Granny and I quit exchanging gifts for each other years ago. That’s because if we can afford something we want – we buy it. Why wait till December 25th? This practice certainly eliminates accumulation of unnecessary and unwanted stuff.
When I saw a present under our fake tree with my name on it I was surprised, and reluctant to open it, especially because I could tell it was something to hang on the wall. What was in there? What was I going to do with it?
It turns out that its one of the neatest gifts I’ve ever got. On Day 1 of the Jackson Hole One Fly Contest last September I competed against long time customer/friend, Ray Thurston. We were guided by my friend Jean Bruun and Ray and I had a One Fly day to remember in which we each racked up enough points to make the podium. One of my fish was a cutthroat that won me the big fish trophy for Day 1. Jean clicked off a snap shot in the heat of the moment and Ray had a painting done of me and the fish. The painting is done by Tammy Callens and is truly fantastic. What a great memory!
The best gifts are the ones you never new you wanted until you get them.