It Just Don't Get Better Than This

After a marathon road trip the last couple of days, I made it back home tonight with leaving again on my mind. Tomorrow (Thursday) I’m taking the day off and will spend the day with my three boys and one of my brothers at the Augusta National Golf Club where we will be attending Day One of the Masters.


I can tell you it just doesn’t get any better that getting to spend a day with my three boys. The older they all get the more difficult it has become to find time for all of us to be together. But to get to be together at the most beautiful venue in sports watching the best golfers in the world compete – it just don’t get better.

There is no way to even describe the Augusta National. To say it is breathtaking is a huge understatement. It is the most beautiful place I have ever visited in my life. And I’ve been around.

I have so many great memories of the Masters. And I have been there at every stage of my life. I remember going there with my dad before I was old enough to drive. I remember taking some of my high school friends and having the time of our lives. I remember taking my college buddies from Athens and meeting my parents at the IHOP in Augusta to get the badges. I remember taking my wife (who is not a golf fan at all) and watching her become mesmerized with the beauty and all the people. I remember taking some of my buddies from Reynolds after I got married. I remember taking a preacher or two so they could enjoy the beauty and the sport. I remember seeing my little boys awestruck when they got within arms length of Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus.

What I have enjoyed the most over the years is taking someone who appreciates the game of golf who has never been before. To watch their expression when they walk on those hallowed grounds is an amazing thing to watch.

One year I had a preacher friend ask me in the car on the way if Augusta National was a 9 hole course or an 18 hole course. After that question I asked him to hold all questions he might have on the course until we got back in the car.

When I look back on my years there is no doubt I have spent some of the best times of my life at the Masters Golf Tournament.

The anticipation and excitement of having the opportunity to spend the day there tomorrow with my three grown sons and my brother will make it difficult for me to get to sleep tonight.

One thing is for sure. None of my boys will have to spend a dime on anything. I’m buying.

After all, to have the opportunity for days like this is one of the reasons I go to work every day.