Day 91 - August 16, 2011

Even though I have yet to play 18 holes, I am officially ending this challenge. I know you are probably disappointed, but I will explain my reasons. First of all, I am a goal-oriented over-achiever. Stuart did not take this into consideration when he issued this challenge. He also intended for me to practice golf every day for the 90 days. This is realistic for a college player, but not so for a mother of two toddlers with a job. I practiced 15 days for an average of 5 times per month or a little more than once a week. I am busy and this is all I could fit in my schedule.

Yesterday, on day 91, I had an opportunity to play since my mom had the kids. Stuart was supposed to play with me early in the afternoon, but got caught up and could not go until 4:00. I already felt rushed and pressured to finish the challenge. We got to the course, Cypress Lakes, and found out that 3 holes and the putting green were closed due to heat damage on the turf. I didn't get to warm up at all. I hit it in the water on the first hole and it went downhill from there. I got frustrated, emotional, nauseous, etc. Stuart said "Just have fun." To which I replied, "I could if you hadn't given me this stupid challenge!"

I got myself together and decided to try to make a par ... a personal goal of mine. We played hole 15 twice and the second time I hit my 3 wood into the middle of the fairway and my 7 iron about 15 feet below the hole. I putted it within 1 inch and thought it was going in for a birdie. However, I did make my first par, so I call that success!

I realize that I will not be able to enjoy playing golf with Stuart, which was the point of all this, while this somewhat unrealistic challenge is hanging over my head. So, I am going to end it here and feel free to continue working on my game and enjoying time with Stuart on the course. I am happy for me! Thank you all for following. I will continue to post to this blog every once in awhile to update you on my progress. I hope to play once a week or so and continue to improve.