Argomenti trattati
Meet Nicholas, an enthusiastic Apprentice 3 Lineman at BEMC, who has been part of the team for two years. Residing in the Southport/Oak Island District, he brings a refreshing perspective on leisure and life. Unlike many who are captivated by sports on television, Nicholas prefers the thrill of real-life adventures. He candidly states, “I’d rather be outside doing something rather than watching someone else do something. To me, it’s kind of boring.” This mindset reflects his deep-rooted love for the outdoors, which has shaped much of his life.
Embracing outdoor activities
When Nicholas is not working, he finds joy in the great outdoors. He enjoys spending time on his boat with friends, fishing, and hunting. Growing up, he was fortunate to have a childhood filled with exploration rather than screen time. “I had video games, but I never really played them,” Nicholas recalls. “Riding bikes, fishing, and exploring were much more enjoyable.” This nostalgic view of childhood influences his aspirations as a parent. He plans to encourage his children to experience the world outside rather than be glued to screens, saying, “They’ll have a BB gun before they have an Xbox.”
The thrill of the hunt
Nicholas shares a fond memory from his childhood that solidified his passion for hunting. At the age of seven or eight, he accompanied his father on a hunting trip and bagged his first deer. “It was such a good feeling, and he was so proud,” he reminisces. This bonding moment with his father not only instilled a love for hunting in Nicholas but also created a desire to pass this tradition on to his future children. He looks forward to sharing similar experiences with them and hopes to see the same pride in their eyes.
A loyal companion
Teak, Nicholas’s two-year-old black lab, plays a pivotal role in his outdoor adventures, especially during duck hunting season. Teak is not just a pet; he is Nicholas’s dedicated hunting partner. “When I put his collar on him, he knows it’s time to work, and he is ready to go,” Nicholas explains. Training Teak required dedication and patience, but the reward was worth the effort. The first successful outing, where Teak instinctively understood his role, marked a moment of triumph for both of them. Despite a few mischievous days as a puppy, such as the time he chewed up the outdoor couch cushions, Teak’s progress has been impressive.
Planning future adventures
When asked what constitutes a perfect day, Nicholas paints a vivid picture. “I’d start with hunting in the cool morning air, then as the day warms up to around eighty degrees, I’d head out on the boat with friends for some fun,” he shares, concluding with a delicious meal of Mexican food. Nicholas is also looking forward to upcoming hunting trips, including a planned deer hunting expedition to Ohio and a duck hunting adventure yet to be finalized. These excursions promise to create new memories filled with laughter, camaraderie, and delicious meals like duck poppers or grilled flounder seasoned with lemon pepper.
In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Nicholas cherishes the time he spends with his family, particularly his parents and sister. Sharing meals together, especially cooked game, enhances the joy of their gatherings. His experiences reflect a profound connection to nature, family, and the simple pleasures that life offers beyond the confines of technology.
As Nicholas continues his journey with BEMC and in life, it is evident that his passion for the outdoors and commitment to family will shape his future adventures. He serves as an inspiration for those looking to embrace the beauty of nature and create lasting memories away from screens.