Ole Earl's New Home

Thought you might be interested in Ole Earl's new place of residence.

It was difficult for Ray to load Earl and the deer heads into the truck bed for the journey. It probably took him longer to load them, than it did to hunt them. The animals eyed us fearfully as they were loaded. Perhaps they thought they were being taken to the dump to be abandoned. Sure they'll be delighted and relieved when they arrive at their new destination.

Ray acted as if he were parting with old friends and in a way he was. He teared up a few times as he gently placed them onto the truck. When he was finished, I left them alone so he could say his goodbyes.

It was sad to see Ole Earl start his journey to a new home, but I'm sure he'll be happier hanging on someone's wall than on the floor of the garage staring at the ceiling. Just didn't seem proper for him to be there. No this noble steed deserved a place of dignity, and he will have his place of honor--adorning the wall of a new hunting lodge that a friend is opening in central Texas. And as Earl has done for over 10 years, he will keep watch over the herd of deer heads that rested above our fireplace.

I wasn't certain Ray would be able to hand them over when he arrived there. And he couldn't hand them over to just anyone, but he knew Kenny understood about Ole Earl and the deers, and that he would treat them with the dignity they deserve.

Ray retained visitation rights, and if we ever again have a place to put Ole Earl and his friends, he will retain full custody. Until then, I'm sure we'll make a trek or two to central Texas lodge to pay our respects. And to our friends, if you're ever down that way, I'm sure Ole Earl will be glad to see you too.