Chapter 1: The Joy of Hunting with Grandpa

Reflecting on the adventures I shared with my grandfather brings a smile to my face. Before diving into the poem that captures our time together, I feel it's essential to clarify that while my childhood had its complexities, I always viewed myself as a survivor rather than a victim. My grandparents showered me with love and never laid down strict rules. They were simply the epitome of caring guardians.

Here is a poem dedicated to my beloved Grandpa, who was both a preacher and a farmer in rural Northeast Louisiana. Let's take a moment to enjoy it:

Growing up, I was the youngest of my grandfather’s grandchildren. Those summer visits were some of the most cherished moments of my life. Mom would put me on a Greyhound bus, sitting just behind the driver. She would always ask him to keep an eye on me, and he'd kindly agree, saying, "It'll be my pleasure."

Upon my arrival, Grandpa greeted me with a promise of a special adventure. We would climb into his trusty old red truck and head straight to the creek. "Hop out, my shadow," he would say. "Let’s go fishing!" I would daydream about catching the biggest fish, but I was in for a surprise.

"Grandpa! Grandpa! I caught a big one!" I exclaimed, excitedly using his fishing pole. "No, my shadow, you caught my pants!" Grandpa's humor always kept the mood light as he pulled out his knife to free the hook tangled in his pants. I was astounded by how quickly he moved; I didn't think a Baptist preacher could dance like that!

"Let’s head home, Son. We’ll plan a hunting trip for you," he said, guiding me toward the next step in becoming a man.

The next morning, the roosters crowed loudly at the crack of dawn. We set off to load up the truck, but Grandpa had other plans. "No truck today, Son. We’re taking 'Ole Blue,'" he announced, referring to his old Rambler Nash. I never quite understood his love for hunting in that vehicle, especially considering how cramped it could be.

I squeezed into the trunk with the dogs, struggling to breathe due to the unpleasant odor. Grandpa affectionately called the trunk the "Turtle Shell," though I considered it a potential death trap. I managed to pop the trunk lid open using a rusty screwdriver, only to have it hit me on the head when we hit a pothole.

Our adventure began when we finally arrived at our hunting spot. I told Grandpa, "I’m not riding in that turtle shell again!" He handed me the dogs, and I soon found myself tangled as they dashed around trees. This was my first experience with squirrel hunting, and it was clear I had no idea what I was doing.

"Grandpa, you’ve taught me so much, including how to pray," I said. "Dear Lord in Heaven, please keep me safe today."

Eventually, we returned safely to Grandpa's home, where I reveled in the freedom of riding my minibike across the expansive land. Although my hunting trips with Grandpa came to a close, I later learned to hunt in college with my brother and friends.

My father, while not in perfect health, was a wonderful dad. What mattered most to me was the time we spent together, watching football and sharing laughs.

Rest in peace, Dad; you truly deserved your place in heaven.

From the desk of Wire-Editor Newman.

P.S. This reflection has inspired me to write a poem about my dad and his dedication to journalism, emulating the ideal father portrayed in 1960s sitcoms like "My Three Sons" or "Father Knows Best." He made games for my elementary school and crafted tall candles for our porch during Christmas. He was not just a dad but also my Cub Scout leader, and I fondly remember driving around town in his 1957 Chevrolet. What a car, and what a man!

Thank you for joining me in this reminiscence. What is your favorite memory with a family member?

Chapter 2: The Squirrel Hunting Adventure

In this chapter, we delve into the thrilling world of squirrel hunting alongside my grandpa.

This video showcases the nostalgic experience of squirrel hunting, featuring the charm of using my grandpa's vintage shotgun.

As we continue, we’ll also explore the heartfelt moments captured in another video that highlights a special hunting trip.

This video captures a memorable outing with my grandpa, illustrating the bond we shared during our adventures.