Have you killed a deer?

If you're a deer hunter, you've heard this question. As a deer hunter who has not killed a deer this year, I have heard this question a lot. In fact, I think I hear it every day.
Now, in all honesty, I do like being asked this question because it gives me a chance to talk about deer hunting. And do I ever love to talk deer hunting, especially to another deer hunter. They will ask if I killed a deer yet, and then we can discuss things about the season, hunting in general, the weather, etc. I can ask them about their season, what it has been like on their property, and what other hunters are saying. We can carry this conversation on for a long time.When a NON deer-hunter asks me if I have killed a deer, thats when it gets interesting.
I am certain most people mean absolutely no harm when they ask someone about their deer hunting. Well, I am fairly certain. Of course, why don't they ever ask how much enjoyment I have received from my time outdoors? Now that would be a great question. Anyway, here is two ways the conversation usually goes.
Non-Hunter: Have you been deer hunting? (Never mind that they know my job is usually on the line during deer season because if I am not missing work and in the woods, my mind is there.)
Me: Yes.
Non-Hunter: Have you killed one?
Me: No.
Non-Hunter: Really!? I saw three deer last night driving home. There is always deer out there by the store.
Me: Hmm.
Non-Hunter: Maybe you shoud hunt with Betty Joe. She's killed three this year. And she's in bad health, especially after having cataract surgery in both eyes. You want me to try and get you a hunt with her?
Me: Good for her. Not about the cataracts, but killing the deer. No thanks, I think I will keep hunting on my place.
Non-Hunter: Why? It doesn't sound like a very good place if you haven't even killed one yet...

The other possibility is this...

Non-Hunter: Have you killed a deer?
Me: No, but I have spent a lot of time with my boys helping them this year. In fact, they both killed their first deer this year!
Non-Hunter: Well, bless your heart. You were out-hunted by your kids! That must make you feel pretty bad.
Me: No, no! I am happy for them.
Non-Hunter: Sure you are. It's okay, there are a lot of people who just don't make very good hunters...

The conversation can really get interesting if I mention that I am waiting on a certain deer, not just any deer. The "trophy-hunting" excuse just doesn't get many takers.

So, as this deer season winds down, it appears that I can expect a lot of people asking me, "Have you killed a deer"!