The Adolphsons: The Hunting Holiday

Up North . . . or "Up Nort" as people think we northerners say ( . . . and I guess some of us do), hunting is not just a hobby, but more of a holiday. Since the day I met Carl, the first two weeks in November have been very sacred. It is a time where he bonds with his dad, brothers, cousins, and uncles. They dress in Blaze Orange from head to toe and all adorn faces full of scruff (because hunters need to be hairy . . .).

These guys might mean business up in the stands and out in the woods, but they sure do know how to have fun after the hunt is over! Every year, the hunters and their families get together out at the farm to celebrate a successful hunt. It doesn't matter who shot the most deer or the biggest buck, the most important man at the party is Grandpa Kuznia. He loves watching all these guys come out and hunt his land. They love him for his spirit, humor and charisma. The hunters have called themselves "Grandpa's Gang" for many years now, and that's just what they are :)

The party is stocked with freshly cooked venison which is breaded and fried with onions. Along with the fresh meat is an array of different sides, such as "hot dishes", backed beans, taco salad, Grandpa's home-made dumplings, cheesy hash browns, and of course . . . a lot of whiskey.

The best part of the party is when Grandpa Kuznia takes out his harmonica and plays for us. While he plays, everyone listens in astonishment and sometimes claps along with the beat. When he finishes, there is a roaring cheer along with a few praises yelled out in Grandpa Kuznia's native Polish language. Family parties like these are not something people in my generation come across easily. I am so glad to be apart of it.

Apart from all the hunting hoopla, I was also able to take some photos of Carl's sister Dana and her boyfriend, Ryan. I had a blast running around town with these two. We had a lot of good laughs, and ended up with quite a few good photos!