I grew up outside of DeKalb Junction on a small dairy farm. Hunted, fished, and trapped on our farm (185 acres) and all the surrounding farms. That was in a day when a farm kid could run all over the neighbors farms with a fishing pole, a 22, or a packbasket of traps without anyone raising an eyebrow. Some of my fondest memories are of those days.
I plan to be back there next year for 7-10 days over the Thanksgiving holiday. My dad still lives in St. Lawrence County on the northern edge of the Adirondacks. He sees deer frequently in his corner of the world and many of the neighboring farms are host to several deer. A few bears in the area as well. It will be an opportunity to spend some time with my dad and get a little hunting in also. I know the regular gun season is on at the time but plan to take a front stuffer with me. I might just send a rifle ahead and leave it year round with Dad. I'd have it for any future trips.
The comment I made about the North Country and Upstate New York comes from a lifetime of explaining to folks the difference between New York City and the rest of the state. When they find out I didn't grow up in the city they automatically assume that I'm from upstate New York. I always tell them that upstate is southern New York and the North Coutry is that beautiful area north of the Adirondacks. Upstate New York is too generic a term to describe the area of New York outside the city. In reality the state is very diverse with many wonderful areas. Its kind of like describing the area outside of Anchorage as upstate Alaska.
I am rambling and off subject now. I am looking forward to returning to my stomping grounds to prowl the woods of my youth with a fine flintlock.
Mart