Joe's Ponders were awakened early this morning by gunshots from the north end of the pond.  'Tis the season - again.  This weekend is a special two-day "Youth Waterfowl hunting season".  The adult water-foul hunting season begins in October.  

If you've enjoyed watching the ducks (and geese) on the pond during the summer, I'm sure being awakened by gunshots and knowing some of those lovely creatures are being killed, may bring a sense of rage within some people.  I know the feeling.  It's always been difficult for me to accept, even though I know it's all part of managing the wildlife population to keep it healthy.  Still . . .

And then there's the close proximity to homes.  Even shooting in the air - that lead shot has to come down somewhere.  There are regulations, but the water is public, and hunting is legal.  We are fortunate that not too many hunters come to Joe's Pond.  Perhaps they realize finding a clear shot with so many homes along every shoreline and in wetland areas makes hunting here less than ideal, so they seek out less populated ponds and lakes.  
 
Today is again beautiful.  Already it's too hot for me in the sun, but in the shade of our young maple trees, it's quite nice on our deck in the early morning.  This is the  summer we never had, so enjoy.  Don't forget the chicken and biscuit supper at North Danville Baptist Church tonight.  If you haven't already made plans, it's not too late.  It's always a great meal, and this will be a good night to not have to cook!