Heavy rain greeted the opening day of dove season at Owens Crossroads, but Ashton-Brett (Brett) Anderson wasn't about to let a little mud slow her down. She shares her story of hunting with a field full of strangers and how the timeless wisdom from her grandfather armed her with confidence. From Jane Austen fan to avid hunter, read how Brett and her closest friend, Emily, turn every outdoor adventure—with their trusty Boykin Spaniel, Nacho—into a memorable day of laughter and success.

In honor of dove season arriving in North Alabama, Loretta Gillespie, our resident Master Gardener, shares a nostalgic look back at a time when the first day of hunting season felt like an official holiday. This isn't just a story about the hunt; it's a sensory journey into the past, filled with the scent of WD-40 and frying birds, the crisp feel of autumn air, and the deep-rooted rituals that defined a family. From meticulously cleaned shotguns to the bond between a boy and his loyal Irish Setter, Loretta paints a vivid picture of a day steeped in pride and the simple joy of tradition.