Sara Outdoors

Author: Sara Keelan

  • Post bow hunting relaxation.

    Post bow hunting relaxation.

    After an early morning bow hunting in the woods, there’s nothing better than slipping into something comfy and easing into the rest of the day.

    back home from bow hunting

    I made myself a fresh yogurt smoothie, found a sunny spot by the window, and cracked open a good book I’ve been meaning to get to.

    Relaxing after the hunt

    Somewhere between a few chapters and a long stretch of quiet, I started building out my hunting wishlist on Amazon—new trail cam, upgraded broadheads, maybe even a pair of boots I definitely don’t need but absolutely want.

    It’s the perfect kind of slow, cozy reset after the rush of a November hunt.

    winter PJs
    Getting into the holiday shopping sorta mood.

    Here’s a simple, delicious smoothie recipe that includes both coffee and kefir — creamy, energizing, and great after a long morning outdoors:

    Coffee-Kefir Energizing Smoothie

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup chilled brewed coffee (or cold brew)
    • 1 cup plain or vanilla kefir
    • 1 frozen banana
    • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
    • 1–2 tablespoons nut butter (almond, peanut, or sunflower)
    • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
    • A handful of ice cubes
    • Optional add-ins: 1 scoop protein powder, cocoa powder, or collagen

    Instructions:

    1. Add the coffee, kefir, and frozen banana to a blender.
    2. Toss in the nut butter, cinnamon, sweetener (if using), and ice cubes.
    3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
    4. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness to your liking.
    5. Pour into a chilled glass and enjoy a tangy, lightly caffeinated pick-me-up.

    It’s probiotic-rich, energizing, and perfect for a post-hunt recharge.

    woman with coffee smoothie


    Finding the Perfect Forest for Deer Hunting

    deer walking in a forest
    Photo by Chris F on Pexels.com

    The perfect Southern forest for bow hunting deer in the fall feels like stepping into a quiet, living cathedral. Dawn settles over a mix of oak, hickory, and pine, their leaves shifting from deep green to warm shades of gold, rust, and burnt orange. The air is cool but not harsh—just enough to make each breath feel crisp and clean.

    A good Southern bow-hunting forest has layers, each one inviting deer movement.

    You’ll find:

    Mature Hardwoods

    Tall white oaks and red oaks dropping acorns that deer can’t resist. The ground beneath them is scattered with cracked shells and fresh tracks.

    Pine Ridges

    Dry, soft pine needles create quiet walking paths and make perfect bedding areas along the higher ground.

    Thick Edges & Transition Zones

    Where hardwood stands meet young cutovers or brushy thickets—prime travel corridors where bucks feel safe slipping between cover and food.

    A Nearby Water Source

    A slow-moving creek, swamp edge, or small pond draws consistent deer traffic, especially during warm Southern autumn days.

    The Sounds of Fall

    Squirrels rustling leaves, the distant call of a crow, and the faint crunch of hoofsteps on dry foliage… all surrounded by the earthy scent of damp soil and decaying leaves.

    Bow-Hunter Friendly Features

    • Natural funnels formed by terrain
    • A steady wind pattern for reliable stand placement
    • Plenty of large trees for hanging a stand or saddle
    • Open shooting lanes without losing the forest’s natural cover

    In the Southern fall, the forest is alive but unhurried—a place where the whitetail rut simmers, the mornings glow amber, and the woods feel made for quiet patience. It’s the kind of forest where a bow hunter can settle in, breathe easy, and become part of the landscape.

  • November Bow Hunting: Quiet Morning in the Autumn Woods

    November Bow Hunting: Quiet Morning in the Autumn Woods

    One Woman’s Bow-Hunting Story in the Autumn Woods

    A crisp November sun filtered through the last stubborn leaves as she settled into the blind, breath floating in faint white wisps. The world around her felt hushed, as if the woods themselves were holding their breath. She drew her camouflage jacket a little closer—not because she was cold, but because she loved the anticipation that came with these quiet mornings.

    selfie: in deer blind with bow

    She’d been bow hunting since she was a teenager, taught by her grandfather, who always said that November was the month when the forest revealed its true character. Today felt like one of those days he used to describe: calm, golden, expectant.

    She checked her bow, feeling the familiar weight in her hands. Everything about this ritual grounded her—the steadying of her heartbeat, the rustle of leaves in the distance, the soft hum of morning wildlife waking up. There was no rush here (or after as she relaxes).

    Bow hunting wasn’t about speed; it was about patience, respect, and reading the land.

    buck on grassland
    Elk buck are off limits where I am. Photo by Isaac Mitchell on Pexels.com

    A faint crackle of movement caught her attention to the left. She froze, eyes scanning the tree line. A young buck stepped into view, cautious but unaware of her presence. For a moment, she simply watched it—admiring the way it moved through the brush with quiet confidence.

    She inhaled slowly, letting instinct take over. Whether she released the arrow or not wasn’t the point. For her, the heart of hunting was being part of something bigger than herself, something ancient and honest. She felt connected to the land, to her grandfather’s teachings, and to the stillness that made her feel more awake than any coffee ever could.

    woman with bow in tight jeans

    The buck paused, ears flicking at some distant sound, then disappeared back into the trees as quietly as it had come. She lowered her bow and smiled to herself. There was still plenty of day left, and November always had a way of surprising her.

    Getting ready the night before the hunt
    Getting ready the night before the hunt

    So she waited, surrounded by the soft glow of autumn, content with the hunt—whether or not it brought anything home.

  • More Public Debate, Less Violence.

    More Public Debate, Less Violence.

    In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, I’m more passionate than ever to do more public discourse, more public debating, more expressing opinions – equally paired with more listening.

    Less fighting.

    Words, not weapons.

    Van Jones received a direct message from Charlie Kirk the day before his untimely death on 9/10/2025. He asked Jones to debate, “disagree aggreably”.

    “Hey Van, I mean it, I’d love to have you on my show to have a respectful conversation about crime and race. I would be a gentleman as I know you would be as well. We can disagree about the issues agreeably.”

    And that’s the invitation we must not ignore. Charlie Kirk’s final outreach to Van Jones wasn’t just a gesture—it was a challenge to all of us. To disagree without dehumanizing.

    To confront ideas, not individuals. In a time when political violence has pierced the public square, we owe it to each other to rebuild that square with dialogue, not division.

    Whether you admired Kirk or opposed his views, the principle he invoked—“disagree agreeably”—is one we can all rally behind. Let’s honor that by showing up, speaking out, and listening harder. The future of civic life depends on it.

    We can disagree about the issues agreeably.

    – Charlie Kirk, 9/9/2025
    Daily writing prompt
    What could you do more of?
    View all responses

    Leave a Comment Below.

  • Cabin Getaway: Shooting, Stargazing & Friendship

    Cabin Getaway: Shooting, Stargazing & Friendship

    The old logging road was barely more than two ruts in the dirt, swallowed by pine needles and shadow. But as we rounded the final bend, the cabin appeared, nestled perfectly between towering pines, smoke gently curling from its stone chimney. “Home for the weekend,” I grinned at Chloe, my best friend since kindergarten, who was already rummaging for the cooler.

    Cabin in the woods

    This wasn’t just any cabin; it was the cabin. Rustic, remote, and utterly devoid of Wi-Fi—exactly what we needed. A well-worn fire pit sat squarely in front, framed by two sturdy Adirondack chairs, practically begging for a blaze.

    As the sun began to dip, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and purple, we got the fire going. The scent of pine and woodsmoke filled the air, mingling with the earthy smell of the forest.

    We uncorked a bottle of a rich, jammy Zinfandel, poured generous glasses, and settled into the chairs. The conversation flowed effortlessly, punctuated by the crackle of the fire and the distant hoot of an owl.

    Later, as darkness truly fell, the stars put on a show I rarely get to see back home. Each one was a pinprick of pure light against the inky black, and we lay back, pointing out constellations and sharing quiet dreams.

    two brown ceramic mugs - Photo by Elina Sazonova on Pexels.com

    The next morning, the sun barely filtered through the dense tree canopy when I felt the pull of the day. A rich, dark roast coffee brewed slowly on the cabin’s old stove, its aroma weaving through the small space. With a steaming mug in hand, and a fresh copy of a fantasy novel — I think it was the latest from Sarah J. Maas — I curled up on the porch. Hours melted away in the pages, interrupted only by the rustle of leaves or the occasional chirp of a bird.

    After a hearty lunch of grilled cheese and tomato soup, it was time for a different kind of relaxation. I pulled out my trusty Walther P22. We found an old log, set up a few empty cans, and took turns aiming downrange.

    The crisp ping! as a can spun off the log was incredibly satisfying. It’s a different kind of focus than target shooting, more about the immediate gratification of a well-placed shot. Chloe, who usually sticks to larger calibers, even enjoyed the snappy recoil of the P22. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about the rhythm of loading, aiming, and firing in the quiet of the woods.

    beige wood putted on fire - Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    As dusk approached, we gathered more firewood, knowing another evening of stars, stories, and the comforting warmth of the fire awaited. This cabin, with its simple rhythms and the company of a true friend, was more than just a getaway. It was a reset, a reminder that the best adventures often happen when you unplug, step outside, and let the wild take over.

    While we cook dinner and sip smooth bourbon, my all-time favorite cooking album would play – The Lumineers’ Cleopatra. The album’s folksy, narrative style perfectly complements the quiet, introspective vibe of a weekend getaway. It’s a great blend of storytelling and easy listening, perfect for conversation. An equally good choice would be Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours for a timeless, soulful groove.

    Daily writing prompt
    What’s your all-time favorite album?
    View all responses
  • Hiking Erie, PA (Fall Favorites)

    Hiking Erie, PA (Fall Favorites)

    The air has a certain kind of crispness that signals a shift. It’s that sweet spot in early fall in Erie, Pennsylvania, when the humidity has finally broken, the sun feels a little gentler, and a vibrant gold begins to peek through the last of summer’s green. For me, it’s the perfect call to hit the trails and soak up the season before it’s gone.

    hiking wintergreen gorge Penn.
    drone shot in wintergreen gorge

    This year, I decided to check out a few of Erie’s top spots for a fall hiking getaway. Each one offered a completely different vibe, and I loved them all.

    My 4 Best Hikes in Erie PA

    Presque Isle State Park

    stream at Presque Isle State Park

    My first stop was Presque Isle. The park’s Multi-Purpose Trail is a 13.3-mile paved loop that circles the entire peninsula, and it’s perfect for a relaxed hike.

    With the lake breeze keeping things cool, I took my time, enjoying the views of the water and the vibrant fall colors along the way. For a quieter experience, I recommend the Dead Pond Trail or the Long Pond Trail—they’re wooded, peaceful, and absolutely perfect for leaf-peeping.

    Asbury Woods

    Next, I headed to Asbury Woods, a beautiful nature preserve. I walked the Greenway Trail, a 2.2-mile moderate path that winds through forests and wetlands. The tree canopy was a spectacular show of color, and the well-maintained trails made it easy to lose myself in the peaceful, immersive walk. It was a great way to escape for a while and just enjoy the quiet beauty of nature.

    Erie Bluffs State Park

    For something a little more rugged, Erie Bluffs State Park was incredible. With its 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie, the views are absolutely breathtaking. I pieced together a few of the park’s shorter trails, creating my own custom loop. It felt a little more wild and secluded, and every turn offered a new panoramic view. This place is an absolute must-visit if you want dramatic scenery and a good workout.

    Wintergreen Gorge

    Hiking Erie PA - Wintergreen Gorge

    My final stop was Wintergreen Gorge, a bit of a hidden gem. The Gorge Trail, while a little more challenging with its rocky terrain, was completely worth it. The sound of running water from the waterfalls, the towering cliffs, and the dense foliage made me feel like I had stumbled into another world. The scenery here is simply stunning, and it’s a perfect spot for any adventurer looking for a reward.

    If you’re looking for a fall getaway that combines lake views, crisp air, and some of the best foliage around, Erie, PA, is the place to be.

  • No Amount of Evidence will Ever Persuade an Idiot.

    No Amount of Evidence will Ever Persuade an Idiot.

    “No amount of evidence will ever persuade an idiot.” -Mark Twain

    Charlie Kirk debates the points of abortion and trans rights.

    The quote (from Mark Twain?) speaks to a frustrating truth in human psychology:

    • Cognitive bias: People often cling to beliefs even when faced with overwhelming contradictory evidence.
    • Confirmation bias: They seek out information that supports their views and ignore what doesn’t.
    • Emotional reasoning: Logic takes a backseat when identity or ego is involved.

    Twain—whether he said it or not—was known for skewering ignorance and hypocrisy. This quote fits right into his legacy of challenging dogma and celebrating critical thinking.

    What did people say about this video?

    @DOUBLEZZRANCH
    1 month ago
    She believes the louder she is, the more she’s right 😂

    @BreakifyTV
    2 days ago
    Although he is no longer with us, I’ve become deeply involved in Charlie Kirk’s movement. I’ve watched every one of his videos and become a dedicated fan. I just wish I had discovered him while he was still alive. The assassin may have tried to silence him, but it only gave Charlie more voice and followers.

    @GalaxyRaptor981
    1 month ago
    Being louder doesn’t mean you’re right

    Let’s Break Down the Ideas

    Loudness vs. Logic

    This is where Twain’s quote gets complicated. For some, evidence isn’t the currency of persuasion—emotion, identity, and perceived injustice are. The assassination didn’t silence Kirk’s message; it amplified it among those already aligned with his views.

    @DOUBLEZZRANCH and @GalaxyRaptor981 both critique the idea that volume equals validity. This directly ties to Twain’s quote—being loud doesn’t make one receptive to truth. In fact, it often signals the opposite: a refusal to engage with reasoned argument.

    The louder someone insists they’re right, the more they may be shielding themselves from inconvenient facts. It’s not about persuasion—it’s about performance.

    Martyrdom and Echo Chambers

    @BreakifyTV introduces a different angle: the posthumous rise of Charlie Kirk’s influence. Whether one agrees with his politics or not, the comment reflects how belief systems can intensify when challenged or attacked.

    This is a textbook case of:

    • The futility of logic in emotionally charged discourse
    • Belief reinforcement through conflict
    • Identity-driven engagement
  • Top Charlie Kirk Debate Videos

    Top Charlie Kirk Debate Videos

    1. Charlie Kirk Debate at Cambridge Union

    2. Immigration Debate

    3. Charlie Kirk Teams Up with Vivek Ramaswamy

  • MSNBC Reporter Fired for Charlie Kirk Comment

    MSNBC Reporter Fired for Charlie Kirk Comment

    Response to Dowd’s MSNBC Comments

    I’ve spent the last few days listening to Charlie Kirk’s debates—not soundbites, not headlines, but full conversations.

    And I’ll say this plainly: calling him “divisive” is a lazy label.

    It’s what people reach for when they’re uncomfortable with disagreement. But disagreement is the bedrock of democracy. It’s how we sharpen ideas, not silence them.

    The Comment by Dowd, MSNBC Reporter

    He’s been one of the most divisive, especially divisive younger figures in this, who is constantly sort of pushing this sort of hate speech or sort of aimed at certain groups. And I always go back to, hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions. And I think that is the environment we are in. You can’t stop with these sort of awful thoughts you have and then saying these awful words and not expect awful actions to take place. And that’s the unfortunate environment we are in.

    Dowd’s comment—“hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions”—is a dangerous oversimplification.

    It assumes intent.

    It assumes causality.

    And it assumes that speech, even provocative speech, is inherently violent. That’s not just wrong—it’s authoritarian.

    “Divisive” It’s a name people reach for when they’re uncomfortable with disagreement.

    I lean right on most political issues, but I’m fiercely protective of individual rights. That includes the right to speak freely, even if what’s said makes people squirm.

    Kirk challenges ideas.

    He provokes thought. That’s not hate—it’s discourse. And if we start punishing people for being “divisive,” we’re not protecting society—we’re protecting fragility.

    As someone who spends her life in the wild—where nature doesn’t coddle, and truth doesn’t bend—I find this kind of reaction from MSNBC cowardly.

    Dowd didn’t just mischaracterize Kirk; he implied that words justify violence.

    That’s a slippery slope, and it’s one we should all be wary of.

    Charlie Kirk wasn’t owed violence. He was owed the same thing every American is: the right to speak, to challenge, and to be heard without fear.

  • In Memory of Charlie Kirk, Freedom

    In Memory of Charlie Kirk, Freedom

    My Favorite Word: Freedom

    Sadly, this was the word on Charlie Kirk’s shirt the last day of his life.

    Freedom.

    Rightly so, his was

    A life dedicated to free speech

    public debate

    open discource

    rigorous critiques and arguments

    all focused on individual freedom.

    Sadly, his was a life taken too soon.

    A family torn from their father.

    If only violence were not used, instead, we always relied on our words – our discource, written and spoken.

    Then ideas could flourish freely.

    Daily writing prompt
    What’s your favorite word?
    View all responses

    Image Source: Wikipedia, Erika Kirk and Charlie Kirk speaking with attendees at the 2025 Young Women’s Leadership Summit at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.

  • Tonight? Cooking Gumbo

    Tonight? Cooking Gumbo

    Tonight, I cook gumbo and drink red wine. Forgoing my yoga hour instead doing something lovely and unexpected.

    I went to the store and bought sausage and shrimp and now I’m rouing up the holy trinity.

    The kitchen smells of celery, bell pepper, onion — and coffee.

    Because yes, I put coffee in my gumbo.

    I might be from PA, but I know gumbo.

    Daily writing prompt
    What are you doing this evening?
    View all responses