Rick scores big this morning. Raging debate going on right now about whether this deer qualifies for the 8 point pool. Stay tuned.

SCENES FROM PRE OPENING DAY EVENING - I think Matt was trying to duck out of the picture. And David is practicing rattling the big one in! What a happy night.

It may be the opening day of the 2009 deer season, but Will James and his Dad hit the duck pit instead. This was Will's first duck hunt ever and what a great one it was! For the record, it is a beautiful, sunny day -- not exactly the kind of day you would expect to shoot ducks. And, no Will is not playing hookey - no school today! Way to go Will!

It is the day before opening deer season and here is what we are up to! Dave and Joe came early and couldn't wait to shoot a duck, which they did! They are back at it this afternoon.

YOU KNOW, when Gary arrives, the fun is about to begin. Nothing has changed with Gary...he is walking around here mumbling to himself. Something about let's get a big one on the ground....

In case you were wondering what Jill was up to -- we are whipping up the italian dinner for Thursday night. Baked a couple of turkeys for sandwiches. The lodge is absolutely oooozing with anticipation and excitement for tomorrow.

OPENING WEEKEND DUCK SEASON 2009 Jeff models his finest duck hunting makeup! The weather was 60 degrees, sunny and balmy. Jeff said that although no limits were taken, they were quite encouraged by the number and variety of ducks who came into the flooded corn as they were picking up decoys. He feels quite certain we are in for a good season with a little help from the weatherman. Now today would be a good day - isn't that the way it always goes? Stay tuned.

How about these glorious sunsets? When we start seeing scenes like this we know the deer hunters will be arriving soon - oh, and also the duck hunters!! I have been seeing some deer from my second story perch in the lodge.

SIGNS OF FALL CAN MEAN ONLY ONE THING -- the time of year we all look forward to is upon us! Jill has been out and about taking some photos of this glorious time of year.

Every morning the geese pile into the pond by the lodge. We haven't seen this many since they left with their babies in July. How fun!

The gardens are great as our hunting season approaches. NO weeds and lots of color. The ducks and geese are not far behind!