Giving Thanks. How Shooting Sports Changed My Life

Before being introduced to the shooting sports I never knew how much of an impact it could make. It wasn’t until 2009 at the age of 19 that I was introduced to shooting firearms and archery. I quickly realized how much joy and satisfaction shooting and becoming successful at it brought me. 

From Shooting to a Hunting Way of Life

Since being introduced to shooting it has become a huge part of my life. Once I started shooting it evolved to an interest in hunting. Hunting has evolved from a hobby to a way of life for me.  Hunting and the shooting sports also gave me and my now husband a mutual interest. We now spend many days a year outdoors hunting and prepping for hunting season. Hunting has become a huge part of my life and it brings me so much joy that I had no idea it could. It has made such a huge impact on my life that I can’t imagine it not being part of my everyday life.

Travel, Adventure and Time in the Outdoors

Shooting and hunting has given me so many opportunities to travel and see the country and even the world while enjoying the outdoors, spending time with people that are important to me, as well as observing nature and animals in their natural habitat. Hunting has taken me to so many places that I would never have gone to or been able to see had I not gotten involved with shooting. Hunting and shooting is not just about the kill, it is about the experience and adventure. Something I always tell people who have never experienced hunting is, “there is nothing like the woods waking up around you as you sit in nature waiting for daybreak.” It can make you step back and think about all the things you are grateful for in your life. 

Filling the Freezer and Providing for My Family

Hunting and shooting sports is also a means to provide for my family. It is amazing to be able to do something that you love as well as being able to fill the freezer for the year. Being able to harvest and process my own food is such a blessing knowing where it came from and how it was processed.

Hunting and Conservation

Not only that, hunting is about conservation and preserving habitat and keeping animal numbers at an appropriate level. It is such a great feeling to know that the money I spend goes to the time and research for population management. Also, knowing that when I harvest an animal I am directly doing my part to aid in conservation. 

A Life I’m Grateful for Every Day

Not only has shooting sports changed my life but it has given me the life that I am grateful for everyday. I can’t even envision my life not being involved with hunting and shooting sports. On to the next adventure, wherever that may take me.