Learning to belong to a family of hunters.

I grew up knowing that the only meat you eat is the one you buy from the store. It all change once I got married. I learn how to cook it but still having a hard time eating it.
Everyone tells me it taste just like chicken but when I try it, "chicken" is the last thing in my mind and it sure is the last taste I can think of.

Growing up with a bunch of my male cousins that would take me fishing, I can still remember the joy of actually hooking a fish and how proud I am to have caught one. I didn't mind gutting, cleaning and cooking it. But when it comes to eating it, I just can't seem to chew and swallow it.

I knew my hubby was raised a hunter before we even got married. Instead of going to a movie or eating in fancy restaurants, we instead went fishing and walked in the woods looking for deer tracks. I didn't mind doing it at all. I was more comfortable doing it than dressing up to go out and party. I enjoyed every minute of it, outdoor and nature.

One weekend, when we were stilld dating, I was invited to spend the weekend with him and his family. Saturday morning, I was surprised by a wonderful country breakfast. Offcourse cooked by him. Boy was I hungry. What was on the menu, you asked: orange juice, milk, eggs, toast and some really mouth-watering sausages. I was eating away and he was also enjoying watching me eat. I was really digging the sausage. I love sausages. I even made a comment that those were the best sausages I have ever eaten. He responded by just giving me a big smile. I even asked for more.

Then I pop the question, "Where did you buys those? I need to take some home." Then I took a sip of my fresh juice. He just looked at me and said " ....well it started at Georgia." He need not say more. The juice started going up my nasal passages but I was able to save my self from embarassment. I took a big gulp and looked at him. He started laughing for he knew I am not big on eating game. I told him I didn't want anymore. I ate six pieces of it before I knew what it was but I can't seem to take another bite of it although I still was not full.

Seven years and two boys later I still can't get myself to eat venizon. Both our boys, six and two and a half years of age, are growing up hunters. Our eldest shot his first buck last fall. I was one proud mommy. Our youngest can't wait to be out there in a stand with daddy and big brother. Maybe a couple more years.

I helped cut the meat and clean it and cook it. I just can't seem to eat it.

I'm still learning. Day by day. I am slowly getting use to it. Coz I am here for the long haul.

He was so proud when I actually has a bite of my venizon chili. It was good but I just can't seem to swallow the next bite.

For you out there whose life is also surrounded by hunting life. Feel free to share you stories and recipe. I need to start trying recipe coz you'll never know which game recipe will end up making me finally eat it.