The Masters - It really is THE Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Ah….The Masters

Yes, it IS the most wonderful time of the year!  How else does one describe perfect (sometimes chilly) spring mornings followed by glorious sunny afternoons, roaring crowds, immaculate grounds….epic golf?  It’s The Masters, and there is no tournament like it in the world.

I may be biased (and a wee bit spoiled- ha!). My grandparents went to The Masters and were patrons.  My parents were patrons when they were dating. I was finally “invited” to go with mom and dad when I was ten. Dad made sure that my sisters and I knew at least a few rules about golf and respected the game and the National before we were allowed on those hallowed grounds. My very first trip to The Masters started with a tour past the clubhouse to see the trophies on display.  This was followed by a day sitting on the seventh fairway, just taking it all in-from Jack to Arnie to Sève-we saw them all-and loved every minute.

Fast forward to high school and being allowed to venture off with my friends to watch different players and follow the action on my own.  Watching Jack Nicklaus win his sixth green jacket in 1986 (dating myself here,I know😂) was an unbelievable moment.

College (and maybe a few years after that) was different. We were there strictly for the social aspects! Meeting on “the hill” amongst the azaleas-lots of chatting, but not much spectating…we did enjoy the occasional golf shot, or following our favourite players for a few holes…only to return to the hill and more fun!

Years later. And twenty years ago this weekend. The longest rain delay in Masters history. And life changed forever. My friends and I met a group of Australians, one of whom was Richard.  This handsome,  blue eyed man from somewhere called the Hunter Valley!? in Australia!? was charming, entertaining, funny and kind. Three years later, we got engaged at the exact same place we had met-walking near the eighth green.  We have had so many incredible times in Augusta-driving down Magnolia Lane, azaleas on the green, lunches in the clubhouse,  viewing the action from the tv tower, richard caddying in the Par 3 contest. Memories to last a lifetime!

We don’t go to Augusta every year anymore as we have golf obligations in other places (this year will be Spain and Portugal). But we will be watching and cheering. And we will be back. I can’t wait. ⛳️🌺💚