Isabella, known to her family and friends as Bella, was just 13 when she first showed an interest in hunting. Kenny, always eager to pass on his knowledge, was more than happy to teach her. Her very first deer was a young button buck, a milestone that sparked a passion she would carry with her.
In 2024, Bella received a brand-new Wicked Ridge crossbow as an early Christmas present. She could hardly wait to try it out, and this time, she was ready for her first solo hunt. Determined and prepared, she set up a blind and cameras in her backyard, carefully spreading corn to draw in deer.
The cameras showed a buck visiting, but only at night. Bella waited patiently, day after day, hoping for her chance. One afternoon, after coming home from school, she spotted him in the backyard feeding on the corn. Heart racing, she grabbed her bow, but in her excitement, she spooked him and he bolted.
Not discouraged, Bella slipped into her blind and waited. Her patience paid off. Before long, the buck returned. She steadied herself, lined up her scope, and calmly pulled the trigger. The shot was perfect. As bucks do, he ran, and Bella’s adrenaline surged. The excitement was almost overwhelming, but she remembered her training: stay calm, wait, and give the animal time.
After about half an hour, Bella began tracking. Her careful search led her to a neighbor’s field, only about 100 yards away. There he was, a beautiful 10-point buck. Bella dressed him herself and dragged him home, filled with pride and gratitude.
This hunt was more than just a harvest. It was a moment of accomplishment, responsibility, and respect. Bella was proud of her success, thankful to Kenny for his guidance, and deeply respectful of the animal that provided for her.
Without the mentorship and support of Teaching Our Traditions (TOT), Bella may never have experienced such a powerful sense of achievement. Her first solo hunt was not just about the deer; it was about patience, discipline, and carrying forward traditions that connect people to the land and to each other.