Passing it on.... and the WINNER is!!!!!
Contributors to this thread:Turkey
From: trkyslr
14-Jun-16
Well it seems this year we didn’t get the NSOB contest entries that we did a few years ago. Being we look forward to hosting a turkey hunt out here each year and meeting more and more bowsiters, we decided to select a winner of the hunt by changing some rules. Being we didn’t get any qualifying entries and it’s our contest, we can do that hehehe. We have elected to carefully pic a person who we think deserves to hopefully come out to Nor Cal and have a great hunt with us. And Im sure the rest of Bowsite would also agree with our selection. It is someone who is determined, a go-getter, doesn’t give up, always has a smile on her face, and who is the future of hunting. So yes by this if you haven’t figured out that’s it is a junior now you know. This spring we had so much fun hosting and hunting with Ryan (last year’s contest winner) and his father, Scott. Spending time with Ryan in the woods, seeing his smile and determination, and success on his giant big longbeard was priceless to us! We’d love to re live that same experience again in 2017, so for next year we have selected someone who we think fits that bill. Again as bowsiters have generously done in the past, as well as hosting the hunt I’ll be willing to make a donation to help with travel expenses………. DRUM ROLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
From: trkyslr
14-Jun-16
This young bowhunter ^^^^^^^^^^
Kia aka “Half Pint” we have selected you to hopefully come out to Nor Cal next year as we would love to hunt with you and your dad. We would love to be a part of hopefully your first turkey kill. Hope you can make it! If you are questionable just ask Ryan and Scott if the trip was worth it and a good time ;-)
From: trkyslr
14-Jun-16
Half pint and dad!
From: trkyslr
14-Jun-16
we hope Kia you can make it as we would like to see a pic like this but with a big California Rio gobbler!
From: midwest
14-Jun-16
Congrats, Kia! Have a blast!
Chris, what is Kia's dad's handle?
From: trkyslr
14-Jun-16
"Chris, what is Kia's dad's handle?" Brotsky
From: midwest
14-Jun-16
Oh, heck yeah...should have recognized him. Congrats Brotsky!
From: sitO
14-Jun-16
Great choice and a great team(Kia & Brotsky)! Have fun kiddo, and thanks again to the Trkyslr guys for such an opportunity!
From: Franzen
14-Jun-16
Nice, go get'em Kia. Kudos to you guys for doing this again.
From: Beav
14-Jun-16
Great selection! Really awesome of Trkyslr and company to do this.
From: SteveB
14-Jun-16
Congrats Kia and Brotsky!!
From: GhostBird
14-Jun-16
Congratulations Kia. Be a good girl and let your dad tag along.
From: Brotsky
14-Jun-16
Holy $#!%!! This is so awesome of you guys! I'm not going to lie, I sit here with tears in my eyes typing this because I know how much this is going to mean to Kia! She's wanted a turkey so bad the past two springs, especially last year to hopefully win a trip out to California to chase turkeys. She's such a good kid and hard worker! Straight A's in school, recognized as one of the students of the year at her honors night recently, 2nd year varsity high school gymnast as an 8th grader, recognized city wide as a student of character for mentoring an autistic student, and the list goes on and on with her. She's going to be over the moon when I call her in a few minutes! She's really been practicing hard too and shot fantastic from the adult stakes at the P&Y Rendezvous last weekend. This will give her extra incentive to score on her first bird! Chris and Joe, I've always been impressed with all you guys do on Bowsite. It'll be a pleasure to meet you guys and share the woods with you next spring!
From: Brotsky
14-Jun-16
You've got this Half Pint!
From: Southern draw
14-Jun-16
Congrats !!
From: Brotsky
14-Jun-16
I just got off the phone with Kia and she's beside herself!
Chris/Joe, just to give you an idea of the kind of kid you're getting, 30 seconds after I hung up with her I get this text:
"OMG, I'm so excited! How can I tell the people who chose me thank you?"
Before she told her friends, or did anything else her first thought was saying thank you. I wish I could take credit for stuff like that but I can't it must be her mom! Ha!
From: trkyslr
14-Jun-16
Brotsky, so so awesome to read both of your suprise responses... This is what it's all about and I'm so looking forward to next spring now! Can't wait! I'll pm you my info and we'll talk soon! Tell Kia there's a couple longbeards here with her name on them.
From: longbeard
14-Jun-16
Awesome job guys and congrats to Kia and Justin!!!
From: Pass-thru
14-Jun-16
Simply awesome! Congrats Kia!!!
From: Mark Watkins
14-Jun-16
Kia and Brotsky,
A HUGE CONGRATS to you both!!! Wohooooooooo!!!
This will be a great family trip memory maker!!!
Mark
From: Wayniac
14-Jun-16
Congrats!
From: Brotsky
14-Jun-16
Thanks guys! If I had to guess I'd say Kia probably has half of her bag packed by now! Ha!
From: drycreek
14-Jun-16
trkyslr, kudos to you for getting this together ! Pm me and let me know how I can help with traveling funds.
Congrats Half-Pint, and congrats Brotsky, you have a sweet little girl there !
From: HUNT MAN
14-Jun-16
This is what hunting is about . Good people and Good times. Thanks for all you guys do. Hunt
From: otcWill
14-Jun-16
Good stuff as always from Chris and Joe! Thanks for all y'all do and congrats to Kia!
From: joehunter8301
14-Jun-16
Can't wait to meet you guys. Gonna be a blast. Bring that happy attitude to Cali and I promise it will be a weekend we all will talk about for the rest of our lives. I can't wait!!! Congrats guys
From: jdbbro
14-Jun-16
Congrats Kia. I followed you and your dad's hunt. Perfect choice. trkyslr, you guys are top notch for doing what you do.
From: Grunter
14-Jun-16
What a great story! That will be a lifelong memory. Good luck!
From: Bowfreak
15-Jun-16
This will be great! I can't wait til it unfolds. Thank you Norcal boys for giving back.
From: Brotsky
15-Jun-16
This is so great you guys, you can't imagine the smile you've put on my little girl's face! She was a ball of fire last night with questions. She had a couple friends sleep over after gymnastics practice and she spent an hour downstairs trying to teach them how to turkey call. She might not have killed a turkey yet but it sure sounded like some were dying in her room last night! Ha!
From: trkyslr
15-Jun-16
Brotsky that's hilarious! Can't wait! :-)
From: kota-man
15-Jun-16
awesome all the way around...
From: Brotsky
15-Jun-16
Scott, I bet Morgan can already use a diaphragm call better than I can! Ha! I've never been able to get them to fit my palate the right way or something. I can use one just good enough to convince a tom that I'm not the real thing! Ha!
From: QQ Archery
15-Jun-16
QQ Archery's Link
congrads to both, Kia and dad specially memories for sure .
From: snapcrackpop
15-Jun-16
You HAVE picked a winner!
From: sticksender
15-Jun-16
Outstanding guys....can't wait to hear the full report on this little adventure.
From: t-roy
16-Jun-16
Congratulations Kia! Looking forward to this!
Better watch out Ryan! Looks like you've got some stiff competition for the "best grin" on Bowsite now;>)
From: writer
16-Jun-16
OK, now this is going to be fun.
Come on March!
Brotsky, please start a thread and keep us updated as to all you guys are doing to get ready.
The planning is about as much fun as the hunting when it's with kids, especially daughters.
From: Brotsky
17-Jun-16
Writer, you can bet we'll have a thread on it! Once we finalize all the details we'll get one started. Kia is always shooting, hunting and preparing so we'll have lots of pictures! The big thing for her is learning to keep her composure at the moment of truth. She has gobbler fever bad! She can hit targets lights out but when that big old gobbler is in full strut in the decoys she has a hard time keeping it all together, although this season she was light years better than last year. That's part of what makes hunting with her so much fun though! She loves it so much and wants to be successful so bad that she tends to put too much pressure on herself! We'll be working on that though throughout the summer and fall. Just as an example she said to me just last night "I really hope I don't miss a turkey, and let Chris and Joe down!" I just reminded her that she's practiced hard, is a great shot, and if she has fun, smiles, and is herself she'll never let anyone down! Then I reminded her that missing a turkey just means that you get to hunt another turkey! That got a big smile!
From: Brotsky
17-Jun-16
That's a great idea Scott! Kia's problem typically isn't rushing the shot. She usually takes quite a bit of time and really settles in on target. Her problem is form breaking down at the moment of execution. She's a "peeker". She's so excited to see that arrow whack that big tom that she's starting to move her bow out of the way at the shot causing her form to break down. We've really been working on holding the pin on the point of impact until the arrow gets there. We recently made a couple little changes to her shot routine that really seem to help her with that. As a result she's shooting excellent right now out to 30 yards. At the Pope and Young shoot she shot all 60+ targets without a miss from the regular stakes. The deep breath idea is good thing to add in for her to help calm her down and to remember to follow through on her shot! Thanks for the tip!
From: Brotsky
17-Jun-16
Thanks for the confidence Scott! I fully agree! I think this fall in the whitetail woods or next spring in the turkey woods we're going to see cute become killer! Ha!
From: Brotsky
20-Jun-16
Had a good talk with Chris on Saturday and I think we've got the basics squared away for Kia's trip to chase some NorCal turkeys! We'll be hunting junior weekend next year just like Ryan did this year. March 18/19. Kia's already counting the days! 270 days is what she told me this morning in case anyone wants to know! Ha!
From: GhostBird
20-Jun-16
270 days is going to be a loooooong time for Kia. When deer season gets here it will pass a lot faster. Good luck.
From: Brotsky
31-Jan-17
Triple X at 20 yards!!
Triple X at 20 yards!!
Hard at work competing in her 2nd love! Even she will tell you it takes a back seat to bowhunting! Ha!
Hard at work competing in her 2nd love! Even she will tell you it takes a back seat to bowhunting! Ha!
Half Pint's first bow kill, but she really wants a gobbler!
Half Pint's first bow kill, but she really wants a gobbler!
I thought I might bump this up to the top with a quick update! Half Pint and I will be headed to California March 16th to hunt the youth weekend with Chris and Joe. Two nicer gentlemen you will not find anywhere! To say she is excited is an understatement! She is supremely focused on gymnastics right now but is still finding time to stay sharp for those gobblers! She has her state championship qualifying meet on Friday which will determine if she will compete for the championship next weekend. She's worked really hard and this season and I think she'll make it! Any prayers of encouragement for her are certainly welcome! We'll start another thread in a few weeks leading up to her trip, etc. As you can see, she's got a bow kill under her belt now but turkeys are her passion and her nemesis! Thank you to everyone who is making this possible for her! Bowsite truly has some of the best people I've ever met posting on it!
From: GhostBird
31-Jan-17
Great to see her enjoying all the good stuff. I see many gobblers in her future... maybe she will let you shot one every once in a while!
From: EmbryOklahoma
31-Jan-17
When exactly is this going down? Looking forward to the story and pics!
From: t-roy
31-Jan-17
Good luck on Friday and I'm looking forward to how this hunt in March goes too!!
From: Charlie Rehor
31-Jan-17
That is so cool! Congrats to all involved! C
From: trkyslr
31-Jan-17
Can't wait for this!! Saw a bachelor group figuring out their pecking order yesterday with a strutter.. starting to get fired up!
From: orionsbrother
31-Jan-17
Thanks for bumping this up. I missed it over the summer. I'll be sharing it with the kids and we'll be following for sure. Kudos to Chris and Joe for doing this.
Good luck Kia!
From: writer
01-Feb-17
Pretty good gobbling most mornings in Kansas, like most Januaries. It will be a fun read with her writing and the images from Chris and Joe.
From: Brotsky
01-Feb-17
Writer, you can see the A's on her fletching in the picture above, I don't think she'll ever have another arrow without them!
Thanks for the kind words gentlemen! The days are flying by now!
From: Zackman
01-Feb-17
Good luck Kia!
From: joehunter8301
02-Feb-17
This is gonna be fun -->------>
From: joehunter8301
02-Feb-17
This is gonna be fun -->------>
From: BOWUNTR
02-Feb-17
This is outstanding and very generous... This is what it's all about. Kids are great. Good luck Half Pint. Ed F
From: Scar Finga
02-Feb-17
Excellent:) Good Luck!!!
God Bless,
Scar.
From: drycreek
02-Feb-17
Not long now..........!!!!
Brotsky, pm sent
From: Dennis Razza
02-Feb-17
Great job guys. Awesome !!!
From: GhostBird
02-Feb-17
Justin... PM sent.
From: Brotsky
03-Feb-17
With a smile like that you know she stuck it! Qualified for the state championship!
From: Brotsky
04-Feb-17
Scoot, she likes her nick name, feel free! One more week of hard work for her to prepare before her focus switched over to turkeys!
From: trkyslr
17-Feb-17
Kia I can't wait for you to be the first to break these new DSD decoys in with some red character added to them. Gonna be fun... no pressure! ;-)
From: Brotsky
17-Feb-17
Chris, she says "I know pressure, do those gobblers?" Ha! She's counting the days now! We can't wait to meet you guys and experience some California turkeys!
From: Timbrhuntr
18-Feb-17
I can't imagine how exited you must be about this hunt. I can't hardly wait and I'm not even involved !! I'm sure you'll put those new DSD's through their paces.
From: trkyslr
21-Feb-17
Drowned rats.... they want some sunshine too!
From: writer
21-Feb-17
Make sure she doesn't shoot the decoys by mistake...they look that real. Had five longbeards bum rush one on Jan. 25...and now there are four, and mud on the back of the DSD. (A little blood, too.) Please get video of when she does one of those back flip thingies after she drills a big California longbeard. I tripped over a root one time running to a bird. It wasn't quite that artistic, but it was a lot more painful, I'm sure.
From: trkyslr
21-Feb-17
Michael, we will for sure! Can't wait gonna be fun whether we're hunting on the ground or by boat.
From: Brotsky
22-Feb-17
By air, sea, or land! Half Pint says she'll do whatever it takes to get on one of those drowned rats!
From: Mark Watkins
22-Feb-17
Brotsky, When is the state meet?
Tell her good luck on both adventures!!!
Keep us posted!
Mark
From: Brotsky
22-Feb-17
Mark, it was about 10 days ago. She did pretty well, finished middle of the pack and looked like she belonged there. That was her goal for this season as a ninth grader, qualify and compete and she exceeded that IMO. She's at the stage right now where to compare it with golf she's about a 7-8 handicap trying to get down to scratch to compete with the top girls. If you're a golfer you know how hard those last few shots are to shave off. She needs to add some of the most difficult skills before next season to move into that upper tier. I'm going to get her some more classes, camps, etc over the off season to hopefully add some if not all of those for next year. She also wants to do an off-season strengthening program which is huge for gymnastics. I've had a lot of coaches come up to her mother and I and tell us she has a lot of potential which is always good to hear! We have a deal, we'll keep her in class/camp etc. as long as she works hard and has fun, there's never any pressure on her. She tends to put everything into whatever she does. I know right now she is 100% focused on killing turkeys! Ha! Thanks for asking!
From: Scar Finga
22-Feb-17
Brotsky,
That's great all the way around! Looks like a great girl with a lot of talent!
Congrats on her accomplishments and drive!
God Bless,
Scar.
From: Brotsky
22-Feb-17
Those old tom's are in BIG trouble. Half Pint is dialed in with her 125 gr Bullheads. She shot the gobbler off her pillow so I drew a quarter sized black dot and she shot out the X on that as well! Arrows seem to be flying really good with plenty of energy. We had a little trouble on her first drawback as her blades contacted her sight housing. After indexing a little better we got that squared away and she was dead on the money!
From: trkyslr
22-Feb-17
Excellent!!!! Keep the practice going Kia and it will pay off for you!! Only 24 more days...
From: Mark Watkins
22-Feb-17
Pretty sure half pint will continue to be successful at whatever she puts her mind to!!!
This kid is a rock star!!!
Glad I'm not a Cali Turk!!!
Mark
From: Scoot
23-Feb-17
Half-pint, Ryan and I are both cheering for you. I'll make sure Morgan gets looped in on this hunt too so she can see a good role model as far as a female bowhunter goes. Morgan likes to hunt when she's the shooter, but not much when she's not. Showing all of your practice and effort to get ready for this hunt will hopefully positively impact her.
NorCal turkeys are in trouble! I predict a couple toms with catastrophic headaches in your future! :)
From: bear bowman
23-Feb-17
I am so happy for the two of you. Her smile is contagious. I wish you both the best of luck and I'm quite sure you'll have a great time.
From: HUNT MAN
23-Feb-17
Good stuff here !! Can't wait for the trophy photos!! Thanks Chris and Joe!!
From: midwest
23-Feb-17
Good luck, half-pint!
From: orionsbrother
23-Feb-17
Just shared the update and pics with my kids. They're excited for half-pint too. We're pullin' for ya from the Flatland!
Another tip of the hat for you Cali boys. As a dad, I think this is a very cool thing you're doing. I hope circumstances allow you to continue this in the future.
From: Brotsky
24-Feb-17
Thank you for all the kind words guys! She's ready and counting the days! This will be a big adventure for us both. She's never even been on a plane before so it all starts with that! Ha!
Thought I'd give you guys a little run down on half pint's bow set-up for her hunt, I've had a couple people ask me about it so thought I'd just post it here for all that are following along that would like to know.
Bow: Bear Apprentice 3 Draw: 23" Weight: 40# String: 60X Custom BCY X (This made a HUGE difference in performance on her bow) Sight: IQ 5 pin micro (Courtesy of the Bowsite photo contest! Thanks Pat and Feradyne outdoors!) Stabilizer: B Stinger 6" sport hunter Arrows: 26" Easton FMJ 500's w/blazer vanes, max helical 400 gr total arrow weight Broadhead: 125gr Magnus bullhead Release: Scott Hero All of the above with the exception of the sight is in some form of pink lol! I have not chrono'd her set-up but if I had to put a number on speed I'd say somewhere around 190 fps give or take.
From: joehunter8301
24-Feb-17
Cali scenery
Cali scenery
It's a gorgeous day here today. Birds are chirping and a cool crisp morning. Getting us fired up for the junior hunt. Can not wait!!! :)
From: t-roy
24-Feb-17
Brotsky, if you video the hunt, tell Kia that after she kills her first bird, we expect to see a double back flip with a half twist! (from her, not the bird)!
From: Brotsky
24-Feb-17
Troy, if she gets that first bird I think I'll do a double back flip! Ha!
From: Brotsky
24-Feb-17
"No THAT, I want to see!!! Haha!"
I never said it would be airborne Scoot! Ha!
Bring Morgan down anytime, Kia would love to take her over to the trampoline park. My back hurts just thinking about it! Ha!
From: t-roy
24-Feb-17
You'd probably get screwed by the Russian judge too! Big deductions on the dismount I'm betting :-)
From: Brotsky
25-Feb-17
We have so many people to thank for making this trip possible for Half Pint and we certainly will thank them all personally but I wanted to post this and thank GhostBird for making Kia one of his beautiful custom box calls commemorating her hunt. Andy is a true artist and I've admired his work for a long time here on Bowsite. Kia absolutely loves her call and I know she'll treasure it for a lifetime. When her brother asked to hold it and look at it there was fire in her eyes! Ha! Thank you Andy! Your call and the memories she is making from this experience are priceless and we haven't even gotten to the hunt part yet! Thanks guys!
From: Brotsky
27-Feb-17
Practicing from her chair is great training for shooting out of a ground blind!
Practicing from her chair is great training for shooting out of a ground blind!
Looks like a headache is in store for some gobblers! Also good on the body shot! A few stray arrows though we are working to clean up!
Looks like a headache is in store for some gobblers! Also good on the body shot! A few stray arrows though we are working to clean up!
The old Tom's around here are getting pretty cocky, even photo bombing her now! I think she is going to be looking for some payback!
The old Tom's around here are getting pretty cocky, even photo bombing her now! I think she is going to be looking for some payback!
Half Pint was hard at work again this weekend! We were really busy with stuff going on between her siblings, school stuff, church, etc. but she still managed to get to the range both days for some practice! Her shooting is coming into form nicely and should be spot on in a couple weeks!
From: Shug
27-Feb-17
Well at least it wasn't the cast of La La Land....
Great stuff you're doing Chris
From: trkyslr
28-Feb-17
They do exist :-)
From: Brotsky
28-Feb-17
She's putting in the work...as always with a big smile on her face!
From: Wayniac
02-Mar-17
Good luck! My nephew finally got one this fall.... huge smile afterwards. Hoping he and his younger brother do well this year. Looking forward to an update on half-pints hunt.
From: t-roy
02-Mar-17
Counting down the days!
From: Brotsky
03-Mar-17
Only two weeks to go! We're now starting to debate the most serious aspects of this hunt, like what nail colors to go with. I think she decided on this with a turkey on the thumb instead of a target, in more subdued colors for the natural setup of course. SMH...(that's shake my head for the abbreviation challenged Ha!)
From: Brotsky
03-Mar-17
Scoot, we still need to match hair bands to camo and socks with boots. I hope we have enough time! :)
From: GhostBird
03-Mar-17
Love all the detailed prep work. There is a lot that goes into a special hunt like this.
From: Scoot
08-Mar-17
Ten days away, Kia! Tick tock, tick tock... Sleep tight!!! :)
From: drycreek
08-Mar-17
I may not get to hunt turkeys this year, but I'm sure looking forward to this hunt ! Go get'em Kia !
From: Brotsky
08-Mar-17
The days are going by fast now! She's starting to get packed up and is practicing hard! I'm out of town this week but HP and her mother are slinging arrows getting ready for turkey season!
From: t-roy
08-Mar-17
Kia, my wife LOVED your nails! It has inspired her to come up with a "fish theme" for her nails for when we go to Ontario on our annual fishing trip. Thanks.......I think ;-)
From: Brotsky
11-Mar-17
Troy, here's the final product! Glad we got the hard part out of the way! Ha!
From: trkyslr
11-Mar-17
Less then a week... can't wait! Birds are starting to get with it and we should see one or two ;-)
From: Brotsky
12-Mar-17
Half Pint's putting the final touches on her shooting! She shot great today and we'll have a couple more practice sessions before go time. She's ready!
From: Alexis Desjardins
12-Mar-17
We're pulling for her, should be fun.
From: joehunter8301
14-Mar-17
Half pint these guys expect to see you in less than a week :)
From: Brotsky
14-Mar-17
Joe, she is hoping the one on the right will hold his head still just like that :)
From: loopmtz
14-Mar-17
The nails rock!!
From: trkyslr
14-Mar-17
A couple more... :-)
From: trkyslr
14-Mar-17
Fired up!
From: Brotsky
14-Mar-17
Only one more day of school, only one more day of school! I'm trying to keep her focused here guys! Ha!
I think Kia is going to be as fired up as those toms once she sees these pictures! It is really starting to become "real" for her now. She always knew she was going but it seemed so far away for a kid. Now that we are starting to pack and get our gear together and organizing everything we're going to bring along she's over the top excited and has so many questions. I couldn't imagine getting to do something like this at her age. This is such a special experience for her and as a dad getting to see that it is an awesome feeling! At this point I'm more worried about her old man holding it together if she gets a turkey than her! Ha!
From: EmbryOklahoma
14-Mar-17
That's one time you can cry after a kill, Brotsky. :)
From: Brotsky
14-Mar-17
It's only okay to cry if I don't pet it, one or the other, not both. :)
From: Timbrhuntr
14-Mar-17
Awesome ! When are you starting on the week end ?
From: t-roy
14-Mar-17
And for goodness sakes, don't use a Rage unless her FOC is good. Oh yeah, and don't chip those nails ;-)
Have a great trip, stay safe and enjoy every minute of it!
From: boothill
14-Mar-17
Good luck Brotsky and Half Pint... This is going to be an awesome adventure I'm sure and I can't wait to follow along. But I'm thinking a new thread may be in order. This one could be rather lengthy by the end of the hunt.
From: Brotsky
14-Mar-17
Boot, this is Chris/Joe's thread and I'll defer to them, but I like the idea of having it all in one. The announcement, the lead up to the hunt, and the conclusion all in one seems fitting to me. Think of the scrolling to the bottom as extra exercise for elk season:)
From: boothill
14-Mar-17
So true Brotsky so true....
From: trkyslr
14-Mar-17
Little afternoon scout... :-)
From: JohnB
14-Mar-17
Chris it's a wonderful thing you are doing sir! My money is on Half Pint! Go girl!
From: trkyslr
14-Mar-17
Thanks John but don't forget to give joe some credit as well... we both enjoy this and do it as a team! Birds are getting very fired up with warm spring weather we're finally getting.
From: Brotsky
15-Mar-17
Kia and I looked at the scouting pics last night and she said any of those will do just fine! She'll save the mega jakes for Joe! Ha!
I know how she works, once she gets the bow in her hand anything with a visible beard is in trouble, even her old man! :)
From: HalfPintMom
15-Mar-17
Hey everyone this is Nichole, you can see from my handle I'm Kia's mom! My two kids (one big, one little) are all packed but they almost forgot their sign! I'm sure the turkeys are safe from them but the rest of the west coast might want to be on alert with these two on the loose without adult supervision! Thank you so much to everyone that has made this happen for my daughter! It means so much to us! Good luck team!
From: sitO
15-Mar-17
This is a great thing, good luck out there "kids"!
From: EmbryOklahoma
15-Mar-17
Awesome! I'm looking forward to this. Good luck Kia!
From: trkyslr
15-Mar-17
Halfpintmom welcome to Bowsite!!!! I'll do my best to watch over the kidos for you... and get Kia a bird or two!
From: HalfPintMom
16-Mar-17
One happy little turkey makes one happy big turkey...what an adventure to watch unfold!
One happy little turkey makes one happy big turkey...what an adventure to watch unfold!
Thanks trkyslr!!! They are off and ready
From: joehunter8301
16-Mar-17
I can't wait!!!
From: kota-man
16-Mar-17
Hee haw...Let's get on with it guys...
From: Brotsky
16-Mar-17
That's what she said....
From: GhostBird
16-Mar-17
Good luck Kia... I know Chris & Joe will get you on some nice birds.
From: boothill
16-Mar-17
Good Luck! Will be following along and awaiting updates
From: Brotsky
17-Mar-17
Half Pint and I made it safely to California yesterday! We had a LONG day but a fun one! Took in the Warriors game last night and today we're headed up to meet Chris and Joe! She's having an awesome time so far and the best is yet to come!
From: Bullhound
17-Mar-17
Wow! Good Luck! This is the kind of thing I visit Bowsite for. That lil girl has to have the biggest smile I've ever seen!!!
Good on you guys for setting this up!
From: t-roy
17-Mar-17
Brotsky & Kia, hopefully the Warriors didn't "rest" their starters for your game!
Good luck tomorrow and try to get some sleep tonight!
From: drycreek
17-Mar-17
Next time I open this thread, I want to see some LDPs. That's Laying Dead Pics for y'all unfamiliar. Go get'em Kia !
From: Marty
17-Mar-17
Good luck!!
From: Medicinemann
17-Mar-17
This thread is about to get real good, real fast.....
From: stick n string
17-Mar-17
Good luck Kia! Cant wait for the next 12 hours to unfold. Dont be stingy with the updates...... special special thing guys......
From: Charlie Rehor
18-Mar-17
Keep it fun! Good luck!
From: Half pint mom
18-Mar-17
Nothing clears the mind like an afternoon out shooting!
Nothing clears the mind like an afternoon out shooting!
So excited, little jealous-LOL for the turkey hunt update! I can't thank all of you who have made this experience for both of them an everlasting memory! I sent her a message this morning to remind her it's not always about the kill, but it's the hunt and memories that are made!!! I have faith that half pint as determined and dedicated she has been, she will get one!! I couldn't ask for a better role model for Kia! Justin has taken us under his wing and had a whole lot of patience teaching us the ropes of bow hunting! It is an unbelievable bond! FYI turkey's were my favorite hunt until we went on our bear hunt! LOL! Thank you all and good luck half pint! Keep that SMILE!
From: Franzen
18-Mar-17
The chorus ought to be starting any time out there! Ideally you guys would string us along a bit with some hunting story drama, but if you immediately come back with a hero shot there aren't going to be any complaints either! ;^)
From: orionsbrother
18-Mar-17
Looking forward to this! Have fun!
From: Paul@thefort
18-Mar-17
They said, "something tells us we are in deep trouble!"
Paul said, "have a good time and great memories".
From: Alexis Desjardins
18-Mar-17
Good Luck, have fun
From: EmbryOklahoma
18-Mar-17
Just sitting here waiting, impatiently. :)
From: stick n string
18-Mar-17
I didnt wanna be the guy.... thanks embry...ha
From: writer
18-Mar-17
Owe you, Embry, Thanks...
From: orionsbrother
18-Mar-17
Yeah... checking in with an eight year old. Same level of patient anticipation here.
From: trkyslr
18-Mar-17
Well today was by far the absolute toughest opening day junior hunt I've ever been apart of in the turkeys woods. Birds were extremely henned up and later on with a metal detecting jack scarring off some located birds it was tough tough.. finally around 3 pm we got onto a couple jakes that we got to respond and come in.. Kia was at full drawn and I was holding my breath turning red.. she released and her arrow tipped with bullhead missed left by maybe one inch... man it was so close. We then moved down the ridge and setup again and after 40 minutes we got a mature Tom to come into the deeks god and fast.. Kia released and her arrow this time missed by maybe less then one inch ... man soooooo close.. but Kia is one determined girl after a little heart break she was ready for more but time ran out for the day. We had a great time and covered over 4 miles all day and showed Justin and Kia some great ranches.. tomorrow is another day and we will get it done! I have faith it will happen and we will give it hell trying up until the last minute again if need be. Here's a few pics taken with my phone and at the conclusion of this weekend we'll make this a heavy pic thread for sure.
From: trkyslr
18-Mar-17
Scenery never gets old here in Nor Cal
From: trkyslr
18-Mar-17
Kia is such an awesome girl and driven bowhunter... the sky is the limit for her and she is the future of hunting.. sign made it to Cali :-)
From: trkyslr
18-Mar-17
Lucky jake
From: trkyslr
18-Mar-17
Lucky Tom... tmrw it is on and we can't wait to get back it. We have several birds rooster and hopefully will seal the deal.
From: HUNT MAN
18-Mar-17
Tomorrow is a new day. Best of luck ! Aim small miss small! Hunt
From: writer
18-Mar-17
The ultimate hunt ends with success in the final minute of the final hour, after busting your tail every second of the way. Tomorrow you'll get into a gang of two-year-olds that will only leave the decoys if they're carried upside-down, over Kia's shoulder.
From: t-roy
18-Mar-17
Keep at it Kia! Tomorrow is the day!
From: orionsbrother
18-Mar-17
The plot thickens! It's just getting more exciting Kia! You've got a great team out there and some small fans in my house. We're pullin' for ya! Have fun with all of it. We'll be checking in, repeatedly tomorrow.
From: Paul@thefort
18-Mar-17
'We better get out of town by tomorrow or else!'
From: Half pint mom
19-Mar-17
As Kia has shown her determination in many other aspects in life...gymnastics, 4.0 grade average I know she can do it!!! S.M.I.L.E-See, Miracles, In, Life, Everyday! YOU GOT THIS!!
From: EmbryOklahoma
19-Mar-17
Best of luck on Sunday!
From: JW
19-Mar-17
Great thread ! Best of luck Kia, stay after em!
From: Timbrhuntr
19-Mar-17
Off with their heads !!!
From: drycreek
19-Mar-17
Good luck this morning !
From: Medicinemann
19-Mar-17
tic...toc....tic...toc...
From: fastflight
19-Mar-17
Hope everything is ok. Not like this group to not post updates.
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
Today was anither really fun day... off the roost we had a very wimpy two year old tease us but wouldn't commit to the decoys as we learned later he had been whooped on a lot when every Tom was beating up on him. Then the day was very slow again until 2 pm.. we hiked some great country in search of some birds... Justin and Kia
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
At 2 pm called these jakes in that unfortunately will live to see another day....
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
One of our setups....
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
Kia may of been a little upset but she stayed positive and was ready to get back after it ...... joe and i spent several hours in a blind with Justin and Kia and became friends.. we had laughs and told stories....
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
Some of us also took turkey naps (joe?! Lol) but with one hour left in the hunt I decided to make a move and relocate to a spot in hopes of some last minute luck... well it took only a few minutes to get this fired up big Tom in... unfortunately he is still in the woods gobbling non stop... even though Kia didn't connect on this bird she really enjoyed the hunt and was already talking about things she has learned with her own shooting and turkey hunting. Kia is such a go getter and I feel sorry for when she breaks the ice on turkeys cuz they're gonna pay the price big time....
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
After the hunt we had some traditional turkey season ice cream, which was enjoyed by all....
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
We really had a great weekend with Kia and Justin and I'm sure they will be back for Kia to get revenge on some Cali turkeys.. during their stay Kia became my daughter Gia's newest "bff" and loved spending time with her. Kia really surprised me before she and Justin left she told me she was giving Gia her bow as a gift to pass it on.. I was touched by her generousity in doing so and will be forever thankful.. Gia was very excited as well.
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
Kia also wanted to take this picture with Gia .... :-)
From: trkyslr
19-Mar-17
I want to thank Justin and Kia again for making the trip out and spending time with joe and I in our woods... we had a great time!!! Joe and I have more photos which we 'll post to this in the next few days when we get caught up... I can't wait to see the posts and pics of Kia first turkey kill as it will happen! I have faith she will get it done as she is one of the most determined and disciplined young ladies I've met! Also thanks to everyone who chipped in to Kia to make this trip for them easier. This is a great Bowsite community!
From: EmbryOklahoma
19-Mar-17
Friends made, moments and memories etched... that's better than any kill. Next time, Kia. Way to be a great father, Justin!
Chris and Joe, you guys are good dudes. Best of luck to you ALL throughout your hunting endeavors in the future.
From: Brotsky
20-Mar-17
Wow! What a great trip! Just because there was no kill doesn't mean there's no hero shot! Kia has two new heros! Chris and Joe are two great guys I'm damn proud to call friends after hunting together a couple days. They were an outstanding influence on my daughter. We had ups and downs and worked hard for two straight days and in the final minutes we had a chance at an absolute giant Cali tom that is still with us by an inch. I'll post a bunch of pics and some of our play by play when we get back to SD and get settled in, probably on Tuesday. I can't thank these gentlemen enough for all they did for us. All of you that chipped in and helped us out I know you all wanted to see Kia get that first bird as bad as Joe, Chris, and myself. Kia said something to me today that brought it all into perspective: "making new friends and making memories is good enough for me!"
From: Brotsky
20-Mar-17
One more quick photo and one of my favorites. Kia learning the ropes from two turkey killing machines!
From: WV Mountaineer
20-Mar-17
Awesome experience. Made possible by awesome people. God Bless men
From: Half pint mom
20-Mar-17
I just want to thank all of those that contributed to Kia's trip, especially Chris and Joe! It has been so heartwarming to follow all the posts! It literally brings tears to my eyes! I can't imagine all the memories that were made and what a very special bond between a father and daughter! It was a trip of a lifetime!! I talked to her tonight and I could tell that her beautiful smile was still on! I can't wait to hear all the stories when they return! What a great experience joe and Chris are giving our "future" hunters!!
From: Brotsky
20-Mar-17
I'm going to have to teach halfpintmom about Bowsite when I get home, how to post pictures, and that believe it or not for some of you guys, it's not Facebook! Ha!
From: Brotsky
20-Mar-17
Kia reading updates and well wishes on Bowsite. The look on her face says it all! She really appreciates all the support and encouragement she receives from all of you.
From: Charlie Rehor
20-Mar-17
Well done by all!
From: orionsbrother
20-Mar-17
Kia - The kids and I had fun following your adventure. You set quite an example for them by gifting your bow to Chris's daughter. I'm sure that your dad is pretty proud. Remember that dads require a certain amount of maintenance. Do your best to initiate lots of time together with a bow in hand and a pack on your back.
Chris and Joe - My hat's off to you guys.
From: joehunter8301
20-Mar-17
The crew!
The crew!
What a great weekend. So many smiles, laughs, and memories made. Kia and Justin were awesome guest, couldn't have asked for a better group to join us on this adventure. From the moment I met them both I knew the weekend was going to be a special one. Kia was such a well mannered young lady always said thank you and please (which seems rare these days) and always had a smile. She got a little down with a few close opportunities but I reminded her that she was on an adventure that most the people on Bowsite would only dream of doing. That put a big smile on her face. Loved seeing that. Chris and I hiked all over the hills and not once did she complain. She was right on our heels and loving the scenery. Another thing I loved was how Justin treated Kia. He always told her he loved her no matter what and kept her positive and spirits up after some close calls. That made me smile when I would hear that. Justin you are a great dude and welcome in our camp anytime. I know I sure had a great weekend with you guys and wish it didn't end soon. Kia will soon enough be a turkey killin fool and I can't wait to see her contagious smile in a pic behind a bird!! Thank you everyone who made this past weekend possible it was special for all of us. Bowsite has some great people on here and we are blessed to be able to make some people's lives a little brighter. Good luck this spring everyone. Here's a few pix I took. Enjoy
From: joehunter8301
20-Mar-17
Those nails!!
Those nails!!
From: joehunter8301
20-Mar-17
Jake action!!
Jake action!!
Which one is real?
Which one is real?
From: joehunter8301
20-Mar-17
Another hen that made a new friend
Another hen that made a new friend
One of our setups that produced
One of our setups that produced
From: joehunter8301
20-Mar-17
The gymnast doin what she does best!
The gymnast doin what she does best!
This longhorn was so neat to see!
This longhorn was so neat to see!
From: joehunter8301
20-Mar-17
From: Timbrhuntr
20-Mar-17
AWESOME !!!
From: Franzen
20-Mar-17
Congratulations Kia. I know you didn't get a tom this time, but you have something better... a family and friends that not only support you in your hunting exploits and other dreams, but also want to take part in it with you! You can't beat that, and a big part of the fun with turkey hunting is simply watching the show. You had that and much more on this trip, and I'm sure you will fill one of those tags soon enough.
Looks like you all had a blast, which is the most important part. Thanks for sharing it with us.
From: drycreek
20-Mar-17
Well Kia, I'm so sorry you didn't connect, but you had a good time and made some new friends, and that alone was worth the trip. If you continue to bowhunt, (and that looks like a given), you will go home empty handed more than not. That's bowhunting, and that's one reason we do it. It ain't easy ! Another reason is the hunt itself, even if no blood spills. To a hunter, the breaking of dawn, be it Tom turkeys or Cape Buffalo, is a special time, even more so if shared by friends/family. So chalk this up to experience, and a good one at that, and keep on bowhunting !
Chris and Joe, you guys rock ! And Justin, well, what can I say, you're just a good Dad and I know Kia is proud of you.
From: Alexis Desjardins
20-Mar-17
It's not all about the kill, it's the fellowship and experience and great memories. Kia when u do kill your turkey it will be special, thanks for sharing your adventure.
From: t-roy
20-Mar-17
Although a turkey didn't fall, sounds like your trip was very successful on so many fronts! I'm sure we'll see your smiling face (and nails) behind a big ol tom soon enough!
Hats off to Chris & Joe as well. Great thing you guys are doing!
From: loopmtz
20-Mar-17
That was great. Thanks for sharing!
From: longbeard
20-Mar-17
Being a turkey addict myself, I am proud of what you guys did/do to extend your best to another bowsiter and his daughter! Congrats Chris and Joe you guys are true gentlemen of the sport! Hang in there Kia it will happen and when it does you will be addicted!
From: Nick Muche
20-Mar-17
Great job to everyone, really enjoyed the pictures. I'm sure Justin and Kia had a blast!
From: JohnB
21-Mar-17
This is the kind of thread that makes bowsite so awesome! Thanks to all who took part even that ugly old longhorn!
From: Paul@thefort
21-Mar-17
As a wise old owl said, " there will always be another day and the best days are yet to come."
Nice hunt everyone and thank you very much for sharing your experience. my best, Paul
From: Julius K
21-Mar-17
Thanks for sharing guys, what an awesome hunt.
From: otcWill
21-Mar-17
Great stuff! Thanks for bringing us along.
From: Charlie Rehor
21-Mar-17
Good Dad, good family, good friends!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
Kia on her first flight ever! She was scared to look out the window!
Kia on her first flight ever! She was scared to look out the window!
It didn't take long for her to become a seasoned flyer. :)
It didn't take long for her to become a seasoned flyer. :)
Kia and I made it home late last night safely from our trip out to California for an outstanding hunt with Chris and Joe. We joked on the way home that Kia probably has the record for the most bowsite threads that never end with any dead critters! Ha! Chris and Joe did a great job of posting updates above. I'll do a quick run down of our entire trip here heavy with pics! I want all of the guys who were so generous with their donations and support to see what they helped accomplish for this little girl, the memories that will last a lifetime!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
We had a layover in Dallas on the way (don't ask, it's just how air travel out of Sioux Falls works). It didn't take long for half pint to find a candy shop!
We had a layover in Dallas on the way (don't ask, it's just how air travel out of Sioux Falls works). It didn't take long for half pint to find a candy shop!
We were soon back on our way to Sacramento. We landed safely and Kia retrieved her luggage from baggage claim! Ha!
We were soon back on our way to Sacramento. We landed safely and Kia retrieved her luggage from baggage claim! Ha!
We stopped at Kia's favorite place to eat for a milk shake and a burger! She loves Red Robin!
We stopped at Kia's favorite place to eat for a milk shake and a burger! She loves Red Robin!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
Kia is a huge basketball fan and loves the Golden State Warriors. When I checked the schedule and saw they had a home game we decided we had to go and make some memories!
Kia is a huge basketball fan and loves the Golden State Warriors. When I checked the schedule and saw they had a home game we decided we had to go and make some memories!
She also wanted to make sure EmbryOklahoma knew how she felt about his football team on the way to the game! :)
She also wanted to make sure EmbryOklahoma knew how she felt about his football team on the way to the game! :)
Kia had a great time at the game even though it had been an extremely long day of travel! Mesmerized by how big, strong, and talented her favorite team was in person!
Kia had a great time at the game even though it had been an extremely long day of travel! Mesmerized by how big, strong, and talented her favorite team was in person!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
The next morning we were up early and on the road. We had to make a quick stop at Bass Pro, I knew Kia needed some lighter weight pants when we realized how warm it was in Cali!
The next morning we were up early and on the road. We had to make a quick stop at Bass Pro, I knew Kia needed some lighter weight pants when we realized how warm it was in Cali!
These turkeys are going down!
These turkeys are going down!
We soon met up with Chris at his place and Kia signed her license and was ready for the next day's hunt!
We soon met up with Chris at his place and Kia signed her license and was ready for the next day's hunt!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
Our first set-up on the roost saw lots of gobbles, unfortunately the birds pitched down on top of the ridge and were immediately henned up. We had some hens near us, but no toms or jakes.
Our first set-up on the roost saw lots of gobbles, unfortunately the birds pitched down on top of the ridge and were immediately henned up. We had some hens near us, but no toms or jakes.
We were soon on the move to try to get back in front of the birds.
We were soon on the move to try to get back in front of the birds.
Another one of my favorite pics from the trip, Kia and Joebowhntr making friends while Trkyslr went up ahead to see if he could pinpoint where the birds had gone off the roost.
Another one of my favorite pics from the trip, Kia and Joebowhntr making friends while Trkyslr went up ahead to see if he could pinpoint where the birds had gone off the roost.
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
We determined the birds had moved down into an olive orchard and we wouldn't be able to make a play on them. It was on to set-up number two after we found a few longbeards that seemed willing.
We determined the birds had moved down into an olive orchard and we wouldn't be able to make a play on them. It was on to set-up number two after we found a few longbeards that seemed willing.
We were back on the move a while later when the birds went quiet. We later determined that a guy out metal detecting had blown out our birds.
We were back on the move a while later when the birds went quiet. We later determined that a guy out metal detecting had blown out our birds.
Kia decided that if she couldn't shoot any turkeys she'd just have a turkey sandwich instead!
Kia decided that if she couldn't shoot any turkeys she'd just have a turkey sandwich instead!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
We searched high and low, across hill and stream for the rest of the morning/early afternoon and the birds were silent. Kia was a trooper, never complained and humped the hills like a champ!
We searched high and low, across hill and stream for the rest of the morning/early afternoon and the birds were silent. Kia was a trooper, never complained and humped the hills like a champ!
As the afternoon heated up so did the birds, on our way in to set-up after we spotted two jakes strutting nearby. We had a good feeling we could get them to play.
As the afternoon heated up so did the birds, on our way in to set-up after we spotted two jakes strutting nearby. We had a good feeling we could get them to play.
Sure enough they gobbled almost immediately and started to move in our direction. The "turkey ninjas" were doing their thing!
Sure enough they gobbled almost immediately and started to move in our direction. The "turkey ninjas" were doing their thing!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
These two jakes shortly moved into the decoy set-up and attacked the DSD Jake. Kia drew back and missed by an inch to the left of the Jake as he was in this position on the decoy. So close!
These two jakes shortly moved into the decoy set-up and attacked the DSD Jake. Kia drew back and missed by an inch to the left of the Jake as he was in this position on the decoy. So close!
We adjusted our location slightly and soon enough this short bearded two year old was attacking the decoy. Kia's shot was again just barely off the mark by an inch or two. That was it for day 1.
We adjusted our location slightly and soon enough this short bearded two year old was attacking the decoy. Kia's shot was again just barely off the mark by an inch or two. That was it for day 1.
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
The next morning we had action right off the roost but a wimpy two year old refused to commit to the decoys. So we were again on the move looking for a hot bird!
The next morning we had action right off the roost but a wimpy two year old refused to commit to the decoys. So we were again on the move looking for a hot bird!
The birds behaved similar to how they did the day before and went quiet. We moved around and saw birds but they were henned up and unresponsive.
The birds behaved similar to how they did the day before and went quiet. We moved around and saw birds but they were henned up and unresponsive.
The scenery was well worth the walking! Chris and Joe and Half Pint watching a flock of longbeards trying to see if we had a play.
The scenery was well worth the walking! Chris and Joe and Half Pint watching a flock of longbeards trying to see if we had a play.
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
Trkyslr called and called some more, and we moved and moved some more looking for a bird that wanted to play.
Trkyslr called and called some more, and we moved and moved some more looking for a bird that wanted to play.
Chris, Joe, Half Pint, and myself anxiously listened for gobbles at each stop. Finally we got a response!
Chris, Joe, Half Pint, and myself anxiously listened for gobbles at each stop. Finally we got a response!
These jakes came in hot closing fast!
These jakes came in hot closing fast!
They attacked and Kia jumped about a foot off her chair! Kia's shot again was just barely off, the jake turned at the last second on one shot or he may have met his end! The "Kia curse" continued!
They attacked and Kia jumped about a foot off her chair! Kia's shot again was just barely off, the jake turned at the last second on one shot or he may have met his end! The "Kia curse" continued!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
The action slowed down again for a little while and Kia decided it was time for a turkey nap!
The action slowed down again for a little while and Kia decided it was time for a turkey nap!
The action wasn't happening and Chris decide we need to make a last minute run at a spot that could produce. It turned out to be the best decision of the trip!
The action wasn't happening and Chris decide we need to make a last minute run at a spot that could produce. It turned out to be the best decision of the trip!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
We instantly had a hot bird inbound. This monster tom came in hot! Joe and I are probably still shaking! :) Unfortunately Kia missed the shot by the closest amount the entire trip and he moved off!
We instantly had a hot bird inbound. This monster tom came in hot! Joe and I are probably still shaking! :) Unfortunately Kia missed the shot by the closest amount the entire trip and he moved off!
We knew it was our last chance of the trip. As time came to a close Kia went sneaky indian to make something happen while we picked up the blind and decoys. :) It was to no avail.
We knew it was our last chance of the trip. As time came to a close Kia went sneaky indian to make something happen while we picked up the blind and decoys. :) It was to no avail.
There would be no Cali turkey for Kia. She felt like she let us down with her shooting and felt bad . A quick hug and a few words though and that smile was back! You cannot keep her down long!
There would be no Cali turkey for Kia. She felt like she let us down with her shooting and felt bad . A quick hug and a few words though and that smile was back! You cannot keep her down long!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
Kia handing over her most prized possession :) Her and Gia were inseparable from the get go. Gia is the sweetest little girl and I couldn't imagine a better person for Kia to pass it on to!
Kia handing over her most prized possession :) Her and Gia were inseparable from the get go. Gia is the sweetest little girl and I couldn't imagine a better person for Kia to pass it on to!
I'd say the future of hunting looks pretty dang bright if this is what we have to look forward to!
I'd say the future of hunting looks pretty dang bright if this is what we have to look forward to!
Heading into the airport on the way home. Her sweatshirts reads: "Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement". I though it was very fitting. This isn't the end..she will succeed!
Heading into the airport on the way home. Her sweatshirts reads: "Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement". I though it was very fitting. This isn't the end..she will succeed!
The hunting part of this trip was over. Kia had the start of some tears in her eyes on the way back from that last sneaky indian run that she didn't want Chris and Joe to see. This old dad did as well. I wish I could express in words how much this hunt meant to her and how bad she wanted to get that first turkey. I think in her mind it was like one of us drawing a once in a lifetime sheep hunt and blowing multiple shots and coming home empty handed. This where Joe and Chris were simply amazing with Kia and I can't thank them enough. We had some ice cream and plenty of words of encouragement and advice were shared and I think Kia learned some extremely valuable advice from two of the best bowhunters around. Her big old smile and happy demeanor came right back! The best part of the entire hunt had yet to come! I wish Joe could have been there to share in this part! Kia had had the idea of giving her bow to Gia before we even left for California, not only as a thank you for everything they've done for her but as her way of "Passing it on". Afterall, that is the title of this thread......
From: trkyslr
21-Mar-17
Awesome posts Justin... this is a great thread and one I'll always remember as a classic!!! can't wait to get some texts from you in a few weeks on Kias hunts back at home.
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
I can't wait to send them Chris! We're going to start dialing in her new rig right away tonight. She should be ready!
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
A few more random pics. Kia got introduced to the intricacies of In-N-Out burger! We do not have any franchises in this area so it was a must do for a cheeseburger lover like Kia!
A few more random pics. Kia got introduced to the intricacies of In-N-Out burger! We do not have any franchises in this area so it was a must do for a cheeseburger lover like Kia!
Kia enjoying the California scenery! Amazing to see how high the water was in some of these streams from the rain and flooding in NorCal this winter.
Kia enjoying the California scenery! Amazing to see how high the water was in some of these streams from the rain and flooding in NorCal this winter.
I had one tuckered out little girl on the flights home yesterday. She slept for 3 hours on the two flights easily. She was full spirit when she got home though! :)
I had one tuckered out little girl on the flights home yesterday. She slept for 3 hours on the two flights easily. She was full spirit when she got home though! :)
My last pic, Kia and Joe palling around while we waited for Chris to come around and pick us up. Half Pint I looking at me like "what in the hell are you doing over there?" Ha!
My last pic, Kia and Joe palling around while we waited for Chris to come around and pick us up. Half Pint I looking at me like "what in the hell are you doing over there?" Ha!
From: Mark Watkins
21-Mar-17
Justin, you are great Dad and mentor for Kia!
Chris and Joe, way to create this whole concept..."good people helping good people get introduced to hunting!"
Kia, Keep your head high...you are what is called a winner and will get it done (just like your sweatshirts says!) Nice job handing off your bow to Gia....very nice!!!
Mark
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
Thanks Mark and Scott and everyone for your comments. Having a daughter like Kia makes being a dad pretty easy! I give the credit to her mother!
From: EmbryOklahoma
21-Mar-17
Now I'm hungry and mad. Thanks, Kia!
From: joehunter8301
21-Mar-17
So many great things about this thread. Brings tears of joy reading this and reliving it knowing we made a difference in a couple people's lives. Such a great memory. Thanks Justin and Kia for that :)
From: Brotsky
21-Mar-17
Joe, you are welcome and you guys definitely made a difference for us! You and Chris are the ones that make this happen, along with all the generous Bowsiter's who pitch in to make it a little easier financially. You did the same for Scott and Ryan last year and I know they feel the same way Kia and I do. We're all so grateful for what you guys have given our kids. I really hope you guys continue to do the passing it on/future of hunting thing next year so some other lucky young bowhunter can have the same experience. You guys seem to have a knack for picking outstanding kids that deserve and appreciate what an awesome experience it is!
From: DWarcher
21-Mar-17
Great job with the kids as usual. Thank you for all you guys do!
From: Beav
23-Mar-17
What a great trip! So cool of you guys to do this. Thanks for the effort and thanks for sharing this!
From: writer
24-Mar-17
Great reads and pics. So miss those trips working on grand slams when my kids were about that age. Some of our best days. Our daughter wants turkey feathers incorporated into her wedding in Yosemite in September.
From: midwest
29-Apr-17
I missed this the first time around. Thanks for the link, Justin....great stuff!
Hang in there, Kia...it will happen!
