Note #7

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2000. Surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation continued throughout the next nine months, all conducted in a community located a 3-hour drive from our hometown. During the weeks I received daily radiation therapy, my daughter and I lived with family members and drove back home on the weekends. Seeing my husband and son always lifted my spirits, but one specific weekend holds the top spot in my memories.

A moose was observed in our county during the month of July. "Moose on the Loose" shirts were printed and sold in a downtown store, owned and operated by my friend and neighbor, Jeri. Attempts to locate and photograph the moose were rampant throughout the area. We did not want to be left out of the "hunting experience," and spent one Friday evening searching for this moose. Jeri, my mom, my daughter, and I drove for hours throughout the county on gravel roads, through fields, and even across a bridge that unbeknownst to us was closed because of safety factors! We never found him...but we've also never given up hope.

Thus, a moose hunting expedition has continued for over 14-and-one-half years!

Dear Jeri,

Just a quick note to let you know how much the moose hunting that began in July 2001 has added to my life. When you and I began this venture, little did we realize that we'd continue to search for moose in stores, at craft fairs, on towels and kitchen items, at Christmas, and everywhere else moose are found. It's so much fun trying to find a "new moose item," and I continue to get excited when I spot the animal while on vacation. Let's keep looking and perhaps we'll finally see a moose in our county!

Thanks for being such a great friend and neighbor. Happy Hunting!
Jill