1 – The ears must be warm

True, warm summer and autumn days leave a favorable impression, but there is something comforting about that first chilly day when you adorn the winter beanie.

2 – Reality is cold

On the other hand, the first frost delay of the season is utterly depressing.

3 – Swing easy

If they were filming The Graduate in 2004, the hushed word wouldn’t be “plastics.” It would be “hybrids.”

4 – Like, really, who cares where you are?

Just curious, but has anyone else hit the saturation point of seeing tweets from those fortunate and well-connected souls who feel obliged to tell you at which world-class course they are teeing it up?

5 – Clean is good

Yes, yes, a hundred times yes to attendants who offer to clean your clubs when the round is over. And if you’re at a club that has an air compressor to knock the dirt, mud, and grass clippings off your shoes, then let the joy be with you.

6 – Remember, respect parkland

Go easy on the trees this winter, you golf committee members. They don't have representation.

7 – Your stomach demands it

If your golf club isn’t serving chili, please tell them to check the calendar. It’s time.

8 – Not an Olympic sport, but nonetheless

There is something enchanting about players in the right rough, left rough, and middle of the fairway all hitting at about the same time into a long par 4 or a par 5 layup. Rhythmic golf, I suggest.

9 – Conscience vs. pride

What produces more angst – giving yourself a putt that was borderline generous or watching your 2-footer lip-out?