I grew up in Western New York. While there are many things I dislike about the state of New York (and since this is not a political forum I will zip my pie hole on that topic) it offers access to some of the best geography in the country. The climate of the area produces great swings in the weather and fosters the growth and life cycles of a variety of flora and fauna.
This is not to say WNY holds exclusive claim on these traits, but only to indicate that my development as an outdoorsman spans across varying environments. This facilitates my outdoor spirit.
I have been blessed to enjoy these variations throughout my life. Participation in outdoor activities including hiking, gardening, beekeeping, marksmanship, archery, hunting, fishing, trapping, cutting firewood and camping – to name a few – have kept me outside.
I attempt to remain out of doors as often as possible while doing my best to persuade my family to join me. I will continue to do so as long as my spirt permits.
As I look back on the experiences I’ve enjoyed, I’m continually building new ones with family and friends. In a world inundated with technology that makes it too easy to remain stagnant, sometimes it can be a struggle balancing the two opposites.
This is a collection of moments spanning from when it was easy for me, to the struggles of today and how my outdoor spirit manages to intertwine with family, friends and a career.
Enjoy!
-Chris