An Investment in Happiness

While the finncial markets churn my stomach, and there is no safe haven to protect our financial assets, I've decided the best place to focus my energy is the football field. So I've taken to coaching my sons flag football team. What a great experience.

While my 401k and mutual funds have no upside, the investments of time and energy into these kids pays huge dividends...daily. Whether I'm at home burping the baby, or in a meeting figuring out how to save the world...the one thing I can depend on is thinking about the things these kids do...and knowing I can smile about it.

So I've refocused my retirement planning efforts. I've decided to make sure my son becomes the #1 Draft pick of 2024. Compared to giving more money to Fidelity...planning on a pipe dream like my son being drafted into the NFL is ALMOST A SURE THING!!! So check out this video....notice the sweet cut back to the center of the field...and how he never stops his legs from moving...he almost broke this one...maybe next week.

Maybe IMG wants to get in on this prospect a bit early...now that's an investment worth making!!

Thinking about Augusta...

Now that the golf season has come to a wimpering close, and football season is in full swing...I've already started to think about the first week in April. While football may in fact be the most popular sport around these days...The Masters is without a doubt the most PURE "Sporting Event" there is.

I've been lucky enough to attend several Masters (and even luckier to play the course!!)and it's simply the best and least cluttered experience there is. While getting to a US Open can require shuttle buses from miles away, at The Masters you can park your car within a reasonable distance and walk right in.

The grounds are not cluttered with big ugly tents (which Philly Mic should be happy about...no tents to bounce a ball off of)...and you can get a beverage and snack for less than five bucks. The crowds are respectful to all...and the beauty is something that cannot be appreciated unless you see it in person. Sorry CBS...even in HD....TV does not do it justice.

As for the people...a lot can be said for southern hospitality. As long as you don't run...there's always a little (or big) green jacket to point you in the right direction. I've had the pleasure to work with the folks that put on the tournament...and without question, they are some of the nicest and fairest people in sport. The officials at just about all other leagues and organizations could learn a lot from the folks at Augusta.

And finally, while they build new "cathedrals" of sport around the country, I'm pretty sure they are not planting any beautiful 100+ year old Oak trees next to these stadiums to echo voices from the past. If you have a chance to spend a 1/2 under the Oak at Augusta...savor the opportunity.

So as the leaves turn, and the NFL fills it's pockets with gobs of money, and "spins" the disgraceful antics of it's player...just remember...some sports just get it right. The Masters may be the last shining example of what sports can and should be. Introduce your children to The Masters..get them playing golf...and give them a gift they will have for a lifetime.