Thank you OJ! I've had this little story on my mind for a few weeks and figured it would be a fun one to post as the new year gets started. I have enjoyed so many stories of others on the site sharing their own fishing experiences with youngsters!

We also have 2 grand boys that live near Chicago, so we do not see them as often as the girls. Nevertheless, we have definitely been able to spend some time with them on the water. The attached photo has been posted from my personal archives before, but since it fits the story I'm adding it again. Those boys are now approaching 3 and 5 years old, and they are both going to be a blast to fish with...I can just feel it!

I remember from the days of my youth that whenever a "grown up" paid any attention to us, it was a really big deal. We can never underestimate how much it means to a child to engage in their lives like we all do, and I see that "sentiment" echoed all over the Stage.

Over the recent Christmas Holidays, and many days elsewise, I am privileged to assist my wife in providing daycare and overnight stays for 2 of our local grand daughters. The youngest, at just over one year old now, is rapidly learning to speak and I enjoy giving her "walking tours" to view our fishing related home decor.

About 20 years ago, having moved farther "up" into Northern Michigan, my wife said "I've had enough of pastel and roses for house accents. Why don't you take over with decorating and make our home feel like a rustic lodge". You can imagine my surprise and giddy delight when given the nod to set out on that task. In short order, I think I had things whipped into shape fairly well....and much to her grinning approval!

So, as I walk from object to artwork with the youngest grand daughter, I gently point at the feature and whisper "fish" to her. She replies back with a gleam in her eyes, a broad smile and the return utterance of "ish". It melts my heart! Most recently she has begun to also get the "F", so it has become "fish".

Between Maeve and her 4 year old sister, we spend many an hour playing make believe fishing games using the full extent of our imaginations. There are adventures that involve canoes, kayaks, small craft and larger charter boats...all in the form of toys that we still have on hand from having raised our own family.

To all those among us that are blessed to spend time with young children, I hope that you are able to glean the pinnacle of joy and memories as they mature and advance to the point where they can enjoy the fishing experience in a real world environment!

Have an awesome 2023 in all that you do and apply yourself to accomplish!