Sunday, November 30, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 672

HappyUP!!! - lunch with my friend
Why it happened - my friend was in town and called me
Why it makes me happy - breaking bread with a friend is great anytime for all the reasons you know....in this case, it was sushi as well...another HappyUP!!!

HappyUP!!! - extraordinary weather
Why it happened - God does those things
Why it makes me happy - I had sweat pants on when I teed off.....but I stripped down to shorts...on Nov 30... before you knew it. What part of that wouldn't be a HappyUP!!!?

HappyUP!!! - practice
Why it happened - I made myself
Why it makes me happy - I didn't play well today....but I went out to that driving range afterward and figured a few things out. Tomorrow will be another day (...without golf).....and future rounds will be better because I am putting the time in.

JollyJottings

Lunch with my friend
Practice session
Practice round
Extraordinary weather
Cleaning up the lawn
Putt on 1...15
Chip on 15....7

Saturday, November 29, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 671

HappyUP!!! - seeing my friend, RC, and getting some tips
Why it happened - he was at the club and I went out of my way to pick his brain
Why it makes me happy - RC is a good player. He knows how to hit a shot that I need to hit. He also likes to share his golfing knowledge. I immediately practiced what he was talking about. Give me a little time..I'll get there. RC also thanked me for playing in Scratch League and helping our club get to the playoffs. I won't be there for the finals as I must defer to the better players at our club. He was encouraging about me getting my game where it needs to be. He also made a subtle comment that I will remember regarding mental attitude.

HappyUP!!! - a lot of good shots
Why it happened - we had a money game going on, my partner wasn't playing well, and I needed to step up
Why it makes me happy - I held my own with one of the better players at the club. I could have played a bit better...I'll get there.

HappyUP!!! - walk in the dark
Why it happened - I got up early and took a 5 a.m. walk
Why it makes me happy - Thoreau liked to walk and think....that came to my mind this morning. There is something about walking in the quiet that promotes thinking. No, Roseville is no Walden Pond but, at 5 a.m. in the dark, everywhere looks the same.

JollyJottings

Our five man game
Drive and 2nd shot on 1
Drive on 2...4...5...8....9...11...18
Sand shot on 12....7
Hybid chip 10
Chip on 11
Two putt on 12
Birdie putt on 15
8 iron on 15
Hack out of the rough on 16...putt on 16
9 iron into 18
Tip from R.C......and a comment
Sunshine afternoon
Practice session after round
E-mail from E....S
Call from Boz

Friday, November 28, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 670

HappyUP!!! - breakfast with my buddy
Why it happened - he called me
Why it makes me happy - I was going to grab pancakes this morning. It was nice to eat with my friend and chat a bit.

HappyUP!!! - golf
Why it happened - we had a match
Why it makes me happy - I've been in a slump. You can look at the JollyJottings to see all the reason why today was a HappyUP!!! I hit a lot of good shots and seem to have corrected an iron issue that I have had. I got some tremendous height to my shots....which tells me that I am on to something.

HappyUP!!! - golf in shorts...after Thanksgiving
Why it happened - it was brisk...but nice
Why it makes me happy - it won't be long until it will be time to bundle up. There was a high fog but there was a crispness that made today a great day to be outside.

JollyJottings

Hitting 12 greens Hybrid on 7
Birdie putt on 15 5 iron on 9
Greenie on 16 3 wood on 12
4 iron on 17 5 iron on 13
Driver/6 iron on 2 Hybrid on 14
Hybrid chip on 3 Wedge on 15
Drive on 4
Drive/3 wood on 5
Breakfast with my buddy
My golf book
Playing golf in shorts...after Thanksgiving
Chicken sandwich

QuoteUP!!! 10 ......Guru Maharaj Ji





"If I always want an experience in life, first I must find a constant source of experience"


-Guru Maharaj Ji


What does one say - when he is in the presence of such great wisdom?

"Golf" - may be as good a thing to say as anything else!

Thursday, November 27, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 669...HappyThanksgiving



HappyUP!!! - hitting range balls
Why it happened - I played like crap...again
Why it makes me happy - it takes a bit of dedication to hit balls after you play a crappy round of golf.....which is why I rarely do it! I went out there today, however, and had a pretty productive session. We'll see as tomorrow is another day.

HappyUP!!! - being joined
Why it happened - we had an opening
Why it makes me happy - Boz and I were only a twosome tomorrow. It appears that the club champ and his buddy have signed up to play with us......again. We played them last Saturday and managed to squeak a few dollars out of them....Boz and I need the challenge to play well 2morrow as we have both played like crap all week.

HappyUP!!! - lovely weather
Why it happened - who knows
Why it makes me happy - we were the first group off today....and it was cool and foggy. It stayed overcast/foggy all day....but it was perfect. The sun did come out as we finished but, even without the sun, we had a lovely outing.



JollyJottings

Nice weather for 7 a.m.
Hitting some range balls
Gorgeous afternoon
Marinated chicken
Shot from hook lie....and fade lie
3 wood on 12
Hybrid on 13
Chip on 16
Convertible drive home
Thanksgiving TV

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 668

HappyUP!!! - teeing off early
Why it happened - my buddy and I were ready and the tee was open
Why it makes me happy - we weren't supposed to get to golf yesterday....rain was in the forecast. We
teed off about an hour before we were going to. The rain came down lightly on our last few holes. If we
hadn't gotten out early, we would have been out of luck!

HappyUP!!! - "stuffin it" when playing through
Why it happened - who knows
Why it makes me happy - one of the assistant pros and another guy that worked in the shop had a foursome that snuck in front of us by teeing it up on the 10th hole. When my buddy and I made the turn, these guys were impeding our progress. They immediately waved us to hit up and play through so all was cool. I ended up hitting a big drive and then, with all of them on the green, stuffing a 9 iron within 8 feet. Yes, this is a form of showing off but it does put a memory into those guys craniums that, "hey, that guy can play a little bit."

HappyUP!!! - visit from a friend
Why it happened - I got a "Happy Thanksgiving" call
Why it makes me happy - it's nice to have a quick lunch with a friend. I don't need to go out to eat.....just stop on by. A meal and some conversation in the middle of the day....nice.

HappyUP!!! - stock market
Why it happened - another good day
Why it makes me happy - I had pretty much pulled out between 2 months and 1 month ago. I decided yesterday to add to a couple of small positions I maintained......and both of the purchases gained by the end of the day. Yes....I fully realize they could tank on Friday but I'm good with these purchases for now. I hadn't bought any stocks in about 2 months due to my disillusionment with how things are run. It made me happy to know I still had a little faith in the system.

JollyJottings

Teeing off earlier than scheduled
Good weather...when it was supposed to be bad
The "Hot Tamale" Shot
Phone call from a friend
Visit from a buddy
Sleep

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 667

HappyUP!!! - Meeting done early
Why it happened - we finished what needed to be finished
Why it makes me happy - who doesn't like a meeting that ends early. In this case, it let me get to the golf course a little less rushed

HappyUP!!! - hitting it well off the first tee with no warmup
Why it happened - who knows....I relaxed?
Why it makes me happy - getting off to a good start is critical...getting it in play is not a given on our first hole. Without warming up, there was a good chance the ball would not end up where it was supposed to. This one went DEEEEP down the fairway.

HappyUP!!! - e-mail from an out of town friend
Why it happened - my friend was thinking about me
Why it makes me happy - the e-mail had a degree of consideration that was very nice. Thanksgiving has a different tone for me than it does most people. This person recognized that so it was a nice reach out.


JollyJottings

Toastmaster
Meeting getting done early
Slapping the first drive
Hitting the first three greens
Birdie putt on 2
Making birdie on 7....another chance for birdie
Great shot out of a terrible lie
Great putt on 13
Playing 9 holes with TB
Brekko invite

Monday, November 24, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 666

HappyUP!!! - yesterday's luck appreciated
Why it happened - I got to thinking
Why it makes me happy - yesterday, one of the HappyUP!!!s was avoiding injury when our golf cart rolled. As I thought about it today, Boz cranked it sideways right before we went over the 3-4 foot drop. If he hadn't done that, there is a good chance we would have hit nose down and gone "endo." I can just about gurantee you that, had that happened, injuries would have been substantial.

HappyUP!!! - call from my old buddy N
Why it happened - he was thinking about me
Why it makes me happy - I've known this guy for nearly 20 years. He was catching me up on some news about other old friends plus we like to shoot the breeze. We hadn't done it in awhile.

HappyUP!!! - changing weather report
Why it happened - it's the weather
Why it makes me happy - it was supposed to be 100% chance of rain tomorrow. Now, it doesn't look like it is going to rain at all...or a sprinkle at best. Boz is off work this week and really wanted to play golf. It looks like we will probably get tomorrow's round in!

JollyJottings

Stock Market
Appreciation for yesterday's luck
An empty green bin
Chipping
Finding an old book
A call from a long time friend
Finding out the Boz is OK
Changing weather report
Homemade Pastrami sandwich

Sunday, November 23, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 665

HappyUP!!! - cheating death!
Why it happened - my lucky star kicked in again
Why it makes me happy - I am typing this! I am typing this with no pain! My golf partner accidentally rolled our golf cart today. He went flying. I was stuck inside. Miraculously, no immediate damage appears to have been done to me. I may wake up a little jacked up tomorrow but this could have been a mess.....and I am very Happy and appreciative.

HappyUP!!! - golf post accident
Why it happened - I did some deep breathing
Why it makes me happy - my partner rolled the cart. We tipped it back upright. He was too shaken so he picked up his ball. We went to my ball...I was a bit shaky at the moment. As I stood over it getting ready to hit, I said, "relax, Nut. Look how fortunate you were. Does hitting this ball mean anything comparatively?" I kept that mentality for the remaining holes and hit the ball pretty well. Mind control and discipline....HappyUP!!!

HappyUP!!! - weeding
Why it happened - I got a little motivated
Why it makes me happy - I got a flower bed all cleaned up. I really like turning a mess into a clean area in the garden....it's just getting around to doing it. The feel and smell of good soil is a sensory HappyUP!!! for me.

JollyJottings

Surviving the accident
Weather
9 iron into 10
Putt on 14
Getting my wedge turned in
My drive on 18....which may have told me something
"The accident" which really may have told me something
The peace over the hybrid
Convertible drive home from golf course
Weeding
Tossing crap

Saturday, November 22, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 664

HappyUP!!! - partnering with the Boz
Why it happened - we had "a game"
Why it makes me happy - the Boz came through on the backside and made 3 birdies....that's a ton. I threw
one in myself and we made for a very good partnership today. I could have played a bit better but I held
my own

HappyUP!!! - golf shots
Why it happened - we played golf
Why it makes me happy - on three of the four par 3's, I had it going right at the stick....4 iron..6 iron...8 iron... all of the shots were hit very well. I also stuffed a bunker shot from 90 yards within 8 feet of the hole...one of the more challenging shots in golf. My 8 irons into 9 and 18 were pretty stellar as well. Whenever you hit a close to perfect shot, it's a HappyUP!!! I have said it before...you can easily go 18 without hitting perfect shots. I had my share of them today. Yes, there were some stinkers too...let's not dwell on those.


HappyUP!!! - talking with T tonight
Why it happened - T called me
Why it makes me happy - I gave T a golf lesson awhile back. It's really helped him out. Now, he wants to go out and learn about chipping. I think it makes me happy to help someone. It also makes me happy to be sought out for the knowledge.

HappyUP!!! - weather
Why it happened - God does it
Why it makes me happy - yes, we catch a hot summer once in awhile here in Sacramento. Yet, when you can still throw a pair of shorts on after a cool morning in mid-November, it is a HappyUP!!! for sure.
JollyJottings

Golf with new guys
Golf shots
Chat with T

Friday, November 21, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 663




HappyUP!!! - my first trip to the new Whole Foods
Why it happened - they finally opened
Why it makes me happy - I will remain a loyal TraderJoe's shopper....they have maintained a presence on the old side of town for a long time. TJ's doesn't have everything you need always....or the really nice stuff you sometimes need. I now have a full service grocery store only two miles and all right turns away from my house.....convenience is always a HappyUP!!! for me.

HappyUP!!! - Golf with the Boz
Why it happened - Boz called me
Why it makes me happy - it was a surprise. Boz usually can't play during the week. I had gone out to the course to hit a few balls. I was just wrapping up and heading toward my car when he said he was on his way to play 9 holes. We jumped out and got them in just before dark. He'll be off next week so this was a nice warmup to a week of butt kickings that he is going to receive from me.

HappyUP!!! - tomorrow's guests
Why it happened - we had openings
Why it makes me happy - a couple of guys who are good players at the club are going to join Boz and I. We have never played with either of them. We hear they are good guys.....Boz and I are good guys....sounds like 4 good guys spankin whitey around the course. HappyUP!!! on the way.



HappyUP!!! - spotting Ms Big Break
Why it happened - she was out playing our course today
Why it makes me happy - I am sure that the recent winner of Golf Channel's Big Break in Hawaii hear that Morgan Creek was my golf course.....and was hoping to get a glimpse of me today. I made a cameo on the range when she was finishing up her round. I'm glad that she got a chance to see me. As a matter of fact, she headed to the putting green after her round and I went to the putting green before playing 9 with the Boz. Putting is hot her strong suit so I am sure she was checking out my stroke and getting a few pointers.






JollyJottings


Breakfast
Are you a poet...philosopher
Golf with the Boz
Hitting some balls
Seeing the BigBreak winner
Sand Practice
Reading
Stock Market

Thursday, November 20, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 662





HappyUP!!! - Kiwanis
Why it happened - I was invited to speak at their meeting
Why it makes me happy - I love to get out amongst the community and share the HappyUP!!! message whenever possible. It is great to be around people that recognize their need for fellowship and who help the community in the process. I also got a free lunch...who doesn't love a free lunch?

HappyUP!!! - Kinkos
Why it happened - I had materials to get ready for Kiwanis
Why it makes me happy - I did some duplex copying...quite a bit of duplex copying. The possibility for problems to happen was tremendous. Nope....the one issue that I had was McGyvered around easily without me asking staff for help. I love Kinkos!

HappyUP!!! - my painter showed up
Why it happened - he is dependable
Why it makes me happy - I'll be able to get my kitchen painted in a hurry. He is willing to slide me in before some other jobs.....I just have to make a decision on paint. At least I have the option to get it done...all because he showed up on time.


JollyJottings

Kinkos trip
Raleys
Painter showing up
Finishing my speech
Kiwanis meeting
Kiwanis presentation
Being out of the market
Glorious weather
A free lunch
Amazon order

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 661



HappyUP!!! - golf
Why it happened - I play every day
Why it makes me happy - today, it was a putting contest/lesson with one of the guys in the shop. I got some tips that will help my putting. I also was allowed to play through two groups with very little delay. I played 18 holes in two hours....THAT is a HappyUP!!! for sure.

<----these two know nothing about golf...looks like they are in the midst of a HappyUP!!!! HappyUP!!! - breakfast with e
Why it happened - we scheduled it
Why it makes me happy - I got caught up on some things that have been going on in the mortgage industry....my former industry....as well as with the company that the two of us used to work for. I try not to pay too much attention but I do like to know what is going on. I also like spending time with this guy.

HappyUP!!! - phone calls from friends
Why it happened - I have friends of all different levels of intimacy
Why it makes me happy - both of these calls came from people discussing their employment and what I thought. For the most part, people need to talk when these things happen. They look for someone that has been there.....maybe they want a little advice....but, more often than not, they just need an ear that knows what is going on. It is a sacred privilege to be that person.

JollyJottings

Weather
Coffee with T


Tuesday, November 18, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 660






HappyUP!!! - scoring a picture
Why it happened - friends took this one
Why it makes me happy - that is my brother on the left. He NEVER looks like that.....wait...is that my brother or is that Mike Meyers? That is why it is a HappyUP!!! ...it's a good picture but a ridiculous one.








HappyUP!!! - hole number 8
Why it happened - I snuck in 18 this afternoon
Why it makes me happy - look how close I hit it...and this was after I hit the drive straight as straight gets. Check out the barber pole.....this is what my course uses to tell you where to hit your drive. I had to remove the post just to hit my shot.

















HappyUP!!! - playing with a new guy
Why it happened - he showed up at the course the same time that I did
Why it makes me happy - we had an enjoyable 9 holes...I am sure we will end up playing again. He was an interesting young man....and another new contact at my club.

HappyUP!!! - the Maseratti
Why it happened - the owner wanted to play golf?
Why it makes me happy - while not envious, I do enjoy seeing nice things. We don't see many Maseratti's up our way. I am not sure what this model was...it wasn't very sporty but I can gurantee you....it was niiiiiiiizzzzze.

HappyUP!!!! - Toastmasters
Why it happened - it is Tuesday
Why it makes me happy - I gave a solid speech. We had a returning guest who will join. We had a new guest that is going to join. We are getting on it.

Monday, November 17, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 659




It's a big day -
here at Nutsterville.....which means you are going to be getting a bigger dose than just the three HappyUP!!!'s today.

HappyUP!!! - 9 holes of golf
Why it happened - my bro called me
Why it makes me happy - I wasn't going to golf today because my course is closed. When my brother called about teeing it up at his course, I was thrilled to get out.....and I shot even par....with a couple of three putts. Good golf is a HappyUP!!!

HappyUP!!! - brekko
Why it happened - I had planned to go out for brekko
Why it makes me happy - I ran into a couple of people I really like, B&S. I had not seen either of them in a looooong time. We talked for about 10 minutes so it was great. I also got my favorite waitress waiting on me so we had fun banter as usual.

HappyUP!!! - blood donating
Why it happened - I got back into it
Why it makes me happy - my blood may help someone....I like that idea. Also, I had a good time with my blood person.....I was in rare form with the humor. I also slipped her a HappyUP!!! button. Afterward, I got some juice....love the pineapple juice!

HappyUP!!! - rototilling
Why it happened - I need to put in some winter vegetables
Why it makes me happy - the ground had dried out from the recent rains but was still moist enough that there was no dust being raised. I LOVE the smell of freshly turned dirt. My soil is really good for tilling....it's a joy to get down and dirty in the garden. Many, if not all, of the senses get involved.

HappyUP!!! - dinner
Why it happened - I was invited at the last minute
Why it makes me happy - Mr/Mrs Max had me stay after golf. I got some nice company and an excellent casserole....sweet!

JollyJotting

B&S at brekko
J at Brekko
Blood donation
Rototilling
Bro calling me
9 holes of golf
Dinner invite
E-mail exchanges with friends

Sunday, November 16, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 658

HappyUP!!! - Kings game
Why it happened - my buddy, S, invited me
Why it makes me happy - it's always great to be invited....even though, in this case, the Kings got beat at the very end of the game. It's always good to spend time with S. This was the first Kings game that I went to this year so that is always a special difference......it's a new season.

HappyUP!!! - Golf
Why it happened - we had a time
Why it makes me happy - Boz and I teed it up as expected.....but W joined us. I always like teeing up with W so it was a pleasant surprise. We got to tee off a little early which got us done early. I played another very loose round.....I don't know what has happened to my game....but I played the last hole well which included striping a drive about 265 down the middle.

HappyUP!!! - e-mailing with my friend
Why it happened - we stay in touch
Why it makes me happy - we kind of have a running gag going on so it makes for a fun dialogue that is none too serious.

JollyJottings

Teeing off early
Playing with W
Drive on 18
Seeing my friend at the Kings game
Going to the Kings game
Call from T
E-mailing with another friend

Saturday, November 15, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 657

HappyUP!!! - beautiful golfing weather
Why it happened - it's November in Norcal
Why it makes me happy - I love the chill of the morning that gives way to a touch of warmth. I started out with my rain pants and windshirt on for warmth. Pretty soon, the rain pants were peeled...and then the windshirt. It was just a glorious day to be outside. I think I golf just as much to be outside as to enjoy the game.

HappyUP!!! - golf shots
Why it happened - I was playing golf
Why it makes me happy - I couldn't make a putt today to save my life.....but I had some pretty nice shots going on. You always want to hit a good shot but there are places on the course that really make you feel good. I nailed a drive on 4 today....that is one of those places you want that to happen. I hit a hybrid from 180 yds within 10 ft. I hit my final shot on 18 within a three feet of the pin. It just feels sooooooooooo good to put the shots together.

HappyUP!!! - call from T
Why it happened - T had played some golf
Why it makes me happy - T must have had a good day on the course. I did a little work with him a couple of weeks ago. He left me a message saying that things are working....especially the grip change that he had been reticent to take on. I like helping people and making them feel better.

JollyJottings

9 iron into 18
5 iron on 3
Drive on 4
Hybrid on 6
Drive on 10
5 iron on 11
Twelve
Drive on 14
7 iron on 16
E-mail with L
Weather
Beatin the Boz
Yakking with S

Friday, November 14, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 656



HappyUP!!! - Darren LaCroix
Why it happened - I was on the undercard of an engagement where he was the featured speaker
Why it makes me happy - OK...I had to do StandUp Comedy....I can be a funny guy but Stand Up is an entirely different deal. First...there were over 100 people in the audience....that's only about 98 more than are usually in front of me when I cut up. Second... StandUP is not spontaneous. It can be but it's not for the most part. It is a learned and practiced skill. Anyway, at the break before he went on, Darren sought me out and gave me a heartfelt "attaboy" along with a tip. He didn't have to do that....but it meant alot. THIS is what we all need to do.

HappyUP!!! - getting the Stand Up deal done
Why it happened - I was volunteered
Why it makes me happy - I was funny enough....can't say I was hysterical....I had a couple of clangers, "is that the ceiling fan I hear?....it can't be...I just delivered my punch line."

HappyUP!!! - my fellow entertainers
Why it happened - see above
Why it makes me happy - we were all huddled together backstage....a bunch of amateurs thrown into the realm NOT of speakers, which we are used to at Toastmasters, but entertainers. All of us were out of our comfort zone...but we were there together. Nobody was putting on airs or trying to outdo the other person. It was community.

HappyUP!!! - pitching in with the hybrid
Why it happened - I missed a green
Why it makes me happy - I should not be making the shots that I do with this club. Today, on the 13th hole, I was 10 ft short of the green on the right side. The hole was cut 35 feet ON the green on the left side...WITH a huge ridge in the way. This means the ball had to travel over 50 feet because there was a good 6 feet of break in this shot.........and I watched the entire time going, "Wow...that's pretty good....I wonder...hmmm....could that go in....nah...well....wait.......YOWSER!" I am gaining quite the reputation as the hybrid guy.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

HappyUP!!!! Day 655

HappyUP!!! - doctor visit
Why it happened - it's part of my annual physical
Why it makes me happy - got a clean bill of health. We are now working on one issue that may or may not be minor. The HappyUP!!! is that it is uncovered and we're working on it.

HappyUP!!! - rehearsal
Why it happened - I have to be part of an entertainment show tonight
Why it makes me happy - I met some new people....learned what the gig tonight is all about....and didn't have to do my entire schtick in rehearsal (I really didn't want to do that).

HappyUP!!! - visit from my buddy
Why it happened - we had been talking about it
Why it makes me happy - this is one of my favorite people. It was great to get the visit paid. We discussed some things that had been troubling....and came to resolution.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 654

HappyUP!!! - golf environment
Why it happened - I decided to tee it up on a whim
Why it makes me happy - I was greeted with playful banter from the cart guy....hit a couple of balls really quickly....and then played 18 holes in gorgeous weather by myself with NO ONE in front of me.

HappyUP!!! - driving range after the round
Why it happened - I didn't hit it very well today
Why it makes me happy - I think I figured some things out. One of the guys from the pro shop was hitting balls next to me....he saw the quality in the swing. It's getting there again....and needs to....now!

HappyUP!!! - the golf shots
Why it happened - I played golf
Why it makes me happy - when you hit the shots "just right," the feeling is incredible. Today, I had a bunch of them. The problem is the disparity between the good shots and the bad shots has increased. In the meantime, I played 4 perfectly. Same thing on 8, 9, and 10. I hit a fabulous little wedge into 15. The 7 iron on 16 was perfectly struck. You can play a lot of rounds where you don't have any "purity." I just need to keep plugging.

HappyUP!!! - trading texts with a buddy
Why it happened - I was thinking
Why it makes me happy - hadn't seen my friend for awhile. Due to the text, we'll get together for lunch in the near future. While golf can provide a lot of HappyUP!!!s, the best HappyUP!!!'s is just getting together with people.


JollyJottings

Up early
Meeting with T
2 hours to play golf
Great iron on 16
Solid wedge on 15
Great play on hole 4
Drive and 8 iron on 8
Super 9 iron into 10
Driving range afterward
Comments by J on the range
Post office automation
Dry Cleaner

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 653

HappyUP!!! - 36 holes with the Boz
Why it happened - it was Veteran's Day and Boz had it off
Why it makes me happy - I had an early meeting. I pulled into the parking lot at 8:20....our tee time. Boz has the cart ready and picks me up at my car. We went right to the first tee. We finish 18 holes just in time to order a sandwich...and take it with us to our 12:10 tee time with our buddy, R. We finished up around 4:00....that is a lot of golf without much of a break in the action....and a great day.

HappyUP!!! - Toastmasters
Why it happened - it is Tuesday
Why it makes me happy - we keep making more progress toward building the club. This morning, we had a solid executive meeting. We have more potential guests for next week...on top of this past week's guests. We are on the upswing and this morning's meeting supported that.

HappyUP!!! - golf shots
Why it happened - I golfed a lot today
Why it makes me happy - I didn't play that well today.....with the new clubs and all. This COULD get someone down. I am in rebuild mode on the links. I made a couple of great swings on the par 3 16th. I hit a couple of tremendous "running wedges" on the par 5 15th...I have named that shot the "Hot Tamale." I hit an 8 iron on 5 that was just stellar and got me a birdie.

JollyJottings

Toastmasters
36 holes with the Boz
A couple of good birdies
The "Hot Tamale" 9 iron shot
Nice visit and bite

Monday, November 10, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 652....New Weaponry


HappyUP!!! - a new Driver
Why it happened - I got off my fanny
Why it makes me happy - I went down and got myself checked out and tested on the TrackMan System. In a side by side, this little setup was giving me 17 yards more carry on the drive than the old driver. THAT is almost two clubs less when I am hitting into a green...that is a HappyUP!!!
(..and I love the VOODOO Shaft.....the name fits my game).

HappyUP!!! - New 3 wood
Why it happened - it was new club day (see above)
Why it makes me happy - the clubfitter immediately saw my Titleist 3 wood and said, "that's a problem.....those clubs were good with the tour players but most amateurs could not hit them." I KNEW it wasn't all my

fault!

I'll be taking the new dynamic duo "to the streets" tomorrow.

HappyUP!!! - breakfast with S
Why it happened - we like to get together
Why it makes me happy - S is going through some changes and needs to make sure that I am still there. Of course I am. We traded great information as well. We got to jibber jabber with my fave waitress...a good morning.





Sunday, November 09, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 651


HappyUP!!! - chat with my friend
Why it happened - I returned my friend's message with a call
Why it makes me happy - sometimes people need to talk so this was a good Sunday evening thing to do. As usual with friends, we left it with we'll need to get together soon....and we probably will.

HappyUP!!! - par 3's
Why it happened - I played golf today
Why it makes me happy - out of the four par three's I played today, I actually had a shot at hole in one's 3 times AFTER I made contact with the shot. What does that mean? It means that, in the air, the ball was heading exactly where it was supposed to...it was only a question of whether the distance was right. Each time, as those balls took off in the air, it was a HappyUP!!!

HappyUP!!! - the Driver
Why it happened - I came across a mental picture
Why it makes me happy - it seems like the change in weather has been causing me to hit the ball a little shorter. This is common as we head into fall and heavy air. The problem is that my ball seems to be more effected than the guys I play with. Today, as I was leaving the range, I had a mental picture going through my mind......and it was pretty funny! I used it throughout the round....I even shared it with my golfing partners... who probably thought I was a nutcase......but, then again, they know me so that's no new news. The driver was going LONG and STRAIGHT today...a HappyUP!!! every time the blow was delivered.

JollyJottings

Par threes....3 of them
Driver
Irons
Weather
Company
Getting up early


Saturday, November 08, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 650...18 at my course...18 at another course

Geez - with a schedule like that, the golf course is pretty much the only place to get a HappyUP!!! today. It's the only place I was at.

HappyUP!!! - Scratch League
Why it happened - I guess my club was desperate
Why it makes me happy - they played at the course that I grew up on today....and my club needed me to play. I won my match...shot a respectable score....and met a couple of nice guys that provided a very enjoyable afternoon of golf.

HappyUP!!! - teeing it up with the Boz
Why it happened - he showed up on time
Why it makes me happy - Boz has been MIA out on the golf course for the last couple of weeks. It was good to have him in the group so he could receive another butt kicking.

HappyUP!!! - birdie on 15
Why it happened - I strategized
Why it makes me happy - I didn't try to knock it on this par 5 in 2. I laid it back...considerably back...and I got to the exact distance that I like for hitting a 60 degree wedge....and then I hit the 60 degree wedge close and made the birdie. WOW! It was like something out of TV. I have now birdied this hole twice in a row.....after more than a month of not birdieing it. We'll see what I put together tomorrow.

JollyJottings

Teeing up with the Boz
Waking early
Two birdies this morning
Second birdie in a row on 15
Winning my match for my team
Playing a steady round on a foreign course
The guys I played with in the match

Friday, November 07, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 649

HappyUP!!! - wedge
Why it happened - I had a choice
Why it makes me happy - I had to carry a long green to get to a back pin. My golfing partner suggested I hit it all the way back, spin the ball, and end up right by the hole. I said, "I like the low running shot just right that trickles down the hill." I then hit the exact shot I called (lucky...lucky...lucky..) and the ball nearly fell in the cup for an eagle. EZ Birdie

HappyUP!!! - Walking this morning
Why it happened - I needed to take something to a friend
Why it makes me happy - I kept walking and did a couple more errands. My back has really been an issue but walking doesn't seem to aggravate it.....which probably means it does it some good. It was also a very pretty morning to be stomping around.

HappyUP!!! - seeing RC
Why it happened - he was hitting some putts
Why it makes me happy - I'm playing Scratch League again tomorrow....the club is obviously desperate. RC runs the league and is kind of our captain. We spent some time talking golf and tomorrow's match. I'm going back to my old home course so I am looking to have a big day.

JollyJottings

Couple
wedge shot on 15
7 iron on 16
Walking this morning
Breakfast

Thursday, November 06, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 648

HappyUP!!! - golf and weather
Why it happened - it's Nov in Northern California
Why it makes me happy - I was wearing shorts as I walked the course today. I chose to wear a sweatshirt but it really wasn't necessary. The golf was poor.....but the weather was just spectacular today.

HappyUP!!! - another day toward goal
Why it happened - I started something yesterday
Why it makes me happy - I can't share the details here just yet....I'm rolling toward something that is important to take care of. It also takes a lot of focus. I made some head way today

HappyUP!!! - time with nephew
Why it happened - he came to give me a check
Why it makes me happy - I love my nephew....I really do....I'm glad he stopped by.



JollyJottings

Rising early
Another Day toward goal
Golf and weather

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 647....

HappyUP!!! - speaking opportunity
Why it happened - our Educational VP stumbled across it
Why it makes me happy - I will get to go out and promote the club while I discuss the HappyUP!!! concept. How sweet is that?

HappyUP!!! -meeting with my friend, T
Why it happened - it happens every Wednesday
Why it makes me happy - We had a great cup of coffee and visit today post election. I heard about a couple that he and I both know....they just had multiple babies.

HappyUP!!! - a new president
Why it happened - we do it every 4 years
Why it makes me happy - B.O. was not my choice...I was clear about that. But, before I nodded off last night, I decided that everything would be fine....nobody wants to hear me grouse....most of all me. The best thing that I can do is exactly what I did today...tried to console my McCain supporting circle. I will guarantee you that there are people who have decided to be ticked about this choice for president....until he isn't the president anymore. That is the OPPOSITE of a HappyUP!!!...and the reason for having HappyUP!!!s

JollyJottings

A New President
My polling place
Talking with a friend
Text exchange with another friend
A Speaking Opportunity
A Dry Run for Standup
Golf

A Great New Day in America....HappyUP!!!




Faithful readers know - that I was not in favor of Barack Obama in this election.

But I don't rule this country - and the majority of people that I share this sandbox with digs the guy's groove. This must be respected.

"Democrats having no checks and balances" - "control given all to the likes of Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reed" are both very scary prospects.

....and I know people that will hold that view - until a Republican is back in the White House or control of the House or Senate is regained by the elephants.

What is the cost personally to holding that view? - Republicans have been in for some time and the times aren't as rosy right now as they could be.

I submit that holding that thought, - even subconsciously, is a luxury that you can't afford.

If you were a McCain/Palin supporter - you need and are allowed time to mourn. I suggest you make it a short span. I did mine until I turned off the TV last night. I woke up this morning laughing in bed...and hit the floor running.

It is time to get together as Americans - and look to the positive prospects of the people's decision last night. It is hard to see opportunity and the sunlight when your eyes are focused down at the mud.

On this day more than any other - HappyUP!!! Go out and find what it is that makes you happy today.

When Smiley Becomes The Pirate
















Awhile back - I wrote the "How Do You Mark Your Titleists?" post which showed you how I mark my golf balls out on the links.

With the familiar smile - on both sides, it makes it very easy for me to identify my ball versus anyone else's on the course. It also should be a deterrent to other people from other people on the golf course accidentally playing my egg

On another side - I always have the happiest balls on the golf course....something I am reminded of every time I get over my orb.

So, after I steered Smiley into a tree one day - you can imagine the laughter I got when I came upon this alteration after finding him.....arrgh, matey.

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 646

HappyUP!!! - meeting some new guys
Why it happened - things were stacked up on the 18th tee
Why it makes me happy - these guys are good players. They play at the club frequently. Sometimes there are three of them...perhaps I can be a fourth on some days as I expand my golfing circle out at the club. One of the guys said, "nice pass," when I made my swing off the tee. I never see my golf swing. When a good player watches your swing and makes that specific comment, things must be looking pretty good.

HappyUP!!! - birdie as I played through
Why it happened - some gents were nice enough to let me play through
Why it makes me happy - whenever you are allowed to play through in golf, you always want to do well. It isn't a "do or die" thing...it's just something you want to do. It's hard to do better than a birdie.

HappyUP!!! - Toastmasters
Why it happened - it was an "on" Tuesday
Why it makes me happy - we had a couple of great speeches. More importantly, we had two guests that really look like they are going to join. New people is what we are all about. If we can bat 2 for 2, that is a home run day!

JollyJottings

Toastmasters
Guests
Playing 18 with some new guys
Birdie when I played through
A tax break
Talking with the pro and assistant

Monday, November 03, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 645......Eve of the Election

HappyUP!!! - a chance
Why it happened - America is waking up
Why it makes me happy - while I do fear that we will be living under the Pelossi rule for the next four years, I am buoyed by the tightening of the polls today. Tomorrow's outcome in the Presidential election is not a given. While I think the McCain campaign has run out of time, people are at least becoming aware of just how risky the alternative pick would be.

HappyUP!!! - lunch
Why it happened - my friend JP gave me a call
Why it makes me happy - I'm not sure when the last time was that I saw J. It was fantastic getting together and catching up on what life has brought each other way as of late. J is heading into some challenging but exciting times......which brings me a HappyUP!!!

HappyUP!!! - heating and air guy
Why it happened - I scheduled the appointment
Why it makes me happy - he showed up.......he called and was running way ahead of schedule....he found something in my system which was NOT something I would have seen so the call was worth it...and, while he was here, I had him install a new thermostat that I could actually figure out and program myself! I have heat ...just in time for the cooler temps coming around the bend. That is a whole bunch of reasons to be happy.

HappyUP!!! - call from my friend
Why it happened - D called from a coffeehouse
Why it makes me happy - I got to find out some cool things that D is working on...which includes taking a reading and writing course that D will benefit from. D and I agreed to get together soon....getting together.... always a HappyUP!!!

Sunday, November 02, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 644...

HappyUP!!! - dinner with the family
Why it happened - it was my nephew's birthday
Why it makes me happy - I get a meal prepared for me....and my sis-in-law makes a mean lasagna. It was also great visiting with my bro, nephews, niece and friends. Quality family time without it being a big party.

HappyUP!!! - excellent golfing weather
Why it happened - who knows
Why it makes me happy - it was supposed to rain today......not a drop fell. The course was a little wet but it was great to be out in some great weather. We had a guy join us that doesn't play with us that often...but we are always glad when he does.

HappyUP!!! - golf shots
Why it happened - we had the weather to play golf
Why it makes me happy - I was playing with some good golfers today.....and, even if you don't score as well as you can, it's always great to hit some outstanding shots. I had several today including a phenomenal up and down from next to a tree on the 17th hole...I'm kind of known for pulling off a little magic around the greens. THIS particular gem was black magic. It left my golfing partners in a bit of disbelief...."is he the luckiest guy we know or is he actually pretty good at this stuff," is what they were thinking. Hell...I was thinking the same thing!

JollyJottings

Excellent weather
Great 4 iron
Phenomenal up and down on 17
Exchanges with M

Saturday, November 01, 2008

HappyUP!!! Day 643


HappyUP!!! -golf...then no golf...then golf...then no golf...then golf
Why it happened - I make things happen
Why it makes me happy - I woke up this morning with an 8 a.m. Tee time. That's good....no, that's bad because it was raining. That's bad....no, that's good because I got invited to play in the Scratch League at noon when my golf pro called because a guy didn't show up. That's good...no, that's bad because the pro called me back 5 minutes later and the guy showed up after all. That's bad...no, that's good because it started pouring and I didn't want to play in the rain. That's good....no, that's bad because now the golf bug was implanted in me. The rain seemed to clear around 2:30 so I went out to my club to golf. That's good...no, that's bad because the rain picked up as I was in the middle of the first hole. That's bad.....no, that's good because I was comitted now. I played 9 holes in the rain, shot a pretty good score, made another birdie with my hybrid, knocked it stiff on another hole, discovered something in my swing.......it was a productive 9 holes!....and fun to be a kid out swinging in the rain (is that being a kid or being Gene Kelly?).


HappyUP!!! - chicken
Why it happened - it rained so I used my electric grill
Why it makes me happy - I forgot that my electric griddle doubles as a grill. You just flip it over. This was the first time I had used it in that fashion. While I would have preferred to BBQ, the chicken turned out delicious. You have the recipe. It's a HappyUP!!! whenever I take the time to cook a meal.

HappyUP!!! -breakfast with the gang
Why it happened - golf cancelled
Why it makes me happy - I was the lone independent amidst the sea of my Democrat adopted family. What a heated table that could become....but it was all in good fun. Though I am an Independent, I am against the extreme left (page down for any of the Barry the Squirrel Hussein Pelossi posts).

HappyUP!!! - catching Sara Palin on the tube
Why it happened - golf cancelled
Why it makes me happy - she was WOWing them in Florida. This lady could do the job just as well as the Squirrel and better than his sidekick....no doubt about it. Of course, that isn't saying a whole heck of a lot. It might actually demean her talents.

JollyJottings

Breakfast
Golf...then no golf...then golf...then no golf...then golf
Chicken
Sara Palin
Hope
Sample Ballot
Warm and Dry
Candles
Rain