Capt. Mark East’s Advice to the Careworn, Confused, Lovelorn and Other Outdoor People

Dear Captain,
I am widowed now for some 15 years. My late husband was an avid fisherman and hunter and he also like to collect a lot of stuff for his pursuits. I have kept all of this equipment, not really knowing what to do with it and I guess hoping I might meet someone who would enjoy me and liked the outdoors as well. That never happened so I wondered if you had any suggestions.
Signed, Sporting Goods Perplexed

Dear Sporting Goods Perplexed,
I’m sorry to hear of what apparently has been your time without husband and companionship. I’m going to guess that his guns and fishing gear could be quite valuable, so my suggestion would be to find a dealer or better yet a reputable auctioneer to handle a sale or auction. Take the proceeds, find a good “singles” cruise, spend the proceeds and live it up. One never knows who you might meet.

Dear Capt. East,
There’s nothing I enjoy at my age more than taking my youngest granddaughter who’s six out fishing. She’s managed to catch some rather large bass and perch this year and can’t wait for me to take her this summer when school is out. She also wants me to teach her to shoot a gun. My daughter is giving me a very hard time, telling me I’m trying to make her into the son I never had. What should I do?
Signed, Oriented Grandfather

Dear Oriented Grandfather,
This is difficult. Either way, someone’s unhappy with you. However, I would steady on the course of teaching your granddaughter the wonders and pleasures of the great outdoors.To do this you might begin to work in some other activities, such as girly things: taking her shopping, dressing up to go out to eat, good children’s movies, etc. Stay on the positive side of your daughter and it will all work out. There’s nothing like a female who’s “Belle of the Ball” one night and enjoys duck hunting next morning.

Write: capmarke@gmail.com