Christmas has come and gone like the wind. Isn't weird how when you were a kid it seemed like forever for Christmas to get here, and now that you're an adult you just blink and it's gone? Weird, indeed. I hope Santa left you what you asked for and your stocking was full.

If you're one of the lucky ones who has a few days off between Christmas and New Year's Eve, you don't have to spend every day in line at the big-box stores trying to save a dollar on wrapping paper. Think hunting.

Sure, most of the big game seasons have come and gone except for a few states, but don't forget the little critters. They're exciting to hunt, challenging to outwit and they are tasty right next to the leftover Christmas yams or potatoes.

Squirrels, rabbits, pheasants, grouse, geese and ducks all have long seasons with generous bag limits. Many of these can be hunted on public lands, and because there isn't an "antler craze" associated with them, landowners often grant access permission. Here's an even better idea: Take a kid out hunting this holiday break.

Kids are out of school and itching for something to do. Getting them away from the video games and computer for an afternoon is just what the doctor ordered. Before you hit the woods, hit the shooting range for a refresher and to get the fires of hunting burning. Finally, when you show up on the porch of a landowner with an eager child, farmers and ranchers often grant permission for small game. There's plenty of time to watch football and grab a discount item at the mall, but the window is brief to hook a kid on hunting. Try to hook one this week.