It has sure been a while since my last update, and finally have some time to post to the blog. Well, since my last posting I have played in 3 events and had 2 poor showings and one decent tournament. I played in a Tar Heel event and shot 149 (78-71) as well as a Hooters event in South Bend, Indiana and actually had the poorest showing of the year 163 (80-83). I also played in the local US Open qualifier in West Virginia and shot 79 (37-42). No good. No excuses. My swing has been in a bit of a funk, as well as my mental frame of mind, and it culminated with my play in South Bend.

One of the best things I have learned about tournament golf this year has been that once a tournament is over, there is always next week and the next event. There is little time to dwell on the past, other than to learn from it and move on. I have played in 18 events thus far in 2006, and I believe that schedule has been a little heavy, especially for a first year professional. The thinking was to jump into playing as many tournaments as possible, and I really have not allowed for much rest (physical as well as mental) or practice. Next year I will definitely space my play earlier in the year so that I am fresher for every event and give myself the best chance to play well. I have mentioned before that this year has been one of adjusting to playing professional golf vs. casual or amateur golf, and I have come to understand and value the importance of scheduling as it relates to preparation and performance.

That catches us up to my most recent tournament. I played this week in a Sunbelt Seniors tournament in Pinehurst and finished 10th with scores of 70-69-70=209. I was able to play fairly well for 3 days, and cashed a check of $700. Not great by any means, but an improvement over past weeks and something on which to build. Playing well builds confidence, and I need a shot of confidence right now.

I have one more tournament before the baby comes, and will take a few weeks off to help my sweetie. This time will give me a chance get some much need practice in and rest up for the second half of the year.

Over the past few weeks many folks have helped out while traveling. Ken Budd hosted me at his beautiful mountain home in Glade Springs, and caddied for me as well in the US Open qualifier. I stayed with Larry and Janie Guy in South Bend (members of Knollwood CC) and they were perfect hosts. Stephen caddied for me and did a great job. We were able to take in a few of the sights while in South Bend, including Notre Dame and the College Football Hall of Fame. We even went to daily Mass 2 times at the Basilica on campus.

Phil Warshauer's parents hosted me in Pinehurst, and Stu and Retts were great as well. I particularly enjoyed playing a few holes with Stu in the late afternoons at Pinehurst CC, one of my favorite places in the world.

It is evident that I have faced some challenges so far in this first year of playing professional golf. My resolve is strong, and I will continue to build upon the positives. I know the second half of the year will be better, and the challenges of the first five months will make me stronger. It is hard to explain in writing what goes through your mind playing at this level without actually experiencing it, and I know that I am tougher now than when I started. This toughness is acquired through some pain and failure, and you have to experience it in order to improve. Here's to continuous improvement!!