This week I played in the Hooters Tour event in Statesville, NC. I shot 74-71=145 and missed the cut by 4. I actually played decent, and finished strong with 32 on my final 9 holes coming in. I am seeing some improvement in my play, and that bodes well for the second half of the year. Ken Budd caddied for me again on Thursday, and Joey Perkins was on the bag Friday. Both did great jobs, and I appreciate their time to come out and support me. David Carr was also on hand for Thursday's round, and it was great to have him there as well.

My two oldest daughters, Ann Howell and Barrett, came out for the final 7 holes on Friday. We were going to the Tom Petty concert in Charlotte after the round, and the plan was to meet and walk the final 9 holes. Well, we turned right on time and the girls were nowhere to be found. I shot 39 on the front, and made bogey from 60 yards on 10 from the middle of the fairway. I found myself distracted somewhat, as I was scouring the course looking for those beautiful girls. Well they showed up on 3 (my 12th hole) and I played the remaining 7 holes on 5 under! I needed them to show up for the whole day! Anyway, we zipped down the the concert and had a great time.

All else is well on the homefront. Young Stephen Brown shot 79 this week, breaking 80 for the first time. I have enjoyed watching him become more interested in golf, and seeing his love for the game develop. Steph is ready to have the baby, but we still have 10 days until she is due. She has been feeling well and the baby is very active! The remainder of the Brown crew is out of school and starting their summer jobs of lifeguarding, babysitting and lawnmowing.

One of the ways I know my game is getting better is that my casual golf is picking up. I played in the "Bone" at Forsyth yesterday and shot an easy 32-32=64 with no bogeys. Casual rounds played well are good for your confidence, and making a bunch of birdies is never a bad thing.

I am off now until the baby arrives. I may play in a one day event here and there in June, and will pick back up in early July.