My dad and his friend Rusty flew into Phoenix yesterday. They’ll spend the rest of the week here, visiting and playing a lot of golf. Today was the first time I’ve ever played 36 holes in the same day. I am tired.

This morning we played at Gold Canyon, just thirty minutes west of my house. The course was absolutely stunning. For four hours, all I could do was look around and adore the canyons and mountains. We played early, so the rising sun cast dark shadows along the rugged faces of the canyon walls. I felt like I was playing in a post card.

Then it was back to Mesa to lay another eighteen. It’s such a great course, and I happen to live off the fourteenth hole. I am stupid not to play there more.

Tonight Dad and Rusty joined me for dinner with the priests from my church. We had a really good time, just laughing and being friends. I love my dad so much.

We just got back from Mass, and Dad and Rusty are already asleep. I’m cleaning the house for tomorrow night’s party. It’s so refreshing to know that I can take a vacation in my own city.