L0cU9u2SamahKOLfOd3QJqLeEoOHqNhQ7aP3Det7gD4_Nlq-f5XaUOuGWL5UUFZEz5WXGUJ5VEDF2Th4ok9NgzMjFCNj4A/s400/P1010005.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awaiting the Honkers<br />
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As the sun warmed things up, so did the action. There were a few flights that came in close and then a set of eight came in from our 8 o'clock position at 50 yards high. They looked like they would fly straight out and away, until they banked back toward us, dropped and came by for another look. I dropped the flag, gave one last call and told my partner to get ready. They cupped their wings and committed.<br />
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"Now", I called out, and as he stood, they tried to gain altitude. He took his first shot and the goose pinwheeled to the ground. I stood up and took a shot, as he took his second. My first shot connected and so did his second. My last shot went high.<br />
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I looked at him and he was beaming. Hours talking over strategy on the skeet range; setting up blinds and all the times he came as an observer paid off. In a big way. Two shots. Two geese. We put our guns on safety and went into the field. The last bird was winged and after I checked the other two, we went after him and brought him back to the other two.<br />
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It was a fine first goose hunt and I told him, "This was a good day, but there will be many times we won't bring home birds". Looking at me with a knowing smile, he replied, "I know". We did not need to say it. It was being together that was the true bounty. In learning from each other and spending time in the outdoors we always "limited out" And today, he did. On his first goose hunt. How cool is that!<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUOzMKVOI05cs4orfCn4v9bqVtIb4jqaE88TaSwLphnCOC3KYit4hUjUbRATQARUzw8xSnLG-uLl6lAOsu6_MQQYbWrboU2E7kJwaYeqBcFD5GjPHkj3xw5hM_iPSK6QsC5s71w/s1600/P1010009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUOzMKVOI05cs4orfCn4v9bqVtIb4jqaE88TaSwLphnCOC3KYit4hUjUbRATQARUzw8xSnLG-uLl6lAOsu6_MQQYbWrboU2E7kJwaYeqBcFD5GjPHkj3xw5hM_iPSK6QsC5s71w/s640/P1010009.JPG" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Wildfowl Ninja with Half of His Limit!</td></tr>
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<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-91815468692759623722012-11-09T18:28:00.001-05:002012-11-21T12:15:52.074-05:002012 Waterfowl Festival<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtxCYEV4PcV_RnS_x2L5koPlW_VkfBVlycqfQLlS2rgEzywZHcwKyfpTqmcCjnTjFx06rpJWsoxGjeqzlPwrr-CCjCPB6dKXqZ8EzXUIBgQMdyZZvaZdkwjjiy4Swxmk7fKPv/s1600/P1000627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtxCYEV4PcV_RnS_x2L5koPlW_VkfBVlycqfQLlS2rgEzywZHcwKyfpTqmcCjnTjFx06rpJWsoxGjeqzlPwrr-CCjCPB6dKXqZ8EzXUIBgQMdyZZvaZdkwjjiy4Swxmk7fKPv/s320/P1000627.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Headed South on Washington Streer</td></tr>
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Arguably, the country's premier festival concentrating on waterfowl, the Waterfowl Festival in Easton, Maryland has items of interest for all. From collectible decoys to working decoys; from retriever demonstrations to sculptures of labs; old time punt guns to the latest from Benelli, all parts of the waterfowl world are represented.<br />
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On the Atlantic Flyway, Easton is in the "funnel of the flyway", where ducks and geese land in the prodigious fields of corn, milo and sorghum. Prior to the late 1950's, most birds would fly farther south to Pamlico Sound North Carolina. Prior to widespread use of harvesting by machinery, most crops were picked by hand, leaving far fewer feed on the ground. With the advent of mechanized harvesting, combines were used to collect more bushels. More bushels in less time. More feed on the ground. You can almost hear the geese hitting the air brakes as they stopped short of Pamlico.<br />
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This is great weekend to be in this town, where I moved six years ago. You get to see all those friends you missed over the summer and show the visitors a progressive town, founded 65 years before Independence from King George was declared. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaUBUvA9QzVKlQFMqZIHionxLBmtDWpmdFhbwADzClAl33ZHEdAz-07wEWYk4OmTne3dhTlM4NObk1vNEHg0pkGaX5UL1v8KReBYLSaeXKD3g4pzhvHLcXfZ91jLe-kIAtvVk/s1600/P1000644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaUBUvA9QzVKlQFMqZIHionxLBmtDWpmdFhbwADzClAl33ZHEdAz-07wEWYk4OmTne3dhTlM4NObk1vNEHg0pkGaX5UL1v8KReBYLSaeXKD3g4pzhvHLcXfZ91jLe-kIAtvVk/s320/P1000644.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Town Seal<br />
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The epicenter of the Waterfowl Festival is the old Armory building, which houses the foundation year around, but during the Festival is where most waterfowl paintings are exhibited.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17AQcbCGuZblIFZF4CcgHOxDvDJARHigwiLzfuOfsZaM7ZYlng2eKe8Z5TXN9i_ZStnV-mJ2sOZVrbKttp_wu06s8ae9EF2uyb8ad6Q-DT1_HNZt8-kfA22KjdK38EdMGZi3G/s1600/P1000739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17AQcbCGuZblIFZF4CcgHOxDvDJARHigwiLzfuOfsZaM7ZYlng2eKe8Z5TXN9i_ZStnV-mJ2sOZVrbKttp_wu06s8ae9EF2uyb8ad6Q-DT1_HNZt8-kfA22KjdK38EdMGZi3G/s320/P1000739.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Armory; now Waterfowl Festival Inc. HQ<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AerafzI1LtlPShD0GUnYNKhFL1RfM9TMJ8KTjb12u-PcQ5O5TtgoNUSPlUe8p9omICLqyyq-HhVy9yW4GHv79nY7rtHYSUwAURnmP1TBBvod7TK_4W80IexqxKqHus6VkSOF/s1600/P1000659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AerafzI1LtlPShD0GUnYNKhFL1RfM9TMJ8KTjb12u-PcQ5O5TtgoNUSPlUe8p9omICLqyyq-HhVy9yW4GHv79nY7rtHYSUwAURnmP1TBBvod7TK_4W80IexqxKqHus6VkSOF/s320/P1000659.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closeup of the Bronze Sculpture at the Entrance to the Armory</td></tr>
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Below is an example of the type of photo realistic paintings that might be on display. Interestingly, about a third of the works were of non-waterfowl, including giraffes on the Serengetti and bears fishing for salmon, with most of these wildlife artists hailing from Northern California.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canvasbacks in Acrylic. </td></tr>
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Down the street from the Armory is Albright's Gun Shop. Albright's is one of a few fine gun shops in the area. While it may not have the space for all the waterfowler gear, they have a fine selection of new and used guns. Sean Mann of Sean Mann Calls is out front with a booth. His father owned the shop before Larry Albright bought it thirty years ago, and he recounts fond memories in the shop, which sits diagonally from a town landmark, The Tidewater Inn. Mr Mann is a six time World Goose Calling Champion and his flagship call, a flute style model called the Eastern Shoreman is easy to learn and will bring in even the wariest of honkers.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRNsMzsFtAuUYR5oEROBc3Qg-ayJZmBqoQIv0Ls0KseiNt-nZz5NQNAd5l03D9S6jYeKnV1BbCDByRw0tXewzf4qXoUovHtdbX8_P4ZpTu3_fRzzYuRyej4D7d3w0ODXAT05U/s1600/P1000742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRNsMzsFtAuUYR5oEROBc3Qg-ayJZmBqoQIv0Ls0KseiNt-nZz5NQNAd5l03D9S6jYeKnV1BbCDByRw0tXewzf4qXoUovHtdbX8_P4ZpTu3_fRzzYuRyej4D7d3w0ODXAT05U/s320/P1000742.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Albright's Gun Shop: Happy 30th Anniverary!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvhZaTrS1GPyv_siVjH7E_Ne2AdWqcItq2rioIEkWiJF1VvhKoI2DyLnhtleL6aejMQr8n2ia1U1Fn4VI1mVGYQJz6JrwJ9Oob_H9p7C-yHjVKmPNJHucecghgUz-VcZP66oE/s1600/P1000743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvhZaTrS1GPyv_siVjH7E_Ne2AdWqcItq2rioIEkWiJF1VvhKoI2DyLnhtleL6aejMQr8n2ia1U1Fn4VI1mVGYQJz6JrwJ9Oob_H9p7C-yHjVKmPNJHucecghgUz-VcZP66oE/s320/P1000743.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Mann Working the Booth. </td></tr>
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Easton High School houses the decoy and antique waterfowl gear vendors, as well as the Goose and Duck Calling competions. In addition, there are displays which have artifacts from the market gunning days and gunning clubs, from the Susquehanna Flats, at the top of the Chesapeake Bay to the mouth of the Chesapeake near Norfolk.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDiBt0aIgxQWkkA6o2AAczBejGbMDTwiECoqB4V1aG-v3MabAgxrZdCc6VqUBwLK9OUSKaCwJGEfyjNFgYEJY6H3D3-LVt34d6aPpaqYOpT6OX3eDNBv2GD2Gd2Odh-YaxpkU/s1600/P1000756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDiBt0aIgxQWkkA6o2AAczBejGbMDTwiECoqB4V1aG-v3MabAgxrZdCc6VqUBwLK9OUSKaCwJGEfyjNFgYEJY6H3D3-LVt34d6aPpaqYOpT6OX3eDNBv2GD2Gd2Odh-YaxpkU/s320/P1000756.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decoys for Sale or Trade</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPdDsmVaKPcy6D9xEKWHHgYSoZNs-lYWuuh1BnQbmsFnT4ffGlghz7RSMtaPYqpMzK6niP0-4xOb_UK_ZW_fVV1VJOLpEwnQw7OOwleU9Y8-qGYPUg_Q1tiyCtg4ZciRxVXjH/s1600/P1000757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPdDsmVaKPcy6D9xEKWHHgYSoZNs-lYWuuh1BnQbmsFnT4ffGlghz7RSMtaPYqpMzK6niP0-4xOb_UK_ZW_fVV1VJOLpEwnQw7OOwleU9Y8-qGYPUg_Q1tiyCtg4ZciRxVXjH/s320/P1000757.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of Dozens of Tables of Old and New Decoys</td></tr>
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In a local park, the Sportman's Pavilion was set up. The tent housed about two dozen vendors who had everything from calls, to new blind setups. Outside was the Dock Dogs area, where dogs were being measured on the longest jump inot a pool of water. This was a huge draw for the kids.<br />
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In additon, there were some boat manufacturers, including Bankes Boats from Canada, who had two models out. The Pumpkinseed model below, would be towed out to an open water rig as a layout boat. Made of hand laid fiberglass, it is a stable platform with a lot of room inside, including shelves for ammo, lunch etc. It was 10' in length and could also be brushed up as a blind. Also on display was one of Bankes Open Water Duck Boats. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6euNkJ4QhU7gsFpok5pfSY33TBN29jrxJXELwGKbDvEmO21YmZdcopqlBYMsga7jQ_WgB81EXp-b9ie7zjkDptiDhOUTktalQHqMcYiRe4gwauwUOghwDoe35N1crRVUUNIQ/s1600/P1000637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6euNkJ4QhU7gsFpok5pfSY33TBN29jrxJXELwGKbDvEmO21YmZdcopqlBYMsga7jQ_WgB81EXp-b9ie7zjkDptiDhOUTktalQHqMcYiRe4gwauwUOghwDoe35N1crRVUUNIQ/s320/P1000637.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bankes 10' Pumpkinseed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguS4D0X0QyrRrGah8GedPN71M-gH2py3G2MzLMmwEKZVGaCPH8VaJww1HC35MBnB2knKAhbbrF-PZDt-8YBTcpUgUbrb47RtJ-h1scCwGTMbf40eb50uxH9rP6wBy7Rrrzxl5G/s1600/P1000638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguS4D0X0QyrRrGah8GedPN71M-gH2py3G2MzLMmwEKZVGaCPH8VaJww1HC35MBnB2knKAhbbrF-PZDt-8YBTcpUgUbrb47RtJ-h1scCwGTMbf40eb50uxH9rP6wBy7Rrrzxl5G/s320/P1000638.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bankes 17' Freedom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrtJSAVmDVQDQjX8WPWfgRIcOfoFAET9ZgFBJ3_013r9ogNUIcXD7UBCMhBIdNX6KrRSHihsuP3J0T_DdP8ZlbveYd1jJDgAbKTNZUczS_yFLFoOAqH2cV7kvw0BcMIYww8T8/s1600/P1000635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrtJSAVmDVQDQjX8WPWfgRIcOfoFAET9ZgFBJ3_013r9ogNUIcXD7UBCMhBIdNX6KrRSHihsuP3J0T_DdP8ZlbveYd1jJDgAbKTNZUczS_yFLFoOAqH2cV7kvw0BcMIYww8T8/s320/P1000635.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super Gator!!<br />
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The Waterfowl Festival is one of a few events every year, which helps to bring in tourism into a county that has a 40% poverty rate. While that is not as high as other rural areas, every $ helps out those in this beautiful part of the Mid-Atlantic.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl43Io8Je9jZh3bgt7zmXd3xexbvOO8qY83EJxfLTa39qKeN9uB6cOEUoUWw7Qn96EsRMpVJ3rE93G44jp7LIyqQYdur1lWjIazyC_7lE5zDnSXSL6eelKQwasm96FFGMjkzJs/s1600/P1000751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl43Io8Je9jZh3bgt7zmXd3xexbvOO8qY83EJxfLTa39qKeN9uB6cOEUoUWw7Qn96EsRMpVJ3rE93G44jp7LIyqQYdur1lWjIazyC_7lE5zDnSXSL6eelKQwasm96FFGMjkzJs/s320/P1000751.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Banner Hangs Over a Busy Sidewalk Scene</td></tr>
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<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34798190.post-32941685520925784962012-10-02T21:02:00.001-04:002012-10-02T21:05:13.511-04:00Skeet with Peyton You never know who will show up at your local skeet club...This is high speed High Definition video at 240 frames per second...<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hb0xnlIHrw&feature=g-upl" target="_blank">A Good Day at the Rod and Gun Club...Wildfowl Ninja filming..</a><br />
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It was a report pair from the high house on Station 7.<br />
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Love the new camera!!<br />
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<br />Eastern Shore Outdoorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17193190530796617585noreply@blogger.com0