It's Official...

I really like golf. This year was my 3rd year to go to the Master's with John. Two years ago when I went for the first time, I knew absolutely nothing about golf- and I am actually pretty tuned in with sports. My brothers did not grow up playing or watching golf so I guess it never struck my fancy either. I could not have told you the difference between a birdie or a bogie. And Tiger Woods was the only golfer I would somewhat recognize.

John loves golf . He grew up playing and going to the Master's each year. The last two years I have tried so hard to learn as much as I possibly could about the sport (only while at the tournament, of course). I have asked John so many questions (probably multiple times) to try and understand. I was so proud when this year during the tournment, he turned to me and said, "You've become quite the little golf fan." He realized this year I was not asking questions, I was participating in the conversation and keeping up with the tee cards just as he was doing so.

When I told John how much I was loving the golf he said, "I think you just love the Master's." We laughed, but in reality, I think it is true. I love experiences with lots of history and tradition - and that is the Master's. The whole thing truly fascinates me. All the rules: The secret society of members, no phones, no cameras/pictures, no public selling or purchasing of tickets, no sponsors, etc. The traditions: the volunteers in Augusta who make this production happen (so smoothly and very organized), local school teachers who take their spring break to make all the sandwiches, nothing in the concession is over $3, the same very short and simple menu every year, and of course so many of the same fans who come back year after year. It is very much a family event. And talk about a great place to people watch!

Bobby Jones did a great job making this an elite course and tournament. It is amazing how honored people are just to be able to watch the golf at Augusta National. It is refreshing to see a place and an event with so much respect from fans. Of all the sporting events I have witnessed, this is the only one I have never seen a drunk fan, a piece of trash on the ground, a fight or a police officer escort someone out of the crowd.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to have gone several years. It is a remarkable southern sporting event. If you ever have the chance to go, you must take it!

So maybe I do just love golf while at the Master's.