The Golfchick

That chick blabbing about anything golf related.

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Red Envelope: Expect Good (Golf) Things

July 31, 2010 / / 12 Comments

If you’ve never received a gift that came from Red Envelope, you are missing out. And if you’re reading this, you’re probably a golfer, so you’ll want to put golf gifts from Red Envelope on your wish list.

I am delighted to have recently received this gorgeous two-piece monogrammed set of golf gifts. The only way I could be happier with them is if they had my cute little golf chick logo on them. Custom embroidery isn’t an option but I love that they are personalized with my initials. If it isn’t obvious from the photo, they’re a golf shoe bag and a cooler bag. I happen to love the colors which are classy and neutral and both bags are big enough to hold plenty of stuff. The cooler bag is plenty tall to hold long necks, wine bottles (yes, of course I tried!) or a nice cold pitcher of your favorite beverage. The bottles are only sticking out in the photo for effect – I stuffed the bottom. They’re both made out of the same sturdy material with strong zippers, pockets, handles and straps. The cooler bag also has a handy clip so you can secure it to your bag, cart, basket, whatever. The shoe bag has subtle side vents to air out your shoes.

Everyone who sees me with these items wants some of their own. Bonus: I think the monogramming will help prevent theft!

Red Elvelope golf gifts

I’ve received gifts from RedEnvelope before and they’ve always been first class. This time was no exception. They have a lot of new golf items in their collection so if you haven’t seen them lately, take a peek at their website. Not that there’s a shortage of gift ideas for golfers, but many of these are unique and have available personalization to give the golfer(s) in your life -including you – something truly special.

Whenever I see a package or box from RedEnvelope, I know it’s gonna be good. I know I must be sounding like their marketing mouth but this is simply an honest assessment. If I was on their marketing team, I would make the headline of this blog post their slogan (after assuring it’s not already trademarked by someone else): “Red Envelope: Expect Good Things.”

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Precious Little Golf Chick at it again

June 8, 2010 / / 6 Comments

I’m not a big facebook-er. Signed up a few years back and just never really saw the point. I know, with this website and all you’d think I’d be more active with ALL social media. Something about facebook just always rubbed me the wrong way. I think I have a whopping 5 friends on it and never pay it any attention. I recently had to get more involved in it on behalf of the candidate whose campaign I’m working on and had a really bad experience with a silly punk who decided to use it as a harassment tool. Tool is right. The whole mess just kind of reinforced my feeling about the level of maturity of people on the site (present company excluded, of course). Now facebook is somewhat under fire for their new (lack of) privacy issues so I think I’m just going to sit on my heels awhile longer and wish for the trend to dissipate. Yeah right, right? Anyway…

I just had another experience that made me actually ENJOY the level of maturity on facebook when I got an email informing me that someone posted a link on my wall. I had to look:

jenna facebook post

Oh Jenna – I mean Peacechick – you rock! You’re very welcome for the thing a maging. Let’s get back out on the course again soon so you can use it! I’m sure you didn’t get in much trouble for posting on your mom’s facebook – after all, you didn’t give yourself unsupervised access to it. :-)

Note to readers: Jenna’s one of my favorite little golfchicks, a terrific big sister to Kate, and they along with their mother Darla and dog Bailey are wonderful neighbors. The “thing a maging” in question is a golfchick logo’d divot tool. I’m working on some posts covering my recent trip to the 2010 Mesquite Am (if you were there you just might have your own “thing a maging,” which is now its official name) so stay tuned!

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In town for the Mesquite Amateur

May 31, 2010 / / 6 Comments

I arrived tonight in Mesquite for this year’s Mesquite Am. If you don’t know, it’s a fun amateur tournament in which anyone with an established handicap can compete. People come from all over the country and some even cross oceans to be here. I played last year and had a brilliant time so I’m back again for more.

I remember last year there was little time for blogging during my stay because there was just so much going on in addition to the golf and so much more I didn’t even get to do! I blogged about it plenty when I got home, but Mesquite is a Nevada city with resorts, spas and casinos and I expect this year to be much the same with regards to blogging time. However…

Not to get too carried away with the chick references, but tweeting is so easy to do on the fly, so watch for my tweets from Mesquite! Follow me on Twitter @TheGolfChick for frequent updates this week. So many great courses and events for a chick to peep tweet about!

BTW: Last year I flew out here, this year I drove. Going through Las Vegas I noticed the giant Nike billboard for their factory store there. Such a prominent location surely used to feature Tiger in this “Just Do It” image, but I was happy to see that it now features what looked like Suzann Petterson. Hard to tell because she was sporting a fierce victory face & pose (and I was going 65 70 80 90? mph (shhh… don’t tell the po-po). Great billboard, Nike.

Tomorrow I start with a warm-up round at the brand new course Conestoga, and I’m so excited to check it out! Gotta get to sleep now so I can be fresh and ready for that!

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Elkins Ranch is looking great!

May 26, 2010 / / 1 Comment

Without giving you a dreary blow-by-blow, occurrences over the last year or so have pounded me pretty hard. While I think I’ve done pretty well keeping my chin up and looking for a bright side most of the time, I had admitted to myself that I most likely wouldn’t be surprised by anything ever again. Happily, I have been proven wrong by an unlikely source. I’ll try to just let that stand on its own and not worry that it’s probably only the “happy” angle that caught me off guard. The happy surprise was Elkins Ranch Golf Course.

Elkins Ranch is a course in nearby Fillmore, CA, where locals go to sneak in a round at a full length golf course without paying a fortune or expecting the biggest challenge or best conditions. The course is literally on property owned by ranchers and its conditioning and patrons never seemed to be their biggest concern, if you know what I mean. All along, though, people have traveled far and wide just to enjoy one of the finest cheeseburgers in the county if not beyond. The golf course? Not so much. Like I indicated – we kept it on our rotation for its affordability, friendly service and change of scenery. Well, I just played there on Saturday and have never seen it looking so good! The greens were always in decent shape but the fairways and the rest of the course left much to be desired. This time, the fairways were beautiful, the rough was actually rough and separate from those fairways and the greens were in terrific form. There are still those holes where you might should don a hardhat due to the proximity of the adjacent holes, but that’s Elkins and you go there knowing that. I was so appreciative of the course’s conditioning that I could actually appreciate the challenge it presents by its design, which is interesting. I never really noticed that before because hitting from patchy, holey fairways is difficult enough that I never had the time or inclination to consider the thought behind the architecture.

I’m telling you, if you haven’t played Elkins in awhile, get out there soon. I don’t know if it’s the economy forcing them to focus on their golf business instead of their ranch or just a newfound interest in the golf side, but this place is looking and playing fine! I never planned on blogging about Elkins Ranch so I didn’t have a camera with me. I guess you’ll just have to trust me on this. Check it out! And don’t forget to order their famous cheeseburger at the turn.

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Nike Makes Bad Call on Tiger Commercial

April 8, 2010 / / 11 Comments

Yes, Nike’s foible spurred me to write before Tiger’s did. I’m more forgiving of human flaws and mistakes than corporations trying to make a buck off them. Of course this wouldn’t have been possible without Tiger’s reprehensible behavior, and if he had anything to do with this ad other than that, I blame him for it as well. Either way, I’m in no way expressing sympathy for Tiger because of this ad.

I’ve been quiet on everything lately. Even the Tiger “scandal” couldn’t draw me out to discuss my thoughts, of which I have plenty, I assure you. Then, just as I’m getting ready to share my thoughts on that as well as the Masters and everything else, out pops Nike’s controversial Tiger advertisement that seems to depict Earl Woods, Tiger’s deceased father, asking his son questions about Tiger’s intentions and moral charactertiger woods nike ad that, of course, Tiger never answers because they were completely out of context. Distasteful? Opportunistic? I think so. And if Tiger actually posed for this current ad wearing his Nike garb rather than Nike taking it upon themselves to use past images, that’s disgusting as well. (Not that Tiger doesn’t have disgusting in him.) Throughout Tiger’s troubles, Nike was one sponsor that stuck by him. Now Nike is trying to rebuild their Tiger-related image after all they already have, and plan to continue to, invest in him – I get that.

The Honest Review I Hate to Give

Truth be told, I’m actually a pretty big fan of Nike Golf products. For a long time I have enjoyed their golf balls. Plus, awhile back, they were kind enough to send me their VR STR8-FIT Tour Driver to review it against the TaylorMade competitor and simply asked for an honest review. It was still on my list of things to do because not only do I owe them some feedback (which would have been positive for them) but I felt compelled to give them any mention at all in this blog for the beneficial impact it had on my game. Here you go, Nike: you replaced TaylorMade in my bag in the driver section. Club vs. club, you win. The review would have been much longer and much more glowing had you not blown it with this Tiger thing (or had I done it sooner – but then I surely would have referenced back on it in this post). Here’s your bone – if I had a better driver, I’d gladly use. Sadly, I’m wont for better gear even though it pains me to say so. I truly wish I didn’t like it as much as I did. My TaylorMade driver practically screams to me to get back in my bag and the way I’m playing I’m tempted to listen especially since my game and swing suck so much lately it really doesn’t matter what club(s) I use.

Now What?

Now that Nike put such a sour taste in my mouth with this Tiger thing, I really wish everyone would stop buying Nike products, no matter how much you like them. At least until they do something to redeem themselves after “THE TIGER AD.” Strong stance, I know, especially from someone who has been dormant for so long and benefited from Nike’s generosity. Tell you what: if I don’t see some redemptive ad in the next few days (they’re bound to have follow-ups during the Masters this week and I’ll let you know how I feel), my old driver is going back in my bag.

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Same sh!t, different year, renewed attitude

January 5, 2010 / / 11 Comments

In case you were wondering…

It’s coming up on six months that I’ve been displaced from my home due to a sewage flood. Don’t worry, the golf clubs were rescued. Anyway, since I haven’t been working in the traditional sense, I decided to take on the job myself of repairing my home. Work only began in earnest about 5 weeks ago when I finally got the money from the responsible party (HOA – tree roots). The new year arrived and I had just finished getting all the wallboard up and mudded, and scheduled a friend to come in and help with the texturing. Then…

I arrive at the jobsite to complete a final sanding and mask prep the day before the big texture and – can you believe it? – water had seeped in through the brand new walls from the adjoining condo. Today was texture day and we got most of it done but the plumber has been out twice now and cannot locate the leak. I may have to seal up the wall and just cross my fingers but I haven’t quite wrapped my head around my options and solutions and it’s just so frustrating that I can’t think straight. Happy birthday to me. Yep, today actually is my birthday. I’m physically and emotionally exhausted so once again I’m opting out of social celebrations in favor of some quality Wii time. And there’s a very special someone coming over to make me a nice dinner and pamper me in general. We worked late so he’s at the store now picking up the goods while I squeeze in this little martini blogging session.

Progress report on my journey to the PGA Tour in virtual land

I attained phenom status and a new sponsor in Precept. I won the European Shootout at St. Andrews by a 10 stroke margin even though I think Sabbatini cheated after seeing my first round 58. I finished 50 under and set birdie and putting records and he managed to go low every subsequent day to finish at -40. Easiest course I’ve played on this thing yet. I wish I could putt like this in real life. I also have enough wins to go straight to Q school but I think I’m gonna play some more tourneys and gain some more experience. And unlock some more clothes, shoes and gear. Speaking of which – that’s not very realistic. A beginning golfer can go out and purchase whatever they want. I have to prove myself in order to unlock the good stuff. Oh well, I guess they need to have some “rewards” in there. I do like the Precision putting feature better than the “classic.”

Now that I got some golf related material in there, I just want to say this:

Just like every day starts a new year, one doesn’t have to reserve thankfulness for Thanksgiving. I know I probably sound like I complain a lot but I am very thankful to have so many people in my life who care about me. I have had a lot of help and support from friends and family during these trying times and I feel extremely fortunate. It’s not always easy to focus on these positive things when other crap keeps piling up around me but I have my health, shelter, and love around me and I know the value of that. I also very much appreciate all of you who continue to check in here and especially the nice comments and emails you have sent. I’m glad you’re still here and I will strive to be better for you this year than last.

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Happy New Year From The Golf Chick-munk

January 1, 2010 / / 8 Comments

Once in a blue moon I opt out of any social New Year’s Eve celebration. The universe provided the blue moon so here we are – just me, my loving doggy and some quality quiet time with the Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 on the Wii. (Yes, I can still type – and say – that name without spitting. Perhaps there will be more on that in a later post.)

My “decision” to opt out for this blue moon celebration may have been aided by my recent oral surgery, sutures, antibiotics, vicodin and chipmunk cheeks, but who cares? It was a crap year and I’m kicking it out my own way. I even gave my Wii avatar her own golfchick-munk cheeks so she can play along.

As you can see from the picture, “I” am proudly sporting an Odyssey visor as they were kind enough to step up and be my first sponsor as I attempt to make the PGA Tour in the game. Etonic also sponsored me but I can’t seem to find any of their products to endorse in the system. Oh yes, fun times for me this new year’s eve.

Here’s wishing you and your loved ones all the best for the coming new year, new decade and a safe celebration to ring it in. Be well, be happy and may they all roll true.

Kristen

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There’s A Nap For That

October 16, 2009 / / 15 Comments

Failed to break 90 again (or 100 or 80 or par)? – There’s a nap for that.

Can’t get a job? – There’s a nap for that.

Can’t pay your mortgage? – There’s a nap for that.

Can’t maintain a relationship? – There’s a nap for that.

Home flooded by an accident or mother nature? – There’s a nap for that.

Can’t afford to play golf? – Yeah, there’s a nap for that, too.

Home subsequently flooded with raw sewage because of an aggressively freaky tree root? – There’s a nap for that.

Insurance companies getting you down? – There’s a nap for that.

Homeless? – There’s a nap for that.

Feeling depressed? – There’s a nap for that.

Accepting a charity round of golf from friends and still can’t break 90 (or 100 or 80 or par)? – There’s a nap for that.

IRS after your ass? – There’s a nap for that.

Realizing you’re a screw-up and letting everyone down including yourself? – Oh, there’s definitely a nap for that.

Still can’t maintain a relationship and now you know why? There’s a nap for that.

Feeling like a complete failure and not doing anything about it? – Oh boy is there a nap for that.

Knowing how “easy” it is to maintain a golf blog and not writing on it for months? – There’s a nap for that.

Drunken blogging and baring your pathetic soul? Hopefully … Priceless. (Hook me up, MasterCard.)

It’s a blog. I never claimed to be a professional (at this).

Times are tough – sweet dreams to all. And even sweeter awakenings.

I originally intended on ending this with a promise to be better about posting more frequently, but let’s be real – there may be a nap for that.

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The Commish that Saved the LPGA

July 12, 2009 / / 12 Comments

Twenty years ago, the LPGA looked a lot like it does today. Sponsors and tournaments were dropping off like flies. The Commissioner was being removed from duty. Players were unhappy. Then the organization made a winning move by replacing Bill Blue with Charles Mechem. He developed a good relationship with the players and the media, conciliated the sponsors, grew the tour with more events and ultimately got the LPGA back on track and thriving. We need a Charlie Mechem for 2009. Charlie’s still involved in the golf world to a fashion, though I doubt he could be lured back to his old post at this point.

I recently spent a day with Charlie – talking, eating, and of course, playing golf. He is a charming, amiable man with a gracious spirit. When my golf ball rolled off the fairway and wedged into a dicey lie in the plants, he casually kicked it out and humorously issued a “commissioner’s ruling.” I wouldn’t accept that with anyone else, but who am I to argue with the commish? I think you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who doesn’t like this man.

I told the story of how he became commissioner and saved the LPGA in this article (starts on page 12) for Jackson Hole Golfer Magazine, an annual publication issued in a beautiful hard cover book as well as a glossy magazine.

charlie mechem article

With Carolyn Bivens on her way out, the LPGA needs to find someone who can pull off what Charlie did, and I suspect it won’t be easy. (Hey Charlie, how about filling in while they conduct their search?)

In his article on what went wrong with Bivens, Alan Shipnuck offers up Judy Rankin as a suggested replacement with the logic that she’s “basically a female Mechem.” Sounds good to me.

Carolyn Bivens

Photo from Golf.com (David Cannon/Getty Images). Perhaps If Ms. Bivens appeased all the sponsors like she must have with this homage to Ronald McDonald, she’d be in less trouble today.

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Golf Grit

July 12, 2009 / / 4 Comments

I guess you gotta be a golfer to understand certain things. Tonight provided a good example: After playing golf all day, I was trying to make evening plans with my man. Obviously, a shower was imminent, but at some point I mentioned wanting to wash off all the grit and that I felt sandy all over.

He: What, were you rolling around in the sand traps all day?

Me: Yes, exactly that.

Sure, I was in a few bunkers today. But I was talking about all over golf grit. Know what I mean? Please?

Or – and with this, I officially launch a long overdue golfchick post category – IS IT JUST ME?

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