Like Father, Like Son

It's not exactly a secret that Jim is a golf fanatic. It's also not exactly a secret that I don't like the game, and that I am not overly fond of the time it takes away from other activities. However, I can't exactly fight passion for the hobby - whether originating from my husband, co-workers, brothers/brother-in-law...basically the world around me. So, I won't go so far as to say that I've become tolerant (because I still like to gripe) - let's just say it is a not-so-readily accepted drudgery of life.

After watching Daddy golf in the backyard for the past 4 1/2 years, my cute little buddies are adopting an interest in golf. Up until now, it's been kinda cute. Jim would have his club out and show the boys how to take a swing or two. In fact, this has been going on for several years (the 1st picture here was taken Sept 2005, the 2nd May 2006). However, the past 2 weeks, the boys (Tanner leads...Alex figures out Tanner is missing and follows) are independently going out to the garage, grabbing clubs, tee and ball and heading out on their own. Like little pros, they put the tee in the ground, put the ball on the tee, hold the club with a reasonably accurate grip and then swing (the swing needs a LOT of work).

This is fine and cute and picture-worthy...and makes Daddy totally proud and happy. Great - I get that! Now, here's the reality check - the evidence that an interest of golf is moving toward infatuation. Tanner initated one of his impromptu, unauthorized, independent golf practices Saturday AM. No shoes, underwear and PJ top was the attire (in the front yard of course)! So, I haul him in, get him dressed and tell him he can play for a few minutes and then we need to go to Costco.

Up until yesterday, a trip to Costco was always met with cheers. Especially for TanMan (my little shopping buddy). Imagine my shock and frustration when Jimmy's little mini-me(s) replied (whining) to my urging that it was time to go "No, no, no! I need to practice my golfing!". I replied - 'First Costco, then more golfing'. This should have been easy-breezy...hop in the van...no issues. Wrong. More protests, crying while getting into the van and on the way down the street. I thought to myself - you've got to be kidding me!. Seriously - God wouldn't do this to me. I can handle a lot, but living with 3 golf addicts I think is penance deserving of a person much more evil than I. Of course, where is Jim during all of this? Do you even need to ask at this point in my rant?

So - the term 'golf widow' was reasonably applicable prior to yesterday's meltdown. But if we continue at this rate - I'll be the posterchild for the term in the decades ahead. Since I don't have a daughter...I guess I'll just have to hope that a sister or niece move my way to keep me company Spring-Fall. I think I may have found a reason to be thankful for Michigan winters - I'll have the undivided attention back of all the men in my life! Snow and golfing just don't mix - luckily ;)